Bulldogs continue long-standing series with Crusaders

The Ville Platte High Bulldogs and the Westminster Crusaders will battle once again Friday night in the season
opener for both teams. The game will be played this year at Bulldog stadium. Game time is set for 7 p.m.
The Bulldogs are entering the game riding a wave of enthusiasm after an impressive 13-6 win over the Mamou Demons in the Evangeline Parish Jamboree. Westminster lost to Lafayette Christian 14-0 in the Kiwana’s Jamboree.
Ville Platte Head Coach Jorie Randle had a lot of praise for his squad, especially his offensive front, after the jamboree. “I thought our offensive line did a tremendous job of run blocking against Mamou,” a delighted Randle said. “I was really impressed with the holes that were opened by that group. Our running backs have to do a better job of being patient and finding the seams created by the guys up front. It’s going to take some game experience for the backs to really understand where the openings are. All of these guys are new to the position.”
Even though it really wasn’t needed, the passing game seemed shaky against the Demons. “We need to work on making our passing game more effective,” stated Randle. “Our goal is to be a run oriented offense this year, but we will need to pass the ball at times. If we cannot be efficient throwing the football, teams will just load the box with eight players and dare us to run.”
Ville Platte’s stellar defensive effort against Mamou was not surprising to Randle, as the Demons were held to only 20 yards of total offense. He pointed to a senior-laden defensive squad as a prime reason for the performance. “Our defense has a number of veteran players. I expect them to know their assignments and carry out those assignments. Collectively, we did a good job of tackling in the jamboree. We just need to make sure that players who come off of the bench are ready to play. Those guys have to be able to step in and perform well if we need them.”
An area of uncertainty for Ville Platte is the play of the special teams. “We really need to work on special teams,” said Randle. “It is a not easy to coach because it is hard to mimic in the offseason. Going full speed on special teams is a lot easier now that we have the pads on.”
Randle was really impressed with his next opponent, Westminster, after viewing film of their scrimmage and jamboree. “It is a typical, well-coached Westminster team,” stated Randle. “They run the ball effectively and have a tough fullback. Their quarterback is a big kid and throws the ball well. He has real good mechanics. I expect them to try to throw the ball a little more against us. Defensively they have a lot of speed. Their nose guard is an excellent player. I’m sure they will be prepared to try and stop our running game.”
Playing before a home crowd should give Ville Platte a big advantage. A solid outing against the Crusaders is important in keeping the Bulldog confidence moving in the right direction. Power points are a premium in the quest for playoff positioning and a victory over Westminster will be vital in that quest.