The Little Hawks kept it rolling last Friday against Davenport North, moving their record to 5-2 and climbing up in the 5A rankings. Running back Gabe Egeland carried the load last week in the absence of City’s top rusher Dawson Kahl. Egeland did not disappoint, finding the end zone five times and rushing for 272 yards. “It was really great to get the opportunity to go out there and show what I can do.” Egeland said about his start.

Looking ahead, City faces number 6 ranked Linn-Mar (Bound). This will be a massive matchup for both teams, as City is ranked 7th according to the RPI playoff system going into this game and needs to stay there if they want to play a playoff game at Bates Field.

The key to this game will most likely be who wins in the trenches, as Linn-Mar comes into this game with a top-rushing attack. Senior running back Dylan Muszynski has 1122 yards on the ground to go along with 19 touchdowns. As for City, sophomore running back Dawson Kahl returns this week to make a strong rushing duo in him and Egeland.

Maybe more important than who’s got the ball is who blocks for them. Senior offensive tackle Tyler Rindles said, “We have four seniors on this line, and this is the year we have been working for.” This will be a tough matchup for Rindles and the Little Hawks though, as Linn-Mar leads the state in least points allowed.

As mentioned earlier, this game will have a big impact on the playoff seedings. If the Little Hawks get a win, they could potentially host their first playoff game, something they haven’t done since 2021. If the Lions win, they will continue to climb the ranks and secure a home playoff game.