What does John Hardin need to do to improve in 2007? What do they need to keep doing to be successful? Remember, please be constructive.

John Hardin Bulldogs 2007

 

I think the Bulldogs are on the verge of a great season. However, in order for that to happen, Coach Brown and coaching staff needs players who are switching to different positions, along with the younger players, comfortable and confident with the physical and mental aspects of playing varsity football. I especially think that it is crucial to get the offensive and defensive lines working together and being productive after losing seniors at those positions. (William Savoy First Team All State Defensive Line 05 and 06).

 

John Hardin has a tradition of working hard and practicing hard and of course this contributes in a significant way to the program's success. I am sure that this trend will continue this year.

 

The Bulldogs will look to improve on their passing game. They need to diversify their offense in 2007. I think that last season there was a bit of a shortage of depth at the receiver position, and this, along with the strong O-line and solid running game led to JHHS becoming too reliant on the run. Hopefully, this is being addressed this off-season. Last year’s one dimensional offense, although successful, total rushing yards 2950 for 06. In my opinion the reason the Bulldogs struggled far in the playoffs. Junior QB Tim Marcum has one year of experience under his belt and demonstrated at times he could be a very accurate and proficient passer when given the chance; Marcum loses his biggest pass threat to graduation in Ryan Wolz but returns a talented TE in Cody Mitchell. Concentrating on more of the skill positions, we will need to develop a more consistent set of receivers who are reliable in catching the ball and blocking on running plays The Bulldogs will also need to maintain their offensive identity this year returning 2235 yards of rushing offence. Lead by senior’s Matt Denham (1039 yards 12 TD’s) and Jamark McCloud and junior’s Elias Camper and Marcum, all have break away speed with 4.6 40s.

 

To everyone who thinks the Bulldogs should run less, they are wrong; Brown has won championships with running teams...

 

Linebacking has been a strength of pass Bulldog’s defensive teams and this year looks to be the same. Senior Dasmen Hayden and Junior Caleb Mitchell will anchor the middle. The defensive secondary needs to stop the big plays. The Defensive line will be anchor by senior Gatewood in the middle. For the Bulldog’s to have a successful season the defense will need to play all four quarters which I am sure coach Gregory will emphasize during spring practice.

 

Strengths: Head Coach and staff, Running Game, Defense

 

Must Improve: Leadership on the field, Heart, Desire, Strength, Finishing games

 

Overall the Bulldog’s have to be considered one of the top teams in Class 5A and should have a chance at making a run at the schools first ever State Title. It will be a very entertaining and exciting season for the Bulldogs and their fans.