The Bradwell Institute Tigers were no match for the Coffee County Trojans and were shutout, 42-0, in a Region 3-AAAAA contest Friday in Douglas, marking the end of BI’s first 0-10 season since 1954.
The Bradwell boys have faced adversity in recent years. The team is adjusting to its third head coach in three seasons, which means the players have had to learn three different offensive schemes. The squad also was thrust into one of the hardest regions this year.
But there’s good news for the Tigers — head coach Greg Hill is committed to the team and already has planned for the off season. The coach has said the boys will hit the weight room early to become more physical next season. Hill also had the foresight to start preparing for his team’s future this year.
While the starting quarterback position shifted throughout the season, Hill primarily used sophomore Duane Johnson to lead the team under center. Hill also had another sophomore, Evan Crystal, take snaps at practice and in games throughout the year. Hill said the best way to groom the upcoming players is to give them game experience.
Crystal and Michael Moore were the two quarterbacks used against the Trojans’ defense Friday.
Coffee County’s defense was quick, which forced throws and resulted in no passing yards for BI.
The Tigers’ ground game yielded better results. Trevon McCoy had five carries for 37 yards, and Shaun Maschino rushed for 30 yards on 10 carries.
But Coffee County’s offense is led by a slew of veterans, and their big lead meant a running clock against the Tigers for the second half of play.
The Bradwell boys fought hard throughout the season and, as Hill has said, they never threw in the towel, they kept their heads up and always worked hard.