[OrangenowBlue]

Sorry MM, while I am one of the Highlands fans that is the most supportive and positive about JC, I do not get a lump in my throat when I hear the name JC. Not close. I do however know that JC has given us good games. Definitely agree with you there. Because of the style of play of JC you know it's always going to be a hard hitting game and that we have to take advantage of every offensive opportunity, because JC keeps possession of the ball for long periods.

If and when JC develops a more diverse offense and if and when Matney puts as much emphasis on defense as he seemingly does on offense, then I may develop that lump you refer to. But for now, the offensive style means that JC can't afford to make any mistakes on O (which is a lot to expect from teenage boys) and that they can't come back if they are two touchdowns down late in the game. But for now, the defense is simply not able to defend the pass and doesn't defend the run extremely well. Based on my assessment of having watched JC play Highlands the last two years, watching them play Ashland this year and watching them on tape against about 5 or 6 teams, I don't have that lump yet. It may happen down the road, but not yet. Hope you don't take offense to the above, that's just how I see it.

Having said that, I know that JC should have another very good team next year. Lots of very players returning in the back field. What we don't know yet is who will replace all the graduating linemen and whether they will be good enough to propel JC to another very good year. It's nice to have great running backs, but it's the linemen that make them great. Hopefully JC can develop those linemen and hopefully Highlands will be good enough so that there can be another playoff game between these two teams. Looking forward to it; not dreading it at all. Yet! :biggrin:

Well said.