Monday Mailbag: August 26, 2019

SCOTT TRUXELL/independent sports editor

This week’s Monday Mailbag features questions about Van Wert and Crestview football, preseaon predictions, the Green Meadows Conference and Andrew Luck.

Q: After Friday night’s scrimmage at Eggerss, what is your take on Van Wert and Crestview? Name withheld upon request

A: For various reasons, it’s difficult to get a truly accurate take from a scrimmage, especially one that was just two quarters of varsity starters from a Division IV school playing a Division VII school, but here goes:

I thought Van Wert looked explosive, especially on offense. The passing game should have a different look this year with more of a downfield attack. Defensively, the Cougars made some plays and that unit should be solid.

As for Crestview, the option game seemed to work well at times, but the passing game will need improvement. That’s what practice is for.

Yes, the Knights struggled defensively, but with all due respect to the opponents on Crestview’s schedule, I don’t think the team will face a squad with that kind of speed all season.

Crestview is still adjusting from the loss of some great talent to graduation, but I still think the Knights will win their share of games this season.

Q: After the last round of scrimmages, are you changing any of your preseason football predictions? Name withheld upon request

A: No, there’s no reason to. Scrimmages usually aren’t an indicator of how a team is going to do in the regular season and perhaps beyond.

The regular season is upon us and it’s time to enjoy the ride.

Q: Why didn’t you make preseason predictions for the Green Meadows Conference? Name withheld upon request

A: Our main focus is the Western Buckeye League and the Northwest Conference, although we see our fair share of Wayne Trace teams.

Offhand, I’d have to say defending champion Edgerton and runner up Fairview would be the pick for the No. 1 and No. 2 spots again this season.

After that, it could be a real fight for No. 3 and No. 4, with Wayne Trace, Hicksville and Antwerp possibly vying for those spots.

Q: What are your thoughts on Andrew Luck’s sudden retirement? That seemed to come out of nowhere. Rob F. – Van Wert

A: I was stunned and I’m still stunned.

I wrote last week that something didn’t seem quite right with the Colts offering three different reasons why Luck wasn’t practicing, but I didn’t see this coming and I don’t think many others did either.

Given the importance of the quarterback position in the NFL, this is a real blow to the Colts organization because when healthy, Luck was one of the better ones out there.

The job now falls to backup Jacoby Brissett and with all due respect, he’s a capable backup but I’m not so sure he’ll be the long term answer as a starter. Time will tell.

If you have a question for the next Monday Mailbag, email it to sports@thevwindependent.com.