TRAINING

Kingman / from page 32 side of the ball has been incredible.”

Although the Eagles defense lost considerable talent from last season, they’re far from rebuilding this fall. Senior Tristen Davidson will lead the reloading effort after recording 95 tackles, eight sacks, 23 tackles-for-loss, and three pass breakups from his defensive end spot and says the legacy of a great group of seniors from the class of 2023 will help to galvanize the program going forward.

“The tradition and responsibility that the seniors had brought was tremendous,” Davidson said. “Any team can take that next step if you have the right people leading it.”

Davidson and company hope to carry on that legacy with a senior class that returns four starters defensively, including ballhawking defensive back Carter Helm (22 tkls., 12 PBUs, 10 INTs, 1 Def. TD), versatile defensive back Chase Webster (63 tkls., 4 TFL, 1 PBU, 1 INT), linebacker Bo Watkins (64 tkls., 1 sack, 5 TFLs, 1 FRs, 6 PBUs), and interior lineman Dalton Barber (57 tkls., 3 sacks, 11 TFLs, 1 FRs, 1 PBUs).

Junior D-lineman Brody Bell (64 tkls., 8 sacks, 15 TFLs, 2 FRs, 1FFs) and junior linebacker Collin Schreiner (113 tkls., 4 sacks, 12 TFLs, 1 PBUs, 2 INTs) round out the returning defensive starters, giving Hageman plenty of experience to continue the stingy defensive ways.

Beyond praising the Kingman program and his teammates, Davidson is dedicated to their success before all else.

“My personal goals are to be the best possible role model and leader for my team and do whatever I need to do personally to achieve high success for the team,” Davidson said. “I also want to get all-state honors on both sides of the ball. My team goal is to make it back to the state championship except I want us to come out victorious.

Offensively, the Eagles may have bigger question marks after the loss of All-State QB Nolan Freund, All-CPL lineman Ty Birkenbaugh, second team All-CPL running back Jake Fischer, and second team All-CPL receiver Avrey Albright, but Davidson (41 rec., 692 yds., 10 TDs), Helm (765 total yards, 14 total TDs), Watkins (16 rec., 136 yds., 2 TDs), and Webster (8 rec., 195 yds., 1 TD) provide offensive firepower, while Schreiner and Bell both return with starting experience on the offensive line.

“First and foremost we need to understand that what we accomplished last year has absolutely zero effect on what we hope to accomplish this year,” Hageman said. “As rewarding and fun as last year was, we unfortunately still fell short of our goal. Our team knows that we have a long way to go before we can even start considering a playoff run, much less a championship, but at the same time I’m excited about the experience that our team is bringing back and the new challenges that the season will bring.”

Lincoln / from page 32 fumbles, and seven QB hurries.

Back alongside those two are fellow All-State selection in senior D-back Caleb Dotterer (76 tkls., 2 INTs), junior D-back Levi Bates (29 tkls.), junior linebacker Deegan Walters (89 tkls., sack, INT), and senior D-linemen Josh Davied (28 tkls., sack), Fallon Dyer (21 tkls.), and Austin Baird (72 tkls., 2 sacks).

“Logan and Branden will both start for us on both sides of the ball,” Hamel said. “Logan will be our main workhorse offensively and Branden will be a dude on defense. There’s a lot of playing time between the two of them in the prior years. We will lean on them to lead by example. We will have young talent and will need them to be great role models for them.”

Meier is a dangerous weapon offensively as well. The dual-threat QB threw for 520 yards and eight TDs, while adding another 708 yards and seven TDs on the ground.

“We have a lot of offensive weapons either returning or coming up,” Meier said. “I think we have enough talent on the offensive side to do good things this year.”

Sinclair could see carries out of the backfield after lining up at tight end last season, while Walters (11 rec., 128 yds., 2 TDs), Dotterer (21 rec., 258 yds., 2 TDs; 45 car., 185 yds., 4 TDs), and Bates all return as weapons in the passing game, while Davied, Dyer, and Baird provide time for plays to develop on the O-line.

Mill Valley / from page 35 gained vital experience with 26 tackles, 4.5 tackles-for-loss, and an interception.

Offensively, the Jags welcome back five starters, including All-State offensive lineman, and K-State commit, Gus Hawkins (6-7, 275), whose key takeaway from last season is any coach’s dream to hear.

“I do my job as well as I possibly can,” Hawkins said. “And I don’t worry about anything other than what my coach says.”

Hawkins transferred to Mill Valley from the opposite end of the state after his sophomore year at Scott City. Applebee and his staff helped develop the talented basketball player into an elite offensive lineman and he committed to Kansas State early in the recruiting process.

Senior Mason Kemp (6-7, 210, three-year starter) joins Hawkins on the line and will help to free up space for All-State running back Tristan Baker (1,437 yds., 22 TDs), while a new quarterback will have senior receiver Davion Harris (6 rec., 114 yds., 4 TD) and junior tight end Brody Brigham (9 rec., 141 yds., 4 TDs) to target in the passing game.

“Our expectations remain the same,” Applebee said, “we want to put ourselves in position to be playing our best football in November. We have to replace a lot of experience in certain positions, but we really like the players that are back. We have a great senior class of leaders who we have no doubt will step up and lead at a high level.”every game we play.” on to lose in the semis to eventual state champs Manhattan in 26-23 in overtime, but the Clark continued to perform admirably and finished the season on 25 of 30 passing for 375 yards with four TDs to one interception, along with 174 rushing yards and another TD.

The 6-3 left-handed Clark displayed a smooth throwing motion with excellent arm strength and accuracy at the late May SP Top Prospect event in Salina and appears ready for a breakout senior season as QB1 for the Panthers.

Hunter Mowery, Salina Central, WR, 6-0, 185, 2024: Mowery is coming off a first team All-AVCTL I junior season where he recorded 42 receptions, 638 yards and eight TDs for a Central squad that finished 8-3 and advanced to the 5A quarterfinals.

At the Salina combine in March, the sure-handed receiver ran a 4.87 40, a 4.33 pro agility, with a broad jump of 9-1 and a 32-inch vertical with personal bests of 4.7 seconds in the 40, 35 inches in the vertical jump, 9-8 in the broad jump and a blazing quick 4.22 second pro agility and his skillset and build would also lend itself well to the safety position.

The senior also holds the school-record in the javelin with a throw of 173 feet, three inches, and he gets it done in the classroom where he carries a 4.1 GPA.

Ian Kresin, Lakeside, 5-8, 183, RB/OLB, 2024: At 5-8, 183 pounds, Kresin is built like a tank, but a surprisingly mobile one at that. His 36.8-inch vertical was one of the best at the free Salina combine, while his 4.77 40, 8-10 broad jump, and nine reps of 225 on bench were also great marks.

Coming off a junior season with 1,889 all-purpose yards and 24 total TDs offensively, and career defensive stats of 138 tackles, six sacks, and four interceptions, a big year for the senior will be key to Lakeside success this fall.

His height likely projects him as a slot receiver or running back collegiately, but he could also find a home in a college defensive backfield or linebacker corps.

Kresin participates in band, FFA, and scholars bowl, and carries a 4.0 GPA, bringing a well-rounded team first mindest to any squad.

Jameer Moore, Salina Central, 6-3, 162, WR/CB, 2024: It’s likely no one had a better all-around day at the free Salina combine than Moore. The rangy 6-3 defensive back from Salina Central consistently ran 4.5 in the 40, hit 9-8 in the standing broad jump, and showed off incredible hops with a 36.7-inch vertical. Moore plays primarily corner –where he recorded 40 tackles, five pass breakups, and two interceptions a season ago – but could also play safety at the next level. K-State has shown interest, and after a good performance at the SP Top Prospect Showcase in late May, Moore picked up offers from Butler Community College and Fort Hays State, and he added a University of Central Oklahoma offer in late June.

A college training table will help Moore add needed weight, but this senior has tremendous upside and could see additional significant offers late in the process.

Cooper Jay, Augusta, 6-1, 312, OL/DL, 2024: Jay is a multi-time participant at Sharp events and the first thing to strike observers regarding the Augusta big man is just that, his massive size. With arms like Hulk Hogan and Twitter videos showing off a legit 500 pound squat, 315 pound bench, and 285 pound incline press, Jay passes the eye test. At free Salina Combine, Jay moved his 312 pounds through 40 yards in 5.69 seconds, leapt seven feet in the standing broad jump and 23.2 inches in the vertical, and pumped out 19 reps at 225 on bench. Picked as a first team All-Butler County offensive linemen by Butler County TimesGazette sports writer Charles Chaney, Jay will combine with standout Oriole 2024 QB Gavin Kiser to help send Augusta to new heights this fall.

Jay holds offers from numerous NAIA programs including Bethel, Benedictine, and Peru State, and after a late summer camp at Butler Community College he picked up an offer from the Grizzlies. He also has significant interest from Emporia State, Missouri Southern, and Missouri Western, and is another prospect that could earn additional significant offers late in the process.

Weston Langvardt, Chapman, OL, 6-4, 285, 2024: Langvardt looked the part of a high-level offensive line prospect at the late may SP Top Prospect Showcase with long arms, a surprisingly lean frame for his size and quick feet. He currently holds offers from virtually every MIAA team including Northwest Missouri State, Pittsburg State, Emporia State, Missouri Western, and Fort Hays State. After camping at FCS University of St. Thomas in late July, Langvardt picked up his first Division I offer from the may be a little thin for a defensive end, but the senior has room to build on a long 6-3 frame with the speed and quickness to expose slow moving tackles with a 4.8 40 and a 4.41 pro agility both clocked at the KC SP Combine, to go with a 9-8 broad jump and 30.9 inch vertical. The senior is likely to see a significant bump in his varsity minutes after playing sparingly as a junior, but in spite of that limited playing time thus far, Taylor earned a Butler Community College offer following the SP Top Prospect Showcase at Mill Valley in mid-July, and also holds offers from William Penn and Mid-America Nazarene, putting North opponents on notice that the senior is ready for a breakout season this fall.

Isaiah Butler, Olathe Northwest, DE/LB, 6-1, 219, 2025: Butler recorded 19 solos, 21 assists, five tackles-for-loss, two sacks, and a punt block for a surprising Northwest squad last fall and will be expected to take on a leadership role this year thanks to the graduation of a loaded senior group, including his older brother Eric, who is now playing at Hutchinson Community College. While Butler has spent his career thus far with his hand in the dirt on defense, he may have just enough speed and quickness to play on two feet as a linebacker collegiately. At the SP KC Combine he ran a 4.76 40 with a 4.47 pro agility and also displayed a 34-inch vertical and 8-5 broad jump. He later improved his 40 to 4.73 at the SP Top Prospect Showcase at Mill Valley in July and also showed off active heads and a great first step in one-on-ones.

Myles Ewell, BV West, OL, 6-7, 285, 2024: Ewell is a hidden-gem in the KC Metro who needs more attention from recruiters. Has the perfect frame for a college offensive tackle and showed off good footwork to go with his long arms and active hands at the mid-July SP Top Prospect Showcase at Mill Valley.

Will again block for standout running back Sage Huffman and help lead a team that should again be a factor in the brutal Eastern Kansas League.

Tommies.

Maddox Waters, Beloit, TE/LB, 6-2, 223, 2024: Waters’ blend of size and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. At the Salina Combine in March he recorded a 5.1 40 and a 4.94 pro agility, along with an 8-6 broad jump and 29-inch vertical, before showing noticeable improvement at the KC SP Combine with a 4.87 40, a 4.75 pro agility, 8-10 broad jump, and 31.2-inch vertical.

Despite Beloit’s run-heavy approach, Waters snagged seven receptions for 188 yards and three TDs in just six games as a junior.

Waters picked up a Butler Community College offer after the mid-July SP Top Prospect Showcase at Mill Valley High School to go with from Missouri Western, Central Missouri, Bethel, Ottawa, and others.

Hank Fuchs, Free State, OL, 6-2, 275, 2024: The son of University of Kansas offensive line coach Scott Fuchs, Free State senior Hank Fuchs has put his impressive size, polish, violent hands, and fully developed technique on display at the 2022 and 2023 Salina Top Prospect Showcases.

The senior is the lone returning offensive line starter from a dominant Free State group last season, but is an excellent piece for head coach Kevin Stewart to build on this fall. The senior committed to Indiana State in August from a notable group of FBC, FCS, and Division II suitors.

Also, keep an eye on his younger brother, a 6-8, 250 pound sophomore at Free State who looked good at SP events this summer and has the potential to emerge as a high level prospect in the months to come.

Caeleb Taylor, Olathe North, DE, 6-3, 194, 2024: Taylor

Tyrone Butler, Lansing, RB, 2024: Butler has 4.5 40 speed that helped him gain 750 yards rushing and score five touchdowns last fall, with more than 1,000 all-purpose yards. He continued to impress at the SP Top Prospect event in KC where he ran a 4.54 40 and jumped an incredible 40.5 inches in the vertical jump. He also showed off good hands and route-running ability and could be a versatile weapon at the next level.

Vinny Jones, Paola, RB/DB, 5-10, 180, 2024: Jones posted a solid 4.72 40 with a 4.67 pro agility, 33.8 inch vertical and 9-0 broad jump at the SP Combine in KC then later blew those numbers out of the water at the SP Top Prospect Showcase running a 4.52 40 and posting a 39.1 inch vertical jump. Jones is also a freak in the weight room with PRs of 315 on bench, 425 on squat and a 285-pound clean. The senior is looking to make a bigger impact on both sides of the ball after serving as primarly a backup for the Panthers last season.

Thomas Cordes, Paola, OL, 6-6, 276, 2024: Cordes towers over a majority of his opponents with his 6-6 frame, but is also surprisingly fleet-footed, clocking a 5.11 40 and a 4.96 pro agility at the SP Combine in KC and adding a 5.10 40 with a 28.7-inch vertical at the SP Top Prospect Showcase at Mill Valley in mid-July. After biding his time as a backup in prior seasons, the senior is poised for a big senior year with the Panthers.

Olathe North’s TJ Porter and Aiden Bruce, Blue Valley Northwest’s Trevor Garlington, Manhattan’s Talon Huff, Blue Valley North’s Ashton Morgan, and Hayden’s Jensen Schrickel are just a brief list of others who also impressed at SP events this summer.

Kansas Pregame Class 6a Preseason Rankings

By Charles Chaney, Butler County Times-Gazette

The defending state champion MANHATTAN Indians are still reveling in their historic run. Each week as people counted them out, Manhattan proved everyone wrong, with it culminating in a double overtime goal line stand 6A championship game victory over Gardner-Edgerton last November. While they return five on the offensive side of the ball, and six on the defensive side, they’ll have to replace almost all their offensive production. Replacing Keenan Schartz, who was an all-state quarterback, and coach’s son, who is now playing collegiately at Washburn, will be difficult, but Carter Aslin, who saw limited action last season, has the confidence of coach Joe Schartz. He’ll be backed up by a trio of returning All-Centennial League linemen in Jacob Barnes, Andrew Kenney, and Jarrett Johnson. Charles Morgan is the top returning rusher and receiver for the Indians. He compiled over 300 yards of total offense last season and a few TDs. Junior Jaydin Hudley will see an extended role this season as well.

Defensively, MHS returns senior safety Max Stanard, a South Dakota State commit who was instrumental in the penultimate two-point conversion stop against the Blazers that delivered the title game win. Last season, he had 99 tackles, among the best in 6A. He’ll spearhead their defense that was No. 1 in 6A last fall, allowing just 14.8 points per game. Stanard will be joined in the secondary by senior Elijah McFadden. He had 64 tackles, two sacks, two INTs and a forced fumble last season. Senior Chris Dunnigan returns after he had 61 tackles with 10-and-a-half of those for losses last season as a junior. He also had two sacks and an interception. He’s another reason why the Indian defense should be one of the best again.

What a season for GARDNER-EDGERTON. Entering the 2022 postseason with a 5-3 record the Trailblazers would rip off four straight wins, knocking off defending champion Blue Valley Northwest in the process. The state title game against Manhattan provided one of the most thrilling finishes in championship history when Manhattan would stop a Blazer twopoint conversion try to win in the second overtime, 21-20.

Don’t expect teams to overlook the Trailblazers this season though, as they return most of their offensive line that blocked for returning senior running backs Dawson Kindler and Dylan Butash. While their schedule is always brutal, they showed last season they’re up for the task. Ethan Whittley, Serge Otiankouya, Kris Markos, and Gabe James are a force to be reckoned with up front. Kindler, one of the top backs in the state returns after scoring 30 TDs last season and rushing for more than 1,500 yards. Butash will complement Kindler as he ran for over 700 yards and five TDs. Colton Hawkinson has experienced a big summer. Last season, he had nine catches for 322 yards and two TDs. Bravin Powell spent time at QB last season and will take the reins full-time this fall. Last season he accounted for 906 all-purpose yards while accounting for 10 TDs.

The Blazer defense returns four starters from a unit that ranked fifth in total defense. Brothers Elijah and Cameron Porter, along with Randy Singleton, means the GardnerEdgerton secondary will once again limit opponents through the skies. They were the fourth best pass defense last season, (106.8 yards per game). Kaleb Dewey at linebacker and Spencer Easley up front should help the defense as well. Last season, Easley had six sacks while the Porter brothers combined for 11 INTs.

Clint Rider’s BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST Huskies were on the wrong end of a few close games last season and they should be expected to turn some of those losses into wins this fall. They’ll be replacing All-State running back Grant Stubblefield, who’s off to play Division I college basketball at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, but the Huskies should have a solid group back and be one of the top teams in 6A, despite the brutal Eastern Kansas League schedule. Despite losing four starting offensive linemen and large pieces of their defense, the Huskies have plenty of firepower returning. Replacing quarterback Connor White will be no easy task, but the Huskies have shown, under Rider, their ability to develop QBs. Senior tight end Gavin Hoffman has numerious power five offers and verbally committed to Iowa earlier this summer. He is the top returning receiver (38 rec., 685 yds., 11 TDs) for the Huskies and will give the new QB a proven weapon. Juniors Brock Heath (6-5, 250) and Andrew Babalola (6-6, 280) will anchor the offensive line and the duo has also received multiple P5 offers. Speedy junior wide receiver Trevor

Garlington and experienced junior running back Lovie Pulliam – the second leading rusher behind Stubblefield a season ago – both appear poised for breakout seasons.

On the defensive side, senior Trey Ridley (80 tkls.), who had three INTs last season, also carries some Division I offers, and will be a force in the secondary. In all, Northwest returns their top three tacklers from last season’s 6-4 squad, including Logan Holthaus (84 tkls.), Colin Matile (84 tkls.) and Nate Livingston (71 tkls.), the last of which who may take the reins as the starting quarterback this fall.

The Huskies should have a solid kicking game in sophomore Trace Rudd. Last season, he made 35 of 41 extra points and averaged 32 yards on punts.

WICHITA NORTHWEST will once again be a tough out for any 6A opponent thanks to the return of the 1-2 backfield punch of senior running back Cencere Thompson and senior quarterback Jayce Glasper. The duo accounted for nearly 2,000 yards rushing last fall while Glasper – who Martin believes is the best quarterback in Kansas – threw for another 1,600 yards as the Grizzlies made it to the quarterfinals of the 6A playoffs before falling to the eventual state champions Manhattan.

