5 things to know: Cheatham County football ready to do more than reach postseason
Entering his third season as Cheatham County's football coach, Eric Hatley has just one thing on his mind for the 2017 season — the playoffs.
When Hatley took over the team in 2015, he led the Cubs to a 3-8 record and an early first round exit in the playoffs.
Last season Cheatham County Central finished 5-6, losing their only playoff game once again.
Here are five things to know about the 2017 Cheatham County Central football season.
Experience over talent
With 12 seniors on the roster, Hatley expects his team of veterans to not make mistakes. With three-year starting quarterback Landon Barnes at the helm once more, Hatley is confident his team can succeed.
“Last year Landon threw for over 1,000 yards and also rushed for over 1,000 yards,” Hatley said. “He’s coming back and is expected to lead us.”
Hatley touts Britain Barber and Benton Puckett to hold down the offensive and defensive lines, while junior, Walker Bunce will get the majority of touches in the backfield.
“Getting most of our guys back from last season helps us a lot,” Hatley said. “Our guys have been playing together for three years so we’ll certainly have experience.”
Moving on up
Cheatham County has made the playoffs in consecutive years since Hatley took over in 2015, but the Cubs have failed to convert in the post season.
“Looking at last year’s schedule there were a couple of 50-50 games that could have gone either way,” Hatley said. “Unfortunately, a few plays didn’t go our way and we ended up with a lower seed in the playoffs.”
With Hatley as coach, the Cubs have improved by two games each season, but are still seeking their first playoff win since 2012.
Cheatham County rivalry
Hatley anticipates winning every game, but some matchups mean just a little more.
“Harpeth and Sycamore are both big-time rivals, but it’s hard to put one above the other,” Hatley said. “We always want to beat them both.”
Cheatham County split victories with Harpeth and Sycamore last season. This year the Cubs will travel to Sycamore for a Week 3, while they host Harpeth two weeks later on Sept. 15.
East Hickman out
With East Hickman no longer in Region 6-3A, Hatley has elected to use the opportunity to improve the schedule.
“It adds an extra non-region game. I have scheduled some tougher teams that will help us come playoff time,” Hatley said. “We always have to be ready for Fairview and Camden, that’s where it’s going to start (in the region).”
Over the previous two seasons Cheatham County had outscored East Hickman 48-30.
What’s next?
Hatley’s goal for the season is to take Cheatham County where they’ve never been before.
“Cheatham County should be a playoff team every year,” Hatley said. “Not only do I want to make it to the playoffs, but we should be hosting at least the first round.”
“This season we have the talent to finish towards the top of our region,” Hatley said. “My challenge to the guys is to make it to third round. We want to go farther than any Cheatham County school has in history.”
Cheatham County’s season kicks off against Hunters Lane on Aug. 18.