Tonight, the Friendswood Mustangs hosted the Clear Creek Wildcats in a game of undefeated, district 24-6A teams. Tonight was a rather long night for the Mustangs.
It's kinda hard to analyze what I saw tonight because I'm not sure who that was wearing the black jerseys. But I do know that those were not the guys I'm used to seeing on the field on Friday night. The offense looked "off" for most of the game and the defense didn't appear to have near the passion that they usually display.
Of course, there were some good things that happened for the Mustangs tonight, as well as some things that were highlighted as areas that need work. Since I want to end on a positive note, I'm going to start with the stuff that needs work. Sometimes, I really hate being right. Tonight was one of those nights. The pass coverage tonight was worse than usual, and it's never great. Yes, the Mustang defense does a great job of stopping the receiver, but it's almost always after the catch has been made. Allowing the other team to catch the ball moves the chains and puts points on the board. Tonight, the defense did prevent more passes from being caught (percentage wise), but those that were caught weren't stopped as quickly, And Creek's last pass - what was that?? Was anyone other than the line even trying to stop that play? That receiver was wide open and I think he could have walked into the end zone and still made it. And why were they allowed to run up the middle so much? Is Creek's offensive line that much stronger than Friendswood's? Were the Mustangs just not in the right position to stop it? Again, where was the passion for the game that the defense usually has?
I know I don't mention special teams very often; after all, it's mostly the same guys who are on offense or defense - but tonight the special teams play reminded me of the Mustangs of old (5ish years go) and that's not a compliment. The opposing special teams did a much better job of blocking for their ball carriers than the Mustangs usually do, and they had no problem making sure that the Mustangs were not in a position to stop the ball carrier.
There were some interesting changes on offense this evening. They seemed effective, so I'm not sure why they didn't use those players in those positions more. The offense just seemed a little lack-luster tonight. They looked like they were working hard. I can't put my finger on what was wrong, but it was like watching a good imitation of the Friendswood offense instead of seeing the real deal.
Even though the team as a whole was not as dynamic as usual, there were some bright spots during the game. A few players were back from injuries and played well. A few players tried out some new positions and had success, though I wouldn't make the moves permanent - permanently occasional wouldn't be bad, thought. And one player earned his first varsity touchdown - though I don't understand why they don't throw it to him more often. I haven't seen the numbers, but I think it's a safe bet that Sargent had a larger percentage of his passes caught tonight than last week, not counting the interceptions, and I only saw one bad snap, the first snap. The offensive line also did a great job of protecting the quarterback.
Tonight's "attaboys" go to: Roher, Sargent, Longbotham, Vandersypen, Thurman, King, White, Rollen, Dehoyos, Gardner, #88 (sorry, I don't know who you are), Toney, and Langston.
Tonight's box score was
1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q Final
Clear Creek Wildcats 7 20 7 14 48
Friendswood Mustangs 7 0 7 7 21
If this team doesn't find it's heart quick, fast and in a hurry, next Friday night will be even longer than tonight. Dickinson has been an easy week in the past, but that is not true any longer. They are a tough team and it will take everything the Mustangs have to pull out the W. I know that they can, but if they don't believe it, it won't happen.
The Mustangs have got to figure out a way to both solidify the new offense and contain the passing game. Those two things are musts! If they can do those without losing what they have already mastered, then Dickinson won't know what hit 'em when Friendswood rolls into town next week.
Students - next week, obviously, is an away game. Which means, . . . . No designated student section. Sit close to the band. Allow the drum cadences and music the band plays to pump you up. That energy will transfer to the field and help the team. The Mustangs will need all the help they can get against the Gators and you could be the deciding factor in the game. Make the short drive to Dickinson and show them that Friendswood is there to make a statement. If the team can pull off the upset, it will be a statement heard around the State.
Friday, October 17, 2014
Monday, October 13, 2014
Clear Springs Chargers vs. Friendswood Mustangs - October 10, 2014 - Homecoming
On Friday, October 10, 2014, the Friendswood Mustangs hosted the Clear Springs Chargers. It was Homecoming for the Mustangs and the first ever meeting between the two teams. Entering the game, the Chargers were 3-2 (2-0) and the Mustangs were 4-1 (2-0).
The game was preceded by some "smack talk" that got a little personal. Based on what I had seen, heard and read, I was expecting a violent game full of fights and near fights. Instead, it was a mostly clean game with two teams giving everything they had to earn the W.
This was a fast paced game, especially in the first half. With it being homecoming, I was surrounded by family and friends and really had a hard time keeping up at first. We've never actually used all of our season tickets before. We usually have extras and can spread out a little. This week, we felt like sardines during the first half. Most of our guests left during the third quarter (grandparents, or relatives with preschool children). But even with the cramped area and the quick action on the field making it difficult for me to see and tweet the game, I wouldn't have traded a minute of it.
I would like to start with a short positive comment about the refs (yes, you read that correctly). While no ref is perfect, and biased, uncaring refs is my big soapbox issue, these refs did a better job than most of the crews we have seen this year. Of course, they missed a few things. But they were fair. And while they weren't afraid to throw a flag when it was warranted, they didn't throw excessive flags.
Now to the good stuff. The research I had done on Clear Springs showed them to have a similar offensive scheme to Friendswood. They have a quarterback who can both run and pass as well as a running back who is a work horse. They utilized both Friday night. That worked out well for Friendswood. So far, the Mustang defense has mostly seen teams that prefer to run the ball. Friendswood's defense has become very good at controlling a running game. Of course, there were still too many runs up the middle; but that group of guys has gotten very good at reading an opposing offense and being in the right place at the right time. Robinson showed us more of his JJ Watt impression Friday night and White, King & Co. came up with key plays to keep the number on the Clear Springs' side of the scoreboard at zero. Some of those key plays being recovered fumbles and an interception near the goal line. Which reminds me, does it still count as an interception if the person who caught the ball fumbles it and the ball is recovered by the team who originally threw the pass?
The Mustangs' offense had to make a huge adjustment toward the end of the first half under circumstances no one would want to see. Due to an injury, sophomore QB Page spent the end of the first half and the entire second half pacing the sidelines with ice strapped to him while Senior QB Sargent led the Mustangs through the rest of the game. Both quarterbacks are very good, but they each have a different style. The offense did a good job of making the necessary adjustments. Sargent's long passes were sometimes too long, but with more practice this week for the offense with his style of playing, I'm sure the passing game will look even more solid next week. The offensive line did a great job this week, as always, protecting the quarterback and providing blocking for the ball carrier.
The box score for the game was
1st 2nd 3rd 4th Final
Clear Springs 0 0 0 0 0
Friendswood 7 0 7 3 17
Going forward, . . . . If I were running the defense, I would have them practice more on preventing receptions in the passing game. Based on what I saw Friday night, I would guess that they have been working on that. The defense is amazing at stopping the receiver once he catches the ball. And they are improving on preventing the reception - not a small improvement either.
I am excited to see the game this coming Friday against another of the top teams in the new district 24-6A. From what I have read so far, it seems that this next team has an offense that is different from what the Mustangs have previously faced. I am certain that the Mustangs can handle this different offensive style and I am looking forward to see what that containment looks like. I'm also anxious to see the offensive changes. I suspect that the Mustang offense will either have an exhilarating night, or a very long night.
I almost forgot the best part of my weekly entries. This week's "attaboys" go to: Page, Sargent, Longbotham, Brewster, Crespo, Beaty, Langston, Robinson, White, King, Rollen, Shelby, Lowe, Follis, Chidester, Gardner, & Toney. This week I'd also like to offer a pat on the back to those players who are on the field for very few plays but are still watching and learning. I see some of you watching each play and listening to the coaches talk with the players. You obviously want to learn more so that you can be a better player when you do get to line up on the field. Kuddos to you.
The Mustangs' next game will be on Friday, October 17, 2014, at Henry Winston Stadium against the Clear Creek Wildcats (4-2, 3-0). Before the game, the Wranglerettes will host a pregame dinner beginning at 4:30pm in the cafeteria with performances by the Fall Clinic students, Drill Trainers and Wranglerettes beginning at 5pm. Chick-Fil-A will be served. If you are looking for tickets, ask any Wranglerettte. Tickets will also be available at the door. I hear that there will be some great items in the silent auction as well. Kick off for the game will be at 7pm.
Go Mustangs!!
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by tweeting during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
The game was preceded by some "smack talk" that got a little personal. Based on what I had seen, heard and read, I was expecting a violent game full of fights and near fights. Instead, it was a mostly clean game with two teams giving everything they had to earn the W.
This was a fast paced game, especially in the first half. With it being homecoming, I was surrounded by family and friends and really had a hard time keeping up at first. We've never actually used all of our season tickets before. We usually have extras and can spread out a little. This week, we felt like sardines during the first half. Most of our guests left during the third quarter (grandparents, or relatives with preschool children). But even with the cramped area and the quick action on the field making it difficult for me to see and tweet the game, I wouldn't have traded a minute of it.
