The Program: Regina's Week 4 practice

IOWA CITY - It's cliché, very cliché.If there was one of those "trap" games, this could be it.Class 1A top-ranked Iowa City Regina is coming off two straight convincing win over heated rivals. The Regals will celebrate Homecoming next week, which is one of the most exciting events on the high school calendar.But, this week they are setting out for their longest road trip of the season. About a 90-minute bus ride awaits Regina football players, who face Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont. The Rockets are also 3-0 and shouldn't be taken lightly, especially if the Regals want that 46th straight victory.Regina Coach Marv Cook seemed set to make sure the Regals corrected some issues. The players try to fine-tune their play for the Rockets, but this Wednesday session doesn't come without some ire from coaches.Running offensive plays, offensive coordinator Ed Hinkel and offensive line coach Alex Kanellis challenge the players to execute the plays properly. It feeds the demand to be perfect, which is likely why they have been able to keep a perfect record intact.The practice heavily focused on offense. Not a bad idea since starting running back Riley Dixon is sidelined after spraining his ankle in the 41-14 win over West Branch last Friday. Dixon remained positive, saying he could be back by Oct. 11 for a game against Alburnett. That is a non-district game with little at stake, so it's more likely they will give him a little more rest so he can return for the Oct. 11 game against Wilton, which should have district title implications. Dixon was in a walking boot, and even helped during practice, volunteering to simulate snaps to quarterback Drew Cook while working on passing drills.Everyone is confident the offense will play well with the likes of Jake Brinkman, Michael Adam, Nick Phillips and Elliot Halsch getting the majority of the carries.The defense received its time to work on its assignments. One thing that I've taken away is I haven't seen a big let up during practice. It was evident when a defender was unsure of his assignment when working against the scout offense, lining up to run  play.Defensive coordinator motioned for him to be replaced, saying, "You're out. Eddyville will not stop for you to figure out the coverage."Very true, but also demonstrates the need to be at the top of your game. Remember, practice doesn't make perfect. Perfect practice makes perfect.Another interesting moment came when they honored one of the program's supporters. Something they don't every week. They named Cory Bonnet honorary captain for this week's road game. Bonnet helps on the sideline during games and does work on the Regals football field.Bonnet received a team jersey (he has to return it) with the number her wore in high school. Bonnet attended high school in Eddyville, telling the players the field they will play on was the same field he played his final game.Cook closed practice with talk about how the players should prepare their bodies, getting additional rest and hydration this night. He emphasized academics during the speech. He told the players, and repeated it, to make sure they get their homework done, or get up early Thursday to work ahead and get it completed.No talk about wins or win streak, but variables that lead into success.