In what is shaping up to be one of, if not the biggest game of the year, the Harlan Cyclones will look to solidify their playoff position when they visit the Trojan Bowl Friday night. After surviving a very difficult non-district schedule, the Cyclones are 3-1 in their last four games with their only loss being to Carroll. Although a loss would not eliminate them completely, it would almost certainly keep them on the outside looking in. Head coach Todd Bladt and his team knows what is at stake.

On paper, the Cyclones appear to be having a rough year. However, looks can be deceiving. The Cyclones ran a gauntlet in their first four games. Starting the year 0-3, they suffered narrow losses to Underwood and Glenwood before falling to Lewis Central. Despite the tough start, Harlan has come around. They’ve won three of their last four with two shutouts while the offense has averaged over 40 points per game. Throughout the course of the year, Harlan has learned a lot about themselves and where they’ve needed to improve.

The Cyclones are led by their senior quarterback Gabe Arkfeld. So far, he has thrown for over 1,100 yards and 11 touchdowns and isn’t afraid to get out of the pocket. Bladt said it was this fearlessness and tenacity that has helped make him so effective.

Bladt and the Cyclones are well aware of the size and talent that Atlantic brings, especially in the run game. He says that they will have to be disciplined and stick to their assignments if they are going to slow down the Trojans.

Similarly to Atlantic, this game has a lot of meaning for Harlan. In addition to the implications with the playoff picture, Harlans has not lost to Atlantic in 23 years, so there is no doubt that pride will be on the line as well. You can catch all action on KJANTV with pregame coverage beginning at 6:30. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 pm.