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Blue Devils happy to be back in playoffs

After missing out on the playoffs in 2016 at 7-3, the Western Reserve Blue Devils (8-2) are happy to be back.

“We have been in the playoffs quite a lot and, not to be braggadocious, we are going into the game with the idea that we can win,” Western Reserve coach Andrew Hake said. “We have kids that have been there and that’s so important. Not too many coaches love their team the way I love my team.”

The Blue Devils finished fifth in Division IV, Region 21, one place behind their opponent on Friday, 9-1 Creston Norwayne.

This year’s team has been all about great defense as the Blue Devils gave up just 12.5 points per game which included shutouts against Sebring, Lowellville, Waterloo and Jackson-Milton.

“Our defense is what makes everything work. We feed off that especially on offense,” Hake said. “Jason Cochran, my defensive coordinator, has been absolutely sensational. All of my coaches have. The last nine years together have been great and that’s because of my coaching staff.”

One of the players that has pushed Reserve on both sides of the ball has been running back/linebacker Jack Cappabianca.

Cappabianca ran for 530 yards with nine touchdowns on the ground. He also scored three touchdowns as a receiver. He also was the Blue Devils leading tackler with 55 and tied for the team lead with three sacks.

“Jack (Cappabianca) has been one of the greatest players in school history. He’s a really great runner and always gives tremendous effort,” Hake said.

Without a great offensive line, nothing would matter on offense. Coach Hake believes a great offensive line should never go unnoticed.

“Oh man, we need to talk about the bigs,” Hake said. “We have left tackle Gavin Jackson, who’s a sophomore. We then have four seniors with Cody Hladun at left guard, Rob Hivley at center, Dallas Smith at right guard, and Ryan Musch at right tackle. They play so well and I’m proud of how they do it each week.”

Hake also mentioned the importance of his two tight ends, Joey Clegg and Nick Dagnan, in his offense.

After a great offensive line, every offense needs a good quarterback. Dominic Velasquez threw for 1,615 yards with 18 touchdowns to just four interceptions.

“I’ve had two All-Ohio level quarterbacks in the last nine year. Dom is one of the most intelligent, unique QB’s I’ve had. He’s a lefty that could use a good playoff win to propel his status in the state as a senior,” Hake said.

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