Yoakum (3-2, 0-0) at Smithville (3-2, 0-0)

[YTBulldogs]

Well, let's get some thoughts going in this district opener on October 12th. Both teams have a bye coming into the game. Smithville a very tough place in which to play. They have a solid RB and play solid all around.

Yoakum, really has had just 1 game in which they played good for four quarters. Bulldogs have also sustained some major injury's. Mainly to their OL/DL. Yoakum did get back the team's best athlete, Tre' Hights (QB, RB, WR, wildcat specialist), against Rice and he did get a few touches in his first ever varsity game to get his feet wet at this level. Tre' looked as advertised ---a play maker, who makes things happen when he has the ball.

To me, the key will be how Yoakum overcomes losing the OL/DL starters and revamping that DL. Several teams have ran at will straight up the gut on us, and no was pressure generated on the QB, from the front four. Our secondary is about the best in district IMO, and our returners on special teams, rank near the top too. Notice we played a lot of guys on these special teams, I see some of our better athletes taking over those assignments come district. Too many long returns have been given up on special teams. Also see a new kicker coming up, who is tremendous in pooch kicking or kicking it deep very high with and an accurate foot, with the ability to kick longer FG's.

Sure would be nice to start this tough district out 1-0. Both teams will be prepared and I see a good tough battle in this one. Yoakum coaches did a great job in playing numerous kid's in their ND schedule, and did not waiver from it, knowing the importance in getting some usable depth prepared for the games that count, district. Even tough they caught heck from the fan's, they stuck with the game plan, and played all the kid's, over the projected starters.

Coach Kornegay and his staff will have the Bulldogs ready, for a long tough district race. Come November, I see Yoakum in a true battle for a playoff spot. In this new district, and the tough teams within it, if you have an off week, you'll get an costly "L" that Friday night.

For my DOGS, our playoff's started this past Saturday. The bye week, for some teams is time to take it easy. For us, it's time to re-evaluate our ND games, who performed and who will be selected as the starters for the crucial and demanding district games. And, I see this bye week being the most intense of all the practice weeks to date. A playoff spot is within our reach, just a matter of excepting the challenge and grasping one of the 3 spots available.

As I have said in the past. The favorites to me are: Gonzales, LaGrange and Giddings. Now, it's up to those not mention to make a statement, and take it from them when we face them, if they want to extend their season in November. Without a doubt, we have the talent to bump off any team we play the next 6 weeks. Do we have the numbers as those favored, no--but, we have determination and will do what it takes to be a playoff team when district ends IMO. This team has had a focused goal since last year's Sam Houston game, that prevented us making the playoffs.

Good luck to all district teams. The real season is upon us now.

[Pudlugger]

This will be one of the better match ups the week of Oct 12. From what I've read here on the board Smithville likes to run at you. The problems Yoakum are facing with the loss of two of their best defensive lineman could make it tough for them to stop the run. On the other hand Yoakum has some excellent athletes as well who can make big plays. If Yoakum can put some big numbers on the board they may be able to win this game with a struggling defense but I think Smithville will be able to contain them with ball control. Plus you have home field advantage which seems to be a big factor in Barry stadium. Smithville by 14..

[YTBulldogs]

This will be one of the better match ups the week of Oct 12. From what I've read here on the board Smithville likes to run at you. The problems Yoakum are facing with the loss of two of their best defensive lineman could make it tough for them to stop the run. On the other hand Yoakum has some excellent athletes as well who can make big plays. If Yoakum can put some big numbers on the board they may be able to win this game with a struggling defense but I think Smithville will be able to contain them with ball control. Plus you have home field advantage which seems to be a big factor in Barry stadium. Smithville by 14..

Yup, we have to do something with that front 4 for sure. If you can't stop the run (which we have not been able to really all year) your cooked. Not sure why we didn't load the box, to help stop it, cause Rice didn't throw the ball. Come district, I assume we will load it, if a team has success like the past few teams have against us. Can't argue with your pick here Pud, based on our injury's and recent performances. I do see more kid's going both ways, and even on special teams, come district. So, let's hope they are capable and in shape cause it's really our only chance to contend in games IMO.

[YTBulldogs]

Unsung hero lately has to go to Coach K (our athletic trainer) and her staff. Does a awesome job rehabbing our injured and getting them back on the field healthy. Hope she can work her magic a few more times before we face Smithville? She often goes unnoticed, but--we that know the kid's out and have returned, appreciate her hard work. We are blessed having her. One of the best.

[txsportswriter]

I've been around this group of Yoakum players all my life and know that if they put their heart and soul into it, they can beat anybody. Whether they do that is anyone's guess. To tell you the truth, I really don't like the vibes I'm getting from these boys and I truly hate to say that. I just hope I'm wrong and these kids (especially the seniors) decide to CARE. Like I've said over and over, you can't have just a handful of kids who give a **** (pardon the language). We need everybody to have that "I TRULY DO CARE" attitude if we plan on competing in District 26-3A. I truly think we have the talent to win the district (even with a few banged up players), but I also think we could go 0-fer in district. All it really comes down to is HOW BAD DO THESE BOYS WANT IT? Coaches, parents and fans can preach to these boys until they're blue in the face, but it doesn't mean jack unless these boys go out and do it. And I'm with YT in regards to the fact that Yoakum will need to have their best 11 players on the field for at least 90% to 95% of the snaps, even special teams. The coaches have had five games to evaluate the talent and find out which plays are our bread and butter. I think the days of 8 to 10 ball carriers per game are over. The studs will get the rock and will be able to get in to a rhythm come district play. These next two weeks should be geared to getting in game shape with all of our starters. Subs will be there to give them a breather when needed and won't be in a daze because they got plenty of reps in non-district games IMO. For us, the playoffs start Oct. 12 in Smithville. It will be a tough place to play for sure. If we bring our "A" game and play lights out from start to finish, I say we can win 28-14. If we don't and play like we have through non-district, then I say we lose by the same score. It's up to the kids. I guess we'll see which ones show up soon enough. GO BULLDOGS!!!!

[buff4ever]

If the bulldog players wanted it as bad as you two, they would be scary determined. "Pudlike" comes to mind again. You guys get on here and write novels directed at your players as inspiration or just something to get them fired up. I am anxious to see what the bulldogs have come district, because I am wondering if you guys have the potential you think you do, or if you two just want it that bad and believe it's there when it may not be.

[YTBulldogs]

If the bulldog players wanted it as bad as you two, they would be scary determined. "Pudlike" comes to mind again. You guys get on here and write novels directed at your players as inspiration or just something to get them fired up. I am anxious to see what the bulldogs have come district, because I am wondering if you guys have the potential you think you do, or if you two just want it that bad and believe it's there when it may not be.

Sad, and I hate to admit, but--you could be right buff. Maybe the Dog's are a year or two away? Damn injury's sure didn't help any I can assure you that. When we don't have the numbers most district foes have, it's a killer.

[Cowboy_Up]

We're all homers, but you Yoakum guys take it to a new level with your never ending string of 30 point victory projections. You beat my team, but if the ball bounces a different way, you could have been 0-3 against District 14 - 2A Division 1. And yes I know if the ball bounces your way, maybe you are 3-0, but all the games were close. And why shouldn't they be as you are very close, enrollment wise, to being in that exact district, Take 30 kids away from your school and these are all district games.

My take on your team is you are not nearly as good as you portray here. Yes you have some talent, but top to bottom I'm not seeing that big of a difference between us and you, and I can assure you we'd rather play you then Hallettsville or Hempstead, at least this year. If i had to be more precise, I'd say I don't see the over all team speed that really good teams have. You do have some athletes, but not top to bottom like some of the good 2A teams like Yoe, Refugio, Hallettsville or Hempstead. And, I don't think you are in shape. Late in our game your linemen were grabbing and tackleing instead of moving their feet. Take a look at the film and I think you'll see the same thing. Yoakum has always had size, your teams were huge 2-3 years ago, but it always seemed like you wanted size and bulk over speed and conditioning. Maybe I'm wrong about that, but that what it seems from the outside looking in.

As an old football dad I can also tell you that all the talk about being relentless and finishing and all that tends to fall on deaf ears. Watching a son play football on friday nights is a great thing. But piling on expectations and trying to fire them up is not what I'd suggest. As my son told me when I started to do that with him, old men talk, young men go to war. He had a point. I'd encourage you to enjoy these years, and trust that your sons know very well what is at stake. Yoakum is certainly capable of competing for a playoff spot, but it's not going to be because some dads came here and fired up the team. Your boys will either find the desire together, or they wont. As dads we want them to experience it because we know how great it is when all band together to give it their all. Its not automatic nor is it common place. But that's what makes it special when it happens. But its not up to us.

[hookandladder]

We're all homers, but you Yoakum guys take it to a new level with your never ending string of 30 point victory projections. You beat my team, but if the ball bounces a different way, you could have been 0-3 against District 14 - 2A Division 1. And yes I know if the ball bounces your way, maybe you are 3-0, but all the games were close. And why shouldn't they be as you are very close, enrollment wise, to being in that exact district, Take 30 kids away from your school and these are all district games.

My take on your team is you are not nearly as good as you portray here. Yes you have some talent, but top to bottom I'm not seeing that big of a difference between us and you, and I can assure you we'd rather play you then Hallettsville or Hempstead, at least this year. If i had to be more precise, I'd say I don't see the over all team speed that really good teams have. You do have some athletes, but not top to bottom like some of the good 2A teams like Yoe, Refugio, Hallettsville or Hempstead. And, I don't think you are in shape. Late in our game your linemen were grabbing and tackleing instead of moving their feet. Take a look at the film and I think you'll see the same thing. Yoakum has always had size, your teams were huge 2-3 years ago, but it always seemed like you wanted size and bulk over speed and conditioning. Maybe I'm wrong about that, but that what it seems from the outside looking in.

As an old football dad I can also tell you that all the talk about being relentless and finishing and all that tends to fall on deaf ears. Watching a son play football on friday nights is a great thing. But piling on expectations and trying to fire them up is not what I'd suggest. As my son told me when I started to do that with him, old men talk, young men go to war. He had a point. I'd encourage you to enjoy these years, and trust that your sons know very well what is at stake. Yoakum is certainly capable of competing for a playoff spot, but it's not going to be because some dads came here and fired up the team. Your boys will either find the desire together, or they wont. As dads we want them to experience it because we know how great it is when all band together to give it their all. Its not automatic nor is it common place. But that's what makes it special when it happens. But its not up to us.

Well said my friend, that sure sums it up.

[Pudlugger]

Pudlike? I think I've been insulted.:confused:

[txsportswriter]

I don't know who nor do I care who reads these posts. As a matter of fact, I really don't think many of our kids even know about this site. IMO, a majority of the people on here are either coaches and/or dads. I just like saying what I feel. And I could care less if that makes me a so-called HOMER. I have a son on the team and want the Bulldogs to win just as bad as the next dad. This is pretty much a sounding board and I'm sounding off on the way I see things. Freedom of speech baby. Besides, myself and YTBulldogs do this 3A downlow stuff just to fire each other up... LMAO :wave:

In closing, if you don't like my posts, don't read them. I agree with a lot of the rah rah about the players not needing dads to fire them up, but I think it's better than a dad who just sits back and doesn't say a thing.
My son knows I care deeply about him and his team and we talk all the time. We have a love for the game that most wouldn't understand. Besides, if I wanted to try and fire the guys up, all I would have to do is post something on Facebook. More players are on that than any of these sites.

IMO, Yoakum is a much better ball club than Edna, Hallettsville and Rice Consolidated this year. True, we are banged up right now, but these Bulldogs will get it together and make some noise in District 26-3A. Again, that's just my opinion and if it's a homer suggestion, so be it. I can say it.:tisk:

I wish the best of luck to Edna, Giddings and La Grange this season (except when they're playing my 'Dogs of course).

Myself and YTBulldogs are trying to help instill an attitude and fan following like we experienced in Daingerfield and other places we have been growing up. I've taken my son to D'field games and he always asked my why Yoakum couldn't be like that. Things can change in Yoakum and we want to do our part to make it happen. Yoakum has always been known as a baseball town and when we started CYFL in Yoakum 8 years ago, we told the kids that would change. We wanted to have just as much tradition in football as we did baseball. I'm not sure if that will ever happen, but we have tried and will continue to do so.

GO BULLDOGS!!!

[YTBulldogs]

txsportswriter,

You don't have to explain yourself here. Not a bigger Bulldog supporter than you. Not to mention, no one has done more for our youth programs over the last decade than you and Coach Perry. You speak your mind, and nothing wrong with that.

Do we always agree with it, no. But, you have the success of Yoakum in the forefront when you make comments and always support the kid's in all sports.

We need 3,000 more backer's like you at the games. Will Yoakum fan support for football ever be like Cuero, Devine Gonzales or Daingerfield, most likely not. But, can't say we didn't try. Not all town folks can devote that much of an effort to be a boost to their home town team. It's not easy, and takes commitment, and our town isn't willing to give it.

[BigGreen61]

txsportswriter,

You don't have to explain yourself here. Not a bigger Bulldog supporter than you. Not to mention, no one has done more for our youth programs over the last decade than you and Coach Perry. You speak your mind, and nothing wrong with that.

Do we always agree with it, no. But, you have the success of Yoakum in the forefront when you make comments and always support the kid's in all sports.

We need 3,000 more backer's like you at the games. Will Yoakum fan support for football ever be like Cuero, Devine Gonzales or Daingerfield, most likely not. But, can't say we didn't try. Not all town folks can devote that much of an effort to be a boost to their home town team. It's not easy, and takes commitment, and our town isn't willing to give it.

The newspaper fart & the EMT fart are at it again lol. Guys the kids play the game no matter what we say jus saying

[1st and goal]

You don't think they know that?

Let them yak.

[YTBulldogs]

Yeah, we just boost ourselves here. No other Yoakumites know about 3ADL. Same with all the posters and their rant about their teams too I'd say. That's what this site is for. BS'ing HS football, and out thoughts of how our season is going.

[YTBulldogs]

PF (Trueblue) might need some assistance with the "DOGS Flag Patrol" in Smithville if your available? We'll need all hands on deck for the district opener. One of the current runners wasn't sure he could make it. He'll know for sure by next Monday, and if your available, love to have you down there with your motivation spirit you provide at the games I noticed.

Also, we are organizing a community send off for the team, as they make their journey to Smithville. :cheerl: Maybe you can let your JH kid's out early, to attend it? Let's get a LARGE turn out with all the signs, blue-horns, cheerleaders, band, boosters, etc and let the boy's know we support them wholeheartedly. :cheerl: They'll need it. Hope we have a good showing in the stands over there too? PF, thanks for any help you can lend in helping us get more spirit going at the games. They see you going nut's, it will inspire them hopefully to at least cheer. :cheerl: We have a wig and some face paint for you as well if you care to get that spirited.:cheerl:

[buff4ever]

PF (Trueblue) might need some assistance with the "DOGS Flag Patrol" in Smithville if your available? We'll need all hands on deck for the district opener. One of the current runners wasn't sure he could make it. He'll know for sure by next Monday, and if your available, love to have you down there with your motivation spirit you provide at the games I noticed.

Also, we are organizing a community send off for the team, as they make their journey to Smithville. :cheerl: Maybe you can let your JH kid's out early, to attend it? Let's get a LARGE turn out with all the signs, blue-horns, cheerleaders, band, boosters, etc and let the boy's know we support them wholeheartedly. :cheerl: They'll need it. Hope we have a good showing in the stands over there too? PF, thanks for any help you can lend in helping us get more spirit going at the games. They see you going nut's, it will inspire them hopefully to at least cheer. :cheerl: We have a wig and some face paint for you as well if you care to get that spirited.:cheerl:

You do know yall don't play this Friday right?:)

[hollywood]

Interested to see how this one plays out. I think Smithville wins by 14+

[YTBulldogs]

You do know yall don't play this Friday right?:)

Very aware. That's why the original poll I started, states Oct 12th. And, in the last post I made to Trueblue, it said next Monday that guy would give me his status. Thanks for the interest though buff, and good luck to ya'll in district.

[YTBulldogs]

buff, I met some good people from Giddings when my wife was in the hospital for several months. Raymond and Marcilla Nunez. Their son played for Giddings and now coaches at Brookshire/Royal. Anyways, stayed a many nights with Mrs. Nunez (prayed with, late night chat's) at the Seton House, a place the Seton Hospital in Austin allowed us to use with family members being in the hospital for long periods of time. Can't wait for our game with ya'll in Nov, they are coming to Yoakum, and we will have dinner prior to game and get to visit during the game. Hopefully they take our offer to stay the night with us? Mr. N (as I called him) loves is Buff's, and it's all we talked about (our teams) while he had his heart transplant, and my wife battled from her ruptured bowel. Awesome people. God bless them.

[buff4ever]

buff, I met some good people from Giddings when my wife was in the hospital for several months. Raymond and Marcilla Nunez. Their son played for Giddings and now coaches at Brookshire/Royal. Anyways, stayed a many nights with Mrs. Nunez (prayed with, late night chat's) at the Seton House, a place the Seton Hospital in Austin allowed us to use with family members being in the hospital for long periods of time. Can't wait for our game with ya'll in Nov, they are coming to Yoakum, and we will have dinner prior to game and get to visit during the game. Hopefully they take our offer to stay the night with us? Mr. N (as I called him) loves is Buff's, and it's all we talked about (our teams) while he had his heart transplant, and my wife battled from her ruptured bowel. Awesome people. God bless them.

They are a good family, and there have been several Nunez boys playing on the Buffalo Line over the years.

[YTBulldogs]

Well, we are getting healthier. One two-way starter out for the year, other 3 appear likely to return before end of season, and hopefully a few for this game. One, returned last week and looked pretty good. Like I said, we'll need all hand's on deck for this opener.

[YTBulldogs]

Trueblue, I sent you a private message. Did you get it? PF, if you can help next Friday with the DOGS Flag Patrol @ Smithville, LMK ASAP. If not, I need to find a back up in case the regular can't make as is possible. I'll know for sure come Monday. Just let me bud if your available.

[duckhunter]

Do the Yoakum receivers wear baseball gloves to catch the footballs with or do they allow them to wear receiver gloves?

[YTBulldogs]

Versus Rice with a couple TD drops, I think they had the wrong gloves on, and used baseball gloves. Man, what happened to the good old days, bare hands?

[29-3aFAN]

I do not understand Yoakum's play calling but I'm not a coach. But, if I had deep threats on the outside like they do, I'm not going to wait to get it to them. Especially one on one, I'm going to get it to them early and often to establish the run.

[YTBulldogs]

I do not understand Yoakum's play calling but I'm not a coach. But, if I had deep threats on the outside like they do, I'm not going to wait to get it to them. Especially one on one, I'm going to get it to them early and often to establish the run.

True, and I think it will become more like that. Pass to open the run. We do have more passing yards than rushing now. Balance would be nice, but--this team makeup and play makers are for more passing than running IMO.

We hardly ever deviated from the play sheet in non district games. They had a game plan in non-district to evaluate and try to garner some depth in the process, and they did it. They know what will work and to whom we will rely on mainly come this Friday, and the district games.

One surprise to me, is the crossing pattern to Timmy Blakeney. Have not seen it at all, yet. Or, just throwing him the ball period. I think they used him at a new position in ND, but--he sure was solid as a receiver last year. He has like 1 or 2 catches this year I believe. He is fearless over the middle. I'd use that trait he has for going over the middle, to even help more on the deep routes outside to Keith and TJ. Now, you want some productive running in the mix, can you visualize Tre' Hights running the "wildcat" at times?

All in all, I'm pleased. Except all the injury's we sustained. We played all the kid's in ND and gave them a chance to show what they can do. What was the outcome of that you ask? My observation, we will have to play multiple players both ways, and even on special teams. ND proved that. Would we rather have the luxury of LaGrange, and no 2 way starters? Of course. We are a small 3A school, and just don't have the numbers. The productive team level really declined IMO when other players were in there, other than are more talented players. These multiple players know who they are, and will just have to step it up, and get prepared not to ever come of the field. We just don't have the numbers to afford them out of the game IMO. I see it as our only chance to secure a playoff spot. Our starting 11 on either side of the ball, is as strong talent wise as any team in the district. It's when we give them extended time out of the game (and this includes special teams), that we decline in productivity IMO.

This coaching staff is atop of this team I assure you. And, I give them credit for not caving in, when the fan's spoke up in meaningless non district games, to keep the playmakers out there, or to run certain plays. They had to see what the backups were capable of doing, and they didn't deviate from their district preparing process. I'm excited with our potential heading into Smithville. We are getting healthy, and we are a team that can't sustain anymore injury's. Don't have that quality depth to throw in there if it happens in district. First half of the season MVP IMO, Yoakum's trainer, Carrie Frank and her student trainers. Worked hard rehabbing the players and getting us healthy for district.

I used a lot of "IMO" in this posting. I'm no coach, so---that's all I can offer. I fully support this staff and trust their judgments.

[regaleagle]

Yeah, we just boost ourselves here. No other Yoakumites know about 3ADL. Same with all the posters and their rant about their teams too I'd say. That's what this site is for. BS'ing HS football, and out thoughts of how our season is going.

You're right about that, YT. In Argyle, I'll bet there's no more than a handful of fans that are even aware of 3ADL, yet our community support and fanbase of the team is susbstantial, mainly because it's such a small community where everything revolves around the participation of the kids in school-sponsored activities. And because of what Coach Rodgers and his Staff have been able to do in all sports. They have done a very good job organizing support with the Booster Club, Argyle Broadcasting Network, and upgrading the school homepage and internet site. The Denton Chronicle usually covers most all of Argyle's sports activities. But not any moreso than the Victoria Advocate would cover Yoakum's, or Cuero's. Yoakum and Cuero have a much
larger township than does Argyle. Enrollment-wise, Argyle is at 660. We just don't have much of a township. Anything outlying our community is counted in a different school district. Yoakum, Cuero, Goliad.....these are towns with outlying rural populations within the school district that include students in the school district. Your town needs to win to bring out these people to the games. Many of them have grown kids that once attended, but now they are gone. My son is grown now too, but I still support Argyle.

[YTBulldogs]

I do not understand Yoakum's play calling but I'm not a coach. But, if I had deep threats on the outside like they do, I'm not going to wait to get it to them. Especially one on one, I'm going to get it to them early and often to establish the run.

With a 39.6% pass completion rating, that don't help either. Sure hampers what play's you can call when you miss the easy throws. And, it's not all the QB's fault. Several easy catches were dropped by are talented receiving corp. Both positions need to step up and perform to their level.

[txsportswriter]

I think the 'Dogs will be OK. The playmakers will get their touches and we have more than a few who can take it to the house on any given play. I think the key on Friday night between both ball clubs will be the play of both lines. The battle in the trenches will be the deciding factor and whichever team's linemen have the stamina to FINISH in the 4th quarter will be the team that wins IMO. I think Smithville will have a TD lead at the half, but the Bulldogs will get a last minute FG to win by two, 23-21. Let's Go Bulldogs!

[YTBulldogs]

I think the 'Dogs will be OK. The playmakers will get their touches and we have more than a few who can take it to the house on any given play. I think the key on Friday night between both ball clubs will be the play of both lines. The battle in the trenches will be the deciding factor and whichever team's linemen have the stamina to FINISH in the 4th quarter will be the team that wins IMO. I think Smithville will have a TD lead at the half, but the Bulldogs will get a last minute FG to win by two, 23-21. Let's Go Bulldogs!

Totally concur with this blocking assessment. Must maintain the blocks longer (stay engaged), to get the RB's through the openings. And, our lack of running outside IMO, is the poor blocking from the wideouts and FB's. They want to catch the bombs, but--sure can't block very well at times.

The DL too needs to step up and get some type of pressure. Overall, our entire team needs to play to their potential now that the games are for real.

[Purple Rain]

"...Late in our game your linemen were grabbing and tackleing instead of moving their feet. Take a look at the film and I think you'll see the same thing. Yoakum has always had size, your teams were huge 2-3 years ago, but it always seemed like you wanted size and bulk over speed and conditioning..."

Same thing can be said of Smithville. Line is very big but not particularly agile nor well conditioned. Smithville also undisciplined. In their game against Liberty Hill, I would guess they had personal foul penalties that would almost equal the length of the football field. Get them frustrated and they lose their poise and composure.

