The state high school football playoffs open tonight across the state. In class 4-A, top ranked Iowa City West opens a bid for a second consecutive state title against cross town rival and 6th ranked Iowa City High. West coach Reese Morgan says at this point in the season the emphasis is on the mental aspects and not the physical ones.Morgan says there are few secrets between these teams. He says they’ve played twice each year since 1994. Morgan says they are honored to play a great team like City High.Also in 4-A, second ranked West Des Moines Valley is at 7th ranked Indianola. Valley coach Gary Swenson says Indianola’s offense may be the best they have seen this season.Swenson says the playoffs offer a new feeling for the players. He says you can’t afford to have an off night because if you lose you’re out. Swenson says it’s important to win your first game to get started on the right foot.In 3-A, top ranked Harlan opens a bid for another state title by hosting Adel ADM but the Cyclones will be without tailback Ryan Lawler who is out with a broken collarbone and coach Curt Bladt says it will be a lot for his team to overcome. Bladt accounted for around 1,150 yards and 22 touchdowns.Bladt says the defense will have to come through. A year ago, The Cyclones did not allow an offensive touchdown in their playoff run.
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