The Blake Yellow Jackets are 2-6 currently heading into their 7th district game versus Robinson. A 0-2 start to the season, motivated a 2-2 record after 4 games. Many people around town were praising the Jackets about their competitiveness and style of play. One unnamed opposing coach had this to say, “Blake D line kicked our butt!!! They are good on D and play nasty and physical. They beat us up physically all night upfront.” Since then, the Jackets have lost the last four games and depending on the results of the last two games, will finish their season towards the middle or bottom of a stiff district.
Though not at the top of the district in wins, they are at the VERY TOP in the state in sacks. According to Maxpreps.com, Blake leads the state in sacks with 56 total sacks after 8 games (7 sacks per game). The next ranked team; Stranahan (Ft. Lauderdale) has 44 sacks after 6 games recorded. Head football coach, Darryl Gordon credits the play of his defense to the efforts of his defensive coordinator, Anthony Davis. Davis has incorporated a blitz heavy; get up field style defense, with a “Get after them” attitude. “Anthony [Davis] wants to get pressure on the QB,” Says Gordon. It seems to be working since the Jackets are averaging 7 sacks per game.
2016 prospect, Shavar Manuel leads the defense in sacks. Last season he was an All BCP selection as a freshman. This season he already has 18 sacks. That is good enough for the #1 spot in the state. He just can’t be blocked. “We are still young on the defensive line. We are playing sophomores and freshman upfront. They are good kids and good athletes and the defensive coaches have done a great job with them,” Says Coach Gordon.
“We are much improved from last season, but must eliminate the mental mistakes that are hurting us.” – Darryl Gordon. The Jackets are allowing 24 points per game to the opposition, while only scoring 21 points per game. The secondary must play better. Too many big plays are happening in the secondary due to mental breakdowns, not physical ability.
Coach Gordon thinks his team has made strides and the record does not reflect the progress the team has made. The kids believe they can be successful and the challenging schedule will make them stronger and more prepared for the seasons to come.