After handling the Sunset Apollos 59-8 and securing the Metro League title, the Crusaders moved up to #8 in the OSAA rankings. This Friday, November 7th, Jesuit will rematch the #9 Tualatin Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs.
Earlier this year, on September 5th, Jesuit fell short to Tualatin and lost 7-13 on Cronin Field. Although they lost, Jesuit’s offense showed great shines of potential as RB Luke Ortner totalled 251 yards and the Crusaders found themselves in the red zone multiple times. This week, the Crusaders need to finish their chances and convert in the red zone to beat the Timberwolves.
Senior center Cooper Wright reflected on how the team has changed from the beginning of the season to the start of the playoffs.
“The team that played Tualatin the first time was still learning to mesh and figure out each other’s playstyles. Going into the playoffs, our team has now learned how to play together and we’ve gotten a few guys back. This should be a very different game,” said Wright.
Jesuit’ offense has been electric in league play, outscoring opponents 248-65 while winning the Metro League. Leading the charge for the Crusaders has been Ortner, rushing for over 1600 yards and scoring 19 touchdowns. Senior WR Joe Stimpson has also been dominating, catching five touchdown passes from QB Jack Wilson. These players will be crucial for Jesuit’s success this Friday.
Defensively, the Crusaders will look to fix up the secondary issues they had in their previous matchup with Tualatin. Communication and alignment will be key for the defense, ensuring that every defender is on the same page and knows who or what they are covering.
Senior WR/LB Jack Tuenge spoke about the confidence the team is feeling heading into Friday night.
“We are feeling very confident going into the game. We have had a great week of practice so far and we are playing well. I am ready and excited to play against Tualatin again,” said Tuenge.
#8 Jesuit will open the playoffs with a rematch against #9 Tualatin this Friday, November 7th, at 7:00pm on Cronin Field.
