Jack: As I said in my game preview, you can’t overstate how important this game is if Anderson wants to return to the playoffs. The Bulldogs finished in the last playoff spot last season, but this is nowhere near the same team as 2022. They lost Max Barnes who ran for over 1,000 yards last season, and have no clear replacement as their top running back has just 77 yards on the season. Quarterback Cruz Tello is solid with his legs (3 rushing touchdowns) but struggles as a passer. He’s thrown more picks than touchdowns on the year and has completed just over 50% of his passes. I expect the Trojan defense to give him a tough time tonight and snag at least one interception. Offensively, the Trojans need to lean on the quick pass game and get some rushing contributions. Hopefully, that will open up the field for longer developing plays to receivers Ed Small and Tristan Waidelich later in the game. At the end of the day, the recipe for success is leaning on the defense. If they’re on tonight, I think the Trojans can completely shut down the Bulldogs. Anderson 21 Bowie 13
Sebastian: Beating Bowie would be huge for Anderson’s playoff hopes. The Trojans are in a tough district where no game is a gimmie, and starting out 2-0 in district play would be a huge confidence booster. The Bulldogs come into this game with a 1-2 record losing to Vista Ridge and Cedar Ridge, while winning their first district matchup against Del Valle. This record is somewhat misleading because their two losses come against top 50 6A teams (According to MaxPreps) in close games. The Trojan defense will need to play like they did against Austin High, but they will need more help from the offense. I see this being a tight game with Anderson pulling out the win. Anderson 24 Bowie 20
Carly: After a close game against Austin High the Trojans need to bring the heat tonight. We are 1-0 in the district, as is Bowie. Our non-district games get us to 2-1, but Bowie did not win a non-district game making them 1-2 on the season. However, last week Bowie defeated Del Valle in a shutout, while we were in a dogfight with Austin High. While we did come out on top, we need better offense if we’re going to win tonight. I think this week Anderson is going to bring the power and defeat Bowie on Friday night. My score prediction is Anderson 28 Bowie 21
Maren: Following a close game last week against Austin (17-14), it seems likely that a fire will be lit under the Trojans this evening. Especially since winning these next few games will be critical to being in playoff contention, Anderson should be ready to fight for the win. They’ll be seeking revenge after a tough loss last year against Bowie by just a field goal (24-27), and that in combination with their playoff hopes is some powerful motivation to bring the energy. It’s a matter of playing consistently on both sides of the ball to secure the win over the Bulldogs. Anderson 18 Bowie 12
