Varsity football will face off against the Glen Allen Jaguars in the Region 5C quarterfinals at F.W. Poates stadium on Nov. 10.  The sixth-ranked Trojans (9-1) secured the second-seed in the region after defeating James River at home 30-14 in the annual Coal Bowl on Nov. 4.  Glen Allen (5-5) enters the contest as the seventh-seed, backing into the playoffs following a loss to Douglas Freeman at home, 24-21, and going 2-4 in its final six games of the season.

Both teams made the playoffs for the second consecutive year and are looking to improve on last year’s finish.  The Trojans defeated Mills Down in last year’s regional quarterfinal, but lost in the semifinal round to Hermitage who defeated Glen Allen in opening round.

For the Trojans, establishing the running game led by senior Ashby Berry and capitalizing on scoring in the red zone will be a key to playoff success.  They also hope to eliminate careless mistakes that nearly let James River back into the game during the third quarter.

“We worked well offensively and ran the ball well,” Coach Matt Hutchings said.  “We were able to overcome two turnovers and still win the football game.  In practice we’ve focused on cleaning up the mistakes from last week and focusing on what Glen Allen brings. We haven’t played them in 2 years so it will be a new experience for a lot of players.”

Glen Allen’s record does not reflect its strength as an opponent.  Four of its six games were decided by the final possession.  Colonial district opponents and playoff teams, Hermitage and Douglas Freeman both needed game-winning drives to take down the Jaguars.  The Trojans know a first-round win is not guaranteed.

“They seem to be ready for  the challenge,” Hutchings said.  “After last years playoff win and then losing in the regional semifinal, they are hungry to get back and prove themselves. It’s a really special group of young men this year.”