This is a great opportunity for the Toppers. Very few outside their fan base give them a chance. They cannot get off the bus "hoping" to keep it close. I do believe teams like Maryville have their opponents intimidated before the ball is kicked off.
Anything can happen Friday night. Intimidated teams tend to turn it over, have maddening penalties, fall behind early and do not answer scores. See the last SHHS / Maryville matchup.
Science Hill just played their most complete game of the year. They dismantled DB. Their speed and strength was very evident. Was that their peak or was that where they are as a team now.
My concern is this program has not been in this situation before. Carter's South teams faced Maryville once I believe and played tough. These kids had their biggest game against a great DB team in 2012 and could have won. I thought that DB team could beat Maryville. This SHHS team is better than the 2012 team. While the 2012 loss to DB let these kids know they could compete, they haven't faced what they will face Friday night. So, they have to overcome themselves.
Maryville is supposed to win. They expect to win. They are the measuring stick.
The SHHS kids have an opportunity to be a part of history for their program. One game. I understand the opposing fans, naysayers, and haters. Common sense is on their side.
Don't turn the ball over. Disciplined play. And answer scores. Key stops on D.
It can be done.