Looking for a fan's Brother Rice Scouting Report

[penlight]

This is a big home game for the Hilltoppers as they have been on the road for 4 straight weeks.
I envision a large home crowd and the game was slated to be the Weigel TV game on Channel 26.

• Now 6 games into his tenure, what noticeable changes has the new Head Coach brought to Rice?
• What has remained the same?
• Their offense is doing/featuring what?
• Their base defense aligns how?

An honest assessment is all that I am seeking.
Rice fans, I-80 is an absolute mess with ridiculously long weekend delays because of the construction through Central Joliet.
I-55, or Route 6, Route 30 or Route 7 going through town might be better choices --- let Waze or Google be your guide.
Please accept in advance my personal apology for our overly enthusiastic announcer --- long time straight-and-to-the-point announcer Larry Grant, who gave up the Microphone about 7-8 years ago, passed away this past year and in the years that followed tried to mentor his replacement.

 

[feeto]

I'll tell you 1 thing ...... Rice better shore up their O-line. MC only rushed 3 the entire final possession, and got to the QB on literally every play. Other than that , Rice has a good team. Better than their record shows.

 

[McCaravan]

This is going to be a great game. With Marist week 9, this really is a must win for BR if they want to secure a playoff bid. Really depends on who plays QB. #16 (Brown) can run and scramble which helped with a so-so O-line but the touch on his passes were also so-so. #17 (Hartz) has a much better arm but had limited mobility. Brown left the game though with a shoulder injury and didn’t return, so you might be getting Hartz.

Their Oline as stated was so-so, but better then advertised earlier this year. MC got through a lot but Brown was able to scramble out of it, at the end with Hartz I believe exhaustion set in for the big guys. MC Dline I would rank tops with anyone in the State. BRs run game from their RBs was a non factor. They use 2, a scat back and a runner but neither had much success. In fairness no RB has had much success vs MC defense and they have seen some great ones. JCA big Dline should do well.

Their offensive strength is they have a deep arsenal of WRs. #9 (Lyons) seems to be the best of the group, with #3 a close second. #15 was a giant in height but they didn’t go to him as much as I thought for whatever reason....#88 has a lot of speed but his hands weren’t their Friday. Their TE got open and made a couple nice grabs.

Defensively the Pierce Brothers at DL and LB are as advertised with D1 ability. #1 Ivers is solid in his 3rd season in the middle. Weakness was their secondary....Dowling had a bit of an off night and still threw for 320 yards. They didn’t match up well with MC receivers. Unfortunately for JCA your passing game isn’t your strength so not sure if you can take full advantage of this.

While I was confident MC would win going into the game, I knew BR would come out firing at home and they did just that. They came out with Brown at QB over Hartz and MC had to adjust. I expect a real fun game this Friday. Does JCA stream their home games?

 

[penlight]

This is going to be a great game. With Marist week 9, this really is a must win for BR if they want to secure a playoff bid. Really depends on who plays QB. #16 (Brown) can run and scramble which helped with a so-so O-line but the touch on his passes were also so-so. #17 (Hartz) has a much better arm but had limited mobility. Brown left the game though with a shoulder injury and didn’t return, so you might be getting Hartz.

Their Oline as stated was so-so, but better then advertised earlier this year. MC got through a lot but Brown was able to scramble out of it, at the end with Hartz I believe exhaustion set in for the big guys. MC Dline I would rank tops with anyone in the State. BRs run game from their RBs was a non factor. They use 2, a scat back and a runner but neither had much success. In fairness no RB has had much success vs MC defense and they have seen some great ones. JCA big Dline should do well.

Their offensive strength is they have a deep arsenal of WRs. #9 (Lyons) seems to be the best of the group, with #3 a close second. #15 was a giant in height but they didn’t go to him as much as I thought for whatever reason....#88 has a lot of speed but his hands weren’t their Friday. Their TE got open and made a couple nice grabs.

Defensively the Pierce Brothers at DL and LB are as advertised with D1 ability. #1 Ivers is solid in his 3rd season in the middle. Weakness was their secondary....Dowling had a bit of an off night and still threw for 320 yards. They didn’t match up well with MC receivers. Unfortunately for JCA your passing game isn’t your strength so not sure if you can take full advantage of this.

While I was confident MC would win going into the game, I knew BR would come out firing at home and they did just that. They came out with Brown at QB over Hartz and MC had to adjust. I expect a real fun game this Friday. Does JCA stream their home games?

A lot to ponder, just as I had hoped.
Thank you and I owe you one!

