Heading into the final game of the regular season, Columbia Falls is in the driver’s seat in Northwestern A. The Wildcats are 4-3 overall, but more importantly they’re 3-0 in the conference. Polson and Libby are right behind them at 2-1 in league play. Libby is 4-4 overall and Polson is 6-1, with its only loss coming to Columbia Falls.
The driving force behind Columbia Falls’ offense this season has been Nate Thompson, who is chasing the all-time school rushing record. But in its 51-0 victory over Whitefish on Oct. 15, quarterback Austin Barth showed opponents that they need to worry about the passing game too. Barth threw six touchdowns.
The Wildcats finish their season at home against Ronan on Oct. 22. Ronan is 4-4 (1-2). With a win, Columbia Falls would be guaranteed a first-round bye at the Class A state tournament, which begins on Oct. 30 and is held each weekend until the championship game on Nov. 20.
Below are the Northwestern A standings with one game remaining. The top three teams earn a trip to state. Whitefish’s season is done.
Columbia Falls – 4-3; 3-0
Polson – 6-1; 2-1
Libby – 4-4; 2-1
Ronan – 4-4; 1-2
Whitefish – 1-7; 0-4