HANCEVILLE — Cody Chambers didn’t need to think of an explanation. The answer was that obvious.

“It’s a pride thing,” the Hanceville High senior said. “We have a lot more pride about ourselves these days.”

That may be the understatement of this football season.

Sitting in Hanceville coach Danny Miller’s office, Chambers described one of the biggest turnarounds of the year. And he wasn’t talking about wins and losses.

Chambers was talking about the Bulldogs’ defense, instead.

There’s no doubt about it, Hanceville has dramatically improved on defense. One year after giving up 45.4 points per game — it was 51 points per game in 2007 — the Bulldogs are holding opposing teams to just 15.5 points per game

Hanceville has also recorded two shutouts this season, holding Carbon Hill and Cold Springs scoreless.

“We’re playing a whole lot better this year. Everyone is taking pride in what we’re doing,” Chambers said. “Our coaches have done a great job with this team, teaching us how to do things right.

“Last year, guys were just running up field trying to make tackles. It’s not like that anymore. We understand our assignments … know what we’re supposed to do in certain situations.”

Defensive stops were a rarity for Hanceville during the previous two seasons. Opposing teams practically scored at will.

According to sophomore defensive back Broc Malcom — who also plays quarterback on offense — the way teams scored on Hanceville was “embarrassing.”

“That was a problem area,” Malcom said. “It was one of our main focuses coming into this season. We knew our offense could score, but the defense had to step up.

“We’ve got some good coaches, and they’ve worked with us a lot on defense … moving people around trying some different things. We’ve really improved in that area.”

An improved defense has helped spark a drastic turnaround for one of the area’s most-storied football programs — Hanceville consistently made deep runs in the playoffs in the 1970s and ’80s, reaching the semifinals three times under hall of fame coach Ray Talley.

After winning four games in the previous four seasons, Hanceville has put together a 4-4 overall record this year.

“This has been a fun season,” Chambers said. “Let’s put it this way: If you’re not playing, then you’re missing out.

“When I’m finished with school, this is something I’m gonna be proud of. I’m proud to be part of this team — the one that started turning this thing around.”

Along with a much-improved defense, Hanceville also touts one of the area’s top running games. Sophomore tailback Diamond Simmons has rushed for more than 1,300 yards, despite seeing limited action in the second half of two games.

Hanceville has two games remaining. The Bulldogs host Winfield (5-3) tonight, and close out the regular season at West Point (1-7) next week.

Justin Graves can be reached by phone at 734-2131, ext. 257 or by e-mail at jgraves@cullmantimes.com.