Bulldogs and Highlanders Battle in 7-on-7

By Terry Futrell
July 13, 2018

The Wartburg Central Bulldogs and the Scott Highlanders went at each other Thursday evening in a 7-on-7 battle on the Wartburg home field. No one was keeping score and it was supposed to be “touch” football, but someone forgot to tell the players. The touches were anything but gentle as pride and competitiveness took over and players on both teams turned the scrimmage into a fierce battle under the scorching July sun.

The competitive atmosphere served the coaching staffs of both schools well, enabling them to evaluate their passing games and to identify areas of needed improvement. In an environment where running the ball was prohibited and defenders were able to focus only on receivers, coverage was extremely tight, yet both teams proved that they can pass the ball effectively.

Wartburg Coach Kevin Human shared quarterback duties between sophomore Tyler Davis and incoming freshman Samuel McCarty. Both showed effective passing skills. Davis was able to build on his experience from the 2017 season, especially in throwing the long ball. McCarty gave no indication that he was only a freshman – his passes were crisp and on target. Wartburg fans will surely see both throughout the season.

Josh Moore and Caleb McCarty made spectacular catches in the scrimmage. Moore made a leaping one-handed grab (shown above) that showed the veteran is ready to contribute to Bulldog success this season. McCarty made two acrobatic catches, one with a defender all over him, that were nothing short of amazing. (See the “Miraculous Catch” posting on the Faith Sports Photography Facebook page for photos of McCarty’s most difficult catch) Bailey Craigo, Mason Laymance, and Saylor Jones each made tough catches under pressure from the Highlanders. Wartburg’s capable group of receivers are sure to open up defenses for the Bulldogs in the upcoming season.

With five weeks left before the Bulldogs home opener with arch rival Coalfield, the Wartburg coaches have plenty of time to polish off any rough edges and have the Bulldogs ready to do battle with the Yellow Jackets on August 17.