Patriots will host Bluffton for homecoming

Jay County Patriots

Portland, 1-3, (0-2 ACAC) 

Coach: Eddie Fields, first year (fifth overall)

Conference: Allen County

Last week vs. Adams Central: The Patriots held the Jets scoreless through the first quarter, but gave up three touchdowns in the second quarter in the 40-0 defeat. Jay County never got the ball moving as they finished with 162 yards on 47 plays, while ACHS only needed 35 plays to garner 362 yards and six touchdowns.

Season leaders: Passing — Nick Laux – 28-of-51 for 360 yards and four touchdowns. Rushing — Leighton Brown – 40 carries for 203 yards and two touchdowns. Receiving — Brady Jetmore – nine catches for 187 yards and two touchdowns.

Bluffton Tigers

Bluffton, 4-0, (2-0 ACAC)

Coach: Brent Kunkel, 9th year

Conference: Allen County

Last week at Woodlan: The Tigers had a big second quarter in their 42-7 victory over the Warriors. Star quarterback Axton Beste had complete control of the game, slinging four touchdowns on 13-of-15 throwing with 203 yards. He also ran in his own score.

Season leaders: Passing — Axton Beste – 48-of-68 for 697 yards and 13 touchdowns. Rushing — Cooper Craig – 34 carries for 274 yards and two touchdowns. Receiving — Aaron Streveler – 15 catches for 264 yards and eight touchdowns. Defense — Griffin Morgan – 48 tackles and two interceptions.

Last season: the Patriots scored a touchdown in the final eight minutes to give them a chance against the Class 2A No. 9 Tigers, but they couldn’t force a 3-and-out to get a final chance and gave up a 58-yard touchdown to be put out of reach 34-25. Sean Bailey tossed two touchdowns and ran in one more to lead the Patriots’ offense. Bluffton had three scores in the air from Axton Beste and two more came from the ground.

Game notes: This is the 13th matchup between the Patriots and the Tigers. Adams Central has won the previous three games and just took a 7-6 advantage in the series over Jay County ... Bluffton has started the season 4-0 for the third consecutive season ... Jay County has a 38.15 Sagarin rating, which is 243rd overall and 51st in Class 3A. Bluffton’s 69.2 rating is 75th overall and 7th in Class 2A ... John Harrell projects that Jay County to lose 38-17.