[EKUAlum05]

Question for Belfy fans.... How did Russell's defense look compared to other Pirate opponents this year? It seemed like they limited the big plays aside from the TD pass and the long run that was called back.

Better than most. A lot of teams take the Pikeville model of cutting the linemen to clog the middle then pushing hard from the outside edges. The positive with this style is if you can execute it to perfection you create stops and turnovers, but the drawback is if one person misses an assignment or tackle Belfry is off to the races.

Russell did a good job of keeping everything in front of them and Russell's LB's and S's did a great job of making tackles at the 2nd level. The problem is Belfry is very adept at scoring on long drives as they are on the home run and the Pirates simply took what Russell gave them.

They were well prepared...Belfry simply was "too" strong at everything. Too Much Size. Too many weapons. Too good of Fullback. Too good of defense. Too much team speed.

It's pretty clear another matchup will come between these two either next year of the year after. Russell has to continue to develop speed and athleticism, limit two way players, and develop a deep passing threat. I think the Devils are in good hands capable of doing just that.