I would like to start with a short positive comment about the refs (yes, you read that correctly). While no ref is perfect, and biased, uncaring refs is my big soapbox issue, these refs did a better job than most of the crews we have seen this year. Of course, they missed a few things. But they were fair. And while they weren't afraid to throw a flag when it was warranted, they didn't throw excessive flags.
Now to the good stuff. The research I had done on Clear Springs showed them to have a similar offensive scheme to Friendswood. They have a quarterback who can both run and pass as well as a running back who is a work horse. They utilized both Friday night. That worked out well for Friendswood. So far, the Mustang defense has mostly seen teams that prefer to run the ball. Friendswood's defense has become very good at controlling a running game. Of course, there were still too many runs up the middle; but that group of guys has gotten very good at reading an opposing offense and being in the right place at the right time. Robinson showed us more of his JJ Watt impression Friday night and White, King & Co. came up with key plays to keep the number on the Clear Springs' side of the scoreboard at zero. Some of those key plays being recovered fumbles and an interception near the goal line. Which reminds me, does it still count as an interception if the person who caught the ball fumbles it and the ball is recovered by the team who originally threw the pass?
The Mustangs' offense had to make a huge adjustment toward the end of the first half under circumstances no one would want to see. Due to an injury, sophomore QB Page spent the end of the first half and the entire second half pacing the sidelines with ice strapped to him while Senior QB Sargent led the Mustangs through the rest of the game. Both quarterbacks are very good, but they each have a different style. The offense did a good job of making the necessary adjustments. Sargent's long passes were sometimes too long, but with more practice this week for the offense with his style of playing, I'm sure the passing game will look even more solid next week. The offensive line did a great job this week, as always, protecting the quarterback and providing blocking for the ball carrier.
The box score for the game was
1st 2nd 3rd 4th Final
Clear Springs 0 0 0 0 0
Friendswood 7 0 7 3 17
Going forward, . . . . If I were running the defense, I would have them practice more on preventing receptions in the passing game. Based on what I saw Friday night, I would guess that they have been working on that. The defense is amazing at stopping the receiver once he catches the ball. And they are improving on preventing the reception - not a small improvement either.
I am excited to see the game this coming Friday against another of the top teams in the new district 24-6A. From what I have read so far, it seems that this next team has an offense that is different from what the Mustangs have previously faced. I am certain that the Mustangs can handle this different offensive style and I am looking forward to see what that containment looks like. I'm also anxious to see the offensive changes. I suspect that the Mustang offense will either have an exhilarating night, or a very long night.
I almost forgot the best part of my weekly entries. This week's "attaboys" go to: Page, Sargent, Longbotham, Brewster, Crespo, Beaty, Langston, Robinson, White, King, Rollen, Shelby, Lowe, Follis, Chidester, Gardner, & Toney. This week I'd also like to offer a pat on the back to those players who are on the field for very few plays but are still watching and learning. I see some of you watching each play and listening to the coaches talk with the players. You obviously want to learn more so that you can be a better player when you do get to line up on the field. Kuddos to you.
The Mustangs' next game will be on Friday, October 17, 2014, at Henry Winston Stadium against the Clear Creek Wildcats (4-2, 3-0). Before the game, the Wranglerettes will host a pregame dinner beginning at 4:30pm in the cafeteria with performances by the Fall Clinic students, Drill Trainers and Wranglerettes beginning at 5pm. Chick-Fil-A will be served. If you are looking for tickets, ask any Wranglerettte. Tickets will also be available at the door. I hear that there will be some great items in the silent auction as well. Kick off for the game will be at 7pm.
Go Mustangs!!
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by tweeting during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
Friday, October 3, 2014
Friendswood Mustangs vs. Brazoswood Buccaneers - October 3, 2014
Tonight, the Friendswood Mustangs traveled to Freeport to to take on the Brazoswood Buccaneers. This is the first time these teams have met since 2009, if memory serves. I remember being at that game, and I remember that parking was terrible, and that the Mustangs didn't put their best foot forward. But I don't remember much else.
I did some reading about the Buccaneers before tonight's game and was not really expecting what I saw.
Before I get into the good, the bad, and the ugly; I want to share an observation over the last couple of years. I've noticed that it has become more common that the band, cheerleaders, and drill team of the away team (not specifically speaking about one particular school), to often be late to the game. Late enough to miss the playing of their school song. Why is that? Are there transportation issues preventing the buses from picking up these support groups in order for them to be on time? Are schools not allowing the students to leave in a timely fashion? Do leaders/directors not consider being present for the school song before the game a priority? Why? I have to say that I don't like it. The purpose of those groups being at football games in to support the football team and to provide halftime entertainment. Watching the varsity team take the field, seeing the cheerleaders and drill team cheer the players on and hearing silence from the band isn't what should be happening at a Texas High School Football game. I would like to ask the leaders of these groups to please do everything in your power to get your students in place in time for them to be introduced before the game, play the school song, and cheer for the players as they take the field.
And now for what happened on the field tonight. Since it's always more motivating to get patted on the back before your mistakes are pointed out, I'll start with the good. Friendswood players always play with heart. It's one of the things I love about high school football. Tonight, even when the refs seemed to be doing a terrible job; and Coach Koopman seemed to be having to point out a mistake to them on every play, Friendswood didn't give up. Even when the down markers showed 3rd down and almost 40 yards to go, they didn't give up. They played just as hard as if it were first and goal. I love that about Friendswood. Tonight, I liked seeing the players take the opportunity to make decisions and change plays when the play wasn't unfolding the way they thought it would. That shows that our coaches have really taught the players to understand the game as well as how to think through what's happening and what's about to happen. I liked seeing that on running plays, the ball carriers have figured out that usually, going around the defense is more efficient than going through them. The newest version of Friendswood defense is "gelling" much faster than I thought they would, and that's a great sight. While I still disagree on some of the defensive tactics, to see them playing as a unit is a great thing. And I loved watching the defense give their JJ Watt impersonations. Sacking quarterbacks, batting down passes, intercepting passes (even if the ref was somehow unable to see it), was a great thing. Defense - you are already a group to be feared by your opponents, keep improving and more than just the Houston area will hear about you. Keep reading to see which players earned "attaboys" tonight.
So what didn't go right. Unfortunately a lot of things. I realize that referees who can't/won't take charge and call a fair game is something that they players can not change. But there were some other things that the team/coaches can change. First, even though the defense is showing greatly improved tackling technique, great timing and great reading of the opposing offense, I still feel like our defense plays too far off the receivers. If you've read my blog before, you know this is something I've been complaining about for years. Why do the defense coaches think this is a good idea? I realize that it allows you to spread your defense out more, and cover more area. But the problem with tackling the receiver right after he catches the ball is that all those completed passes move the chains and get the ball into the end zone. The Mustangs have a stellar defense, why not teach them to completely shut down the passing game as opposed to slowing it down. The defense has finally learned to consistently tackle correctly. They have finally learned to read an offense. Why not force your opponent to run the ball? Our run defense is already good, not perfect, but good. Take the passing game away and your opponent's after-game stats will be even less impressive. The main problem in the defense stopping the run game is allowing the opponent to run up the middle. That has definitely gotten better, but it still continues to be a problem. I realize that the running back for Brazoswood is the size of a tank, which is why I'm not going to spend too much time on this, but the defense needs to learn to do a better job of closing those gaps.
On the opposite side of the ball, the offense gave the fans quite a scare tonight. The first snap of the game was too low, and recovered by Brazoswood. There was only one other bad snap that I saw tonight. Not perfect, but a good improvement from previous games. There were a few other incomplete passes, but it was good to see the offense "spreading the love". I still think that can be done more, but it was an improvement. The biggest problem the offense had tonight was penalties. Not all of them were deserved, but some were. And that leads me into the ugly portion of tonight's game.
Does anyone know what the record is for most penalties in a game. I wasn't able to find that information on bing, but I did find the most penalties in a college game - 36. By my count, there were 33 flags thrown tonight. I don't know that I've ever seen anything like it For a while, there was a flag on every play. And some of the plays that didn't get flagged should have. Many people know that unfair reffing, and refs who don't enforce the rules that are designed to keep players safe is one of my soapbox issues. How do people sleep at night knowing that they either put players at risk of being hurt or by being so biased that you are blatantly helping one team over the other. Whether you are a paid referee or a volunteer. Whether you are officiating in a football game, basketball game, or any other sport. How can you look at yourself in the mirror each day and be confident in the person you are if you are cheating or putting kids at risk of a serious injury. Now, I realize that referees are human and therefore imperfect. I'm not talking about making a mistake. I'm talking about obvious, blatant dishonesty.
Tonight's refs need to be looked at by their governing body. They allowed play to continue after a helmet had gone flying from the player being hit so hard. They ruled interceptions incomplete passes. Ruled fumbles as down by contact (yeah, contact with invisible players). They waited way too long to blow the whistle at the end of the play and then threw flags when fights broke out. They made mistakes that benefited both teams, but they seemed to be trying to help out Brazoswood as much as possible. The two words that come to mind for this crew are sad an pathetic.
I am about to fall asleep as I type this, so I will give credit where credit is due, call it a night, and reread and finish this entry tomorrow. This week's "attaboys" go to; Page, Crespo, Longbotham, White, King, Langston, Robinson, Lowe, Beaty, Roenne, Thurman, Chidester, and the entire O-Line.
