Football Game Preview: Aspen Skiers vs. Basalt Longhorns + Official Tickets

Aspen hasn't had much luck against Basalt recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Skiers will look to defend their home field against the Longhorns at 7:00 p.m. Aspen has given up an average of 34 points per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.

On Friday, Aspen was beaten by Coal Ridge 55-6. The contest marked the Skiers' lowest-scoring game so far this season.

Meanwhile, winning is always nice, but doing so behind a season-high score is even better (just ask Basalt). They blew past Moffat County 47-6 last Friday. The victory was nothing new for the Longhorns as they're now sitting on three straight.

Aspen better keep an eye on Will Tarallo. He was instrumental in Basalt's win, rushing for 182 yards and five TDs while picking up 10.7 yards per carry. Thanks to that big game, Tarallo is now up to 13 rushing touchdowns on the season. Another player making a difference was Dylan Johnston, who gained 106 total yards and a touchdown.

Wins are hard to come by when you can't run the rock, something Basalt proved: they limited Moffat County to a paltry 3.5 yards per carry. While five picked up at least two total tackles, Tarallo stood above the rest. He rushed for 182 yards and five scores while picking up 10.7 yards per carry. Basalt's run defense has been on the up-and-up: they allowed 3.16 yards per carry earlier this season, but they've only allowed 8.23 on average over their last five games.

Aspen's defeat dropped their record down to 2-5. As for Basalt, their win bumped their record up to 5-3.

Friday's matchup might be decided on the ground. Aspen has been excellent on the ground this season, having averaged 168 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Basalt struggles in that department as they've been averaging an even more impressive 156.4 rushing yards. There's a good chance Friday's contest turns into a tough fight on the ground.

Aspen lost to Basalt at home by a decisive 35-21 margin in their previous matchup back in November of 2024. Thankfully for the Skiers, Will Daniel (who rushed for 138 yards and one touchdown, and also picked up 112 receiving yards and one TD) won't be suiting up this time. Will that be enough to change the final result? Check MaxPreps.com after the match to find out.