Bellwood-Antis will face off against River Valley in the first round of the playoffs this Friday. This is the Blue Devils’ third away game in a row as they settle in and try to make a run in the playoffs.
The Bellwood-Antis offense is hotter than ever going into this week’s matchup. Many players have stepped up to fill key roles that have been lost to injuries throughout the season. Senior Cayden Pellegrine and Junior Colin Gibbons have both become the team’s leading running backs, after the Blue Devils lost three players at this position.
Senior Quarterback Holden Schreier is also coming off the game of his life, after breaking the single game passing record for Bellwood-Antis by just under 100 yards. He was named “Athlete of the Week” by the B-A Blueprint for this impressive feat.
“Breaking the record was important to me because it helps me continue to build confidence as we approach the most important part of the season”, said Schreier.
River Valley is expected to have the opposite approach going into Friday’s game. This is one of the most run-heavy teams you’ll see in this conference. The team has two very talented running backs that have put up big numbers this year. Sam Yanits averages 124.4 rushing yards per game. Gavin Burkhart is also looking to prove what he can do, as he averages 103.3.
“This game comes down to us playing our best football”, said Bellwood head coach Nick Lovrich. “We need to be fundamentally sound, and shut down their run game.”
As well as their run game, the Panthers also have a very efficient defense. The line has put up 18 sacks on the year, meaning they average almost 2 per game. The defense as a whole has also caused 11 fumbles this season.
The first round of playoffs is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling games of the year. Both teams have shown where they excel and what they are capable of. Come out to River Valley High School at 7:00 on Friday to support!
