(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy.)
Talking on this week’s Hornet podcast, Coach Zac Harrell praised his defense for setting the tone in recent weeks and looked ahead to a tough home matchup Friday night against Waco Connally.
Defensive Standouts
Athens improved to 3-1 with a dominant homecoming win over Jacksonville last week, and Coach Harrell said the defense has been a big part of the Hornets’ success.
“The last three games we’ve given up defensively really 7 points each game,” he said. “We thought it was going to be one of the better defenses we’ve had.”
The Hornets’ front seven has racked up 27 tackles for loss, 12 sacks, and 27 quarterback pressures in four games. Coach Harrell credited Defensive Coordinator Chayse Rives and the team’s effort for creating negative plays that keep opponents off schedule.
On the defensive line, captain Jaden “Pookie” Davis anchors the middle at nose guard. Charles Livingston, a three-year varsity player, has been steady at defensive end, while sophomore Danny Kelley has earned the other end spot and made an immediate impact.
At linebacker, veterans Eli Carnes, Ja’Bory Taylor, and Juan Cleto bring experience, with Sebastian Delgado and Marvin Lyons also rotating in and making plays. “That’s a pretty athletic front seven,” Coach Harrell said. “Coach Rives has done a great job of generating pressure and putting pressure on people.”
Carnes has led the charge, posting team highs in tackles for loss and sacks. Coach Harrell called him the “quarterback of the defense” who provides energy and leadership.
The secondary has also made strides, led by Kobe Wilson’s physical play and an interception last week. Coach Harrell said the group is young but improving every game.
Scouting Waco Connally
The Cadets come to Bruce Field for Athens’ final non-district game before the open week.
Coach Harrell said Connally is one of the most talented teams Athens will face, though injuries have sidelined several key players. At full strength, he called them “one of the best 4A teams in the state.”
The Cadet’s best player is receiver and cornerback Jamarion Vincent, who is committed to Baylor. Coach Harrell said the Cadets rely on an RPO-heavy attack and athletic playmakers who play on both sides of the ball.
Defensively, Connally plays mostly man coverage, something Athens hasn’t seen much this season. Coach Harrell said his receivers will need precise route running and quarterback David Richardson must deliver the ball on time.
Keys to Victory
The word of the week is Standard. Harrell said the Hornets must continue to meet their own expectations, regardless of the opponent or outside distractions.
Maintain the Standard. Play to program expectations on and off the field, week in and week out.
Start Fast. Athens has yet to open cleanly in all three phases.
Play Fast and Physical. Take advantage of depth and wear down Conley’s two-way players.
Protect the Quarterback. Harrell challenged the offensive line to eliminate sacks and pressures.
Play With Passion. Be the more energetic, excited team.
This Week
Friday, Sept. 26 – Athens vs. Waco Conley, 7:30 p.m., Bruce Field
