Republic hits the road Friday to face Ozark, aiming for a more complete performance after a 35-9 home win over Waynesville.
The Tigers’ offense found success through the air against Waynesville, but coach Ryan Cornelsen wants to see more consistency in the run game.
“We haven’t been able to do that consistently,” Cornelsen said. “We’ve got to understand what we’re trying to do and execute that style.”
Defensively, Republic improved its tackling and pursuit compared to the season opener.
“I thought they were playing with great effort and pursuing to the ball,” Cornelsen said. “Usually that means good things defensively will happen.”
Ozark presents new challenges in its second year under a new coaching staff. Cornelsen noted Ozark’s experienced defense and tricky offensive formations.
“They spread you out. They run several different trick formations and try to get you in a bind with alignment,” he said. “You’ve got to be on your toes to what formation, who’s eligible and who’s not eligible.”
Republic’s preparation involves exposing players to these formations at least five times during the week.
Cornelsen emphasized the need for Republic to put together four solid quarters.
“It’s just time for us to put a game together and see what we can be if we play all phases, and play each and every drive with the same intensity,” he said.
You can watch the game live on the Republic Tiger Sports YouTube channel or at republictigersports.com/live Friday at 7pm.
