The varsity Patriot football team will try to spoil West High’s Homecoming tomorrow when they kick off against the Longhorns at 7 p.m.

South has another intense matchup this week as both teams are going in with the same mindset and the same record of 2-4. Though the season hasn’t gone exactly like either team has expected, this week means more than most. Not only the rivalry itself but this game can determine where each team lands in the playoffs, because West and South are in the same district. No matter what grade you’re in though, this rivalry runs deep and is a must win game to most of the players. 

“It would be great to win since we lost our Homecoming and this would be a get back week for us to ruin their homecoming. This is also just a warm up for playoffs,” freshman Landon Nickerson said. 

One thing West has shown over and over again, is to throw and get the ball out quick. Knowing this, South players are quickly adapting to prevent yards after the catch. 

“One thing we need to focus on is definitely our individual assignment on defense. And tackle well. Last week we had a lot of missed tackles and need to do a better job of wrapping up,” senior Adrian Pena said.   

As a senior, Pena wants this win Friday night more than the past years.

“Beating these guys is almost a must. For the past three years I’ve lost to them and it would be nice to get them at least one time in my four years,” Pena said. 

As important as defense is, the offense is making some changes this week too, preparing for West. 

“We are switching roles as an O-Line and making changes in the backfield specifically for this game. And if it goes well maybe for the season,” junior Andy Hertlein said. 

Of course being able to stop the pass and put up points is a must this week but the rivalry is still alive between the two teams. 

“Based on film, I think they’ll be one of the softest teams we’ll play all year,” Hertlein said. 

It’s been season after season and at least a decade since the South has beaten West. Players are aware of the losing streak and want to be the ones to stand on top of West this year. 

“They always think they’re better than us and it’s annoying having to lose to them each year. We have to bring the intensity as a defense and play fast,” sophomore J.J Webster said. 

Having just under 500 receiving yards so far this season, junior Dashon Davis will be a threat to West’s defense. Also, in the back field, Rashad Cross, with 246 rushing yards so far, will be a force against them. Not only that, but August Johansen, Adrian Pena, and Tristen Sutton all combine for 136 total tackles heading into this week’s game and don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. 

This week, the players have been feeling more confident than nervous. They’re not letting a record get in the way of competing every game. Especially going into Friday night. 

“I feel more confident than anything. If we all do our job and focus on the correct technique, we will win this game and it’ll feel great to ruin their Homecoming,” Pena said.