Through three games, the Owls have a record of 1-2, with each game presenting a different performance. In the 18-30 loss to Olathe East on Friday, Sept. 20, there were multiple opportunities for the Owls to flip the outcome, but flip it they did not.
On the offensive side of the ball, there have been many identities that have been shown on the field. Point totals of 54, 12 and 18 reflect the different identities. The Owls have shown a powerful rushing attack at times, against both Shawnee Mission West and last Friday against Olathe East.
Although, as they got deeper into the game, mainly in the second half against the Hawks, they had to rely on throwing the ball, due to their opponent stifling the running game.which was the case against the Hawks. After two rushing touchdowns for the Owls, the Hawks started to contain the run, which caused the Owls to start throwing the ball more.
Another unit that struggled to find consistency was the defense. Throughout the first three quarters against the Hawks, the defensive line dominated the line of scrimmage, but when it mattered the most in the fourth quarter, the Owls defense just couldn’t find the clutch stop on third down. There were lots of opportunities for the defense to get back to the sidelines, but the consistency wasn’t there.
There are still many positives from the Owls despite the rough start. Offensively, the aforementioned running game is strong, headlined by junior Josh Foland and Sophomore Eli Ables. On the Defensive side of the ball, the defensive line for the Owls have been standouts in all three games. Seniors James Dorsey and Chase Campbell, as well as juniors Connor Tracy and Jalen Johnson have been the standout performers on the line.
Through these three games that have been played, the Owls sit at 1-2 and are tied with 7 other teams for second in the Sunflower League. Despite not having their best performances, there are opportunities to rise up the ranks in the Sunflower League this season.
The Owls look to even up their record when they take on Olathe South on Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7:00 at ODAC.
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