Football Preview - August 2023

2023 HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Table Of Contents

Page 3: Broadway

Page 4: East Rockingham

Page 5: Fort Defiance

Page 6: Harrisonburg

Page 7: Luray

Page 8: Page County

Page 9: Spotswood

Page 10: Turner Ashby

Page 11: James Madison

Page 12: Bridgewater

Page 13: Shenandoah

Page 14: Virginia Tech

Page 15: Virginia

Page 16: West Virginia

Fort

Daniel Lin / DN-R

Defiance’s Carter Fink runs a drill during practice.

BROADWAY

FAST TRACK

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

BROADWAY — After winning just three games last year, Broadway is determined to get its program back on track this season and into playoff contention despite a young roster.

Gobblers head coach Danny Grogg said he was able to be around the BHS football program more than usual after not coaching baseball in the spring and feels his team is ahead of the curb after extensive offseason training that saw the team commit to improving on the field.

“We did a lot in the spring with practice stuff,” Grogg said. “We got to do mini camp together, and offense and defense went in then, so mini camp was our day one of practice.”

Grogg said the mini camp and spring training made the opening day of practice different, as they’re now focused on making fine-tuned adjustments heading into the season rather than starting from scratch. Grogg said the head start will pay dividends as the season begins.

“We’re hoping that when Week 1 comes around, we’re two weeks ahead of what we were last year,” Grogg said.

Grogg said there’s been an enthusiastic atmosphere in the Broadway camp as the season approaches but noted they have a smaller team than years prior — meaning everyone will have to step up.

“Our kids are excited to be out here,” Grogg said. “It’s a smaller group this year, [so] we’re going to have to be a lot tougher when it comes to mental toughness and physical toughness. We don’t have the wiggle room we usually have.”

Junior Caleb Estep attested to the positive energy the Gobblers carry into this year and that they’re all excited to take the field again.

“It’s a great atmosphere here,” Estep said. “It’s a home away from home for us, [and] we’re ecstatic to be back.”

Gobblers Hope Offseason Work Has Them Better Prepared

With the excitement comes motivation, as Estep said they don’t want to fall to the same results as last year.

Estep said the team is feeling determined to turn things around and find success this season.

“Going 3-7 is not very fun,” Estep said. “It’s a lot of disappointment. … It’s not something you want to experience again.”

A force to be reckoned with again this season will be wide receiver Ryder Post. Post, who received offers from Virginia Military Institute and Emory & Henry this offseason, is thrilled to take the field for another season and hopefully rack up some wins.

“Coming off kind of a down year like last year, we’ve been working a lot,” Post said. “We’re ready to get back on top.”

Broadway sophomore quarterback Uriah Rutan expects Post to be one of his key receivers this season. Over the offseason, Rutan believes the chemistry between him and the receivers grew tighter — something he felt they struggled with last year.

Rutan feels confident about finding his receivers, like Post, and making their

passing game stronger than ever.

“He’s going to be a big target for us this year,” Rutan said. “All of our receivers are pretty fast and our chemistry is a lot more improved this year.”

Rutan is excited for another year of Friday night lights and is determined to bring back a winning culture to Broadway football. Rutan doesn’t want to leave this season unsatisfied like they felt at

the season’s end a year ago, and he could play a big role in a turnaround.

“We don’t want to have that again,” Rutan said. “It didn’t feel good. We’re going to come back and win some ball games this year.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 25 vs. Fluvanna County

Aug. 31 at Strasburg

Sept. 8 at Waynesboro

Sept. 15 vs. Fort Defiance

Sept. 22 at Rockbridge County

Sept. 29 vs. Spotswood

Oct. 6 at Turner Ashby

Oct. 13 vs. William Monroe

Oct. 27 at East Rockingham

Nov. 3 vs. Harrisonburg

Photos by Daniel Lin / DN-R

LEFT: Broadway’s Zechariah Stuhlmiller runs the ball during practice. ABOVE: Broadway’s Peyton Nesselrodt closes in for a tackle during practice.

EAST ROCKINGHAM

NEW BEGINNINGS Eagles Determined For Success In First Valley District Season

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

ELKTON — After an up-and-down 2022 season, East Rockingham is seeking consistency.

With a senior-heavy offensive line and many other experienced returners, the Eagles are set for what they believe will be a successful season, as they now join the list of Valley District teams.

Second-year East Rock head coach

Drew Spitzer feels the team had an exceptional first week of practice, and the experienced offensive line has paid its benefits.

“When your line is your oldest group and your most experienced group, it usually makes practice go a little bit smoother,” Spitzer said. “We’ve probably had the best week of football I’ve ever been associated with, so we’re feeling pretty good about where we are.”

