Outlook: Valley Christian’s defense will get a stiff test this week from a pass-first offensive team that runs out of the shotgun formation with multiple receivers.
Crusaders quarterback Jacob Franz has attempted 224 passes this season, an average of 37 attempts a contest. In the last four games, Franz is averaging 256 yards passing, including a seasonhigh 278 in a 43-0 win over Westwind Prep.
“He gets rid of the ball really quick,” Valley Christian coach Bill Morgan said of Franz. “They can score real quick, so we can never feel too comfortable in that game.”
One thing that Valley Christian has that other teams don’t is a strong pass rush from defensive end Isaac Remington. Morgan said he plans to use Remington in a variety of spots along the line.
Offensively, the Trojans had their worst night of the year in last week’s 33-14 win over Bourgade.
“We were a little sluggish last week,” Morgan said. “We needed to go to our strength, which is the running game.”
Valley Christian at Northwest Christian
Address: 16401 N. 43rd Ave., Phoenix
Records: Valley Christian 3-3, 2-1; Northwest Christian 3-3, 2-2
Last year’s meeting: Valley Christian 38, Northwest Christian 10
