The Orangefield Bobcats are coming off an exciting win last week against Hardin-Jefferson. The victory actually allows the Bobcats to play for the district championship this Friday night against the West Orange-Stark Mustangs at F. L. McClain Stadium.
Orangefield Coach Josh Smalley says the Mustangs operate the Spread out of the shotgun and are loaded with talent. Looking at the numbers West Orange-Stark is very balanced on offense with almost 2,000 yards on the ground and about 1400 passing the ball.
There is no mystery that the hub of the Mustang offense is all-state quarterback Jack Dallas who is having another phenomenal year. He has a number of skilled receivers to throw the ball. Jeremiah Shaw is their leading rusher. Smalley points out West Orange-Stark is much improved in the offensive line. “It’s a challenge for us no doubt,” Smalley admits.
As talented as West Orange-Stark is on offense, Coach Smalley believes the Mustangs may be even better on defense. Smalley states they are exceptional; they are not just good, they are great. It is an outstanding defense that does not give up many points or very many yards to the opposition.
In the middle of the Mustangs’ 50 Defense is noseguard Mandel Turner-King who has been a starter all four years at West Orange-Stark. The two defensive tackles on either side of King are outstanding too according to Smalley, and then there are two great linebackers all of which add up to a total team defense. Smalley acknowledges, “Offensively to find ways to move the ball we’ve got our hands full Friday night.”
Orangefield needs a win Friday night to tie for the district title with the Mustangs. Coach Smalley looks at the tough challenge facing the Bobcats in the ball game. As normal penalties, turnovers, and time of possession will be keys for Orangefield to contend with West Orange-Stark. Smalley adds another key is scoring when the Bobcats have the ball otherwise with the Mustangs quick strike offense time of possession can be thrown out the window.
Every team hopes for the chance to play for a district championship, and Orangefield is no exception. Smalley concludes, “At the beginning of the year you just hope for the opportunity to compete for a district title, and we’ve earned that right to at least go play for it, compete for it, and we’re going to give it our best.”
Friday night the Orangefield Bobcats play the West Orange-Stark Mustangs with the district championship on the line. KOGT will broadcast the game live with the kickoff at 7:30. A rebroadcast of the game can be heard at 7:00 AM Saturday morning.
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