 

[3OrangeWhips]

This is a big home game for the Hilltoppers as they have been on the road for 4 straight weeks.
I envision a large home crowd and the game was slated to be the Weigel TV game on Channel 26.

• Now 6 games into his tenure, what noticeable changes has the new Head Coach brought to Rice?
• What has remained the same?
• Their offense is doing/featuring what?
• Their base defense aligns how?

An honest assessment is all that I am seeking.
Rice fans, I-80 is an absolute mess with ridiculously long weekend delays because of the construction through Central Joliet.
I-55, or Route 6, Route 30 or Route 7 going through town might be better choices --- let Waze or Google be your guide.
Please accept in advance my personal apology for our overly enthusiastic announcer --- long time straight-and-to-the-point announcer Larry Grant, who gave up the Microphone about 7-8 years ago, passed away this past year and in the years that followed tried to mentor his replacement.

1/2) Very pleased with what I’ve seen from the new coach both organizationally and schematically. The changes I’ve noticed have been more about the little things than anything drastic. And he doesn’t seem to get too up or too down given the situation which I think is key when coaching 15-18 year olds.

3) Offense - still running a spread offense with the same OC as previous 2 seasons. At times, have rotated 2 QBs (passer/runner) but me thinks if Brown didn’t get hurt vs MC (status unknown) they’d stick with him. He just adds a different dynamic with ability to keep plays alive. Although, Hartz throws a good ball when he has time and has engineered some quick TD drives (3 passing TDs vs LA first team D). However, they don’t appear to be as go-go-go as in the past and will let the play clock wind down frequently to shorten the game when playing against a quality offense. As previously mentioned, their OL is what needs works. Have played 9-10 guys here and I’m not sure have they’ve started the same 5 in consecutive games, yet, due to injury/performance/matchups. I really like their two junior OTs in terms of potential and size but a long ways to go for this unit. Started 4 juniors vs MC.

4) Defense (4-2-5) - as mentioned, the Pierce brothers (DT/LB) obviously standout and LB Ivers is always in the mix. Front 6 as a whole is pretty good. There definitely seems to be a focus in stopping the run but in turn have given up some big passing plays vs SR, Benet, LA, MC. Secondary similar to the OL in terms of rotating a lot of guys and still needing to find the right group of 4/5. I know JCA has ability to hit on some big pass plays with play action/2 minute O but wouldn’t be surprised to see BR go with another player in the box this week. Have to stop the run first if they have any chance this week.

Now…what’s the secret to beating JCA?

 

[penlight]

1/2) Very pleased with what I’ve seen from the new coach both organizationally and schematically. The changes I’ve noticed have been more about the little things than anything drastic. And he doesn’t seem to get too up or too down given the situation which I think is key when coaching 15-18 year olds.

3) Offense - still running a spread offense with the same OC as previous 2 seasons. At times, have rotated 2 QBs (passer/runner) but me thinks if Brown didn’t get hurt vs MC (status unknown) they’d stick with him. He just adds a different dynamic with ability to keep plays alive. Although, Hartz throws a good ball when he has time and has engineered some quick TD drives (3 passing TDs vs LA first team D). However, they don’t appear to be as go-go-go as in the past and will let the play clock wind down frequently to shorten the game when playing against a quality offense. As previously mentioned, their OL is what needs works. Have played 9-10 guys here and I’m not sure have they’ve started the same 5 in consecutive games, yet, due to injury/performance/matchups. I really like their two junior OTs in terms of potential and size but a long ways to go for this unit. Started 4 juniors vs MC.

4) Defense (4-2-5) - as mentioned, the Pierce brothers (DT/LB) obviously standout and LB Ivers is always in the mix. Front 6 as a whole is pretty good. There definitely seems to be a focus in stopping the run but in turn have given up some big passing plays vs SR, Benet, LA, MC. Secondary similar to the OL in terms of rotating a lot of guys and still needing to find the right group of 4/5. I know JCA has ability to hit on some big pass plays with play action/2 minute O but wouldn’t be surprised to see BR go with another player in the box this week. Have to stop the run first if they have any chance this week.

Now…what’s the secret to beating JCA?

Speed on both sides of the ball is what can/will beat them.
OL is seeking its identity but has big bodies.
Still a running team that has developed a formidable passing attack.
Front 4/DL is a strength, LBs have taken some time to develop with a few personnel changes.
DBs cover pretty well but speed has burned them badly.

 

[pjjp]

Speed on both sides of the ball is what can/will beat them.
OL is seeking its identity but has big bodies.
Still a running team that has developed a formidable passing attack.
Front 4/DL is a strength, LBs have taken some time to develop with a few personnel changes.
DBs cover pretty well but speed has burned them badly.