The final score of tonight's game was Friendswood 35 - Brazoswood 20. The next game for Friendswood will be homecoming against Clear Springs. Be there!
Updated 10/4/2014
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by twittering during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
I did some reading about the Buccaneers before tonight's game and was not really expecting what I saw.
Before I get into the good, the bad, and the ugly; I want to share an observation over the last couple of years. I've noticed that it has become more common that the band, cheerleaders, and drill team of the away team (not specifically speaking about one particular school), to often be late to the game. Late enough to miss the playing of their school song. Why is that? Are there transportation issues preventing the buses from picking up these support groups in order for them to be on time? Are schools not allowing the students to leave in a timely fashion? Do leaders/directors not consider being present for the school song before the game a priority? Why? I have to say that I don't like it. The purpose of those groups being at football games in to support the football team and to provide halftime entertainment. Watching the varsity team take the field, seeing the cheerleaders and drill team cheer the players on and hearing silence from the band isn't what should be happening at a Texas High School Football game. I would like to ask the leaders of these groups to please do everything in your power to get your students in place in time for them to be introduced before the game, play the school song, and cheer for the players as they take the field.
And now for what happened on the field tonight. Since it's always more motivating to get patted on the back before your mistakes are pointed out, I'll start with the good. Friendswood players always play with heart. It's one of the things I love about high school football. Tonight, even when the refs seemed to be doing a terrible job; and Coach Koopman seemed to be having to point out a mistake to them on every play, Friendswood didn't give up. Even when the down markers showed 3rd down and almost 40 yards to go, they didn't give up. They played just as hard as if it were first and goal. I love that about Friendswood. Tonight, I liked seeing the players take the opportunity to make decisions and change plays when the play wasn't unfolding the way they thought it would. That shows that our coaches have really taught the players to understand the game as well as how to think through what's happening and what's about to happen. I liked seeing that on running plays, the ball carriers have figured out that usually, going around the defense is more efficient than going through them. The newest version of Friendswood defense is "gelling" much faster than I thought they would, and that's a great sight. While I still disagree on some of the defensive tactics, to see them playing as a unit is a great thing. And I loved watching the defense give their JJ Watt impersonations. Sacking quarterbacks, batting down passes, intercepting passes (even if the ref was somehow unable to see it), was a great thing. Defense - you are already a group to be feared by your opponents, keep improving and more than just the Houston area will hear about you. Keep reading to see which players earned "attaboys" tonight.
So what didn't go right. Unfortunately a lot of things. I realize that referees who can't/won't take charge and call a fair game is something that they players can not change. But there were some other things that the team/coaches can change. First, even though the defense is showing greatly improved tackling technique, great timing and great reading of the opposing offense, I still feel like our defense plays too far off the receivers. If you've read my blog before, you know this is something I've been complaining about for years. Why do the defense coaches think this is a good idea? I realize that it allows you to spread your defense out more, and cover more area. But the problem with tackling the receiver right after he catches the ball is that all those completed passes move the chains and get the ball into the end zone. The Mustangs have a stellar defense, why not teach them to completely shut down the passing game as opposed to slowing it down. The defense has finally learned to consistently tackle correctly. They have finally learned to read an offense. Why not force your opponent to run the ball? Our run defense is already good, not perfect, but good. Take the passing game away and your opponent's after-game stats will be even less impressive. The main problem in the defense stopping the run game is allowing the opponent to run up the middle. That has definitely gotten better, but it still continues to be a problem. I realize that the running back for Brazoswood is the size of a tank, which is why I'm not going to spend too much time on this, but the defense needs to learn to do a better job of closing those gaps.
On the opposite side of the ball, the offense gave the fans quite a scare tonight. The first snap of the game was too low, and recovered by Brazoswood. There was only one other bad snap that I saw tonight. Not perfect, but a good improvement from previous games. There were a few other incomplete passes, but it was good to see the offense "spreading the love". I still think that can be done more, but it was an improvement. The biggest problem the offense had tonight was penalties. Not all of them were deserved, but some were. And that leads me into the ugly portion of tonight's game.
Does anyone know what the record is for most penalties in a game. I wasn't able to find that information on bing, but I did find the most penalties in a college game - 36. By my count, there were 33 flags thrown tonight. I don't know that I've ever seen anything like it For a while, there was a flag on every play. And some of the plays that didn't get flagged should have. Many people know that unfair reffing, and refs who don't enforce the rules that are designed to keep players safe is one of my soapbox issues. How do people sleep at night knowing that they either put players at risk of being hurt or by being so biased that you are blatantly helping one team over the other. Whether you are a paid referee or a volunteer. Whether you are officiating in a football game, basketball game, or any other sport. How can you look at yourself in the mirror each day and be confident in the person you are if you are cheating or putting kids at risk of a serious injury. Now, I realize that referees are human and therefore imperfect. I'm not talking about making a mistake. I'm talking about obvious, blatant dishonesty.
Tonight's refs need to be looked at by their governing body. They allowed play to continue after a helmet had gone flying from the player being hit so hard. They ruled interceptions incomplete passes. Ruled fumbles as down by contact (yeah, contact with invisible players). They waited way too long to blow the whistle at the end of the play and then threw flags when fights broke out. They made mistakes that benefited both teams, but they seemed to be trying to help out Brazoswood as much as possible. The two words that come to mind for this crew are sad an pathetic.
I am about to fall asleep as I type this, so I will give credit where credit is due, call it a night, and reread and finish this entry tomorrow. This week's "attaboys" go to; Page, Crespo, Longbotham, White, King, Langston, Robinson, Lowe, Beaty, Roenne, Thurman, Chidester, and the entire O-Line.
The final score of tonight's game was Friendswood 35 - Brazoswood 20. The next game for Friendswood will be homecoming against Clear Springs. Be there!
Updated 10/4/2014
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by twittering during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Clear Falls Knights vs. Friendswood Mustangs - September 26, 2014
On Friday, September 26, 2014, the Friendswood Mustangs hosted the Clear Falls Knights. This was the first 6A district game for Friendswood and Friendswood's annual Patriotic Halftime show.
The 2014 varsity Friendswood Mustangs, ver. 2.0, came out of the field house sporting new uniforms while the speakers outside the inflatable tunnel played AC/DC's Back in Black. The team did a great job keeping this secret. I read something that made me thing something was up, but I thought that the team was going for a black out in the stands, similar to previous pink outs, blue outs and white outs. I knew that wasn't it, because no organization was selling a black out t-shirt. I loved the new uniforms, as did everyone I talked to. The numbers are still difficult to read, but not any worse than the other jerseys that the Mustangs have worn this season. I can't wait to see what the away uniforms look like this coming Friday.
This district opener came after a bye week for the Mustangs, and that bye week couldn't have come at a better time. The Mustangs sustained several injuries at the game against Kingwood two weeks earlier and the bye week gave the players time to recover. Unfortunately, one of those players is unable to recover from his injury and will be out for the season, after his ankle surgery earlier in the week.
The starting defense on Friday was not the same set of guys who took the field in the first game of the season. That was obvious early. Don't get me wrong, the defense is still good, they are still strong, and they are still powerful. But with the changes, they seem to be still trying to gel into a cohesive unit. It seemed like the original starters had played together enough that they knew what the other were going to do in any given situation, even before the other players moved. This new starting defense is still learning to read each other's minds. I'm sure that it will come with time. Each player has the necessary tools, but they have to spend as much time together as possible to learn how the others think, how they move and how they play.
The defense, while playing well, still needs to work on how they cover receivers. They are very good at stopping the receivers after they catch the ball, but now we've learned that they can catch interceptions. I'd like to see more interceptions and more passes batted away or knocked down as opposed to stopping the receiver after the catch. Stopping them after the catch still moves the chains and still allows your opponent into the end zone.
On offense, there were some new faces under the Friday night lights, but none of them are new to Friendswood football. As usual, Friday night's offense was the Page and Longbotham show. Both guys are very good. Both are very versitle. But there are so many options available to the Mustangs that the play callers are not utilizing. I can count the number of passes Friday using my fingers. I realize that some of the receivers haven't been consistent, but I've also seen some of the younger receivers warm up, and I watched them when they were on sub-varsity squads. I know they can catch. I wish the Mustangs would use a more rounded approach to offense. Utilizing the same players all night long, while effective, will give your opponents too much to prepare with and will overuse the players, making them less effective later in the season. The "center - quarterback exchange" needs work. Each game there has been more bad snaps than the previous game. They are going backward instead of improving. The only way I know to fix it is repetition. Whatever it takes to fix it, do it. That is costing the offense way too many yards. And when we go up against Creek or Dickinson, those mistakes could cost you points.
Special team - well, let's just say they look the same as always. If you've been watching Mustang football for any length of time, you know what that means.
Something the players did that I thought was really cool - when the players entered the field after halftime, leading the pack was Lockwood, being pushed in his wheelchair by his teammates. He had surgery for an injury earlier in the week, but he was still at the game, and still included by the other players - Loved it!
