Tigers take it to Goodhue

By JEREMY BEHNKE

Journal Sports Writer

SPRINGFIELD -- It's been really no secret why the Springfield Tigers have had a successful 2004 season.

The Tigers have relied on the run-em-over and run-around-em approaches by Bryan Reimers and Andy Moritz, respectively. The duo have combined for 24 touchdowns -- 12 apiece -- and 2,248 yards on the ground.

Reimers leads the attack with 1,235 yards on 179 carries and Moritz busted open for 1,013.

"It's been vital to have in terms of our threat," Springfield coach Paul Dunn said. "The key is what's happening up front. The neat thing about these guys is that when they get those chances, they'll get the yards and score.

"Moritz can run in the middle, but he would rather get in the open and use his speed much more," Dunn said. "Reimers is more of a battering ram. He likes contact."

Dunn says that Reimers' running style is key in that it wears down the opposing defense.

"Our theory is if we hit the linebacker enough, eventually they're going to back down," Dunn said.

The Tigers (10-1) are making their second overall appearance at state -- the last coming in 1997. The Tigers were dealt their only loss of the season -- a 40-20 drubbing by Rushford-Peterson -- which is something they hope to avoid tonight at Goodhue.

"I don't think that's in their minds at all," Dunn said. "There's a lot of excitement in this town. There definitely will be a community presence in Goodhue."

Goodhue (7-4) is looking for its second consecutive title in the Wildcats' fourth appearance at the state tournament. They finished the regular season unranked.

"They're a good football team," Dunn said. "They play in a big conference. Three of their losses came to teams still in the playoffs. But they are the defending champions, and they deserve a lot of respect. It's going to take a good effort to knock them off [tonight]."

Goodhue's strength also lies in its backfield. They feature Brandon Voth, a senior back who has rushed for more than 1,200 yards and has more than 400 yards receiving. He has scored 18 touchdowns.

Calvin Ryan and Josh Budensik make up the other two third's of the three-headed monster. Dunn said that the Wildcats run out of the wishbone offense, and stopping their backs won't be easy.

The Tigers enter the Class A quarterfinals at 7 p.m. tonight in Goodhue. If they win, they resume play at the Metrodome.

Jeremy Behnke can be reached at jbehnke@nujournal.com