[BigGreen61]

To much Tigers running game for the Dogs to handle this week. If Rice can run it then the Tigers will have there way. Good luck.

[YTBulldogs]

To much Tigers running game for the Dogs to handle this week. If Rice can run it then the Tigers will have there way. Good luck.

How did I know you'd predict this BG61? Still love ya, and good luck back at ya.

We on for our annual bet next week?

[YTBulldogs]

"...Late in our game your linemen were grabbing and tackleing instead of moving their feet. Take a look at the film and I think you'll see the same thing. Yoakum has always had size, your teams were huge 2-3 years ago, but it always seemed like you wanted size and bulk over speed and conditioning..."

Same thing can be said of Smithville. Line is very big but not particularly agile nor well conditioned. Smithville also undisciplined. In their game against Liberty Hill, I would guess they had personal foul penalties that would almost equal the length of the football field. Get them frustrated and they lose their poise and composure.

Yup, we have good moments with our OL technic, then we have pitiful, lazy periods. Will agree PR. Staying engaged to me, is the most important. They have been working hard to get it through the "hogs" head, to do that. Just need a few seconds of engagement, to get the wheels through the hole, and onto paydirt.

[YTBulldogs]

Job #1 for the Bulldogs this Friday, stop that potent Tiger running game. Make them throw into our strength, the secondary. We have not proved we can stop the run, so-- I see a massive dose of it from a talented Smithville team. We've been trying to tackle high, need to cut them leg's out, and get the RB down. YAC been killing us this year up front.

[YTBulldogs]

Yoakum 21
Smithville 20

[Dawgfan64]

Smithville is gonna run, run and run some more...why wouldn't they. We haven't showed that we can consistently stop the run. Good coaching would say that they stuff the ball down our throats until we stop them. On that note the defense knows it's coming and has to rise to that next level. If we can get them out of their game and ball control our defense some rest, then it might be a very interesting game. If the team that played against Rice shows up, then pump up the basketballs.

[YTBulldogs]

Yoakum will be short handed a couple players. Was hoping they'd be back from injury, following the bye week. Just not ready yet. I will say, I'm pleased with the revamped OL, and the replacements we have in for the starters for this game. They're eager to get their shot, and kinda added some excitement back into the mix. Love their wide-eyed appearance when learning the game plan here. It means something to them. If they perform like they practiced this week, and stay engaged throughout the play till the whistle blows, we could have success moving the ball on the ground. Still think, we have to throw first, to open up the running game against SV. Our WR's, provides speed SV hasn't seen to date. Got to stay out of 2nd, and 3rd and long. So, our 1st down play's must be successful most of the time here.

As far as the "D" side, one of our main starters will miss this Friday too. The DL, must make the stop on first contact. Read their key's as they have been coached to do the past 2-weeks in preparing for the Tigers. Freelancing against this talented Tiger running team, could result in some nice long gainers. A nice, old-fashion, getting 8 or 9 DOGS on the ball carrier would certainly help preventing those YAC. Hitting them ball carriers high, and you'll get run over. Cut them low. Load the box, and force Smithville to go to the air, into the teeth of our strongest asset on the defense side, our secondary. No way IMO, Smithville will be successful throwing it against this group.

Bottomline here. OL stay engaged with blocks. Drive them till the whistle. If you miss a initial block (which happens in games), go get another Tiger down the field. Don't stop and look around, bewildered. The seniors we have on the OL for this one, must communicate, and make sure the new OL'ers we have in place for the injured starters, are sure of their blocking assignments prior to snap. Talk, talk, talk prior to snap.

When on defense. Put some of that old-fashioned, "all to the ball" DOG attack on the Tiger ball carriers. Yes, we will have numerous going both ways, but--we have been playing that way, for years now, and it's nothing new. It will be a war, just be in position to win this bad boy, in the 4th. Can't have boneheaded penalties either. I call it, have controlled aggression. They sometimes think it means, a cheap shot. Those late hit's, roughing the kicker, have had some major blows, when we had a real chance to win games.

Just my take on how we will win this hard contest. It's a 5 week war now, and I hope the Bulldog faithful, make the trip north, and get vocal in this one, and show the boy's we are united behind them? All in district are 0-0, and our playoff's start in Smithville tomorrow night.

[YTBulldogs]

Smithville is gonna run, run and run some more...why wouldn't they. We haven't showed that we can consistently stop the run. Good coaching would say that they stuff the ball down our throats until we stop them. On that note the defense knows it's coming and has to rise to that next level. If we can get them out of their game and ball control our defense some rest, then it might be a very interesting game. If the team that played against Rice shows up, then pump up the basketballs.

So true. Load the box, and make them try to throw on our secondary.

[pacman]

So true. Load the box, and make them try to throw on our secondary.

Good luck to your guys YT. Hope that our side of the district can pull it out for the win.:wave:

[YTBulldogs]

Good luck to your guys YT. Hope that our side of the district can pull it out for the win.:wave:

Same to my friends in Gonzales. I got ya'll winning 28-20.

