The #1 (1A) Grundy Center football team will battle for their sixth consecutive UNI-Dome berth as they host Sumner-Fredericksburg in a Class 1A quarterfinal on Friday. The game will air on 99 The Wave. This will be the first ever meeting between the programs.
Grundy Center (10-0) was a step ahead on both sides of the ball in a 42-7 win over West Branch in the second round last week. Junior quarterback Judd Jirovsky was in a zone for the Spartans in the win over the Bears accounting for five touchdowns (three rushing and two passing). Senior running back Brody Zinkula (10) and senior receiver Tiernan Vokes (14) have helped the Spartans offense stay on a roll with 24 combined touchdowns. The Spartans defensive backfield has been a game changer with 17 interceptions (tied for the most in 1A).
Grundy Center Head Coach Travis Zajac on consistent preparation and playing loose over the course of the season into their playoff run.
“It’s all breeded in competitive confidence. We prepare really well, we do our homework, we get pretty detailed scout reports on each opponent. Our kids execute, our coaches do an excellent job of teaching. When it gets to Friday nights, no regrets, play loose, play fast, have fun,” says Zajac. “You’ve got a whole community at your back and let the chips fall where they may. It’s been a pretty successful formula for us. The kids are excited for another opportunity to compete, another home game for our seniors at Spartan Stadium, their last one. It’s gonna be a great night.”
Sumner-Fredericksburg (7-3) won 14-0 in a defensive game at Manson-NW Webster in the second round last week. The Cougars have rushed for 1,837 rushing yards. Top rushers have been senior Noah Henderson with 845 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns and senior Tatum Nuss with 641 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. The Cougars have also been stout in pass coverage with 16 interceptions (tied for third most in 1A).
Zajac on slowing down the Cougars’ run game.
“We’re going to try to be multiple defensively. Take away what they want to do in the throw game. The rushing attack is really kind of where they make their hay. They only threw the ball three times last week and their Round of 16 win. That doesn’t mean that they can’t throw it, but they much prefer to be able to establish line of scrimmage around the football. They’ve got three or four kids that can hurt you that way too. They’re a challenge to defend, but one that we’re really excited to take on. We pride ourselves on our ability to play good defense. It will be a stern challenge for us against those Cougars.”
Coverage on 99 The Wave begins with The Roling Ford Road to the Dome Warmup Show at 6:15 p.m. followed by the kickoff at 7:00 p.m. in Grundy Center. The winner advances to the Class 1A state semifinals at the UNI-Dome on Friday, October 15th.
