Sports : QB challenge: ADM senior leads only 3A unbeaten vs. Union tonight

Union advanced to tonight's Class 3A semifinal by finding a way to contain the arm and legs of Maquoketa QB Chase Coakley, who had led the Cardinal offense to five touchdowns against Union earlier in the season.

Tonight they face an even tougher QB challenge: ADM-Adel senior Gavin Glenn. Glenn, a highly-recruited senior, has thrown 34 touchdowns while passing for 2,876 yards. He has also run for 667 yards and eight touchdowns on just 110 carries.

ADM-Adel, located in Dallas County West of Des Moines, includes the towns of Adel, DeSoto and Milburn. The team is the only remaining unbeaten in Class 3A.

"Offensively, they have one of the best QB's in state," said Unioncoach Joe Hadachek. "Glenn is the most proficient passer in passing rating and can also run the football. He has a complete group of receivers so you can't focus on just one or two. Two of his WRs are 6'5" and that is going to be challenging. We need to keep him from making big plays and rally to the football no matter whether it is a run or pass."

ADM can run the ball, too. Senior Jared Grove averages 100 yards per game and seven yards per carry.

"Grove is a legit threat at running the ball also," says Hadachek. "You can't say they are one dimensional by any means."

The Tigers also have been very strong defensively, as well as on both sides of special teams. Their only close game was a 20-17 win over the Carlisleteam that also advanced to the playoffs. The Tiger offense averages 40 points a game while the defense has only given up 121 points in 12 games.

"Their defense has really shut their opponents down also. Pellagave them a run for their money in last round of playoffs also but weather could have played a factor. They like to mix it up with some pressure and if you can't handle the pressure it could be a long night," says Hadachek.

Like Union, ADM is advancing to play in the UNI-Dome for the first time ever.

"It should be an exciting game for the fans," says the Unioncoach. "We have been waiting for 24 years to get to the Dome and now the wait is over. It's time to tee it up and see who has the better team."

Every young Iowafootball player dreams of playing in the Dome, says Hadachek.

"We are excited about this great opportunity to play in the UNI-Dome. Many of our team members have been playing padded football together since 3rd, 4th and 5th grade and it has made a tremendous impact on our communities. Now the dream becomes reality; we get to experience it by playing there. Dreams do come true if you have the courage to pursue them."

The coach's advice for his players before tonight's big game?

"We must focus on what we need to do to compete for four quarters in this game. They are a very good football team and we need to focus on each play and not get overwhelmed by playing in the Dome. I believe after the first series it all boils down to who tackles and blocks the best. I really believe we have experienced a great week of practice and the old saying goes you play like you practice."

The game takes place at 7:30 p.m. at the UNI-Dome. It will be televised on KCRG 9.2.