Bearcats face Tigers in regional playoff game

The Basile Bearcats waited a week to discover their first opponent in the 2014 LHSAA class 1A playoffs; and now they know. The Bearcats will host the LaSalle High School Tigers Friday night. The Tigers defeated the South Cameron Tarpons 34-0 in this past Friday’s bi-district playoff game. South Cameron is a familiar district opponent for the Bearcats. Game time between Basile and LaSalle is set for 7 p.m.
Basile should get a good idea about the Tigers by watching the film from LaSalle’s first round playoff game, having played the Tarpons earlier this year. The Bearcats, coming off of a bye for the first round of the playoffs, have used this week to heal and work on trying to correct some bad habits that may have been picked up during the season.
The ability to rest and heal some players last week will be huge for the Bearcats as it will allow them to get some players back for the playoff run ahead. This will be very important in terms of depth.
The regional opponent for the Bearcats, LaSalle High School, comes into the game with an overall record of 7-4. The Tigers were 2-3 in a very tough district 3-1A. LaSalle comes into the game averaging 21.5 points per game.
The Tigers are a run-oriented team as they average over 225 yards per game rushing. LaSalle only averages 68 yards per game passing. The Tigers have scored over 40 points once this season, over 50 once and over 60 one time. LaSalle does not rely on one running back to carry the load. They have three backs with over 600 yards of rushing.
Defensively, the Tigers give up an average of 22.5 points per game. LaSalle has allowed over 40 points twice this season. However, the Tigers have also shut out two opponents on the season. The LaSalle defense has recorded 11 interceptions and 13 fumble recoveries, while blocking a punt and a field goal.
“They have some really good skill position players,” stated Basile Head Coach Kevin Bertrand. “They use a two quarterback system and run out of the spread formation. Defensively, we are going to have to prepare for an offense that can move the ball and put up some points. Offensively, we are going to continue what we have been doing all year. We are going to ride Kendrick and Gabe and use play action passes and try to control the football.”
Basile is no stranger to big playoff games. The experienced Bearcats have been in this position before. If Basile can run the football with authority and keep the ball away from the LaSalle offense, it may be a long night for the Tigers.
One thing is for sure, the Bearcats know how to focus on the task at hand and not look ahead to next week.