PreviewPigskin 2022 Jobe Smith North County Bryce Giesler Valle GavinCatholicPortellPotosiEvanCentralWeiss
2022August M2EgPA PREVIEWPIGSKIN EVERY CHAMPION WASONCEA CONTENDERWHO REFUSEDTO GIVEUP Online@fscb.com|MemberFDIC PROUDSUPPORTEROFHIGHSCHOOLSPORTS 207W.KarschBlvd,Farmington,MO (573)756-8919 201Highway21PilotKnob,MO (573)546-7608 1700W.Columbia,Farmington,MO (573)756-2910 1007W.Main,Fredericktown,MO (573)783-2100
Bryce Giesler became a breakout star when Valle Catholic endured costly injuries last fall. The senior running back leads the Warriors against a daunting schedule as they join the MAFC White Division.
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Jobe Smith established new single-season rushing standards in both yards and touchdowns as a junior for North County, which hopes to build upon its magical run to the Class 4 state semifinal round. Not long ago, it was common for Potosi to throw less than four passes in a game. Gavin Portell leads a more dynamic attack after breaking the single-season school record for receiving yards as a junior.
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Central produced a 10win season in 2021 with arguably its most talented roster ever. All-state senior Evan Weiss anchors a line that helped the offense average 51 points and more than 500 yards. stay grounded after deep playoff run Dragons relying on solid lines to steer success reload after strong senior class departs shuffle deck with tough schedule building continuity with positive culture make intriguing move to new conference Knights must develop young roster
26 Warriors
President Michael Distelhorst Editorial Staff King Alan TeresaKopitskyResselInserra
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ONNE TERRE –North County head coach Brian Jones entered last season concerned that any injuries to the starting offensive line may prevent his football team from reaching its full potential. That unit avoided any serious setbacks, and remained a reliable and steady force as the Raiders rambled toward a 12-2 record and their most successful season in 24 years.
“Probably the biggest reason it was special is because it was unexpected,” Jones said. “I told people going into 2021 that we would have a lot of returners, and a lot of those guys had been on the field for three years. I felt confident that we could win eight or nine games on our schedule, but had no idea that we would end up making the run that weThemade.”journey included a thrilling victory over Festus, a district title shutout against Hillsboro and two decisive triumphs over rival Farmington before concluding in the Class 4 state semifinal round.
The scenario up front has flipped heading into this fall. North County has seen an uptick in available back-up linemen, while several other areas of the field bring less experience.Righttackle
Raiders stay grounded after deep playoff run sides onalreadysignificantfullbackfinaltimesdowns.rushingcampaignrecordReedSmithascessspreadtogether.”offeelleastourout“Rightoffensiveamount“WeofsixtightonegoodthatThebehindexplosiveandrewroteSmithduringwinWithSmith
Isaac Gaugel and senior center Mason Lay have started since their sophomore seasons, and Blaine Holmes was a mainstay last year at Bryanguard.Brewster takes on a two-way role while standing out at defensive tackle next to Lay. Seth Bracken, Tyler Pipkin and Lucas Richardson are likewise competing on both
Jobe Smith
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TERRE –County Richardsonpotential.injuriesseasonJonesheadtolinemayteamfromse-remainedforceastowardmostyears.becauseJonessaid.into2021ofthosefieldforconfidentorschedule,wouldthataFestus,againstdecisivetri-FarmingtontheClasshasthisfall.anback-upotherlessGaugelMasonLaysoph-BlainelastonastandingnexttoPip-areboth run sides of the line.
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North RAIDERSCounty 2021 Record: 12-2 (3-1 MAFC Red) Head Coach – Brian Jones (6th season) Key returners – Jobe Smith, sr., RB/S; Andrew Civey, sr., TE/LB; Mason Lay, sr., C/DT; Kooper Kekec, sr., CB/WR; Grant Mullins, sr., WR/K; Bryan Brewster, sr., DT/OL; Isaac Gaugel, jr., OL/DL 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Farmington 9/2 – at St. Clair 9/9 – De Soto* 9/16 – at Hillsboro* 9/23 – Battle 9/30 – at Festus* 10/7 – Windsor* 10/13 – Potosi 10/20 – at SullivanBryan Brewster bryant Let’sGo Raiders BonneTerre • 573-366-6351 Let’sGo Raiders!
“We have a tremendous amount of depth at the offensive line,” Jones said. “Right now, we’re working out six kids – not counting our tight end – who started at least one game last year… We feel good about the nucleus of that group that has played together.”TheRaiders ran from the spread with resounding suc cess behind physical blocking as explosive tailback Jobe Smith and quarterback Nolan Reed rewrote the school recordSmithbooks.returns for his senior campaign after notching 1.928 rushing yards and 27 touch downs. He scored six separate times during the state quarter final win against Vashon. With the signal caller and fullback positions facing significant changes, the already stout workload placed on Smith may increase out of
Pigskin Preview 2022 necessity, especially early in the“Heseason.certainly has big expec tations for himself,” Jones said about Smith. “I don’t know that he’s our only weapon. With the playing experience that some other guys had last year, I don’t think that he will have to carry the team on hisTheback.”starting
Kooper Kekec
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Civey has verbally committed to Southeast Missouri State, where Reed now resides, and can deliver a wallop amid an otherwise rebuilt group of linebackers facing a true learning curve. Two aggressive defensive ends must also be replaced. Payden Allen has moved on to Division II Missouri Southern after producing seven sacks and 24 tackles for loss.
The defense may have shined brightest when North County blanked Hillsboro 24-0, avenging a blowout loss and capturing its first district crown since 2004 by allowing just 121 total yards.
The varsity receiving options appear stronger in number. Three top targets – Kooper Kekec and Grant Mullins plus tight end An drew Civey – are among seven multi-year starters on offense. “I am hoping to maybe stretch the field more vertically this year, and get the ball into the hands of our playmakers,” Jones said. “We’re really big on yards after the catch. It doesn’t matter if you throw a bubble screen that goes for 50 yards or a deep ball that goes for 50 yards.”
QB battle between senior Jack Moore and sophomore Henry Allebach remained undecided as of last week. Either choice may offer a deeper passing threat for the Raiders after Reed, a threeyear starter, became their first quarterback to rush for more than 1,000 yards in a season.
“We’ll take it one week at a time like we’ve always done in my tenure, just trying to get better each week,” he said. “To say that we’ll be district champions again would be pretty arrogant and ignorant, because we won’t know our district until maybe Aug. 26. And with the success of some private schools last year, there will be some reclassification there. So what is that going to look like?”