Over the last six seasons, Steve Martin has built the Grizzlies into one of Kansas’ elite programs, going 60-11, including three consecutive state title games in 5A. Martin is currently seven wins away from setting the Wichita Northwest all-time coaching wins mark entering his 12th season since taking over for Weston Schartz.

Last season, Wichita Northwest was forced to play a bunch of underclassmen in key varsity roles and Martin expects the experience to pay off for them in the grind that is 6A football.

The Grizzlies also return their top wide receivers from last year, in seniors Michael Lopez Jr. (34 rec., 717 yds., 10 TDs) and Taccarri Brown (18 rec., 440 yds., 4 TDs) which gives Glasper a pair of threats on the outside.

All that offensive firepower will work behind a loaded offensive line that features returning starters Dalton Schraeder, Nathan Davis Jr., and Braxton Hopper. Schraeder is the younger brother of former Atlanta Falcons offensive tackle Ryan Schraeder.

Jacob King is the leading returning tackler for the Grizzlies and was a presence in opposing backfields last fall after tallying 15 tackles-for-loss. Linebacker John Michael Fountain Jr., who has power five offers as just a sophomore, and Dontrell Harris, should help Romello Golston and Caden Ross on the defensive side of the ball. Junior defensive lineman Tre Birch –who holds offers from Western Kentucky and Towson – is one to watch up front. The experience, along with several talented underclassmen, should help an already stout defensive run game that ranked seventh in 6A.

For the first time in eight seasons, the DERBY Panthers are coming off a year where they didn’t make the state championship game. The three losses last season were by a combined nine points, including two to Manhattan. This season, Derby will have a shot at redemption as they travel to Manhattan to open the season. The Panthers have to replace significant talent and experience, including historically good running back Dylan Edwards (now at the University of Colorado), but it’s not the first season Brandon Clark has had to reload.

The Panthers will rely on Braxton Clark at QB (25-30, 375 yds., 4 TDs), Derek Hubbard at running back (50 car., 475 yds., 9 TDs) and Colton Reudy at wide receiver (21 rec., 363 yds., 3 TDs) on the offensive side of the ball. After dealing with an injury last season, DaSaahn Brame, one of the best tight ends in the state, will help bolster things as well. He already carries multiple power five offers. Max Robinson (D2 offers) and Austin Ediger will command the O-line.

Mason Hopper returns as the leading tackler from last season. He had two sacks and forced and recovered a fumble. Demariae Baker, a DB who had two INTs last season and 34 tackles is a multi-season starter in the secondary. Easton Splane had a pick last season and will help Baker patrol the skies.

WASHBURN RURAL returns their quarterback and a stout defense that was already one of the best in the state a year ago. With Branton DeWeese (143-234, 1,884 yds., 25 TDs) controlling the offense, Washburn Rural will once again be a tough team in 6A. They do lose some key pieces in running back Ma’Kenttis Adams, linebackers Ty Weber and Wyatt Conklin, but they have plenty of experience returning to go with DeWeese including receiver Titan Osburn (32 rec., 668 yds., 12 TDs) and a trio of O-linemen that will provide stability up front. The talented duo of twins JC and Jaren Heim will lead the defense alongside high-motor defensive linemen Packson Bettis (North Dakota commit) and Jamond Lane.

WICHITA EAST is back in the fold in 6A as they return DaeOnte Mitchell, one of the top QBs in the state. Last season he threw for 2,279 yards and 25 TDs as he helped Wichita East to a six-win season, including an upset of Kapaun. They’ll also have exciting running back Rayvelle Leak, who ran for 1,507 yards and 26 TDs a season ago, and a fleet of experienced wide receivers. Dayontay Standifer will lead the defense that returns six from last season.

BLUE VALLEY WEST lost four of their six games by touchdown or less. They’ll have to replace Zach Darche, who accounted for over 1,600 yards on offense. However, they return Sage Huffman, who has run for back-to-back 1,400 yard seasons, and he’ll have one of the top offensive lines, featuring Myles Ewell, Hadley Holmes, AJ Roach, and Jackson Cunningham, back to block for him. Brody McManamon is the top returning tackler for the Jags with 54 tackles last season and together with Nico Cocumelli provides two-thirds of a talented defensive front. The BVW schedule is always brutal, but they should be stronger because of it come late October.

BLUE VALLEY will look to make a turn around this season after rare .500 record last year. Their defense will lead the way with Maguire Richman, who had 127 tackles and led the state. Martell “Hot Sauce” Buchanan (North Dakota commit) and Lincoln Stueve will help complement Richman on D while K-State commit John Price is back healthy to lead the offensve from the running back position.

OLATHE SOUTH returns multi-season starting QB Bryce Noernberg, but the graduation of K-State signee Jordan Allen leaves a glaring hole at tight end and defensive end.

JUNCTION CITY is ready to post yet another winning season under long-time coach Randall Zimmerman and will lean heavily on top 2024 linebacker prospect Michael Boganowski, who may take on a heavier load on offense as well.

OLATHE NORTH is always a factor, and while the Eagles lose some key pieces the explosive duo of TJ Porter and Aiden Bruce should keep the offense going in the right direction with FBS offensive line prospect Braden Hales blasting open holes.

OLATHE EAST returns a loaded roster and could be the surprise of 2023.

Charles Chaney is the sports editor for the Butler County Times-Gazette.

DODGE CITY, KS

Derby

2022 Record: 9-3 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. I

Head Coach: Brandon Clark (18th year, 159-44)

Assistants: Austin Wuthrich, Chris Devore, Zach Haynes, Eric Hendrick, Mitch Pontious, Justin Fagan, Derek Goble, Brent Cunningham. Chris Pinaire, Jarrod Foster, Todd Olmstead, Taylor Zeka

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Max Robinson, OL, 6-4, 270, So.; Austin Ediger, OL, 6-1, 285, Sr.; Colton Reudy, WR, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Mason Hopper, DE, 6-0, 220, Sr.; Britton Pascual, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Demariae Baker, DB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Easton Splane, DB, 6-1, 180, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Derek Hubbard, 50 car., 475 yds., 9 TDs

Passing: Braxton Clark, 25-30, 375 yds., 4 TDs

Receiving: Colton Reudy, 21 rec., 363 yds., 3 TDs

Tackles: Mason Hopper, 55 tkls. Sacks: Mason Hopper, 2 sacks Ints.: Demariae Baker, 2 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Being accountable, having high character, positive energy, and serving each other (are our keys to the season). We hope to peak right about the time of the playoffs.”

Notes: After just three losses by only nine total points, Derby has a significant rebuilding job.

Graduated are a pair of standout D-linemen in Samuel Samé (Iowa State) and LaShaon Davis (Friends), top LBs Miles Wash (Southern Illinois) and Roman Boden (All-AVCTL), versatile O-lineman Wyatt Jackson (Shrine Bowl selection), and starting QB Brock Zerger (Friends), but the most glaring hole is left by Colorado signee Dylan Edwards, one of the all-time great running backs in Kansas history. Mason Hopper is back to anchor the D-line and the O-line and secondary return pieces, while three new faces are ready to burst on the scene this fall in QB Braxton Clark, RB Derek Hubbard, and TE DaSaahn Brame, already a top recruit in the class of 2025.

Dodge City

2022 Record: 4-5 / Western Athletic Conference

Head Coach: Glenn O’Neil (2nd year, 10-8; 16th overall, 133-44) Assistants: Daniel Voth, Kyle Culwell, Dustin Ferguson, Marcos Gutierrrez, Danny Finder, Josh Bradshaw, Iric Mawhirter, Noah Williams

Offense: Gun Wing T Defense: 4-4

Returning starters: Edgar Hernandez, OT/DT, 6-1, 245, Sr.; Nery Quinones, G, 5-10, 215, Jr.; Logan Cruz, C, 6-4, 285, Sr.; Nate Gomez, T/DT, 5-11, 255, Jr.; Juan Bermudez, TE, 6-3, 215, Jr.; Tochi Okoro, WR/CB, 6-4, 185, Sr.; Easton Rohr, DE, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Dylan Sonday, ILB, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Cade Barnett, ILB, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Bryson Unzueta, CB, 6-0, 155, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Daelyn Unzueta, 67 car., 401 yds., 3 TDs

Passing: Alan Flores, 3-10, 33 yds. Receiving: Daelyn Unzueta, 12 rec., 221 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Dylan Sonday, 43 tkls. Sacks: Daelyn Unzueta, 1 sack INTs.: Bryson Unzueta, 2 INTs.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “For Dodge City to be successful a dedicated summer in the weight room and practice field is vital. The WAC is always a balanced league with a proud history and each game this year should be very competitive.”

Notes: Outside of a lopsided loss to WAC champions Hays a year ago the Red Demons were quite competitive in league play with a close win over Liberal and narrow losses to Great Bend and rival Garden City. The WAC again looks balanced for 2023. The DC offense will lead the way early as new QB Alan Flores operates behind four returning linemen. He’ll have a pair of big receiving targets in 6-3 TE Juan Bermudez and 6-4 WR Tochi Okoro (Ft. Hays offer). The defense could see growing pains early after graduating three of the top four tacklers and losing the fourth (senior Remmington Miller) to Tommy John surgery in the offseason.

HAYSVILLE-CAMPUS JUNCTION CITY

2022 Record: 1-8 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. I

Head Coach: Jamie Cruce (5th year, 4-30; 11th overall, 46-51*) Assts.: Greg Enns, Darren Robinson, Joe Standard, David Swanson, Lee Weber, Austin Hamm, Nick Dickson, Jacob Allan, Kelly Cordova

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Drake McPherson, QB, 6-3, 181, Sr.; Ryan Salomon, OL, Sr.; Andrue Klitzing, WR/DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Drake McPherson, 462 yds. Passing: Drake McPherson, 665 yds. Receiving: N/A Tackles: Andrue Klitzing, 37 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Andrue Klitzing, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are looking forward to the challenge of the 2023 season. We will need to have a successful summer session as we look to make improvements overall. We have many new starters, but we expect them to work hard and show dedication toward the process. We have a very challenging schedule and will need to be at our best each week.”

Notes: An experienced Campus squad showed potential in the first four weeks of 2022 scoring at least 14 points in every game of a 1-3 start with none of the three losses by more than 21 points, but a Week 5 loss to Derby saw the Colts begin a tough stretch where the offense would tally 14 points or less in each of the final five games of the year. The defense was porous all season allowing at least 28 points or more in all but one contest. Now, Jamie Cruce’s fifth season as head coach starts with only three returning starters, but QB Drake McPherson and defensive back Andrue Klitzing give the Colts a pair of key pieces back on each side of the ball.

*Cruce also spent six seasons as head coach at Bethany College where he was 28-34 before starting his current 11-year run at Pratt and Campus.

2022 Record: 7-3 / Centennial League

Head Coach: Randall Zimmerman (30th year, 183103; 37th overall, 215-136) Assts.: Jimmy Goheen, Chase Jones, WIllie Snipes, Ty Zimmerman, Colten Leikem, Aaron Craig, Rick Bazan, Matt Johnson, Raheem Melton, Jeff Childs, Bob Strahley

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Michael Boganowski, DB/QB, 6-2, 200, Sr., Cooper Bogenhagen, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr., Maliki Daniels, LB/RB, 5-10, 170, Sr., Ryan McCreath, OL, 5-11, 235, Sr., Petren Bartolome, OL, 5-11, 290, Jr., Tymar Jones, OL, 6-0, 277, Jr., Hayden Puryear, DL, 6-1, 240, Sr., Larkin Turner, LB, 6-0, 220, Jr., Lavell Autry, DB, 5-8, 150, So., Jalen Morgan, DB, 5-11, 170, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Michael Boganowski, 267 yds., 2 TDs Passing: Brock Bazan, 476 yds., 5 TDs Receiving: N/A Tackles: Michael Boganowski, 123 tkls. Sacks: Hayden Puryear, 5 Ints.: Michael Boganowski, 4 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We want our players to play together as one. We also hope to stay healthy throughout the season.”

Notes: Now in his 30th season as the Blue Jay head coach Randall Zimmerman will try to post his fifth consecutive year with at least seven wins behind an experienced offensive line and with a defense led by the top-ranked prospect in the class of 2024, Michael Boganowski. An injury to now-graduated QB Xavion Felton cut his season short last fall leaving Junction City with a pair of players back with some experience under center for 2023 in Boganowski and fellow senior Brock Bazan, who threw for nearly 500 yards and five scores in the absence of Felton. The defensive line took a hit with the graduation of Shrine Bowl selection Elijah Clarke-Boyd, but second team All-League DL Hayden Puryear is back and Boganowski is joined by honorable mention linebackers Cooper Bogenhagen and Maliki Daniels.

GARDEN CITY GARDNER-EDGERTON

2022 Record: 7-3 / Western Athletic Conference

Head Coach: Brian Hill (14th year, 72-55) Assistants: Justin Reich, Chet Skinner, Asa Gottsponer, Nate Bailey, Mitch Moore, CJ Covington, Devin Limberg, Dan Delgado, Eli Copeland

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Sebastian Lopez, OL, 6-3, 285, Sr.; Alonzo Guevara, OL, 6-4, 265, Sr.; Andrew Moreno, OL, 5-11, 250, Sr.; Adrian Garcia, OL, 6-3, 285, Jr.; Evan Finch, WR, 6-1, 165, Jr.; David Holguin, DL, 5-10, 225, Jr.; Dio Holguin, DL, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Jesus Rodriguez, LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Ethen Allen, CB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Anthony Jimenez, DL, 5-8, 225, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Mario Ruiz, 32 car., 286 yds., 5 TDs

Passing: N/A Receiving: N/A Tackles: Jesus Rodriguez, 80 tkls. Sacks: Dio Holguin, Jesus Rodriguez, 2 sacks ea. Ints.: Ethen Allen, 1 INT

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “The key to our success in this upcoming season is going to be to stay healthy.”

Notes: The Buffs narrowly missed out on a WAC title last season with one score losses to both Hays and Great Bend. Now, veteran coach Brian Hill must rebuild a skill group that was gutted by graduation. Standout three-year starting QB Caleb Wiese, 1,000-yard rusher Zack Keosengphet, and versatile weapons Jerry Arteaga and Ryan Heiman are all gone, along with the bullk of the offensive production. The good news? The new skill players will work behind a big, experienced offensive line that returns four starters. The defense also took significant graduation losses including five of the top seven tacklers, but each level of the D returns at least one starter with senior linebacker Jesus Rodriguez the key cog after an 80 tackle, two sack season last fall.

2022 Record: 9-4 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Jesse Owen (3rd year, 13-10; 9th overall, 40-40) Assistants: Bryan McCall, Dustin Delaney, Ryan Lonergan, Drew Brown, Dalton Inlow, Kyle Rush, Leon Washington, Jeff Colter, Spencer Webb

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-3

Returning starters: Ethan Whittley, C, 6-0, 245, Sr.; Serge Otiankouya, G, 6-0, 290, Sr.; Gabe James, T, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Dawson Kindler, FB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Dylan Butash, RB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Bravin Powell, QB, 6-3, 180, Jr.; Colton Hawkinson, WR, 6-5, 200, Sr.; Spencer Easley, DE, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Randy Singleton, DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Elijah Porter, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Cameron Porter, DB, 5-9, 160, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Dawson Kindler, 343 car., 1,551 yds., 30 TDs; Dylan Butash, 75 car., 705 yds., 5 TDs Passing: N/A Receiving: Colton Hawkinson, 9 rec., 322 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Dawson Williams, 56 tkls.

Sacks: Spencer Easley, 4 sacks Ints.: Elijah Porter, 6 INTs; Randy Singleton, 5 INTs

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our returning starters will be in new roles as senior leaders. Their responsibility is to lead by example and set the tone for our team. At the same time, we have several underclassmen in new varsity roles. We need them to consistently improve.”

Notes: Who knew that 2021’s 38-35 regional playoff loss to Manhattan would be a preview of the 2022 6A championship? Neither team entered last season in the preseason Top 5, but the Blazers rallied in the playoffs after three regular season losses and pushed MHS to the brink in a 21-20 double OT classic. G-E won’t be overlooked this season thanks to an experienced O-line and great group of skill players led by 1,500-yard rusher Dawson Kindler.

KC-WYANDOTTE LAWRENCE

2022 Record: 2-7 / Meadowlark Conference

Head Coach: Marcus Vaughn (2nd year, 2-7)

Assistants: Issac Templeton, Eugene Rodriquez, Anthony Williams, Willie Vaughn, Derek Braxton

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Jason Holmes-Vaughn, DE, 6-3, 200, Jr.; Derek Majors, DE/RB, 190, Sr.; Johnathan Atty, WR/CB, 6-4, Sr.; Issac Villescaz, OL, 6-2, Jr.; Shaun Carter, ATH, 5-10, 175, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: N/A Passing: N/A Receiving: Johnathan Atty Tackles: Jason Holmes-Vaughn Sacks: Jason Holmes-Vaughn Interceptions: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are looking forward to improving our record from last year and getting stronger as a team as we go forward. Our keys to success are to remain together as a team and play hard for four quarters.”

Notes: A 2-3 start to 2022 included close losses to Highland Park (60-47) and Sumner Academy (27-26) and culminated with a Week 5 54-0 shutout of J.C. Harmon, but the Bulldogs could not maintain that momentum and ended the year on a four-game losing streak against a much tougher portion of the schedule. Coach Marcus Vaughn enters his second season looking to improve his squad’s record and field a team that will “play hard for four quarters.”

He bids farewell to some tremendous size along the offensive line and running back Jordan Bragg, but welcomes back talented wide receiver Johnathan Atty and a potential breakout player in versatile weaspon Shaun Carter, as well as junior O-lineman Issac Villescaz, back for his second year as a starter. On defense the Bulldogs return three-year starter Jason Holmes-Vaughn at one defensive end and Derek Majors at the other, while Atty – who Vaughn calls a “lockdown corner with amazing speed and athletic ability” – will also play a key role on the defensive side of the ball.

2022 Record: 6-4 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Clint Bowen (3rd, 16-7) Assistants: Taylor Stuart, Steve Walter, John Ely, Devin McAnderson, Adam Green, Zach Wormsley, Darian Lewis

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Will Hendricks, OT, 6-3, 290, Sr.; Dylan Alvarado, OC, 6-1, 232, Sr.; Elijah Hernandez, OG, 6-0, 255, Sr.; Connor Nowak, OG, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Mason Mosiman, WR, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Kem Allen, DT, 6-2, 292, Sr.; Banks Bowen, DB/QB, 6-3, 185, Jr.; Jaylen Parks, DB, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Tony Jacobsen, CB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Josh Galbreath, OLB, 6-3, 186, So.; Andrew Nelson, DT, 5-10, 285, Jr.; Tyson Grammer, QB, 6-0, 195, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Banks Bowen, 34 car., 232 yds., 5 TDs Passing: Tyson Grammer, 93-151, 1,502 yds., 14 TDs Receiving: Mason Mosiman, 5 rec., 75 yds. Tackles: Zander Thomas, 48 tkls. Sacks: Zander Thomas, 1 Ints.: Zander Thomas, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We want our veteran offensive line to play to their potential. We have a very talented sophomore class that we are excited about watching their growth throughout the season.”

