West Metro Speed Read: Beware the Pats

I feel the need… the need for a Speed Read.

Putnam City West

There was a lot of rivalry excitement in the West Metro last week, so PC West’s strong effort in defeat to Choctaw was lost in the mix. For the teams on the Patriots’ schedule, don’t ignore these guys. In talking off the record with a couple different coaches who have taken a deeper look at this team than other coaches probably have, both guys said the Pats are much better than last year. Size in the trenches is still an issue, but the talent is there, especially with QB Ray Young, RB Johnny Smith and the receivers.

From what I’ve seen of the Pats in practice this season, Young’s throwing ability is far improved from last year, and the receivers are definitely more comfortable in their routes. I haven’t seen Smith in action a lot, but he’s got good size and speed, and went for 150 yards and a TD last week. I know Putnam City isn’t overlooking Friday’s meeting at PC Stadium.

Mustang

There’s an obvious level of frustration after the 43-28 loss at Yukon last Friday. Now, they’ve got to get ready for Putnam City North, which is also coming off a loss to its rival. The thing Mustang is lacking most right now is experience. Their young players are talented, but they had some mistakes. They’ll get past it, but it’s a question of when. The schedule isn’t exactly easy. After PC North, it’s a pair of long bus trips to Bixby and Lawton, followed by Edmond North, Edmond Santa Fe and Putnam City.

Yukon

Talking to some people at Mustang, the Broncos were as impressed with the Yukon O-line as I was, but they also were impressed by the play the Miller defensive ends, Jake Doyle and Andrew Edwards. Those two, along with others on the defensive front, were making it hard for QB Brandon Taylor find a rhythm in the passing game, and they really came alive in the second half, with four sacks, including a safety.