The two prominent conference tests against Hillsboro and Festus are away from home, and sandwich an intriguing week 5 upgrade against Battle out of TheColumbia.regular season concludes with back-to-back rare Thurs day night affairs against Potosi and Sullivan.
Opposing clubs may feel trepidation about throwing over the middle with Smith and Mullins patrolling at safety. Kekec also returns at one corner spot with an emphasis on run stopping along theDaneedge.McCoy contributes again to the secondary along with new comers Zane Huff and John Fau pel, who could each see carries in the backfield to spell Smith.
Other defensive help comes from incoming senior linebacker Danny Gantz and sophomore de fensive lineman Xavier Scherffius, both of whom can also serve as extra blockers at tight end.
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Another boost in 2021 came from the special teams, as Mullins expanded his impact as a capable and increasingly dependable kick er with multiple made field goals.
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Although North County has improved on reducing penalties over the past couple of years, Jones is cautious about setting definite benchmarks with such a tough act to follow.
Andrew Civey
The Raiders will open at home against Farmington with 47 varsity players in uniform, while the freshman program includes 26 players. Jones will serve a onegame suspension due to his dis qualification from the state semifi nal contest against Hannibal.
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“I always hate the first few weeks, because you’re never quite sure what you have yet, and are still finding the puzzle pieces and where they best fit together to make a run,” heFestussaid. offers a measuring stick right away in week 1, as Ste. Genevieve breaks in a new committee of running backs against a defense the brings nearly everyone back from lastButfall.the Dragons are fortunate to have a calming presence behind center, and senior QB Aiden Boyer could Jacob Johns steer success
MATT KING matt.king@lee.net
STE. GENEVIEVE –Jay Pope knows that looks can be and are often deceiving. And with the ever-changing circumstances that high school football programs endure, the second-year head coach of Ste. Genevieve gives minimal cre dence to initial impressions. Although the Dragons appear in strong position with an experienced three-year start ing quarterback and enviable size across the line of scrim mage, Pope is keeping an open mind about his team’s season prospects until it encounters the heat of several battles.
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Fast juniors Kaden Flye and Wyatt Springkamper present the best receiving op tions for Boyer following the departure of Second Team allstate performer Zach Boyer. Flye, who earned varsity snaps and was featured increasingly often with special teams as a freshman, has attended multiple elite camps and drawn attention from possible college destinations. Offensive success may ultimately depend on the health, protection and consistency of an offensive line that remains formidable despite losing its strongestAll-stateinfluence.guardDale Propst was chosen by coaches as the top lineman in the MAFC White Division, and the current Dragons are looking to emulate both his results and workAnthonyethic.
potentially be called upon to throw more than ever. Boyer is an established dual threat, but must be kept upright as much as possible and limit the number of dangerous collisions since a comparable back-up has yet to be “Ideveloped.alwaysstand behind him and watch the offense in practice, and he’s just a different person right now,” Pope said. “You can tell that he’s confident in what he’s doing. He is showing other guys where they need to be, and even when something goes wrong, he’s still process ing and not panicking. That comes with experience and we’re excited to see what he can do this year.”
Thomas Pecaut also started every Will Vaughn
Bader leads the push at right tackle.
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The Dragons have six athletes from grades 10-12 listed as running backs. Aiden Butcher, Jacob Johns and Carter Burr are seniors within the group, and Hayden Ford saw action in district play last season. A key takeaway from the 28-14 loss to conference champion Central in week 5 was the confidence to embrace a run-heavy approach when receivers were stifled downfield.
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game last season while Nathan Johnson and Dalton McBride return along the leftTheside.main beneficiaries of their blocking remain to be seen after recent graduate Austin McBride finished second all-time for Ste. Genevieve in yards per carry.
Junior safety Mason Nix returns to a secondary that lost Klayton Squires and his six interceptions. Flye is ex- settleandCentral,midseasonawaitsPerryvilleofpowererbecomesfreshman.thirdagainresponsibilitiesthesimplebutYoucanwe’rebackmanyPopechangeThereleap.withpectedhis“Youaresaid.guysanddoing,gothrowstillWhenendtoseasonThewithastrugglingAgauntletacrossthe
“It changes from week to week,” Pope said. “We like throwing out different formations, and whatever our best look is to get our guys in space is what we’ll stickWhilewith.”the starting front four has the glaring size and composition to be dominant, questions exist amid previously untested talent at the linebacker positions. Jacob Johns provides the exception as a three-year starter inside. He continues among the top tacklers for the team while hitting harder than his stature suggests. The ability of forces like Bader as a run stopper and dangerous edge rusher Will Vaughn, who starred in defeat against neighboring rival Valle Catholic, can assist the progression of younger teammates at the second level as the Dragons hope to take away short passes.
PREVIEWPIGSKIN M11PAGE 2022tSuGAu Cr ystal&Rich’s Crystal&Rich’s Produce CandRproduce@gmail.com Open7DaysaWeek 525PotosiSt. FarmingtonMO 573-218-9200 FollowusonFacebook SupportingAreaHighSchoolFootball P ro udsu pport erofhi gh scho olf oo tba ll ! 2E.Columbia Farmington,MO 573.756.6622 www.ofsl.bank STOREHOURS: Monday-Friday7-5•Saturday7-1•ClosedSunday 149CommercialDrive•Fredericktown,MO63645 573-783-3391 IfeveryfamilyintheU.S. spentanextra$10a monthatalocallyowned businessinsteadofa nationalchain,over$9.3 billionwouldbedirectly returnedtooureconomy. Pigskin Preview 2022 ozarks federal crystal & rich gifford pected to shine at cornerback with his speed and vertical leap.“You always have to teach. There are always details that change from time to time,” Pope said. “Even with the many guys we have coming back and their grasp of what we’re doing, we feel like we can go a little deeper with it. You throw new stuff at them, but still try to keep things as simple as possible.” When Ste. Genevieve finds the end zone, extra point responsibilities will belong again to Bryant Schwent in his third season since kicking as a freshman.TheMAFC White Division becomes exponentially tough er with the addition of state power Valle Catholic in place of a struggling and departed Perryville squad. A gauntlet of challenges awaits over a three-week midseason stretch, as games at Central, home against Potosi and across town against Valle settle the conference race. Ste. DRAGONSGenevieve 2021 Record: 7-4 (3-1 MAFC White) Head Coach – Jay Pope (2nd season) Key returners – Aiden Boyer, sr., QB; Kaden Flye, jr., WR/ CB; Will Vaughn, sr., DE; Jacob Johns, sr., LB/RB; Mason Nix, jr., WR/S; Anthony Bader, sr., OT/DE; Wyatt Springkamper, jr., RB/LB; Thomas Pecaut, sr., OL/DL; Bryant Schwent, jr., WR/K 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Festus 9/2 – Affton 9/9 – at Orchard Farm 9/16 – Fredericktown* 9/23 – at Central* 9/30 – Potosi* 10/7 – at Valle Catholic* 10/14 – at Jefferson 10/21 – Kelly Kaden Flye
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MATT KING matt.king@lee.net PARK HILLS – Central ended a modest absence from the state football playoffs last November by capturing its eighth district championship in 12 years. A stellar senior class stamped its imprint on the program with a 10-2 record, falling only to Class 4 semifinalist MICDS by a touchdown and Class 3 champion St. Mary’s in a Althoughrout.only three offensive and three defensive starters are back for the next chapter, the Rebels have prospered in this situation before.
