A look ahead: Steers Homecoming versus Springtown

Anyone expecting an easy game for homecoming will be disappointed when Springtown visits the Steers on Sept. 27. The defensive line will face a tough test as the Porcupines will be led by running back Cameron Rickett. The senior running back is only listed at 5-8, but weighs 205 pounds and will not be easy to take down. He can break free for big runs and has runs for 45 and 85 yards this season.

Although he does not see many passes, he did catch two passes for two touchdowns and 87 yards in their season opener, a 23-7 win over Arlington Heights. Through the first month of the season, Rickett is averaging 135.8 yards per game, 11.1 yards per carry and has 15 rushing touchdowns. He has excellent field vision and can read blocks. When he is downfield, Rickett has the agility to stop on a dime and let a would-be tacklers dive past. The Steers had issues with tackling against Decatur last week and will be in for a long night if they do not clean that up.

With all the skill that Rickett brings to the game, the defense will not want to forget about 6-4 junior quarterback Camden Chesney. His stats may not be as flashy as Rickett’s, but he moves the ball well. The one thing the Steers defense will want to try to take advantage of is Chesney’s low completion percentage, which hovers around .500.

That said, when Chesney connects with his receivers, the ball goes downfield at a quick pace. He averages 17.6 yards per completion this season. He protects the ball as well, only throwing two interceptions. He will also spread the ball around when he does pass. In the Porcupine’s 43-17 win against Kennedale last week, Chesney threw completions to five different receivers and touchdowns to three. Five receivers have gains of more than 15 yards this season.

For the rest of the story, see the Wednesday, Sept. 25 edition of The Graham Leader.