University Academy is undefeated headed into its Week 8 matchup at Van Horn, a team with a deceiving 4-3 record.
Don't let the numbers fool you. The host Falcons started the year on a three-game winning streak, followed by a three-game losing skid. Van Horn lost to Richmond, Lincoln College Prep and St. Michael by a combined 24 points.
On defense, the Falcons have been stout, giving up a total of 64 points all season heading into Friday's DiPasquale Moore PrepsKC Metro Matchup against the Gryphons.
Van Horn will be tested at home by University Academy's collection of talented skill position players.
"UA does a good job executing their plays and plays fast," Van Horn head coach Roshaad Byrd said.
Offensively, keep an eye on Van Horn running back Sammie Bailey. He rushed for a school single game record 360 yards on 22 carries and 3 touchdowns in a 59-0 Week 7 rout of Summit Christian Academy.
Bailey "has to be our standout performer based on last week alone," Byrd said.
Van Horn wide receiver Da'Marcus Penson has been a standout as well, Byrd added. Penson, a two-way player, leads the team with 500 receiving yards and 9 touchdowns with a rushing TD and four interceptions.
This season, University Academy's merger with the Kauffman School has increased the Gryphons' talent level and competition, head coach Andrew Blakemore said. The co-opt has paid immediate dividends, Blakemore added.
"This season has revealed just how much having competition at practice can raise the standard of a program," he said. "We've got guys battling everyday with each other. On top of that, we’re creating an environment of positivity and meticulousness. Those factors, along with our exceptional coaching staff, have really helped our players to grow."
UA is 7-0 and 1-0 in the Crossroads Conference. Van Horn is 1-1. The game is a huge one with championship implications. With a win, the Falcons could clinch at least a share of the conference title. The Gryphons still have St. Michael, 6-1, 1-0, on the conference slate, but a win puts them in position to claim the Crossroads title outright in Week 9.
"Van Horn is a great program and we always look forward to playing the teams in our incredible conference," Blakemore said. "They're a physical team that will provide us with plenty of challenges. We’re excited for the opportunity."
Offensively, the Gryphons are paced by quarterback Quinton Jones, who has thrown for over 700 yards and 8 passing TDs while also rushing for 500 yards with 9 rushing TDs. Alonzo Jacobs has led the way rushing for over 1,000 yards to go along with 15 rushing TDs, Blakemore said.
"Our backfield has done a solid job of leading our offense this season," he said.
Jaeden Jenkins, another two-way standout, leads the team in receiving yards (400), receiving TDs (5), and interceptions (5).
