Preview: Football vs. SM Northwest

After a season-changing first lost for the Lancers against Lawrence Free State last Friday, Oct. 11, they are looking for a win this week against the SM Northwest Cougars.

Originally ranked eighth out of the 12 Sunflower League teams, the 1-5 Cougars currently lie 11 out of the 12 teams.

Last week, the Cougars came close to a win but gave up their 12-point lead to Olathe South. When they gave up the lead, they allowed the Falcons to gain a 20-point lead.

The Cougars certainly are not a weak team overall, despite their record. Their running back and defensive back, senior Devin Shockley, is ranked second in the state and in the Sunflower League with 45 solo tackles.

Adding to the Cougar’s line is Jake Horner. Horner plays both offense and defense as quarterback and cornerback. He also punts and kicks for the team occasionally. Horner is one of the Cougars’ top offensive players.

SM Northwest offense uses an “I” formation and uses variations of plays that utilize this formation. This offensive structure utilizes the speed of Horner and the other offensive linemen.

The Lancers still have a chance to tie for the Sunflower League title, regardless of their loss against Lawrence Free State last week. The loss caused the Lancers and Lawrence Free State Firebirds to have the same record; a tie that could give both teams the shared Sunflower League title- that is if both teams can perform for the next three weeks.

The game will start at 7 p.m. at the SM South Stadium. The theme for the game will be Hunting; Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors will wear animal costumes, and seniors will wear hunting or safari outfits.

Can’t make it to the game? Tune into smeharbinger.net to watch the live broadcast or follow @HarbieSports on Twitter for live-tweeting.