Tonight, the 6-1 Hamilton Southeastern Royals welcome the 4-3 Franklin Central Flashes to Royal Field. Kickoff is set for 7:00 pm, and those supporting the Royals should wear pink gear as the Royals strive to raise awareness for breast cancer. The game marks the last home game of the season for the Royals. Hamilton Southeastern enters this game ranked sixth in the state, according to MaxPreps. Franklin Central is slotted at 26^th.

In a game between two above .500 teams, it should be competitive. The Royals are 3-1 at home on the year, while the Flashes are 2-2 on the road. Hamilton Southeastern’s home victories have come against Lawrence Central, Avon, and Noblesville. Franklin Central’s two road wins have come against Perry Meridian (non-conference) and Avon.

The Royals, who rush for an average of 266.3 yards per game, will look to pound the rock and open holes for halfbacks Blaine Wertz and Owen Jones. Quarterback Sam Jacobs will look to continue his strong play, as his quarterback rating (QBR) now sits at 122.1 on the season. While the senior only passes for 60.6 yards per game, he adds another 63.6 yards per game on the ground, showcasing his dynamic playmaking ability. On the defensive side of the ball, HSE needs to apply pressure on freshman quarterback Nevan Tutterow. If the Royals’ front seven can break through the line of scrimmage early and force Tutterow outside the pocket, there is a chance that a Royal defensive back can come away with an interception.

For Franklin Central, the result will come down to game-control and time-of-possession. They know the Royals want to run the ball, so look for the Flashes to try to grab an early lead and take control of the clock. They will need their halfbacks to keep pace with the 216.7 rushing yards per game they average on the season, specifically senior Aataeveon Jordan. Jordan has already eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards this season, averaging 143 per game. Additionally, quarterback Nevan Tutterow will be looking to reach 1,000 passing yards in this one, as he currently sits at 944.

It should be a great game, and for those that cannot be in attendance to support the Royals, be sure to tune in to the live broadcast of tomorrow’s game, streaming right here on HSENews.com.