A pair of rivals will collide in Week 7 Friday when Aplington-Parkersburg visits #3 (1A) Dike-New Hartford. The game will air on 99 The Wave.
The Falcons (2-4, 2-1 1A-3) will go for the upset, riding a two-game win streak. In the last two outings, AP’s offense has produced dominant rushing attacks, with over 300 yards against both Central Springs and Denver. Interim coach Aaron Thomas says the recent performances have given the team momentum for the rivalry matchup.
“If we can find a way to win this one, there’s gonna be three teams with one loss in the district, and all of a sudden you’re talking that we’re right back in the district title chase with points and things of that nature, which is probably not gonna favor us,” Thomas says. “And just from a standpoint, you want this one for your people, your community, just like they’re gonna want it for their people, their community and just a lot of people care and two passionate fan bases.”
Aplington-Parkersburg would clinch a playoff spot with either a win or losses by Central Springs and Denver.
The Wolverines (5-1, 3-0 1A-3) have had their way in each district game, all of which have been decided by multiple possessions. Numerous offensive playmakers have contributed to a diverse offense that has blown most of its opponents out. The defense has given up 12 total points in district play. Head Coach Don Betts says sound defense will be a key.
“Another wing-t challenge for us,” Betts says. “We’ve faced that wing-t that AP runs the last couple of weeks for the most part. And with that, you’ve got to be very, very disciplined. Kids have to have their eyes in the right place. Everybody needs to do their job. There’s a good amount of deceptions built into a wing-t offense. Everybody’s got to be willing to do their job and let their teammates do their job. And if that happens, you’ve got a chance to shut that down.”
A Dike-New Hartford win would clinch the district title.
Dike-New Hartford leads the all-time series 19-17. The Wolverines have won six straight in the series.
Pregame coverage will begin at 6:15 p.m. with the Roling Ford Road to the Dome Warmup Show, followed by the kickoff at 7:00 at Gunderson Sports Complex.
Aaron Thomas interview:
Don Betts interview:
