Here are “three things to watch” as Grimsley prepares to host North Mecklenburg in the first round of the 4A West Playoffs.
- Grimsley running back Mitchell Summers in the pass protection. Mitchell has been a force on the ground this year for the Whirlies, rushing for over 1,380 yards and 28 touchdowns. But several times this year we have him take on blitzing linebackers, allowing the quarterback time to step-up and throw for scores. Last week against Northern Guilford, Summers made the right read, picked up the backer and allowed Brandon to throw over the middle for a 26 yard touchdown pass. Its key contributions like this that often go unnoticed but play a huge role in how the game plays out. Expect North Meck to blitz often and expect Summers to be ready.
- Grimsley’s defense containing the three talented Viking running backs of Tate, Mckee and McBean. They have combined for 1,251 yards of offense and all three are very good in open space, swerving and weaving for extra yards. Plus, Viking quarterback Zion Hailey does a good job hitting them on wheel and out routes. Grimsley’s defense needs to identify different personal groups and take smart angles to keep these guys contained. North Meck has struggled in pass protection, as Hailey has only completed 52% of his passes for 7 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. But if they get the run game going that could open up the play-action passing game and allow Hailey time to make plays with his arm.
- Grimsley’s offensive identity now that it is playoff time. All season we have wondered what plays the Whirlies have held back until the games really, really mattered…and now we get to find out. Will we see an up-tempo look or the more deliberate “check with me” spread option all season. The Whirlies average over seven touchdowns a game this year and I expect that to continue against a Viking defense that has struggled against the pass all year.