KidSilverhair
Well-Known Member
Sorry I didn't see this earlier. My response might be too late for you to catch before the game, but here goes.
I don't know a whole lot about Waverly-Shell Rock. It looks like they have a good offense - over 330 yards per game - and their only losses were to West Delaware (always a real good 3A team) and Clear Lake (top team in 2A). They did beat Charles City by just 2 points in Week 9, and Xavier thumped Charles City on Wednesday, so if that means anything ...
I expect Xavier to win this one, not necessarily easily, but by a couple of touchdowns wouldn't surprise me. The Saints' defense is really playing tough - forced eight turnovers the last two games, and held Charles City out of the end zone inside the 10 yard line twice on Wednesday. They've only given up one touchdown rushing to 3A teams all year. Xavier's offense is not quite as explosive as it's been the past few years, and they've certainly struggled to move the ball in their losses. Judging by yards allowed, it doesn't look like Waverly-Shell Rock's D is terrifically strong, so that's a point in Xavier's favor.
The weather might be a factor, if we get the rain tonight. Xavier has started throwing the ball downfield really well the past two games, so if a wet night takes that away, they'll have to rely on the run. They've been super great rushing the ball some games, and pretty ineffective in some games. But if it's a smash-mouth ground game on a wet field, Xavier's defense should give them the edge.