In his second season with the Eagles, Spitzer said he better understands how things work.

Spitzer believes their spring training has them ahead of where they were at this point a year prior and that many showed up for the offseason.

“We had great attendance and consistent attendance in our offseason program,” Spitzer said. “I think when you see where we are. … You can tell our guys showed up and our guys put in the work this summer.”

For the last three years, Spitzer said they’ve been labeled as a relatively young program until this year.

Spitzer is excited to see what a more experienced East Rock program can do.

“Most of our seniors were starting games as freshmen and sophomores,” Spitzer said. “We’re no longer that young team in Elkton, we’re now a senior group. … It’s nice to have a senior-led group for sure.”

One of those seniors is All-Region offensive guard Jaiden Sweet. Sweet said the atmosphere has been positive throughout the first week and believes the players want to wear the Eagles uniform more than ever.

With eyes on the offensive line this year, Sweet said there isn’t any added pressure to perform but noted that he realizes they’re a crucial asset to the team.

“I don’t know about the rest of the linemen, but to me, it’s just recognition,” Sweet said. “People are just now realizing that we’re a big factor. We might not have been a great offensive line last year or years before that, but this year’s going to be different.”

Senior receiver Damien Durrette attests to the positive energy they’re carrying heading into Week 1 and believes they haven’t had a bad practice yet. Durrette also expects the offensive line to be a pivotal piece of this year’s team.

“They’ve been putting in work,” Durrette said. “If we have them blocking, [quarterbacks] can get the ball out [and] running backs can get yards.”

With seniority comes leadership, and Sweet said they’ve been hands-on in helping the younger players get into the flow of things, adding they don’t just sit there and watch them do something wrong.

“We’re there to help so the coaches don’t have to stop,” Sweet said. “It just moves along faster when people know what they’re doing and can help the people that don’t.”

Durrette said there’s a weight on his shoulders going into this year, knowing he is responsible for being a leader.

“From last year, [I’m] being more involved with the team and being more positive,” Durrette said. “It’s been a lot better than last year.”

Sweet attested to the topsy-turvy re-

sults of last year. He felt they found success but ultimately couldn’t stay on track. Sweet believes if they can find consistency, the results will follow.

“If we stay on the right track this year, we can really go 10-0 if we wanted to,” Sweet said.

Spitzer said the way they lost in the playoffs last year left a sour taste in their mouths, and the seniors don’t want that experience again. Spitzer is most looking forward to watching the offensive line perform in what, for many of them, is their final season.

“We’re really excited for that group in particular,” Spitzer said. “They’ve certainly paid the price this offseason. When I go to install, I say, ‘Hey, is our offensive line ready to do this?’ The answer’s yes, and we install. … I’m just looking forward to getting out, hitting somebody that’s not wearing East Rock uniforms, and seeing how our guys have picked up on what we’re trying to install.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 25 at Luray

Sept. 1 at Central

Sept. 8 vs. Page County

Sept. 15 vs. Buffalo Gap

Sept. 22 at Harrisonburg

Sept. 29 vs. Rockbridge County

Oct. 6 at Spotswood

Oct. 13 vs. Turner Ashby

Oct. 20 at William Monroe

Oct. 27 vs. Broadway

East Rockingham’s Nick Lambert runs through a drill during practice.

Daniel Lin / DN-R

FORT DEFIANCE

SEASONED

Indians Relying On Experience

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

FORT DEFIANCE — Fort Defiance has hit the ground running as Week 1 of the season nears.

The Indians enter this season with much optimism, and head coach Dan Rolfe said they’re anxious to take the field, hoping to get back to winning ways.

Rolfe said the team recently traveled to Shenandoah University for a mini-camp, an experience he said was fun for everyone, and they’ve carried that energy over into practice

“We got a great head start,” Rolfe said. “It’s carried over to the start of practice.”

One of Rolfe’s most significant takeaways from the Shenandoah mini camp is that it’s highly beneficial when their team has the experience, noting that they’ve been a younger program in recent years.

“Now, it kinda feels like you’ve planted the seed and they’ve grown,” Rolfe said. “They know the drills [and] they know what they’re doing, so now that that’s happening, we can kinda push.”

The Indians are made up of all upperclassmen and 10 sophomores. Rolfe feels the sophomore class brings a different look to the program, and a few will be relied on this season.

“I don’t think we’re going to have to play any ninth graders, which is great for them,” Rolfe said. “They get a year playing at [junior varsity] and get to grow into it. I think there are a lot of sophomores that are going to contribute this year.”

Fort Defiance went 3-7 last season. Junior quarterback Trey Miller said there was much promise to turn the program around last year, but now, it’s time to make it happen.

