[ryanparker]

I always think that Russell's playoff fate is pretty much tied to whether or not they can complete enough passes to keep drives alive. For the most part, their running game and defense have always been at least adequate enough to compete against good teams.

I hope and somewhat suspect the offensive play calling will get a little more creative when the games start to matter more. We have gotten "risky" at times in the past! Didn't we recover a pooch kick in the first quarter against Belfry in the 2005 playoffs? I think the coaches will recognize when we might be outmanned and call some unexpected plays at unexpected times.

I am more concerned, though, about the defense. That was a pretty lackluster performance against Ashland. Whether scheme, talent, or effort was to blame, it has to improve.