Sports - Sports News

POSTED: Monday, Nov. 02, 2009

PREP FOOTBALL: Tuesday previews

SQUALICUM AT GRANITE FALLS

Time: 7 p.m.

Site: Granite Falls High School

Storm update: Squalicum enters the postseason coming off a disappointing 28-7 loss to Mount Baker and faces the tough task of having to win two loser-out games in the next five days to reach the Class 2A state playoffs. Up first for the Storm is a road game against Granite Falls. It's a must-win that could be a challenge for the Storm if it can't get better production out of its offense than it did against the Mountaineers. Squalicum threw two interceptions in that loss and just got a little worn down on both sides of the ball in the second half after playing to a 0-0 halftime score.

Tigers update: It's hasn't been a outstanding season for Granite Falls, but after beating Sultan 24-22 last week to reach the postseason its hosting a game in the postseason and two wins away from state. The Tigers are paced by running back Coty Walker, but have a fairly balanced attack on offense. Walker has nearly 700 yards on the ground this season, and wide receiver Max Whitt has another 307 yards. Granite Falls (3-6) gave Archbishop Murphy a tough game earlier in the season, falling 30-17, and should not be overlooked.

Key to the game: Squalicum will likely have a size advantage in this game and it needs to use it. The Storm can grind out a win if the offensive and defensive lines play up to their potential.

Player to watch: Squalicum's Evan Fenton is a very solid linebacker, but he makes the most of his carries at fullback as well. It also helps that he's a devastating blocker in the hole.

SEDRO-WOOLLEY AT EVERETT

Time: 7 p.m.

Site: Everett Memorial Stadium

Cubs update: Sedro-Woolley took care of business two weeks ago when it beat Mount Vernon to reach the postseason, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't have liked to be heading into its play-in game against Everett with a little more momentum. The Cubs came up short in Week 9, losing 34-32 to a winless Lynnwood team. The loss wasn't really that bad all things considered, but it's still a less than ideal way to head into a must-win game. They gave up 20 points in the fourth quarter in the loss and they'll be looking to wipe out the bad taste that left. The good news for Sedro-Woolley is that they've been in this situation before and won last year. The bad news is that Lakes is lurking for the winner.

Seagulls update: Everett held a 14-0 lead in the third quarter last week against undefeated Meadowdale, but couldn't hold on and eventually lost 17-14. Despite the loss it must have been something of a confidence boost to hang around that long with one of the best teams in the state. That said the Seagulls come in with a less than stellar 4-5 record and have had a hard time scoring very many points consistently. Everett should take some comfort in knowing it played Ferndale closer in a 21-14 loss than Sedro-Woolley did this season. Still, quarterback Chase Herrick will have to shoulder much of the load if Everett is going to win.

Key to the game: When the Cubs have played well their offensive line has gotten the job done up front. They've been in this position before and that should help.

Player to watch: Running back Ian O'Bryan continues to carry the load for the Cubs. He had 144 yards rushing and two scores last week.