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

The Cardinals need to work on finishing. They really made strides down the stretch last year, despite the 3-8 record. You may recall that they had John Hardin beat on JH's turf in the playoffs, but the kicking game struggled.

 

Nelson returns nearly everyone on the offensive side of the football, including 4 of 5 offensive lineman, their quarterback, Jordan Keene, their fullback, Devin Boone (a 1,000 yard rusher), and an exciting tailback, D'Sean Patterson. They have several huge tight ends who can both block and get into a pattern.

 

Defensively, they will miss their linebackers, Brandon Williams and Chad Crepps dearly. The secondary and defensive line should be OK.

 

The DL has got to get better about not being tired in the second half, and the secondary frankly has just got to get better. They had a great deal of trouble defensing the pass in the second half of last season. Offensively, Jordan Keene could be on the verge of brilliance, but it is clear that the Nelson will have to utilize enough of an effective pass attack to complement what could be a very good option offense. That may mean finding a wideout and utilizing Jesse Beavers more at tight end.

 

The kicking game has got to be more consistent.

 

Bart Bruner has over 100 kids lifting weights in anticipation of upcoming Spring practice. That does not include the freshmen coming up. This program has rallied around one another and is a bright spot at the school. Money was allocated in next year's budget for stadium improvements. With the move to the new 6A district, I think Nelson has a good shot at a District title, and with some rapid improvement of Keene and Patterson, may even be a playoff threat.

I think the biggest thing for Nelson at this point is to continue to regain their swagger. :walk: This program could be a giant (and has been!). I think that have the right leader to get the job done.

 

I would agree with Hearsay about the passing attack. The option attack is a beautiful thing, but you have to keep people honest and must find a way to limit the number of defenders in the box and there is no better way to do that than throwing the ball with some success.

 

The defensive side of the ball will be the Cardinals greatest improvement in 07. The 50 angle that Coach Bruner installed is tough and was dramatically different than the 4-4 look that had been ran there before he arrived. The depth, which brings competition, and the extra year to learn and adapt to the techniques will make a world of difference.

 

Best of luck to the Cards!

I believe Nelson will be a force next year, and it seems the kids have bought into Bruner's program. I'm not sure who all will be in their district but I see no reason why they can't contend for a district championship.

I watched a little of the Cardinals practice today, and they are much bigger, faster, and the morale seemed much higher than it has been in some time. I have high hopes and expectations for them this season.

Good to hear, though not surprised. Bruner just knows how to rally everyone together for the common goal.