[Pudlugger]

Where are the Smithville posters? Jr7 where are you? This is a big game for both teams. Good luck to both for an injury free good game.

[YTBulldogs]

Same to your Lep's Pud. Hope Hernandez is ok? He usually always post's in regards to his talented Tigers.

It will be a tuffy for sure over there in Smithville. Getting good vibes through this week from my BULLDOGS in their preparation. We are going with the kid's that want to be in this key district opener, and will give it their all, and they truly have the teams success as job #1.

Looking for a nail-bitter here, and the team that play's in control when it will get nasty out there with some mouthing, will benefit greatly, from not getting personal fouls when they lose thier cool out on the field. Controlled aggression is key. It's no secret, we must do what we have not done lately, STOP THE RUN, and force them to the air on us. Hit the Tiger RB's low and stop the YAC. We been hitting high lately and getting drug for additional yards for some reason. When on offense, Yoakum needs to throw when they expect a run, and run when they think we will throw and keep them off balance. Smithville is very talented on "D". Dog OL'ers and WR's must stay engaged with their blocks, to the whistle. Staying out of long 2nd and 3rd downs is crucial in this one. Limit those ugly 3 and outs as much as possible. Long sustained, relentless to finish, eat the clock up, would be ideal.

Yes, the time has come. Such a pretty morning/day here after the Lord blessed us with a couple inches of rain yesterday. The smell of football in the air. Nothing finer than that. Great day to be a Bulldog!!!! GATA DOGS!!!!

[BigGreen61]

Hey YT I heard u better get there early there's no parking. You might have to park in the neighborhood.

[YTBulldogs]

Yeah, heard that too BG61. Good luck to Caleb and his Cueromates. I see ya'll playing well here, and a real chance at winning this one. I hear your healthy, and that Soph RB makes his appearance. Also think Blake, with that RB returning, will have open receivers. Should be a exciting game for sure.

[29-3aFAN]

7-7 3 min left in 1st qrter

[29-3aFAN]

10-10 1:35 till half

[SintonFan]

Sounds like a good game!

[29-3aFAN]

10-10 halftime

[29-3aFAN]

17-17 mid 3rd

[WILDGOBBLERCAT]

update?? TIA

[29-3aFAN]

Yoakum won, 27-24

[Pudlugger]

Congratulations to the Yoakum Bulldogs on a very big win. The D26 race is now in full throttle.

[regaleagle]

I guess that would be considered a very big win for Yoakum tonite. Congrats to the Bulldogs and good luck in district.

[SintonFan_inAustin]

congrats Yoakum on starting 1-0 in district.

[YTBulldogs]

Was a great game!!! Smithville solid team, well coached and they had 4 solid RB's they used. Last pass into EZ for potential winning TD by the Tigers, with just over a minute remaining, went against to wrong CB, Yoakum's Keith Ratley, who made a great INT to keep one foot inbounds in EZ to seal the win. They thrown away from him all night, till their final pass. And, it cost them.

Yoakum played with 3 starting OL'ers out. 2 going in were already out and lost another just prior to half, and will most likely miss the Cuero game next week too. Amazing, the kid's that came in, gave it their all and did a descent job filling in. Love their attitude, and the excitement they added being in there.

Big spark plug for Yoakum was Soph QB Tre' Hights. "In Tre' we Trust" I say. He seen a few snaps for the first time last week (been out hurt), but--this week he was our offense. Unstoppable on what I call the operating out of the "wildcat". Dude can make moves not seen in years by a Yoakum runner. We played both QB's and Hermes did well too, with another long bomb for a TD to TJ Hights was a big play for us to tie it up.

Yes, BIG BIG win for sure. Smithville tough place to play at, and we did it. Congrats to Regan Jacobs, and his golden toe. His 37 yard FG with just over 2:00 minutes remaining, was the deciding factor in the game. Kick would of been good from 50. No time to celebrate, it's focus time, Gobblers there next Friday. One game at a time boys. Damn it feels good being 1-0, with a win over a quality team in this stout district.

[txsportswriter]

I concur vittles. It feels damn good to be 1-0 in district, but we must focus all of our intention on Cuero. It'll feel even much better to be 2-0. The Gobblers will not want to lose two in a row to start district and will bring their A game. Kudos to all the youngsters who had to fill in for injuries. A true total team effort. Great job Bulldogs!


Was a great game!!! Smithville solid team, well coached and they had 4 solid RB's they used. Last pass into EZ for potential winning TD by the Tigers, with just over a minute remaining, went against to wrong CB, Yoakum's Keith Ratley, who made a great INT to keep one foot inbounds in EZ to seal the win. They thrown away from him all night, till their final pass. And, it cost them.

Yoakum played with 3 starting OL'ers out. 2 going in were already out and lost another just prior to half, and will most likely miss the Cuero game next week too. Amazing, the kid's that came in, gave it their all and did a descent job filling in. Love their attitude, and the excitement they added being in there.