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“That might have been one of the most talented groups we had, especially from a depth perspective, because there were 18 of them. So it’s going to be tough,” 19th-year head coach Kory Schweiss said. “We lost eight starters on both sides of the ball, and they were all really good players.” Whether or not this roster can eventually approach the dominance that included four shutout victories in a seven-game stretch remains to be seen, but the general outlook remains favorable. Many of the new starters previously saw extensive varsity action during second halves, once the first string established huge leads and relinquished the reins to them. But reduced depth at several positions will create more two-way players out of necessity, and likely force Central to operate at a more tempered pace.
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“One of our biggest strengths last year was the ability to play fast, running a lot of plays within a short
Rebels after strong senior class
2022 Schedule: 8/26 –9/2 – at 9/9 – Potosi* 9/16 –9/23 –9/30 –10/7 10/14––10/21 –
Central 2021 White) Head Coach (19th season) Key returners Murray,Jones,tonTyQB/S;WR/S;EvanSchweiss,Stewart,
PREVIEWPIGSKIN M13PAGE 2022SuGAut SERVPROofFarmington573-756-5191 servpro Pigskin Preview 2022 amount of time,” Schweiss said. “That was possible because we had a lot of guys playing strictly on one side of the“Fromball. a skill perspective, especially our receivers and secondary, we’ll still be able to rotate guys in who are fresh. But otherwise it will be challenging, especially early in the season when it’s hot, to give them some breaks.”
Leading tacklers Ruger Sutton and Dylan Holifield have also moved on, and the maturation of the next set of starting linebackers could parallel defensive success. But the Rebels have richly bolstered their athleticism with numerous stars from the track and basketball programs, and are poised to thrive behind a promising offensive front.
The quarterback spot now belongs to junior Casen Murphy, a touted baseball prospect who would have certainly started sooner if not for the proven excellence and poise of SchweissBridges.anticipates solid progress and production as a dual threat from Murphy, who stands to benefit from a crew of dangerous targets spanning theThefield.most obvious
“I feel like this could potentially be the best starting line we’ve had in a while, and we were really good there last year,” Schweiss said. “As far as the spread game goes, these five are athletic, pretty strong and have the tools to do many different things.”
Central REBELS 2021 Record: 10-2 (4-0 MAFC White) Head Coach – Kory Schweiss (19th season) Key returners – Jobe Bryant, jr., WR/S; Casen Murphy, jr., QB/S; Evan Weiss, sr., OL/DL; Ty Schweiss, sr., WR/LB; Tris ton Stewart, sr., OL/DE; Jaxon Jones, soph., RB/LB; Logan Murray, jr., C 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Poplar Bluff 9/2 – at Caruthersville 9/9 – Potosi* 9/16 – at Cape Central 9/23 – Ste. Genevieve* 9/30 – at Valle Catholic* 10/7 – at Fredericktown* 10/14 – at Dexter 10/21 – Farmington Ty Schweiss
Central averaged a lofty 51 points and 511 yards of total offense per game. Various single-season and career records were broken by running back Dayshawn Welch and quarterback Jett Bridges, who have left their successors an elevated standard to follow.
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“We were able to send in subs and you wouldn’t really notice much of a drop-off,” he said. “We won’t be able to sub as much this year on the defensive line. We’re tinkering with or changing some of our schemes due to lack of depth up front. A lot of linemen will have to play on both sides of theJonesball.”is trending toward being regarded as a top linebacker in the area while still young.
Ty onedebutsmadeschoolSchweissforseason,MAFCweektop-10butlockedneighborchiefincenthaveonAlthoughaulingthelastchoicepracticetheHortonlinebackerSchweissoppositeWilliamsseasonprogram.ThecyclesimilarthereplacedwithweekSte.conferencethe6.Vallethetheiryear
Caden Casey and Kendall Horton, known for their hoops skills, could break out along with state track medalists Kannon Harlow and HakinSophomoreWagner.Jaxon Jones has emerged as the premier choice at running back. Mason Williams has fully recovered from ACL surgery, and Jailen Welch should also pick up someAll-statecarries.left guard Evan Weiss powers a sizable offensive line, and works alongside all-MAFC center Logan Murray at center. Tackles Triston Stewart and Nathan Weinhold move into starting roles, along with right guard Sammy Callaway, after getting valuable time on the defensive line last season. Their health and stamina will be tested right away, and Coach Schweiss plans to exercise caution within the game plan to avoid wearing them down over the course of a daunting season.
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Casen Murphy playmaker in space is junior Jobe Bryant, who returns as a three-year starter and has already garnered interest from multiple Division I football and basketball programs. Bryant captured all-state distinction in a second sport last fall after compiling more than 1,000 receiving yards plus 15 touchdowns. The Rebels may also creatively incorporate him into the backfield. Ty Schweiss and Zack Boyd add experience at receiver.
