South Putnam looks to take another step to Lucas Oil

After coming up just short a season ago of the ultimate goal of playing for a Class A state title, the mission has been simple for South Putnam -- Lucas Oil or Bust. 

While there have been two losses during the regular season, veteran coach Chuck Sorrell knows it is simply now that matters for his team, which has been playing "complete football" as of late.

"I really like how complete we are playing. The offense is balanced. The defense is flying around, and we are scoring on special teams," Sorrell told The Putnam County Post. 

That could prove to be disastrous for opponents, if the Eagles can continue soaring in the playoffs. Last week, South Putnam opened the Class A postseason with a resounding 68-14 win over Attica. Once again, South Putnam got a solid game out of first year quarterback Drew Cline, who posted an unblemished record this season against county opponents. On the season, Cline has thrown for 1,668 yards and 20 touchdowns and has added 356 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. 

"Drew has taken the reins of quarterback, and we have not missed a beat. We have more passing yards than last season at this point, and he has led our offense to average 480 yards per game. He does not look as dynamic as Wyatt Mullen did a year ago because we don't ask him to run as much because Ty Benton and Brier Cook are so good, but when we get close to the goal line, the quarterback run game is always available," Sorrell acknowledged. 

This week, the Eagles are preparing for Fountain Central (6-4) and Hall of Fame coach Herb King. The game gives the Eagles another chance to further the season goal of advancing to Lucas Oil Stadium Thanksgiving weekend. 

"We have worked since June to win tournament games. Our players know how to win and know what it takes to win. Getting to play multiple games in October and November helps the program continue to grow to what we feel is one of the best small school football programs in the state," Sorrell said. 

The Mustangs opened the season 0-3 and defeated Parke Heritage, 47-6. The last four weeks, Fountain Central has allowed six or less points. Sorrell knows his team will be in for a battle on the road. 

"Fountain Central has a ton of history in football and is not a team to take lightly. Obviously, they have a hall of fame coach who knows how to win big games and his team will be well coached and prepared for Friday night's game. They look to have a good offensive line and a really good quarterback, who can make plays in the pass and run games. We must first contain their quarterback to have a chance to win Friday night," Sorrell said.