SUBMITTED BY THE BRIDGEPORT HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL COACHING STAFF

 

The winner of Bridgeport High School’s “Scout Team Player of the Week” for his effort in the week leading up to last week’s high school football game with Lincoln is sophomore J.R. Coburn. Coburn played his part in helping the Indians pick up a regular-season closing win.

 

Last Friday, the Tribe toppled the Cougars by a 56-21 score against a team that was in the Class AA playoff hunt prior to the setback. Coburn, who comes in at 6’1 and 225 pounds, was chosen by the BHS coaching staff for the weekly honor. The honor is in its first year.

 

“J.R. is playing football for the first time ever and has progressed tremendously every week. He has went from a guy who couldn’t get on the field, even on scout team, to a guy who is challenging our varsity guys daily,” said BHS Assistant Coach and Defensive Coordinator Adam King.

 

Coburn worked on the scout team at linebacker on defense and on the line on the offensive side of the ball leading up to the game with Lincoln. The effort proved critical as the Indians were able to topple the Cougars in game where the lead was more than 35 points heading into the fourth period, which led to a continuously running clock.

 

The effort by Coburn and the rest of the scout team appeared to have paid dividends on both sides of the ball. Jake Bowen once again surpassed 200 yards rushing and John Merica went over 100 yards rushing behind a line that opened up gaping holes and the BHS defense held a potent LHS offense led by Kobie Carpenter in check for much of the contest.

 

“J.R. has great strength and really wants to be a good player. He has a bright future,” said King.

 

The BHS coaching staff initiated the program this year to recognize those who help prepare the varsity each week. The winner is chosen based on a vote of the coaches.

 

Editor's Note:Photo submitted by the Bridgeport High School football coaching staff.