(Harlan) Harlan and Creston could face a must-win game to stay in contention for a Class 3A district playoff spot. Both teams fell short in their district openers. The Panthers lost 28-0 to Atlantic, and Harlan fell 21-14 to #7 Carroll High.
Cyclones Head Coach Todd Bladt says despite the loss, he saw a lot of good things from his players.
When asked about facing Creston, Coach Bladt pointed to the Panthers’ tough front lines.
Bladt says Panthers quarterback Tanner Ray has a good arm and good speed. The senior three-year starter has completed 55.9 percent of his passes for 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns. Ray also leads the team in rushing with 70 carries for 577 yards.
The Harlan offense has several capable ball carriers, including Levis Shields, Kreed Boggess, Henry Mgonja, and leading ground gainer Brody Bendorf, who has 48 carries for 241 yards and three touchdowns. Bladt says the offensive line is steadily improving.
Coach Bladt says the game will come down to turnovers: play clean, eliminate frivolous penalties, take care of the ball, and avoid turnovers.
The game kicks off at 7:00 p.m. at Creston.
