Week 1 football preview: Ridgefield vs. Fort Vancouver

When, where: 5 p.m. Friday at Kiggins Bowl

Last meeting: Ridgefield won 24-23 at Ridgefield in Week 1 of 2010.

Ridgefield: Ridgefield returned to the playoffs after going 7-2 in the regular season. … A late missed field goal kept the Spudders from reaching state, losing to Onalaska 18-16 in the district playoff. … Spudders have good depth up front, which could help make up for a lack of experience in the offensive backfield. … Former assistant Matt Martin returns as head coach.

Fort Vancouver: The Trappers also have a new head coach: Eric Ollikainen, who will bring a new offense to Fort. … Fort will look to pass more this season, with running back Jordan Vela moving to WR. … Abdul Conteh will be the primary runner in the backfield, as Fort turns to junior Jacob Austin at QB. … Fort came very close to opening last season 3-0, but the Trappers struggled down the stretch, losing their final six games. … Kiggins Bowl’s field will be dedication to former Fort coach Gary Boggs at halftime. Boggs died of cancer last spring.

Columbian’s pick: Ridgefield.

Fans’ pick: Fort Vancouver.

To vote on winners of each week’s games, go to The Columbian prep sports Facebook page at www.facebook.com/360preps.

>

Scroll to top