Milano Eagles (0-3) @ Iola Bulldogs (2-1)

Last Meeting: 2017:

Milano 28, Iola 7;

Series Record: Iola leads the series 19-8-1. 2017: Milano 28, Iola 7; 2016: Iola 34, Milano 7; 2015: Iola 35, Milano 8; 2014: Iola 26, Milano 0; 2013: Milano 27, Iola 14; 2012: Milano 35, Iola 8; 2011: Milano 31, Iola 16; 2010: Milano 27, Iola 8;

Last Week: Bremond 44, Milano 6; Anderson-Shiro 26, Iola 0;

2019: Milano- VS Grapeland (L) 44-9; AT Burton (L) 28-7; VS Bremond (L) 44-6; Iola- AT Somerville (W) 20-12; VS Normangee (W) 32-29; AT Anderson-Shiro (L) 26-0;

The Matchup:

Milano hasn’t found the win column but has faced a tough non district schedule so far including a loss to Bremond that is ranked in the top 10. The lopsided losses aren’t indicative of who this team is. They have a solid running attack that will flourish as the season continues.

Iola had a minor setback against a great defense in their rivalry loss to Anderson-Shiro. Despite that lone loss on the season, the Bulldogs have an offense that can move the ball through the air or on the ground. Blake Driver has operated the offense efficiently until last week throwing the ball and as a running threat.

Keys to Victory: Iola

has shown grit winning a pair of tough matchups. They can’t dwell on the rivalry loss last week and must allow Driver to get back in the “driver’s seat” and lead the Bulldogs to victory. This will be a great opportunity to see how Iola bounces back after a loss under head coach Kerry Bamburg.

Milano can’t dwell on the past but must learn from it. They have a solid game plan, but they have just not been able to execute against powerhouse teams early on. If the Eagles can establish a running attack, they have a chance to notch their first win.