Ty Schweiss stays at outside linebacker while Williams and Horton are competing along the opposite side. Williams is also thriving in practice as a viable extra-point choice after both kickers from last season opted to leave theTheprogram.newtwo-year scheduling cycle appears to hold a similar degree of difficulty. Although MICDS is no longer on the docket, the Rebels have replaced small St. Vin cent with Class 5 Poplar Bluff in week 1. Ste. Genevieve remains the chief conference rival, and neighbor Farmington stays locked into the week 9 slot, but the marquee matchup of top-10 caliber teams arrives in weekValle6. Catholic joins the MAFC White Division this season, and will meet Central for the first time since 2005. Schweiss and former high school teammate Judd Naeger made their head coaching debuts on opposite sidelines one year earlier.
eachaboutthekidsthatit’shavemuch.weeachcoachlikeschematics,allyteamswantedlastthiseverybodyneat,”players,standpoint,communityandforourit’sgoingtobereallySchweisssaid.“Ithinkhaswantedtoseematchupforprobablythe10years.“Honestly,JuddandIbothtodothiswhenourwerestartingtobere-good.Wetalkalotaboutsoit’salmosttakingawayanassistantwhenweplayagainstother.“WeavoidedthatbecausehelpedeachotheroutsoButnow,ourprogramsreachedapointwherehardertofindcompetitionsatisfiestheneedsofourconsistentlythroughoutseason,soit’sprobablytimethatweplayother.” Jobe Bryant belgrade hearing care partnersLocallyOwned.CommunityMinded. FamilyFocused. (573)756-1224 koppeisheatingandcooling.com GO KNIGHTS! HearingCarePartners.com 573.747.4719 Locat io nsinFarmington, Hercula ne um,andSte.G ene vieve Proudlysupporting ourlocal footballteams WithofficesinFarmington, Herculaneum, andSte. Genevieve. WeListenSoYou CanHear
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The Warriors have been bumped to Class 3 since capturing six Class 1 state titles in the span of a decade under Naeger, and will have hosting honors this year at Fr. John Dempsey Field. “From a
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MATT KING matt.king@lee.net P
Wyrick and his coaching staff face the challenge of finding the balance between expanding the playbook and patiently bringing newcomers up to “Asspeed.ayoung head coach, you learn quickly that less is more. I feel at times that we may have thrown too much at them,” he said. “Now I’m just trying to focus on the things that we’re good at, and find sets that put the opposing defense where we want it instead of trying to run a thousand different things.”
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Quarterback Blake Coleman, receiver Gavin Por tell and linebacker Zane West enter their senior campaigns as three-year starters.
The presence of Coleman behind center should facilitate that process. He embodies a trend of strong and aggressive throwing Zane
Trojans shuffledeck with toughschedule ahead
OTOSI – Two narrow losses at the outset and a serious injury to star running back Booba Henson forced the Potosi football team to show resilience lastSeveralseason.seniors at the time had been given much differ ent roles in the lineup, and the Trojans responded with four victories during a stretch of five October contests. “With the strength of our schedule, I really thought that we competed well,” former PHS standout and third-year head coach Dylan Wyrick said. “In those first two games against Owensville and Farm ington, we were one play away on both nights from being 7-4 instead of 5-6.” Any current uncertainty heading into week 1 against St. Clair is more anticipated, based on graduation turnover and competition to fill vacantPotosipositions.alsohas proven talent.
arms across the formidable MAFC White Division. Portell emerged as the preferred target last fall, breaking the school record for a single season with 927 receiving yards while showing a knack to operate over the middle or reel in elevated passes.
Landon Sprous, one of two state hurdles qualifiers on the roster, looks to provide an added receiving option as Coleman aims to reduce interceptions and vary his distribution.
The main competition for West in the backfield is promising freshman Noah Walton, whose progression could allow West to either gain some rest or periodically line up at receiver. For a second straight year, the Trojans face questions in the trenches. Left tackle and defensive end Nate Robinson stars within that Potosi
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“I think Blake has a really solid grasp of the offense, and has never been super flustered, which is rare for a high school kid,” Wyrick said. “He has grown and understands that you don’t always have to throw the deep ball. You can also go underneath with hitches, slants and out routes instead of going for it all every time.” West assumed the majority of carries in place of Henson, and now anchors a defensive second level that must replace both inside linebackers. Portell returns to the strong side.
TROJANS 2021 Record: 5-6 (2-2 MAFC White) Head Coach – Dylan Wyrick (3rd season) Key returners – Blake Coleman, sr., QB; Gavin Portell, sr., WR/DB; Zane West, sr., RB/ LB; Nate Robinson, sr., OT/ DE; J.T. Cross, jr., OL/LB; Luke Brabham, jr., WR/CB; Eli Harris, sr., C/DL 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – St. Clair 9/2 – at Farmington 9/9 – at Central* 9/16 – Valle Catholic* 9/23 – Fredericktown* 9/30 – at Ste. Genevieve* 10/7 – St. Charles West 10/13 – at North County 10/21 – Cape Central Blake Coleman
Luke Brabham offers a deep threat away from Portell, and leads a crew of fast track and field athletes who figure prominently into plans as two-way performers.
Pigskin Preview 2022 group from blocking and pass rushing standpoints. Eli Harris returns as a pulling center after recovering from ACL surgery, and will be surrounded by new starting guards J.T. Cross and Ean Eaton plus senior Dylan Darnell at right tackle.
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“We had to reconstruct an offensive line, which could have made things tough,” Wyrick said. “Up front, Wyatt Knapp, Levi Courtney and Hunter Kincaid stepped up to do an outstanding job. Cross arrived as a key force at interior lineman, even in decisive losses against Central and North County, but his athleticism is better suited for a new assignment at middle Brabhamlinebacker.isanathletic cover cornerback, and will again handle the place kicking. Harris balances the front four with Robinson at defensive end. Three players are still batting at outside linebacker. The quest to establish depth is ongoing for Potosi, which is encouraged by also having junior varsity and freshman squad for the first time in several years.
The Trojans are embarking upon a bulky schedule that contains four potential Class 4 opponents and the mandatory upgrade in the conference as Valle Catholic replaces departing Perryville. Week 2 presents a chance for revenge at home against Farmington, which prevailed following a goal-line stand as timeDefendingexpired. league champion Central follows in week 3, just ahead of Valle. Potosi will seek a strong finish to the regular season with home dates against St. Charles West and Cape Central. The Trojans averaged 26.7 points per game in 2021, and may need to at least duplicate that number for success as the new-look defense gains a foothold.“Asdiscouraged as people can get by looking at the schedule, for myself and the coaching staff, we relay to the boys that each week is an opportunity to get better and become stronger,” Wyrick said.
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Nate Robinson
“Once we get those numbers up where they need to be, then maybe we can platoon some spots,” said Wyrick. “But at the moment, you just have to get your best 11 on the field.”
