High school football: Valle Catholic overwhelms Kennett

STE. GENEVIEVE — There’s perhaps no better opponent to prepare your team for the playoffs than Valle Catholic.

That’s what Kennett learned Friday at Father John Dempsey Field as the Warriors’ explosive offense and stout defense both were on display.

For the second straight week, Kennett’s offense was shut out in the first half.

Kevin Thompson (66) and Carter Shewmaker (number hidden) combine to make a tackle during the first quarter of a football game versus Valle Catholic dated Friday, Oct. 20, 2023, in Ste. Genevieve. (Photo by Eric Viccaro, staff)

However, in the second half, sprung by a blocked punt — and a reception from Jack Morrison — Kennett scored in the closing moments of the third quarter.

Kennett’s Tyquavious (D.J.) Jones bounced off left tackle on a short TD run, and Valle Catholic wound up with a 56-7 victory on the Warriors’ Senior Night.

By virtue of their loss, the Indians will open the Class 3 District 1 playoffs on Friday, Oct. 27, with Herculaneum on the road.

Kennett fell to 4-5 with the loss — and the Indians’ nine-year streak of winning records is in serious jeopardy.

Crystal City and Herculaneum (4-5) were locked in an offensive struggle, scoreless through the first three quarters.

The Blackcats defeated Crystal City 6-0 with 1.6 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter as Keaton Reeves passed to Clark Struckoff for a TD.

Valle Catholic’s Alex Viox featured early in the game, and this marked the second straight season he gained triple-digit all-purpose yards versus Kennett.

The Warriors will have a first-round bye in the Class 2 District 1 tournament by virtue of having the most playoff system points.

For the Malden-Dexter game recap, please log onto semoball.com for a story written from Tom Davis.