A heartbreaking loss last week against Madison sent the Rangers home questioning what could’ve been. A missed extra point in week one and a field goal off the left upright last week lends credence to the idea that Smithson Valley may need a shakeup in the kicking game. Both kicks were potentially game-tying, and within a minute of the end of regulation. Senior Kicker #22 Mason Reid has converted all of his other attempts so far (1/2 FG, 4/5 XP). 

Schertz Clemens holds a 2-1 record through two weeks, with wins over Madison (23-20) and MacArthur (27-0), and a loss to Reagan (26-21). The Buffaloes’ average score of 23.7 is superior to the Rangers’ 18.5/game, though not significantly. The Rangers won’t continue being blanked in the first half, though dual-touchdown fourth quarters can’t keep them afloat for long, either.

Clemens’ claim to fame rests in sound fundamentals and a suffocating defensive line. Yes, a Week Three return touchdown (and another stopped just short) were instrumental in their success. But more important were the blockers, clearing a path for wide receive No. 1 Brian Quintero to stutter-step his way into the end zone.

The Buffaloes dominated the running game as well, with a mauling offensive line and patient runners who wait for the right holes. Run after run for Reagan were stopped before they ever began, and despite a weak passing attack, though the Rattlers definitely exposed Clemens’ secondary. The Buffaloes pounded the rock over and over, and though not as dominant, they are definitely similar in style and strengths to Madison, who prevailed over the Rangers this past week at Ranger Field.

“We have to do better,” senior running back Marc Franco said. “We’re working hard to redeem the loss last week… We’re really prepared.”