CHAFFEE HOPES TO END SEASON STRONG

No playoff hopes rest on the game. No conference title or even traditional rivalry.

But Chaffee's matchup with Ste. Genevieve Valle tonight gives the improving Red Devils a chance to play one of the state's most storied programs at a time when they have a better chance to compete.

Kickoff is at 7:30 at Chaffee.

"I don't know if we've ever beaten Valle," Chaffee coach Brian Horrell said. "Back when we made the schedule, we could have left this week open, but playing Valle gives our kids a chance to play a team with a great tradition, great coaching and a great following. It's a good game to end on."

Valle has not won a district in four years and has been eliminated this year.

Chaffee (1-8) wrapped up district play last Friday with a 32-14 win over Hayti. It was the Red Devils' first win in a season which included close losses to Grandview (14-13) and East Prairie (27-14).

St. Vincent, which beat the Red Devils 41-12, won the Class 1A District.

"I'm a little disappointed, because I thought we should have won three or four games this year," Horrell said. "(But) if I had to grade the program, I'd say we've steadily improved... We've just lacked the ability to make the big play."

Two of Chaffee's starters will not play due to injuries: center/defensive lineman Jeremy Vandeven tore his anterior cruciate ligament last week. Billy Van Pelt, a tight end/defensive end, is out with a bad shoulder.

Valle, which runs out of a pro-set and equally mixes a power running game with the pass, is also banged up.