Key matchups featured in first round of football playoffs

The state high school football playoffs open across the state tonight. In class 2-A 7th ranked Iowa Falls hosts West Hancock in a matchup of programs that have combined for 18-playoff appearances this decade. The only time this decade West Hancock did not qualify for the playoffs was last season and coach Bob Sanger says they are glad to be back.Sanger says it is a matchup of two outstanding programs.Iowa Falls coach Gary McElmuray says the playoffs are a new beginning.McElmuray missed the first half of the season due to health problems and feels his club is playing its best at the right time.In class 1-A, fifth ranked Bedford hosts Pleasantville. Bedford coach Bob McCoy is concerned with Pleasantville’s speed.McCoy says mistakes and turnovers are magnified in the playoffs.