The Festus Tigers Varsity Football team looks to rebound in week six after a devastating loss last Friday, where a last-minute fumble cost them the game against their bitter rival. The Tigers fell to the Hillsboro Hawks 34-29, as normally sure-handed stud QB Cole Rickermann was stripped in the red zone, essentially ending the game and dropping Festus’ record to 3-2.
Despite last week’s hiccup, the Tigers have been impressive this season, and have been in a position to win every game. Their only other loss came at the hands of the Ste. Genevieve Dragons in week one, where they also suffered a late-game heart-breaker (36-31). Both opponents that defeated the Tigers boast less than a touchdown in terms of margin of victory, and in games that Festus has won they have outscored opponents 150-32. Seems more like a bit of bad luck than a team chasing its tail.
This week’s opponent is a tough one in the North County Raiders. The Tigers will have to travel for this matchup and the Raiders are currently sitting on a 4-1 record this season. Their only blemish is a 42-7 unravelling at the hands of the Hillsboro Hawks, but outside of that game they have dominated the competition. Wins of 35-12, 53-13, 43-0 and 50-14 show that this organization may have just had an off day in week four. Festus would do well to not take this foe lightly.
However, the Tigers air assault with Rickermann and wide receivers Arhmad Branch and Isaac Stucke is one of the most formidable in the State, and their offense is balanced by the pounding running style of Kaian Roberts-Day. With both facets of the offense working in unison, the Tigers should be able to put up a fight regardless of the opponent. Not to mention, it seems that Emily Holt has eliminated any worries in the kicking department.
The Tigers will have to gear up for this one, but if anyone is up to the challenge it’s Head Coach AJ Ofodile‘s crew. Kickoff will be Friday, October 1st at 7 pm in North County.