The Jays are one step closer to their goal of a state championship. With a win over Millard North last Friday, the Jays are on to the semi-finals against the Bellevue West Thunderbirds. The Jays were victors by the score of 35-21, and the Thunderbirds exploded to a 63-42 victory. The teams have both been dominant all year, the Jays are on a 7 game win streak, while the Thunderbirds have not lost all year long, holding an 11-0 record.
One of Bellevue West’s biggest strength is their run game. Last week, Jaylin Bradley, Bellevue West running back, ran for 496 yards on 41 carries. Bradley averaged 12 yards per carry and scored 7 touchdowns. Along with this huge game on the ground, Joe Dolincheck, junior quarterback, threw for 249 yards with 2 touchdowns. The Jays will have a huge task in stopping the run game, but the Jays are ready for any obstacle the Thunderbirds throw them.
One of the best Jay’s best attribute this year has been the passing game. With the Thunderbirds allowing 42 points last week, look for a shootout this week between the two. With both teams having explosive offenses, it is easy to overlook the defensive aspect of the game. There is a popular saying among sports teams in every sport, “offense wins games, but defense wins championships.” Both teams will need to have a great game on both sides of the ball to move onto the state final in Lincoln.
The game is at Bellevue West at 7 p.m.