Knights, Grizzlies Set for Crucial Region Clash

Scouting the Knights

The River Ridge Knights look to strengthen their playoff hopes this week as they face off with the Creekview Grizzlies in a pivotal region matchup.

River Ridge has leaned heavily on its dynamic backfield duo of Camden Cox and Micah Pugh, who have combined for 1,215 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. As a team, the Knights average 184.8 yards per game on the ground. Quarterback Hunter Lockerman has thrown for 847 yards and 6 touchdowns this season but left the team’s last game early with an injury. In the passing game, Sam Vincent, Pugh, and Arden Redmon have been steady targets, combining for 561 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Defensively, the Knights have forced 15 turnovers and recorded 9 sacks. Hunter Deriso continues to anchor the pass rush with 6 sacks, while Matthew Burdette (80 tackles) and Wyatt McCarty (79 tackles) have been tackling machines. Andrew Rowe and Sam Vincent lead the secondary with 7 combined interceptions.

Scouting the Grizzlies

The Creekview Grizzlies got back on track two weeks ago with a convincing win over Pope before heading into their bye week. The Grizzlies posted 366 yards of total offense and topped the 40-point mark for the second time this season.

Offensively, Creekview has been consistent on the ground, rushing for 1,538 yards as a team. Carson Lott leads the way with 558 yards and 4 touchdowns, while Jackson Shirley has emerged as the top receiver with 22 catches for 371 yards and 5 scores. Quarterbacks Alex Penrod and Landon Barnes have combined for 849 passing yards and 11 touchdowns.

Defensively, Austin Penrod leads the Grizzlies with 66 tackles, while J.D. Russell has 56 tackles and a team-high 3 interceptions. Mason Munn provides strong linebacker play with 9 tackles for loss. The unit has produced 13 sacks and forced 10 turnovers this season.

Keys to Victory

River Ridge:

• Win the Turnover Battle: Their defense has been opportunistic all season and will need to create extra possessions again this week.

• Lean on the Ground Game: With Lockerman’s status uncertain, Cox and Pugh must continue to carry the offensive load.

• Stay Disciplined on Defense: Containing Creekview’s balanced attack will require gap discipline and limiting big plays.

  
  

Creekview:

• Control the Line of Scrimmage: Establishing Lott early will help open up the passing game for Barnes and Penrod.

• Pressure the Quarterback: If Lockerman returns, forcing him into quick decisions could disrupt the Knights’ rhythm.

• Capitalize on Red Zone Chances: Points will be at a premium in what could be a tight, low-scoring battle.

Pundit's Pick

This matchup features two teams that pride themselves on physicality and ball control. Both offenses thrive on establishing the run, and the outcome could come down to which defense forces the most mistakes.Expect a physical game dominated by defense and field position. River Ridge’s defense and special teams have delivered in key moments before — and likely will again.

Prediction: River Ridge by 3