South Hardin will host the Ridge View Raptors on Friday night for round two of the Class 1A football playoffs. Both teams are ranked in the top 10, with the Tigers entering at No. 4 and the Raptors at No. 10.
As the Tigers prepare for their second postseason matchup, Head Coach Nick Eller says the team must be ready for the rising intensity of playoff football.
“I think a lot of people just think you just play like you have all year,” says Eller. “I think you’ve got to keep improving because the games you’re coming up against are just a better and better team each time.”
Last week, the Tigers’ defense faced a pass-heavy Camanche offense. This week, they will see a Raptors offense that relies heavily on the run game. Running backs Derek and Lucas Heilman have combined for 1,799 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns this season.
Eller notes the Tigers’ defense will need to stay disciplined against a ground attack fueled by two explosive playmakers.
“Definitely a run heavy team on offense,” says Eller. “Got two really nice backs that got wheels, got good vision, good cutting. Really make you have to just play good sound discipline defense. If you don’t, they’re gonna take it to the house.”
The winner will advance to the quarterfinal round. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. in Eldora.
Head Coach Nick Eller’s full interview;
