Hornets Ready for 'Tough, Physical' Game Against Andover

Football Coach Reed Boltmann said he expects his team's Thursday, Aug. 30, matchup against Andover to be "tough, physical contest."

Coming off of , the Hornets look to keep the momentum going against the Huskies. Junior running back Kevin Placide had a strong showing in the team's first 2012 game, contributing 89 yards off of 27 carries. 

"It was a great way to start the season for Kevin," Boltmann said. "We have a lot of confidence in his play after taking all of those carries and not giving up a single turnover."

The Hornets will also need strong performances from quarterback Mark Handberg and the offensive line, given the size and strength of Andover's players.

"They run a 3-4 defense and are just a big, physical team," Boltmann said. "I'd say we have a little bit more in team speed, with a strong receiving corps and running backs. They're going to give us a balanced attack. It's going to be a close, hard-fought game."

The Huskies are coming off of a 1-6 2011 season, which saw them fall to St. Francis in the section playoffs. Offensively, Boltmann said it's going to fall to the Hornets to get physical with their opponents and open some holes up for their key players. 

"It's really up to us to get our guys some space and let them do some work," he said. "Defensively, we have got to control the line of scrimmage."

Boltmann said he watched Andover scrimmage last week and has been reviewing film of the team. Junior QB Connor Wilkie is a tremendous athlete, Boltmann said, but the Hornets will also have to keep an eye on wide receiver Chris Larson.

"From what I've seen, they like to get the ball to No. 7 (Larson)," he said. "They also have a nice looking tight end they throw to quite a bit."

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at .

Edina's 2012 Football Schedule

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