Coming up: Friday night at Albi a must-see

The Friday night doubleheader at Joe Albi Stadium is the best package in the first four weeks of the football season.

How can you go wrong with Shadle Park (2-1) taking on Gonzaga Prep (3-0) at 5 and a district rivalry featuring Mead (3-0) going against Mt. Spokane (3-0) at 7:15?

Shadle is still seeking a measure of respect in the league – more than just lip service it has received so far. And it’s up to the Highlanders to earn that respect. Defending champ Gonzaga Prep doesn’t want it to come at its expense.

The Highlanders must find a way to slow down the Bullpups’ multi-faceted running attack. G-Prep piled up 503 yards of offense against Ferris last week.

The challenge before G-Prep is defending quarterback Brett Rypien and the host of talented receivers he can use. The Bullpups’ natural defensive alignment, which features a three-man front, will be tested.

The Mead/Mt. Spokane Battle for the Bell matchup is always intriguing – even in years when one team is heavily favored. And it always draws a crowd. Last year, attendance was well over 10,000 and it should be in that range again.

Speaking of a crowd, that’s what the Panthers have running the ball. As many as eight players will be involved, making it critical for the Wildcats’ defenders to read their keys.

But it could be equally challenging for Mead. The Panthers will be served a big dose of quarterback Stu Stiles and slotback Roy Hyatt. Both are capable of breaking down defenses quickly.

• Two 0-3 teams kick off tonight’s doubleheader at Albi.

University and Lewis and Clark square off at 4:15 followed by Ferris (2-1) against Rogers (0-3) at 7:15.

• In the outside GSL game Friday, North Central (1-2) visits Central Valley (1-2) at 7.

• In a 5A Inland Empire League opener Friday, Lake City (2-2) visits Post Falls (2-2) at 7.

Post Falls must find a way to slow down the speedy Timberwolves. LC, meanwhile, will have to deal with a balanced attack from the Trojans.

Soccer

Defending Greater Spokane League champ Mt. Spokane faces a Lewis and Clark team that returns all starters today at 4 at Albi Stadium.

Cross country

In the best GSL dual this afternoon, University meets Central Valley at Liberty Lake at 4.

Volleyball

In an anticipated showdown between district rivals, defending champ Mead visits Mt. Spokane at 7.