Prep Grid Preview ... Week 10: 'Hounds only team with playoff hopes

The Greyhounds had never gone fewer than four years between playoff appearances, but have a chance to get there in back-to-back seasons Friday during its Class 1, District 8 finale at Sedalia.

"We can't overlook Sacred Heart, but we're in a position to ... be in the playoffs Wednesday," noted Sweet Springs head coach Tim Smith.

The 'Hounds (4-5, 1-1 District 8) played effectively last week during a 28-6 loss to No. 5 Tipton, stopping themselves with an uncharacteristic five turnovers.

"Ever since the Santa Fe game, we've played pretty well," said Smith, whose squad had won three of four before meeting the Cardinals. "Overall, we're about where I thought we'd be at this point."

This despite an injury to all-state senior Zach Thomas, who lasted only one full game after switching from guard to fullback. However, Thomas is now back and joins senior Tyler Dohrman as inside running threats -- with senior Tyler Armstrong and junior David Hall threats on the outside.

"We're going to attack them up the middle, then try to get out on the edges," Smith acknowledged his game plan against the Gremlins.

Whether Sacred Heart (0-8, 0-2) can stop the 'Hounds is questionable. In their second year of existence, the Gremlins have battled a small roster which has been down to 13 players -- resulting in three forfeits, including the district contest against Tipton -- and isn't loaded with experience.

"They play pretty hard," Smith said. "I think their coach is getting the most out of what he has."

Nonetheless, overcoming the gap demonstrated by the 'Hounds' 58-0 victory a year ago will be difficult for Sacred Heart, still seeking the program's first win. Sweet Springs is in an enviable position, though, since even a loss to the Gremlins wouldn't knock them out of the post-season unless Northwest upsets the undefeated Cardinals.

Santa Fe and Slater close out their seasons Friday, with no chance playing on.

The Chiefs at least get to play at home against I-70 Conference rival St. Paul, both teams with two losses in Class 1, District 10.

At stake is bragging rights, and avoiding sharing the league cellar with Crest Ridge. Santa Fe (2-7, 1-5 I-70, 0-2 District 10) has lost three straight, two by shutout.

So have the Saints (3-6, 1-5, 0-2), although they have scored six points in each game. The Chiefs pulled out an 18-13 decision last year.

With wins already for Class 1, District 9 playoff contenders Fayette and Westran, Lewis and Clark Conference runner up Salisbury (6-3, 3-1 L&C, 2-0 District 9) is seeking its sixth straight win Friday when it hosts the Wildcats.

Slater (2-7, 0-4, 0-2) has lost five in a row, but edged the Panthers, 22-20, two years ago. That was only one of the two times Salisbury has missed the playoffs since 1995.

The good news for both the Chiefs and 'Cats is that they only have five seniors between them, so there is the chance to improve next season. With 10 upperclassmen, the 'Hounds have to seize the moment, so long as they take care of business against Sacred Heart.

"We've been preaching that to our seniors," Smith remarked. "You don't want Friday to be your last game, without a shot at making the playoffs."