While some may be doubting how far the Amanda-Clearcreek Aces can get in the postseason without their bruising tailback Garren Dilley, a nearly 1,500-yard workhorse lost to a broken leg for the playoffs during last week's game against Bloom-Carroll, think again. The bulldozing running of Dilley has only been part of the story for the Aces, which turned around from a 3-7 mark last season to 10-0, a Mid-State League Buckeye title and a No. 1 seed in Division IV, Region 15.
Just as important for Amanda-Clearcreek has been its defense, which has allowed around three points per game all season and has pitched five shutouts.
The Aces also aren't without weapons on offense as Tyler Gierhart, who rushed for over 600 yards, will go from the changeup back to a more primary roll. Amanda-Clearcreek could also go to the air more with quarterback Jared Bennett hitting Max Corcoran, who tied a school record with three touchdown receptions three weeks ago against Teays Valley, or to Tyler Genders.
Look for the Aces to still have a good chance to advance to the regional title game against possibly Ironton, setting up a matchup of two of the best small division programs in the southern half of the state.
';