GRIFFIN — The Griffin Bears will face one of their biggest challenges Friday night as they take on the Jonesboro Cardinals. Head coach Bernard Goodrum said he knows the importance of the game.
“This is the fun part. These are the games and moments you dream about playing in,” Goodrum said. “This is why you work out, wake up early, stay late and dedicate your time to have the opportunity to compete on a big stage. We’re not taking this opportunity for granted.”
Throughout the season, the team has remained focused on its goals.
“We have reminded the guys of our expectations. People outside of our building and circle of influence can’t put pressure on us,” Goodrum said. “We had one goal to start the season: to be the most improved team in our region, classification and the state. Consistency comes from preparation.
“Our coaching staff does a great job of putting together game plans, and our players buy in and execute them effectively. We focus on doing the little things right — effort, discipline, and accountability — and that’s been the difference week in and week out.”
The Bears will have a tall order to fulfill, facing several Jonesboro players who could potentially play college football. Both the offense and defense will have their work cut out for them.
“They’re a very talented football team with playmakers all over the field,” Goodrum said. “Offensively, you’ve got guys like Jontavious Wyman, a four-star player committed to Miami, who can change the game in a single play. Defensively, they play fast and physical, relying on another four-star Miami commit, Cortez Redding. We know we’ll have to match their intensity and play disciplined football from start to finish.”
Goodrum also knows that maintaining composure will be critical for the players in what is expected to be an emotional game.
“That is everything. Games like this can get emotional, but emotions don’t win. Execution does,” he said. “We often discuss controlling what we can control: our focus, energy, and attention to detail. If we take care of those things, the scoreboard will reflect it.”
The Bears have dedicated this week to staying grounded and focused in the face of their next obstacle.
“The players understand what’s on the line, but we can’t let that create pressure. It has to create purpose,” Goodrum said. “Our mindset is simple: win the day in practice, execute on Friday, and everything else will take care of itself.”
The Bears are expecting a massive crowd for Friday’s game following a large turnout last week.
“Griffin has a proud football tradition, and our community shows up every Friday night. The energy they bring fuels our players,” Goodrum said. “We don’t take that support for granted. We want to represent this city with pride every time we step on the field. We expect our fans to travel with us to Tara Stadium on Friday night.”
According to Goodrum, the key to the team’s success lies in their ability to stay true to their identity.
“A successful night is when we play our brand of football, physical, disciplined and together,” he said. “If we give great effort, execute our assignments and stay connected as a team, the result will take care of itself.”