With the bright lights shining, Creighton Prep took the field against rival Westside for the first game of the season on Friday night. Still stinging from a disappointing 41-0 loss last year, the Junior Jays were motivated to head out onto the field and avenge their past failures. Prep did just that, manhandling Westside on their way to a 38-3 victory.

Prep started fast on both sides of the ball, with the defense stepping up to create multiple three-and-outs, and the offense working their way down the field with ease. The defense came up big throughout the game, forcing three fumbles, and holding Westside to only three points on the night, much to the delight of senior running back Nate Reiner.

“The defense really set the tone for the whole game. They kept giving the offense chances to score and I’m glad we capitalized on those turnovers,” said Reiner.

When the defense put Reiner in position to score, he capitalized. Reiner ran rampant over Westside, gaining 150 yards and scoring three touchdowns.

Senior quarterback AJ Hubner was complimentary of Reiner’s role in the victory.

“Nate was essential to the victory. He set the tone for the offense, once he got going we were tough to stop. He’s a great player that will be fun to watch this year,” said Hubner.

After a large victory, Hubner still believes that there are aspects that the Junior Jays still must improve on, as they look towards Burke next week.

“We need to make better reads on the offensive side of the ball, catch all passes, and finish every play. On defense we need to continue to be aggressive and set the tone early,” said Hubner.

Overall, the Junior Jays came out to play, and showed their merit. With an impressive victory in the books, next up for the number eight Junior Jays is seventh ranked Omaha Burke, as both teams look to continue their winning ways.