Douglas High kicker Kaleb Valdez (52) boots home a field goal against Carson High on Friday. Valdez has yet to miss a kick for the Tigers this season, going a perfect 10-for-10 on extra points and 4-for-4 on field goals.
Photo by Ron Harpin.
After a 12-11 loss to Carson last Friday, Douglas High football was eliminated from postseason contention.
However, Douglas’ season isn’t over just yet as the Tigers finish against Spanish Springs on Friday.
For the final game of the season for the 1-7 Tigers, intensity and pride is going to be determined by those who suit up.
The number of rostered players may be under 30 by kickoff, but Tiger head coach Kyle Mays is hoping Douglas can end the year with some positive takeaways in the final game.
“Our senior leadership is top-notch kids. The message this week will be a lesson in life. It doesn’t matter where you sit, you work your tail off and try to do your best,” said Mays.
Taking a look at the Cougars
All over the offense, the Cougars have playmakers capable of chewing up yards.
That, of course, starts with senior quarterback JJ Dain (No. 1), who has 1,124 passing yards and 10 touchdowns.
“They’re fast, physical. They are athletic, big and coach (Rob) Hummel always has them ready to play,” said Mays.
When Spanish Springs does decide to run, Zach Eaton (21) has been the favorite choice with 441 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
The Cougars will mix and match looks and formations on defense.
Seniors Marco Casci (40), Nate Penney (3) and Blake Riggs (32) are Spanish Spring’s three leading tacklers.
Casci has a team-high 66 total tackles and an interception.
“They’re going to bring pressure. They are going to change up their fronts,” said Mays. “They’ve got studs all over the place.”
The reality for Douglas is slowing the Cougars will be just as tough a mental battle as a physical one.
Offensively for the Tigers, Connor Jackson has been a staple in the backfield as he has 609 rushing yards this season alongside five touchdowns.
Jackson had three games of 100-plus yards on the ground and has been instrumental in the Tigers offense.