STATE 4A PLAYOFFS

3 p.m., Albi Stadium

The Plainsmen (12-0), ranked fourth in State 4A, ran away with the Greater St. Helens League title. In doing so, they dominated the all-league selections, though running back Taylor Rank was passed over as the league’s offensive player of the year. That honor went to Mountain View’s Brooks Lindsley, who led the league in rushing.

But all Rank has done is run for 1,676 yards, catch 14 passes for another 196 and score 29 touchdowns. He was a first-team selection, however, as was quarterback Nick Fleck (65 percent completions, 1,988 yards and 19 touchdowns), receiver David Reinikka (33 catches, 784 yards, eight touchdowns), lineman Jason Blosser and punt returner Lonnie Hosley.

The Plainsmen start 19 seniors, including five on the offensive line, which coach Cale Piland said “really performs well as a unit.”

The defense is anchored by lineman Greg Peach, the league’s defensive player of the year. The other two D-linemen, Chad Nutter, who doubles as the tight end, and Kyle Rable, also made first team, along with linebacker Zach Black and defensive back Bryan DeAngelo.

Gonzaga Prep’s hopes are built around a defense that has yielded 10.4 points a game and has shut down three high-powered offenses in the postseason: Kennewick, which featured Big Nine-leading rusher Terrence Jackson; Southridge, with the Big Nine’s leading passer, Jason Munns; and Kentwood, led by two 1,000-plus yard rushers in Travis Nauta and Kenjamie Jackson.

The G-Prep offense has been effective enough, especially the deep passing attack between quarterback Billy Karwacki and receivers Brandon Kennedy and Brad Parker, who have combined for 15 touchdown catches this season. The offense has also been sparked by the defense, which has supplied great field position throughout the postseason. The Pups are plus-six in turnover margin in the playoffs.