by T. Scott Boatright

It boils down to a simple defensive game plan for Lincoln Preparatory head coach Glen Hall.

“Stop the pass.”

And if the Panthers can do that, Hall feels good heading into tonight’s Division IV Select School game at Ascension Catholic (8-2).

The key will be slowing quarterback Bryce Leonard, who completed 12-of-16 passes for 187 yards in an early finish during last Friday’s 54-12 regular-season finale win over White Castle.

Calvin Delone hauled in five receptions for 98 yards and two touchdowns in that win for the Bulldogs.

“They throw the ball,” said Lincoln Prep coach Glenn Hall. “We know what’s coming. That quarterback is a great athlete. He has some great receivers, too. We can’t allow them to take over with their passing game.”

Coming off a pair of district losses, Hall said that as usual, his team has practiced well this week.

“I don’t get it,” Hall said. “If we played like we practiced, we’d have a winning record. Somehow I’ve just got to convince these guys we can be winners.”

Hall admitted to having lower numbers to play due to fewer players out for practice.

“It is what it is,” Hall said. “Now we know who wants to play.

“Most of our main guys are still here. It’s the playoffs — anything can happen. We have some skills. Now it’s about the fire. The want. The desire. Because with that, you never know what might happen.”

Hall said senior Bralyn Mayfield will get the start behind center.

“We believe he’s ready to break out,” Hall said about Mayfield. “We looked at film and found some things we had quit using but just might be effective. We’re looking at doing whatever it takes to pull off a win. Because if we can do that, anything can happen.”

Hall said his team is set to pull out its full arsenal.

“I want to get Big Buggs (Jamarius Buggs) pounding the rock for first downs,” Hall said. “I want to see Lil’ Buggs (Jamrion Buggs) catching long and touchdown passes. I want to see Brandon Heard and Chauncy Harper doing everything.”

The 23rd-seeded Panthers will play at Ascension Cathiolic (8-2).

“This is it,” Hall said. “Last game for our seniors if we don’t move on. This team has what it takes. It’s about believing.  And if they believe, something special is about to happen.”