The Lancers will take on the SM West Vikings tonight at 7 p.m in what is expected to be a close, emotional game. East students and fans will wear black and gold to celebrate deceased SM West senior wide receiver Andre Maloney. The 6-1 Lancers hope to extend their winning season with a critical victory over the reigning state champions.
SM West is returning many of their letterwinners from last year’s state championship winning squad. The defense is led by senior and BYU verbal commit Austin Chambers, who excels at blitzing and putting pressure on the quarterback. However, the team has struggled with defending the running game throughout the season.
Their 4-3 record reflects these difficulties and the trial of overcoming the loss of Maloney. Without their star wide receiver, the Vikers still rely on their ability to throw and their wide receivers’ disciplined routes. However, in their most recent victory over SM North, West also showed an ability to run with 333 rushing yards in the game.
Meanwhile, the Lancers will be looking to senior running back Mitchell Tyler and senior quarterback Christian Blessen to lead on the offensive attack. Tyler showed his versability last week by running the ball for multiple touchdowns, acting as kicker and leading pass coverage on defense.
Blessen has struggled with fumbles throughout the year, often forcing the team into close endings to games that were expected to be blow outs. Despite these struggles, Blessen continues to be a leader in the Sunflower League in passing and rushing. His close-game composure and increasing accuracy is expected to be necessary in tonight’s game.
On the defensive side, senior Dominique Atkinson and junior Kyle Ball will be necessary to pressure the pocket throughout the game. Tonight’s game will also require strong pass coverage from the Lancers, something the squad has struggled with throughout the season. Despite the disparity in season records, tonight’s game is expected to be close and high scoring.
Kickoff will begin at 7 p.m. and the student section theme is black and gold in support of Maloney. Can’t make it to the game? Catch the broadcast here.
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