Clovers look to end the regular season strong

While Cloverdale has assured itself its second winning season in as many seasons, head football coach Tyler Lotz wants more for his team.

The veteran coach looks back and sees disappointing outings against county rival North Putnam and Southwest Conference foe North Davies as missed opportunities. 

"We look back and I wish we had a few of those games back, obviously. We knew that we had a big senior class and expected a lot from them. They have done a good job," Lotz told The Putnam County Post. 

The senior class has been a key part of Cloverdale's turnaround, according to Lotz. 

"They are going to graduate as the winningest group of Cloverdale football history. It is something to be proud of, and that is something they have worked for. We have multiple games ahead of us, but they are looking to be the first Cloverdale class to go to three sectional championship games in a row, and they are hoping the third time is a charm. They have done a good job, trailblazed new ways for the young kids that look up to them and have changed the culture here at Cloverdale," Lotz said. 

A week ago, Cloverdale knocked off West Vigo, 49-0, as quarterback Marcus Boyd ran for three touchdowns, caught a touchdown pass and threw for two more. 

"He did it all for us. He has done a good job just being coachable and trying to get better each week. He is one of those kids that never played quarterback before, and it has been nice to have a quarterback who is not afraid to run the ball. Marcus has done a good job of learning and reading things," Lotz said of his signal caller. 

Jumping out to a quick start was paramount for the Clovers, who lost the last time they played at West Vigo. 

"It was huge. I reminded the guys before the game we had been here before, were a huge favorite and it didn't go our way. I told them I didn't want it close, and we came out and played well," Lotz said. 

While the six wins are special, Lotz knows the Clovers will face a huge test Friday when they welcome Class 2A top ranked South Putnam to Cloverdale. 

The Eagles are 8-0 and their starting defense has not allowed a point this season. 

"They are good. Big, strong, fast, physical and all the things you want in a football team. It is a big challenge for us," Lotz said of South Putnam. 

Lotz said the week's preparation has been vital to his team. 

"Our kids are no stranger to how good that team is. The biggest thing for us is a positive mindset all week. Don't let them beat you before they put the football down. We have to battle that all week," he said.

And, in order to pull off the upset, Lotz said his team must do several things. 

"We have to create takeaways and take care of the football and play almost a perfect football game regarding our effort, attitude and physicality," Lotz said.