Notes: The Chesty Lions suffered close losses to Olathe South in Week 1 (36-32) and rival Free State in Week 7 (28-26) and were dominant in five of their six wins, but when faced with the state’s upper-tier, LHS found it tough-sledding, losing to eventual 6A runner-up Gardner-Edgerton 35-7 in Week 6 and Derby, 76-28, in regional play. Clint Bowen enters his third season with a load of question marks on defense, but a big and experienced O-line will pave the way for a new backfield while an experienced secondary will help as new faces earn roles in the front seven. Junior Banks Bowen may challenge senior Tyson Grammer for the starting QB job.

Lawrence Free State

2022 Record: 5-4 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Kevin Stewart (5th, 21-15) Assts.: Dylan Brown, Chris Stewart, Marino Vidoli, Jermaine Lopez, Asheiki Preston, Mason Beach, Gabe Kavadas, Brad Gourley

Offense: Spread Defense: Multiple

Returning starters: Hank Fuchs, OL, 6-3, 285, Sr.; Wesley Edison, QB/SS, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Devon Hamilton, WR, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Bralin Preston, WR, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Josiah Moss, WR, 5-8, 150, Sr.; Hyum Vaeono, DT, 6-3, 295, Jr.; Tristan Tran, DT, 6-1, 220, Sr.; Tyler Jeffries, LB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Parker Moore, LB, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Crow Bengoa, LB, 5-11, 200, Jr.; Johnnie Williams, DB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Brayden Byrne, DB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Grant Lincoln, TE/RB, 5-9, 205, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Wesley Edison, 188 car., 884 yds., 11 TDs

Passing: Wesley Edison, 66-123, 928 yds., 9 TDs

Receiving: Devon Hamiliton, 16 rec., 235 yds., 4 TDs

Tackles: Tyler Jeffries, 37.5 tkls. Sacks: N/A

Interceptions: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are building depth and talent in our program. Last year our junior varsity finished 7-1 and a lot of players competed for playing time. This depth of competition should push our team internally. Our 2023 senior class has the lowest number of players but our 2024 and 2025 senior classes have an abundance of quality depth. We will have impact players at each level of offense and defense.”

Notes: The graduation of KU signee Calvin Clements and three other OL starters leaves a rebuilding job up front, but Hank Fuchs is back for his senior season to provide leadership. LFS does return experienced skill players led by dual-threat QB Wesley Edison. While the OL rebuilds the defense will lead the way behind eight returning starters including a talented trio of LBs and a pair of big D-linemen.

Manhattan

2022 Record: 13-0 / Centennial League

Head Coach: Head Coach: Joe Schartz (15th, 120-29) Assistants: Eric Altevogt, Lucas Aslin, Jim Webber, Steve Aschenbrenner, Danny Grater, Chad Wolf, Ryan Small, DeShawn Fogle, Jarrett Stanton

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Jarrett Johnson, LT, 6-2, 255, Sr.; Jacob Barnes, LG, 5-11, 235, Sr.; Andrew Kenney, RT, 6-3, 290, Sr.; Charles Morgan, RB/ WR, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Dwayne Newby, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Max Stanard, SS, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Chris Dunnigan, OLB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Ian McNabb, OLB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Elijah McFadden, FS, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Tyler Durtschi, SS, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Logan Stevens, DT, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Clayton Frehn, NG, 6-2, 230, Sr.; Raymond GaryHernandez, DT, 6-3, 220, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Charles Morgan, 12 car., 118 yds., 1 TD Passing: Carter Aslin, 20-28, 236 yds., 4 TDs

Receiving: Charles Morgan, 16 rec., 188 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Max Stanard, 99 tkls. Sacks: Ian McNabb, 3

Ints.: Max Stanard, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “It has been said that it is easier to become champions than it is to remain champions. We will have a very challenging season ahead of us. It will be difficult to replace the graduating seniors. We still have a very challenging schedule, including Derby, Hays, Junction City, Washburn Rural and Wichita Northwest. We do return five starters on offense and six on defense. We have another strong senior class and we expect them to lead the way.”

Notes: Manhattan’s Week 1 OT victory over Derby launched a historic 2022 season. When the dust settled the Indians were unbeaten 6A champs, edging Derby a second time in the semifinals and besting Gardner-Edgerton in a double OT epic in the title game. Experience in the trenches will carry the Tribe as they defend their title.

Olathe Northwest Olathe South

2022 Record: 8-4 / Sunflower League

2022 Record: 7-3 / Sunflower League

Olathe East

2022 Record: 2-7 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Courtney Porter (4th, 9-17) Assistants: Chris Bergida, Keke Blackmon, Travis Greer, Jeff Gourley, Rich Lane, Lance Larson, Jerome, McCray, Hakeem Mosby, Jason Peete, Spencer Peterson

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Grant Pollak, WR, 5-9, 150, Jr.; Jalen Proctor, RB, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Gerard Reed III, WR/DB, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Carter Gooding, WR, 6-0, 150, Jr.; Ray Smith III, RB/LB, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Jaden Brown, WR, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Michael Costello, LB, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Jack Cornell, QB, 5-10, 185, Jr.; Adam Walters, DB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Jake Mohlman, DB, 5-7, 145, Jr.; Luke Mohlman, LB, 5-8, 155, Jr.; Josiah Young, DL, 6-3, 215, Jr.; Trevor Widener, DL, 6-0, 215, Jr.; Brett Carroll, OL/DL, 6-4, 285, Sr.; William Kalihamwe, OL, 6-0, 285, Sr.; Craig Hartung Jr., DL, 5-11, 270, Sr.; Max Milligan, TE, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Damarion GreenBurk, OL, 6-2, 310, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Jalen Proctor, 107 car., 565 yds. Passing: Jack Cornell, 914 yds., 7 TDs Receiving: Gerard Reed, 17 rec., 212 yds. Tackles: Gerard Reed, 84 tkls. Sacks: Brett Carroll, Craig Hartung, 1 Ints.: Gerard Reed, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(We want to) be dedicated and disciplined, embrace the difficulty and raise our level of preparation. We want to connect, build, have fun, and win.”

Notes: A young East team took their lumps last season, but fourth-year coach Courtney Porter welcomes back a whopping 18 players with starting experience including a trio of talented high-level college prospects in RB/LB Ray Smith (SEMO, Southern Ill., NW Mo. offers), WR/DB Gerard Reed (Central Mo. offer), and OL/DL Brett Carroll (Minnesota, Iowa St., K-State, Illinois, Oklahoma St. offers). Junior QB Jack Cornell is back to operate behind a big and experienced offensive line.

Olathe West

2022 Record: 8-3 / Sunflower League

Olathe North

2022 Record: 9-2 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Chris McCartney (9th year, 63-24) Assts.: Josh Carroll, David Blazevic, Matt Johnson, Sean Richardson, Maurice Mack, Jeremiah Baer, Jeremy Pride, Israel Marshall, John Morgan, Keith Galindo, CJ Reese, Montai Mickens

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Aiden Bruce, WR/RB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; TJ Porter, RB, 5-7, 165, Sr.; Noah Emmerick, OL, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Alex Spencer, OL, 6-3, 265, Sr.; Braden Hales, OL, 6-4, 290, Sr.; Tamer Almomari, OL, 6-0, 275, Sr.; Nate Gunderson, DT, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Andrew Yarnell, DL, 6-4, 215, Sr.; Daniel Vann, DT, 6-2, 285, Sr.; MJ Mack, DB, 5-9, 165, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: TJ Porter, 181 car., 1,236 yds., 14 TDs

Passing: N/A Receiving: Aiden Bruce, 3 rec., 46 yds., 3 TDs Tackles: Nate Gunderson, 44 tkls. Sacks: Nate Gunderson, 3 Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We have a handful of returning players with good playing experience. We will be inexperienced on defense and experienced on offense. We face a tough schedule and will need to stay healthy to have success.”

Notes: An experienced offense led by explosive playmakers TJ Porter and Aiden Bruce will have to carry the Eagles early while new faces join the D. The O-line should be among the best in the Sunflower League thanks to the return of four starters, including Division I prospect Braden Hales (Colorado St., Ball St., Military Academy offers) and honorable mention All-Sunflower League selection Alex Spencer. The back half of the defense was hit hard by graduation with the Parrish twins lost in the secondary and Alex Gunderson in the linebacker corps. MJ Mack is the lone returning starter in the secondary while linebacker Nate Gunderson, and D-linemen Andrew Yarnell and Daniel Vann will build a wall up front to protect new backers and D-backs.

OP-BLUE VALLEY

2022 Record: 5-5 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Lorne Clark (2nd, 8-4)

Assistants: Keith Winger, Mike Stephens, Joesph Blake, Lucas Yarnell, Justin Slaven, Alex Schuh, Avery Parker, Fritz Desir, Scott Schriner, John Kovaleski, Jake Carroll, Jake Bade

Offense: Pro Style/Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Merak Greinert, QB/FS, 6-2, 192, Jr.; Nathan Leeper, OL/DL, 6-3, 227, Sr.; Brylar Gildart, WB/DB, 6-0, 177, Sr.; Jake Brink, OL/DL, 6-2, 264, Jr.; Isaiah Butler, DE, 6-2, 215, Jr.; Riley Jankel, DB/WR, 5-11, 165, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: N/A Passing: Merak Greinert, 51-95, 727 yds., 6 TDs Receiving: Maso:n Schlittenhard, 6 rec., 129 yds., 3 TDs Tackles: Isaiah Butler, 40 tkls. Sacks: Isaiah Butler, 2 Ints.: Merak Greinert, 3 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are hoping to enhance our players’ football knowledge through film study and fall practices. We want to continue the success from last year making it to the sub-state game and continue the physical style of football on offense and defense.”

Notes: After a 1-3 start last fall first-year head coach Lorne Clark led NW on a seven-game win streak that culminated with a 6A semifinal berth, avenging two of the early season losses in the process. Gone is a talented and experience group from the class of 2023 including standout RB/LB Eric Butler (Hutch CC) and DB/WR Micah Geary (Pitt. State). A few pieces return for 2023 with junior QB Merak Greinert back behind an O-line that features an experienced duo in senior Nathan Leeper and junior Jake Brink. Junior DE Isaiah Butler, Eric’s younger brother, is one to watch for the Raven defense this season. Clark also welcomes back potent kicker Tanner Traschel and top-ranked long snapper Dean Gorby.

Head Coach: Ron Litchfield (2nd year, 7-3)

Assistants: Todd Buttermore, Josh Perkins, Kenyon Thornburg, Chad Hoffman, Nate Pauly, Adam Christopher, Damon Bell, Paul Gilmore

Offense: Spread Defense: Odd Front

Returning starters: Bryce Noernberg, QB, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Jayden Berry, OL/DL, 5-11, 280, Sr.; Jackson Skeens, WR/DB, 6-10, 170, Sr.; Dylan Talcott, LB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Carter Bohm, DB, 6-2, 210, Sr.; Cooper Warren, WR/RB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Simon Groves, DL, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Max Armstrong, LB/RB, 5-10, 200, Jr.; AJ Shellhammer, OL, 5-10, 240, Jr.; Matt Gray, OL/DL, 6-2, 260, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Bryce Noernberg, 71 car., 489 yds., 6 TDs

Passing: Bryce Noernberg, 92-159, 1,491 yds., 17

TD Receiving: Max Armstrong, 20 rec., 170 yds., 2

TDs Tackles: Dylan Talcott, 57 tkls. Sacks: Jayden Berry, 1 Ints.: Carter Bohm, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We hope our players will compete daily and be great teammates. Consistency will be a key this year to our team’s success. We will continue to work on the development of the younger players.”

Notes: Veteran Missouri and Iowa high school coach Ron Litchfield continued the upward trend for the Falcons in his first year last fall, improving to 7-3 after 1-5 and 5-5 records in the final two seasons of the Craig Lewis tenure. Gone from that team is standout TE/DE Jordan Allen (K-State) but back are 10 players with starting experience including senior QB Bryce Noernberg, one of the top players in the Sunflower League, and offensive weapons Max Armstrong and Jackson Skeens. South returns key pieces at each level of the D in D-lineman Jayden Berry, LBs Dylan Talcott and Carter Bohm and Skeens at DB.

Head Coach: Jon Wiemers (1st) Assistants: Eric Burrow, Kraig Goerl, Zach Russman, Eric Kinney, Mike McClaughlin, Mike Zegunis, Seth Zegunis, Tyler Rodden, Sam Palm, Gabe Bierman, Ryan Krzykowski

Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Mason Barnard, QB/WR, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Elijah Hakim, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Maddux Leiker, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Carson Buster, DL, 6-0, 245, Sr.; Chase Campbell, OLB, 6-4, 180, Jr.; Tank Turner, DL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Sam Ables, DL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Layson Johnson, ILB, 6-0, 180, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Mason Barnard, 19 car., 91 yds. Passing: Mason Barnard, 6-9, 143 yds., 2 TDs Receiving: Elijah Hakim, 27 rec., 393 yds., 6 TDs Tackles: Layson Johnson, 80 tkls. Sacks: Sam Ables, 2 Ints.: Maddux Leiker, Camden Eckstein, 1 INT ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are going to focus on the day-by-day process of getting better. We will have a lot of inexperience after losing a lot of starters from a successful season. My goal is that we continue to improve practice-bypractice and game-by-game so we are competitive when the playoffs roll around.”

Notes: After six seasons as the only coach West has ever known, including an inaugural non-varsity 2017 campaign and an improbable semifinal berth in 2018’s first varsity season, T.J. O’Neill joins the staff at BV North. O’Neill’s 31-21 varsity record included seven and eight win seasons the past two falls. Now, veteran high school and college coach Jon Wiemers takes over after five years at Ark City. He inherits a roster with major holes to fill, notably in the form of graduated QB Mason McGavran, 1,000-yard rusher Vincent Gatschet, and three of the top four tacklers.

Head Coach: Allen Terrell (7th year, 39-22; 13th overall, 70-50) Assistants: Paul Brown, Jonathan Jost, Adam Bien, Brandon Olney, MJ Bland, Nate Schmidt, Larry Lindsay, Demetrius Bernard, Don Hanna, Tad Kersting, Mel Foxx, Jackson Sherley, AJ Totta, Ryan McNerlin

Offense: Pistol Spread Defense: Odd Returning starters: Robert Marshall, S, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Anthony Longergan, S, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Martell Buchanan, DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Maguire Richman, LB, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Jason Burroughs, LB, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Dawson Merritt, LB, 6-3, 205, Jr.; Lincoln Stueve, DL, 6-3, 220, Jr.; Manaloealii Faagutu, DL, 5-10, 260, Sr.; Zech Pombo, DL, 5-10, 225, Sr.; John Price, RB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Luke Hinman, OL, 6-0, 260, Jr.; Garrett Claypool, OL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Grady Westphal, WR, 6-3, 180, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: John Price, 1,004 yds. Passing: N/A Receiving: Grady Westphal, 25 rec., 482 yds. Tackles: Maguire Richman, 127 tkls. Sacks: Lincoln Stueve, 3 Ints.: Robert Marshall, 5

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “New faces on offense have to gel quickly. Training and preparing to our standards will be the key to our success. Our goal is to win a 6A State Championship.”

Notes: A young Tiger D took its lumps last season, allowing at least 35 points in each of the team’s five losses. Now that young D is experienced, with nine returning starters charged with keeping opponents out of the end zone while seventh-year coach Allen Terrell rebuilds the offense. The good news for Terrell is the return of talented RB John Price (K-State commit) and standout WR Grady Westphal (Texas A&M baseball commit) to build around.

Alex Reinecke, Agent Phone: 620-546-4861

OP-BLUE VALLEY NORTH

2022 Record: 1-8 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Drew Hudgins (1st year) Assistants: TJ O’Neill, Ian Nichols, Trent Hedlund, Brandon Pierce, Garett Aimutis, Derc Albrecht, Blake Mudd, Michael Allen, Josh Barnes, Ron Barnes

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Ben Baker, QB, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Austin Boulton, RB, 5-8, 215, Sr.; Forest Kohrs, OL, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Tyler Maslowski, LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Connor Nutt, OL, 6-0, 225, Sr.; Owen Perkins, DL, 6-3, 220, Jr.; Quentin Wallace, H/TE, 6-3, 225, Jr.; Davis Weber, OL, 6-2, 240, Jr.; Brady Whitman, LB, 6-3, 220, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Austin Boulton, 29 car., 90 yds Passing: Ben Baker, 789 yds., 3 TDs Receiving: N/A Tackles: Brady Whitman 71 tkls. Sacks: Brady Whitman, 4.5

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our keys to success are to) focus on us, win in practice, develop leadership, run the ball, stop the run, win takeaway battle, win special teams snaps.”

Notes: After just four wins in two seasons the Blue Valley North administration decided to look to the Mill Valley staff to replace Adam Pummill, welcoming in Jaguar defensive coordinator Drew Hudgins, who will try to return BVN to the significant success found under current Park Hill (Mo.) coach Andy Sims. A multi-time Assistant Coach of the Year, Hudgins served as defensive coordinator and strength and conditioning coordinator for a Mill Valley program that won the last four 5A titles. Hudgins also turned to connections with Mill Valley to fortify his staff by hiring former Jag assistant TJ O’Neill as one of his coordinators after O’Neill spent the last six seasons as the first ever head coach at Olathe West. Hudgins has several key pieces to build around, including senior quarterback Ben Baker, three returning starters on the offensive line, and senior linebackers Brady Whitman and Tyler Maslowski.

OP-BLUE VALLEY NORTHWEST

2022 Record: 6-4 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Clint Rider (7th year, 27-30; 13th overall, 70-50) Assistants: Kollin Ahern, Zack Orrick, John Reichart, Darren Masten, Tobin Sample, Curt Alderman, Dayton Valentine, Steven Fee, Reggie McElroy, Ed Thomas, Joseph Tii, Caleb Vanderlugt

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Brock Heath, OL, 6-5, 230, Jr.; Gavin Hoffman, TE, 6-5, 208, Sr.; Trevor Garlington, WR, 6-1, 145, Jr.; Trey Ridley, DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Colin Matile, LB, 5-10, 145, Sr.; Logan Holthaus, LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Chris White, DL, 6-0, 203, Sr.; Max Barnes, DB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Nate Livingston, DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Lovie Pulliam, 84 car., 514 yds., 3 TDs

Passing: N/A Receiving: Gavin Hoffman, 38 rec., 685 yds., 11 TDs Tackles: Logan Holthaus, 84 tkls. Sacks: Chris White, 0.5 Ints.: Trey Ridley, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our schedule is as tough as they come and this team will be challenged right out of the gate. We will focus on getting better week by week and I look forward to watching what this team is capable of becoming.”

Notes: The Huskies unsurprisingly took a step back last season after graduating a loaded class that led BVNW to the 2021 6A title, but the 6-4 record last fall doesn’t illustrate how close the Huskies were to another deep playoff run. All four losses were by 15 points or less, including 28-19 to eventual 6A finalist Gardner-Edgerton in regionals. Now, seventhyear coach Clint Rider must replace QB Connor White, versatile RB Grant Stubblefield, four of five O-linemen, and big chunks of the D against another brutal EKL schedule. Don’t cry for Rider though, his roster is loaded with star power including TE Gavin Hoffman (B12/SEC/B10 offers), O-linemen Brock Heath (P5 offers) and Andrew Babalola (B12/SEC/ ACC offers), and D-back Trey Ridley (P5/FCS offers).

