Role reversal for Solon vs. Regina rivalry

IOWA CITY - At one time, Iowa City Regina strived to be in Solon's shoes.

Now, the football cleat is on the other foot.

Three years after snapping Solon's 42-game win streak, Regina heads to Spartan Stadium on Friday with the roles reversed, toting a 43-game win streak on the line. Regina's last loss came to Solon, who handed the Regals their only two losses in 2009.

"Obviously, the success their program has had is second to none," Regina Coach Marv Cook said. "What they have been able to accomplish over those years has been amazing."We learned a lot from them."

The programs own a mutual respect for each other, building potent powers through fundamentals and sound schemes. Cook said he is a fan of Solon Coach Kevin Miller, his staff and players. The competition helped push the Regals to a higher level of performance.

"To see it up close and personal as a player and coach, it's truly been something that you find a way (to win) or keep getting rolled over," Cook said. "Fortunately, our kids have stepped up and answered the bell. We've had some success here in recent years."

The proverbial torch was passed in that 21-15 win by the Regals. Solon went on to win the 2010 Class 3A state title, which was the last of four straight championships and a fifth consecutive finals appearance. Regina won their first of two straight 2A crowns, adding a 1A title last year. Regina is looking for four in a row and a chance to tie the state's all-time unbeaten streak of 56 games by Waterloo East, if they can post an undefeated season.

"Coach Cook makes sure we know what the rivalry is all about," senior Julian Martinez said. "It was in their hands three or four years with James Morris. Now, once the tide has turned we want to keep it down south here."

If there was any lingering sting from the loss that prevented a fourth undefeated season, a win Friday could be the salve to soothe it. Miller insists that revenge is not a motivating factor for the Spartans this week.

"You don't concern yourself with the streak," Miller said. "You concern yourself with always getting better and I think that's their focus as well.

"It (the streak) is a byproduct of doing things right."

Regina has rolled the last two years, winning 35-9 in 2011. Last season, the Regals scored 21 points off turnovers for a 31-7 victory. Miller said Regina is big and physical on the line of scrimmage with a good quarterback and talented skill players. He said the Spartans are capable of matching the size and strength of the line and improved depth.

"The last few years we didn't match up well," Miller said. "They were bigger, stronger (and) faster. This year we have an outfit that's a little bit better prepared."

Solon provides the first major test of the season for Regina, which will have a tough road in 1A District 6. The Regals are aware of what the Spartans bring to the table and expect a battle.

"They'll get after you and hit you when you're not ready for it," Regina senior wide receiver Bryan Amelon said. "They are a really aggressive team."

Both teams are coming off strong season-opening wins. Regina handled West Liberty, 42-14, at home. Solon went to rival Mount Vernon and walked away with a 31-8 victory, despite missing some key starters including leading returning rusher Jordan Wymer, who is expected to return Week 2.

Jacob Black threw for 138 and ran for another 138, accounting for three touchdowns. Brandon Kramer added 141 rushing yards and a TD.

Regina was led by senior running back Riley Dixon, who rushed for 107 yards and had more than 60 receiving yards with three total touchdowns. Drew Cook threw for 167 yards, completing 16-of-21 passes, and two touchdowns. He also ran for a 39-yard score.

Everyone involved understands the significance of the rivalry and what is at stake Friday. It will be important to buckle the chin straps tight and dig in for a fight."Hopefully, they just know it's going to be an intense game," Cook said. "Ultimately, the team who plays and executes the best will probably be the team that wins it."