This interview was recorded Wednesday, Sept. 7, at the Athens Field House with Coach Zac Harrell and Michael V. Hannigan. Please listen to the complete interview above.
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By Michael V. Hannigan
The competition takes a step up for the Hornets this week as Athens hits the road to face the Rusk Eagles Friday night.
Rusk is 2-0 to start this season and is coming off a playoff run in 2021. The Eagles beat Crockett, 53-21, last week.
The 2-0 Hornets are also flying high after beating Life Waxahachie last week, 48-18.
"The effort (last week) was a huge uptick and I was pleased with that," said Coach Zac Harrell.
Athens has looked good on both sides of the ball to start the year and has shown the ability to move the ball at will both on the ground and through the air.
There are still things to work on, however.
"We have to clean up special teams," Coach Harrell said. "That's kind of the most glaring deficiency of Week 1 and Week 2. "
Playing better in the kicking game and limiting penalties are going to be factors this week because Rusk is a well-coached, balanced team.
"They are a complete football team," said Coach Harrell. "They are an extremely well coached football team."
One of the most interesting features of the Eagles is their defense. Rusk plays a system that Coach Harrell said he's never seen in his career. It includes three defensive linemen, three linebackers in a unique alignment, and three safeties.
"It is hard to get a feel for where they're going to be or what they're going to do because they're all over the place," he said.
Friday night promises to be a test for Athens, so make the trip to Rusk to cheer on the Hornets. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
Level Up
The Word of the Week for the Hornets is "Level Up."
"If we want to beat the playoff-caliber teams. If we want to be one. Then we've got to raise our level," said Coach Harrell.
Coach Harrell identified the keys to the game:
Play assignment defense, especially in the secondary, and Generate a pass rush and pressure the Rusk QB.
Offense has to focus and communicate.
Win all special teams.
Play physical.
Do whatever it takes throughout the week to raise your level.
Interview Topics
Pleased With The Effort (:47)
Complete Game From Offense and Defense (2:17)
Penalties (4:03)
Rusk Eagles (6:10)
Level Up (7:07)
Rusk Offense (7:50)
Rusk Defense (10:08)
Keys to The Game (13:20)
These posts are free thanks to Hannigan Media sponsors Athens Screen Printing, Tinsley Law & Title, Gibson Pharmacy, R&R Lawn Specialist, Gilbert Electric, Hunan Buffet, and Holt Wrecker.
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