DrawingDead

For my friends from West Tennessee, I'm more than aware of the quality of the programs like Milan, Huntingdon, and Camden. I grew up my entire life watching them play, and as an adult for a period of time, I was a SportsRadio host in Jackson. I've seen Milan/Huntingdon/Camden/Westview, etc. play more than a few times. So yes, I know all about the great programs over there. For the longest time, I was their biggest advocate after moving to East Tenn. After watching Loudon this season, however, I feel confident in saying that they can play with any team in the state. The big test comes up for them this week against Alcoa, who would be competitive in any classification in the state. I think that the winner of this game has the inside track to winning the state title, given the toughness they will have developed. Loudon's not my alma mater, but I've adopted it as my own. Go REDSKINS!

The rematch of Loudon vs. Alcoa is set up again, and both teams are playing strong into the playoffs. Alcoa, of course, is an impressive team with tons of depth and talent, who've mopped the field with pretty much everyone this season. Loudon has been somewhat unexpectedly strong all year, with the lone blemish on the record coming from Alcoa in week 4. Despite some early struggles and turnovers against Alcoa, Loudon stuck in there, and played solid the rest of the way against the Tornados. I think anyone in East Tennessee that wants to see a great high school football game next Friday should head over to Alcoa. I may be wrong, and Alcoa may blow out the Redskins, but I think it's going to be a dandy of a game. Loudon's defense won't give up 91 (or 49) to Alcoa. There's going to be some tough defense both ways, but both offenses are going to make plays. I see a game somewhere in the 21-14 range. It's a coin toss IMHO which way it goes. Granted, I'm pulling for the fellas from Loudon, but I'm smelling upset. Go REDSKINS! Beat Alcoa!

I'm anxiously looking for a Loudon-Alcoa rematch in two weeks in the Quarterfinals. Loudon played Alcoa as close as anyone in 2A has this year early on. Loudon played solidly on defense, only giving up 28 points against Alcoa's first team (for the majority if not all of the game). Loudon's offense has been clicking much better as of late, and it's not purely resting on the head of Josh Hawkins to carry the load. The passing game is sound, and there are multiple runners who can move the ball. If Alcoa's going to lose in the playoffs, it will be to Loudon. That's the matchup to watch for.