Ferris, G-Prep matchup will thrill

A third week in Greater Spokane League football is upon us and a third showdown looms.

That’s the beauty of a league deep in quality. And for a third straight week, the Ferris Saxons (2-0) will be involved in the face-off when they visit the Gonzaga Prep Bullpups (2-0) on Friday. Kickoff is at 7.

Ferris defensive coordinator Grady Emmerson dialed up the right scheme to slow down Shadle Park quarterback Brett Rypien. Now he has to draw up a different scheme for defending the Bullpups’ dangerous option attack.

“Against option the kids have to play assignment football,” Ferris head coach Jim Sharkey said. “Last year they did a good job of blocking us in space and they played more physical than us.”

On its way to the league championship, G-Prep dispatched Ferris 39-13.

The Bullpups graduated quarterback Zach Bonneau and speedy running back Griffin Hare along with a senior-based offensive line. G-Prep has found capable replacements all around.

Ferris is looking forward to the challenge.

The Saxons’ two-way standout, Cole Karstetter, said both teams have respect for each other.

“Besides (Lewis and Clark), Prep is one of our biggest rivals,” Karstetter said. “We know they’re going to come out physical. It’s going to be a great game. We’ve got to come out, be humble, take this win (over Shadle Park) and move on and keep the momentum going.”

• In the single game at Joe Albi Stadium on Thursday, Mt. Spokane (2-0) faces Central Valley (1-1).

The game marks the return of Mt. Spokane senior quarterback Stu Stiles, who had to sit out the first two games because of a self-reported violation.

• In the Albi doubleheader Friday, a team will finally crack the win column when North Central (0-2) and Rogers (0-2) meet in the opener at 5 followed by Mead (2-0) against Lewis and Clark (0-2) at 7:30.

• In the other outside game Friday, Shadle Park (1-1) travels to University (0-2). Kickoff is at 7.

• On Saturday, Coeur d’Alene (1-2) makes its third long trip when it heads to Pocatello to face No. 1-ranked Highland (3-0).