HUMBOLDT — A rematch of sorts is in store for Humboldt High’s Cubs tonight when they open the Class 3A football playoffs against Central Heights, although many key characters have changed.
Humboldt thumped the visiting Vikings, 48-6, in the 2012 bi-district playoffs.
And while Humboldt lost several standouts to its vaunted passing attack from last season due to graduation, the Cubs still have plenty of weapons in their arsenal.
Humboldt (7-2) is riding a three-game winning streak into the playoffs.
The Cubs are led by senior quarterback Alex Murrow, who’s thrown for 1,379 yards with 15 touchdowns compared to only eight interceptions.
His most popular target has been classmate Hunter Murrow, who averages more than 22 yards per catch on 29 receptions. He’s hauled in eight touchdown passes.
The Cubs also have a pair of talented performers in the backfield.
Caleb Vanetta has rushed for 735 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 6.5 yards per carry. Jacob Carpenter has rushed for 388 yards.
Central Heights, meanwhile, is keyed by its ground game.
The fullback-running back tandem of Tristan Davis and Jacob Pryor do much of the leg work, while quarterback Jordan Horstick — he was a receiver last year — thrives with a short passing game, finding tight end Tanner Erhart and receivers Chase Brown and Gavin Holler.
Of note, Central Heights ended Iola High’s eight-game Pioneer League winning streak Oct. 4 with a 28-7 victory.
Tonight’s game will kick off at 7 o’clock at the Humboldt Sports Complex.
Cubs host Central Heights
