Bravehearts: CdM defensive line

Barry Faulkner

With the possible exception of Shaquille O’Neal, few realize the

sacrifice defensive tackles endure when they willingly submit to a

double-team.

Corona del Mar High football coach Dick Freeman, however, is glaringly

aware of the lack of logic such a proposition suggests.

“Last week (in preparation for a veer option offense used by Pacific

Coast League-opening opponent Estancia) we told our defensive tackles

that their job was to make sure two people blocked them,� said Freeman,

also the Sea Kings’ defensive coordinator. “If only one guy blocked them,

we told them they would be messing up. I think that made them question

the incentive of our scheme.�

Dismissing their reluctance, however, senior Steve Shipman and junior

Jayson Skalla accepted their double dose of punishment, for the good of

the team.

Defensive ends Joseph Carr and Andy Lujan also embraced their

responsibilities of crashing inside to try to disrupt the dive exchange

between the Eagles’ quarterback and running back.

“They all did a good job,� Freeman said of the front four that helped

limit the Eagles to 187 yards of offense, 124 on the ground.

Skalla, a 5-foot-10, 215-pound junior, has been the most consistent

performer, while Shipman, a 6-3, 220-pound senior, has provided a veteran

presence.

Carr, a 5-11, 185-pound junior, and Lujan, a 6-1, 220-pound sophomore,

have made steady progress after being pressed into service by a series of

injuries to others.

“Skalla and Carr are really quick and they really get off the ball,�

Freeman said.

“Lujan is very coachable and a real technician and Shipman is our big

guy up front.�

Freeman said Carr is nicknamed “the mole,� because of his poor

eyesight. “Before he got his contacts, he couldn’t see fire at night,�

Freeman quipped.

Lujan has had to overcome a lack of previous football experience, but

Freeman said he is very good at following instructions.

“You show him a technique and he’ll do it,� Freeman said.

Shipman, also a starter on the offensive line, would prefer to play

end. But because of a lack of size, Freeman has asked him to play inside,

where he provides consistent muscle.

Skalla, who started some as a sophomore, is one of the team’s most

improved players, Freeman said.

“For a short guy, (Skalla) is very strong and he’s getting better at

using his hands,� Freeman said.

Freeman said improved aggressiveness has also made the foursome a more

imposing front wall.

“One area they have all really improved on is battling people,�

Freeman said. “And, as they improve, they’re becoming much more

confident.