Ulysses (1-5) at Great Bend (4-2)
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Speedy Council sparks Panthers
BY JIM MISUNAS
Great Bend opponents would properly argue that wide receiver Braylon Council is the key ingredient to the Panthers’ offensive recipe.
The Panthers’ offensive sparkplug has gained 384 yards on 27 receptions with three touchdowns.
“Braylon does whatever he can to help his football team,” said Great Bend coach Erin Beck.
No. 8 West seed Great Bend (4-2) rides a 4-game winning streak entering Friday’s Senior Night showdown against Ulysses (1-5).
“Senior year has been awesome,” Council said. Our team has been amazing. We’re a family where we fight for each other. I’m not surprised because we’ve earned everything. We knew we’d be better in the summer when we lifted and put the work in.”
The 5-10, 145-pound Council showcases his speed that forces the defense how they want to defend him.
Defend him one-on-one?
Great Bend quarterback Cayden Scheuerman will take that matchup every time.
“I like when we’re throwing the football,” Council said. “People overlook me because I maybe don’t look like a football player. But I’m quick and my acceleration is really good.”
Council delivers an offensive spark virtually every game with superior quickness and athleticism.
“Running track has helped me a lot for football,” he said. “Coach Erin Beck has helped me get faster and I’ve improved my endurance. My acceleration has gotten better.”
Double team Council?
The Panthers’ standout understands that opens up an opportunity for Great Bend’s other receivers and the running game.
“It feels good when the defense double teams me,” he said. “That opens up our running game.”
The Panthers’ 2022 turning point occurred when they rallied from a 14-0 deficit to beat Dodge City 21-14.
“We were confident that we’d come back and win the game,” he said. “From Game 1, our offense has improved a lot.”
One of Council’s best plays was a 28-yard completion
Council is also a defensive special weapon when he plays during passing situations.
“Braylon has developed into a shutdown corner,” Beck said. “He’s made some big pass breakups.”
Council said. “If they pass more, I play more. Defense is fun because I love covering people. Being a receiver definitely helps me on defense.”
Ulysses averages 276 yards rushing behind a trio of weapons – RB Evan Cortez, 428/4 TDs; QB Justin Delgollado, 498/3 TDs; and RB Lorenzo Gomez, 376/5 TDs. The Tigers have passed 28 times in six games.
“Our best football is ahead of us,” Beck said.