I notice they are still rotating guys in on the O-line. That's unusual for JCA to still be doing that in Week 6. Sounds like Rice is doing the same. Tells me both teams are still searching for the right combination/personnel.

Agree with your assessment about speed giving this JCA team problems on both sides of the ball. On defense, it's been mainly evident in the passing game, but Provi ran all over them as well. The defense struggles to get the big stop to get off the field. Don't see that improving against talented offenses like Rice will present.

 

[McCaravan]

Looks like it’s going to be televised on The U! I saw some commercial briefly, I don’t know if it’s a replay or live.

 

[dweise]

Looks like it’s going to be televised on The U! I saw some commercial briefly, I don’t know if it’s a replay or live.

Looks like live!

 

[penlight]

Rice fans, the big traffic delay on I-80 this weekend is because they have taken Eastbound traffic through Joliet down to one lane.
The flip Eastbound & Westbound each weekend.
Coming to Joliet from the East should be manageable but heading East after the game would be a living hell.
If you choose to come via I-55 consider exiting at Rt. 30 and navigating around the mall to Essington Road to the head South.
The I-80 mess has created a mess on Eastbound Rt. 52/Jefferson St. Impacting the Exit ramps as well as the road itself.

 

[3OrangeWhips]

Rice fans, the big traffic delay on I-80 this weekend is because they have taken Eastbound traffic through Joliet down to one lane.
The flip Eastbound & Westbound each weekend.
Coming to Joliet from the East should be manageable but heading East after the game would be a living hell.
If you choose to come via I-55 consider exiting at Rt. 30 and navigating around the mall to Essington Road to the head South.
The I-80 mess has created a mess on Eastbound Rt. 52/Jefferson St. Impacting the Exit ramps as well as the road itself.

Thank you. Will share. Leaving at noon.

 

[McCaravan]

Rice fans, the big traffic delay on I-80 this weekend is because they have taken Eastbound traffic through Joliet down to one lane.
The flip Eastbound & Westbound each weekend.
Coming to Joliet from the East should be manageable but heading East after the game would be a living hell.
If you choose to come via I-55 consider exiting at Rt. 30 and navigating around the mall to Essington Road to the head South.
The I-80 mess has created a mess on Eastbound Rt. 52/Jefferson St. Impacting the Exit ramps as well as the road itself.

For us that switched to the streaming networks and ditched the cable and can’t access The U, will JCA be streaming this? TIA

 

[McCaravan]

Also, noticed a Van Tassell on the roster....has the next generation of them started? In the 10 year battles of MC and JC in the 90’s there was like 5 of them and they all played a pivotal role each time they beat MC....

 

[Silver Rain]

each time they beat MC

Do you know the overall record?

 

[McCaravan]

Do you know the overall record?

During that 90’s stretch JCA won 91, 92 (playoffs) 93, 94, and 99

MC won 92 (regular season) 95, 96 (reg and State Championship), 97 and 98. Was an outstanding 10 year stretch of very memorable games.

They took a break until 07 with Lynch at the helm as a junior when MC won on that wild last play.

This rivalry needs to be renewed

 

[pjjp]

This rivalry needs to be renewed

Might happen with a crossover matchup in the next two year cycle in the CCL/ESCC.

 

[dweise]

This rivalry needs to be renewed

you ain't kidding

 

[penlight]

Also, noticed a Van Tassell on the roster....has the next generation of them started? In the 10 year battles of MC and JC in the 90’s there was like 5 of them and they all played a pivotal role each time they beat MC....

Yes.
He is Mike’s son.

 

[JCHillmen]

During that 90’s stretch JCA won 91, 92 (playoffs) 93, 94, and 99

MC won 92 (regular season) 95, 96 (reg and State Championship), 97 and 98. Was an outstanding 10 year stretch of very memorable games.

They took a break until 07 with Lynch at the helm as a junior when MC won on that wild last play.

This rivalry needs to be renewed

The break wasn’t from 99 to 07.
In 2000 JC put a 29-20 beat down on MC that was worse than the score indicated. I believe Kolodziej had like three TD receptions. Frank said after the game that they would like to play again in the parking lot.

In 2001 they met at gately week 2 as the two top ranked teams in the state. Hype and coverage was incredible. MC won by two scores in what most considered an upset.

then they played the soldier field games starting in 06. A young, not very good JC team dropped the 06 game something like 13-6.

In 2007, JC lost on the last minute miracle play you mentioned.

