The Orangefield Bobcats bounced back last week for their first district win. Coach Josh Smalley was very happy with the victory and the fact no Bobcats went down with an injury. It is nice to get a win any time, but getting back on the right foot in district is especially rewarding according to Smalley especially after the loss in the opening district game against Buna. Smalley observed, “It doesn’t get any easier this week that’s for sure.”
The district battles continue this Friday night in Winnie as the Bobcats play East Chambers. Smalley looked at the Buccaneers and their explosive offense. They put up 31 points against state ranked Woodville and tallied 57 against Hardin last week. “They score a lot of points,” Smalley pointed out.
The Shotgun is the offense the Buccaneers use with plenty of ammunition to make for a long night if the opposing defense cannot stop them. East Chambers will use multiple formations shifting its backs sometimes showing one back, sometimes two backs, and sometimes no backs. A receiver may even move into the backfield.
The leader on offense for East Chambers is Ernest Ceasar who averages ten yards every time he carries the football. He has some help from Nolton Shelvin who has rushed for over three yards with seven touchdowns. The Bucs’ quarterback Kam Smith completes a trio of threats with the football. Not to be forgotten is Kordell David at wide receiver who has accounted for six touchdowns.
Special teams warrant a mention with East Chambers. Kicker Jose Chavez has kicked three field goals and 22 extra-points. Smalley said Chavez is extremely adapt at booting pooch kicks with great hang time on kick offs.
The Buccaneers may be known for their putting points on the board, but Coach Smalley said they do a good job slowing down opponents’ offenses. East Chambers runs multiple fronts on defense based out of a five-man front. Smalley advised he thinks the Bobcats will see the Buccaneers in something resembling a Vidor three stack look. The Buccaneers frequently have their linemen submarine the opposing team’s guards to keep them from pulling on running plays.
The linebackers for East Chambers are very aggressive and come downhill to hit ball carriers. The skilled players on offense are mostly two-way players and fill the secondary positions on defense. Smalley stated, “Defensively they get after you, and it will be a challenge for us offensively, Friday.”
Both teams have one loss in district play. Smalley indicated this is a key game for Orangefield to establish itself as a serious contender for a playoff berth. The coach believes the Bobcats need to win this ball game, a loss does not take them out of the playoffs but does set them back. “I think it’s going to be a competitive type football game between two well coached teams. When I tell you, they are a great quality all-around football team that’s what they are, and there’s a reason why they’re four and one,” Smalley concluded.
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