For the first time since 2021, the Audubon Wheelers Football Team is back in the quarterfinals.  The Wheelers are 10-0 after their second consecutive undefeated regular season and two convincing playoff wins. However, their quarterfinal opponent might be their toughest challenge yet. In a rematch of the 2022 first round, Audubon will face a fellow undefeated team in Remsen St. Mary’s. In a clash of two top teams with a trip to the UNI Dome on the line, the stakes are a little higher than last time. Head Coach Sean Birks says he and his team are excited to return to the quarterfinal.

After a convincing 38-7 win over East Mills, the Wheelers followed it up with an arguably more impressive 42-18 second-round win over Woodbine. The offense was hot right from the start, scoring on the first four drives. The ground game was effective, collecting 231 yards and three touchdowns, with quarterback Carson Wessel earning 145 of those yards. The defense was also lights out, as Aaron Olsen and the defense forced four interceptions, while the special teams unit forced two more. It was a game Audubon controlled for much of the contest. Birks credited his team’s start as a main factor in gaining control of the game.

Although happy with the performance against Woodbine, there is always room for improvement. Birks knows they will have to step things up against the Hawks.

Standing in the way of a trip to the UNI Dome is a Remsen St. Mary’s team that is accustomed to winning. Winning a championship just two seasons ago they are back and looking to once again reach the pinnacle of Iowa 8-man football. Their offense, led by Landon Waldschmitt, is a physical one that produces well over 40 points per game. Birks says that limiting their production and forcing them into uncomfortable down and distances will be key.

The Hawks also bring one of the better 8-man defenses to the table as well. Led by Braxton Kneip and his 54 tackles, they have allowed more than 12 points just once. The key to putting up points against this tough defense: eliminating negative plays

You can catch all the action on KJAN starting at 6 pm Thursday.