Shawnee Mission North Shawnee Mission Northwest

2022 Record: 2-7 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Andy Walter (4th year, 4-20)

Assistants: Danny Long, Julian Parks, Julius Dunn, Ryan Durand, Jake Seurer, Colin McCarty, Barnett Thompson, Dennis Grayless, Matt Jacobsen, Sam Jacobsen, Brett Moulin

Offense: Triple Option Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Nate Doolin, WR, 6-4, 200, Sr.; Jourden White, WR/CB, 5-11, 145, Sr.; Liam Dalley, WR/SS, Sr.; Chris Andrews, OL, 6-0, 220, Sr.; De’Andre Wilson, OL, 6-2, 285, Sr.; Elijah Shriver, OL, 6-4, 230, Sr.; Jeremiah Looney, RB/CB, 5-9, 155, Jr.; Judah Jones, RB/LB, 5-8, 187, Sr.; Serafin Galvin, DL, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Julius Casares, DL, 6-1, 230, Jr.; Moses Bortka, FS, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Jeremiah Looney, 37 car., 389 yds., 3 TDs; Judah Jones, 18 car., 179 yds., 1 TD Receiving: Nate Doolin, 8 rec., 109 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Judah Jones, 52

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Last season we were a few snaps away from being 5-3 in the regular season and being a real threat in the playoffs. This year our focus is on finishing games and taking the next step forward as a program. This is the most talented team we’ve had since I’ve been here and I’m excited to see them compete.”

Notes: The Bison made significant strides a season ago in spite of the 2-7 finish. Among those two wins were a 28-21 upset of seven-win Olathe South, while the seven losses included overtime heartbreakers to Shawnee Mission East and Lawrence Free State and a 41-point outburst in a 63-41 loss to Olathe West.

Fourth-year coach Andy Walter is excited for this season and thinks the Bison can take the next step behind 12 returning starters. Offense could lead the charge with three returning O-linemen and talented backs in Jeremiah Looney and Judah Jones.

2022

Record: 3-6 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Bo Black (9th year, 34-41; 23rd overall, 124-90) Assistants: Brian Vesta, Sedrick Cook, B.J. Harvey, Jay Black, Garrett Graves, B.J. Dunbar, Dominc Mussatt, Richie Bryant, Billy Dent, Brad Qualls, Eric Williams

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3

Returning starters: Denzell Dillard, C, 6-1, 305, Sr.; Logan Morley, QB, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Clay Habben, WR, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Daisean Bennett, WR/LB, 6-3, 198, Jr.; Evan Qualls, WR, 5-9, 150, Sr.; Harper Engel, DE/TE, 6-5, 240, Jr.; Brayden Frazier, DE/ OT, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Josh Mudgett, DE, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Adam Hageman, LB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Claude Hudson, CB, 5-7, 163, Sr.; Tyler West, CB, 5-9, 145, Jr.; Josh Mackiewicz, S, 6-2, 188, Jr.; Gabe Hoskins, S, 5-11, 185, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders

Rushing: Logan Morley, 52 car., 247 yds., 4 TDs Passing: Logan Morley, 75-132, 829 yds., 9 TDs

Receiving: Daisean Bennett, Clay Habben Tackles: Adam Hageman, 115 tkls. Sacks: Adam Hageman, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(We will have) a lot more two-way players this year due to a lack of depth. Like all years, we must be able to stay healthy. We have a really strong junior class.”

Notes: The Cougars slipped to 3-6 last fall after posted three consecutive winning records the three seasons prior. Northwest will miss graduated standout Malik O’Atis, but an experienced group returns to help get Bo Black’s building project back on track. A strong group of juniors will be key with Black’s explosive offense under the leadership of returning junior QB Logan Morley and a stable of receivers including seniors Clay Habben and Evan Qualls and 6-3 junior Daisean Bennett. Junior LB Adam Hageman returns to lead the defense.

OP-BLUE VALLEY WEST SHAWNEE MISSION EAST

2022 Record: 5-6 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Josh Koerkenmeier (8th year, 26-41)

Assistants: Danny Catanzaro, Ryan Copp, Reed Howard, Nate Harrison, Tyler Dickerson, Joe Allison, Codi Willard, Travis Thurston, Matt Wood, Randy Lowe, Eric Fritch, Andrew Thurman, Phillip White, Ben Ehret

Offense: Multiple Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Jackson Cunningham, OL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Hadley Holmes, OL, 6-3, 220, Sr.; Sage Huffman, RB, 5-8, 170, Sr.; Brody McManamon, DL, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Myles Ewell, OL, 6-7, 285, Sr.; AJ Roach, OL, Jr.; Crew Myers, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Kaden Sheline, WR, 6-2, 178, Sr.; Anthony Tamasi, WR, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Tyler Peterson, TE, Jr.; Nico Cocumelli, DL, 6-4, 220, Jr.; Tate Nagy, DB, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Sage Huffman, 237 car., 1,432 yds., 11 TDs Passing: N/A Receiving: Crew Myers, 32 rec., 491 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Brody McManamon, 54 tkls. Sacks: Brody McManamon, 1 Ints.: Tate Nagy, 2 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We return a group of seniors that has experienced and played key roles in deep playoff runs the last two years. For us to do that again in 2023 this group will have to provide leadership combined with a higher level of physical and mental toughness. We will also rely on some younger and less experienced players to continue to develop to provide the depth needed to play into late November.”

Notes: The Jags finished 2022 5-6, but four of the of the six losses were by seven points or less, including a 21-14 sectional playoff loss to eventual 6A runnerup Gardner-Edgerton. Gone from that team is QB/LB Zach Darche, WR/DB Jack Schneider, OL Terrance Saunders, and DB Lake Ryan, but several key pieces return led by second team All-EKL selections Sage Huffman (RB, consecutive 1,400 yard seasons) and Brody McManamon (DL, Drake offer).

2022 Record: 2-7 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Mark Simoneau (1st year) Assistants: Derrick Rider, Demontie Cross, Chip Ufford, Shawn Hair, Kanon Hoover, Andrew Gagnon, Cap Welsch, Kevin Thompson, Carter Howes, Nick Allen, K. Meisner, Lucas Allen

Offense: Multiple Defense: Multiple Returning starters: Teddy Saylor, WR, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Christian Gooley, WR, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Hayden Falley, RB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Brady Haughton, WR/CB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Joey Hoffman, CB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Anderson Wood, 5-11, 205, Jr.; Kyler Schuessler, LB, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Ryan Dehn, RB/FS, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Chris Minto, RB/MLB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Sam Streiler, TE/DE, 6-3, 220, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Hayden Falley, 20 car., 1 TD Passing: N/A Receiving: Teddy Saylor, 12 rec., 175 yds., 1 Tackles: Joey Hoffman, 66 tkls. Sacks: Kyler Shuessler, 2 Ints.: Joey Hoffman, Anderson Wood, Kyler Schuessler, Brady Haughton, 1 ea. Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our kids have been working hard to prepare for the fall. Our focus is on doing the work with the energy and attention to detail required to play at a high level.”

Notes: After four straight seasons with two wins or less, K-State Ring of Honor selection, College Football Hall of Famer, and former 10-year NFL veteran Mark Simoneau was tasked with returning the Lancers to the success found under Chip Sherman from 2009 to 2012 and Dustin Delaney from 2013 to 2017, with the latter stretch including an unbeaten 6A state championship in 2014. Simoneau spent the past couple seasons as the linebacker coach and director of strength and conditioning at East after coming over from GardnerEdgerton, where he was the director of strength and conditioning. Before coaching in high school he operated his own sports performance business.

Shawnee Mission South Shawnee Mission West

2022 Record: 1-8 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Nick Foster (2nd year, 2-16)

Assistants: Geoff White, Zach McFall, Terrale Johnson, Collin Carter, Dawson Johannes, Will Griffin, Joe Kennard, Chris Kiblen, Damon Gebhardt, Jackson McCally, Bradyen Bromley

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Grant Jennings, QB/SS, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Jake Johnson, WR/CB, 5-11, 150, Sr.; Ben Johnson, RB/LB, 5-10, 190, Sr.; Zaid Saradih, OL/ DL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Logan Headley, OL, 6-0, 225, Jr.; David Link, OL, 5-11, 260, Sr.; Jayson Sifrit, WS, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Carson Long, LB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Jackson Kruske, FS, 6-0, 180, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Ben Johnson, 114 car., 393 yds., 1 TD Passing: Grant Jennings, 70-134, 841 yds., 8 TDs Receiving: Jake Johnson, 17 rec., 168 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Grant Jennings, 71 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Jackson Kruske, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our kids have worked hard all offseason to prepare themselves for this fall. We must continue to believe in ourselves and our ability.”

Notes: The Raiders posted just one win for the second consecutive season and showed few signs of progress in the process scoring 14 points or less in seven of the nine games while allowing 45 points or more seven times. If coach Nick Foster is going to flip the script in his third season he’ll do so thanks to nine returning starters, including four who were twoway players. Senior QB Grant Jennings is back to lead the offense after passing for 841 yards and eight TDs last fall. He’ll also lead the defense after carding 71 tackles from his safety position. Junior free safety Jackson Kruske is one to watch after he made three interceptions as a sophomore a season ago.

2022 Record: 0-9 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Jeff Tolbert (1st year) Assistants: Tommie Davis, Christ West, Doug Catloth, Todd Reed, Reggie Foster, Mike Spotts, Eric Patterson, Denzel Strong, Sidney Bradley, Daniel Eichenberger

Offense: Multiple Power Defense: 4-3 Returning starters: John Rehder, QB, 6-3, 175, Sr.; Chris Wade, WR, 6-2, 195, Sr.; Andrew Kiveranta, TE, 6-2, 210, Jr.; John Levia Lopez, OL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Jack Leon, OL, 6-1, 225, Sr.; Jose Ruiz, OL, 6-0, 250, Sr.; Jace Morales, OL/LB, 5-10, 230, Sr.; Noah Gunion, RB/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; My’Shon Mitchel, RB, 6-0, 195, Jr.; Jayon Noel, DB, 5-6, 175, Sr.; Cortez Velasco, NG, 6-2, 270, Sr.; Kortez Washington, DE, 6-0, Sr.; Steven King, LB, 5-11, Jr.; Brandon Wilson, DB, 6-1, Jr.; Davis Robinson, DB, 5-1, 150, Jr.; Emil Blaylock, DB, 5-11, 160, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Noah Gunion, 37 car., 242 yds., 2 TDs Passing: John Rehder, 33-109, 413 yds., 3 TDs Receiving: Chris Wade, 8 rec., 174 yds., 1 TD Tackles: John Levia Lopez, 43 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Brandon Wilson 1 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our coaching focus will be centered on competitiveness and mental toughness. We have some talented skill position players but we are unproven up front, so our success will depend heavily on the development of our offensive and defensive linemen.”

Notes: A 20-year career as head coach at West ended for Tim Callaghan in May and Viking assistant Jeff Tolbert was promoted to the top. The former head coach of Plattsburg and Van Horn in Missouri spent the past two seasons at West. Tolbert inherits a team that returns 16 starters, but has plenty of room to improve on a 2022 season that saw the Vikings score just 10 points a game while allowing a shocking 53 points a contest on defense.

2022 Record: 1-8 / Centennial League

Head Coach: Carlos Kelly (4th year, 5-19) Assts.: Jermaine Smith, Tony Canacari, Chad Kincade, Jimmy Zirkie, Brandon Mitchell, Desmond Tipton, Tobian Thomas, Eric King

Offense: Power Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Isaiah Kincade, RB/DB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; BJ Canady, QB/DL, 6-7, 250, Sr.; Tevante

Ewing, RB/S, 5-8, 170, Jr.; Jayden Norman, WR, 6-1, 170, So.; SaRon Carter, WR, 6-1, 180, Jr.; Jack Trotter, OL, 6-3, 265, Jr.; Cooper Martin, OL, 6-0, 230, Jr.; Trea Rodgers, OL, 5-11, 265, Jr.; Terrin Redding, OL, 5-11, 220, Jr.; Anthony VasselliLowndes, DE, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Gary Coleman, NG, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Detrick “DJ” Johnson, LB, 6-1, 225, Jr.; Bryson Kincade, MLB, 5-8, 175, Jr.; Malachi Murph, FS, 5-9, 175, So.; Jaziah Mack, DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Tevante Ewing, 69 car., 243 yds., 1 TD Passing: N/A Receiving: Jayden Norman, 61 rec., 879 yds., 4 TDs Tackles: Isaiah Kincade, 56 tkls.

Sacks: N/A Interceptions: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “This season for us will feature two of our best senior athletes in BJ Canady and Isaiah Kincade. Their leadership will be crucial to our success. We lettered over 20 players (last season) that gained a lot of valuable game time experience. Our team is a year older but we are still young at some postions. We anticipate this year’s team to make some strides despite the very tough schedule put in front of us.”

Notes: The Trojans slipped to 1-8 last fall but fourth-year coach Carlos Kelly is optimistic about his squad’s prospects for 2023 thanks to the return of 15 starters. He also knows the improvement slope is steep, especially given only three of those returning starters are seniors. A healthy BJ Canady at QB is one key for Kelly along with the learning curve of a still young O-line and defense. THS could see major improvement this season that may not manifest in wins thanks to a brutal schedule headlined by Maize, Manhattan, Wichita Northwest, Washburn Rural, Junction City, and Hays.

Wichita North

2022 Record: 0-9 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Mitch Kucera (2nd year, 0-9) Assts.: Brian Yenor, Zac Clark, Jack Ewings, Aaron Guerrero, Richard Drakeford, Chris Poe, Jason Storm, Hunter Shockley

Offense: I-fomation Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: DJ Fowler, QB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Deanthony Jones, RB, 6-0, 200, So.; Mason Claussen, OL, 5-10, 300, Jr.; Josh Bafuyne, DL, 5-11, 220, Jr.; Ethan Braden, WR/DB, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Logan Braden, WR/DB, 6-2, 170, Sr; Jaden Fountain, LB, 6-2, 160, Jr.; Jayden Garnes, LB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Orlando Watley, DB, 6-1, 150, Sr.; Emmanuel Roman, K, 5-10, 160, Jr.; Sam Doell, DL/TE, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Judah Haywood, DL/TE, 6-2, 210, Jr.; Ben Gomez, OL/DL, 5-11, 220, So.; Noe Alvarado, FB/LB, 6-1, 200, So.; Martin Gutierrez, DB, 5-8, 160, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Deanthony Jones, 126 car., 451 yds., 1

TD Passing: DJ Fowler, 41-148, 615 yds., 5 TDs

Receiving: Ethan Braden, 3 rec., 101 yds. Tackles: Jayden Garnes, 43 tkls. Sacks: Jayden Garnes, 1

Ints.: Orlando Watley, 3 INTs

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Team goals for this year include: Keep improving statistically, academically, physically. The key to our success is consistency. We need to get better everyday and not make mistakes to get us off track. We need to improve on moving the ball on offense.”

Notes: Year one for Mitch Kucera got off to a bumpy start as his young Redhawks struggled to score points, finding the end zone more than once in just two games. The defense showed some potential, allowing 38 points or less four times, including twice holding opponents under 25 points. Now that young team is experienced, with 15 starters back, but still relatively young, with just six of those players in the class of 2024. Kucera will have a battle-tested signal-caller back in returning starter DJ Fowler, who has thrown for over 1,000 career passing yards. Senior linebacker Jayden Garnes is back to lead an experienced back half of the defense.

TOPEKA-WASHBURN RURAL

2022 Record: 8-3 / Centennial League

Head Coach: Steve Buhler (11th year, 53-44; 31st overall, 173-99) Assts.: Jerry Cavitte, Steve Lincoln, Ryan Smith, Duane Zlatnik, Colter Scott, Josh Lamb, Chris Ridley, Tobi Cowdin, Mike Miller

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3-5

Returning starters: Branton DeWeese, QB, 6-0, 185, Sr.; Jacob Hawks, OT, 6-8, 290, Jr.; Caden Estrada, OT, 6-2, 270, Jr.; Nate Miller, OG, 6-3, 267, Sr.; Packson Bettis, DE, 6-3, 235, Sr.; Jamond Lane, DE, 6-0, 280, Sr.; JC Heim, OLB, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Jaren Heim, SS, 6-0, 210, Sr.; Titan Osburn, WR, 6-3, 175, Sr.; King Leonard, FS, 5-9, 175, Jr.; TJ Minikwu, RB, 6-0, 205, So.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: TJ Minikwu Passing: Branton DeWeese, 143-234, 1,884 yds., 25 TDs Receiving: Titan Osburn, 32 rec., 668 yds., 12 TDs Tackles: Jaren Heim, 79 tkls.; JC Heim, 74 tkls. Sacks: Packson Bettis, 16 sacks Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: N/A

Notes: The Junior Blues started 2022 3-0 against a tough schedule that featured 6A Wichita East, 5A De Soto, and 4A KC Piper, a trio that went a combined 22-10 a season ago, followed by a three-point loss to eventual 6A champion Manhattan and a 24-6 loss to league-rival Junction City. WRHS ended the two-game losing streak with a string of five straight wins before dropping a tough game to Derby (36-21) in the quarterfinals of the 6A playoffs. After consecutive eight-win seasons the Junior Blues do lose several key pieces of that run, including leading rusher Ma’Kenttis Adams, top tacklers Ty Weber and Wyatt Conklin, and top receiving targets Lukas Hanks and Amr Sabbarini. In spite of those graduation losses coach Steve Buhler’s squad looks equipped for another deep playoff run thanks to the return of third-year starting QB Branton DeWeese, three experienced offensive linemen, receiver Titan Osburn, and talented young running back TJ Minikwu. Veteran defenders Packson Bettis, Jamond Lane, JC Heim, King Leonard, and Jaren Heim should also help keep WaRural near the top of 6A.

Wichita Northwest

2022 Record: 8-3 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Steve Martin (12th, 94-28; 16th overall, 125-39) Assts.: Jason Bennett, Dylan Brazell, Michael Johnson, Marc Marinelli, Simon McKee, Ike Onwugbufor, Jonathon Thompson, Luke Westerman, Zack Westhoff

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Cencere Thompson, RB, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Jayce Glasper, QB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Michael Lopez, WR, 5-6, 150, Sr.; Taccari Brown, WR, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Nathan Davis Jr., OL, 6-0, 266, Sr.; Dalton Schrader, OL, 6-5, 285, Sr.; Braxton Hopper, OL, 5-11, 240, Sr.; Brady Johnson, DL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Tre Birch, DL, 6-2, 280, Jr.; Keuntis Henderson, DL, So.; Johnmichael Fountain, LB, 6-1, 205, So.; Quavon Harris, LB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Jamari Bland, 5-10, 215, So.; Jacob King, DB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Jeremiah Harris, DB, 5-11, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Cencere Thompson, 161 car., 1,226 yds., 17 TDs; Jayce Glasper, 78 car., 668 yds., 9 TDs Passing: Jayce Glasper, 81-146, 1,646 yds., 18 TDs Receiving: Michael Lopez, 34 rec., 717 yds., 10 TDs Tackles: Jacob King, 59 tkls. Sacks: Romello Golston, 4 sacks; Caden Ross, 2 sacks Ints.: Dontrell Harris, Ben Heidebrecht, 4 ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “If 2022 had a theme it was ‘Youth Movement!’ At points during the year the Grizzlies were starting five freshmen and three sophomores at a time. It felt eerily similar to the 2016 season where injuries forced the Grizzlies to play eight sophomores, but the Grizzlies used that momentum to go to the state semifinals and then three consecutive state championship appearances.”

