Bearcats hope to start season on right track

BY: TRACEY JAGNEAUX
Sports Editor

After a strong performance in the jamboree Friday night, the Basile Bearcats are looking to continue moving in the right direction against the Vinton Lions tomorrow night. Game time is set for 7 p.m. in Basile
Bearcat Head Coach Kevin Bertrand was pleased with his team on both sides of the ball after their 28-0 win over Mamou last week.
“I thought defensively we played an outstanding game,” said Bertrand. “We tackled well and kept our assignments throughout the game. Our guys on that side of the ball are veterans that know how to adjust to situations without us telling them what to do.”
Offensively, Basile was on point, especially with their running game. The Bearcats rushed for over 250 yards against the Demons in the jamboree.
“Our offensive line did an exceptional job of blocking,” stated Bertrand. “They opened up some big holes and our backs did a great job of finding those holes. It was a huge improvement from the scrimmage last week.”
Bertrand did point to a few areas that needed to be cleaned up before their opening game against Vinton.
“We definitely have to clean up the penalties,” commented Bertrand. “We can’t have mistakes, especially on the opening drive of the game. We will be talking to the players about that this week.”
Against Vinton, Bertand and the Bearcats will need to have another sound defensive performance in order to come away with their first win of the season.
“They are big and fast,” said Bertrand. “They utilize a double wing-double tight offense. We are going to have to play assignment football and stay low up front and try not to get driven off of the ball. Defensively, they are very aggressive. Hopefully, we can use that against them and break some long runs off against them.”
Vinton comes into the game having defeated Sulfur High JV 14-8 in their jamboree. The Lions were 6-4 last season and eventualy lost in the Class 2A quarterfinals to Sterlington.