If you just read this, and didn't see the game, you would think that the Mustangs got beat, bad. Not the case at all. The box score is below. The Mustangs took care of business. Longbotham gave a tackle breaking lesson; Page gave a duck and run lesson; Robinson showed his JJ Watt impersonation; and Chidester showed the rest of the defense how to catch an interception. Many players deserve attaboys this week, including; Page, Longbotham, King, Chidester, Robinson, Rollen, Langston, & White.
Box Score 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Final
Clear Falls Knights 0 0 7 7 14
Friendswood Mustangs 7 14 7 10 38
Last week, with Friendswood having a bye week, we decided to support friends in the neighboring town and went to the Pearland game. Watching that game was so different from watching a Friendswood game. The fans didn't seem nearly as involved or as invested in the game as what we are used to in Friendswood. Part of that may have been because the game was a serious mismatch. After the game, we hadn't even left the stadium when we realized that the refs didn't throw a single flag during the entire game. Now imagine that Mustang fans, an entire game without a penalty. You can't imagine it, can you? I didn't know it was possible. I know I had never seen it before. Unfortunately, I just can't see the details on the field well enough to argue whether Friendswood actually deserves all the penalties called against the team. But seeing a game with no penalties, and a week later seeing a game where no more than three game clock minutes elapse between penalties, it makes me wonder if it's really a difference in teams or a difference in officials. Just something to think about, . . .
On Friday, October 3, 2014, the Friendswood Mustangs will travel to Brazoswood to take on the Buccaneers. If my memory is correct, this will be the first time to two teams have met since 2009. What I have read about Brazoswood and what I've seen on their scoreboards don't coincide. I can't wait to see how the Mustangs 2.0 improve over then next week and what the truth is about Brazoswood.
The 2014 varsity Friendswood Mustangs, ver. 2.0, came out of the field house sporting new uniforms while the speakers outside the inflatable tunnel played AC/DC's Back in Black. The team did a great job keeping this secret. I read something that made me thing something was up, but I thought that the team was going for a black out in the stands, similar to previous pink outs, blue outs and white outs. I knew that wasn't it, because no organization was selling a black out t-shirt. I loved the new uniforms, as did everyone I talked to. The numbers are still difficult to read, but not any worse than the other jerseys that the Mustangs have worn this season. I can't wait to see what the away uniforms look like this coming Friday.
This district opener came after a bye week for the Mustangs, and that bye week couldn't have come at a better time. The Mustangs sustained several injuries at the game against Kingwood two weeks earlier and the bye week gave the players time to recover. Unfortunately, one of those players is unable to recover from his injury and will be out for the season, after his ankle surgery earlier in the week.
The starting defense on Friday was not the same set of guys who took the field in the first game of the season. That was obvious early. Don't get me wrong, the defense is still good, they are still strong, and they are still powerful. But with the changes, they seem to be still trying to gel into a cohesive unit. It seemed like the original starters had played together enough that they knew what the other were going to do in any given situation, even before the other players moved. This new starting defense is still learning to read each other's minds. I'm sure that it will come with time. Each player has the necessary tools, but they have to spend as much time together as possible to learn how the others think, how they move and how they play.
The defense, while playing well, still needs to work on how they cover receivers. They are very good at stopping the receivers after they catch the ball, but now we've learned that they can catch interceptions. I'd like to see more interceptions and more passes batted away or knocked down as opposed to stopping the receiver after the catch. Stopping them after the catch still moves the chains and still allows your opponent into the end zone.
On offense, there were some new faces under the Friday night lights, but none of them are new to Friendswood football. As usual, Friday night's offense was the Page and Longbotham show. Both guys are very good. Both are very versitle. But there are so many options available to the Mustangs that the play callers are not utilizing. I can count the number of passes Friday using my fingers. I realize that some of the receivers haven't been consistent, but I've also seen some of the younger receivers warm up, and I watched them when they were on sub-varsity squads. I know they can catch. I wish the Mustangs would use a more rounded approach to offense. Utilizing the same players all night long, while effective, will give your opponents too much to prepare with and will overuse the players, making them less effective later in the season. The "center - quarterback exchange" needs work. Each game there has been more bad snaps than the previous game. They are going backward instead of improving. The only way I know to fix it is repetition. Whatever it takes to fix it, do it. That is costing the offense way too many yards. And when we go up against Creek or Dickinson, those mistakes could cost you points.
Special team - well, let's just say they look the same as always. If you've been watching Mustang football for any length of time, you know what that means.
Something the players did that I thought was really cool - when the players entered the field after halftime, leading the pack was Lockwood, being pushed in his wheelchair by his teammates. He had surgery for an injury earlier in the week, but he was still at the game, and still included by the other players - Loved it!
If you just read this, and didn't see the game, you would think that the Mustangs got beat, bad. Not the case at all. The box score is below. The Mustangs took care of business. Longbotham gave a tackle breaking lesson; Page gave a duck and run lesson; Robinson showed his JJ Watt impersonation; and Chidester showed the rest of the defense how to catch an interception. Many players deserve attaboys this week, including; Page, Longbotham, King, Chidester, Robinson, Rollen, Langston, & White.
Box Score 1st 2nd 3rd 4th Final
Clear Falls Knights 0 0 7 7 14
Friendswood Mustangs 7 14 7 10 38
Last week, with Friendswood having a bye week, we decided to support friends in the neighboring town and went to the Pearland game. Watching that game was so different from watching a Friendswood game. The fans didn't seem nearly as involved or as invested in the game as what we are used to in Friendswood. Part of that may have been because the game was a serious mismatch. After the game, we hadn't even left the stadium when we realized that the refs didn't throw a single flag during the entire game. Now imagine that Mustang fans, an entire game without a penalty. You can't imagine it, can you? I didn't know it was possible. I know I had never seen it before. Unfortunately, I just can't see the details on the field well enough to argue whether Friendswood actually deserves all the penalties called against the team. But seeing a game with no penalties, and a week later seeing a game where no more than three game clock minutes elapse between penalties, it makes me wonder if it's really a difference in teams or a difference in officials. Just something to think about, . . .
On Friday, October 3, 2014, the Friendswood Mustangs will travel to Brazoswood to take on the Buccaneers. If my memory is correct, this will be the first time to two teams have met since 2009. What I have read about Brazoswood and what I've seen on their scoreboards don't coincide. I can't wait to see how the Mustangs 2.0 improve over then next week and what the truth is about Brazoswood.
Friday, September 5, 2014
George Ranch Longhorns vs. Friendswood Mustangs - September 5, 2014
On September 5, 2014, the Friendswood Mustangs hosted the George Ranch Longhorns. This was the first meeting for these two teams. This was also Channel 13's game of the week. George Ranch entered this contest ranked 5th in the state for 5A. Friendswood was not ranked in 6A.
Friendswood came into this game a little cocky, and it showed. Don't get me wrong. Friendswood is very good. But being overconfident can be a problem; as the Mustangs saw tonight. Once the Mustangs realized that there was a very real chance that they could lose, they started playing much harder.
Before the game even began, and increasingly throughout the game, I wondered if the mosquito truck had been by. Even with deep woods off and cutter, we were still all being eaten alive. Some more than others.
And now, for the game. This game was decided within the last minute. Both defenses played huge roles in the game. Even though defense doesn't typically score points, and therefore can't win the game; tonight, each teams defense was stout and controlled more of the games than the offense did. Both teams were able to see what areas need work and what areas they should not mess with.
On what areas should Friendswood spend more time? Kick returns are in a definite need of work. This is our 8th season to live in Friendswood and this is an area that has plagued Friendswood for most of those years. Friendswood seems to struggle on both sides of the ball when it comes to returning a kick off or a punt. Guys, if you want to know how it should be done, watch this film and watch what George Ranch did. The Longhorns were very good at blocking for their ball carriers and creating holes for them to run through. The middle of Friendswood's defensive line also needs to learn how to stand their ground. The Longhorns were able to create way too many holes tonight and their ball carriers took advantage of those holes. Thankfully, Friendswood's secondary knew what to do to prevent most of those from being breakaway plays. It's not always about who is bigger. Sometimes, it's about who can use his size better. I wish I could give you a good example of who to watch for this type of thing. I know there are some really good teams and really good players who don't get pushed around and know how to stand their ground. But right now, I'm not able to come up with any. When I remember a good example, I'll edit this entry.
Something else to work on is that Friendswood's offense needs to diversify. The play callers seemed to be falling victim to "Van Meter Disease" tonight. Especially toward the end of the game. If you are new to reading my blog, Van Meter Disease" occurs when a play caller calls the same play over and over and over and over. It gets to a point, when the disease is chronic, that the only time the play goes well is when things don't happen as expected. It's similar to Einsten's definition of insanity. Granted, in the last 2 minutes of the game, there were some new plays. And they usually worked because George Ranch hadn't already figured out what was about to happen. No team should be so repetitive that the opposing defense knows what's coming and how to stop it without having to even look at the offense.
