Timberline goes into playoffs wary of Union's large linemen

By Gail Wood | The Olympian • Published November 13, 2008

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LACEY – Timberline football coach Nick Mullen is having to redefine "big" high school offensive linemen as his team goes into tonight's Class 3A playoff game against an undefeated Union team.

Union has a college-size line that averages nearly 260 pounds. One guard weighs 305 pounds.

"They've got one of the biggest offensive lines I've seen in a long time," Mullen said. "We're small up front. But we're quick. We've got to make sure everyone is covering their gaps and doing their jobs."

Timberline will counter Union's size with quickness and a ball-control offense in today's 7 p.m. game at McKenzie Stadium in Vancouver.

"We've got to take good care of the football," Mullen said. "It will come down to who takes care of the ball."

Turnovers have plagued the Blazers. They turned the ball over five times in a 21-0 loss to Capital. In a 7-0 win against North Thurston two weeks ago, Timberline threw five interceptions and fumbled once.

"We've got to hang onto the football," Mullen said. "We've been able to move the ball, but when we've gotten inside the 20 we've had a tendency to turn it over or make a mistake. We've got to keep our focus."

Timberline is 8-2 and has won three straight and is coming off a convincing 30-7 win against Renton.

Union has held opponents to one touchdown or less in four of its past five games and shut out Hudson's Bay 49-0.

Timberline's defense is led by Ronnie Hamlin and Dylan Swanstrom. Hamlin, a two-way starter, has 141 tackles and 10 interceptions. He's caught 51 passes for 1,001 yards.

"Ronnie has had an amazing season," Mullen said. "He plays hard every down."

Swanstrom, a junior middle linebacker, has 109 tackles, three quarterback sacks and two fumble recoveries.

"Dylan is everywhere," Mullen said. "He doesn't let up."

Timberline has given up just seven points — while scoring 65 — in the past 12 quarters in wins against Renton, North Thurston and Yelm.

"Early on, it was our offense that was carrying us," Mullen said. "Now, it's been our defense. Hopefully, we'll get both against Union."