6 questions for before Armwood and Plant take the field
1. Who gets more reps at quarterback, Alvin Bailey or Daryl Richardson, for the Armwood offense in the state championship game?
Ans: Richardson–> If this kid is the future of the program, he needs as many championship reps as possible. He needs to understand what it’s like to perform and perform well on the Big Stage. Richardson needs to develop character and leadership at the position, the needs it most. Armwood will mix it up and Bailey should get plenty of snaps, but he is more comfortable on the perimeter and Richardson needs to use this as a confidence builder. Now, don’t get it twisted, Armwood needs to do, what Armwood needs to do to win the game. If that means more Bailey behind center, then so be it!
2. Will Antonio Crawford need more touches for Plant to have success on offense?
Ans: Yes–> Not a knock on Wesley Bullock, but the combination of Crawford and Bullock provide Plant with weapons that can go the distance at any time. Bullock has been sensational in 2011, but the Miramar defense will be a tough wall to bust through. With Crawford sharing the load, legs stay fresh allowing the Panther RBs to be a real impact on the game. Crawford has 52 carries for 544 yards, averaging 10.5 yards per rush. By the numbers, he basically gets a first down each time he carries the ball. Reality is, that won’t happen Saturday night, but the more times he gets the ball, the more opportunity he will have to go the distance.
3. Will Armwood’s defense bounce back after allowing 38 to Bartram Trail?
Ans: Yes–> Sounds like a bad dream that the Hawk defense gave up 38 to Bartram Trail a week ago, but don’t expect it to happen again. After a regular season of allowing just 52 points, the Hawks have allowed 83 in the playoffs. Note: This is the playoffs and the Hawks have been given each team’s best left hook, but they still stand and should have a solid performance vs. Miami Central. Plus, Central is a run oriented team, which should play into the favor and strength of the Hawk defense.
4. Will Plant’s favorable playoff schedule help or hurt them?
Ans: Neither–> They were games on their schedule that had to be played. What is going to help Plant the most are the players with Championship game experience. Understanding the magnitude of the game, the preparation and how not to panic when things don’t go their way.
5. Can the Armwood defense contain Central’s leading rusher, Joe Yearby?
Yes–> Joe Yearby is the best RB I have seen this year. I don’t think Armwood has played a RB with his talents this season. With that said, I don’t think Yearby has played a run defense like Armwood’s this year. I think this is a case of “They may not shut him down, but they can contain him and make his night difficult”. When the Hawks defense is clicking on all cylinders, they are as good as any in the State of Florida. Only Lakewood Ranch’s, McKenzie Hathaway which had 35 carries for 127 yard, 1 rushing TD was the only 100 yard rusher Armwood allowed this year. The Hawks will be coached up and ready!
6. How will Plant QB, James Few perform vs. Miramar’s skillful secondary?
Tough Night–> Miramar has a defensive line that rushes the passer extremely well. To compliment their defensive line, their secondary can be in the conversation as one of the best in the state of Florida. Few will get his, but the Patriot defensive line and secondary will make him work for each completion.