For the first time this season, McClave will have a chance to prove themselves in a conference matchup. They will challenge the Rocky Ford Meloneers at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday. McClave is currently enjoying a perfect season and no doubt wants to keep things rolling.
McClave is coming in fresh off a high-stakes matchup with another one of Colorado's top teams: Simla, who was ranked 15th at the time (McClave was ranked first). The Cardinals claimed a resounding 41-0 win over the Cubs. That looming 41-0 mark stands out as the most commanding margin for the Cardinals yet this season.
Ryan Steinbrunn
| 08/29/25 vs Elbert | 6 |
| 08/22/25 @ Sedgwick County | 9 |
| 09/05/25 vs Merino | 9 |
| 09/13/25 @ Simla | 11 |
McClave didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. The picks came courtesy of Mason Barr and Ryan Steinbrunn. Steinbrunn also set a new season-high mark in total tackles with 11. He got in on the action too, converting a pick into a touchdown.
Meanwhile, Rocky Ford fell victim to Merino and their airtight defense on Friday. They were beaten by the Rams 51-0. Having soared to a lofty 44 points in the game before, the Meloneers' shutout was a dramatic turnaround.
McClave's victory bumped their record up to 4-0. As for Rocky Ford, their defeat dropped their record down to 2-2.
Thursday's matchup might be decided on the ground. McClave has been unstoppable on the ground this season, having averaged 238 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Rocky Ford struggles in that department as they've been averaging 149 rushing yards. There's a good chance Thursday's contest turns into a tough fight on the ground.
Everything came up roses for McClave against Rocky Ford when the teams last played back in October of 2024, as the team secured a 71-22 win. In that game, the Cardinals amassed a halftime lead of 58-14, an impressive feat they'll look to repeat on Thursday.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
