The Dowagiac Chieftains have a lot of work to do before they hit the field Friday night against host Comstock.

This will be the final meeting during the regular season between the Chieftains and the Colts as Comstock moves to the Kalamazoo Valley Association beginning in 2014.

The Chieftains (1-0) are coming off a 32-14 win over Vicksburg in its season opener.

Dowagiac struggled to find its rhythm on offense, but played well defensively — forcing six turnovers.

Dowagiac coach Mike Stanger said his team needs to be more consistent on offense.

“We want to improve on our pass completion percentage and finish drives,” he said. “Defensively we played pretty well.”

Dowagiac rolled up 174 yards rushing against the Bulldogs, but were just 4-of-18 for 61 yards through the air.

The Chieftains also did not attempt an extra point kick. That will more than likely change this week.

“On special teams we are working with a new kicker,” Stanger said. “Our kicker for last week’s game was injured during the week and could not kick for Thursday’s game against Vicksburg.”

Dowagiac continues to use multiple running backs in its offense. Rolly Lucio led the way with 52 yards on 12 carries with a touchdown. In all, eight players carried the football for the Chieftains.

Friday night’s kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

 

Mendon at Cassopolis

The Rangers and the Hornets usually only meet in the post season.

But that all changes Friday night when Mendon travels to Cassopolis for a non-league contest. This will be the first of many regular season meetings between the two schools as in 2014 they will both be members of the Berrien-Cass-St. Joseph (BCS) Conference.

The Rangers are coming off an impressive 39-0 win over New Buffalo.

The Hornets blanked Fowler 40-0 in their season opener.

Cassopolis rolled up 276 yards on the ground against the Bison, led by Niles transfer Travis Edwards, who rushed for 129 yards and two scores.

The Rangers set the tone early with special teams as freshman Marquise Curtis returned the opening kickoff 87 yards for a score.

Elijah Klepper led the Hornets on the ground with 90 yards on six carries and two touchdowns. Danny Cleveland added 75 yards on nine carries and a score.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.