High-flying offense lead to ’07 playoff berth

John Henderson

It’s common for sports teams to forget past seasons and think about the current year, but sometimes it might be better to think back on previous seasons.

A coach can look back on stats from games and determine what needs to be worked on most during the offseason, or find new recruits for weak positions in the lineup. In order to know where you are going, you must know where you have been.

Last year the Ichabods finished second in the MIAA (8-4) and made the playoffs. However, they lost by one point in the first round to West Texas A&M. The Bods had a 4-2 home record as well as a 4-2 away record.

Washburn outscored their opponents 390 to 289 (32.5 to 24.1 points per game). This was a large part of Brandon Walker, who scored 80 points on the season. The offense averaged 395 yards per game while the defense held the opposition to 379 yards.

Quarterback Jordan Brill threw for 2376 yards on the season, and in the process, became the career passing yards record holder at WU.

The defense was constantly providing big plays for the Ichabods. As a team, the Bods picked off 23 passes, led by a school record seven interceptions from cornerback Cary Williams. The defense registered 21 sacks, including six by defensive tackle Eric Butler.

Zach Watkins proved to be a beast at middle linebacker, piling up 143 tackles.

Special teams also made a name for themselves, as Ichabod punter Ben Boswell averaged 40.8 yards a punt and kickers went 6 of 10 on field goals. Kick returners scored 2 touchdowns on the season, including a 100 yarder by Williams.

Based on the statistics of last season, it would be safe to say that Washburn fans can expect another good year of football. Though the Ichabods will be missing the seniors that graduated last year, new players will try to gain leadership roles on the squad.

The Bods have a good string of successful seasons, and what they are doing and teaching is obviously working.

People say if it works, don’t change it so as fans of football, we have come to a conclusion that we can expect a great year for Ichabod football.