Jackson Holds off Powell, Maintains Postseason Hopes

The 3A showdown between Powell and Jackson went right down the wire with Jackson prevailing 17-14 on Friday night. Jackson played a sharp first half taking a 17-6 lead and then watched Powell get right back into the game thanks to a Nathan Feller touchdown grab and a successful 2-point try. Powell's Simon Shoopman blocked a Jackson punt with 4 seconds to go and ended up returning the loose ball. He was stopped at the 1-yard line in a dramatic finish to this contest.

In the 3A playoff picture, Powell has secured a spot and will be the #2 seed from the West if they beat Cody this week and Jackson defeats Star Valley. If the Panthers lose on Friday to Cody, they could end up at the #3 or the #4 seed depending on the outcomes of the Star Valley-Jackson game and the Green River-Evanston contest.

It's more complicated for Jackson who can be the #2 seed from the West if they beat Star Valley and Cody beats Powell. The Broncs will be the #3 seed if they win and Powell beats Cody. The other #3 seed scenario for Jackson is they could lose to Star Valley but Cody has to beat Powell and Green River beats Evanston. A #4 seed is in the mix too for the Broncs should they lose to Star Valley, Powell beats Cody and Evanston beats Green River.

After all that, there's a chance that Jackson will not make the playoffs at all if they lose to Star Valley, Cody beats Powell, and Green River defeats Evanston. They'll also be eliminated if they lose on Friday, Powell takes care of Cody, and Green River defeats Evanston. Stay tuned!

We have some fantastic images of this game thanks to Greg Wise and they can be found in the gallery below. Enjoy.