Bloomington South Panthers (5-3) at Indianapolis Bishop Chatard Trojans (7-1)
When: Friday, Oct. 18, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Bishop Chatard High School, Indianapolis, Ind.
Last Meeting: 7-37 (L) 2018
After an expected dominant senior night performance over Edgewood, the Panthers will close the regular season out with 3A powerhouse Bishop Chatard.
Offense: Even with a subpar passing game against Edgewood, South’s offense had no trouble putting points on the board thanks to the three-headed monster of Maveric Thiery, Re’Chaun Bledsoe, and Aaron Chestnut. That trio accounted for 295 yards rushing on a whopping 9.5 yards per carry. However, the running game can’t do all of the work on Friday, as Chatard has only allowed 7.5 points per game over their last four contests. This will be a big challenge for South, due to the sluggish passing game being near non-existent of late. However, not all of the passing struggles can be put on junior gunslinger D.J. Bull, as much of the issues have stemmed from dropped passes. Chatard’s 3-4 defense is extremely effective against the pass, allowing under 100 yards per game in 2018. The unit is incredibly experienced both up front and in the secondary.
Defense: The Panther defense continued to dominate on Friday, not allowing an Edgewood score until the JV defense was playing in garbage time. Friday’s game also saw former starting quarterback Mason David play safety. David recorded an interception and was apart of a defensive unit that completely eliminated the Edgewood passing game. Offensively for Bishop Chatard, senior Kyle Cheek is the man under center for the Trojans, with all-state running back Daylen Taylor slotted as the feature running back. Taylor has been incredibly efficient this season, rushing for over 1000 yards on 8.8 yards per carry to go along with 14 touchdowns. The biggest weapon on the perimeter is all-state wideout Andrew Sowinski, who has an absurd 17 touchdowns in eight games this season. The offensive line is also very experienced, anchored by senior all-state tackle Joe Solomon. The matchup between Chatard’s offense and South’s defense should be an interesting one, as both units have been some of the best in the state.
Overview: If South can even stay competitive in this game, it’s a good sign that they can make a run in the IHSAA tournament. South will have next week off and will face Evansville North at home for their first sectional matchup. Prediction: BHSS-6 BC-21
Keys to the game:
- Offense has to find a rhythm
- No missed field goals/PAT’s
- Establish a pass rush
