VMI football coach Scott Wachenheim talks with reporters after the Keydets’ 33-30 OT loss to Mercer on Saturday.
On battling back after being down two touchdowns: “This is VMI where we never say die. Each player and coach dedicated the game to a current member of the corps and also a graduate of VMI and we gave it our all. They had two weeks to prepare for us and anytime you’re within two scores with two minutes to play you always have a chance. I said to keep playing and keep battling. I think we made some minor adjustments at halftime that put us in a better position. You can’t completely overhaul your game plan in just a 20-minute halftime.”
On holding Mercer to just two field goals in the second half: “Our defense has played great all year. We had several guys step up and the guys just kept playing and playing. Coach Clark does a great job of preparing the defense every week.”
On special teams play: “I thought the fake punt was there, but Mercer made a great play on it and it didn’t go our way. The play was there, though. The days of playing close at VMI are over. We’re playing to win. I didn’t come here to play close. I didn’t come here to feel good losing a close game. We’re here to win football games and these players are stepping up to make plays to win. If we convert that, you say, ‘Wow, great play. Nice call.’ Unfortunately, Mercer made the interception and made a great play.”
On Mercer run defense: “They played well. They had two weeks to get ready for us and came up with some different twists and blitzes. It paid off for them.”
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