DesotoExplorer.com / Sophomore runner has breakout game

Archive for Thursday, September 21, 2000

September 21, 2000

Sophomore running back Michael Allen, just like sophomore quarterback Greg Francis, is playing a new position this year.

Allen was a tight end last year, but is now used to running the ball.

"It really wasn't my thing," he said about being a tight end.

Instead, bullying up the gut of opposing defenses has suited him more.

In the season opener, DeSoto passed for 165 yards against Lansing, while Allen had 58 of Desoto's 81 rushing yards.

Against Santa Fe Trail, DeSoto turned to a more run-oriented offense to adjust to the Charger defense. Allen supplied the bulk of the Wildcat offense, running for 85 yards.

Then came Friday's game against Basehor-Linwood. Allen's 70-yard gain against the Bobcats in the game's closing moments helped the sophomore rack up 136 yards.

But don't pat Allen on the back for accumulating 279 yards in three games. He credits the success to his linemen, especially on his big run Friday.

"Any running back could do it," he said. "My blocks were there. They had perfect blocking schemes."

Allen was also excited about what his touchdown run meant for the future of DeSoto's young team.

"We showed that we're stepping up our game," Allen said. "We're improving every play."

The Wildcats will look to get better against Tonganoxie Friday. Look for, Allen and the Wildcat linemen to get some huge running plays along the way.