Friendswood needs to learn to play tighter on the receivers. Don't get me wrong. Freindswood's defense is one of the best I've ever seen. But waiting to make a play until after the pass is caught means that the opponents still get the first down. Last week and this week I saw some hard hits delivered to receivers by the Mustang defense. But those hits all came just after the receiver caught the ball and earned the first down. Why not try to breakup the pass? Why, instead, do you give receivers a few yards cushion, then make a diving drive into him to prevent him from gaining more yards? Friendswood has had some players who were really good at this. Watch old film with an analytical mind and you'll see it.
After reading all this, I'm sure you're wondering how in the world Friendswood won if they played so bad. They didn't play bad, at all. I just like to get the "needs improvement" section of my blog done first before I start praising players. It helps people to appreciate the "pat on the back" a little more.
Friendswood has a great defense. I think I may have already said that, but if not, I'll say it again. Friendswood has a great defense. The defense wasn't able to read the George Ranch offense as well as they were in Texas City. But I don't know if I've ever seen a team fake as well as George Ranch did tonight. Guys, when I say that our players need to work on their acting skills, this is what I mean. How many times did Friendswood tackle the wrong guy? How many times were the fans fooled into thinking the wrong person had the ball. Yes, this sounds like something Friendswood needs to work on, but really it's just that George Ranch was that good at it.
Friendswood doesn't give up. Even when our guys were down by 13, they didn't let up. They just down shifted and kept going. When the offense blocked for our ball carriers, they blocked well. Friendswood has well rounded football players who can play multiple positions and play them well. I've heard it said that people struggle in sports when they move to Friendswood because we have so many talented players who work very hard to be the best at what they do and who are very versitle within their sport(s). Friendswood High School is blessed in that they have a great talent pool to pull from. They may, in part, be due to the year that so many players got hurt during preseason that by the time district rolled around, there were more JV players suited up on the sidelines on Friday nights than there were varsity players. Whatever the reason is behind it, Friendswood has a much more rounded athletic program. And it shows. I saw a few people playing positions that they don't normally play and running plays that someone else normally runs. And they did those jobs well.
There was also a great improvement to the passing game this week. Whatever y'all did in practice this week, keep doing it.
This week's attaboys go to: Robinson, Longbotham, Vandersypen, Page, Langston, King, White, Rollen, Crespo, and Chidester.
The final score for the game was George Ranch Longhorns 35 - Friendswood Mustangs 38. Next week, the Mustangs will play a rare Thursday game against Kingwood at Turner Stadium. This should be an interesting game. I know nothing about Kingwood, except that their colors are blue and white and they are the Mustangs. Guess I'll have to do some studying this week.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by twittering during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
Friendswood came into this game a little cocky, and it showed. Don't get me wrong. Friendswood is very good. But being overconfident can be a problem; as the Mustangs saw tonight. Once the Mustangs realized that there was a very real chance that they could lose, they started playing much harder.
Before the game even began, and increasingly throughout the game, I wondered if the mosquito truck had been by. Even with deep woods off and cutter, we were still all being eaten alive. Some more than others.
And now, for the game. This game was decided within the last minute. Both defenses played huge roles in the game. Even though defense doesn't typically score points, and therefore can't win the game; tonight, each teams defense was stout and controlled more of the games than the offense did. Both teams were able to see what areas need work and what areas they should not mess with.
On what areas should Friendswood spend more time? Kick returns are in a definite need of work. This is our 8th season to live in Friendswood and this is an area that has plagued Friendswood for most of those years. Friendswood seems to struggle on both sides of the ball when it comes to returning a kick off or a punt. Guys, if you want to know how it should be done, watch this film and watch what George Ranch did. The Longhorns were very good at blocking for their ball carriers and creating holes for them to run through. The middle of Friendswood's defensive line also needs to learn how to stand their ground. The Longhorns were able to create way too many holes tonight and their ball carriers took advantage of those holes. Thankfully, Friendswood's secondary knew what to do to prevent most of those from being breakaway plays. It's not always about who is bigger. Sometimes, it's about who can use his size better. I wish I could give you a good example of who to watch for this type of thing. I know there are some really good teams and really good players who don't get pushed around and know how to stand their ground. But right now, I'm not able to come up with any. When I remember a good example, I'll edit this entry.
Something else to work on is that Friendswood's offense needs to diversify. The play callers seemed to be falling victim to "Van Meter Disease" tonight. Especially toward the end of the game. If you are new to reading my blog, Van Meter Disease" occurs when a play caller calls the same play over and over and over and over. It gets to a point, when the disease is chronic, that the only time the play goes well is when things don't happen as expected. It's similar to Einsten's definition of insanity. Granted, in the last 2 minutes of the game, there were some new plays. And they usually worked because George Ranch hadn't already figured out what was about to happen. No team should be so repetitive that the opposing defense knows what's coming and how to stop it without having to even look at the offense.
Friendswood needs to learn to play tighter on the receivers. Don't get me wrong. Freindswood's defense is one of the best I've ever seen. But waiting to make a play until after the pass is caught means that the opponents still get the first down. Last week and this week I saw some hard hits delivered to receivers by the Mustang defense. But those hits all came just after the receiver caught the ball and earned the first down. Why not try to breakup the pass? Why, instead, do you give receivers a few yards cushion, then make a diving drive into him to prevent him from gaining more yards? Friendswood has had some players who were really good at this. Watch old film with an analytical mind and you'll see it.
After reading all this, I'm sure you're wondering how in the world Friendswood won if they played so bad. They didn't play bad, at all. I just like to get the "needs improvement" section of my blog done first before I start praising players. It helps people to appreciate the "pat on the back" a little more.
Friendswood has a great defense. I think I may have already said that, but if not, I'll say it again. Friendswood has a great defense. The defense wasn't able to read the George Ranch offense as well as they were in Texas City. But I don't know if I've ever seen a team fake as well as George Ranch did tonight. Guys, when I say that our players need to work on their acting skills, this is what I mean. How many times did Friendswood tackle the wrong guy? How many times were the fans fooled into thinking the wrong person had the ball. Yes, this sounds like something Friendswood needs to work on, but really it's just that George Ranch was that good at it.
Friendswood doesn't give up. Even when our guys were down by 13, they didn't let up. They just down shifted and kept going. When the offense blocked for our ball carriers, they blocked well. Friendswood has well rounded football players who can play multiple positions and play them well. I've heard it said that people struggle in sports when they move to Friendswood because we have so many talented players who work very hard to be the best at what they do and who are very versitle within their sport(s). Friendswood High School is blessed in that they have a great talent pool to pull from. They may, in part, be due to the year that so many players got hurt during preseason that by the time district rolled around, there were more JV players suited up on the sidelines on Friday nights than there were varsity players. Whatever the reason is behind it, Friendswood has a much more rounded athletic program. And it shows. I saw a few people playing positions that they don't normally play and running plays that someone else normally runs. And they did those jobs well.
There was also a great improvement to the passing game this week. Whatever y'all did in practice this week, keep doing it.
This week's attaboys go to: Robinson, Longbotham, Vandersypen, Page, Langston, King, White, Rollen, Crespo, and Chidester.
The final score for the game was George Ranch Longhorns 35 - Friendswood Mustangs 38. Next week, the Mustangs will play a rare Thursday game against Kingwood at Turner Stadium. This should be an interesting game. I know nothing about Kingwood, except that their colors are blue and white and they are the Mustangs. Guess I'll have to do some studying this week.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by twittering during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Friendswood Mustangs vs. Texas City Stingarees - August 29, 2014
On Friday, August 29, the Friendswood Mustangs traveled to Texas City to open the football season against the Stingarees. There was a light rain off and on throughout the game. The Friendswood band and Wranglerettes left after halftime due to the weather; but the majority of the fans stayed and got to see a good football game.
Tonight was the first time that Friendswood has played a game with the new 40 second play clock. I haven't had the opportunity to hear from any of the players or coaches to see how they felt about it, but from the perspective of a fan and blogger - I don't like it. First, I don't understand why they felt the need to make this change. I understand that the NCAA has been using the 40 second play clock for quite a while now; but why does that mean that the UIL has to use it, too. This caused the game to move too quickly. It was liking watching a game that has been DVR'd and cutting through everything but the actual plays. It just felt wrong. It also made it difficult for me to keep up with twitter. I have fast thumbs, especially during a football game; but they are going to have to get faster. I did notice that toward the end of the game, there were a lot of situations where the refs were starting the play clock. When the ref starts the clock, the clock starts at 25 seconds - just as it has. This was a much better pace for the game. It gave the offense the option to hurry things along, or to breathe a little between plays.
So, how did Friendswood play tonight? Well, there are some guys who had a great night. There are some who didn't have such a great night. And there were guys who were having to work harder than they should have because others were not doing what needed to be done.
Who didn't have a great night? Well, I saw problems with both the offensive and defensive lines. The people backing up those lines stepped up and took care of business. But in order to play in the big leagues, which is where Friendswood is now, those lines can not allow themselves to be pushed around to maneuvered out of the place they want to be. Offensive line, you've got to open those holes and block for your ball carriers. Defensive line, you can't allow your opponent to get through you. If that doesn't get fixed immediately, then next Friday will be a long, long night.
