The Huddle Preview: Football playoffs Central Davidson Spartans vs Ledford Panthers
1st Round State Playoffs Game Preview
The 7-2 Spartans of Central Davidson hope the rematch between the 7-3 Ledford Panthers produces the same results as it did earlier in the season. Central was able to outscore Ledford 46-34 and finish with a better winning percentage and a head to head victory. Interestingly enough, the Panthers are the higher seed and will play at home against the Spartans Friday.
{Contributed Photo}
The matchup consists of two totally different offenses. The Panthers like to air it out with Junior Quarterback #2 Nathan Carr. The Spartans on the other hand like to grind it out with the running game led by senior running back #1 Cory Casilac
When asking Central’s Coach Trivett about the seeding he stated, “We are just excited to be in the playoffs! This is what we have been working towards as a program. It’s been 9 years since Central’s last appearance. We are not focused on the fact we beat them in the regular season. Playoffs are a new season where everyone’s slate is wiped clean.
Central Davidson senior running back Cory Casilac {Contributed Photo}
Coach Chris Doby for Ledford said “he believed Central has played with chip on their shoulder all season.” He went on to say; “we don’t have any reason to believe they wouldn’t play the physical style of football that has led to their success.”
Both coaches were asked about playing teams they were familiar with and did they do anything different in preparation. Coach Trivett said; “we plan on doing what we have done all year.” He stated, “we will be physical and run the ball being true to our game.” The Panthers on the other hand; Coach Doby mentioned, “they must clean up mistakes they have had the past few weeks if they want to advance to the next round.”
Central knows what to expect this week. Coach Trivett of the Spartans said; “Ledford has several key players, Nate Carr being one of them. He’s a special player and has several receivers that can cause issues for any defense.” He went on to say; “we’re going to need to play well on defense to beat them. Our O-line will need to dominate the line of scrimmage so that our backs will have room to run. We have to execute on both sides of the ball in order to win this matchup.”
Coach Doby was asked about the keys for victory this week. “All of our players are key to success. The o-line and d-line are where we need to improve. Establishing control on the line of scrimmage sets the tone each week.” He went on to say; “we must protect QB Nate Carr and create running lanes for RB Alex Sanford to be successful offensively. Defensively we must control the line of scrimmage which will allow our LB’s Brandon Martinez and Evan Campbell to run and make tackles.
If you’re looking for a great 1st round playoff matchup consisting of high scoring offenses this one has it. Come out Friday to Ledford at 7pm and see which Davidson County team prevails.
