The Indian football team, which dropped from 11th to 17th in Harris rankings after the loss to Liberty on Sept. 19, has an opportunity for redemption tonight hosting Denver City.
“We have the third hardest schedules in Texas,” senior running back Caton Cramer said. “Harder games are helping us learn and prepare for our district games. It’s not just seniors stepping up, but our underclassmen, too.”
With the district opener versus Fort Stockton only two weeks away, the players and coaches must address issues.
“Defensively we have improved practice habits and reaction on the field,” Defensive Coordinator John Richmond said. “They are showing a better understanding of how to adjust and react to their keys on the field, which is allowing them to play faster and more aggressively.”
After breaking the receiver touchdown record last season, other defenses are double-teaming senior Logan McCormick. Offensive Coordinator Brian Poynor said all the attention on McCormick gives other receivers a chance to shine.
“It’s a compliment that they think they need all that to stop me,” McCormick said. “We have a good offense, so others can do the same and can’t be guarded.”
Poyner said the overloading on McCormick highlights other receivers.
“Senior Jordan Garcia has been steady at finding those open spots underneath and keeping drives moving,” Poynor said. “Junior Jaycen Robledo has stepped up as a deep threat, stretching the field and forcing defenses to respect the long ball. Meanwhile, senior Stephen Davis has been a reliable target in the intermediate game, making tough catches across the middle to keep the offense rolling.”
Senior quarterback Dominick Higgins improves weekly, gaining 1,103 passing yards and throwing for 10 touchdowns on the season.
“It’s definitely a lot of weight on my shoulders,” Higgins said. “My teammates motivate me to do well every day and to be the best captain I can be.”
Senior safety Austin Olivas, who has 35 tackles on the season said the key was teamwork.
“I’ve been playing with most of my teammates since third grade.” Olivas said. “As a team we’re close. Everyone says great teams have a close connection, and I agree. We all are doing our best to make this year great.”
