Good analysis Ipsa. I think Huntsville is definitely looking for the Iowa Hawkeye type game with the over/under in the 20’s, similar to their 14-13 Randle game. They need to limit the mistakes, get some 1st downs, run some clock, and make this a defensive game. If PNG jumps out 14-0, it will be trouble. A shootout clearly favors PNG. The Hornets did have that 39-36 game with Brenham, but that’s not the kind of game they want to play here.
Really excited for this game. The last NRG game I saw was Huntsville-Manvel in 2018. Not sure the Hornets can stay with PNG though. The defense has been playing really well but that PNG O-Line will be a challenge. Hornets will probably need some turnovers to have a chance. Also, can’t let PNG get a 2 score lead. If they can keep it a low scoring slugfest, then they may have a chance to steal one. Huntsville has played a very challenging schedule. The last 6 games have been tough opponents and 3 of the non district games were too. So I think they are prepared and can hopefully stay in this one. Regardless, it has been a successful season getting to Round 4 for the Hornets.
Former Huntsville D-Lineman T’Vondre Sweat is the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. PNG folks might remember him when the Hornets came to town in 2018. He was quite the force.
No, they do not. Probably want to keep it on the down-low. The Hornets are a 3rd place team that is playing in the 4th round. They have been underdogs each week. Once again, no one expects them to win. Reminds me a little of Crosby’s 2020 run where they won 4 in a row. Although their insane run came against undefeated teams
I’m sure Pieper will be favored. Liberty Hill has been to the Region Final all 4 years they have been in 5A. I don’t think their first matchup has much importance. Liberty Hill had five 2nd half turnovers in that game and lost by 10. LH likes to ground and pound with the slot-T and Pieper looks like they like to sling it. This looks like another of these Reg 4 Finals where the punters can stay home. I see a shootout. Flip a coin for the winner.
Well Huntsville has had some success against PNG, beating them in ‘18 and ‘19. However, it will be tough to do this time. It’s been a good run for a 5-5, 3rd place team to get to a Region Final.