Clarion-Goldfield-Dows opened their 2023 season with a big win in the annual Wright County Rivalry, blowing out Eagle Grove 49-6, thanks in large part to 5 recovered fumbles and 2 scoop and scores. The Cowboys week 2 opponents are a step up in a 3A playoff team from a season ago in the Hampton-Dumont-CAL Bulldogs. Clarion leads the all-time series 56-41-8, with the first meeting dating back to 1902, but CGD has not beaten HD-CAL since 2017.
Hampton-Dumont-CAL took home a 42-20 win over Iowa Falls-Alden in their season opener, but the game was tied at 18-18 after 3 quarters, before a 26-point outburst in the 4th ensured the Bulldog victory. Senior quarterback Gavin Meader’s stats did not pop off the statsheet, but 9-for-17 passing for 95 yards and 3 touchdowns were enough to get the job done. Top receiver Tucker Heeren was the recipient of 2 of those touchdown passes, as the 6-3 senior poses at tough threat on the outside. Senior running back Brody Walton put together a productive night as well, rushing for 139 yards and 2 touchdowns. Scott Harr caught a touchdown pass from his tight end spot, and helps anchor a veteran offensive line for the Bulldogs.
Defensively, it begins up front with the dynamic duo of Harr and Carter Heilskov on the defensive line, as the two combine for 2 TFL and a sack against Iowa Falls-Alden. In the back seven, the Bulldogs rotate a number of linebackers and defensive backs, but all were able to produce against the Cadets. Defensive back Gavin Meader led the team with 7 tackles in the win, while linebacker Aiden Polk recorded an interception. Linebacker Karter Janssen also racked up a pair of TFL’s, as well as defensive lineman Cael Burmester.
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows had a quiet night offensively a week ago, thanks in part to the work of their defense forcing 5 Eagle Grove turnovers. Diego Gonzalez had 2 touchdown runs while rushing for 79 yards, while Selvin Gonzales had 2 rushing touchdowns as well. Bryce Lindaman was the star of the night against Eagle Grove, recording 4.5 tackles, a TFL and 2 fumble recoveries, one of which was run back 45 yards for a touchdown.
Clarion-Goldfield-Dows and Hampton-Dumont-CAL will kickoff on Friday night at 7 PM at the Clarion Football Stadium at CGD Middle School.