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jr., WR/CB; Eli Harris, sr.,
North RAIDERSCounty
Head Coach – Brian Jones (6th season) Key returners – Jobe Smith, sr., RB/S; Andrew Civey, sr., TE/LB; Mason Lay, sr., C/DT; Kooper Kekec, sr., CB/WR; Grant Mullins, sr., WR/K; Bryan Brewster, sr., DT/OL; Isaac Gaugel, jr., OL/DL Schedule: 8/26 – Farmington 9/2 at St. Clair 9/9 De Soto* 9/16 at Hillsboro* 9/23 Battle 9/30 at Festus* 10/7 Windsor* 10/13 Potosi 10/20 at Sullivan
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Record: 3-7 (0-4 MAFC White) Head Coach –
County
2021 Record: 12-2 (3-1 MAFC Red)
Genevieve*
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PREVIEWPIGSKIN M21PAGE 2022SuGAut Pigskin Preview 2022 teamArea schedules Ste. DRAGONSGenevieve 2021 Record: 7-4 (3-1 MAFC White) Head Coach – Jay Pope (2nd season) Key returners – Aiden Boyer, sr., QB; Kaden Flye, jr., WR/ CB; Will Vaughn, sr., DE; Jacob Johns, sr., LB/RB; Mason Nix, jr., WR/S; Anthony Bader, sr., OT/DE; Wyatt Springkamper, jr., RB/LB; Thomas Pecaut, sr., OL/DL; Bryant Schwent, jr., WR/K 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Festus 9/2 – Affton 9/9 – at Orchard Farm 9/16 – Fredericktown* 9/23 – at Central* 9/30 – Potosi* 10/7 – at Valle Catholic* 10/14 – at Jefferson 10/21 – Kelly Central REBELS 2021 Record: 10-2 (4-0 MAFC White) Head Coach – Kory Schweiss (19th season) Key returners – Jobe Bryant, jr., WR/S; Casen Murphy, jr., QB/S; Evan Weiss, sr., OL/DL; Ty Schweiss, sr., WR/LB; Triston Stewart, sr., OL/DE; Jaxon Jones, soph., RB/LB; Logan Murray, jr., C 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Poplar Bluff 9/2 – at Caruthersville 9/9 – Potosi* 9/16 – at Cape Central 9/23 – Ste. Genevieve* 9/30 – at Valle Catholic* 10/7 – at Fredericktown* 10/14 – at Dexter 10/21 – Farmington
jr., OL/LB;
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2021 Jacob 8/26 Jefferson 9/2 9/9 9/16 – at Ste. Genevieve* 9/23 – at Potosi* 9/30 – De Soto 10/7 – Central* 10/14 – at St. Francis Borgia 10/21 – at East Prairie Potosi TROJANS Record: 5-6 (2-2 MAFC Head Coach – Dylan Wyrick (3rd season) Key returners – Blake Coleman, sr., QB; Gavin Portell, sr., WR/DB; Zane West, sr., RB/ LB; Nate Robinson, sr., OT/ DE; J.T. Cross, Luke Brabham, C/DL 8/26 – St. 9/2 at Farmington 9/9 at 9/16 Valle 9/23 Fredericktown* 9/30 at Ste. 10/7 St. Charles 10/13 at North 10/21 Cape Valle WARRIORSCatholic Record: 10-1 (Independent) Head Coach – Judd Naeger (19th season) Key returners – Bryce Giesler, sr., RB/LB; Chase Fallert, sr., QB/S; Noah Elbert, sr., OL/DL; Tim Okenfuss, sr., DE; Sam Drury, sr., WR/DB; Jacob Calbreath, sr., OL/DL; Grant Fallert, jr., WR/DB; Carson Tucker, sr., LB; Alex Viox, jr., RB/LB 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Seckman 9/2 – at Festus 9/9 – at Fredericktown*
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– Herculaneum
2022
Central*
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Whiten er (2nd season) Key returners – Isaac Smith, sr., OL/DL; Carter Cheaney, jr., QB/P; T.J. Bowling, sr., OL/ LB; Garrett Marler, sr., RB/LB; Andrew Starkey, sr., WR; Eli Aslinger, sr., WR/CB; Easton Wood, soph., WR/LB 2022 Schedule:
Clair
9/16 – at Potosi* 9/23 – St. Vincent 9/30 – Central* 10/7 – Ste. Genevieve* 10/14 – Vianney 10/21 – at Kennett KNIGHTSFarmington 2021 Record: 7-4 (3-1 SEMO North) Head Coach – Erik Kruppe (10th season) Key returners – Kaesen McClain, soph., RB; Gabe Giuliani, jr., RB/LB; Wyatt Skaggs, jr., RB/LB; Braydon Berry, jr., RB/S; Bryce Kathcart, jr., OL/DE; Josh Wyatt, sr., OL/ LB; Damian Cabrera, jr., RB/LB 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – at North County 9/2 – Potosi 9/9 – at Jackson* 9/16 – Sikeston* 9/24 – at TDW Prep 9/30 – Cape Central* 10/7 – at Poplar Bluff* 10/14 – Festus 10/21 – at Central
2022August M22EgPA PREVIEWPIGSKIN Pigskin Preview 2022 Blackcats building continuitywith positive culture ALAN KOPITSKY alan.kopitsky@lee.net F builtexcitementWhitenerIteamlar-seasonthreestartedrosterupAsprogramyear,toppedathletesathletesimproveandpromisesIprogramconversationsplayingorforhesearchingovertheactivelytherosterrow,hardtheiroutcomescontinuedation,”placechangetiltyoungspecificthecultureseesericktownatenters–REDERICKTOWNJakeWhitenerhissecondyearthehelmofFred-footballteam,andatransformationintheofthesquadentering2022season.“Fromanactualfootballobservation,ourmenthisseasonarefullonboardwiththeculturethatneededtotakeforasuccessfulfoun-Whitenersaid. “Wetogrowandthewillsoonbeinfavor fordedicationandwork.”ForthesecondyearinathesizeoftheBlackcats’hasincreased.Priorto2021campaign,Whitenerrecruitedplayersatschool.“BeforeIevereventookastheheadcoach,Iwasthehallwayforkids,”said. “Iaskedtheplayersnamesoftheirfriendsanyonewhoshouldbefootballandheldopenaboutwherethewillbegoing.Oncewashired,Ifulfilledmytotheseyoungmenstartedtheframeworktoaprogramaroundtheinsteadofbuildingtofitmyneeds.”In2021,theCats’rosteroutat43players.Thisthemomentuminthecontinuednaturally.manyas50playersshowedintheoff-season.Thelatesthas45.Lastseason,Fredericktownout0-5beforewinningofitslastfourregu-games.Thecurrentincludes12seniors.“Forthisupcoming seasondidnotsearchthehallways,”said.“Instead,thefromourteamtheinterestofotherGarrett Marler
BLACKCATSFredericktown 2021 Record: 3-7 (0-4 MAFC White) Head Coach – Jacob Whiten er (2nd season) Key returners – Isaac Smith, sr., OL/DL; Carter Cheaney, jr., QB/P; T.J. Bowling, sr., OL/ LB; Garrett Marler, sr., RB/LB; Andrew Starkey, sr., WR; Eli Aslinger, sr., WR/CB; Easton Wood, soph., WR/LB 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Jefferson 9/2 – Herculaneum 9/9 – Valle Catholic* 9/16 – at Ste. Genevieve* 9/23 – at Potosi* 9/30 – De Soto 10/7 – Central* 10/14 – at St. Francis Borgia 10/21 – at East Prairie Carter Cheaney
“I truly feel that our offen-
old village hot dog better night
gifford/farmington students and they sought me out. The culture change was noticed in December and into January when offseason weights started and new faces began showing up because of how the second half of last year’s season went. There was a distinct difference in men tality as well as character that started to sprout interest.”
