By BY BRUCE HIXON – sports editor
A year ago they were novices at what they did. Like most things in life, things are running much more smoothly the second time around for T.R. Miller Tigers assistant coaches Marc Edge and Allen Burgess.
With 16 seasons of coaching to his credit, the last two of which have been spent at T.R. Miller, Edge is hardly a stranger to football. However, last season he ventured into new territory when he succeeded Alan Baker's 20-year stint as the Tigers defensive coordinator.
Edge said this season simplicity goes back to fundamentals.
Last season the Tigers allowed just under 300 yards a game, a decent but hardly mind-boggling number. T.R. Miller more than offset that with its ability to make turnovers, especially during the postseason when it forced 14 turnovers during four playoff games.
While Edge is benefitting from having a year's experience as defensive coordinator under his belt, Burgess is probably reaping even larger benefits from what he experienced last year.
Last season was Burgess' first season in the coaching ranks, as he handled T.R. Miller's quarterbacks and defensive backs. This season Burgess has changed offensive duties and is handling the Tigers wide receivers.
Burgess, who played quarterback at Opp High School, said there has only been a slight adjustment going from quarterbacks to wide receivers coach.
Burgess said there are three keys for receivers.
Burgess said he is even more comfortable with the defensive backs where he has a year's experience under his belt.
While Edge and Burgess have had to learn their own separate jobs the last two seasons, they have also learned together.
ultimately the defensive decisions are his,” Burgess said.