Schuck on a Truck: Central linebackers discuss playoff atmosphere, community support

CAMP POINT, Ill. — The crowd’s presence was undeniable.

No matter if they were on the field or on the sideline, the Camp Point Central football players could hear its overflowing crowd and feel its energy during last Saturday’s Class 1A state quarterfinal victory over Belleville Althoff. The Panthers expect a more boisterous and potentially bigger crowd this Saturday when Greenfield-Northwestern comes to Camp Point for a Class 1A state semifinal showdown.

The enthusiasm coming from the crowd could spark another dominant defensive effort.

The Panthers have allowed just 97 points through 12 games, the fewest among the final four Class 1A teams. The speed and tenacity of the linebackers are a couple of reasons the Panthers have been so good at shutting down running lanes from sideline to sideline.

Three of those linebackers — junior all-stater Elijah Genenbacher and seniors Mason Miller and Darren Rigg — joined Muddy River Sports Editor Matt Schuckman on the tailgate of his pickup to discuss the defensive dominance, the playoff atmosphere and the community support for this episode of “Schuck on a Truck,” brought to you by Shottenkirk Toyota.