DUST DEVIL PLAYOFF SPECIAL EDITION

The Dust Devil had the opportunity to watch some video of the Hanceville Bulldogs; very good team and with a 10-0 record deserves their top five ranking.  Hanceville has a good but not great defense; weak passing game; good offensive line; excellent fullback and a fast quarterback.  They also have an outstanding tailback, #6 Diamond Simmons,  who has speed, quickness, moves and runs hard all the time.  He can break a big play at any time.  Simmons also plays safety and makes it hard to throw deep passes against the Bulldogs.  Hanceville has only scored under forty points once this year and they got thirty-four that game.  However,  they have not played a very tough schedule; only two of the ten opponents have a winning record.

Elkmont has improved during the year and appears to be peaking at the right time.  The defense is playing outstanding football.  The offense is playing better and has the ability to make big plays at any time.  The kicking, punting and other special teams are as good as it gets in 3A football.


The Dust Devil also should mention the Elkmont coaches.  Normally, 3 different head coaches in 3 years is the recipe for a bad year, but Sean Holt and his staff have done an excellent job with this year's team and have them in position to win this playoff game.


There are four keys to beating Hanceville.  

1. Winning the turnover battle.  If Elkmont does not at least stay even in turnovers, they will not win the game.  
2. Defense must limit big plays.  Hanceville scores lots of times on long runs.  When their running back does get loose, Elkmont must tackle him for a 15 yard gain, not a 60 yard touchdown.  Play physical and make them work the ball down the field
3. Must move the ball consistently on offense and have a good mix of running and short and medium pass plays.  Must score at least three touchdowns to win.
4. Must get strong performances from everyone that plays on Friday night.  Sloan Hawkins, Jake Marshall and Bronson Ellis all need strong games for Elkmont to win.

The Dust Devil believes Elkmont is going to play their best game of the year and sticks with his earlier prediction; Elkmont 24, Hanceville 21.  
Game time  - 7 pm, Hanceville High School, Nov. 4.
Look for Hanceville Bulldogs Pre-Game Look tomorrow on the Elkmont Football Blog.