Southern Tier Sports ReportTaking the field where national champions play the Horseheads football team will kick off their season today with a week zero matchup against Watertown.
“Kids are excited,” Horseheads coach Kevin Hillman said. “I think they have had enough hitting each other at practice. Be nice to face another team.”
The Blue Raiders will play the game at Cortland University, on the field where the Red Dragons play. Cortland won the Division III National Title a year ago.
“Having the opportunity to play at a college stadium is always special,” Hillman said. “But, especially the defending national champions. That’s pretty awesome. Kids are really excited about it.”
It’s hard to know exactly what to expect going into a week zero matchup.
“Week zero games are tough, because you really don’t have a fresh look at a team,” Hillman said. “Have to base a lot on the previous season. That said, I know they’ll be ready to play.”
Getting a chance to play someone different is a fun way to begin the year.
“It’s always nice to play a team outside the section and hopefully represent Section 4 football in a positive way,” Hillman said.
WHEN HORSEHEADS HAS THE BALL:
“Get going early,” Hillman said. “Get in a rhythm and spread the ball around. Really would love some balance offensively.”
WHEN WATERTOWN HAS THE BALL:
“Be aggressive,” Hillman said. “Be physical in both the run game and passing game.”
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STSR FILE PHOTO.
