As the Chelsea Bulldogs won their biggest game of the season against rival Dexter, many players stepped up when the bright lights were shining. Senior Regan Plank had one of his best games of his career, making many game-changing plays.

Being a three-year starter on the team, Plank commands the defense, which has recently been one of the best in the state.

“It’s a lot of responsibility for me,” Plank said. “Knowing that I’ve played the most out of everyone on the defense, they look to me to lead and make sure everyone is in the right spot.”

Also, being a veteran player comes with a lot more than just being the leader on the defense. Plank is also forced to make many plays that others would not be able to make.

“The plays I make out there, I feel like a lot of other players can’t make,” Plank said. “It just comes from playing so much and watching a lot of films on the other team, so you know what to do at the right time.”

Last Friday night, Regan recorded six solo tackles and two assisted tackles, but the most important play from him came late in the fourth quarter when Dexter had the ball on the Chelsea goal line and Plank fired across the line and hit Dexter running back in the backfield.

“It was probably one of the best plays that I’ve ever made,” Plank said. “For me to do that at such an important time for the team means a lot to me that I was able to help us win.”

Not only does he lead on the field, but also off the field for the younger players on the team.

“I try to be a good role model for the freshman and sophomores on the team so they can keep the real dog pride,” Plank said. “That’s what the past players did for me, and it’s the older guys’ job on the team to continue it.”