(Atlantic) Atlantic and Harlan are in the same situation as one year ago, fighting for a playoff spot. The Trojans are 3-0 in District play; Harlan is 2-1.
The Trojans defeated the Cyclones last year, ending a long losing streak. The win secured the Trojans a post-season spot. Atlantic is eyeing another streak, winning back-to-back games against Harlan, something the program hasn’t done since 1980 and 1981. Atlantic Head Coach Joe Brummer does not shy away from this conversation. Brummer says the goal is to be relevant year in and year out.
Coach Brummer says this is a big week between two good teams playing Harlan for a playoff spot. Brummer says the goal is to play big games, especially those with playoff implications.
Both teams have solid rushing attacks. Atlantic has controlled the football and kept other teams off the field. Atlantic enters the contest with 1,768 rushing yards and 542 passing yards. Harlan has 1,254 rushing yards and 658 passing yards. Brummer says you have to play with match-tough physical intensity to win at Merrill Field.
The Trojans enter the contest with four straight wins while allowing an average of nine points.
On takeaways, the Cyclones have four fumble recoveries and three interceptions. The Trojans have recovered seven fumbles and intercepted six passes.
Regarding special teams, Atlantic punter Zander Killion averages 44.1 yards per punt and is two-for-four on field goals, with the longest being 37 yards.
For Harlan, Jacob Spangenberg is 5-for-6 on field goals, with a 40-yarder. Kreed Boggess averages 38.9 yards per punt.
We will broadcast on 95.7 F.M. and live-stream on westerniowatoday.com.
