Scouting the Warriors
The Cherokee Warriors are back at home at Tommy Baker field and are looking to find a way to get their potent offense into the right gear with three region games remaining. Last week, the Warriors turned the ball over twice. Those turnovers were converted into points by the opposition, which is a backbreaker for momentum. Cherokee dropped their fourth consecutive game last week. They are averaging 21 points per game this season and allowing 24.8. The defense only gave up 14 points last week and has been consistent all season long. Javon Hobson, (43 total tackles, 2 sacks), Chase Montgomery, (47 total tackles, 3 sacks), and Keynan Hunter (42 tackles, 2 sacks) continue to be stalwarts up front for the Warriors. Weston Bergman is second on the team in total tackles (46), from his safety position. He's also blocked 3 kicks and forced a fumble this season.
Scouting the Raiders
The Walton Raiders enter this week’s matchup squarely in the drivers seat for their first region title since 2017. Walton is averaging 51.2 points per game. They are generating 384.3 yards per game of total offense. Senior quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski has thrown for 1,763 yards yards and 21-TDs. Cam Loyd, Hunter Teal, Jordan Bride and Will Sonderman have been his top targets, as the quartet has combined to catch 88 passes for 1,675 yards and 20-TDs. Meanwhile, the duo of Makari Bodiford and Austin Williams have combined to rush for 932 yards and 18-TDs. Linebacker Ashton Woods leads the defense with 63 total tackles while Wendell Gregory has recorded 7 sacks. The Raiders have forced 17 turnovers this season.
Pundit's Pick
The Warriors will need to protect the ball if they are going to have any shot in upsetting the Raiders and keeping their playoff hopes alive. The defense will also need to force a few turnovers. Even if they do, that might not be enough to contain an explosive Walton offense. Raiders by four touchdowns.
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