Football Game Preview: Crestview Bulldogs vs. Pace Patriots

Crestview is preparing for their first district matchup of the season on Friday. They will venture away from home to challenge the Pace Patriots at 7:30 p.m. Expect the scorekeeper to be kept busy: if their previous games are any indication, these teams will really light up the scoreboard.

Crestview will bounce into Friday's contest after beating Niceville, who they had gone 2-7 against in their nine prior meetings. The Bulldogs snuck past the Eagles with a 32-28 win two weeks ago.

Crestview's victory was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Zy Tassin, who rushed for 68 yards and two scores. Manwell Robinson helped out on the ground, rushing for 87 yards and a rushing touchdown.

They were just one part of a punishing run game: Crestview was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 303 rushing yards. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Niceville only rushed for 88.

Another reason for the win was Crestview's imposing defense, which managed to get into the backfield for three sacks. The team can thank three different players for their defensive prowess: Gabriel Gottlieb, Jordyn Stoudmire, and Dakota Jones, who each picked up one sack apiece.

Meanwhile, Pace never let their opponents score on Friday. They blew past Andalusia 35-0. The win was nothing new for the Patriots as they're now sitting on three straight.

Crestview's first victory this season bumped their record up to 1-2. As for Pace, their record is now 3-1.

Crestview took a serious blow against Pace in their previous matchup back in September of 2024, falling 56-28. Thankfully for the Bulldogs, Ben Tyner (who rushed for 51 yards and a pair of touchdowns, and also threw for 68 yards and one TD on only five passes) 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.