Undefeated Puyallup vs. undefeated Sumner, under the lights at Sunset Chev Stadium tonight at 7 p.m. This isn’t just another Friday night game, folks. We’re talking about a rivalry that’s been cooking since last fall, especially after that brutal 42-35 loss Puyallup suffered to Sumner in the Class 4A state tournament semifinals. That was the Vikings’ only loss in 2025, and you *know* that score has been burned into their scoreboard at Sparks Stadium all offseason.
The State Semifinal Rematch We’ve Been Waiting For
Last year was a wild ride for both these teams. Sumner, fueled by the heroics of their state player of the year, running back Lance McGee, went on to beat Lake Stevens for the 4A state championship. McGee’s tearing it up at WSU now, but his legend still hangs over this matchup. What makes that state semi-final win even more impressive for Sumner? Puyallup actually steamrolled them 58-22 during their 2025 regular season meeting. Talk about a team that found another gear when it mattered most. Tonight is about settling that score, literally.
New Faces, Same High Stakes: Who Comes Out on Top?
So, what are we seeing from these squads this year? Sumner might not have Lance McGee, but they’re still running Keith Ross’ scheme with that signature tough offensive line. Senior Santos Hernandez-Ruiz has stepped up big time, churning out 130 yards per game. The Spartans are proving they’re more than just one player. Puyallup, on the other hand, is all about that air game. Senior quarterback Noah Smith is absolutely slinging it, torching defenses for 1,656 yards and 29 touchdowns, averaging a mind-boggling 276 passing yards per game. His go-to guys, Boise State commit J’Isaiah Mitchell (560 yards, 10 TDs) and senior Luke Parker (539 yards, 14 TDs), are making highlight reels every week. It’s a classic clash of run vs. pass, undefeated vs. undefeated. The News Tribune is picking Puyallup to take it 35-21, but in a rivalry game this heated, anything can happen.
The action isn’t stopping there either. We’ve got a full slate of South Sound games to keep an eye on this weekend. Tonight, Friday, October 16, also sees big matchups like Graham-Kapowsin over Yelm, Curtis beating South Kitsap, and Lakes taking Timberline. Looking ahead to Saturday, Kentwood is set to beat Mount Rainier. Get ready for some serious football, because Week 7 is officially here!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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