Memorial’s varsity football team has had a great year so far, heading into Friday night’s game against Abilene Wylie with a record of 5-1.
However, it hasn’t come without its challenges.
The defensive line has endured the biggest challenge, facing numerous injuries that has left some players out for the rest of the season.
“We really do miss those guys and hate it for those guys that are out for the rest of the year,” Memorial coach Marc Bindel said. “But even they would say it’s got to be the next man up and somebody else has to step up and help.”
Bindel said several players have stepped up during the adversity, including Dorian Coleman, Micah James, Josiah Grant, Cuatro Nunez, Malachi Sanders and Jaiden Wetzel. Against Abilene Cooper a couple weeks ago in the district opener, the Mavericks held the Cougars to seven points.
“I think good teams can adjust to the players that they have,” Bindel said. “You know, when we started the year we had a plan on offense and a plan on defense. And based on injuries, the teams you play, or what you find out that you’re good at, you change the plan.”
Coleman, who typically plays defensive end, has been playing defensive tackle for the past few games.
“It’s been tough,” Coleman said. “We had to make a lot of changes, but we’re making it work. It’s been tough, though.”
Sanders is normally a linebacker, but he’s been playing defensive end and using his speed to rush the quarterback.
“It’s been really different,” Sanders said. “I mean it’s a lot of getting used to a lot of practice, but I really like it and I’m getting used to it.”
While they still have some room for improvement, Coleman feels the defense has improved as a whole from the beginning of the year.
“When we played the scrimmage we didn’t do very good against Decatur, but ever since then, we’ve been a lot better,” Coleman said.
Bindel knows Friday’s game will be a big one, but he feels the team is well-prepared to take on the challenges that Wylie will present. The Bulldogs are also 5-1 and undefeated in district.
“You know our guys I think are excited to play in the game,” Bindel said. “Abilene Wylie is a good team – probably one of the better teams we’ve played this year. And so we want to rise to the occasion and play well against the opponent.”
