Rivalry games always have a prospect of excitement, opportunity and challenges around them, and that is exactly what the Riverside Bulldogs are preparing for as they get ready to head to Avoca to face AHSTW. After falling out of the rankings, Riverside is back in the top ten after a 44-32 win over Mount Ayr last week. Although head coach Darrell Frain was happy with the win, he knows there is room for improvement.

It is no surprise that Jaxon Gordon played a big part in the win rushing for 422 yards and five touchdowns. As always, he will be a big factor in Friday’s contest as Frain praises his toughness, durability and work ethic.

However, on that same note, the Bulldogs will have to deal with an aggressive Vikings defense. As a team, AHSTW has accumulated 16.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks through two games. For Riverside, this means complimentary football on offense will be key.

On defense, the Bulldogs will face a balanced offense. Vikings quarterback Dayton Osbahr has thrown for over 250 yards and three touchdowns while Drew Lee is averaging 13.1 yards per carry. Frain says making their offensive one-dimensional will be a key to walking out of Avoca with a win.

Despite the recent success of the Riverside program, the Bulldogs have struggled with AHSTW. Since 2008, Riverside is just 2-11 against the Viking and Frain is hoping that adds a little extra motivation.

Although it’ll be a challenge for the Bulldogs, rivalry games always have an air of excitement.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 pm in Avoca and you can catch all the action on KJAN with the coverage starting at 6:30 pm.