Bratcher likely to start at QB tonight; Haston injured at practice
Warren County’s football team hopes the success quarterback Jonathan Bratcher had against Beech’s reserves last week will continue tonight against Cookeville.
Coming off the bench in the fourth quarter a week ago, Bratcher led the Pioneers on two scoring drives, and threw a touchdown pass in the game’s final minute.
But tonight, when the Pioneers play host to the Cavaliers at 7:30, Bratcher won’t be coming off the bench. Instead he’ll be under center from the opening snap, since an injury has likely sidelined regular starter Joey Haston.
“We hope (Haston’s injury) is not that serious, but Bratcher will be more than likely the man,” said coach Chris Madewell. “The way (Haston) is limping around, I don’t see him being able to go.”
Haston twisted his knee during individual drills in Wednesday’s practice session, and left the field for much of the day before returning near the end of practice with his left knee wrapped. Haston was scheduled to see a doctor to determine the extent of his injury Thursday.
While Bratcher is a strong, quick athlete, Madewell said his biggest concern is how the junior reacts to his role as the team’s field general.
“He’s got good feet, he’s a good runner,” Madewell said. “He’s one that will get in there and give you everything he’s got, full-speed in everything he does. That’s what I like about him.
“He’s tough, and he’s just got to step up and take charge of the offense, and be a leader. He’s got to be the captain, and that’s something he’s not used to doing, because he doesn’t have that much experience back there.”