The St. Louis Zoo boasts the most species of captive snakes in America. Is this a sales pitch? Or is this for real? They claim over 150 different species on display. The Columbus Zoo states that they have the largest captive single snake (Python) in their exhibit. I have learned a lot about snakes this season. I have also had a great time in the booth with Summit City Sports, on the sideline talking with great coaches, and on the Around the Fort podcast promoting high school football. Thank you all for the regular season memories this year, and good luck to all teams in their sectionals!
Norwell vs. Columbia City: CC by 1. Norwell is a juggernaut and probably a two-score favorite here. But I am a homer. Sue me! This is the most meaningful game for the Eagles in 12 years. I love Norwell – Luke Graft, Brody Bolyn, and Coach Adam Harder. Those are my dawgs!! Good luck to both squads. But if I don’t pick CC I won’t be allowed back in the press box next week or back to Big G’s for a burger. All love – good luck to both squads in a dogfight for the NE8 crown!
DeKalb vs. Leo: Leo by 14. The Lions are still a good football team. Loeffler is a hoss. The offensive play-calling is awesome. (I saw that pistol wing a couple of plays and about had a heart attack – Coach Doerffler you have won my heart) The defensive alignments and adjustments by Coach Johnny “D” were impressive. They finish strong. As an Eagle fan, I do not want to see Leo again in the playoffs.
New Haven vs. Huntington North: New Haven by 17. Donovan Williams. Mylan “Moonlight” Graham. Guys getting healthier. Tons of playmakers. There we go!
Bellmont vs. East Noble: Bellmont by 1. Yes. I know East Noble is a 3-4 score favorite. But I hate to see a team without a win. East Noble has struggled late this season. Braves, put it all on the line and get that dub baby!!
Scheme note for the week: Usually we talk scheme for the upcoming week. But for this one, I am just blown away by the game I had the privilege to call from the booth on State Road 9 last week. The Eagles got the win and well deserved. But the first annual Pitchfork Rivalry game did not disappoint. CC stuck to its script and did well. They have been nearly unstoppable. But Leo’s Coach Jonny Zolnik was masterful. I loved the offensive looks from both sides. But on the Leo defense the use of multiple fronts and a mix-up of 7, 8, 9 guys in the box. Blitzing. Bailing out. The way Coach Z used Hoeppner to limit the Eagles receiving corps. It was a fantastic game from both sides. And I wanted to tip my cap to all coaches and coordinators involved in that one. Hopefully the annual Pitchfork Rivalry stays tradition for years to come!
