After wrapping up their non-district schedule with their most complete performance of the season, the Atlantic Trojans will travel to Creston to open their district schedule against the Panthers. The Trojans start the most important stretch of the year with a 2-2 record and with the season halfway complete, head coach Joe Brummer feels his team is right where they should be.

Atlantic will face a Creston team that is still searching for their first win. However, with losses to Des Moines Christian, Glenwood, Winterset and Clarinda, not only was their non-district schedule extremely challenging, but it is also not indicative of the team they have.

The Creston offense is led by junior quarterback Tanner Ray. Not only has he thrown for over 700 yards, but he is also the team’s leading rusher with 413 yards and a pair of touchdowns on the ground. Much like last week, the Trojans will have to deal with all-around athlete at the quarterback position.

Although the abilities of both Ray and Boyd (Storm Lake) mean there are some similarities between Creston and what Atlantic saw last week, there are some minor differences.

The Creston defense struggled to hold teams through their first four games, allowing more than 28 points in all four contests. It should come as no surprise that a major part of the Trojans gameplan will be to control the line of scrimmage, but beyond that they will look to use what has worked against Creston’s defense this year. However, that doesn’t mean it will be any less of a challenge.

Make no mistake, this is a big game for the Trojans. Not only because of the playoff implications that come with opening district play, but because of the rivalry that has been controlled by Creston. Atlantic has not won in Creston since 2008 but this year, the keys to winning start up front.

You can catch all the action on KJAN and KJANTV with pregame coverage at 6:30 pm. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 pm.