And as the clock ticked to midnight, the players released that emotion and intensity on each other - not holding anything back.

Leaving coach Miller gritting his teeth with each hit.

"I don't know about you guys, but I felt the hitting out here was as good, if not better than it has been in the past," Miller said to his players. "I'm pleased with the effort, emotion and intensity you guys displayed out here."

Miller also had to be pleased with his men in the trenches as they showcased the increased power and quickness gained in the weight room and conditioning program.

Among the highlights were the battle between senior Teddy Hale and junior Josh Boehringer. Both kids took it to each other in an intense battle.

Sophomore lineman Brandon Powell also stood out with a pancake block, while Ben Christian showcased his all-state potential on both sides of the ball.

Another player making an impression at the line of scrimmage was sophomore Steven Blei.

Making an impression running the football, as well as with his defensive effort was Lon Bitner. The junior plowed over a defender for a score at the offensive end, then went to the defensive side to make a tackle while being blocked.

Several freshman made an impression as well with Kyler Deeter running hard, Dylan Owens blocking well and Troy Cron making some nice catches.

The Buccs then went to game-like situations. And the highlights continued with Boehringer being a terror from his nose guard position.

At the offensive end, Tyler Noffsinger showcased his blazing speed on a 60-yard touchdown run, while senior Garrett Clark ran with improved power and quickness from his fullback position.

The starting defense was also treated to some fun as they went against the master of the triple-option. Coach Miller went under center with the second unit.

And the former Centerville High School quarterback proved he still had it by faking out the entire defense on a fake pitch-out that resulted in a large gain.

The play drew a smile of amazement from Garrett Clark.

"I thought you said he wasn't any good," Clark said to Buccaneer defensive coordinator Dave Miller Sr. "How the heck did he do that?"

In all, it was a night of fun for the Buccs as they prepare to get down to business over the next two weeks in preparation for the season opener against New Bremen.