UPDATE: Waukee Falls to Sioux City East, 24-6

A 26-0 shutout of the Ames Little Cyclones last Friday provided the Waukee football team with the confidence players needed going into the playoffs.

The winning streak was short-lived as the Warriors fell to Sioux City East tonight, 24-6.

"To get back on your feet after a real tough loss is crucial," said Carlson. "It was nice to have the luxury of having another opportunity to play before the playoffs came about. So, yeah, we gained some confidence from that, and you can see that from the kids at practice."

The Warriors played the same Sioux City East team that they defeated once already this season, a 28-21 result in week two. 

The two teams are about as familiar with each other as they possibly can be. They've played each other every season since Waukee's inclusion in class 4A in 2006, with Waukee holding a 5-1 record in the series. 

Even with the past and recent advantages the Warriors have had against the Crusaders, Carlson says all history can be disregarded.

"It was early in the season for both teams," said Carlson. "I think we're a much different team, and I know they are. It was two months ago when we beat them, so I think you can really throw out the results of that game. I don't think that means a whole heak of a lot at this stage of the season."

One glaring difference between this game and the first matchup is that the Crusaders will have starting quarterback Alex Imming on the field. The senior did not play in the week two matchup, but scorched the Warriors for six touchdowns last season as a junior.

Imming and Waukee quarterback Cole Pederson both put up remarkable numbers as dual-threat quarterbacks this season. Pederson passed for 907 yards and ran for 1,025 more, and totaled 21 touchdowns. Imming passed for 1,275 yards and ran for 843 yards; he totaled 23 touchdowns.

"We know who he is, and anybody who plays them better know who he is because he's a tremendous player," said Carlson of the 200-pound Imming. "You got to get a lot of guys around him to corral him, and he throws the ball real well, too. We'll have our hands full defensively against these guys."

Imming and the Crusaders will make their second trip to Waukee after winning four of their last five contests. The Warriors are even hotter, winning five of their last six.

Something's got to give tonight at Waukee Stadium. Carlson hopes the ride can continue for his boys.

"As you look back in retrospect after nine games, I think we're relatively pleased where we're at right now and moving forward into the playoffs," said Carlson. "Hopefully we're not done making noise just yet. We're hoping to accomplish a few more things."

Kickoff is tonight at Waukee Stadium at 7 p.m.