Notes: After a Week 1 heartbreaker to Carroll, the Grizzlies lost just two more games in 2022, both to eventual 6A champs Manhattan. A young team now paves the way for a talented and experienced squad that will again be among the favorites in 6A. Jayce Glasper and Cencere Thompson will give coach Steve Martin - just seven wins from the all-time NW record - arguably the best backfield in Kansas.

Wichita East Wichita Heights

2022 Record: 6-4 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Ene Akpan (6th year, 27-20) Assts.: Chaq Reed, Henry Robinson, Cedrick Payne, Justin Hurley, Isiah Gates, Darius Crosby, Carlos Cavanaugh, Keannon Black

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: DaeOnte Mitchell, QB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Rayvelle Leak, RB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; MJ White, WR, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Ashton White, WR, 5-9, 165, Sr.; LT Robinson, WR, 5-10, 150, Sr.; Skylar Toppah, OL, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Austin Fulton, OL, 6-1, 330, Jr.; Zion McIntosh, OL, Jr.; Sa’Ron Hill, OL, 5-10, 220, Sr.; Jaylen Lyons, DL, 6-2, 242, Sr.; Porter Blanton, DL; Shyne Jones, LB, Sr.; Dayontay Standifier, S, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Camren Davis, CB, 5-10, 142, Sr.; Omari Wishom, CB, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Rayvelle Leak, 129 car., 1,507 yds., 26 TDs

Passing: DaeOnte Mitchell, 157-204, 2,279 yds., 25

TDs Receiving: MJ White, 43 rec., 897 yds., 8 TDs; Ashton White, 36 rec., 607 yds., 4 TDs Tackles: Dayontay Standifer Sacks: N/A Ints.: Omari Wishom

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goal for the upcoming 2023 season is to win the State Championship.”

Notes: The Blue Aces posted their second consecutive 6-4 record and their fourth straight winning season for now sixth-year head coach Ene Akpan. East posted quality wins over Kapaun and Lawrence Free State a year ago and narrowly lost to Washburn Rural (49-42) and Bishop Carroll (34-30). Now, Akpan welcomes back loads of talent for a team that should be positioned to make a playoff push in 6A. Quarterback DaeOnte Mitchell is one of the top returning passers in all of Kansas and will distribute the football to an arsenal of offensive weapons in 1,500 yard rusher Rayvelle Leak, and a trio of talented receivers in MJ White, LT Robinson, and Ashton White. Mitchell and Leak will have four of five O-linemen back to work behind. The defense returns six starters led by senior linebacker/safety Dayontay Standifer. If the Aces can stay healthy and develop some depth look out come November.

2022 Record: 4-5 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Dominick Dingle (6th, 21-23) Assts.: Malik Jaradat, Isaiah Murdock, Brent Allan, Garrett Haskins, Todd Sacquitne, Marquavius Lewis, Corby Milleson, Jordan Abbott, Creighton Sanders, Alex Smith

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-3 Stack/Multiple Returning starters: Tavion Johnson, WR, Sr.; Jayven Martin, OL, Sr.; Alonzo Cabral, OL, Sr.; Pedro Nava, OL, Sr.; Jeremiah Yehudah, WR, Sr.; Cale Milleson, LB, Sr.; Avante Scales, DB, Sr.; Nate Campbell, LB, Sr.; Ashmar Anderson, DB, Sr.; Michael Smith, DB, Sr.; Dennis Carter, DB, Sr.; Malcolm Duckworth, DL, Sr.; Kieron Harrison, K/P, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Cale Milleson, 34 car., 164 yds., 2 TDs Passing: N/A Receiving: Tavion Johnson, 18 rec., 175 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Nate Campbell, 100 tkls. Sacks: Nate Campbell, 8.5 Ints.: Dennis Carter, 3 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “With all of the experience returning on defense, the Falcon offense is a different story. Offensively the Falcons must replace several three-year starters and 98 percent of the offensive production from a year ago. The offensive line will be the spot with the most experience as Pedro Nava, Alonzo Cabral, and Jayven Martin return as multi-year starters. Tavion Johnson looks to be the new starter at QB for the Falcons after playing WR for the past two seasons. With the 20-plus seniors and a strong sophomore class the Falcons look to compete for a GWAL title.”

Notes: An experienced defense will carry the Falcons early as coach Dominick Dingle looks to develop new weapons on offense to replace the two-headed monster of John Randle Jr., and D.J. Dingle. Nate Campbell and Cale Milleson return as two of the top linebackers in the Wichita City League while Avante Scales will lead an experienced secondary with four returning senior starters. Experience along the offensive line should help to ease Tavion Johnson’s transition from wide receiver to quarterback, while Jameson Holland could see a heavier load in the offensive backfield this fall.

Wichita South Wichita Southeast

2022 Record: 3-6 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Russ Wells (5th, 10-24) Assts.: Sean McDonald, Jason Jenkins, Kirk Westmoreland, Ben Hauser, Kyle Molina, Cameron Davis, Josh Morris, Jake Santos

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Ross Robinson, LB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Asa Berry, DE, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Andrew Deleon, OL, 5-11, 215, Sr.; Jaylen Fitzsimmons-Woods, CB, 5-9, 145, Sr.; Cyreone Henagan, DL, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Parker Hardgrave, OL, 6-7, 315, Jr.; Karlan Ransom, QB, 6-0, 165, Jr.; Caleb Maholmes, LB, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Ja’Marcus Webster, LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Ivan Teal, WR/ DB, 5-10, 155, Jr.; Antonio Carrion, OL/DL, 5-11, 240, So.; Rashawn Johnson, QB/DB, 5-9, 155, So.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Karlan Ransom, 737 yds., 6 TDs Passing: Karlan Ransom, 795 yds., 6 TDs Receiving: N/A Tackles: Caleb Maholmes, 76 tkls. Sacks: Jarion Campbell, 3 Ints.: Ivan Teal, 2 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We will return several starters and we expect them to take a step forward this year.”

Notes: The Titans struggled to score points and to keep people out of the end zone for the majority of a 1-5 start to last season, but there is reason for optimism this fall as 12 starters are back from a team that finished the year 2-1 and challenged a good Junction City team in the season finale, falling to the Blue Jays 34-18. Sixth-year coach Russ Wells will still have some teaching to do though, as half the returners are non-seniors, including junior quarterback Karlan Ransom, huge junior offensive lineman Parker Hardgrave, and talented junior linebackers Caleb Maholmes and Ja’Marcus Webster. Ransom will have three returning starters along the offensive line to work behind, but the offense did take a hit this offseason when top receiving target Kamren Wade (23 rec., 260 yds.) transferred to Wichita West. Junior athlete Ivan Teal showed off blazing speed at the Wichita Sharp Performance combine earlier this summer and appears poised for a breakout season.

2022 Record: 1-8 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Marcus Bagley (3rd, 1-19) Assts.: Curtis Smith, Zach Rathman, Dexter Hayes, Chris Hughes, Lewis Winfield, LaRide Conerly, Satori Robinson

Offense: Spread Pistol Defense: 4-3 Hybrid

Returning starters: Micah Fiscus, QB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Ronelle Slaughter, RB, 6-0, 185, Jr.; Quentin Webb, DE, 6-1, 204, Sr.; Elijah Dixon, LB, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Vernon Williams, SS, 5-11, 178, So.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Ronelle Slaughter, 750 yds., 9 TDs Passing: Micah Fiscus, 650 yds., 4 TDs Receiving: Dubbron Moore, 10 rec., 137 yds Tackles: Elijah Dixon, 43 tkls. Sacks: Quentin Webb, 3 Ints.: Dubbron Moore, Vernon Williams, Leonel Sweet, 1 ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goals are to compete from snap to whistle, down in and down out, and to win more games than we did the previous season. We want to focus on accountability, discipline, and execution.”

Notes: While the progress didn’t manifest in the win column – the Buffs won just one game after winless seasons the two years prior – Southeast made some strides last fall improving their scoring offense from 10 points a game to 12 and reducing their scoring D from 51 points a contest to 45. The Buffs were also more competitive on a game-to-game basis last fall losing close contests to Wichita West in Week 2 (30-12), Dodge City in Week 8 (42-23), and an overtime heartbreaker to Wichita South in Week 7 (30-29). The bad news? Much of the progress was attributed to a strong class of 2023 that included second team All-GWAL selections Tayten Edenfield (TE) and Javieon Carter (LB) and honorable mention selections Tylan Smith (WR), Elliott Merten (C), Marcus Johnson (P), Khalik Tomas (DT), and Chris Atkinson (FS). The good news? Junior running back Ronelle Slaughter and senior defensive end Quentin Webb give coach Marcus Bagley a pair of standouts in key roles on both sides of the ball. If the Buffs can stay healthy and develop along the offensive line then more progress could be in store.

Kansas Pregame Class 5a Preseason Rankings

Others: Goddard, Hutchinson, Liberal, Maize,

By Charles Chaney, Butler County Times-Gazette

It’s reload and repeat for Mill Valley heading into the 2023 season as they’re going for a historic fifth consecutive state championship in Class 5A. No one in the history of Class 5A has won four in a row, let alone five. The Jaguars are the dominant team of the past decade with six titles in eight seasons and quarterfinal and semifinal appearances the other two years.

While they’ll have to replace Hayden Jay at quarterback, Joel Applebee’s squad will have plenty of talent back on both sides of the ball.

In total, Applebee will welcome back eight returning starters on offense – including four offensive linemen – four on defense, and one on special teams.

Tristan Baker is the top returning rusher and receiver from a season ago (223 car., 1,437 yds., 20 TDs rushing, 11 rec., 153 yds., 2 TDs). He’ll provide a bonafide run-threat and a solid receiving target for the next in line at signal-caller.

Mill Valley will boast a returning kicker who made 7 of 10 field goals last season and averaged a touchback on 46 percent of his kickoffs in Kenten Laughman.

Last season, Mill Valley had the third best scoring offense in Class 5A (45.8 ppg.) and with four offensive linemen returning, they may keep that up once again. Gus Hawkins (K-State commit) will lead the front five.

Defensively, the Jags will be led by senior Truman Griffith and junior Jayden Woods up front. Griffith returns after getting six sacks last season and carries multiple DI offers heading into the year. Jayden Woods holds numerous power five offers, including Alabama and Penn State, after having 51 tackles and leading the team in tackles for loss last season.

It could be a big year for the Golden Eagles of BISHOP CARROLL as they bring back a plethora of experience from a squad that was upset by Hutch in the regional playoffs last season. They’ll be led by Jackson King, the Air Force commit will be one of the top quarterbacks regardless of classification in Kansas. He threw for almost 1,300 yards last season with 7 TDs and nearly ran for 1,000 yards and 15 TDs. They will return seven starters on offense and six on defense from last year’s seven-win season. King will have all his skill positions returning as well. Luke Holthusen, who is coming off a 300-meter hurdles state championship in track and field, will provide a talented receiving target outside, while, Thomas Gorges, who holds some instate offers, returns in the backfield after rushing for 505 yards and scoring nine TDs last season. Returning UNLV commit, Hank Purvis will provide a big body blocker up front.

Defensively, the secondary should be their bread and butter as they have three defensive backs returning this season. Carter Morris and Cash Ungles will carry the bulk of the front’s responsibilities this season.

DE SOTO returns after a run to the sectionals last season and the sixth consecutive season winning a regional championship

The nine-win season after losing many key players bodes well for the high expectations that come with consistent performance. Returning seven on offense and six on defense will help those expectations grow.

Offensively, the Wildcats will be led by returning quarterback, Carson Miller, and their run-dominated offense should be humming again. Last season, Miller ran for 1,152 yards and 16 TDs, while throwing for 473 yards and 6 TDs. His top receiving target from last season, Braden Griggs (14 rec., 216 yds., 1 TD) returns to help provide some honest defense alignments when he lines up outside.

Senior Alex Parks (33 rec., 459 yds., 3 TDs) adds another capable receiving threat. Three linemen who play both ways return as well. The Southwest defense will have at least 10 starters returning from last year’s team, including Jackson Ready. The senior linebacker will be on of the top returning LBs in the state with 82 tackles last season. Trey Thomas had seven INTs last season and Gage Ilges returns after five picks to round out what should be a formidable defense.

MAIZE has to replace Elite 11 quarterback Avery Johnson, but they have some key talent still returning. Power 5 slot receiver prospect, junior Bryson Hayes will return as one of the fastest receivers in the state (19 rec., 582 yds., 8 TDs). Defensively, Ayden Flores, who is a state champion wrestler, will lead the way after posting 64 tackles last season, with 11 for losses. He also forced two fumbles and recovered another.

Don’t discount MAIZE SOUTH in the top five discussion as they’ll return eight on the offensive side of the ball and nine on defense. The experience off a team who won four games last season could be propelled into a winning season behind junior QB Tate McNew. Arguably the top QB in the 2025 class, he threw for 2,240 yards and 18 TDs last season. He has a bevy of receivers back to target in seniors Sammy Dresie and Jeron Askren, junior Landen Gatto, and 6-6 senior transfer Darius Felton, a move-in from Wyoming, who holds multiple DI offers. The South receiving corps could be among the best in the state.

Linebacker Sean Gibson will highlight a defense that was suffocating last season, only allowing 14 points per game last fall. Only Mill Valley had a better defense, statistically, in Class 5A last season, and with Gibson returning, along with Power 5 defensive end prospect Charlie Woleben and the majority of the defensive backfield, the Wildcats should be once again stout on that side of the ball.

After making a magical run into sub-state last season, BLUE VALLEY SOUTHWEST should be one of the top teams to watch for in Class 5A this fall. The always tough Eastern Kansas League will provide a difficult schedule, but like many teams who play in this league, it would be tough to judge a school based off their regular season. Last season, BV Southwest went 4-1 against 5A opponents.

They return one of the top passing quarterbacks in the state in Dylan Dunn (196-300, 2,784 yds., 28 TDs). He also set a playoff record by throwing for eight touchdowns in the win over De Soto in the playoffs. Having that type of experience returning should be a nice boost for their spread offense.

Dunn is one of eight offensive players back from last year’s substate run. Tate Everad (39 rec., 639 yds., 8 TDs) returns, and is also one of the team’s top D-backs after had made three INTs,.

The KAPAUN Crusaders are hoping to return to the form that saw them narrowly lose to Maize in the 5A semifinals in 2021 after slipping to 5-5 last fall. They’ll be led by Air Force commit Omari Elias at running back. Elias has totaled nearly 5,000 yards rushing and nearly 60 total touchdowns the last two seasons. The majority of the offense returns, including starting quarterback Dylan Hamilton, and coach Weston Schartz has high expectations for this season.

After wholesale offensive changes paid dividends last fall GODDARD coach Tommy Beason hopes to return the Lions to the playoffs behind speedy running back Micah Johnson.

The HUTCHINSON Salthawks were a bit of a surprise last fall and while some speedy offensive weapons graduated Mike Vernon appears to have the pieces to continue winning.

LIBERAL should have their best team in years and could win the WAC behind the arm of quarterback J. Brooks Kappelmann and standout receiver Zayden Martinez.

SALINA CENTRAL welcomes back standout quarterback Gunnar Gross, a stable of wide receivers, and half of a very good offensive line, while pieces of every unit on defense return.

PITTSBURG returns the majority of their 7-4 team of a year ago for second-year head coach Josh Lattimer, the only question is whether their schedule can adequately prepare them for a brutal 5A East playoff field.

Charles Chaney is the sports editor for the Butler County Times-Gazette.

Andover

2022 Record: 3-6 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. II

Head Coach: Ken Dusenbury (4th year, 16-13; 8th overall, 57-24) Assts.: Taylor Counts, A.C. Poynter, Lelin George, Derek Base, Brian Yenor, Rick Lee, Zack Siegrist

Offense: Power Gun Defense: 3-3 Stack

Returning starters: Tate Hutchinson, DE, 6-1, 200, Jr.; Will Baker, LB, 6-4, 200, Jr.; Logan Warkentine, LB, 5-9, 175, Jr.; Kam Longacre, DB/QB, 6-2, 178, Sr.; Tanner Woolston, DB/RB, 5-11, 160, Jr.; Tristan Winfield, OL, 5-9, 200, Jr.; Ryan Kice, TE, 6-3, 215, Sr.; Vaiden Law, RB, Sr.; Noah Noyes, FB, 6-2, 200, Jr.; Trey Noonan, WR, 5-11, 160, Sr.; Anthony Sullivan, WR, 6-0, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Tanner Woolston, 604 yds., 4 TDs; Vaiden Law, 316 yds., 3 TDs Passing: N/A Receiving: N/A

Tackles: Logan Warkentine, 75 tkls.; Kam Longacre

67 tkls. Sacks: Logan Warkentine, 3 Ints.: Kam Longacre, Tanner Woolston, 1 INT ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We will be a young team, and an underdog most of the season. Many of our sophomores played last year due to injury and got valuable experience which will help us as the season progresses.”

Notes: The Trojans slipped to 3-6 last fall and graduated several key pieces from that squad including unanimous All-AVCTL II D-end BJ Redic, unanimous All-AVCTL II D-back Nik Pai, and second team O-lineman Brayden Harmon. Back are second team All-AVCTL II LB Logan Warkentine, honorable mention D-backs Kam Longacre and Tanner Woolston, and second team tight end Ryan Kice. The success of the Trojans this fall will hinge on growth of both lines and the continued development of a talented junior class. He’ll lean on experience in the offensive backfield and the back half of the defense while the pieces in the trenches come together.

De Soto

Emporia Goddard

2022

Record: 9-2 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Brian King (11th, 67-36) Assts.: Joel Thaemert, Mark Gastelum, Tod Hessong, Lynn Hoffman, Tom Byers, Jamel Townsend, Erik Bell, Andrew Pinnell, Dale Hurt, Javier Vieyra, Brett Hothan

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Carson Miller, QB, 6-0, 150, Sr.; Bennett Hutchison, RB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Jayden Lang, RB, 6-0, 170, Jr.; Braden Griggs, RB/TE, 5-11, 170, Sr.; Amarion Green, RB, 5-9, 173, Sr.; Jack Richards, OL, 6-1, 250, Sr.; Seth Goins, OL, 6-6, 355, Jr.; Charlie Woleben, DL, 6-5, 200, Jr.; Sean Gibson, LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Baylor Bell, LB, 6-1, 182, Sr.; Charlie Tadlock, DB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Cole Heitmann, DB, 6-0, 162, Sr.; Davis Barr, DB, 6-3, 170, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Carson Miller, 129 car., 1,152 yds., 16 TDs Passing: Carson Miller, 28-59, 473 yds., 6 TDs Receiving: Braden Griggs, 14 rec., 216 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Sean Gibson, 59 tkls. Sacks: Charlie Woleben, 6 Ints.: Cole Heitmann, 3 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Expectations were tempered entering the 2022 season after graduating so many senior starters. However, the hard work and determination of our kids and the leadership of our senior class allowed us to complete an undefeated UKC season and to win our sixth consecutive Regional Championship. We are very excited about the talent and leadership we return for the 2023 season! We bring back seven starters on offense, six on defense, as well as our punter and returners.”

Notes: Coach Brian King and staff have built De Soto into a consistent 5A winner, and with the return of loads of talent from a 9-2 squad of a year ago the Wildcats are looking to make a deep playoff run this fall.

