The final week of the high school football regular season is upon us. Playoff spots are on the line for five local high schools, while Humboldt already has its postseason ticket punched. Here are the matchups for week 8:
Prairie View vs. Iola
Despite losing at Girard 14-12, the Mustangs arguably displayed their best performance. Iola brought passion and energy for all four quarters, even holding the lead at one point in the first quarter. Ultimately, Iolas offense remained stagnant after a quarter of play, and defense failed to get a stop late that would have given Iola one more opportunity to execute their two-minute offense.
Powerhouse Prairie View pummeled Anderson County 41-0 last week to remain undefeated. Prairie Views season has earned them recognition by Kpreps.com. The Buffalos dont rank in the top five, but have received consideration to be ranked. Clearly, Iola has a tough task. If the Mustangs do win, they have a glimmer of hope that next weeks game has more meaning than just a consolation prize. In order for the Mustangs to reach the playoffs, Girard and Burlington would both have to lose their Friday night contests, and Iola make up the point differential. It is possible that any star players for the Buffalos who are limited by injury, could be given the week off to heal for the postseason. Prairie View has nothing left to play for after already clinching the class 3A district 2 title. On the other hand, Iolas seniors have everything to gain in their final home game of their careers.