(Post sponsored by Tinsley Title, Holt Wrecker, R&R lawn specialists, Gibson Pharmacy.)
In this week’s Cardinal Podcast, Michael Hannigan sat down with Head Coach Sherard Poteete to talk about how the Cardinals are responding to last week’s loss and preparing for Saturday’s conference matchup with Cisco. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. at Bruce Field.
Back to Bruce Field
After opening the year with three games in three different stadiums, the Cardinals are looking forward to another Saturday at Bruce Field. Coach Poteete said the team's focus this week has been sharp in practice, and the Cards are eager to get that winning feeling again.
“Our guys are ready to get back out and head out to Bruce again,” he said. “Let’s get it on and show what we’ve been preparing for.”
Looking toward Cisco
The Wranglers are 1-0 after beating Coffeyville in Kansas. Led by head coach Charlie Rizzio, now in his second season, Cisco reached the conference playoffs a year ago.
Their quarterback, Landon Vessel, was last season’s conference MVP. He briefly signed with a Division I program before returning and is the centerpiece of Cisco’s offense. “He’s a really good football player,” Coach Poteete said. “We’ve got to be able to corral him, maybe spy him here and there when the pass rush is coming and he sneaks through run lanes.”
Cisco made a major switch on offense last year, moving away from the triple option to more spread looks with 10 and 11 personnel. Vessel is comfortable throwing from the pocket but is just as dangerous extending plays with his legs. The Wranglers also return several key defenders, including active linebackers and athletic defensive ends who thrive on creating chaos.
“They’re going to play physical up front and funnel things to their linebackers,” Coach Poteete said. “We’ve got to be able to run the football and then win some matchups in the passing game.”
Checking on the Cardinals
Quarterback Kaden Brown continues to progress each week, and TVCC’s receivers are starting to make their mark. Redshirt freshman Jake Peveto has led the team in receptions in all three games, while Chauncey Hogg has been productive in the slot.
“It’s time,” Coach Poteete said. “We’ve got some guys that can really run once we get the ball in their hands.”
Coach Poteete said the team has stacked solid practices this week and he wants to see the Cardinals play more complete football.
"We just didn’t play very complementary football on both sides and throwing special teams in there,” he said.
Day Game at the Bruce
After back-to-back night games, Saturday’s game will kick off at 2 p.m. Coach Poteete said he likes the earlier starts.
“I really enjoy day games. We’re able to wake up, let’s go get on our day,” he said. “It’s get up and let’s get it on.”
