Five Reasons Tascosa Can Beat Central

SAN ANGELO, TX-- When the undefeated Central Bobcats host the Amarillo Tascosa Rebels on Friday, the Bobcats will not be overlooking their panhandle counterparts.

But that doesn't mean Central will win. Tascosa (6-3, 2-3) has looked really good for the most part of this season. However, the Rebels have lost three of their last four games and are in danger of missing the playoffs after starting the season 5-0. 

Despite their less-than-good run of form over the last few weeks, Tascosa is a dangerous team to the Bobcats and their undefeated season.

So just how can the Tascosa Rebels come in to San Angelo and beat a team that hasn't lost a home game in the regular season since 2012?

1. Tascosa's rushing attack: The Rebels hardly ever throw the ball. In fact, Tascosa has only taken to the air 53 times this season. That's just 11 percent of their 465 plays in 2017. With an offense that's averaging 347.6 yards per game on the ground, why would you want to throw it?

This rushing attack will be the best Central has faced all year. Tascosa has put up 3,128 yards on the ground this season, 742 yards better than Permian's triple-option. The Rebels also have six players they've relied on to carry the ball this season. Those same six all have over 20 carries and over 200 yards this season. Their biggest weapons, running back Lamaron Smith and quarterback Connor Mcanaul, have combined for 1,268 yards and 17 touchdowns on the ground this season.

2. Bye week bliss: Tascosa had their bye week in week 10. That gave Tascosa an extra week to prepare for Central's arsenal of weapons. Midland may have put a blueprint as to how to beat Central on the table when the Bulldogs took Central down to the wire in the 21-14 Bobcat win last week. That game was the closest Central has had all year. The extra week of preparation along with the blueprint could lead to a Tascosa win.

3. And its up against the wall Rebel mothers: While its not the original song written by Ray Wylie Hubbard, it is true. Tascosa has their backs against the wall, currently sitting in fifth in District 2-6A and badly needing a win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Tascosa will need some help from Odessa High against Midland High in order to make it to the playoffs, but a win is the first step. When a team is backed against a wall, they can do some incredible things.

4. Tascosa's pass defense: Tascosa has been tremendous against the pass this season. Passing is where the Bobcats thrive, especially after the loss of Austin Barron.

The Rebels are allowing an average of 111.8 yards per game passing, one of the lowest averages this season in District 2. If Tascosa can neutralize Central's pass game, Central will have to get the ground game going or else it could be a sad night at San Angelo Stadium.

5. Wacky things happen in week 11: While the full moon was out last week, week 11 in the football season means anything can happen, including upsets.

Will Central be knocked off by Tascosa in week 11? Who knows. Tascosa will be another big test for Central heading in to the playoffs next week.