GODDARD-EISENHOWER GREAT BEND

2022 Record: 3-6 / Ark Valley-Chisholm

Trail, Div. II

Head Coach: Darrin Fisher (5th, 16-20) Assistants: Will Bergkamp, Matt Busby, Lance Francis, Enrique Espinoza, Kris Houseberg, Jacob Thomas, Brice Hunter, Jeran Trotter, Thomas Waterman

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3

Returning starters: Nate Hamm, OL, 6-3, 240, Sr.; Tycen Biering, OL, 6-4, 280, Sr.; Noah Packard, OL, 6-2, 218, Sr.; Carter Pabst, WR, 6-1, 170, Jr.; Lucas Dickman, RB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Travis Nicholson, DL, 6-1, 250, Jr.; Makai Tagatac, DL, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Hunter Houser, DL, 6-2, 185, Sr.; Max Brown, LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.; Nick Giffin, LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Mac McDonald, CB, 5-10, 160, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Lucas Dickman, 134 car., 644 yds., 6

TDs Passing: Lucas Dickman, 5-7, 128 yds., 1 TD

Receiving: Carter Pabst, 27 rec., 496 yds., 6 TDs

Tackles: Tyler Erwin, 60 tkls. Sacks: Hunter Houser, 5 Ints.: Mac McDonald, 3

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We graduated a very strong senior class, (but) are returning many guys with varsity experience including a strong offensive line and running back. We expect many different guys to carry the ball including tailback Lucas Dickman. The defense will be anchored by AllLeague honorees Travis Nicholson, Makai Tagatac, and Max Brown. In the secondary, senior leader Mac McDonald will take charge.”

Notes: Eisenhower’s 3-6 record in 2022 was so close to above .500 with five of the six losses by seven points or less, and four by four points or less. This year, Derek Morgan will take the reins at QB from graduated DI baseball player Tyner Horn and he’ll have speedy running back Lucas Dickman to handoff to and receiver Carter Pabst to target through the air. An experienced defensive front will lead the way as a young secondary matures.

2022 Record: 7-3 / Western Athletic Conference

Head Coach: Erin Beck (8th year, 35-33) Assts.: Jeff Lutt, Bill Maddy, Brandon Wells, Bryce Wells Alex Birney, Jayce Brack, Matt Barton, Kyle Kriegh, Brock Blessing

Offense: Power Spread Defense: 3-4/Multiple

Returning starters: Cody Miller, RB, 5-7, 155, Sr.; Matthew Johnson, OL/LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Colton Brack, TE/LB, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Dee’Onn Jones, DE, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Maddox Spray, WR/DB, 6-2, 165, Sr.; Cooper Liles, OLB, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Kaiden Hoffman, DB, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Aidan Davidson, OL/DL, 5-10, 190, Jr.; Brody Schnoebelen, DL, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Trent Kern, OL/LB, 6-1, 200, So.; Ian Premer, WR/DB, 6-4, 185, So.; Alex Galindo, K, 5-10, 155, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Cody Miller, 186 car., 979 yds., 14 TDs Passing: N/A Receiving: Cody Miller, 22 rec., 258 yds. Tackles: Matthew Johnson, 73 tkls. Sacks: Cooper Liles, 1 Ints.: Maddox Spray, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We graduated a solid group of seniors that were key for our program both on and off the field. We will need several guys to step into some large holes. One of our biggest question marks is filling the void left by two-year starting quarterback Cayden Scheuerman.”

Notes: GB lost 19 in a row prior to Week 3 of the 2022 season and snapped the streak with a 31-6 win over perennial 4A power Buhler, launching a seven-game win streak in the process. The Panthers just missed a regional playoff win with a 40-35 loss to Salina Central, finishing the year at 7-3. Eighth-year coach Erin Beck will miss the graduation of QB Cayden Scheuerman, receiver Braylon Council, and linebacker Mathew Moeder, but six All-WAC players return to continue the rebuild and sophomores Trenton Kern and Ian Premer will be counted on for more production after starting as freshmen.

2022 Record: 2-8 / Centennial League

Head Coach: Kaden Glinsmann (1st) Assts.: Jay Adkins, Parker Bass, Randy Wells, Zachary Dreher, Chris Logan, Lee Baldwin, Mike Sauer, Taylor Tatman, Hazeez Rafiu

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2

Returning starters: Robert Allaman-Wesley, OL/DL, 6-4, 245, Jr.; Thai Iverson, OL/DL, 5-5, 265, Sr.; Koby Le, OL/DL, 6-1, 215, Jr.; Cooper Rech, WR/DB, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Sheldon Stewart, QB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Aiden Ewing, OL, 5-9, 195, Sr.; Alex Allemang, K, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Enrique Rios, DE, 5-11, 175, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Sheldon Stewart, 46 car., 196 yds., 2 TDs

Passing: Sheldon Stewart, 89-146, 914 yds., 7 TDs

Receiving: Cooper Rech, 14 rec., 233 yds., 3 TDs

Tackles: Enrique Rios, 38 tkls. Sacks: Enrique Rios, 1 Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “There may be some growing pains as the team adjusts to our new scheme, but there is a sense of optimism with the players and staff. We have emphasized the importance of discipline, attention to detail, and hard work.”

Notes: The Spartans opened the season on a high note with a 25-22 overtime victory over the Pittsburg Purple Dragons, but an eight-game losing streak in which the EHS defense allowed at least 34 points a contest followed. The team ended the season on a relative high note though, beating a much-improved Highland Park team 83-64 in Week 9 to earn a spot in the regional playoff round before falling to Blue Valley Southwest, 56-20. After just two full seasons Keaton Tuttle makes way for new head coach Kaden Glinsmann. The graduation of Bobby Trujillo and Parker Leeds leaves a couple of glaring holes to fill, but senior QB Sheldon Stewart is back to lead the offense and junior Koby Le is one to watch on D.

2022 Record: 5-4 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. II

Head Coach: Tommy Beason (6th, 26-25) Assts.: Curtis Albin, Dirk Ankerholz, Jason Nichols, Blake Myers, Shaheem Sanders, Joel Condray, AJ Vang, Colton Koenigs

Offense: Wishbone Defense: 3-3-5

Returning starters: Ashton Sell, DB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Micah Johnson, RB, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Lane Nelson, LB, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Jake Jasnoski, TE, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Pablo Martinez, DL, 5-8, 275, Sr.; Matrix Eames, DL, 6-3, 255, Sr.; Tyson Wallace, LB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Mason Healy, RB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Lukas Bishop, DL, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Gage Bowker, LB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Landon Durbin, LB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Cayman Staley, OL, 5-10, 270, Sr.; Brock Borin, OL, 6-3, 210, Sr.; Jacob Esparza OL, 5-9, 265, Sr.; Mason Oliver, OL, 5-9, 225, Sr.; Blake Read, TE, 6-0, 185, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Micah Johnson, 136 car., 927 yds., 10 TDs Passing: Ashton Sell, 26-49, 431 yds., 10 TDs Receiving: Mason Healy, 12 rec., 232 yds., 4 TDs Tackles: Lane Nelson, 80 tkls. Sacks: Lane Nelson, Preston Hagel, 2 ea. Ints.: Landon Kohlhorst, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “The Lions are returning their largest senior class in over a decade and will rely heavily on players that were key in their 2022 turnaround. The Lions finished a competitive 5-4 record, but the players and coaches believe their best football is in front of them.”

Notes: Tommy Beason made wholesale changes following a winless 2021 switching the offense from the Spread to the Wishbone and the D from a 3-4 to a 3-3-5. The changes pushed the Lions back above .500 (5-4) and the losses were all by 14 points or less, with three by seven or less. Speedy RB Micah Johnson is back to carry much of the load on offense while the top four tacklers – Lane Nelson, Tyson Wallace, Preston Hagel, Ashton Sell – return on D.

Hays Hutchinson

2022 Record: 10-2 / Western Athletic Conference

Head Coach: Tony Crough (6th year, 30-20; 9th overall, 46-33) Assts: Cole Cherryholmes, Kip Keeley, Kyle Hadley, Peyton Harris, Hayden Kruetzer, Nathan Hale, Vinny Walker, Sean Dreiling, Irick McDonald, Jake Dechant

Offense: Spread/Multiple Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Kaiden Bunger, OL, 5-10, 245, Sr.; Will Linenberger, OL, 6-0, 270, Sr.; Malik Bah, RB, 5-8, 185, Sr.; Jonathan Cano, WR, 5-10, 165, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Malik Bah, 155 car., 1,633 yds., 22 TDs Passing: Carter Graham, 11-21, 97 yds. Receiving: Malik Bah, 10 rec., 206 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Derek Quach, 44 tkls. Sacks: Derek Quach, 1 Ints.: Dalton Meyers, 1 INT

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “This team will be looking for an identity early against a front loaded schedule and hopefully find their stride late in the season. Some of the youth being asked to fill starter roles got plenty of varsity action in blowout games last season. Others were not suited out yet or even did not play last season.”

Notes: Tony Crough has engineered the most successful four-year stretch in Hays High football history culminating with a 5A semifinal berth and best ever 10-win season a year ago. The Indians’ only two losses last season were to eventual 6A champion Manhattan and 5A runner-up Maize. Now, Crough has his biggest challenge since taking over the program in 2018 after graduating 12 All-WAC selections. Crough welcomes back just four starters, but fortunately one of those is senior running back Malik Bah, who has rushed for over 2,200 total yards and 29 TDs the past two seasons. The D will be rebuilt this season for a squad with a tough first three weeks that includes 6A powers Junction City and Manhattan sandwiched around rival Great Bend.

2022 Record: 8-3 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. I

Head Coach: Mike Vernon (6th year, 24-24; 11th overall, 53-43) Assts.: Zach Burkhart, Jeremy Garcia, Sean Harper, Mace Krol, Dalton Luce, Marcus Moeder, Sean Bueford, Brayden Wells, Dylan Graves, Justin Spencer, Ben Patterson, Scott Yantes

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Daylee VanSyckle, OT, 6-3, 233, Sr.; Kaleb Cape, OG, 6-2, 241, Jr.; Camden Jenson, C, 5-10, 282, Sr.; Malik Brown, OG, 5-11, 231, Sr.; Jayden McQueen, OT, 6-2, 238, Sr.; Zion Burgess, RB, 5-10, 174, Sr.; Devon Spiller, RB, 5-9, 166, Sr.; Kade Smith, RB, 5-9, 172, Jr.; Mason Jones, DL, 5-11, 236, Sr.; Kevin Wilson, LB, 5-10, 178, Jr.; Morgan Carter, LB, 6-0, 176, Jr.; Daniel Hernandez, DB, 5-9, 153, Sr.; Jax Heneha, SS, 5-9, 146, Sr.; Terrell King, FS, 5-10, 166, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Zion Burgess, 170 car., 898 yds., 7 TDs Passing: N/A Receiving: Devon Spiller, 6 rec., 20 yds. Tackles: Terrell King, 107 tkls. Sacks: Mason Jones, 5 Ints.: Jax Heneha, 4

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “As I’ve said before, we have a lot of returning starters that played some quality football last year. We have to take the next step as a program this year though. We should be able to move the ball down the field with the veteran offensive line. We have explosive athletes at running back returning who can make big plays. What will take us from a good to great will be the quarterback play. If we get them playing at a high level the sky’s the limit.”

Notes: The Salthawks were arguably the third best team in 5A at the end of last season, falling twice to Maize – the second time by a touchdown in the state quarterfinals – with the only other loss by a TD to 6A power Derby. Fourteen returning starters will try to help the Salthawks finish in the top two this season.

KC-JC HARMON

2022 Record: 0-8 / Meadowlark Conference

Head Coach: Keith O’Neal (2nd year, 0-8) Assts.: Alvis Coy, Steven May, Michael Carpenter, James Cooper, David Hughes, Derrick Bowen

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Jamarcus Lane, WR, 5-7, 160, Sr.; Lucas Nelson, LB, 5-9, 220, Sr.; Gabriel Hernandez, SS, 6-2, 180, Sr.; Gabriel Rodriguez, WR/CB, 6-0, 170, Sr.; Julian Bush, OL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Ivan Hernandez, DE, 6-2, 230, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: N/A Passing: Lucas Nelson, 3-17, 48 yds. Receiving: N/A Tackles: Gabriel Rodriguez, 14 tkls. Sacks: Ivan Hernandez, 1 Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goals are) to continue building the program from the ground up, and to win the Meadowlark League title.”

Notes: No way to sugar coat it, the Hawks struggled mightily a season ago. Not only did they go winless, they scored just one touchdown all season and allowed at least 41 points in every contest, but you won’t find second-year head coach Keith O’Neal feeling sorry for himself or his squad. O’Neal’s Twitter account, @CoachO223, is one of the most positive out there among Kansas high school football coaches. His mantra of #NOXMENTALITY is focused on not making excuses, but rather focusing on outcomes. That emphasis has led to increased participation in summer workouts and increased enthusiasm heading into 2023. Fortunately for O’Neal he does have a few experienced pieces to continue to build around, led by a pair of anchors up front in senior offensive lineman Julian Bush and senior defensive end Ivan Hernandez. The duo provides the type of solid building blocks O’Neal needs to help the Hawks take the next step.

KC-SUMNER ACADEMY

2022 Record: 7-3 / Meadowlark Conference

Head Coach: Andrew Wright (9th year, 29-33)

Assts.: Jeremy Todd, Geoff Wright, Jourdaine Smallwood, Steve Williams Jr., Tyler Howell, Michael Platt

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Nicholas Flores, OL/DL, 6-2, 225, Sr.; Deavon McWashington, RB/LB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Alec Tyler, OL/DL, 6-1, 210, Sr.; Marco Contreras, WR/SS, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Dellman Allen, WR/FS, 5-9, 160, Sr.; Josue Copto, OL/DL, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Jayden Gordon, WR/LB, 6-0, 175, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Deavon McWashington, 71 car., 400 yds., 2 TDs Passing: Jayden Gordon, 1-1, 3 yds. Receiving: Jayden Gordon, 19 rec., 245 yds., 4 TDs Tackles: Deavon McWashington, 32 tkls. Sacks: Alec Tyler, 1 Ints.: Jayden Gordon, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our keys to success include being healthy, and learning on the fly, as this will likely be our youngest team during my tenure at Sumner Academy. Having the seniors lead by example and show the younger players how to compete on the varsity level will help us improve daily and even weekly.”

Notes: The Sabres enjoyed their best season since a 9-2 finish in 2010, but Andrew Wright enters his ninth year as head coach – just his eighth season thanks to COVID in 2020 – with a number of question marks. The biggest is how to replace the graduated production of Antonio Harrison, the program’s all-time leader in single season rushing yards, single season TDs, career rushing yards and career TDs. The cupboard is not bare though, athletes Deavon McWashington and Jayden Gordon are versatile weapons and All-Conference lineman Nicholas Flores is back to anchor the lines.

Lansing Leavenworth

2022 Record: 3-6 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Rick Pollard (2nd year, 3-6; 6th overall, 24-25) Assts.: James Thompson, Tom Cretors, Blake Porter

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Dalton Jorgensen, QB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Caden Howell, WR/DB, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Tyron Butler Jr., RB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Ryan French, TE, 6-2, 220, Sr.; Lexton Grafke, WR, 5-10, 155, Sr.; Luciano Riggi, LB, 5-10, 215, Sr.; Davion Winton, DB, 5-9, 180, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Tyrone Butler Jr., 119 car., 706 yds., 5 TDs Passing: Dalton Jorgensen, 122-264, 2,048 yds., 24 TDs Receiving: Lexton Grafke, 56 rec., 1,148 yds., 17 TDs Tackles: Luciano Riggi, 67 tkls. Sacks: Ayden Ellington, 1 Ints.: Davion Winton, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goal, as always, is to improve everyday, which will allow us to play deep into November. Our success will be based on how much we come together as a team.”

Notes: The Lions were 3-6 in year one under former Piper head coach Rick Pollard, but outside of a 65-0 drubbing by eventual 6A champion Manhattan, Lansing held their own against the toughest teams in the UKC. LHS suffered one score losses to De Soto in Week 1, Basehor-Linwood in Week 6, and Shawnee Heights in Week 9, a team that doubled up the Lions on the scoreboard in Week 2, 46-23. Pollard welcomes back an experienced offensive group with a returning 2,000-yard passer in Dalton Jorgensen, returning 1,000-yard receiver in Lexton Grafke, and returning 700-yard rusher in Tyrone Butler Jr. The defense, however, could take some lumps early after graduating UKC Defensive POY Jamale Williams, All-UKC DB Adrian Spencer, and Mid America Nazarene linebacker signee Christian Ramirez. All-UKC LB Luciano Riggi will lead the D.

2022 Record: 3-6 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Sean Sachen (5th year, 15-20; 13th overall, 29-80) Assts.: Steve Short, Pat McCollim, Justin Bode, RJ Suttles, Jason Barnes, Anthony Payton, Chris Ray, Terry Jordan

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Emmanuel Benson, DE, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Jaden Daniel, WR.; Zach Eagle, C, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Nolan Norburto, OL, 6-0, 235, Sr.; Winston Rhym, OLB, 5-6, 165, Sr.; Brett Smith, OLB.; Xavier Strickland, RB, 6-0, Sr.; Jackson Worth, OL, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Anthony Brantley, DL, 5-11. 290, Jr.; Elijah Elder, OL.; J’Sean Pippins, WR, 6-0, 160, Jr.; Davon Slaughter, DB, 5-7, 150, Jr.; Dakari Wake, DB, 6-0, 175, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Xavier Strickland, 64 car., 535 yds, 6 TDs Passing: Jackson Harding, 4-11, 48 yds. Receiving: Xavier Strickland, 12 rec., 91 yds. Tackles: Winston Rhym, 53 tkls. Sacks: Winston Rhym, Jamarcus Crawford, 3 ea. Ints.: Jamarcus Crawford, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We want to improve in our run game, and improve our defense. Our lines were very young last year, we will need the young starters to grow and improve to help us to control the line of scrimmage.”

Notes: Leavenworth went 3-6 last fall, but were uber-competitive in three of the six losses, dropping games with league-rivals Lansing (34-26) and Basehor-Linwood (35-31), and quality opponent Spring Hill (26-21), all by just one score. Job one for fifth-year Pioneer coach Sean Sachen this fall is replacing the lost production of United Kansas Conference Offensive Player of the Year Eddie McLaughlin, an all-around athletic dual-threat quarterback who signed with Washburn to play wide receiver. Developing depth on the offensive and defensive fronts is key to the Pioneers avoiding a dropoff this season.

KC-TURNER

2022 Record: 0-9 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Rick Byers (3rd year, 1-17; 28th overall, 193-109) Assts.: Shelby Steffen, Clayton Neas, Beau Brecheisen, Johnathan Taylor-Heath, Jesse Smallwood, Michael Levy

Offense: Pro I Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: JaRon Brown, WR/CB, 6-3, 170, Sr., Diego Castillo, WR/FS, 5-11, 180, Sr., Zeb Hassler, LB/TE, 6-1, 170, Sr., Darnell Hamilton, LB/ TE, 6-0, 185, Sr., Leo Tavares, OL/DL, 6-3, 275, Sr., TiVaughn Clark WR/FS, 6-0, 165, Sr., Aaron, Enamorado, LB, 6-0, 195, Sr.; Erickson George RB/ FS, 5-9,160, Jr., Edgar Castillo, C/DT, 6-0, 210, Jr., Josue Castillo, QB/FS, 5-10, 155, So.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Erickson George, 36 car., 86 yds., 1 TD Passing: Josue Castillo, 6-28, 68 yds., 2 TDs Receiving: JaRon Brown, 2 rec., 85 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: N/A Sacks: N/A Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goals are to) continue to improve create more depth on the team. Numbers have been up so we want to continue to grow the program.”

