Commerce’s success in region play will be challenged this week as the Tigers head to Norcross to face the number one team in the 8-A region, and defending state champions Wesleyan.
Wesleyan is undefeated.
Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.
Commerce is 2-0 in region competition and 3-3 overall, while Wesleyan has continued to prove why it was the 2008 state champions.
According to Commerce head coach Steve Savage, the rain predicted for throughout the week could hinder the Tigers’ practice as they prepare for the Wolves.
On Monday, for example, Commerce remained inside for practice as four and a half inches of rain soaked the practice field.
“We are going to do the best we can while practicing indoors,” said Savage adding that “its hard to go full speed on a basketball court.”
While Savage and the Tigers cannot control the weather, they will strive to be perfect on the field, as it may be the only way for Commerce to come away with a win.
“Wesleyan is not ranked number one for nothing,” said Savage. “I find no weaknesses in them. We are going to have to be good at everything we do to stay in the game with them.”
Last season, Commerce fell to the Wesleyan Wolves 33-7.
Friday night, Savage said he was looking to get the ball into several players’ hands including the Tiger’s rushing powerhouse Deon Brock, as well as the capable hands of running back and receiver Jon Cash.
Quarterback Cody Streetman will also play a pivotal role for the Commerce attack, as Savage wants to see the Tigers get the ball into the air more against the Wolves. Streetman scored four touchdowns in last week’s game with Athens Christian as defenders focused on stopping Brock.
“We want to get the ball into everyone’s hands,” said Savage.
Wesleyan will put pressure on the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball, Savage noted.
“We have to play perfectly to be in the game with them,” Savage said, “Wesleyan does a good job of attacking every hole. We just have to play. They don’t have anything we haven’t already seen in earlier games."
“We always have a chance to win, but we are going to have to play well.”
