Bulldogs' big guns pave way to win over Lancers

ELDRIDGE There is a significant discrepancy in knowledge and talent inside Dan Knight's practice room.

In one corner, Bettendorf has three nationally ranked wrestlers, two other state champions and a state runner-up.

The other side of the room features a plethora of inexperience, particularly at the upper three weights, after 220-pounder Max Erpelding has been ruled out for the season.

For Bettendorf to have any opportunity of defending its state duals title come February, Knight realizes the development of the latter is paramount.

"The attitude is there, the work ethic is there, but they just need mat time and to do things over and over again," Knight said after the Bulldogs defeated Davenport Central 80-0 and North Scott 43-24 in a Mississippi Athletic Conference double dual Thursday night at The Pit. "It will take time."

In the meantime, there is added pressure on Bettendorf's established wrestlers to produce bonus points.

They delivered.

After North Scott won four of the first five bouts to build a 21-3 advantage, Bettendorf recovered with four falls, a major decision and forfeit win to seal the triumph.

"For me, it is more individual pressure than team pressure," said 120-pounder Jacob Schwarm, who had a pair of first-period falls on the night. "I'm always looking for pins and bonus points."

In addition to Schwarm, Jack Wagner (113 pounds), Fredy Stroker (145) and Jacob Woodard (152) had pins for the Bulldogs. It marked the 100th career fall for Stroker.

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Bulldogs' big guns pave way to win over Lancers