According to Greg Watts, the Mortimer Jordan offense can help out the Blue Devil’s defense by keeping the ball against Springville. Here freshman Marquis Dobbs (16) breaks free on a Jordan running play against the Erwin Eagles during last week’s game.

By Charles Prince

The North Jefferson News



It’s a three-game stretch against teams Mortimer Jordan head coach Greg Watts describes as, “basketball on grass.”

Erwin, Springville and Cullman are three pass-happy spread teams, the Devils need to fare well against if they’re going to reach their goal of returning to the postseason after a year’s absence.

“We knew these three games would be a test for us,” Watts said. “We just have to find a way to get it done.”

Last Friday, Erwin came to Morris and posted a 41-17 win, making this week’s trip for the Blue Devils to Springville a crucial one.

“They’re talented,” Watts said. “They’ve got a good quarterback, good running backs and receivers who can make plays.”

The Tigers are led by senior quarterback Trent Baker, who threw for nearly 2,800 yards in 2007, including surpassing the 400-yard mark twice.

The Tigers (2-1 overall, 2-1 region), opened the season with a loss at Walker, but have rebounded with two straight region wins over Pleasant Grove and Curry.

Springville smashed Curry, 50-15, a team Jordan beat in the opening game of the year, 14-6.

According to Watts, his club’s offense can go a long way toward improving the Blue Devil’s defense, just by holding onto the ball.

“We haven’t been consistent on offense,” he said. “We not moving the ball like we should be, and we’re not taking time off the clock. I think our defense will play better once the offense plays the way they should. If we can move the ball effectively, then that will mean less plays for Springville. It’s really a momentum thing changer when your defense gets a chance to rest.”

Last week, the Blue Devil’s defense was on the field for far too long in a 41-17 home loss to Erwin.