Sumrall is still trying to fix the problems with its offense after the Bobcats suffered a 42-0 loss to West Marion last week.
“The defense was just on the field all night,” Sumrall coach Shannon White said. “It was just a bad night offensively. We were just outmatched. Our inside run game was pretty good and much improved. But we could get nothing outside from the passing game or the running game.”
According to White, the plan moving forward is to simplify the offense and hone in on his offense’s strengths.
“I think we need to simplify (the offense),” White said. “We need to make sure we are doing things that our kids are most comfortable doing. We have to improve, from blocking, to the accuracy of throwing, catching the ball and running routes. We are always working on that. I think the biggest thing is to cut down on the number of things we are doing and simplify our offense and try to get great at a few things. Right now, we are below average at a lot of things.”
This week Sumrall will face another tough test against undefeated Newton County (3-0).
“They look real sharp,” White said. “I think they have an outstanding tailback. Defensively they are really just solid. Their special teams are real solid. They have a complete team and play with a lot of enthusiasm. We have got to get this thing turned around and compete. We have to help our defense out. Our defense has played well, despite giving up a lot of points the other night. They were on the field a lot, and for the second week in a row, they have got tired.”
The Cougars have a similar offense to West Marion, as the team throws several short passes. However, the bulk of their offensive production comes from their running back Carlois Walker, who currently has offers from UCF and Army, according to 247sports.
“They have a good running game,” White said. “They are pretty efficient with the short passing game. The key to stopping them is their tailback. He’s just a big kid and an outstanding running back. He’s a hard nose, hard runner and has got speed in the open field.
“They have a tight end, a blocking back, and a running back (in their formations). They usually run two-receiver sets. They are very much like West Marion in the style of offense they run.”
Defensively, Newton County has been dominant as the Cougars have held teams to eight points per game.
“They don’t get out of position,” White said. “They adjust well to formations. They bring a lot of edge pressure, which, if you don’t have a plan for it, then it’s a long night. They bring people off the edge a lot, and they don’t give up big plays. They just don’t. Those guys are all synchronized on defense. They get to the football in a hurry. That’s what you do on defense.”
For White, earning a win this week is crucial in assuring his team stays positive, especially after the Bobcats’ slow start.
“I think it’s important that we remain upbeat,” White said. “Our kids have worked really hard. I know that. We have had a chance to win those first two games, and we didn’t, then we got smoked on Friday. On top of the first two games, that loss has been a shot to the gut for us. We have kids that like football and have enough talent. Once we get good things happening on offense, I think you’ll see a different team.”