That being said, the offense did do a good job of protecting the quarterback and giving him time to find open receivers and make decisions. Some of those decisions I would love to chat with them about, wondering why they felt that was the best decision over some other options that were available. But having time to make those decisions is incredibly important.
Tonight, Friendswood used a two quarterback system similar to what Manvel used a couple of years ago. I understand why this decision was made. Both Sargent and Page are great quarterbacks with different skill sets. However, the implementation of this scheme didn't work out so well. The problem - it didn't take long to figure out which quarterback prefers to run and which prefers to pass. The defense was able to set up accordingly, knowing what type of play was most likely about to occur, simply based on which quarterback was on the field. Now, it wasn't like they were switching them in and out every other play. They each would play for a possession. However, it was easy to anticipate what was coming based on which quarterback was on the field. In order for this two quarterback system to be effective, it needs to be less predictable.
Something else that needs work is the receivers. Did anyone count how many dropped passes there were tonight? I'm not counting the almost interceptions that were dropped. I'm talking about players who had the ball and dropped it. Players who were the intended target of the pass and juggled and dropped the ball. Do we really not have anyone who can consistently catch the ball? I have a hard time believing that. Especially knowing who is on the sidelines. The receivers need to spend alot, I mean alot, of time "playing catch". If this isn't able to be fixed with the personnel that was in uniform tonight, then look at the JV teams for help. I saw some great catches from them yesterday.
So, did anything go right tonight? Yes, as evidenced by the score board, somethings did go right. Some of the linebackers and defensive ends had a great game. Their timing was perfect and they often had a perfect read on what the play would be. A few of the people of offense demonstrated that they are still energizer bunnies and don't know the meaning of the word "quit". Some showed why it is important to never, ever, give up on a play. You might think you know how the play is going to end; but until you hear that whistle, it ain't over. There were some interceptions and some near interceptions by the Mustang defense. There were some great stops that were not in line with the defensive style that I have seen from the Mustangs over the last few years - and I liked it. I have often complained about the way the Mustangs defend against the pass. Tonight, I saw a few players breaking that mold and they were very effective.
One thing that most definitely affects the Mustangs (and every other team), but is completely out of their control is the officials. If you've been reading my blog, then you know that I have complained about the officials with increasing regularity. Tonight is no different. Last year's game against Texas City probably had the most fair officials I have seen in the last few years. This year was not the same. Comments I heard from the stands include, "You're missing a good game, ref." and "Call a fair game or someone is going to get hurt." Both of these fans are exactly right. Officials have a responsibility to call a fair game and to do everything in their power to prevent injuries. One way calling a fair game helps to prevent injuries is by letting the players and the coaches know, preferably immediately, that rule infractions will not be tolerated. Many of the rules are put in place to help protect the players. If a rule is not enforced, it is human nature to push the boundaries to see what other rules can be ignored. The more rules that are ignored, the more likely a player is to be injured. This means calling all penalties, regardless of which team it is. Officials, please, please, please, enforce the rules strictly and fairly in every game.
I'm not posting too many details tonight because it was the first game. And because, as evidenced by the score board (see below), it wasn't a typical game. The Mustangs usually score more points than they did tonight and they played differently. Also, Texas City wasn't as commanding as they have been for the last few years. I'm sure the weather also played a factor in the game. While it wasn't raining for most of the game, the turf was wet. Slick turf can be a factor in a game.
Even without the details, I still have to give the well deserved pats on the back to a number of players. This week's attaboys go to: King, Robinson, White, Rollen, Longbotham, Page, Chidester, Gardner, Crespo, Thurman, Clement, & Lowe.
Tonight's box score was
Friendswood 7 3 14 0 24
Texas City 0 0 0 0 0
I am looking forward to the first game in Henry Winston Stadium for this year. The Mustangs will host the George Ranch Longhorns on Friday, September 5, 2014. With what I have read about George Ranch, this looks to be a real test for the Mustangs. Come out and support the boys in blue. Kick off will be at 7pm.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by twittering during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
Tonight was the first time that Friendswood has played a game with the new 40 second play clock. I haven't had the opportunity to hear from any of the players or coaches to see how they felt about it, but from the perspective of a fan and blogger - I don't like it. First, I don't understand why they felt the need to make this change. I understand that the NCAA has been using the 40 second play clock for quite a while now; but why does that mean that the UIL has to use it, too. This caused the game to move too quickly. It was liking watching a game that has been DVR'd and cutting through everything but the actual plays. It just felt wrong. It also made it difficult for me to keep up with twitter. I have fast thumbs, especially during a football game; but they are going to have to get faster. I did notice that toward the end of the game, there were a lot of situations where the refs were starting the play clock. When the ref starts the clock, the clock starts at 25 seconds - just as it has. This was a much better pace for the game. It gave the offense the option to hurry things along, or to breathe a little between plays.
So, how did Friendswood play tonight? Well, there are some guys who had a great night. There are some who didn't have such a great night. And there were guys who were having to work harder than they should have because others were not doing what needed to be done.
Who didn't have a great night? Well, I saw problems with both the offensive and defensive lines. The people backing up those lines stepped up and took care of business. But in order to play in the big leagues, which is where Friendswood is now, those lines can not allow themselves to be pushed around to maneuvered out of the place they want to be. Offensive line, you've got to open those holes and block for your ball carriers. Defensive line, you can't allow your opponent to get through you. If that doesn't get fixed immediately, then next Friday will be a long, long night.
That being said, the offense did do a good job of protecting the quarterback and giving him time to find open receivers and make decisions. Some of those decisions I would love to chat with them about, wondering why they felt that was the best decision over some other options that were available. But having time to make those decisions is incredibly important.
Tonight, Friendswood used a two quarterback system similar to what Manvel used a couple of years ago. I understand why this decision was made. Both Sargent and Page are great quarterbacks with different skill sets. However, the implementation of this scheme didn't work out so well. The problem - it didn't take long to figure out which quarterback prefers to run and which prefers to pass. The defense was able to set up accordingly, knowing what type of play was most likely about to occur, simply based on which quarterback was on the field. Now, it wasn't like they were switching them in and out every other play. They each would play for a possession. However, it was easy to anticipate what was coming based on which quarterback was on the field. In order for this two quarterback system to be effective, it needs to be less predictable.
Something else that needs work is the receivers. Did anyone count how many dropped passes there were tonight? I'm not counting the almost interceptions that were dropped. I'm talking about players who had the ball and dropped it. Players who were the intended target of the pass and juggled and dropped the ball. Do we really not have anyone who can consistently catch the ball? I have a hard time believing that. Especially knowing who is on the sidelines. The receivers need to spend alot, I mean alot, of time "playing catch". If this isn't able to be fixed with the personnel that was in uniform tonight, then look at the JV teams for help. I saw some great catches from them yesterday.
So, did anything go right tonight? Yes, as evidenced by the score board, somethings did go right. Some of the linebackers and defensive ends had a great game. Their timing was perfect and they often had a perfect read on what the play would be. A few of the people of offense demonstrated that they are still energizer bunnies and don't know the meaning of the word "quit". Some showed why it is important to never, ever, give up on a play. You might think you know how the play is going to end; but until you hear that whistle, it ain't over. There were some interceptions and some near interceptions by the Mustang defense. There were some great stops that were not in line with the defensive style that I have seen from the Mustangs over the last few years - and I liked it. I have often complained about the way the Mustangs defend against the pass. Tonight, I saw a few players breaking that mold and they were very effective.
One thing that most definitely affects the Mustangs (and every other team), but is completely out of their control is the officials. If you've been reading my blog, then you know that I have complained about the officials with increasing regularity. Tonight is no different. Last year's game against Texas City probably had the most fair officials I have seen in the last few years. This year was not the same. Comments I heard from the stands include, "You're missing a good game, ref." and "Call a fair game or someone is going to get hurt." Both of these fans are exactly right. Officials have a responsibility to call a fair game and to do everything in their power to prevent injuries. One way calling a fair game helps to prevent injuries is by letting the players and the coaches know, preferably immediately, that rule infractions will not be tolerated. Many of the rules are put in place to help protect the players. If a rule is not enforced, it is human nature to push the boundaries to see what other rules can be ignored. The more rules that are ignored, the more likely a player is to be injured. This means calling all penalties, regardless of which team it is. Officials, please, please, please, enforce the rules strictly and fairly in every game.
I'm not posting too many details tonight because it was the first game. And because, as evidenced by the score board (see below), it wasn't a typical game. The Mustangs usually score more points than they did tonight and they played differently. Also, Texas City wasn't as commanding as they have been for the last few years. I'm sure the weather also played a factor in the game. While it wasn't raining for most of the game, the turf was wet. Slick turf can be a factor in a game.
Even without the details, I still have to give the well deserved pats on the back to a number of players. This week's attaboys go to: King, Robinson, White, Rollen, Longbotham, Page, Chidester, Gardner, Crespo, Thurman, Clement, & Lowe.
Tonight's box score was
Friendswood 7 3 14 0 24
Texas City 0 0 0 0 0
I am looking forward to the first game in Henry Winston Stadium for this year. The Mustangs will host the George Ranch Longhorns on Friday, September 5, 2014. With what I have read about George Ranch, this looks to be a real test for the Mustangs. Come out and support the boys in blue. Kick off will be at 7pm.
