Coalers set to 'duke' it out with Dixon

One team has averaged 48.2 points per game while allowing just 10.1. The other has averaged 42.2 while giving up just 9.1.
Sounds like quite the recipe for a quarterfinal clash.
The 10-1 Dixon Dukes will head to Coal City for Saturday's Class 4A battle against the 9-2 Coalers at 1 p.m.
Dixon plays in the very tough Big Northern conference where six of the 10 teams made the playoffs.
The Dukes had little trouble with Chicago Ag in the second round, scoring at least 50 points for the sixth time in 11 games (51-6).
The game will likely come down to which defense can stop the other's offense.
"Our motto is to be fast and physical, so we just have to go out there and execute," said Coal City lineman Emmett Easton.
"Nothing like playing in front of all of the Coaler fans that come out. We have only let up 13 points at home and don’t plan on letting up anymore."
Coaler coach Francis Loughran knows that at this time of year every play is magnified.
"In talking with the guys Monday, everything's kind of heightened at this point. We have to execute each play."
"Defensively, we have to show that we can stop the run. They're very good at both the run and the pass so we'll have our work cut out for us this week."
Playing at home is a huge plus for the Coalers who gave up their first points of the season (13) on the new turf in the opening round against Johnsburg.
"These guys love playing at home. We've had great crowds and support from the community like always."
The winner of this game will face either 12th seeded Burbank (St Laurence) or ninth seeded Chicago (DePaul) in the semifinals.
"We're definitely excited after a win like that but not content with where we are and want to keep our season alive as long as possible. The team is feeling good and wants to stay hot," said all-time leading rusher Landin Benson who has accounted for 10 touchdowns the last two weeks.
Containing Benson figures to be job one for the Dukes, but quarterback Zander Meents is a very capable passer and has a variety of weapons in Gabe McHugh, Gavin Berger, Logan Natyshok, Dylan Young, Benson, etc.
"Benson is always reliable. He will get his carries, but Meents does a great job getting the ball out to different guys," said Loughran.