Sports - High Schools

POSTED: Friday, Nov. 06, 2009

Football caps: Saturday, Nov. 7

Saturday

West Seattle at Ferndale

Time: 7:30 p.m.

Site: Civic Stadium

Wildcats update: It's been a long road to the postseason for West Seattle. After finishing in a three-way tie for the Metro League Sound Division title the Wildcats had to play a miniplayoff two weeks ago against Rainier Beach and Nathan Hale. They took the No. 2 seed out of that and lost to Seattle Prep 28-13 last week. That's a lot of football in a short amount of time; still West Seattle will be tough. Quarterback Ellison Tran has had a fine season and Markeem Adams is a dangerous runner and receiver. The team also has good size and speed.

Golden Eagles update: Ferndale heads into the postseason with a ton of confidence following a 31-7 clobbering of Mount Vernon last week. The Golden Eagles have been on a role in recent weeks, having won five straight. The offense seems to be hitting its stride and the defense hasn't allowed more than two touchdowns in a game since September. Ferndale will be playing for the second seed to state from District One so this will be the last time it will be playing close to home. The Golden Eagles will want to make the most of it.

Key to the game: Playing significant minutes in the postseason will be a new thing for most of Ferndale's players. They'll need to stay calm and focused and avoid mistakes.

Player to watch: Ferndale's Willy Scott has presented a mismatch for just about every team the Golden Eagles have faced because of his speed.

Squalicum at Lynden

Time: 7 p.m.

Site: Lynden High School

Storm update: Squalicum had little trouble with Granite Falls in its play-in game on Tuesday, running past the Tigers 31-6. The Storm will have a tougher time against Lynden. Facing a familiar opponent will help Squalicum since it only has a few days to prepare, but three football games in a week can beat down even the best teams. Squalicum played Lynden closer than the 42-17 score would indicate earlier in the season, but the Lions are rested and ready. If Squalicum can control the ball it will have a chance. If not it will be a long night.

Lions update: Things have got to be starting to feel like déjà-vu for the Lynden football team. For the second consecutive seasons the Lions are meeting Squalicum in the postseason with a trip to state on the line. Lynden toppled Burlington-Edison 20-0 last week to win the Northwest Conference crown and wrap up the top Class 2A seed. Its reward is facing a Storm team it already beat 42-17 once this season at home. Last year when the two played at the district tournament it was a closer game with the Lions winning 21-7. Lynden is hoping history repeats itself again.

Key to the game: Both teams benefitted from turnovers in the first meeting, but Lynden was able to do more with Squalicum's mistakes. Making each offense work for its points will be important for both teams.

Player to watch: Lynden's Brett Bajema might have to shoulder the rushing load if heavy rains leave the field soggy.