Disclaimer: Please keep in mind that I am watching the game and "taking notes" by twittering during the games. I am at each game with one of my kids. Sometimes, my husband is able to attend with us and sometimes I have other family with me as well. My football education is from attending high school football games for 35+ years and sitting between my dad and my grandpa for the first 12 of those years. I was 3 when my parents bought my first season ticket. I missed 2 home games from the time I was 3 years old through junior high, and started traveling (not missing a single game) during high school. I started taking my kids to games before they could walk and have been taking them ever since.
Sunday, November 24, 2013
Stratford Spartans vs. Friendswood Mustangs - November 23, 2013 Playoffs round 2
On Saturday, November 23, 2013, the Friendswood Mustangs hosted the Stratford Spartans at Fort Bend ISD's Mercer Stadium. It was still a great day to be a Mustang, but it was not the Mustangs' day.
Before I get into what went right and what went wrong, let me say thank you to all the seniors. Thank you for your years of contribution to this program. Your influence will be felt after you leave the field house for the last time, thanks to the way you led the younger players. They will continue to look up to you in the years to come. Thank you Collin Faulk, Walker Williams, Slade Holle, Anthony Makransky, Brandon Brower, Cameron Faulk, Garon Stewart, Eric Loll, Nick Flores, Blake Reagan, James Bauer, Brad Rains, Zach Dillon, Garrett Wenzel, Wes Dooley, Ryan Wilcox, Blake Stansberry, Matt Mazza, Mason Cruse, James Richardson, Robert Mejia, Kade Beyer, Hunter Kirkland, Jake Ranostaj, Gatlin Lowe, Alan McNatt, Matt Moffitt, Blake Anderson, Justin Deatherage, Chris Ykac, Carlos Benem, Jordan Pike, Jackson Pruet, and Shawn Scheknecht.
And now, for the good, the bad and the ugly.
I hate having to do this, but I have to start with the Refs. Shame on you! Turning a blind eye to that many rule infractions should never happen in any sport at any level. Whether it's little kids just learning the game, high school varsity sports, or at the professional level. If an athlete doesn't know he/she is doing something wrong, the bad habit or illegal move will not stop. And if the athlete does know that he/she is doing something wrong, receives no consequence for the action and sees his/her team being rewarded as a result; the action will not stop. Why would it? Sports is a metaphor for life. A person must learn to play by the rules in order to have long term success in life. As an official, it is your responsibility to help these athletes learn the game. And in order to do your part in these athlete's education, you must call the game fairly. This was a playoff game. The final score of this game sent one team to the next round. And for the other team, their season is over. How do you sleep at night knowing that your lack of proper officiating could have been the difference that ended the season for the team on the wrong side of the score board? Now, with the way the Mustangs were playing Saturday (and I'm about to get to that), I can't honestly say that fair officiating would have made the difference. But, the score probably would have been much closer. This season I have seen more poor officiating than I have seen in a long time. Why? Is there some sort of shortage resulting in poorly trained officials, or officials who don't take pride in their work? Is there a lack of officials who care about doing a good job? Is the game becoming too complex for the current officials? Do we need more officials on the field to keep a better watch on the game? Do we need less officials? What is the cause in the deterioration of the quality of officiating in varsity football?
And the bad, well, most of the game could qualify for this. Stratford had obviously studied film of Friendswood's games. They knew what the Mustangs were going to do and how to stop it. They knew how to make holes in the Mustang defensive line and how to prevent the Mustang offense from creating holes. The offense did not block for the ball carriers, and the Spartans knew how to take advantage of that. This is a problem that has been seen and previous games. The play callers continued to call plays that didn't work. Someone on the Mustang sideline definitely meets Einstein's definition of insanity. Just because a play worked well against one team does not mean that it will work well against every team. Variety is the spice of life. Keep trying different things if what you think will work, doesn't. Don't give up and don't stick to the same old same old. The preparation by the Mustangs' opponent was made more apparent by the mistakes made by the Mustang offense. At least three fumbled snaps and three or four interceptions thrown. (I think Sargent at least doubled the number of interceptions he threw this season during this one game). And how many passes were incomplete either because the receiver wasn't where he was supposed to be or the ball was thrown to the wrong spot? Did the Mustangs study the Spartans? Just looking at the team stats on the Houston Chronicle's website, I knew that the team preferred to run the ball and was good at intercepting. Before Saturday, their quarterbacks only completed 50-56% of their passes and their defense had 11 interceptions. That completion percentage and interception rate both greatly improved for the Spartans on Saturday.
So that was the ugly and the bad; now for the good. Even in the face of having to play the Spartans with "blind" refs, the Mustangs never gave up. They went out and played each snap like it would be the one to be the difference between winning and losing. And every Mustang should be commended for that. As I previously said, the Mustangs played their hearts out on Saturday. They left it all on the field. Defense - once again you were the heart and soul of the team. You are a unit to be admired and looked up to by future squads of the varsity Mustangs. Seniors, please pass on your knowledge to the younger players. I've been watching high school football for more than three decades (man that makes me sound old), and I've rarely seen a defense that dominant. I know that Saturday was not your day. I don't know if you weren't prepared for Statford's offensive scheme, or if it was just a bad day. But don't let your heads hang for long. You have a lot to be proud of. Special teams + you got to work a lot more than you probably would have liked, but you played smart and consistent all day. Faulk, I know the fans weren't fond of the low punts; but when punting into the wind, that was effective. Whoever's idea that was knew what he was talking about. The Mustang offense worked for every yard they got. They earned each of them. They played two different quarterbacks and brought Williams in from the defense to play receiver for a while. Neither Longbotham nor Vandersypen touched the ball much, but they both dug deep and gave it everything they had on every play to try to get into the end zone. Page is really improving at the quarterback position as well as running and receiving the ball. Sargent didn't have a great day, but he never allowed any frustration he felt to show. He appeared calm and collected through the whole game.
So, what can the Mustangs do to help next season's team go even farther into the playoffs? A lot actually. And as many have said, next season starts today. I waited longer than usual to write this week's blog because of some things I realized while discussing what happened on the way home from the game. I wanted to spend some time thinking and organizing my thoughts before I sat down to type.
The first thing I realized is that, over the season, the quarterbacks become more like robots. This is not a phenomenon that is limited to this season. This is something that has happened many seasons. When the season begins, the quarterback(s) reads the field, sees what his options are, and chooses the best option available. Some quarterbacks have been better at this than others. Sometimes, the quarterback(s) made poor choices. But they seemed to be making choices. As the season progresses, the quarterback(s) appear to be following the play more and making decisions less. And by the time we get to the playoffs, it looks like the quarterback(s) is handing the ball or throwing the ball to the exact place that the play dictates, regardless of who is open, who is under double coverage, or where the intended receiver actually is. Again, this is not an observation that is exclusive to the game against Stratford. This is a trend that I have observed over several seasons. And I usually notice it in the game that knocks the Mustangs out of the running for state. Whether this is intended or not, I believe it is something that is deserving of a second look. It is in the best interest of the each player and the team as a whole to teach the players to think while they are on the field. Yes, have a plan, but allow the players to make adjustments when the intended receiver is under double coverage and someone else is wide open with a clear shot at the end zone. Teach the players to read their opponents, anticipate their opponents, and make decisions. And once you've taught them to do that, trust them to do it. Trust them to follow through with what you have taught them. If the coaches trust the players, the players will trust themselves.
This same principle can be applied to the whole team. Teach them to read, anticipate and make decisions. Or, "Improvise, Adapt and Overcome." Those three words can transform a team of any kind.
The second thing I realized is that the Mustangs seemed to peak in the game against Dawson. The Texas City game was a great game, and with the way the two teams played, it really could have gone either way. But the Dawson game was better. So, the question is, what changed after the Dawson game? Did the team's or coach's attitudes change? Did practice change? Did the time change effect anything? Something changed. And speaking of attitudes; attitudes can be a dangerous thing. Being over confident is just as dangerous as having no confidence. Be sure to remain confident but humble. Nothing is a given, in sports or in life. Know who you are. Know what you can and can't do. And before you take the field, believe that you can do something, not that you will. That attitude will take you far.
To the coaches, as you prepare for next season, please take the time to think on my observations. I am not at your practices, nor on your sidelines. I'm just an observer who can not only see the results of your coaching, but can also read the body language of the people on the field/sidelines. Dismiss what is irrelevant, and make changes based on what is. This is my two cents and is worth exactly that; two cents.
To the players, now that the season is over, you can read all your press that you want to read, and read it all with a grain of salt. Look at your stats and watch your game film. What can you do differently to improve yourself as a player and a person? What did you learn this season? and What can you pass on to younger players?
One more thing that I noticed this season, and I waited until the season was over to comment on this because I didn't want to jinx anyone; but the lack of serious injuries this season was a nice change. And everyone in the organization deserves credit for this. From the sports medicine trainers who help tend to the athletes, the coaches and the weight trainer(s), and the athletes themselves. Whatever you did different this year, please continue.
