Location: Little Rose Bowl

Date: September 26, 2019

Time: 6:00pm CDT

Game Notes

BELLEVUE has been one of the more high octane offenses in Class 1A over the past three seasons. They have had to replace almost every starter from their 2018 quarterfinal team. Statistically, they've done a pretty good job of doing just that. QB Max Jackson leads the Comet offense in both passing (442 yards, 3 TD) and rushing (317 yards, 3TD). His backfield mates, Ben Parker (316 rush yards, 2 TD) and Jacob Waller (143 rush yards, 2 TD), present even more of a challenge for defenses to worry about. Waller also leads the team in receiving yards (236 yards, 2 rec TD). His 20 receptions lead Class 1A, District 4. 

KEEP AN EYE ON: Jackson - he is going to be a part of every big play. A threat to break a long run or make your defense play if their not being honest.

WEST BRANCH faced a challenge in Week 4, but rose to it and succeeded. Although the Bears were outgained on offense 243-214, the scoreboard said Bears 24, Tigers 14 and that is all that matters. Gavin Hierseman continued his strong play under center, including two touchdown passes. Tanner Lukavsky hauled in a short pass and ran the rest of the way for a 70 yard opening score. Trey Eagle and Hierseman continued their strong connection with a 20 yard back shoulder beauty in the third quarter. Cael Fiderlein helped guide a very strong special teams performance by remaining perfect on the season for extra points. He added a very important 33 yard field goal to end the first half. The junior kicker has yet to miss on any scoring attempts. 

QUOTABLE: "We are going to continue to grow and get better. As coaches, we will continue to teach things the right way. The players are buying in and becoming more of a family each week. That's all you can ask." - Head Coach Butch Pedersen

Our weekly game preview is presented by EMS Detergent Services and Main Street Sweets.

Team Records & Rankings

Bellevue (1-3) is unranked. West Branch (4-0) is ranked 4th in Class 1A by the Cedar Rapids Gazette and DSM Register, and 5th in the AP poll.

Last Meeting

In 2018, the Comets defeated the Bears 28-20 at Bellevue. View more from that game.

Media & Broadcast Coverage

The BearCast will be on the play-by-play call. If you cannot be at the game, let us bring the game to you on your computer or smartphone. Head to the BearCast page here on the website, or, on iOS and Android devices, download the Mixlr app and search for "West Branch Football."

Tune in to the BearCast at 6:30 for the pregame where Steven Grace, Mike Quinlan, and Jerry Fleagle will be calling the game live, offering in-game analysis and halftime/postgame interviews.

For print media, the Cedar Rapids Gazette, the West Branch Times, YourPrepSports.com, and WestBranch.Football will be at the the game.