2001 and 2007 were good examples of a team losing a game they should have won, but both likely being positive outcomes that catapulted state title runs. Agreed that the series is great and Illinois high school football is better when it is played.

 

[McCaravan]

The break wasn’t from 99 to 07.
In 2000 JC put a 29-20 beat down on MC that was worse than the score indicated. I believe Kolodziej had like three TD receptions. Frank said after the game that they would like to play again in the parking lot.

In 2001 they met at gately week 2 as the two top ranked teams in the state. Hype and coverage was incredible. MC won by two scores in what most considered an upset.

then they played the soldier field games starting in 06. A young, not very good JC team dropped the 06 game something like 13-6.

In 2007, JC lost on the last minute miracle play you mentioned.

2001 and 2007 were good examples of a team losing a game they should have won, but both likely being positive outcomes that catapulted state title runs. Agreed that the series is great and Illinois high school football is better when it is played.

You are correct I spaced out the 00 and 01 games. 2000 JC got out to a big lead, MC clawed back 22-20 and then thought they had the lead on Marty Quinn (now DLS coach) screen and it was called back on an illegal block. JCA then took the lead for good and won 29-20.
01 was certainly an upset with all the talent JCA had back. But MC lost in the second round of the playoffs while JCA won State. MC won the game, but JCA won the season.....they really need to renew this!!

 

[penlight]

During that 90’s stretch JCA won 91, 92 (playoffs) 93, 94, and 99

MC won 92 (regular season) 95, 96 (reg and State Championship), 97 and 98. Was an outstanding 10 year stretch of very memorable games.

They took a break until 07 with Lynch at the helm as a junior when MC won on that wild last play.

This rivalry needs to be renewed

I believe Frank’s teams went 2-4 in Joliet.

 

[lesna]

For us that switched to the streaming networks and ditched the cable and can’t access The U, will JCA be streaming this? TIA

YES, YOUTUBE JOLIET CATHOLIC FOOTBALL

 

[lesna]

For us that switched to the streaming networks and ditched the cable and can’t access The U, will JCA be streaming this? TIA

YES -YOU TUBE JOLIET CATHOLIC FOOTBALL

 

[McCaravan]

I believe Frank’s teams went 2-4 in Joliet.

The 1993 and 1994 games were wild...especially 1994

 

[CCHS-Fan]

2007 is the best JCA team I’ve seen ‘live’ (since 1983 for me).

Crazy, crazy physical.

If you were to get a ‘W’ against that team, week (1) was ‘it’ IMO.

Carmel Catholic held its own against a very good 7A Lake Zurich team that same season (‘07) in the Semi’s.
LZ beat WWS and almost held them scoreless in the 7A Finals. The same WWS team that beat the 8A champs (Naperville North) in week (9).

Carmel Catholic shut-out the two headed monster of Elliot Brown and Cordero Gaston (De La Salle) in the ‘07 Qtr’s 16-0, @ DLS.
That same DLS team hung 35 on MC (‘07), losing 38-35.

And Carmel Catholic got absolutely DESTROYED by JCA in 2007!

 

[Silver Rain]

when MC won on that wild last play.

In 2007, JC lost on the last minute miracle play you mentioned.

 

[JCHillmen]

2007 is the best JCA team I’ve seen ‘live’ (since 1983 for me).

Crazy, crazy physical.

If you were to get a ‘W’ against that team, week (1) was ‘it’ IMO.

Carmel Catholic held its own against a very good 7A Lake Zurich team that same season (‘07) in the Semi’s.
LZ beat WWS and almost held them scoreless in the 7A Finals. The same WWS team that beat the 8A champs (Naperville North) in week (9).

Carmel Catholic shut-out the two headed monster of Elliot Brown and Cordero Gaston (De La Salle) in the ‘07 Qtr’s 16-0, @ DLS.
That same DLS team hung 35 on MC (‘07), losing 38-35.

And Carmel Catholic got absolutely DESTROYED by JCA in 2007!

You make some good points. I remember that Carmel game thinking it was going to be competitive and it was over before it started.

it was fun to watch that group go from 6-4 in 2006 as mostly juniors to dominant by the end of their senior year in 2007. It was perhaps the best group they’ve had and I agree, that week 1 team was nowhere near as good as the version that entered the playoffs 9 weeks later.

2018 was similar. Not as dominant a group overall obviously but fun to watch an offensive line struggle initially and eventually get it clicking and operating as the best group in the entire state by week 14.

 

[3OrangeWhips]

Brown in street clothes with a sling.