HIgh school football second season begins tonight

Eighty teams take to the field this evening for the opening round of the high school playoffs. One of the top matchups is in class 1A where second-rated Eldora-New Providence hosts third-ranked West Hancock. Eldora-New Providence and coach Tom Jaden have plenty of motivation after a first round loss to West Hancock last year. He says it’s a little payback and part of their goal this year to make a statement in the playoffs.West Hancock coach Bob Sanger says it will be a chore to duplicate last year’s opening round victory.Also in class 1A, Colfax-Mingo has been one of the surprise teams this year and take a number-nine ranking into a matchup at home against upset minded Conrad BCLUW.BCLUW coach Les Penik says they know they can play with the good teams. His solid run defense will try to stop one of the state’s leading rushers in Colfax-Mingo’s Justin Sage. He says the defense prides itself on making its assignments and hitting hard.In class A, second-ranked Hubbard-Radcliffe is at home against tenth ranked Northwood Kensett.Hubbard-Radcliffe coach Bill Huebner says field position will be the key. He says the team that makes the other drive the length of the field will have the advantage. He says he has confidence in his defense as they’re only giving up about five points a ballgame.