Alvin’s new look could be problematic for Dawson
During three quarters last Friday, the Dawson Eagles played fast.
For the last quarter, they were gassed.
What at one point seemed like a comfortable win for Dawson turned into a biting 24-21 win at Strake Jesuit, a win that saw head coach Mike Allison’s team make a no more towards the playoffs.
“Quite honestly, we need to do more conditioning,†Allison said.
“I think our defense was knocked down at the end, and our problems were compounded by good training and execution from Strake Jesuit.
“There was some momentum in the fourth quarter, but we managed to hold on. Strake was just making a few games.
“On one of their touchdowns, they converted three third and long. Their quarterback, receivers and offensive line did a good job of expanding the games. “
Dawson (5-2, 3-1) has no reprieve this week, but at least the Eagles are at home against Alvin (4-3, 2-2).
“Coach (James) Gage did an amazing job at Alvin, and these guys seem to be excited to play,†Allison said.
Dawson vs. Alvin
When: 7 p.m., Friday
Or: Pearland Stadium
Recordings: Alvin 4-3, 2-2; Dawson 5-2, 3-1
“They’re successful, and when you do that, it’ll make for more excitement and harder work.
“Alvin is not gambling by any stretch of the imagination. They definitely have the scheme and the knack to beat you.
“With the options they offer, we will have to be very disciplined in defense.
“We have to make sure that we take care of the missions so that we are successful. “
One thing Dawson needs to rectify is the play of his special teams. The Eagles missed three point attempts after in various ways in the win over the Crusaders.
Dawson’s 24 points were scored in unconventional ways, including two Carter Brown baskets, one of which was from 49 yards.
“I don’t know if people understand how difficult it is,†Allison said of the PAT process.
“Fortunately, it worked well on the field goal, but it’s definitely something we need to fix.”
Dawson quarterback Colin Johnson had an exceptional game, completing 14 of 17 passes for 236 yards and two touchdowns.
Bryce Burgess ran 19 times for 124 yards and one touchdown while wide receiver Ryan Guillo had six catches for 155 yards and two scores.
“Ryan had a great game to receive and Colin was on the right track,†said Allison. “We took what Strake Jesuit gave us and the offense did a good job.
“For about three-quarters, we did a lot of things well. The kids fought and beat a good team.
“Strake Jesuit’s record doesn’t reflect how good they are.
“They are always well trained, they play hard and their plan is difficult to plan offensively and defensively. “
Allison said several people made huge plays which helped pave the way for victory.
“We have had a few kids who have held multiple positions out of necessity,†said Eagle’s boss.
“They won their chance in practice.
“For us, going on the road and playing well and coming away with the win was a big plus for us. We are still learning every day.
“We’re down to seven games this season, and for many of our kids it was their seventh Friday night game in history.”
Allison was impressed that her team made big plays at important times against some famous teams.
Before the win over Strake Jesuit, Dawson rallied on the road to defeat Alief Taylor.
“So that we fell early on a team as good as Taylor and that we didn’t fall apart… I didn’t see any of our kids fall,†Allison said.
“The children were calm and remained coachable.
“Alief Taylor is very good. They played Shadow Creek hard, they played us hard, and apparently Pearland played hard Friday night.
Eagle’s defense was also a big part of Friday night’s win over the Crusaders.
“Our defense shut them out for three quarters,” Allison said.
“In Strake Jesuit’s first scrum play, they threw a little hitch pass but Gabriel McFarland was on it and he dropped the ball and we had an early turnaround.
“Jaiden Walker also had a big interception in the end zone.”
Aiden King recorded a record nine tackles for Dawson while Max Menendez added seven.
Dawson’s wins over the next two weeks over Alvin and Alief Hastings would clinch a playoff berth, and the Eagles could clinch a share of the District 23-6A crown if Pearland defeats Shadow Creek.
This, however, is too far away for Allison to think about.
“We did a lot well on Friday night,†he said. “But I think as coaches we realize we need to condition these kids better.”