SPRINGHILL – The North Webster Knights schedule is brutal to say the least.
One week after taking on their parish rivals, Minden, North Webster will play host to Class 5A Ouachita High School this Friday.
“It’s a big one,” Knights head coach John Ware said, “They’re a typical 5A team and have been better than what they were in the past. We’ll have to be on top of our game to stay in it with them.”
The Lions are fresh off a close 43-35 loss to 4A powerhouse Neville and looking to rebound on the road against the Knights. Ouachita will line up in the spread on offense.
“They want to run it out of the spread,” Ware said. “They have a running quarterback which can cause some problems. They’re big up front and they have one receiver who is really good. It’s a big test for us.”
On defense, Ware said the Lions are just as talented, saying his offense would have to earn it this week.
“Everyone we saw them play on film ran the spread,” Ware said. “We’re totally different so I’m not sure how it’ll go, but I know we’re going to need to control the clock in order to limit some of their offensive possessions.”
Facing their second game in as many weeks against a team from a higher classification, the Knights are focused mainly on themselves and using these games as a measuring stick.
“My message to the team was to stay on the path,” Ware said. “We got better each week and we had some bad breaks last week. Our kids understand that we’ll get better from these games.”
The Knights enter this week’s contest with a 2-1 record and ranked No. 3 in Class 3A according to the Louisiana Sports Writers Association. Ouachita has been receiving votes (4) and are close to cracking the top 10 in Class 5A.
The action kicks off Friday at 7 p.m. from Springhill.