By Blake Chadwick

The game of the week, Bishop Carroll at Wichita Northwest, lived up to the hype. While a high-octane offense was on display in the 2018 playoff game that Northwest won 84-67, in Friday’s season opener, it was all about defense. 

There was takeaway after takeaway after takeaway.

Northwest won 21-17 and is 1-0.

After an early safety the Grizzlies felt in control. But Northwest trailed 10-8 after missing one opportunity after another. In the third, the offense picked up as both teams got on the board. 

Northwest senior Zion Jones, who had a key early turnover, proved why he is considered one of the Wichita area’s best receivers. He had two touchdowns, including the go-ahead touchdown on a jump ball play. He ripped the ball away from the defender.

“It’s big,” Jones said of the win. “Now we are fighting for home field advantage all playoffs, and it’s big because we beat Bishop Carroll.” 

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In other games around the area, Maize trounced Valley Center 47-0. Derby got five touchdowns from senior quarterback Grant Adler, while senior running back Tre Washington had four, including three receiving TDs. Derby beat Garden City 48-19. 

Maize South trailed Heights 24-13 but won 40-24.

Eisenhower edged Salina Central 21-14, and Andover Central beat Augusta 35-7. 

Andale beat Mulvane 43-7 as Easton Hunter threw for 115 yards and had 71 rushing yards. Gabe Ungles added 112 rushing yards, while Mac Brand had 73 and Eli Rowland had 81.

Wichita Collegiate beat Wellington 28-7 in coach Troy Black’s debut.

Sedgwick shut out Remington 49-0, while Halstead did the same to Nickerson. 

Wichita West beat Hutchinson 38-14, and McPherson beat Salina South 29-17.

Conway Springs held Trinity Academy to minus-20 rushing yards in a 49-6. Jack Ebenkamp led Conway with 99 rushing yards, while Jonathan Wright and Collin Koester each had 77 rushing yards.

Garden Plain beat Cheney 35-19.

Andover Central beat Augusta 35-7.

On Thursday, Goddard beat East 34-14.