Tigers look for first trip to state since 1997

By JEREMY BEHNKE

Journal Sports Writer

SPRINGFIELD -- With a mixture of power and speed, the Springfield Tigers have been able to run over and run around defenses all year.

But lost in the shuffle has been the offensive line. Though relatively small on paper compared to other teams, the Tigers O-line has relied on quickness to open holes for its two star backs.

"This is one of the biggest offensive lines I've had," Tigers coach Paul Dunn said. "We're not big compared to the other teams, but we've always been small and fast. It must be something in the water over here."

Dunn said the Tigers have a good mixture on the line that shows three seniors and three juniors with the tight end included. Dunn said the group is always hard working and the hours put in the weight room over the summer are starting to show.

"They're quick to the block and that's a big asset," Dunn said. "They're in great shape and work hard. They play physical.

The time in the weight room in the summer shows how hard they've worked."

The Tigers have also been more aggressive in the air. Because most teams overplay the run, the receivers have had better chances of getting open and quarterback Zack Sturm has used that as a weapon.

"We're converting on the opportunities," Dunn said. "It's not like we're trying to open it up and air it out. Zack's making good decisions. I think he's had two interceptions all year.

The Tigers (9-1) are in the section championship and host Fulda, the No. 4 seed that knocked off top-seeded Adrian. They played in the section championship in 2002 and last appeared in the state tournament in 1997, so the Tigers are hungry to get back again.

Dunn says Fulda is similar to Minneota, the team that eliminated Springfield a year ago, and McLeod West in that both teams have big, powerful offensive lines.

"They're huge -- they list their smallest lineman at 230 and their biggest at 290," Dunn said. "They run the double tight wishbone. It's going to be like the old McLeod West teams with [Tyler Evans] in the backfield. They're just big physical kids."

Jeremy Behnke can be reached at jbehnke@nujournal.com.