Honkers hope for vengeance and victory

The Willows High football team clashes with Durham on the road Wednesday, and the visiting Honkers are hoping to bring home a win.

While the teams have similar offensive numbers - Willows has 210 rushing yards per game while Durham boasts 227 - the Trojans slightly edge out the Honkers in rushing. But it is the brutal defense of Durham that kept Willows at bay during their last meeting in October, and is what the Honkers will need to avoid in order to win.

When the two met Oct. 7, the Trojans were on top of their game, passing for more than 100 yards over the Honkers' total (163-46), and even more for the running game (239-58).  

In order to be able to over-take the Trojans in this next match-up the Honkers need to improve their running game. Drake Matteson and Ryan Welsh are the rushing leaders for the team, and their talents should be put to good use. Matteson hits the end zone more than anyone else on the team, so clearing a path for him to run is the best option in getting points on the board.  

In the previous meeting, Durham held Willows quarterback Justin Fortunato to 3-of-12 passing completions, which means that pass protection is very important. Honkers' Pierce Baker and Eduardo Briones lead Willows in tackles and will need to continue that form especially during the run, which is the offensive preference for Durham. The Trojans have made nine interceptions thus far in the season, with four of those interceptions coming from the first Willows matchup, meaning the Honkers should be especially careful if putting the ball in the air.  

If Willows can stuff the Trojans running game, then may be able to bring home the bacon.

CONTACT Emily Saint-Evens at 824-7990 or esaintevens@tcnpress.com.