December 14, 2015, by Terrance Biggs

Missouri Valley Pitbulls

1st year in GDFL (Impact North Division)

Owner/Head Coach: Damon Tuel

Stadium: Lutheran High School, St. Peters, Missouri

Playing Surface: Grass

Team Colors: Orange, Gray, Black

Changing leagues to face stronger competition requires unmitigated resolve. Coach Damon Tuel decided to take a bold leap and compete in the GDFL. It will be intriguing to see how quickly Missouri Valley can acclimate itself to their new league. Historically, franchises struggle mightily making the jump. It is imperative for the coaching staff to preach patience. There will be small hiccups and bumps in the road.

Offensive Scheme: Pistol

Missouri Valley will enter league play, armed with the knowledge of their identity. Running the pistol gives the Pitbulls’ offense flexibility that a traditional shotgun offense offers. Originally developed by the former University of Nevada-Reno Head Coach Chris Ault, the pistol requires the quarterback to take the snap away from center, while the running back is two yards behind him.

Defenses will have to account for the running game as well. By all accounts, Pitbulls’ quarterback Eric Trautman will be equipped to operate this scheme. If Trautman is nimble enough to sell the read option, the Pitbulls could gash unsuspecting defenses. Chris Jones will be the main receiving threat, using his 6’2” frame to high point the ball, and battle cornerbacks.

Defensive Scheme: 4-2-5

Pitbulls

Operating from a 4-2 suggests the coaching staff’s utmost confidence in their down linemen to control the line of scrimmage. Missouri Valley will employ a massive front four, lead by defensive tackle Carl Miller. Miller’s size (6’4”, 300) will become an issue for opposing linemen. He will not be steered by most, or consistently single blocked. Interior offensive linemen will need to pack a lunch, as it may be a long afternoon.

Miller’s trench battles will assist the linebackers greatly, allowing them to roam unencumbered by blockers. Linebackers Ronnell Banks and Travis Smith excel in space and will swarm to the ball. The secondary is commanded by John Robinson. With many GDFL teams implementing the spread offense, having a base nickel defense may be the smart move.

Question To Ponder:

How will the expanded rosters affect the Pitbulls? Smaller leagues carry fewer players. Depth can become an issue.
Rival: St. Louis Bulldogs

Separated by less than 40 miles, the Pitbulls have a rival close enough for their fans to make this road trip. Each team will be recruiting from the same talent pool.