Scouting: Hampshire @ Byron

Hampshire (0-3) at Byron (0-3)

When: today at 7:30 p.m. at Hampshire Athletic Field

Last year: Hampshire 20, Byron 6

Last week: Oregon 35, Hampshire 13; Burlington Central 35, Byron 13

Outlook: A winless start to the 2009 season feels like déjà vu for Hampshire's senior class. A year ago the Whip-Purs opened the season 0-3 only to rally for 6 straight wins and a Big Northern-East title. If the Whips are to make a serious run at their fifth playoff appearance in the last six years, a road win tonight against the winless Tigers in this Big Northern crossover game is a must. "They've experienced it," Hampshire coach Dan Cavanaugh said of his senior class and the 0-3 start. "They were on that team and they know it's not too late. All the goals that we talked about are still out there, and they know it can be done. We're looking forward to going out there. We used to go out to play at Byron all the time, but it's been a few years now." This will be Hampshire's first trip to Byron since 2002, when both were members of the Big Northern-West. Hampshire has struggled offensively, scoring only 3 touchdowns in three games. But the Whips could be on the precipice of a breakout following some position switches last week. Senior Joe Peralta stepped in to play offensive tackle and senior Ryan Burke will play quarterback for the second straight game. He completed 14-of-21 attempts for 184 yards and 2 fourth-quarter touchdown passes. "I think we've finally figured out who goes where," Cavanaugh said. "We had a lot of spots to fill. It's just a matter now of being more consistent."