By MARIO AGUIRRE | STAFF WRITER
Roma coach Max Habecker Jr. talks to his players about seizing opportunities. Not only those that present itself throughout the course of the game, but creating chances to make game-changing plays.
Last week, it was Manuel Garcia, Gerardo Gonzalez and Francisco Villanueva who came with big interceptions during a 16-3 win over Laredo Cigarroa.
Villanueva, a first-year varsity player along with Garcia, had arguably the biggest pick with three minutes left in the opening half. Heaving the ball from midfield to about the 10-yard line, Laredo Cigarroa was intercepted by Villanueva, setting up a scoring drive that chewed up two minutes off the clock as Roma took a 14-3 edge.
“We all see interceptions that get dropped all the time, and you say, ‘Man, if they had the interception, it would’ve changed the game.’ But these guys seized it,” Habecker said. “It has to do with the pressure that we’re putting on. It’s not just one thing.
“We’re putting pressure on the QB and forcing them to make throws, not-so-comfortable throws. We try to be ball hawks.”
Through two games, Habecker has been impressed with his team’s defense, particularly in “gang tackling.” That helped the Gladiators force Laredo Cigarroa to attempt a field goal on its first drive and gain more favorable field position throughout.
The emphasis in team defense has helped Roma allowed a total of only 10 points going into Week 3.
“If you’re hustling to the ball and force a fumble and recover it, it’s not luck. You worked to recover it,” Habecker said. “If you’re running as fast as you can and you get a tip, it’s not a lucky play. It’s you forcing the issue and you create an opportunity for yourself.”
GETTING CLOSE
If not for a couple muffed punts and snaps, Valley View’s Carlos Saenz believes his team would be 2-0 right now, not 0-2.
“No doubt in my mind,” the first-year coach said.
The Tigers lost 11-6 to PSJA Southwest in their opener before dropping a 20-17 decision to Zapata last week in a game they led through three quarters.
The miscues highlighted some of the inexperience, particularly on the offensive line, as well as players acclimating to new roles. Jorge Aguilar, for one, is still finding his way at QB, after playing middle linebacker last season. And Manny Lozano, previously a guard, is growing more familiar to the center position.
On a couple of instances, Lozano’s snaps were thrown too hard, either missing Aguilar or putting him in position to scramble. Saenz said the team has made adjustments to lessen the probability of such plays and limit the seven turnovers it has accumulated through two games.
“They’re busting their butts, and their attitude’s tremendous,” Saenz said. “The kids are still hungry and they’re working real hard. They want to learn the offense inside and out.”
MIXING IT UP
Sharyland Pioneer has used between seven and eight ball carriers in each of its first two games, as well as seven to nine receivers. During a 32-6 win over Brownsville Pace in Week 2, the Diamondbacks went with three quarterbacks.
Part of that stems from the competition and depth at certain positions, particularly wide receiver. But coach Jason Wheeler said part of it, too, is to evaluate players, in case injuries occur down the line.
By rotating players, the Diamondbacks have been able to play at a quicker pace, allowing it win each of its first two games comfortably.
“It keeps us fresher, and it’s worked out pretty good,” Wheeler said.