Five things I learned - Davis Vipers vs Glacier Knights 4-25-2009

#1. The Davis Vipers did not travel well this week.

In my opinion, this was the biggest factor in the outcome of this game. Every Viper player that made the trip, played their guts out, some playing both side of the ball, and many playing out of their normal positions. Kudos to those that made the trip, and to those who didn't............. well.......you....... missed a great game. Hope you make it to game film to see what I am talking about.



#2. The Glaciers have gotten bad press on the forum.

To be honest, it is my opinion if the Vipers had travelled well (brought more than half the team), the result would have been different big time. I would love to see both teams play at full strength to prove me right. ;) But, having read all the "expert" crystal ball predictions and the smack talk on the RMFL forum, then witnessing the Glaciers in action, I believe they have either gotten bad press, OR, they have added valuable players since the first of the season and have greatly improved. Discount them on the forum all you want, I think they will finish upper middle of the AA field if they can travel the long distance well.

#3. The Viper defense (even half strength) deserves respect.
Full disclosure, my BOSS plays defense. Outside looking in as an observer, even half strength the Viper defense is strong and then some. Full strength the Vipers are impressive, I was impressed (at half strength) with the way they held the Knights to a very close game.

#4. The Viper Offense...
The Davis Vipers have struggled to form a well rounded offense from the beginning...Historically, the Vipers have had a powerful ground game, and continue that tradition to this day (Rashad, Mike, Nate, Chase, to name a few) In the air....it has been hit and miss, and continues to be so. Giving the Glacier coaching staff, or the Glacier defense it's due... they adjusted to and stopped the ground game before the end of the first half.



#5. Visiting teams should insist on 2 impartial / imported officials

Let me preface this by pointing out that I DO NOT believe the Vipers lost because of the refs, the Vipers lost by bringing half their team. Having stated that, I have an honest observation regarding officiating teams.

I mentioned in my first post on this blog, I have children that play in little league and have been involved with Utah Semi Pro football since 2001, flag football forever etc. Being on the sidelines as I am, I hear and witness things one would not experince unless they are a player, official, coach, or ME.

From my observations/experiences, the rural/micro market areas (not just glacier territory) that have officials that live and work in that secluded area...are partial or bias....whether they intend to be or if it is just ingrained.

I think I can get my brain around this mindset... Much like most parents are partial to their own kids, and think other people's kids are little brats ! These refs are around the same players from little league through college, or the RMFL.

Observing games in secluded areas over the years...this is typically the rule not the exception.
Refs are after all, just human.

Most of these teams are plenty good enough without extra assistance.

Privately I wish we lived in, played in a micro market for a minute...but then ...I would tire of it... kind of like the guard/player in "The Longest Yard" (Adam Sandler genre) just play and call a good and FAIR game!!

JMO
NOT THE OFFICIAL OPINION OF THE DAVIS VIPERS....just mine..