The upcoming high school football games in the La Crosse area are under scrutiny as weather disruptions have postponed several matchups. Coaches and players are optimistic that this week’s games will proceed as scheduled. The Tribune recently conducted a poll asking readers to vote for the featured Game of the Week, with the Battle for the Ark matchup between La Crosse Central and Logan securing the honor in the previous week. Voting for this week’s game will conclude at 16:00 on Thursday.
Exciting Matchup in Scenic Bluffs Conference
This week, the spotlight shines on a thrilling contest between two title contenders in the Scenic Bluffs Conference. Bangor, boasting a record of 4-1 overall and 3-0 in conference play, will face off against Luther at Luther High School in Onalaska, Wisconsin, on August 30, 2024. Bangor has overwhelmed its opponents, outscoring them 102-8 in conference matchups. Key players such as Hayden Massman and Dylan Mathison have propelled a robust rushing attack that has consistently challenged defenses.
On the other hand, Royall has had a mixed start, losing both of its non-conference games but winning two close contests against Brookwood and Hillsboro to maintain a 3-0 record against Scenic Bluffs opponents. Sophomore quarterback Braxton Board has thrown for five touchdowns, alongside a trio of interceptions, while running backs Jett Bender and Jason Johnson have combined for over 500 yards and four touchdowns.
Team Highlights and Player Performances
Another team to watch is West Salem, which rides a four-game winning streak after an opening loss to Onalaska. Quarterback Drew McConkey has been a crucial asset, throwing for nine touchdowns and providing a significant threat in the passing game. Junior running back Rory O’Neill leads the ground attack with 308 yards and five touchdowns, averaging an impressive seven yards per carry.
In contrast, Onalaska Luther has had a tumultuous season. After losing their first two games, the Knights bounced back with victories over Gale-Ettrick-Trempealeau and Black River Falls but faced a setback against Aquinas, losing 45-12 last week. Junior quarterback Johnny Holub has thrown five touchdowns against six interceptions this season, while running back Logan Pierce has tallied 253 yards and two scores.
Meanwhile, Caledonia has exhibited a strong defensive performance, allowing only 10.8 points per game over their first four contests, highlighted by a recent shutout victory against Dover-Eyota. The Warriors, holding a 2-2 record, have quarterback Will Allen leading the offense with 473 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions, while running back Jack Schmitz has accumulated 321 yards and five touchdowns on just 40 carries.
As the high school football season progresses, fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes of these critical matchups. With voting for the Game of the Week open until Thursday, the community’s engagement highlights the significance of high school sports in fostering local pride and camaraderie.