Generals tackling is the key ahead of Regional Title clash
THORNVILLE, OH- The Sheridan Generals are the only team in the MVL that is still alive in the playoffs. Week 14 is a very special week for the program.
The Generals knocked out Bishop Hartley in round three of the OHSAA football playoffs last Friday. Sheridan controlled the game in all phases. They had a pick six on defense, finished offensive drives, and most notably won the special teams battle, which tends to go unnoticed until it matters.
“It can’t be overstated how important special teams are in big games. I think people know that but don’t practice plan like that. We spend 20 minutes a day on special teams. The kids made plays, Justin’s (Munyan) 50 yard punt was huge. AJ’s (Winders) punt return was incredible and he’s just a senior stepping up making plays.” Said head coach Paul Culver III.
Speaking of making plays, you can look no further than starting quarterback Caden Sheridan. All postseason long he has continued to showcase grit in big moments.
“Every single inch, every second, and every snap, that kid is looking for a way to win. He’s looking for a way to make a play. He doesn’t take risks and plays with an edge. He is such a competitor and will find a way whether that is throwing the ball, handing it off, a great fake, or making great decisions in our read game. When you put the ball in his hands on a quarterback run play it becomes old school and he is going to put the ball in the end zone.” Culver said.
On the other sideline this week is the Steubenville Big Red. The Big Red have not lost since week one and have scored 42 or more points in every playoff game this season. Coach Culver knows they will get a few big plays, but also has a game plan on how to limit them. “You have to tackle in space. They move the ball well. Their lateral screen game is so good that it forces you to move sideline to sideline. Even though they look like a smash mouth team with a tight end and a fullback, they get the ball out quickly to their receivers. They produce well with simple plays so you are forced to defend numbers to numbers.”
The Generals are just one win away from being a final four team. A banner would be hung in the gym should the team advance to week 15. Sheridan football has been a family tradition for the Culver family and that hasn’t changed over the years. “Two years now after my dad is gone, nine years after he stood on the sidelines and we are still here. The Red Rage is still playing hard and doing it with the right mental attitude.” Said Culver.
Sheridan will play Steubenville in the regional title game on Friday at Woody Hayes Quaker Stadium in New Philadelphia. The game can be heard on Z92 radio.
