By ANDREW CRUM, Staff Writer
After two straight District 32-5A victories, Pace is feeling good about its situation in the standings.
The Vikings are finally seeing some of their hard work pay off and are eager for the chance to make a possible push toward a postseason berth.
“(Just) knowing that we have the opportunity to win,” Pace coach William Deen said. “Understanding we are a capable team and that’s most important. Confident is a hard word to use, but we have the ability (to win).”
The Vikings (3-5, 2-3) are coming off back-to-back victories over Porter and Donna North. Pace has been consistent on both sides of the ball during the two wins. The offense has averaged 294 yards and scored nearly 33 points per game and the defense has allowed 198 yards and 14 points per game in that span.
The joys of winning have spilled over onto the practice field for Pace.
“When you begin to have a little success, it increases the enthusiasm,” Deen said. “Practices become a lot different, more intense. You’re preparing better each week.”
But the Vikings know they face a tough, experienced Yellowjackets squad this week.
“(Edcouch-Elsa) has a great tradition in football. They know how to win,” Deensaid. “They’ve been in these situations before. They’re looking to be successful and get into the playoffs. That’s what they do.”
Edcouch-Elsa (5-3, 4-1) has the top offense in the district. The Vikings are last in defense in the district.
“Defensively, we have to keep up with the quarterback, (he’s) playing well. They’re athletic on offense and can move the ball well,” Deen said. “It that makes it tough, because you can’t just concentrate on one player.”
Deen knows the defense will have to give the Vikings more opportunities, but the offense has to take advantage of those possessions.
“We have to continue to eliminate negative plays,” he said. “Create first-down situations for ourselves and second and short situations. We need to come up with big plays.”
One thing that has helped Pace in recent weeks is the play from its quarterbacks. Alex Cisneros began as starter, but recently Arturo Vilano has been placed in the starting role. Last week, Vilano went down with a hip injury, and Cisneros helped the Vikings to pull away.
Deen wasn’t sure whom would get the nod against the Yellowjackets . He wouldn’t decide until game time.
No matter who is under center, Pace will look to continue its consistency, especially on offense.
“We need to continue the balance on offense to keep them guessing, but I still believe we have to establish the run,” Deen said. “Somehow, some way.That’s going to be very important to our offense.”
Edcouch-Elsa coach Joe Marichalar was unable to be reached for comment.
Andrew Crum covers sports for The Brownsville Herald. You can reach him at (956) 982-6629 or via email at [email protected]. On Twitter, he’s @ andrewmcrum .