Last Friday very well could have marked a turning point in a previously disappointing campaign for Waubonsie Valley's football squad. With a 28-26 victory over arch-rival Neuqua Valley, the Warriors propelled themselves into the win column, and into the UEC conversation. At 1-3, the Warriors finally return to Death Valley for a showdown with 0-4 Elgin, in which they must continue their upward climb and their winning ways.
The game with Neuqua showcased Waubonsie's offense as it was meant to be run in the passing department, as Tyler Castro completed passes to a host of talented receivers en-route to over 250 yards and 4 touchdowns. From the get go, it was apparent that wide receiver Mark Hilgers had talent, but his 2 touchdown performance against the Wildcats showcased his ability to come through in the clutch. While the Warriors only managed 42 yards on the ground, these yards clearly came at the right time, as Kendrick Crayton ran down the clock, and Neuqua's chances at a comeback.
Defensively, the Warriors are not the same unit that topped the UEC last season, but that is to be expected as new youth fills in the roles that last year's graduates left behind. Yes, they failed to stop the run in many situations, allowing over 150 yards in the first half alone. But when it mattered, they held their ground, denying a 2-point conversion late in the game and putting significant pressure on Neuqua quarterback Alex Lincoln.
The question: What must the Warriors focus on coming into a game that they should easily win? For starters, they need to continue to play to their strengths. Continue running an efficient passing game, and possibly work in some new receivers when appropriate. Another main priority for the offense is to get their running attack going. In order for this to happen the offensive line needs to be on their game, and on homecoming, they should have a nice opportunity to boost confidence and nail their blocks, allowing Crayton to get yardage he hasn't seen all season.
On defense, the Warriors should focus on stopping the run and continue to put pressure on the quarterback. Besides not being able to stop the run, another thing the defense was unable to do against Neuqua was force turnovers, and by pressuring the quarterback, this should take care of itself.
To all you Warrior fans out there, what are you looking for this Friday? What should Waubonsie put emphasis on in trying to improve their team for the stretch run?
This blog is written by wv2010, a Waubonsie Valley student. His views do not reflect those of The Sun and are entirely his own.
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