CHERRY TWP — The Moniteau football team set its sights on some lofty goals in the preseason.

Among the targets were a Keystone Shortway Athletic Conference-Large championship and a Class AA District 9 title.

So far, so good, as Moniteau has opened with four straight wins. But the next test for the Warriors will let them know where they stand among the KSAC-Large elite.

Moniteau (4-0, 2-0) will host St. Marys (4-0, 1-0) Friday night in a battle of unbeatens. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.

“It's a big game for the kids and it's a big step toward a possible championship,” said Moniteau head coach Jeff Campbell. “But the kids need to remain calm, keep their heads and treat it like it's just another game.”

The Warriors have taken major strides since a season-opening 26-24 win over conference rival Karns City.

Moniteau has disposed of Clarion, Brookville and Redbank Valley by a combined score of 113-55.

“We've improved in a lot of different areas — pretty dramatically, really,” said Campbell. “We're a lot more sound offensively. The offensive line has really come together.”

The nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators starts with senior quarterback Kyle Armagost, but expands to a variety of explosive weapons that surround him.

Armagost has completed 37-of-69 passes this season for 823 yards with eight touchdowns and five interceptions. The dual-threat signal-caller has also totaled 239 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 53 carries, despite a sprained MCL he suffered toward the end of Moniteau's 20-6 win over Clarion in Week 2.

The injury forced Armagost to rely on his arm in Week 3, which might have actually paid dividends in his development as a quarterback.

Ethan Pry has helped his cause, emerging as Butler County's most productive wide receiver through four games. The senior has racked up 453 receiving yards on 15 catches. He's also hauled in four touchdowns.

Pry isn't the only option for Armagost, though.

Brayden McCorry and Joey Deal have proven to be reliable targets. McCorry has eight receptions for 163 yards and three touchdowns, while Deal, a tight end, has reeled in nine passes for 89 yards and a score.

If St. Marys can figure out a way to stop the passing game, then good luck containing tailback Dustin Geagan.

The sophomore has rushed for 497 yards and five touchdowns on 63 totes.

“I don't think teams can key on the pass or the run,” Campbell said. “We can keep them honest. We're pretty balanced offensively.”

On the other hand, St. Marys leans heavily on the run. The Flying Dutch, who are coming off a 20-16 win over Clarion, have thrown only 15 passes all season.

“We need to stop the run,” said Campbell. “They run a traditional Wing-T formation with a lot of jet sweeps, traps and counters. They run a lot out of a power set, too.”

Seniors Justin Quiggle and Brian Merritt will see some carries, but junior fullback Cody Baker will be the biggest threat to the Moniteau defense.

Baker has enjoyed massive performances in his past three outings. He gained 204 yards on 37 carries last week, which was actually a step back from a 233-yard showing on 17 rushes at the expense of Punxsutawney.

“I think we're ready for the challenge,” Campbell added. “It should be a good game.”