There was a hot time in the old town Friday night
By “Big Joe” Lombardi
Cup ‘O Joe
Don't you love it when a good plan comes together?
We're talking plans plural here...football game plans devised by the Copperas Cove Bulldawg coaching staff for all three phases: offense, defense and special teams. Boy, did they come together last Friday at the Dawg Pound.
In case you haven't heard by now, the Bulldawgs doused that sour taste of five losses with a big swallow of Gatorade, once the stadium clock hit 0:00 and showed the Dawgs ahead of Killeen 56-33. It had been a while, close to a year, since head coach Jason Hammett got an on-field, post-game shower like that and I'll bet he didn't mind one bit.
Those fans who were there and it was the best crowd so far of this season, got to watch a total team effort. We knew the offense could score points and they did...in batches. Our special teams lit the scoreboard on a blocked punt for six, but this week's Joey Award must go to the Bulldawg defense.
Sure, the Kangaroos put some points up, but Bulldawg defenders did their part to stop any bleeding that occurred with two interceptions, hard-nosed tackling, plus dialing up four Killeen turnovers total. Cove defensive coordinator Gary Carpenter had to be a happy camper after his crew's best showing through six games.
All that being said and with the celebrating over, it's time to forget it.
The Killeen game is over and done with, a part of ancient history. There's another contest to be played under Bulldawg Stadium's Friday Night Lights this week with the Ellison Eagles coming to town.
Believe me when I say the green and white will have fire in their eyes when they get here after the spanking Temple gave them. Those Eagles have one of the best defensive lines in these parts, along with playmakers that can score from anywhere on the field. Our coaches are reminding the team of that, so all concerned are aware of the stakes involved.
You and your family need to be part of this team if you're not already. Get your elementary school kids signed up to be a Bleacher Creature to run out before the team. Get your reserved seat tickets early so you don't miss a play. Polish up your cowbells and make noise...lots of it!
There's still lots of football to be played, starting with this Friday. Remember what the immortal Yogi Berra said...
"It ain't over 'til it's over."
And it's a long way from being over.
Go Dawgs!