Notes: Coach Rick Byers ended a 23-game losing streak for the Golden Bears in Week 3 of 2021, but a new streak started through the final six weeks of that season and continued throughout the entirety of 2022. Now at 15 straight losses, Byers will rely on increased numbers and 10 returning starters to get back into the win column this season. The Bears will look to improve on both sides of the ball after scoring one touchdown or less in eight of nine games last fall while allowing at least 49 points in seven contests. Senior wide receiver and defensive back JaRon Brown returns after taking his only two receptions to the end zone and earning honorable mention All-UKC recognition a year ago.

KC-WASHINGTON

2022 Record: 3-6 / Meadowlark Conference

Camron Smith (5th year, 12-14) Assts.: Alfredo Bahena, Derek Jones, Myron Thomas, Clifton McFadden, Kenneth Powell

Offense: Pro Style Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Ja’Quarey Williams, QB, Sr., Amarion Womack, WR/DB, Sr., Antione Williams, S, Sr., Xavyer Powell, WR/LB, Sr., Michael Lee, DE, Sr., Gary Leaper, LB, Sr., Shannon Kelly, OL, Sr., Devan Harris, OL, Sr., Xavier Groves, DE, Jr., Ryan Edwards, OL, Jr., Roman Couch, RB, Jr., Shon Williams LB, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Amarion Womack, 15 car., 224 yds., 2 TDs; Ja’Quarey Williams, 38 car., 198 yds. Passing: Ja’Quarey Williams, 52-110, 692 yds., 9 TDs

Receiving: Amarion Womack, 20 rec., 309 yds., 5 TDs Tackles: Xavyer Powell, 59 tkls. Sacks: Michael Lee, 4 Ints.: Xavyer Powell, Amarion Womack, 1 ea. Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our goal is to win our conference, and the first playoff game in Washington football history. Our main key to focus on this year will be consistency.”

Notes: The Wildcats took some lumps outside of conference play last fall, but finished fourth in the first year in the new seven-team Meadowlark Conference and gave conference runner-up Highland Park a run for their money in a Week 8 shootout, 62-48. Coach Camron Smith welcomes back some key pieces to challenge for a league title this season including AllMeadowlark honorable mention senior quarterback Ja’Quarey Williams, second team All-Conference receiver Amarion Womack, and three experienced O-linemen. The defense returns six starters including second team All-Meadowlark linebacker Xavyer Powell, who also provides another target for Williams in the passing game.

Liberal Maize

2022 Record: 3-6 / Western Athletic Conference

Head Coach: Bryan Luetters (2nd year, 3-6; 3rd overall, 16-6) Assts.: Trace Haskell, Nick Zimmerman, Lawson Luetters, Wyatt Seidl, Travis Martinez, Eric Olmstead, Trace Ott, Eli Salmans

Offense: Multiple Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: J. Brooks Kappelmann, QB, 6-3, 205, Sr.; Zayden Martinez, WR, 6-3, 205, Sr.; James Fieser, WR, 6-3, 175, So.; Hudson Rice, OL/DT, 6-1, 275, Jr.; Peyton Morlen, OL, 6-0, 255, Sr.; Marcus Tilford, OL, 5-11, 265, Sr.; Gianni Calvillo, OL; Erek Lira, TE/DE, 6-1, 205, Sr.; Xavier Tafoya, DE, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Aidan Schwindt, CB, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Alex Schwindt, CB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Ivan Moreno, LB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Ayden Juarez, LB, 5-10, 220, Jr.; Tyren Holmes, DT, 6-0, 330, Jr.; Adan Mata, SS, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Adan Amador, FS, 6-1, 185, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: J. Brooks Kappelmann, 63 car., 231 yds., 2 TDs Passing: J. Brooks Kappelmann, 91-172, 1,460 yds., 15 TDs Receiving: Zayden Martinez, 28 rec., 611 yds., 10 TDs Tackles: Ivan Moreno, 62 tkls. Sacks: Zayden Martinez, 2 Ints.: Adan Amador, 3 Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We enter Year 2 with 18 returning starters and 101 young men out for football. We have kids buying into the program and the weight room.”

Notes: The once dominant power hasn’t made the playoffs in 18 years, but coach Bryan Luetters enters his second season at LHS with tremendous excitement thanks to the return of 15 total starters from a team that posted three dominant victories last fall and was competitive in all but two losses. An experienced O-line will block for All-WAC QB J. Brooks Kappelmann who welcomes back classmate and fellow all-leaguer Zayden Martinez, a 6-3 wide receiver with All-State aspirations. The defense will see 10 spots filled by returning starters. That experience should help LHS contend in the WAC.

2022 Record: 12-1 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. I

Head Coach: Gary Guzman (13th year, 87-41; 32nd overall, 187-128) Assts.: Brent Andra, Rob Helm, Rocky Helm, Victor Mercado, JJ Milanovich, Fred Rosas, Brett Soft, Spencer Baalman, Hayden Hudson, Aaron Johnson, Wayde Watkins

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Cole Chalashtari, OL, 6-5, 274, Sr.; Jonathan Gould, OL, 6-3, 220, Jr.; Bryson Hayes, WR, 6-0, 175, Jr.; Jaeden Martin, WR, 6-1, 178, Sr.; David Coffey, DL, 6-2, 196, Sr.; CJ Felder, DB, 5-10, 162, Sr.; Ayden Flores, LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Christian Hanson, LB, 6-0, 220, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Drew Kemp, 8 car., 100 yds., 1 TD Passing: Drew Kemp, 1-4, 17 yds. Receiving: Bryson Hayes, 19 rec., 582 yds., 8 TDs; Jaeden Martin, 30 rec., 420 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Ayden Flores, 64 tkls. Sacks: Christian Hanson, 4 Ints.: CJ Felder, 4

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We need to experience early success and build on it every week. We also have to execute, play fast, play smart, and be aggressive in all phases of the game. We have some good young players with great potential. We hope to advance as far as possible in the playoffs.”

Notes: Maize could have a pair of 5A championship trophies in their case from the past two seasons, if not for the dynastic run of Mill Valley. After back-toback 28-14 title game losses to the Jags all veteran coach Gary Guzman has to do this fall is replace one of the all-time great QBs in Kansas history (Avery Johnson), a power five wide receiver who was also a record-breaking sprinter (Bryce Cohoon), a multiseason 1,000-yard rusher (Daeshaun Carter), an AllState defensive lineman (Caden Miranda)and seven of the top nine tacklers. The new QB will welcome a couple quality linemen back in protection and blazing fast DI receiver prospect Bryson Hayes to target, while the D gets back a pair of LBs in Ayden Flores (64 tkls.) and Christian Hanson (61 tkls.). Senior receiver Jaeden Martin provides another excellent option in the passing game and top defensive back CJ Felder returns to roam the secondary after grabbing four interceptions a season ago. The offense will also miss sophomore QB Jaylen Mason – the team’s fourth leading rusher last fall – who transferred to Wichita Northwest in the offseason.

Maize

2022 Record: 4-5 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. I

Head Coach: Brent Pfeifer (14th, 95-48) Assistants: Tom O’Connor, Jeremy Scheufler, Shane Harden, Andy Curtis, Alan Collier, Dane McDonald, Reece Petty, Mitch Butterfield, Aaron Finck, Rick Craig

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Tate McNew, QB, 6-2, 185, Jr.; Jeron Askren, WR/TE, 6-3, 185, Sr.; Sammy Dresie, WR, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Landen Gatto, WR, 6-4, 160, Jr.; Braxton Bigley, RB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Peyton Smith, OL, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Tristan Gronlie, OL, 6-4, 230, Sr.; Derrick Junk, OL, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Brady Rapp, LB, 6-0, 190, Sr.; Maddox Welch, LB, 5-9, 165, Sr.; Trent Luce, LB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Dalton Meese, DL, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Hunter Higgins, DL, 6-4, 215, So.; Xander Dossey, DL, 5-11, 195, Sr.; Xander Brungardt, DB, Jr.; Easton Brown, DB, 6-0, 155, Sr.; Christian McDonald, DB, 5-9, 150, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Braxton Bigley, 171 car., 729 yds., 12 TDs

Passing: Tate McNew, 185-316, 2,240 yds., 18 TDs

Receiving: Sammy Dresie, 69 rec., 1,063 yds., 9 TDs

Tackles: Brady Rapp, 95 tkls. Sacks: Hunter Higgins, 4 Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “With the return of some key players from last year’s team, we hope to build on that experience and improve our mental and physical toughness.”

Notes: The Mavericks should have one of the most exciting offenses in Kansas this year thanks to the return of strong-armed junior quarterback Tate McNew and a loaded receiving corps that includes seniors Sammy Dresie and Jeron Askren, junior Landen Gatto, and 6-6 senior transfer Darius Felton, a move-in from Wyoming. The entire quintet stands at least 6-2 and four of the five hold at least DII offers. Senior Brady Rapp is back to lead the D.

2022 Record: 3-6 / Ark Valley Chisholm Trail, Div. I

Head Coach: Greg Slade (2nd year, 3-6) Assistants: Ray Boese, Tad Remsberg, Cris Fox, Joe Winfield, Evan Gilbert, Fred Schmidt, James Pfannenstiel, Dan Dawdy

Offense: Pro Style Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Nick Ruth, OT, 6-5, 260, Sr.; James Hulse, RB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Colby Gomez, QB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Dellen Claassen, WR, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Jarrett Schmidt, OT, Sr.; Justin Zerger, LB, Sr.; Landon Pfannenstiel, LB, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Jackson Marlar, DL, 6-3, 280, Sr.; Logan Buchanan, DL, Sr.; Keon Edwards, LB, 5-11, 180, Sr.; Titan Claussen, FS, Sr.; Niko Ramos, SS, 5-9, 170, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: James Hulse, 21 car., 126 yds. 3 TDs

Passing: Colby Gomez, 40-62, 542 yds., 2 TDs

Receiving: Dellen Claassen, 21 rec., 157 yds.

Tackles: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are very optimistic about this season. Being the second year at Newton, we have had good numbers this summer. Our seniors have been doing a great job of leading, with the underclassmen following their lead. We have been working very hard to be prepared for the start of the season.”

Notes: The final record does not tell the whole story of the Newton Railers in the first year under Greg Slade. While the Railers won just three games they were very competitive in five of six losses including one-score losses to Valley Center (21-17) and Hutchinson (32-27) and competitive losses to state powers Derby (49-20) and Bishop Carroll (38-17) in the final two weeks of the season. Slade will rely on a powerful group of interior linemen this fall, including big seniors Nick Ruth and Jackson Marlar, and talented QB Colby Gomez will drive the offense.

2022 Record: 6-6 / Eastern Kansas League

Head Coach: Anthony Orrick (9th, 30-52) Assistants: Brandon Hawks, Brett Becker, Justin Barlett, Dustin Barnes, Ken Braden, Tanner Allin, Rich Troxel, Tyler Pierce, TJ Taylor, Colin Settle

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-3 Stack

Returning starters: Dylan Dunn, QB, Sr.; Alex Parks, WR, Sr.; Emmitt Peters, WR/DB, Sr.; Tate Everard, WR/DB, Sr.; Gage Ilges, WR/DB, Sr.; Trey Thomas, DB, Sr.; Landon Christiansen, SS, Sr.; Brent Gillis, OL/DL, Sr.; Jason Strickland, OL/DL, Sr.; Jackson Ready, LB, Sr.; Gavin Grant, LB, Sr.; Ryan Specht, LB, Jr.; Will Morgan, OL/DL Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Quinn Lemons, 20 car., 68 yds. Passing: Dylan Dunn, 196-320, 2,784 yds., 28 TDs Receiving: Tate Everad, 39 rec., 639 yds., 8 TDs Tackles: Jackson Ready, 82 tkls. Sacks: Brent Gillis, 3 Ints.: Trey Thomas, 7

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “After a record breaking season in 2022 we are prepping for another long 5A playoff run this season. Several returning seniors have a ton of varsity playing experience and will be key to our success. We look to continue with our recent playoff performances, four regional championships in a row and the first Sectional Championship in school history. Expectations are high to take our program farther than it has ever gone.”

Notes: With 13 returning starters, including multiple two-way players, the Timberwolves enter the 2023 season with much anticipation. Senior Dylan Dunn is one of the state’s top quarterbacks and he welcomes back his entire receiving corps. Senior Trey Thomas returns to lead and experienced defensive backfield, while senior Jackson Ready will lead an experienced linebacking corps.

2022 Record: 7-4 / Independent

Head Coach: Josh Lattimer (2nd, 7-4) Assts.: Matt Butler, Matt Vaughn, Bob Kimzey, Joe Kafka, A.J. Terry, Tom Nickelson, Kip Whiteley, Wes Slavens

Offense: Flexbone Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Noah Rogers, OL/DL, 6-1, 270, Sr.; Ayden Davis, OL/DL, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Nate Mitchell, OL/DL, 5-11, 205, Jr.; TJ Wesley, OL/DL, 6-2, 205, Jr.; Webb Fern, QB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Wyatt Rink, RB, 5-7, 165, Sr.; Grant O’Doherty, RB/DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Conner Proffitt, RB/DB, 5-9, 170, Jr.; Beau Pasteur, WB/DB, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Stone Peery, RB/LB, 5-9, 205, Jr.; Gabe Kimzey, RB/LB, 5-10, 200, Jr.; Carsen Nickelson, WR/DB, 5-11, 165, Jr.; Maverick Caswell, RB/LB, 5-8, 145, Sr.; Parker Johnson, WR/DB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Luis Cancinos, OL/DL, 5-11, 225, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Wyatt Rink, 85 car., 545 yds., 5 TDs Passing: Webb Fern, 25-46, 327 yds., 7 TDs Receiving: Grant O’Doherty, 8 rec,, 142 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Gabe Kimzey, 22 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Beau Pasteur, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “(Our goal is) to give our best effort until the clock reads 00:00. (We want to) play for our teammates, families, community and make the past players of the program proud. Wearing the purple is an extremely high privilege.”

Notes: After a pair of tough losses to open Josh Lattimer’s tenure as Purple Dragon head coach last fall his Pittsburg team won seven of their final eight games before running into state powerhouse Mill Valley in the quarterfinals to close the year 7-4. Now in year two, Lattimer welcomes back 15 players with starting experience and should be favorites in the majority of their regular season contests.

SALINA CENTRAL SALINA SOUTH SHAWNEE-MILL VALLEY SPRING HILL

2022 Record: 8-3 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. II

Head Coach: Mark Sandbo (6th year, 28-21)

Assts.: Tad Remy, Mark Vaughn, Derryl Hill, Brian Kavanagh, Tony Chesney, Josh Anguiano, Mike Kilgore, Lars Leuders, Richard Brake, Austin Kingsbury

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Gunnar Gross, QB, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Hunter Mowery, WR, 6-1, 170, Sr.; Anthony Ortigoza-Austin, 5-9, 250, Sr.; Gage Gibson, OL, 6-4, 255, Jr.; Kaden Snyder, OL, 6-5, 265, So.; Dez Gibson, WR/DB, 6-2, 175, Sr.; Jameer Moore, DB, 6-3, 165, Sr.; Levi Losey, DB, 5-9, 155, Sr.; James MacKinney, DL, 6-3, 210, Jr.; Tyrus Young, LB, 6-0, 205, Jr.; Donovan Johnson, LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Gunnar Gross, 203 car., 1,124 yds., 22 TDs

Passing: Gunnar Gross, 135-220, 1,735 yds., 14 TDs

Receiving: Hunter Mowery, 42 rec., 638 yds., 8 TDs

Tackles: Donovan Johnson, 76 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: Levi Losey, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “The league was extremely level last year and we anticipate this year to look no different. I think some teams are going to be taking some strides forward and I view the league as being very competitive.”

Notes: The Mustangs put together an eight-win season last fall on the heels of graduating some key pieces of a seven-win season in 2021. Sixth-year coach Mark Sandbo enters 2023 with experience back at every level of the offense and defense. While Shrine Bowl selection Kenyon McMillan leaves the most glaring hole to graduation, standout QB Gunnar Gross returns with three experienced linemen to protect him and receivers Hunter Mowery and Dez Gibson to target, along with the addition of Baldwin standout WR Ryker Grossner. The linebacking corps and defensive backfield will be strengths and will carry the defense while the D-line is rebuilt.

2022 Record: 0-9 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. II

Head Coach: Sam Sellers (14th, 57-80) Assistants: Kanean Wendell, Tyler Smith, Earnest Ballenger, Ed Smith, Zain Seigrist, Dontray Mathews, Matthew Smith, Cole Martins, Treven Slayton

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Landon Putman, QB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Layson Sajdak, WR, 5-11, 164, Sr.; Carson Power, RB/DB, 6-1, 185, Sr.; Drew Emerson, WR/ DB, 5-9, 149, Sr.; Ryan Copeland, FB, 5-10, 180, Sr.; Eric Franco, OL, 5-11, 231, Jr.; Derrick Vargas, OL, 5-11, 250, Sr.; Brayden Fencl, OL, 6-1, 235, Sr.; Aidan Anderes, OL, 6-0, 245, Jr.; Dawson Dooley, DB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Alex Davidson, LB, 6-1, 180, Sr.; Dammian Hightower, DT, 5-10, 278, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: N/A Passing: Landon Putman, 102-202, 1,326 yds., 13 TDs Receiving: Layson Sajdak, 21 rec., 291 yds., 5 TDs Tackles: Drew Emerson, 71 tkls. Ints.: Carson Power, Dawson Dooley, 1 INT ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Last year’s injuries forced many young guys into the starting lineup so we return a ton of experience. We feel like we will be better to significantly better at every position compared to last year and if we can go into the season healthy we shouldn’t force anybody to start that isn’t ready to be playing. Confidence and health will be the key for us. We have a small junior class which causes depth issues. We love our younger classes but they aren’t physically ready to play the schedule that we play. We have a good sized senior class and that group loves football and has played a lot of football for us.”

Notes: The Cougars carry a 15-game losing streak into 2023, but loads of experience return to help longtime coach Sam Sellers right the ship. QB Landon Putman returns after throwing for 1,300 yards and 13 TDs last season, but top rusher Ian Andalon-Silva moved back to Ellsworth for his senior season.

2022 Record: 12-1 / Sunflower League

Head Coach: Joel Applebee (14th year, 115-36)

Assts.: Mike Strack, Jamie Resseguie, Matt Best, Matt Denning,Patrick Sarwinski, Eric Thomas, Tim Thomas, Gene Wier, Drew Sachen

Offense: Spread/Multiple Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Tristan Baker, RB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Garrett Cronin, DB, 5-10, 172, Sr.; Truman Griffith, DL, 6-3, 240, DL, Sr.; Davion Harris, WR, 6-2, 205, Sr.; Gus Hawkins, OL, 6-7, 245, Sr.; Mason Kemp, OL, 6-6, 205, Sr.; Evan Seifert, LB, 5-11, 200, Sr.; Sully Suderman, OL, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Kenten Laughman, K/P, 6-3, 165, Sr.; Brody Brigham, TE, 6-2, 195, Jr.; Abe Shaffer, OL, 6-4, 235, Jr.; Andy Watts, WR, So.; Jayden Woods, DL, 6-3, 220, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Tristan Baker, 223 car., 1,437 yds., 20 TDs

Passing: N/A Receiving: Tristan Baker, 11 rec., 153 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Jayden Woods, 51 Sacks: Truman Griffith, 6 Ints.: Jake Fischer, Evan Seifert 1 ea.

