Unconventional is the word of the week at Plainview.
That’s what the Indians will face in their first game of the season on Friday when the travel to Aubrey, Texas. The matchup with the Class 2A Texas school isn’t out of the ordinary because of its border implications, but because of the style in which the Chapparals play.
Aubrey is unconventional on defense. More than your average Oklahoma school.
“They’re tagged as a 10-1 and they really fly around on defense,” Plainview coach Chris Berus said of Aubrey. “You have to execute well. They anticipate on making the tackle before you throw.”
After seeing a defense that will put 10 players at the line of scrimmage and more pressure on the quarterback than any team they’ll see all season, the Indians should be ready for everything ahead of them in a loaded District 3A-2.
Besides a relentless rush, the Chapparals have the winningest coach in Texas high school history on their side. G.A. Moore Jr. implemented the 10-1 defense in the 1960s; more than 40 years later it’s led to eight state championships at Celina and Pilot Point and a state-record 412 wins.
After a five-year retirement, Moore returned to coaching at Aubrey in 2009 and led the Chapparals to an 11-2 record in 2A Division II – with the defense that continues to keep people scratching their heads.
One positive in facing the 10-1 is the opportunity for the Indians to spring the big play. With defensive backs cheating up at the line of scrimmage to jam Plainview’s receivers, one elusive pass catcher could mean six points for the Indians. Don’t be surprised if Plainview airs it out more than usual.
“We’ve worked a lot on our pass blocking,” senior left guard Paul Ray said. “They’re gonna line up at least six in the box on every play. It’s gonna be entirely different from what we’re used to but I’m looking forward to it.”
Berus said Ardmore transfer Chad Smith is his starter at quarterback, while the Indians may look to get the ball in running back Blake Campo’s hands on direct snaps as well. Whoever is receiving the snaps better be ready for an unconventional night in Texas.
“I told the QBs every time you throw the ball you’ve got to be ready to get hit in the chin,“ Berus said. “But that’s what I love about this week. It sets the tone for the rest of the season.”
Erik K. Horne
221-6522
