St. Thomas Aquinas returns to Blue Valley High School this Friday night at 7 p.m., taking on Blue Valley Southwest in Week 2.
Aquinas (1-0) began the season last week with a 48-19 win over Blue Valley, while Blue Valley Southwest (0-1) fell to Lansing, 34-27.
Last season, the Saints defeated the Timberwolves, 49-8, in Week 2. Blue Valley Southwest finished the season 3-6.
"We had a great result last week, and there we so many positives," said coach Randy Dreiling. "But there were plenty things we were able to improve on after watching the film. This game is another opportunity to get better as we work toward our goal."
The defense shut out Blue Valley last week in the first half, 41-0. Linebacker Bobby Pierce leads the defense after Week 1 with 5 tackles, one for a loss, a sack, and an interception for a touchdown. Michael McNamara has 9 tackles and two hurries. Cameron Penny has three tackles, one for a loss, and a hurry. Defensive back Terrence Collins has four tackles and a pass break-up. Sa'o Siavi'i has a sack and a tackle for a loss.
Last season against Blue Valley Southwest, returning defensive lineman Peyton Reeves had 7 tackles and 2 hurries.
"In Week 1 the defense was active. They limited Blue Valley to minimal yardage and made some big plays. We're looking to build on that this week," said Dreiling.
With strong defense and explosive offense in last season's match-up, Aquinas built a 42-6 halftime lead.
That same ability to score on offense showed itself in Week 1 this year. The Saints averaged 6 yards per play, gaining 255 yards rushing and 143 passing. Aquinas had 23 first downs and dominated possession, 33-15.
Junior quarterback Blake Anderson has 143 passing yards and 3 touchdowns. Junior fullback Tank Young is averaging 8.1 yards per carry. Nine different players rushed the football for Aquinas in Week 1, and four players had receptions, including three with touchdown receptions.
"We're going to continue to use all facets of the offense as appropriate," said Dreiling. "We have full confidence in our players and coaches to be prepared to take whatever the defense gives us."
