The Monterey High School Wildcats are firing on all cylinders so far this season. After coming off a crazy preseason that included limited contact in practice and a two-week quarantine, the Wildcats are 2-0, ranked in the top 10 in the state, and averaging almost 50 points per game.
Life is good for the Region 4, Class 1A defending football champions.
“We’ve been blessed so far, but we’ve got a long way to go,” said Monterey coach Scott Hughes. “We’re still inconsistent in a lot of things we’re doing and we’re having some communication issues. We’re still far behind as far as practice time, and I think that inconsistency goes back to the practice time we’ve missed. Right now, we’re practicing in a way to try and just get caught up.”
Hughes and his talented Monterey squad will be back in action Friday when they play host to region foe Pickett County. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
Monterey comes into the game off a 44-8 victory over Red Boiling Springs in the opener and a 50-18 road win over Harriman last week. On the other hand, the Bobcats enter the game with a 1-3 ledger, sporting losses to Oakdale, Gordonsville and Eagleville. Pickett County’s only victory was a 1-0 COVID-19 forfeit from Sunbright.
“Pickett County has some good athletes and their little quarterback (Hunter Vick) is a super athlete. I think he has the capability of scoring from anywhere on the field,” Hughes said. “Their passing game is pretty good. They like to take some deep shots and try to get you in some 50/50 balls. We’re going to have to have our best game on defense.”
Offensively, Hughes hopes his team can keep the pace going against the Bobcats. However, he knows Pickett County boss Ray Reagan will have his defensive unit prepared for a battle.
“We have some guys that can run a little bit all over the field, and we have some length on the perimeter. We’re just looking for the best matchups,” Hughes said. “I have a lot of respect for coach Reagan and I expect he’s going to do what he (always) does on defense, and he does it very well.”
No matter what, Hughes just wants his team to keep focused.
“We’re having to learn how to practice again and that’s probably because of a little immaturity and inexperience,” Hughes explained. “It is not an excuse, but I think the time off really hurt this group.”