One runningback was missing providing another with opportunity and he helped keep University firmly in the Greater Spokane League state playoffs hunt.

Jory Zettle, took his first varsity carries in the absence of the league's third-leading rusher John Wright, and gained 84 yards in 22 carries, scoring a touchdown in U-Hi's last-ditch 30-27 victory over Lewis and Clark Thursday night

U-Hi learned Wright was suspended for the game shortly before they left for Albi Stadium, said coach Bill Diedrick. He said Zettle was worked his way back from academic woes.

Tony Tabish is establishing himself as a college prospect. He rallied U-Hi from a 14-0 deficit, passing for 284 yards and three touchdowns. A friend e-mailed that Tabish was gutsy, fearless and accurate and had his plan figured out in a final drive in the game's 1 minute, 45 seconds, that led to the winning field goal with 3 seconds left. Diedrick said they practice their "May Day" two-minute offense every day and if kids wondered why because it's seldom used in a game, this one paid off. Not only was it a great victory, but a life lesson as well.

"We went into the game with a huge void," said coach Diedrick. "It was such a wonderful happening. It proved no one is indispensible. In the end we talked about several issues - maturity, and how to approach games."

The Titans (5-2) will know where they stand following tonight's Mead-Gonzaga Prep and Central Valley-Ferris games. Six wins could conceivably tie them for second place. Thursday's win knocked LC out of the playoffs and if there becomes a three-way tie for third among U-Hi, the Bears and Panthers, U-Hi's early win over the Bullpups could also be a playoff determinant depending upon who beats whom in the final two weeks.

 "Last night was huge," said Diedrick. "We control our own destiny and will continue to peck away."

 

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