Coaches will (usually) tell people of my ilk - media folk - that they are focused on their team and what their team must do to prepare for an upcoming game or match. Which makes sense because an individual should only worry about what is within that individual's realm of control.
Still, I was confused: In order for a coaching staff to prepare their team in the best way possible, scouting opponents is a crucial aspect. Part of the preparation process is watching film and (perhaps) talking with colleagues to find out what the next opponent does well. A scouting report is prepared and players become cognizant of their opponents' strengths and weaknesses.
From my understanding, that's standard operating procedure. In the case of the IU women's soccer team, part one of that typical process (watching film) cannot come to fruition. I am not saying IU will not know their opponent.
"We don't have tape on USF," said head coach Mick Lyon. "Their first two games were called short due to rain. We've talked to coaches that have played against them in the past."
Lyon offered some vague praise about the Bulls. Then he reverted back to where his focus lies.
"Our focus is always going to be all about us," he said. "I really believe that [if] we play up to our level, we can beat any team on the schedule."
I understand it's not wise for coaches to alter their approach to the game based on one opponent. But they do have to adjust some things based on what their opponent does well in order to give their players the best chance to win. Right?
"When we see how they play, we're not going to change a lot of things," Lyon said. "All we'll adjust to is if they're playing balls over the top, they're trying to use pace.
"Players have to be aware of how they (their opponents) play, their strengths. Then we talk about what we do - or will do - in the game that will restrict those strengths"
