Trust and talent: Plattsburg Tigers ready for high-pressure clash with Bishop LeBlond
By Calvin Silvers
The Plattsburg Tigers are making waves in the 8-man football scene after their transition from 11-man just two seasons ago. Right out of the gate, they found success, making a strong run to the state quarterfinals against South Holt last season.
While fans last saw star quarterback Isaia Howard in that quarterfinal clash, new quarterback Tyler Ariano has stepped up, leading the Tigers to a fantastic start this season with the excitement building in the community.
“We still have the talent to win games, but how we win might look different and we have to accept that,” head coach Brandon Boswell said. “Things may not come as easy as they did, but it doesn’t mean that we can’t be successful.”
“Last year he (Ariano) was on the bench, really didn’t play as he was J.V., now he’s playing with the big dogs,” senior Rylan Langton said. “So, you know, we hyping him up and it keeps him going and it’s working out for us.”
The Tigers are up against the Bishop LeBlond Golden Eagles, who come into this matchup with an impressive 3-0 record. the Golden Eagles made significant strides in the offseason, bolstering their offensive line and quarterback play.
What sets Plattsburg and Leblond apart in 8-man football? Their exciting passing games as both teams are ready to showcase their skills and light up the scoreboard, proving that they can do more than just run the ball.
“It’s just our genetic makeup of the kids around here. We have taller, longer, lankier kids and we really prioritize speed in the weight room and our training,” Boswell said. “I mean, the passing game is a big part of just football’s culture in general.”
The Tigers excel at making big plays in the passing game, thanks to their athleticism and lightning-fast speed, but what truly sets them apart is the trust they have in one another on the field.
Still skeptical, let’s dive into the exciting lineup of weapons the Tigers have at their disposal.
“We got the weapons, we got the guys returning, we got the people coming in, stepping up, we took care of it,” senior Gavin Boyle said. “If you look at our skill weapons, you got Rylan Langton dog, Gavin Boyle dog, Donte Bingham dog, you got Wyatt Davis, he’s a dog. You got Tyler Ariano throwing us the ball, getting the ball in those guys’ hands, you can’t stop us, you can’t guard all of us at once.”
Last season, these two teams clashed twice, with Plattsburg emerging victorious in both matchups by a combined score of 77-56, but both squads know this showdown will likely go down to the wire, where any mistake could prove costly.
The Tigers understand the need for improved run support on the edge, solid play from the nose guard, and disciplined execution. Still, they’re fueled by an unwavering determination to win.
“We want it more, I mean, if we win this game, we get everything we’ve been working for,” Boyle said. “They still ain’t got us ranked, I feel disrespected, the team feels disrespected, and we got to prove that that’s what it is.”
