Athens picked up its second loss of the season to Logan this past Friday. The difference for Logan was the fact that it was the first team the Bulldogs have faced that can pass effectively.
So through six games, lets take a look at the offense and defense and grade them on their efficiency.
Offense
QB — With Brendan Sano under center, the offense has been very efficient. He has been able to pass accurately as well as run the ball effectively. With more of a spread formation, Sano as a dual threat player is working out well for the Bulldogs. He’s been mistake-free so far. He has not thrown an interception and has no fumbles on the season. Final Grade: B+
RB — This is arguably the strongest position of the offense for the Bulldogs. With Mike Casteel and Tyler Roback in the backfield, both players can produce. If Roback's having a bad day, Casteel steps in and controls the game and vice versa. The past few games, both running backs have had a combined 200 rushing yards. Final Grade: A-
WR — Robert Dickelman’s height has served him well this season. Andy Kostival is a nice slot wide out for Sano to hit for quick passes. The addition of Treyce Albin to the lineup just adds another dimension to the position. Albin can catch, he's quick and has outrun almost every defensive back that has tried covering him. When Sano puts the ball out there, you can guarantee one of these three will come down with the ball, there's been very few drops from the wideouts. Final Grade: A-
O-line — Roback, Casteel and Sano are nothing without the offensive line. The offensive front has gotten praise from coach Ryan Adams and offensive coordinator Nathan White pretty much all season. The offensive success this season has to be credited to the offensive line just as much as the skill positions. Without a strong line, Sano can’t get the ball out to his wide outs and Casteel and Roback don’t have the gaping holes they’ve had all season. Final Grade: A+
Defense
D-Line/LB — Athens’ defensive line has been solid all season. With an exception to a few teams, the Bulldogs’ defensive front and linebackers have contained the run game. Occasionally a team will break free for a big run, but for the most part, Brody Ball, Gage Penrod and Isaiah Butcher have not allowed, typically, any more than three yards on run plays. Final Grade: B+
DB — This is the only position that Athens needs significant work with. The secondary isn’t bad, but there have been several blown coverages that have led to big plays and when a run breaks free, the pursuit to make the tackle. Logan Maxfield has been the star in the secondary. With two interceptions on the season — one for a touchdown — he reads the field well and jumps the ball. For the corners, its just a matter of keeping up with opposing wide receivers the whole route. Final Grade: B-