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Our theme this season is ‘Write Your Own Story.’ Every year is a new year. This group of seniors gets a chance to write their own story, individually and collectively. They have done a tremendous job in focusing on the day-to-day, rep-to-rep work that needs to be done. We have a outstanding group of seniors who are leading the way.”

Notes: Mill Valley won their fourth straight 5A title last fall and are in the midst of one of the great runs in Kansas history. The Jags are equipped to continue that run thanks to the return of a dominant D-line that features two of the state’s best players in junior Jayden Woods and senior Truman Griffith, but there are some holes to fill in the back end of the D. The new signal-caller will have some big shoes to fill in the form of graduated QB Hayden Jay, but a quartet of experienced O-linemen and 1,400-yard rusher Tristan Baker will help ease the transition.

2022 Record: 5-5 / Frontier League

Head Coach: Jason Feeback (9th year, 35-39; 13th overall, 58-54) Assts.: Alex Winkler, Colin Vaughn, Curtis Myers, Morgan Abel, Ben Aude, Brett Heightschmidt, Jeremy Bell, Ben Gehring, Brian Hogan

Offense: Spread Defense: 4-3

Returning starters: Tyson Beashore, QB, 6-1, 175, Jr.; Colton McKanna, RB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Jackson Torrez, WR, 6-1, 205, Jr.; Carter Meek, OL, 6-1, 290, Sr.; Cole Rodden, OL, 5-11, 230, Sr.; Lou Stadler, OL, 6-0, 240, Jr.; Logan Alexander, OL, 5-11, 215, Jr.; Cooper D’Albini, TE, 6-5, 215, Sr.; Keanu Tiafau, DL, 6-0, 215, Sr.; Kasey O’Neal, DL, 5-10, 185, Sr.; Noah Anderton, LB, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Porter Jones, LB, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Hagan Whitcraft, DB, 5-9, 160, Jr.; Ryan Pahl, DB, 5-7, 140, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Colton McKanna, 208 car., 1,362 yds., 24 TDs Passing: Tyson Beashore, 73-146, 686 yds., 4 TDs Receiving: Jackson Torrez, 25 rec., 253 yds. Tackles: Noah Anderton, 83 tkls. Sacks: Noah Anderton, 5 Ints.: Hagan Whitcraft, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We have a lot of guys returning offensively from last year. Our biggest gains offensively have come from our offensive line. We will only be as good as our guys up front. McKanna had a breakout season and ended up with over 1,300 yards rushing. Beashore is back at QB after starting as a sophomore last season. I expect him to be a solid player after he had a great offseason. Defensively, we will have a lot of guys competing for varsity time. Noah Anderton had a solid 2022 season and will be the leader of our defense. Nobody outworks him.”

Notes: The Broncos welcome back the majority of their O-line, anchored by Carter Meek, to block for returning 1,300-yard rusher Colton McKanna and junior QB Tyson Beashore. LB Porter Jones could enjoy a big season. He missed part of 2022 to injury.

TECUMSEH-SHAWNEE HEIGHTS

2022 Record: 5-5 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Jason Swift (21st year, 93-107)

Assistants: Michael Werner, Luke Coffman, William Skaggs III, Matt Dunkin, Braden Werner, Matt Stockdale, Briar Ploude, Tracy Kutscher

Offense: 1-Back Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Allen Baughman, RB, 5-8, 180, Sr.; Rykan Carver, OL, 6-1, 285, Sr.; Jacob Malcom, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Jayden Moore, WR, 5-8, 155, Sr.; Jayden Holly, WR, 6-3, 185 Sr.; Alex McHardie, OL, 6-0, 260, Sr.; Jordan Armbruster, WR, 5-9, 155, Sr.; Bradyn Humphries, OL, 5-10, 250, Jr.; Alex Dittman, LB, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Christian Gonzales, DL, 6-1, 280, Sr.; Jon Scott, LB, 6-1, Sr.; Alex Dawkins, DE, 6-0, Sr.; Taylen LeClere, 6-1, 155, Sr.; Jaki Lee, DE, 5-8, 220, Sr.; Jayden Moore, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Allen Baughman, 225 car., 1,496 yds., 20

TDs Passing: Parker Busenitz, 16-24, 119 yds., 2

TDs Receiving: Jacob Malcom, 18 rec., 173 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Alex Dittman, 60 tkls. Sacks: Jon Scott, 3 Ints.: Taylen LeClere 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are returning several starters on both sides of the ball. We will be athletic and strong – several kids are over 300 on bench, 400 on squat – that have experience on Friday night plus success on the court, mat, diamond, or track. Best of all, they love to compete. We just need to be consistent all season.”

Notes: After back-to-back 5-5 seasons veteran coach Jason Swift will try to lead the T-Birds deep into the playoffs behind an experienced team. After a breakout 1,500 yard junior campaign, senior running back Allen Baughman will look for more production behind a trio of quality linemen in seniors Rykan Carver and Alex McHardie, and junior Bradyn Humphries. The bulk of the front seven returns and will be counted on to tighten up in big games after allowing at least 24 points in each of 2023’s losses.

2022 Record: 7-3 / Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail, Div. II

Head Coach: Scott L’Ecuyer (6th year, 19-27; 9th overall, 24-49) Assts.: Mike Smith, Evan Hamm, Joey Craig, Jarrod Truman, John Johnson, Matt Willis, Trent Preheim, Ben Warner

Offense: Pro I Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Jaydon Birmingham, OL, 6-0, 285, Sr.; Sam Eldridge, WR/DB, 6-0, 160, Sr.; Trace Emig, TE/LB, 6-1, 195, Sr.; Dai’Mont Mucker, RB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Rock Schomaker, FB/OLB, 6-1, 215, Sr.; Derek Truman, OL, 6-2, 200, Sr.; Hank Welu, QB, 6-1, 200, Sr.; Noah Chobad, DL, 6-0, 210, Jr.; Trey Heitsman, DL, 6-0, 245, Sr.; Steel Schomaker, DB, 6-2, 190, Jr.; Drake Thorton, DL, 5-10, 220, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders:

Rushing: Dai’Mont Mucker, 1,864 yds., 18 TDs

Passing: Hank Welu, 573 yds., 11 TDs Receiving: Dai’Mont Mucker, 127 yds., 4 TDs Tackles: Rock Schomaker, 75 tkls. Sacks: Drake Thorton, 2.5 sacks Ints.: Rock Schomaker, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are fortunate to return seven starters on each side of the ball. We look to capitalize on that experience and build upon the success achieved last season. Senior quarterback Hank Welu returns for his third varsity season behind center. His big frame and strong arm will make him a factor on the ground and in the air. Senior running back Dai’Mont Mucker amassed several school records last fall, rushing for over 100 yards in five games on his way to 1,864 yards and 18 touchdowns as a junior. Defensively, senior Trey Heitsman anchors a front that came within 120 yards of setting the school record for the fewest rushing yards allowed in school history. Heitsman was a unanimous all-league selection as a junior and was recognized by several publications as an All-State defensive lineman. Senior Rock Schomaker returns to the hybrid linebacker/safety role where he earned all-league and All-State recognition a year ago.”

Notes: The Hornets engineered one of the biggest turnarounds in the state a season ago improving to 7-3 last fall after a 2-7 finish in 2021. Eleven players return with starting experience, filling 14 total starting spots on both sides of the ball, leaving sixth-year coach Scott L’Ecuyer optimistic his Hornets can put together another winning season that culminates with a deep playoff run.

PARK TOPEKA-SEAMAN

2022 Record: 6-3 / Meadowlark Conference

Head Coach: Jermaine Monroe, Sr. (3rd year, 6-12; 9th overall, 47-38) Assistants: Lashad Buffett, Jason Garland, Jermaine Savage, Anthony White

Offense: Gun Wing T Defense: 4-2-5

Returning starters: Jamon Wilson, RB/DB, 5-10, 170, Jr.; Adrian Burney, OL/DL, 6-2, 220, Jr.; Elijah Thomas, OL/DL, 6-3, 270, Jr.; Tremaine Savage, WR/DB, 6-0, 160, So.; Corrie McNaire, WR/DB, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Jerry Kyles, RB, 5-8, 175, Sr.; David Ochoa-Perez, OL

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Jamon Wilson, 53 car., 393 yds., 3 TDs

Passing: N/A Receiving: Jamon Wilson, 10 rec., 116 yds., 1 TD Tackles: Issac Shafer, 100 tkls. Sacks: Adrian Burney, 5 Ints.: Tremaine Savage, 1

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “It will be important that our young players step up and play major roles on both sides of the ball.”

Notes: After going winless from Week 2 of 2014 to the end of 2021, Highland Park used a move to a new conference and a talented 2022 class led by Kansas Pregame coverboy Tre Richardson to snap the losing streak and open the season with four straight wins. The Scots finished the season 6-3 and all three losses were very competitive. Now, thirdyear coach Jermain Monroe will rely on a talented junior class to continue HP’s progress.

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Head Coach: Dusty Trail (7th, 50-16) Assistants: Jim Nance, Josh Mans, Michael Laubhan, Brad Carey, Phil Blanton, Chris Jaax, Drew Rhoades, Jonathan Dravis, Chris Endress, Trent Arion, Austin Theis, Tyler Skilling, Billy Wise

Offense: Gun Spread Defense: 3-3-5

Returning starters: Van Haneberg, WR, 5-10, 170, Sr.; Thomas Gorges, RB, 5-8, 160, Sr.; Parker Flax, WR, 6-1, 190, Sr.; Jackson King, QB, 6-3, 190, Sr.; Ethan Schrandt, TE, 6-4, 220, Jr.; Hank Purvis, OL, 6-5, 310, Sr.; Luke Holthusen, WR, 6-1, 175, Sr.; Hayden Hiebert, DB, 5-10, 165, Jr.; Cash Ungles, LB, 5-10, 205, Sr.; Hayden Woolley, DB, 5-11, 175, Sr.; Tyler Chrisman, DB, 5-9, 170, Sr.; Carter Morris, LB, 5-10, 210, Sr.; Sam Hampton, DL, 5-10, 240, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Jackson King, 159 car., 948 yds., 15 TDs Passing: Jackson King, 90-165, 1,280 yds., 7 TDs Receiving: Luke Holthusen, 26 rec., 259 yds., 3 TDs Tackles: Carter Morris, 63 tkls. Sacks: Sam Hampton, 1 Ints.: Carter Morris, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season:

“This team understands the legacy of this program and accepts the pressure and support that comes with it. The commitment and hard work put in this offseason has shown that understanding. As in years past, we will need unproven players to rise to the challenge and compete at a championship level.

The Golden Eagles return seven offensive starters that started games during some point in the season last year, many starting all year. The defense returns six players that started in games last season. The returning experience on both sides of the ball will be invaluable and will help provide leadership to the rest of the team. The key, as always, will be to develop depth out of the younger players.”

Notes: Carroll will reload and continue the Golden Eagle tradition of success this fall. The offense should hit the ground running behind UNLV offensive line commit Hank Purvis and Air Force Academy QB commit Jackson King. Luke Holthusen will lead an experienced receiving corps and Thomas Gorges will carry the bulk of the load from the backfield. Senior linebackers Carter Morris and Cash Ungles will lead the Carroll defense while Sam Hampton will anchor the defensive line.

2022 Record: 4-4 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Jared Swafford (3rd, 10-8) Assistants: Mike Lincoln, Mitch McPherson, Jason Nichol, Jeff Schuh, Cody Magee, Mike Ragsdale, Ryan Foxhoven, Scott Petersen

Offense: Spread Defense: Stack

Returning starters: Callen Barta, WR/DB, 6-3, 180, Sr.; Jack Bloom, RB/DB, 6-0, 200, Sr.; Klayson Geller, TE, 5-11, Sr.; Max Huston, QB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Bryer Finley, QB/WR, 6-4, 175, Jr.; Holden Finley, WR, 5-11, 165, Sr.; Aaron Merritt, WR, 6-0, 180, Sr.; Aden Atkins, DL, 5-11, 185, Sr.; Kaden Jordan, OL, 6-2, 300, Jr.; Garrett Griffen, OL, 5-10, 250, Sr.; Aiden Miller, OL, 6-1, 225, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Jack Bloom, 81 car., 483 yds., 7 TDs

Passing: Max Hutson, 106-176, 1,248 yds., 12 TDs

Receiving: Callen Barta, 41 rec., 406 yds., 3 TDs

Tackles: Callen Barta, 26 tkls. Sacks: Jack Bloom, 1 Ints.: Callen Barta, 2

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We are excited to get after it again this season. We have made some huge strides during the offseason and look forward to another hard fought year. Our goals are to improve each day and take the next step!”

Notes: The Vikings return key pieces from a 4-4 team that suffered close losses to Shawnee Heights and Basehor-Linwood and closed the season on a three-game losing streak. Coach Jared Swafford’s team looks equipped to improve upon that finish this fall. An experienced offense will be counted on to score more in big games after tallying 14 points or less in three of the team’s four losses. Twelvehundred yard passer Max Huston welcomes back leading receivers Callen Barta and Aaron Merritt while 500-yard rusher Jack Bloom gets back three experienced offensive linemen to run behind. Barta – a Nebraska DB commit – is joined by Bloom in the defensive backfield, but the D is inexperienced.

2022 Record: 5-5 / Greater Wichita Athletic League

Head Coach: Weston Schartz (4th year, 23-9; 37th overall, 219-135) Assts.: Ryan Burr, Cody Peabody, Darrall Garner, Aharon Geddies, Kris Quillin, Chris Bloomer, Jameson Moore, Brad Olson, MIke Boswell, Grant Watkins

Offense: I-formation Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Omari Elias, RB/SB, 5-10, 200, Sr.; Dylan Hamilton, QB, 5-9, 175, Sr.; Will Thengvall, WR, 6-4, 180, Sr.; Paul Bloomer, OT, 6-6, 220, Sr.; Ayden Sliers, OT, 6-6, 245, Sr.; John Knapp, C, 6-1, 230, Sr.; Henry Orth, OG, 6-0, 240, Sr.; Peyton Gosch, TE, 6-2, 210, Jr.; Henry Chrisman, FB, 5-8, 160, Jr.; Jackson Daniel, FS, 5-11, 170, Jr.; Austin Howard, LB, 6-0, 180, Jr.; Kyle Keya, OLB, 6-4, 190, Jr.; Charlie Chrisman, SS, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Nathan Thengvall, CB, 6-3, 170, Sr.; Brody Holovach, NT, 6-1, 230, Sr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: Omari Elias, 293 car., 2,348 yds., 27 TDs Passing: Dylan Hamilton, 789 yds., 12 TDs Receiving: Will Thengvall Tackles: Jackson Daniel, 52 tkls. Sacks: N/A Ints.: N/A

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “Kapaun returns most of their record-setting offense, led by All-State RB Omari Elias. Dylan Hamilton returns at QB as a three-year starter with a total of 1,982 career passing yards with 26 TD’s. Four offensive lineman return looking to lead the offense deep into the playoffs, with Henry Chrisman as a key component at fullback in the power run game. Defensively, the Crusaders return speed and aggressiveness but will need to develop newcomers to reach a championship level. Austin Howard, Jackson Daniels, and Kyle Keya combined for 99 tackles as sophomores. Playmaker Charlie Chrisman returns to the starting lineup after missing the second half of the season due to injury. Nathan Thengvall returns at cornerback and is a vital leader in the secondary.”

Notes: The Crusaders entered 2022 with high expectations, but a brutal schedule left Weston Schartz’s squad with four regular season losses to some of the state’s best teams – three by 10 points or less. Now Kapaun’s players look forward to 2023 as an uber-experienced team returns 15 starters and will look to make a deep playoff run in 5A West.

2022 Record: 1-8 / United Kansas Conference

Head Coach: Trey Parker (1st year) Assistants: Jalen Durham, Johnnie Fields, Mitch Flanigan, Nathan Hanna, Terry Jones, Marcell Stewart

Returning starters: Jace Banks, RB/WR/FS, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Kyrece Robinson, FB/OL/DL, 6-1, 240, Sr.; Alex Engel, WR/LB, 5-11, 190, Sr.; Vince Redmond, OL/DL, 6-0, 245, Sr.; Kris Thomas, OL/DL, 6-2, 215, Sr.; Eadrian Cooper, OL/DL, 6-4, 275, Jr.; Mason Jones, WR/FS, 6-5, 170, Jr.; Elijah Berg, WR/LB, 5-11, 175, Jr.; Kenton Tisdale, QB/CB, 5-10, 170, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Rushing: N/A Passing: N/A Receiving: Mason Jones, 25 rec., 214 yds., 2 TDs Tackles: Kyrece Robinson, 55 tkls. Sacks: Kyrece Robinson, 7 Ints.: Jace Banks, 4

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “We want to consistenly compete at a high level which will require commmitment everyday and consistency on and off the field with accountability throughout the program.”

Notes: After one season under Russell Norton the Chargers welcome Trey Parker in as head coach. The graduation of Malachi Berg – now playing football at Hutchinson Community College – leaves a glaring hole at quarterback, but nine players back with starting experience leaves Parker a good place to start. The schedule is again a tough one with Seaman, De Soto, Piper, Shawnee Heights and Washburn Rural all among the top teams back in each of their respective classifications. The defense could be a strength early thanks to the return of top defenders Kyrece Robinson (55 tkls., 7 sacks in 2022) and Jace Banks (4 INTs). Robinson could play a role in the offensive backfield this fall while receiver Mason Jones returns with experience after catching 25 passes for 214 yards and a pair of scores in 2022. A good group of offensive and defensive lineman are back to help protect the new quarterback.

2022 Record: 2-7 / Greater Wichita Area League

Head Coach: Jeremy Moss (1st year) Assts.: Kaale McCulloch, Will Davis, Garett Heath, Cade Armstrong, Angel Martinez, Kwenn Murphy, Manny Aguilar, Gary Bohannon

Offense: Spread Defense: 3-4

Returning starters: Anthony Steele, QB, 6-2, 175, Jr.; Brandon Busher, WR, 5-10, 165, Sr.; Trayshun Higgins, WR/C, 5-10, 160, Sr.; Druzzla Johnson, OL, 6-0, 205, Sr.; Brycen James, OL, 6-3, 310, Sr.; Wayman Kidd, DE, 5-11, 180, Jr.; James Moore, DT, 5-11, 230, Jr.; Mencali En, LB, 5-10, 205, Jr.; Jamil West, DB, 5-10, 175, Sr.; Robert Echols, DB, 6-1, 165, Sr.; Jesse Hardyway, DB, 5-9, 170, Jr.

Returning Statistical Leaders: Tackles: Mencali En Sacks: N/A Ints.: Robert Echols, Mencali En

Head coach’s outlook for the 2023 season: “A key part of our team’s success this season will be to do things “The Pioneer Way!” Accountability, being Disciplined and doing things Together (ADT) is how we will succeed!”

PEAVLER ASSOCIATES