[long_time_pirate]

Congrats to Belfry for the victory. But for a little constructive criticism and I've watched in person every game this season;

IMO Belfry needs to shake up personnel on defense a bit when facing spread teams. As it stands now, Haywood's 5-2 has two of his biggest studs (Messer and Ruynon) covering the flats instead of getting after the passer. Rushing his three d-lineman as they are currently comprised is getting VERY little pressure on the QB. We did have one sack last night when they called a blitz and Runyon got there. Our blitzes from the MLB's do not seem well executed and rarely get there. I do think Ghormley could be a good blitzer, but I wish he didn't delay so much. Show it and come with your hair on fire IMO.

Teams like Pike Co. Central, Ashland, and Breathitt Co. (as it seems that is going to happen) will spread the field just like Prestonsburg and Pikeville. All three of those teams have excellent skill guys and good QB's. Sending our three down lineman and covering the flats with our DE's will give those QB's a lot of time to throw.

I am not sure the solution, but this is the single biggest issue Belfry needs to work on moving forward IMO. I would be interested to hear other Pirate fan's take on this? One thought I have had - is on a 3rd and long against a predominantly passing team, why not go

DE - H. Dotson
DT - Runyon
NG - Trey Willis
DT - Messer
DE - Carr

With the rest of the regulars behind them. That group seems to provide some better pass rush and Dotson and Carr are a little quicker to cover those flats.

You are correct with your analysis... Dotson and Carr ARE faster and most likely would be able to cover the flats quicker. IMHO, I think Dotson is starting @ tackle on D due to the fact that he is quick enough to get a pass rush going. This team has tremendous speed and players that can be moved from position to position and know what to do. Also, I want to commend Coach Haywood in allowing the frosh to get some play time in. Yes, in the 4th, his freshmen QB and players were on the field. The starters, (Dotson, Runyon, Dixon, Willis, Messer, Mullins, etc) were ALL sitting on the bench behind the team getting gatorade and a small break. Good luck to the Pirates on the rest of the season... I look forward at seeing what great things this team can accomplish!