Big spark plug for Yoakum was Soph QB Tre' Hights. "In Tre' we Trust" I say. He seen a few snaps for the first time last week (been out hurt), but--this week he was our offense. Unstoppable on what I call the operating out of the "wildcat". Dude can make moves not seen in years by a Yoakum runner. We played both QB's and Hermes did well too, with another long bomb for a TD to TJ Hights was a big play for us to tie it up.

Yes, BIG BIG win for sure. Smithville tough place to play at, and we did it. Congrats to Regan Jacobs, and his golden toe. His 37 yard FG with just over 2:00 minutes remaining, was the deciding factor in the game. Kick would of been good from 50. No time to celebrate, it's focus time, Gobblers there next Friday. One game at a time boys. Damn it feels good being 1-0, with a win over a quality team.

[pacman]

YT good game for yall. Good luck next week. We had that game, just could not shake the fumble bug. I think our guys will bring there A game at home next week when we play the buffs!!!!

[txsportswriter]

I think the 'Dogs will be OK. The playmakers will get their touches and we have more than a few who can take it to the house on any given play. I think the key on Friday night between both ball clubs will be the play of both lines. The battle in the trenches will be the deciding factor and whichever team's linemen have the stamina to FINISH in the 4th quarter will be the team that wins IMO. I think Smithville will have a TD lead at the half, but the Bulldogs will get a last minute FG to win by two, 23-21. Let's Go Bulldogs!

I was pretty close on this one..... Except it was a field goal in the last two minutes and we won by 3 instead of 2. Played out the way I predicted though.... Great job Bulldogs!

[Pudlugger]

Great game especially to win in Smithville with so many players injured. YT no more poor mouthing on the board about how little depth and how small your school is you hear?:wave:. Apparently your team has some real depth and plenty of character to make up for numbers. It seems that Yoakum just always has the talent year in and year out. amazing since the enrollment is small but the heart is large for football in Y Town. Good luck with your cross county rival Cuero they are a capable bunch down there and just like yall they like to win football games. 1-0 start not bad.

[YTBulldogs]

Great game especially to win in Smithville with so many players injured. YT no more poor mouthing on the board about how little depth and how small your school is you hear?:wave:. Apparently your team has some real depth and plenty of character to make up for numbers. It seems that Yoakum just always has the talent year in and year out. amazing since the enrollment is small but the heart is large for football in Y Town. Good luck with your cross county rival Cuero they are a capable bunch down there and just like yall they like to win football games. 1-0 start not bad.

Honestly Pud, I can't disagree with you. However, I didn't see this depth handling the job they were forced into in this one. I promise, no more injury talk. Damn if we didn't prove last night we have some depth.;)

[gameface]

Bravo Dawg's! Way to latch onto the juggler in Tiger country.

[YTBulldogs]

Another stunning play in this one, was our CB chasing down and striping the ball from a Tiger, who had broke loose for a 50 yard gallop up SV sideline. Near the 15 going in, he was caught from behind, stripped and thwarted this TD. We forced 3 fumbles recovering them all, while we didn't fumble all night. Both teams did throw an INT. Great job protecting the rock Bulldogs. That's how you win on the road. We will need that in Cuero too.:clap:

[Gone Fishing]

Was a great game!!! Smithville solid team, well coached and they had 4 solid RB's they used. Last pass into EZ for potential winning TD by the Tigers, with just over a minute remaining, went against to wrong CB, Yoakum's Keith Ratley, who made a great INT to keep one foot inbounds in EZ to seal the win. They thrown away from him all night, till their final pass. And, it cost them.

Yoakum played with 3 starting OL'ers out. 2 going in were already out and lost another just prior to half, and will most likely miss the Cuero game next week too. Amazing, the kid's that came in, gave it their all and did a descent job filling in. Love their attitude, and the excitement they added being in there.

Big spark plug for Yoakum was Soph QB Tre' Hights. "In Tre' we Trust" I say. He seen a few snaps for the first time last week (been out hurt), but--this week he was our offense. Unstoppable on what I call the operating out of the "wildcat". Dude can make moves not seen in years by a Yoakum runner. We played both QB's and Hermes did well too, with another long bomb for a TD to TJ Hights was a big play for us to tie it up.

Yes, BIG BIG win for sure. Smithville tough place to play at, and we did it. Congrats to Regan Jacobs, and his golden toe. His 37 yard FG with just over 2:00 minutes remaining, was the deciding factor in the game. Kick would of been good from 50. No time to celebrate, it's focus time, Gobblers there next Friday. One game at a time boys. Damn it feels good being 1-0, with a win over a quality team in this stout district.

Congrats YT, Ive been a little behind today getting on the downlow. I predicted yall may do it and in the poll picking GOW I said your game was more important because one of the favorites in the district will be 0-1 and one of the non favorites will be 1-0 (Yoakum) and that could make a big difference later on for a playoff spot. Again congrats, I'm pulling for you guys.

[Dawgfan64]

Congrats to the BULLDOGS and best of luck to Smithville against LaGrange!