Whitener sees several areas of improvement on the field, and the offensive line scheme has been simplified. He said this will allow “blocking at the point of emphasis to be easier than we had last year.”
He said receivers are catching a higher percentage of passes in practice, and the running game looks much more advanced than the same time last season.
PREVIEWPIGSKIN M23PAGE 2022tSuGAu (573)756-5762(573)756-5762 BESTOFLUC K BESTOFLUCK toalllocalHighSchool FootballTeams this2022season! 510PotosiStreet,Farmington LocatedinHistoric Caledonia,MO 219S.StateHwy.21Caledonia,MO 12SPECIA LT Y HOT DOGS AVA ILABLEDAILY Y ! Pigskin Preview 2022
“I truly expect to be able to move the ball more efficient ly on the ground this year,” he said. “Garrett Marler has proven that he will be a force running the ball as well as Carter Cheaney on our read option.
2022August M24EgPA PREVIEWPIGSKIN
Pigskin Preview 2022
sive line has a better under standing with year two of this offense, and they are starting to take that pride per snap to a more serious level,” Whitener said. “I also feel that we have five to six wide receivers that can be a threat every snap, so we are truly looking to be a multi-tiered team with more than one or two threats.”
Cheaney is a junior with impressive running skill and improved arm strength. He played quarterback as a fresh man and “Cartersophomore.workshard in the offseason both mechanically and in the weight room,” Whitener said. “I think the biggest growth I’ve seen is in his ability to read the field.” Last season, the Cats relied on a rotation of ball carriers, but Marler has solidified his role as a full-time runner entering his senior year. Senior Michael Akins and sophomore Easton Wood will also see some snaps in the backfield. The Cats have five receivers who will share time, including senior Andrew Star key as a returning starter. Koda Hodge played some at this position last year. Whitener said the senior “has put on some size and speed in the offseason, so we are looking forward to seeing hisSophomoreabilities.”
“All three of these young men have skill sets that help with our style of defense that allows for smaller, quicker athletes to play instead of relying on girth and size,” Whitener said. “If these three positions can do their jobs, then we will have many opportunities for success.”
Senior Lakota Cowling, Porter, Bellew and Collier will also see some playing time on the line as the Fredericktown defensive set uses fiveThelinebackers.twooutside linebackers are Garrett Marler, who started and Wood, the ter,”strongesttheingdefensestartinghealthy,”betoplayofwhodefensiveareopposition,”namicgroupEthanandlinebackerswhatplayersandWhitenerdistrictphysicalitytheThereturnersMarler. “ThereandEliAslingerreturningthefootballsafety“CarterbeonaslongWithhasCats.“WeWhitener
Isaac Smith
Timothy DeSanto moved into the district last“Heseason.isan outstanding blocker with great hands,” Whitener said. “The best thing about Tim is his motor never stops, so we will look forward to watching him in thisWhiteneroffense.”said two other sophomore receivers, Ethan Marler and Wood, are having an impact on the offense. Both eventually became fulltime starters as freshmen. The offensive line will have a mix of experienced and new players. Isaac Smith was an all-conference offensive lineman in 2021, and will be the starting center.
Senior tackles TJ Bowling and Dylan Porter both started some last year. The guards will be senior Jordan Collier and sophomore Ethan Bellew. Whitener said it will be important for the entire line to get repetition in order to grow. The defense is coming together as a unit while gaining experience playing a familiar“Defensively,scheme.we are flying to the football and getting helmets on ball carriers as well as making plays on the ball in the air,” Whitener said. “The payoff defensively is coming with comfort as this is year three with this defense, and the athletes are playing the sport without having to Whitenerthink.” said he has seen the defense improve in seven-on-seven drills this summer as well as at the contact camp. “Our defense is starting to get that ruthless feel of sniffing out the ball and getting there with a purpose,” he said. “Again, we talk about pride, all 11 players doing their job and swarming to theSmithball.” was an all-district defensive lineman in 2021. He will be joined by Akins, who saw some snaps on the line last year, and Hodge.
Part of the continuity with the Blackcats will be in their coaching staff. Returning assistant coaches are Terry Hennes (defensive coordinator), Justin Boehm (offensive coordinator), Kody Tipton (special teams coordinator), Jon Clauser, and Chad Dunnahoo. The group also includes two volunteers this year, Zak Keller and Keith Mitchell. Andrew Starkey
Eli Aslinger and Starkey are returning starters in the defensive backfield. Cheaney, who the coach said has “a ton of football knowledge,” will play safety for the defense.
PREVIEWPIGSKIN M25PAGE 2022tSuGAu 306EastKarshBlvd., FarmingtonMO Ste.Genevieve,MO (573) 883-5722 Bloomsdale,MO (573) 483-9494 (573) 756-57051209MapleStreet,Farmington,MO 573-701-9300 FollowusonFacebook LocallyOwnedIndependentAgency $149starting at (573)701-0100 FREEFINANCING! *Seestorefordetails! NOWOPEN7DAYSAWEEK Mon-sat:10-6•Sun:12-6 ASKABOUT SAMEDAY SERVICE Pigskin Preview 2022 bettern night sleep weems insurance building supply who started their last year, and Wood, who started in the district play last season. Whitener said the speed and physicality which these players bring sets a tempo for what the defense does. The Cats’ three middle linebackers are DeSanto and returners Bowling and Ethan“ThereMarler. isatrue grit in this group and the downhill dy namic is fun to watch on the opposition,” Whitener said.
