Thursday, November 11, 2010

Grizzlies hunt for vengeance

 The Grizzlies 4 point loss on September 24 to the Hagerman Pirates left a bit of a sour taste in the mouth's of those who participated and watched.  Grace had done well to contain a high powered pirate offense. But the Grizzlies offense in the 4th quarter struggled and some key turnovers cost them a potential win.  On their last possession they drove the ball deep into Pirate territory, but a fumble by QB Josh Jensen gave the ball back to Hagerman and the defense was unable to get a stop in time.
 
 That loss gave the Grizzlies their 5th tough loss in a row.  But from there on out, they have been flawless.  Now they are coming into the game against Hagerman with a 5 game win streak.  The emotional comeback win over Notus last week proved that Grace has the heart and determination to accomplish the goal of a state title, but will they have the speed to match up with the Pirates tonight in the Dome. 

 Hagerman runs an offense that is similar to Grace's.  They like to spread out the defense and beat you with their speed.  They will put 4 receivers wide, with the QB in shotgun and run a little draw play all night long.  The defense will be playing man coverage and keying on receiver Ryan Luttmer, who has over 800 yards receiving on the year.  If the defense can contain the QB and if the secondary steps up and plays tough man coverage, Grace should fair well.

 The Grizzlies plan on coming into this game with the same offensive game plan that they took into Notus last week.  A strong rush attack to suck some defenders into the box, which will hopefully open up their potent passing game. 

 The amazing win last week is most definitely on the minds of everyone in Grace and it's sure to bring out many people to Holt Arena tonight to see Grace play in the semi-finals for the first time ever.

 The coaching staff has been working hard all week to make sure the boys aren't living in the past and are focused on the immediate goal of beating Hagerman.

 A win tonight would put the Grizzlies in the state title game against the winner of Prairie and Troy.  If the Prairie Pirates win and return to the state title game for the 3rd year in a row that would make three Pirate teams in a row that could potentially fall victim to the Grizzlies.

 
 Tonight's Odds:  O/U 83      Spread    Grace - 7

No comments:

Post a Comment