IOTA -- Getting off to a better start in 2018 is the main goal for the Basile Bearcats.
Last year, Basile started the season 1-3, but managed to pull it together to make a quarter-final appearance in the Class 1A playoffs.
But, in order for the Bearcats to get going this season, they must face one of their toughest tasks this year; taking on a resurgent Iota Bulldog football team that went 8-2 and made it to the regional round of the Class 3A playoffs. Game time is set for 7 p.m. in Iota.
“There is a reason why they won nine ball games last year,” stated Basile head coach Kevin Bertrand. “They are a very good team that return a ton of players from last year. They do everything right and are not afraid to take it straight to you. We are going to do all of the little things correctly and put ourselves in the best position to win.”
Basile came out of last week’s jamboree with some mixed reviews. In their first game against Sacred Heart, the Bearcats dominated up front, going on a long, 13 play drive that resulted in a field goal.
Basile then found the speed when needed, busting a sweep around the left side of the offense for 78 yards and a touchdown. However, the Bearcats did not fare as well against Pine Prairie, coughing up the ball on their first possession and punting after a three and out on their second possession.
“We just ran out of gas against Pine Prairie,” said Bertrand. “One of the things we wanted to work on in both games was our depth. We shuffled a number of guys in and out of the game, hoping to find players to step up and give us some good minutes. There are some details to iron out, but there is nothing we are shaking our heads about.”
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TRACEY JAGNEAUX Sports Editor