Aden Flory looks over his shoulder on a 44-yard reception against Reed last week. Flory has 173 yards receiving through six games.
Photo by Ron Harpin.
After the last two games had been moved, it’s back to Friday night lights for Douglas High football.
Coming off a 62-24 loss to Reed last Saturday, the Tigers again look to slow an opponent’s offense.
Over the previous four contests, Douglas football is allowing an average of nearly 46 points per game.
That makes Friday’s home game with Damonte Ranch all that much tougher of a test, as the Mustangs are coming off a 38-7 drubbing of Reno High last week.
It was also a season-high in points for Damonte Ranch in the win over the Huskies, meaning the Mustangs’ offense is figuring out ways to be successful.
Players to watch
While the Mustangs don’t have their latest statistics updated online, there are certainly a few names Tiger football fans should be on the lookout for.
The first is senior defensive back Michael Venezia (No. 14), who is coming off a two interception game last week in the win over Reno.
With four total interceptions on the year, Venezia is quickly showing Northern Nevada that throwing his way could lead to instant regret.
He’s also recorded two pass breakups and a forced fumble while averaging 5.5 tackles per contest.
Fellow defenseman Braelen Toles (20) leads the Mustangs with four sacks so far this season and boasts 24 total tackles to go with his six tackles for loss.
When it comes to the Mustang offense, Douglas will have to limit running back Cameron Rodriguez (35).
Douglas has surrendered 300-plus rushing yards in three of its last four contests and while Rodriguez may not be the most prolific runner in the North, statistically speaking, the Tigers have to slow Damonte’s run game if they want to hang with the Mustangs.
Turning to the Tigers
Douglas posted 24 points in its loss to Reed last week, the second highest point total this season for the Tigers.
Offensively, it’s not a secret Douglas wants to control the game with its rushing attack as junior half back Connor Jackson posted his fourth game of the season with at least 98 yards rushing.
Last week on defense, Grant Gomes and Aaron Tekansik led Douglas with nine and eight tackles, respectively.
If Douglas wants to get back in the win column Friday, the Tigers will need to limit big plays and keep the Mustangs from putting together quick, momentum-shifting drives.
5A North standings
(League, overall)
B. Manogue 4-0, 4-2
Galena 2-0, 5-1
Reed 3-1, 4-2
Sp. Springs 1-1, 2-4
D. Ranch 1-1, 1-4
Reno 1-2, 3-3
McQueen 1-2, 2-4
Carson 0-3, 1-5
Douglas 0-3, 1-5
