Location: Lisbon

Date: August 30, 2013

Time: 7:00pm CDT

Game Notes

Lisbon returns a majority of its players from last season, including dual-threat QB Logan Rickard. He led the Lions is both passing and rushing last season, and was a 2nd team all-state LB on defense. His top targets return as well (Tyler Svatosch and Tanner Sackett-Hopkins). Keep an eye on big Keegan Tritle on the OL, he has started on the OL for the Lions since he stepped into the HS program....West Branch lost pretty much all of its top statistical peformers on offense, but returns, arguably, its best defensive player in Michael Gould. He will also take over as the top ball carrier on offense. Senior Tyler Donovan looks to play a more significant role for the Bears. West Branch will start just 4 seniors, so expect a few growing pains here and there. Butch Pedersen enters the game ranked 17th on the all-time wins list in Iowa (254).

Team Records & Rankings

Lisbon enters the season as a consensus Top 5 team in Class A (#3 by CRGazette, #5 by Des Moines Register). West Branch enters the season unranked in the CRGazette, but #10 in the DSM Register. This marks the first time since the 2003 season the Bears have not been preseason top 10 in both publications.

Last Meeting

The Bears exacted a bit of revenge from an 18-8 road loss in 2011 by winning 28-7 on opening night of the 2012 season. Both teams lost in the second round of the 2012 IAHSAA playoffs.

Media & Broadcast Coverage

As of Thursday, 8/29, no radio coverage has been announced. KCRG and KGAN are both scheduled to be on the sidelines filming highlights for their 10:00 news (KCRG for Friday Night Lights). The Cedar Rapids Gazette will be covering the game for print media.