This interview was recorded Wednesday, Oct. 19, at the Athens ISD Field House.
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The 4-3 Athens Hornets will host 4-4 Palestine Friday night at Bruce Field.
While the Hornets have struggled in District 9-4A play so far, a win Friday night will put them right in the thick of the playoff race.
"All of our focus, everything we do, has to be on this week and on Palestine and on being 1-0 this week," Coach Zac Harrell said. "And if we do that, we'll give ourselves a chance to keep playing."
The Wildcats utilize a Wing T offense so expect them to run the ball a lot. They will, however, look to go deep a few times a game and that is something the Hornets will have to be ready for.
"They are going to try to eat the clock and control the tempo of the game," Coach Harrell said.
Defensively, Palestine employs an odd front. You'll see three down linemen with the outside linebackers creeping close to the line of scrimmage. With seven men in the box, the Wildcats will be looking to stop the Hornet rushing attack, which could open things up for them in the passing game.
"They are a very physical football team," Coach Harrell said.
KEYS TO THE GAME (14:47)
Word of the Week: "Relentless Effort."
Coach Harrell said having that nonstop motor on the field is a core value for the Hornets, but coaches are really focusing on it this week.
"I think we're playing hard, but I still think we can play harder," he said.
Key 1: Want it More -- "If you don't burn inside to want it, you need to let me know," said Coach Harrell. "We need to find the guys and get the guys on the field that really want it and want to be successful."
Key 2: Be Physical on Defense -- "When you're playing this type of offense you have to be physical."
Key 3: Must Block the Odd Front Effectively
Key 4: Complete Passes at Over 70 Percent -- "We feel like we're going to have a lot of opportunities when a team plays seven in the box."
Key 5: Start Fast -- "We can't dig ourselves a hole."
OTHER TOPICS
-- Slow starts hurting the Hornets. (10:52)
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Hornets set to welcome Palestine into Bruce Field Friday night