For PCS, the transition from their record-breaking 2016 season to now has been seamless. Much like last year, the Bobcats are pounding the rock and dominating the opposition. Three games into the 2017 season, head coach Joey Hawkins could not be happier with his Bobcats, who are 3-0 and looking for more.
“We’ve been really proud of them,” Hawkins said. “The thing about our schedule is we get a pretty rough opponent each week. Then the last five are conference games, so you’re just trying to build each week. Pray you stay healthy and keep building to when you go against these big caliber teams, you’re ready.”
In three games thus far, Hawkins’ Bobcats have outscored West Marion, Columbia Academy and Adams County Christian a combined 118-45. PCS handed all three their first loss of the season.
“Every opponent we’ve played has had some great weapons and done some good things on us,” Hawkins added.
The key to PCS’ success has no doubt been its running game. Sheldon James has led the way there with 564 rushing yards and five touchdowns. The senior, who spent last season backing up Isaiah Woullard, got his opportunity and ran with it. Asked about his stellar play, Hawkins grinned from ear to ear.
“I’m so proud of him,” Hawkins said. “He’s made himself a player and worked so hard. I think he’s averaging 189 yards a game. Who would have thought that? He’s running inside with some pop, and he can break it out. Sheldon has been great for us.”
As a whole, Hawkins says the Bobcats have 4-5 players they feel comfortable handing the ball off to. Alden Rhian, Eric Robinson, Tyson Keys and quarterback Brandon Thornton highlight that group.
“Isaiah was a centerpiece, so you knew where the ball was going for four years, basically,” Hawkins said. “Now you don’t know where it’s going. That works to our advantage, I think.”
And Hawkins expects even more players will step up in the coming weeks, which could be a scary proposition for teams remaining on their schedule.
“We’ve still got some guys that really have to focus in and make more plays for us,” Hawkins said. “But overall, we’re about as good as we can be right now. We’re trying to turn over every rock and make sure anybody that can make a play or get in the game, we want to give them that opportunity each week.”
Hawkins and the Bobcats will look to improve to 4-0 this Friday night at Simpson Academy (1-2).
