Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, November 17, 1994 TAG: 9411170072
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV4 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: CHRIS KING SPECIAL TO THE ROANOKE TIMES & WORLD NEWS
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG LENGTH: Medium
Sound strange? It should, but a shortage of bodies made perfecting the timing patterns that are such an integral part of the Indians passing attack difficult, if not impossible.
Instead of having quarterback Greg Shockley working diligently with his favorite targets, Shane Beamer and Jim Reemsnyder, he was at the helm of the scout team simulating the opposing teams offense.
The result of adding the junior varsity squad? Shockley left the scout team and dedicated much of his practice time to fine tuning the attack, with a New River District title and berth into the Region IV playoffs as a reward.
``It takes a lot of time to have a good passing attack,'' said Blacksburg coach Dave Crist. ``We use a lot of timing routes and it just wasn't there [earlier in the season].''
It all came together for the Indians in a 38-7 pasting of Carroll County that clinched the New River District crown. Shockley completed 14 of 17 passes for 238 yards and four touchdown passes, while Beamer reeled in five catches for 120 yards.
``I hope that was the beginning of what these young guys are capable of not just a one time thing,'' said Crist.
Unfortunately for the Indians their season has been marked by wildly, inconsistent play. This past week was no different. Coming off the district-clinching win the Indians committed five turnovers in a 32-15 loss to Tazewell. With the defeat Blacksburg ended the regular season with a record of 4-6.
``We are aware of the fact that our region is not as strong as others,'' said Beamer. ``There are probably better teams across the state that will not make the playoffs.''
Despite Beamer's statement don't expect the Indians to have any misgivings about accepting an invitation into the playoffs. Last season Blacksburg finished the regular season at 5-5, but managed to advance to the state semifinals before being eliminated by eventual champion Rustburg. The Indians are hoping to fashion a similar story this season.
``I think as a team we can do it,'' said Shockley.``We have played such a tough schedule and not many people have played in a game that big.''
After closing last season with a flourish Blacksburg came into this season burdened with very high expectations. Things did not go as many had hoped for the Indians early on.
``Everybody thought we were going to kill people,'' said Reemsnyder.``I can't lie we were thinking 'when is something going to go right.' The first couple of games everything went against us and we didn't play very well either.''
``The first part of the year I was making a lot of bad passes and forcing things,'' said Shockley.``I wasn't giving these guys a chance.''
If the Indians are to advance deep into the state playoffs this season they will have to avoid the mistakes that have dogged them.
``We haven't capitalized and scored when we have had the chance,'' said Reemsnyder. ``We have had a few turnovers and have struggled to score at times when we have been inside the 20.''
``During the regular season you can get by with that,'' said Beamer. ``But when you get in the playoffs the competition gets tougher and you have to take advantage of your opportunities.'' With extra players to help out in practice and Shockley, Beamer and Reemsnyder staying after practice three days a week to fine tune the attack, the trio is hoping to be peaking at the right time.
``We are disappointed that our record wasn't better than it was,'' said Reemsnyder. ``But we have won the games we have had to win.''
Starting this weekend they will have to win every game to prolong their season.
by CNB