The Glenbrook Apaches are getting ready to make their third trip to Mississippi of the season. In the previous two tries, Glenbrook didn’t fare too well, but head coach Caleb Carmikle thinks this time the Apaches are better equipped.
“I think we’re definitely prepared for it,” Carmikle said. “We’ve learned a lot of lessons this year, and we have the experience of traveling long distances. I think we’ve grown up a lot since our last long trip like this.”
Even if the Apaches bring their best to Natchez, Mississippi Friday, the task will still be daunting, as the Trinity Episcopal Saints have been a thorn in the side of MAIS opponents for decades.
“I did a little bit of research on every team on the schedule when I got here,” Carmikle said. “From my time at Arkansas Tech I know the Natchez area pumps out a lot of college talent. I know Trinity has a good tradition and have been winning football games for a long time in this association.”
Practice has been upbeat this week for the Apaches coming off another loss, this time at the hands of Union Christian Academy. The Apaches fell short as a team, and will need to shore up the issues that plagued them in that game to have a shot in this one.
“They showed up ready to work,” Carmikle said. “We had a good day of practice with our install. We’re working on executing in certain situations.”
On film, Carmikle said the challenge looks steep.
“They’re extremely athletic,” Carmikle said. “They have skill guys who can straight up go. They aren’t really one-dimensional either. If they have a weakness it might be up front.”
The trenches is where the Apaches may be able to get going this week. Carmikle said if possible he would like to control the clock this week with the running game.
“Crucial to our success is holding our blocks, finishing those blocks,” Carmikle said. “We have to hold those blocks to the whistle and give our running backs lanes to run through. If we can do that and control the line of scrimmage it gives us the opportunity to throw the football. They’re faster than us, but if we’re methodical in what we do we’ll have a chance to drive the field and hopefully punch it in.”
The Apaches and Saints will kickoff in Natchez Friday at 7 p.m.
