by Fulton Hampton
Polk County (6-2 overall, 3-1 conference) takes on Thomas Jefferson (6-2 overall, 2-2 conference) tonight, Friday, Oct. 12, for a matchup that should be quite different from the last 90-0 meeting in their stadium.
There is a lot of talk in the area about the complete turnaround they have made this year. Coach Bruce Ollis is quick to compliment their progress.
“If you look at what [Thomas Jefferson has] done this year, 6-2 [is] the same record we have posted,” Ollis said. “They are a formidable foe. Offensively, they probably throw the ball as well as any team in the conference. They throw the ball a little more than they run, [but] they have a pretty good mix. They have some weapons we will have to deal with.”
“The key for us defensively is going to be putting pressure on the passer,” Ollis continued. “We got to get a good pass rush… not allow him to throw the ball [at will]. That’s going to be huge.”
There will also be an emphasis on a more aggressive “ball hawking” defensive secondary, according to Ollis.
“They are going to have to break on the ball a little better… to not be afraid to make a great play,” Ollis said.
Offensively, after averaging more than 300 yards on the ground over the last three weeks, the Wolverines plan to continue to rely heavily on running the football.
“That’s certainly a key to our success… to control the ball offensively, give our defense the opportunity to rest some and limit the number of touches they get on offense,” Ollis said.
Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. and a large crowd is expected. Polk fans may want to bring chairs because of what is reportedly still limited visitor seating.