In the first ever meeting between Coahulla Creek and North Cobb Christian, it did not go as planned. The Colts were energized, determined, and hopeful ahead of the game on Friday morning, and continued their spirits throughout the game. However, the practice and hard work would not be enough vs. the #8 ranked team in the state (in the small private school rankings), with the Colts falling to NCC 48-0.
Scoring has been an issue for Coahulla this year, as the offense has been struggling to find their was into the end zone. Having a lot of inexperience has played a role in that, but quarterback Waelyn Baliles doesn’t want to let the blame lie there. “I need to work on my ball placement,” Baliles explains, “we’re a really young team, and will get better with time.” One of the bright spots in the game was his 32 yard rush for a first down during the third quarter. It was the longest offensive play of the season. Baliles praised his running backs this game with their ability to hit the hole even if it was not wide open. “That helps us get first downs since it is hard for our offense to be able to convert when we are second and ten.” Coahulla’s offense totaled 105 yards against North Cobb last Friday.
Douglas led the offense in rushing yards this game, and was also the leading tackler for defense with five solo tackles. Next to Douglas, Branson Lowery also had a solid game, coming away with four solo tackles and a triumphant sack on Eagles QB Teddy Jarrad. Chevy Joyce also had a big stop at the line, preventing the Eagles from reaching another first down. Consistency is going to be key for the Colts as they continue through their season. It takes a lot of hard work and practice, but this group will grow and develop into a strong, consistent football team.
Baliles has recognized their growth already this season, describing how they were “a little more consistent” offensively against the Eagles than they were against Chattooga, and also asserted that “we’re going to continue to get better every week.”
Heading into this bye-week, the Colts want to focus on themselves more than anything: fixing mistakes, continuing development, maintaining confidence as they search for their first win of the 2024 season. They will welcome the Sonoraville Phoenix at home on September 13th after being on the road the last two weeks.
Sonoraville has started the season 0-2, dropping games to Model and Pickens. They will play North Cobb Christian at home this week before traveling to Varnell to take on our Colts next Friday.
Kickoff between Coahulla Creek and Sonoraville is set for 7:30pm. It will be “Rec & Middle School Night” at The Creek.
Article written by Ava Howell.