Game preview: Yukon at Mustang
Quarterback Corben Jones will lead Yukon into hostile territory against rival Mustang Friday night.
A year ago at this time, when Yukon hosted Mustang in one of the final games at the old Miller Pride Stadium, an overflow crowd surrounded the field and brought a playoff atmosphere to a Week 1 ballgame.
I expect a similar feeling tonight at Bronco Stadium — the first game against Yukon since the new bleachers were built last year. A Mustang administrator said they expect around 13,000 fans for Canadian County Bedlam tonight, and I don’t doubt it. It’s a huge game between two schools that continue to grow in size and football prowess.
What to watch for: Mustang
Keep an eye on the offensive line. That group will be the biggest key to Mustang’s success, not only against Yukon, but all season. If they can protect QB Brandon Taylor, the Mustang offense will move up and down the field the way it has been accustomed to the last few years. But if Taylor spends too much time on the seat of his pants, it could be a long night for Bronco followers.
Defensively, Mustang has some experience, and the secondary must avoid mistakes. Keeping the Millers’ unproven run game in check will be a big help.
What to watch for: Yukon
This is purely speculation on my part, but I wonder if QB Corben Jones will go back to running more, like he did as a sophomore? Last year, he was able to get rid of the ball quickly to one of his deep, talented receiving corps. He has a lot of new guys at receiver this year, and a new running back as well. So I’m curious to see just how often he tucks it and takes off.
One area to keep an eye on will be Yukon’s cornerbacks. Both are new starters, and there’s no tougher first test than Mustang. Even though the Broncos are sending out a new crop of receivers, the offense and the routes are tough to keep up with, and Taylor can pick a secondary apart if given the time.
The Pick: Yukon 30, Mustang 20. This will be my third straight year covering Canadian County Bedlam, and I haven’t seen a bad one yet. Don’t expect to see one tonight, either. I think either of these teams could be ready to make a run at their respective district titles, and winning this game would be an early boost of confidence to help get that done.
– Scott Wright, swright@opubco.com
Twitter: @ScottWrightOK
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