Don't worry, I didn't forget about the "atta boys" for the Stratford game. The last set of "atta boys" for 2013 go to: Robinson, Loll, Page, Faulk, Longbotham, Vandersypen, Williams, White, Bertlesman, Holle, and Kirkland. Good job guys.
The box score for this game is:
Spartans 6 14 7 7 34
Mustangs 7 0 0 0 7
Football season has come to an end. Time to move onto basketball, or whatever sport you prefer to play next. Only 277 days until we get to watch the Boys in Blue take the field again.
Before I get into what went right and what went wrong, let me say thank you to all the seniors. Thank you for your years of contribution to this program. Your influence will be felt after you leave the field house for the last time, thanks to the way you led the younger players. They will continue to look up to you in the years to come. Thank you Collin Faulk, Walker Williams, Slade Holle, Anthony Makransky, Brandon Brower, Cameron Faulk, Garon Stewart, Eric Loll, Nick Flores, Blake Reagan, James Bauer, Brad Rains, Zach Dillon, Garrett Wenzel, Wes Dooley, Ryan Wilcox, Blake Stansberry, Matt Mazza, Mason Cruse, James Richardson, Robert Mejia, Kade Beyer, Hunter Kirkland, Jake Ranostaj, Gatlin Lowe, Alan McNatt, Matt Moffitt, Blake Anderson, Justin Deatherage, Chris Ykac, Carlos Benem, Jordan Pike, Jackson Pruet, and Shawn Scheknecht.
And now, for the good, the bad and the ugly.
I hate having to do this, but I have to start with the Refs. Shame on you! Turning a blind eye to that many rule infractions should never happen in any sport at any level. Whether it's little kids just learning the game, high school varsity sports, or at the professional level. If an athlete doesn't know he/she is doing something wrong, the bad habit or illegal move will not stop. And if the athlete does know that he/she is doing something wrong, receives no consequence for the action and sees his/her team being rewarded as a result; the action will not stop. Why would it? Sports is a metaphor for life. A person must learn to play by the rules in order to have long term success in life. As an official, it is your responsibility to help these athletes learn the game. And in order to do your part in these athlete's education, you must call the game fairly. This was a playoff game. The final score of this game sent one team to the next round. And for the other team, their season is over. How do you sleep at night knowing that your lack of proper officiating could have been the difference that ended the season for the team on the wrong side of the score board? Now, with the way the Mustangs were playing Saturday (and I'm about to get to that), I can't honestly say that fair officiating would have made the difference. But, the score probably would have been much closer. This season I have seen more poor officiating than I have seen in a long time. Why? Is there some sort of shortage resulting in poorly trained officials, or officials who don't take pride in their work? Is there a lack of officials who care about doing a good job? Is the game becoming too complex for the current officials? Do we need more officials on the field to keep a better watch on the game? Do we need less officials? What is the cause in the deterioration of the quality of officiating in varsity football?
And the bad, well, most of the game could qualify for this. Stratford had obviously studied film of Friendswood's games. They knew what the Mustangs were going to do and how to stop it. They knew how to make holes in the Mustang defensive line and how to prevent the Mustang offense from creating holes. The offense did not block for the ball carriers, and the Spartans knew how to take advantage of that. This is a problem that has been seen and previous games. The play callers continued to call plays that didn't work. Someone on the Mustang sideline definitely meets Einstein's definition of insanity. Just because a play worked well against one team does not mean that it will work well against every team. Variety is the spice of life. Keep trying different things if what you think will work, doesn't. Don't give up and don't stick to the same old same old. The preparation by the Mustangs' opponent was made more apparent by the mistakes made by the Mustang offense. At least three fumbled snaps and three or four interceptions thrown. (I think Sargent at least doubled the number of interceptions he threw this season during this one game). And how many passes were incomplete either because the receiver wasn't where he was supposed to be or the ball was thrown to the wrong spot? Did the Mustangs study the Spartans? Just looking at the team stats on the Houston Chronicle's website, I knew that the team preferred to run the ball and was good at intercepting. Before Saturday, their quarterbacks only completed 50-56% of their passes and their defense had 11 interceptions. That completion percentage and interception rate both greatly improved for the Spartans on Saturday.
So that was the ugly and the bad; now for the good. Even in the face of having to play the Spartans with "blind" refs, the Mustangs never gave up. They went out and played each snap like it would be the one to be the difference between winning and losing. And every Mustang should be commended for that. As I previously said, the Mustangs played their hearts out on Saturday. They left it all on the field. Defense - once again you were the heart and soul of the team. You are a unit to be admired and looked up to by future squads of the varsity Mustangs. Seniors, please pass on your knowledge to the younger players. I've been watching high school football for more than three decades (man that makes me sound old), and I've rarely seen a defense that dominant. I know that Saturday was not your day. I don't know if you weren't prepared for Statford's offensive scheme, or if it was just a bad day. But don't let your heads hang for long. You have a lot to be proud of. Special teams + you got to work a lot more than you probably would have liked, but you played smart and consistent all day. Faulk, I know the fans weren't fond of the low punts; but when punting into the wind, that was effective. Whoever's idea that was knew what he was talking about. The Mustang offense worked for every yard they got. They earned each of them. They played two different quarterbacks and brought Williams in from the defense to play receiver for a while. Neither Longbotham nor Vandersypen touched the ball much, but they both dug deep and gave it everything they had on every play to try to get into the end zone. Page is really improving at the quarterback position as well as running and receiving the ball. Sargent didn't have a great day, but he never allowed any frustration he felt to show. He appeared calm and collected through the whole game.
So, what can the Mustangs do to help next season's team go even farther into the playoffs? A lot actually. And as many have said, next season starts today. I waited longer than usual to write this week's blog because of some things I realized while discussing what happened on the way home from the game. I wanted to spend some time thinking and organizing my thoughts before I sat down to type.
The first thing I realized is that, over the season, the quarterbacks become more like robots. This is not a phenomenon that is limited to this season. This is something that has happened many seasons. When the season begins, the quarterback(s) reads the field, sees what his options are, and chooses the best option available. Some quarterbacks have been better at this than others. Sometimes, the quarterback(s) made poor choices. But they seemed to be making choices. As the season progresses, the quarterback(s) appear to be following the play more and making decisions less. And by the time we get to the playoffs, it looks like the quarterback(s) is handing the ball or throwing the ball to the exact place that the play dictates, regardless of who is open, who is under double coverage, or where the intended receiver actually is. Again, this is not an observation that is exclusive to the game against Stratford. This is a trend that I have observed over several seasons. And I usually notice it in the game that knocks the Mustangs out of the running for state. Whether this is intended or not, I believe it is something that is deserving of a second look. It is in the best interest of the each player and the team as a whole to teach the players to think while they are on the field. Yes, have a plan, but allow the players to make adjustments when the intended receiver is under double coverage and someone else is wide open with a clear shot at the end zone. Teach the players to read their opponents, anticipate their opponents, and make decisions. And once you've taught them to do that, trust them to do it. Trust them to follow through with what you have taught them. If the coaches trust the players, the players will trust themselves.
This same principle can be applied to the whole team. Teach them to read, anticipate and make decisions. Or, "Improvise, Adapt and Overcome." Those three words can transform a team of any kind.
The second thing I realized is that the Mustangs seemed to peak in the game against Dawson. The Texas City game was a great game, and with the way the two teams played, it really could have gone either way. But the Dawson game was better. So, the question is, what changed after the Dawson game? Did the team's or coach's attitudes change? Did practice change? Did the time change effect anything? Something changed. And speaking of attitudes; attitudes can be a dangerous thing. Being over confident is just as dangerous as having no confidence. Be sure to remain confident but humble. Nothing is a given, in sports or in life. Know who you are. Know what you can and can't do. And before you take the field, believe that you can do something, not that you will. That attitude will take you far.
To the coaches, as you prepare for next season, please take the time to think on my observations. I am not at your practices, nor on your sidelines. I'm just an observer who can not only see the results of your coaching, but can also read the body language of the people on the field/sidelines. Dismiss what is irrelevant, and make changes based on what is. This is my two cents and is worth exactly that; two cents.
To the players, now that the season is over, you can read all your press that you want to read, and read it all with a grain of salt. Look at your stats and watch your game film. What can you do differently to improve yourself as a player and a person? What did you learn this season? and What can you pass on to younger players?
One more thing that I noticed this season, and I waited until the season was over to comment on this because I didn't want to jinx anyone; but the lack of serious injuries this season was a nice change. And everyone in the organization deserves credit for this. From the sports medicine trainers who help tend to the athletes, the coaches and the weight trainer(s), and the athletes themselves. Whatever you did different this year, please continue.
Don't worry, I didn't forget about the "atta boys" for the Stratford game. The last set of "atta boys" for 2013 go to: Robinson, Loll, Page, Faulk, Longbotham, Vandersypen, Williams, White, Bertlesman, Holle, and Kirkland. Good job guys.
The box score for this game is:
Spartans 6 14 7 7 34
Mustangs 7 0 0 0 7
Football season has come to an end. Time to move onto basketball, or whatever sport you prefer to play next. Only 277 days until we get to watch the Boys in Blue take the field again.
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