Know The Opponent – JCHS vs. Maryville
Staff Photo by Melanie Fritz
Jefferson County and Maryville will meet on the gridiron tonight, and if Maryville vs Fulton was “Battle Of Champions” this one should at least be billed “Battle of 2-0 teams”.
Maryville on Offense:
Maryville will run primarily a shotgun with 2-backs in the backfield and will try to run it down your throat. Joel Hopkins (#43) is the fast back of the group, but don’t let the speed fool you, if given the chance he will lower the shoulder as well. Running back Jordan Ervin will miss tonight’s game with a concussion, so look for Isaiah Cobb, Randal Cobb’s cousin, to take his carries tonight. Austin Ensley will be the starting QB, but doesn’t throw the ball too particularly well. When Dylan Hopkins comes in at QB, they will run the spread with a “QB Option” and he will keep it much of the time with blazing speed.
Maryville on Defense:
Maryville will run a 4-3 on the defensive side of the ball. The Patriots have to know where TD Blackmon is at all times. The stud linebacker will be in on most all tackles tonight regardless of where they are. Running against the Rebels will be tricky. If you run right at them, don’t look for much at all. Fulton and Heritage both had success with some counter plays and misdirection plays. The secondary for Maryville is where the game could lie. Fulton had some wide open looks in the secondary, and we all know Jefferson County loves to throw the ball.
Prediction:
Maryville is, well Maryville, coached by a former Jefferson County standout, and ranked #1 in the state in 6A. However, look for the Patriots to keep it closer than expected. Going in to the 4th quarter expect it to be a one possession game, but in the end Maryville will pull away. Maryville 42-24.