“Carter is a player that has to be on the field and he will be as long as we can keep him healthy,” Whitener said. With several players starting on both offense and defense this year, condition ing has been an emphasis for the“WeCats.condition to be our strongest in the fourth quar ter,” Whitener said. “We can lose a football game because of tiredness. Every day we tell the athletes that 1,000 yards of sprints are scheduled. Their tempo, tone and efforts will determine the outcomes. We set this precedent every day so that there are no surprises to the outcomes based on the energy, effectiveness, and effort per play.”
Also, with more players on the roster, the Cats have more options beyond the starters. Whitener said the team lacked depth in past years, but this year “we are two to three deep at spots with quality players. This will be a major factor as the season begins.”
A transitional year of A perfect regular season and top-five ranking in Class 3 instead unveiled the latest testament to an impeccable streak of sustained consistency that begins through developing young talent.
reer victories over 18 seasons as the Warriors finished 10-1 overall, further stamping a surefire Hall of Fame résumé decorated with six state championships.Alwaysseeking new challenges, Valle Catholic joins the much stronger MAFC White Division after ruling the I-55 Conference for more than a Whiledecade.back-to-back games against Central and Ste. Genevieve highlight the schedule from a community perspective, normal routines between coaching friends must be temporarily set aside. Central is directed by Kory Schweiss, former high school teammate of Naeger, and former Valle all-state receiver Jay Pope enters his second season guiding the rival Dragons.
The venerable private school with an enrollment hovering around 130 students dominated much larger powers St. Dominic, Borgia and Westminster behind a record-setting defense.
“Kory and I are great friends, and [Jay] and I are great friends. So those games back to back won’t be much fun from the perspective that we’re always rooting for each other,” Naeger said. “It’s tough when you can’t talk to one of your good friends about your job.”
The Warriors should once again be superb up front, which bodes well as Fallert re turns to take snaps alongside all-state running back Bryce
2022August M26EgPA PREVIEWPIGSKIN Pigskin Preview 2022 Valleoriginalforhisert,itsthebreakout26aboutexplodingcollegiateandwetivewhofastdo,”tentoondefensiveleaveOkenfuss,totacklestheirJacobseniorsTeamNoahsivelikelyofpotentiallinemenencedGieslerwithwhonowDrurystringingjuniorthree11rushinginendalongGieslerButtheretheofincrediblecontestsThenewGrantlastsafetyhealthy.was67linebackers.Asmanythoserotatingfront.SeniorElbertall-stateCalbreathspotsTimdepartinga“Weoffense,perhapsthanNaegergrouplendyardagecanfundamentallyBryce10.5touchdownsHissuccessWarriorsoffensewhooldersevenChaseCatholicMATT KING matt.king@lee.net STE. GENEVIEVE –
SamstandoutsonceCatholicdisappointmentcouldindependencehavespelledfortheVallefootballprogramcriticalinjuriesbefellChaseFallertandDrury.
Warriors make intriguingmove to new conference
“We certainly had one of our tougher schedules in the last few years. If you told me we would lose our No. 2 wide receiver and then our quarterback in week 4, I probably would have been worried,” head coach Judd Naeger said. “We also had to use several combinations along our offensive line due to COVID and injuries. But the kids battled hard week to week, and our depth really showed.” Naeger surpassed 200 ca-
Bryce Giesler
The postseason fun could have lasted well into November if not for the misfortune of being assigned to the same district as juggernaut and eventual state champion St. Mary’s.
Pigskin
OL/DL; Tim
sr., WR/DB; Jacob
sr., OL/DL; Grant Fallert, jr., WR/DB; Carson Tucker, sr., LB; Alex Viox, jr., RB/LB 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – Seckman 9/2 – at Festus 9/9 – at Fredericktown* 9/16 – at Potosi* 9/23 – St. Vincent 9/30 – Central* 10/7 – Ste. Genevieve* 10/14 – Vianney 10/21 – at Kennett perspectiveDragons.receiverandschoolfor-Jayseasonaregamesmuchrootingforsaid.“It’stalkfriendsoncefront,FallertrealongsideBryce
Preview 2022
ert, sr., QB/S; Noah
Carson
“We had some good starts on offense, which forced teams to perhaps run the ball less of ten than they would normally do,” Naeger said. “We have a fast group up front with guys who lend themselves to nega tive yardage plays. Hopefully, we can continue to be tough and fundamentally sound.”
Tucker
Chase
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Giesler in the backfield. But there is more to ponder along the middle and back end of a defense that yielded in incredible 109 first-half rushing yards combined over 11 contests last fall. The secondary includes three new starters along with junior Grant Fallert after end ing last season with a fourthstring safety on the field, but Drury and Chase Fallert are now healthy. Carson Tucker, who was second on the team with 67 tackles, and Brandon Giesler are the most experi enced linebackers. As many as nine defensive linemen are competing for potential snaps, and seven of those same players are likely rotating along the offen siveSeniorfront.and four-year starter Noah Elbert picked up Third Team all-state honors, while seniors Jackson Fowler and Jacob Calbreath each maintain their spots for a third year. Tim Okenfuss had 19 tackles for loss, second only to departing graduate Michael Okenfuss, whose 13 sacks leave a glaring vacancy at defensive end.
Fallert
Bryce Giesler has drawn collegiate interest since exploding for 1,722 yards –about 10.5 per carry – and 26 touchdowns during his breakout junior campaign. His success was pivotal as the Warriors began molding its offense around Grant Fall ert, who filled in admirably as his older cousin was sidelined for seven weeks. Chase Fallert takes back his original job as a senior, but Valle Catholic may feature FallElbert, sr., Okenfuss, Drury, Calbreath,
Valle WARRIORSCatholic 2021 Record: 10-1 (Independent) Head Coach – Judd Naeger (19th season) Key returners – Bryce Giesler, sr., RB/LB; Chase
sr., DE; Sam
Other key contributors up front are Isaac Viox, Jacob Elbert, Dalton Roth and Devin Moro. Gegg appears ready to take over at cornerback while Wil Kuehn again kicks extraVallepoints.Catholic compiled an average of 49.6 points last season while notching a plus12 turnover margin, marking a vast improvement from previous years.
