Vikes change offense before road trip

Coach Johnnie Frost (pointing) and his team has had a good week of practice and feel they are well prepared to take on the Patriots. (T-G Photo by Jimmy Jones) [Click to enlarge]

The Vikings are coming off a bitterly disappointing loss to Clarksville Academy in a game where they were shut out offensively for the first time this season. Despite moving the ball up and down the field all night, Community self-destructed at crucial times.

They don't expect a repeat performance this week.

"We have had an outstanding week of practice," coach Johnnie Frost said. "Our junior high players were able to join us after their season ended and it has given us some more options as far as working offense and defensive sets.

"They have also brought a renewed spirit of competition because the upperclassmen know that these kids aren't just satisfied with just suiting up. There are several kids out here now that will push for some playing time."

The Patriots beat Nashville Christian 25-21 last week and, in all probability, are feeling their oats just a little bit knowing that CA whipped up on their opponent but was only one touchdown better than them in their meeting two weeks ago.

Community enters the contest in good shape physically and on the mend mentally after their rough outing last week. They'll be extra motivated by the memory of last year's 44-2 drubbing at the hands of the Patriots, who played their starters deep into the fourth period.

"We have made some changes in our formations to allow our playmakers to touch the ball more often and to give our quarterback a little extra time to make his reads and deliver the ball on pass routes," Frost said. "Our offensive line has come a long way since the start of the season but there is still some opportunity to stay with our run blocks more as well as do a better job of opening holes for the running backs.

"I am very encouraged by the response from the kids this week in practice and we are proud of the effort that they have exerted in welcoming the eighth graders to the team.

"We should be a lot more prepared to play this week and we look forward to getting back on the playing field to show what we can do as a team."