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In this episode, Michael talks with Coach Harrell about the Hornets' impressive win over Rusk and their upcoming showdown against Center.
Complete Performance Against Rusk
The Athens Hornets (6-2) delivered their most complete performance of the season last week in their win over Rusk, showing dominance in all three phases of the game. The Hornets are continuing to build momentum as they move through the season.
"It's the best we've played, probably in all three phases," Coach Harrell said. "We've just got to build on it. We've just got to keep building, keep stacking those blocks and if we do, we think great things are ahead."
The Hornets' offense received a boost last week from the return of quarterback David Richardson.
"You can't say enough about what David means to this team," Coach Harrell said. "There's no one that wants to win more than David Richardson."
The team also expanded Ja'bory Taylor's role in the offense and unveiled a new power formation featuring four linebackers in the backfield - inside linebackers Mason Shelton and Eli Carnes at H-back, with Jase Warren at running back and Taylor at quarterback.
Center Presents Major Challenge
This week brings what Coach Harrell calls "the most important game of the year" up to this point as the Hornets host the Center Roughriders (7-1). Center's only loss this season came against Carthage.
The Roughriders present a unique offensive challenge with their up-tempo attack.
"They play extremely fast... every play once the ball is spotted, they're snapping it," Coach Harrell said.
The offense lines up with its receivers wide to spread the field and features a strong vertical passing game. While their scheme is simplified to fit the tempo, their quarterback can throw the ball 50-60 yards downfield, making them a constant big-play threat.
The Hornets' secondary will face a significant test against Center's attack, but Coach Harrell is confident in his defensive backs. AJ White continues his standout play at corner, while Dewayne Minifee earned defensive player of the week honors against Rusk. Sophomore Zyh'ian Tilley has shown his ability to defend deep passes on the opposite side, and the safety duo of Dray'von Russell and Rhys Groom provides solid support over the top.
Center's defense operates from an odd front and brings consistent pressure. "They like to blitz ... they bring at least four, almost every down, a lot of times they'll bring five," Coach Harrell said.
Special Teams Excellence
The Hornets' kickoff coverage unit has become a genuine weapon. E'manuel Moore made three tackles on eight kickoffs and recovered an onside kick against Rusk. Dewayne Minifee earned special teams MVP honors alongside his defensive accolades.
"I'm not sure I've ever seen a high school football team kickoff team play with the effort that ours is playing with," Coach Harrell said. "Pay attention on the kickoff unit if you're not. How hard those guys are playing is pretty unique. It's fun to watch."
Key's to the Game
Coach Harrell outlined the following keys to the game for the Hornets:
Word of the Week: Payday - Harrell said this game represents the payoff for months of hard work dating back to January. He emphasized that not all programs get to play in significant games like this, making it crucial to capitalize on the opportunity.
Limit Big Plays - The defense must prevent Center's explosive offense from connecting on deep passes and force them to execute consistently.
Control the Line of Scrimmage - With Center's aggressive blitzing scheme, the offensive line must continue their strong play from last week. Coach Harrell believes if they win up front, they'll score plenty of points.
Handle the Tempo - The Hornets want to turn Center's fast-paced offense into a weapon against them. If they're well-prepared for the speed, they can force quick three-and-outs and get their offense back on the field.
Win the Turnover Battle - In a matchup of two strong teams, protecting the ball and creating turnovers becomes crucial for victory.
Play Physical Football - Following their dominant performance against Rusk, Harrell wants his team to maintain that physical style of play and show Center "that the Athens Hornets are a different breed with how they play football."
This Week
The Hornets host Center in a crucial district match-up. Coach Harrell emphasized the need for strong fan support: "If you're in Athens come on out. You're going to be treated to a good brand of football and big time East Texas Friday night football."
Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Bruce Field.
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