Pigskin Preview 2022
Two undecided starters are being sorted out in practice between Andre Oberle and Josh Fallert inside, and Bryce Giesler and Alex Viox outside.
Two other receiving spots bring welcomed competition from six to eight contenders, including Alex Viox, Rylan Fallert, Eli Fallert, A.J. Basler, Tyler Gegg and Isaac Basler.
Alex Viox and Okenfuss are poised to earn carries with Giesler, while Cohen Gibbs and Harry Oliver offer signif icant blocking depth when tight ends are utilized.
The Warriors are wasting no time jumping into a fero cious schedule. Traditional Class 6 foe Seckman visits for the opener ahead of a road showdown with Festus. Vianney and Kennett await in October once the conference race is “We’llsettled.bebattle tested after weeks one and two, and if we come out of those games healthy while being competitive, I think it lends itself to being an exciting team heading into the conference schedule,” said Naeger. “We have to find our best way to get the most kids involved.”
Jacob Calbreath
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some packages for Grant Fallert in the shotgun as the fastest player on the roster. Three-time all-state performer Aiden Heberlie has moved on to play baseball at Mizzou, leaving Drury and Grant Fallert as primary downfield targets.
2022August M28EgPA PREVIEWPIGSKIN
Drye will operate the offense in place of three-year starter Drew Felker after apparent
Knights must develop young roster quickly
MATT KING matt.king@lee.net FARMINGTON – A fleeting glance at the Farmington football depth chart may suggest that the program is entering an arduous re loading phase. But the Knights also faced uncertainty last season, including a complete overhaul of their offensive line, and still managed to deliver a solid 7-4Tworecord.ofthose losses were handed out by longtime rival North County, but a firstround district thumping also presented a valuable teach ing moment on character through adversity. Head coach Erik Kruppe implored his frustrated crew to finish the season with a flour ish after heading into halftime trailing the Raiders 42-13. “It’s a life lesson that things may not be going your way, but you have to keep on grinding and fighting,” said Kruppe, who enters his 10th season guiding Farmington. “You need to have pride that you’re wearing the black and gold, and represent in the proper way no matter theThecircumstances.”Knightsreturn just three offensive and three de fensive starters from 2021, and experience is scarce among a slimmer varsity roster of 32Theplayers.lineup has been affected not only by graduation, but also surprise departures and arrivals. The most notable offseason change resides at the quarterbackSophomorespot.Brett
Braydon Berry
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“We had no question in our minds that he would be good. The question was how fast that he would get himself ready for varsity competition,” Kruppe said. “The answer was pretty darnThefast.”Knights are sticking with a flexbone formation that rarely attacks through the air and has become a gradual rarity across the sport in favor of the widely popular spread. Drye brings good speed to the triple option, and has thrown effectively so far in practice. Senior transfer Owen Birkner is slated to back him up if Seniornecessary.Wyatt Skaggs can spell McClain in the backfield, while Kruppe foresees more ability to rotate at the wing spots, where sophomores Connor Rice and Birkner are ready to start.
“Our wing backs – between Jackson McDowell, Damien Cabrera, Connor Rice, and Owen Birkner – those kids run physically with their shoulders square to the line of scrimmage,” he said. “We’d like to think that we’ll be able to play a physical brand of offense this Receiversseason.”Braydon Berry and Adam Reissing shoul der heavy blocking duties along with an offensive line that brings back Josh Wy att and Bryce Kathcart as bookend tackles. The starting guards will 10/21 be junior newcomers Luke Birkner and Ayden Saunders –providing the largest presence up front – while sophomore Corey Crawford takes over at center.Felker was the Knights’ lone all-state selection last fall at free safety. Skilled junior Gabe Giuliani moves into that position, and assumes key leadership roles of directing the secondary and pursuing theSkaggsrun. and Wyatt return at middle and outside linebackers, respectively, and represent two of only four seniors in Gabe Giuliani Wyatt Skaggs
Preview 2022
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KNIGHTSFarmington 2021 Record: 7-4 (3-1 SEMO North) Head Coach – Erik Kruppe (10th season) Key returners – Kaesen McClain, soph., RB; Gabe Giuliani, jr., RB/LB; Wyatt Skaggs, jr., RB/LB; Braydon Berry, jr., RB/S; Bryce Kathcart, jr., OL/DE; Josh Wyatt, sr., OL/ LB; Damian Cabrera, jr., RB/LB 2022 Schedule: 8/26 – at North County 9/2 – Potosi 9/9 – at Jackson* 9/16 – Sikeston* 9/24 – at TDW Prep 9/30 – Cape Central* 10/7 – at Poplar Bluff* 10/14 – Festus
front-runner Jeremiah Cun ningham transferred to week opponentFarmingtonFestus.encountered a crucial turning point just four series into their season opener against North County when freshman Kaesen McClain was tapped to ignite a stalled rushingMcClainattack.netted 116 yards on just 11 powerful carries before his abbreviated debut was done, and soon earned all-conference honors in the SEMO North.
– at Central
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PREVIEWPIGSKIN M31PAGE 2022SuGAut HOURS: M-F 8-4:30 SAT: BYAPPT 5425HWY32FARMINGTON,MO63640 (573)756-7773•(573)756-7993 PARKLANDMONUMENT.COM
Pigskin Preview 2022 parkland memorial uniform. Cabrera goes to outside linebacker in his return from a season-ending injury.McClain and Luke Birkner serve as ends on a completely retooled front four, while Gage O’Harver and Saunders seek to lock down the interior.
Berry and Drye likewise handle two-way responsibilities at the corners with Rhett Kauflin and Ian Zohner also factoring into the secondary equation.
Rice and McDowell are competing at strong safety. Farmington must also establish a suitable replacement at place kicker for versatile weapon Brady Cook. For a squad that may require added emphasis on field position, punting duties have yet to be settled.
“We have athletes. Not all of them have experience on Friday nights, and some of them are younger, but they have ability,” Kruppe said. “How quickly some of them can grow into that Friday night responsibility will dictate our level of success. But we have some pieces there.”The Knights finished second last year in the SEMO North, which continues to be dominated by Jackson. After facing the Indians in week 3, a more favorable stretch follows with home dates against Sikeston and Cape Central plus a road encounter with True Divine Word Prep Academy. The regular season culminates with yet another nearby state playoff opponent at Central, which also replaces eight starters on each side of the ball. Kaesen McClain
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