“I felt like we thought we could’ve done that last year,” Miller said. “I feel like we all think we have to do it this year.”

Miller has enjoyed working with his

wide receivers in the first few practices, noting he is glad the team is back together as they gear up for the start of the season.

“We’ve been working all summer, so it’s just nice to see it all put together,” Miller said.

Taking the field for the last time this year is senior tight end Carter Fink.

It’s hard for Fink to believe it’s his last season with the Indians, but he wants to go out with a bang.

“I feel like my heart is pounding each and every day,” Fink said. “It’s weird how close it is to the end, but I feel like this year, we’re going to come out and it’s going to be a good ending.”

Fink said the heart-pounding feelings are of anxiety, adding that it’s scary to know he has a minimum 10 football games remaining.

“I’ve been playing my whole life,” Fink said. “I’m trying to get the guys riled up and I’m trying to make it more than 10 this year.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 25 vs. Turner Ashby

Sept. 1 at Alleghany County

Sept. 8 at Riverheads

Sept. 15 at Broadway

Sept. 22 vs. Madison County

Sept. 29 vs. Waynesboro

Oct. 6 at Stuarts Draft

Oct. 13 vs. Wilson Memorial

Oct. 27 vs. Staunton

Nov. 3 at Buffalo Gap

HARRISONBURG

TIME TO FEAST Blue Streaks Opening Camp Hungry For Success

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

Harrisonburg football is looking to turn things around this fall after going all last season without putting a number in the win column.

With many new players mixed in with a senior quarterback and running back, the Blue Streaks are in full swing with preseason practices as they prepare for the upcoming season.

HHS head coach Kyle Gillenwater is entering his third season as the head coach and spoke at Harrisonburg’s first practice this past Friday.

Gillenwater said that with any new season comes much anticipation and optimism.

“I’m particularly excited for this year,” Gillenwater said. “We’ve got 30-plus new players. There’ll be a lot of surprises, and I’m looking forward to seeing what we can get done.”

Senior quarterback JJ Engle takes the HHS field for the final time this year, and while it’s a bittersweet feeling, Engle was excited to be back for his last first day of practice.

“I’ve been waiting all summer to get back out here,” Engle said. “I’m sure everybody else has, so we’re all excited.”

With many new players joining the program, Engle feels a sense of responsibility as one of the experienced guys to help show them the ropes.

“They need someone to look at and see what to do, and what’s right and wrong,” Engle said. “I feel like I can help with that.”

Also returning for his senior season is running back Aaron McAfee Jr., who said they’re hungry for success after a dismal 2022 season.

“We’ve got good numbers,” McAfee Jr. said. “I think we’ve got a really good team

this year, so I think we’ll come out ready to fight.”

McAfee said a fresh crop of young talent helps them continue to build and allows them to go into this season with a clean slate.

McAfee added that it’s nice also to have some similar faces, such as Engle, returning this year to maintain a bond and build the team camaraderie.

“[It’s] just nice to have that team chemistry,” McAfee Jr. said. “Knowing that there’s still some of us [here], and then new people to join in, bring along, and bring up with us.”

Gillenwater is hopeful about what his seniors, such as Engle and McAfee, can accomplish this year.

He described Engle and McAfee as two great kids who have been working hard as the season approaches.

“I hope for their sake, they can have a great year and go out with a bang,” Gillenwater said. “They’ve had a good offseason, so we’ll keep our fingers crossed.”

Gillenwater has high standards set for his team this year, and while it may take time for the younger guys to get their feet under them, he believes it’ll start to work itself out.

“If you don’t expect much, you don’t get much,” Gillenwater said. “We’ll be fine. We’ve got a lot of people who have to learn some things [and] fill some holes with people who have graduated, but we’ll be fine.”

McAfee Jr. also believes it’s a promising year for the Streaks and feels that they can rack up some victories if they keep a positive attitude.

“I have high expectations for me and my teammates as well,” McAfee said. “Just to play hard, have good attitudes all year, and get some wins.”

Engle said it’s mixed emotions going into his final season at Harrisonburg. He

believes now is the time to show his full potential, as he knows his time in a Streaks uniform is limited.

“All the work that I’ve put in, this is the last time to show it off,” Engle said. “It’s a little bit sad, but I’m excited.”

McAfee felt similar when jogging to the practice field for their last first day.

While he said it’s upsetting that this year marks his last season, he’s excited to

try and help turn things around for Harrisonburg football in 2023.

“I’ve dreamed of this day, but never thought about it coming true,” McAfee Jr. said. “We’re here, we’re ready to play, and ready to go out and have fun.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 26 vs. Millbrook

Sept. 2 at John Handley

Sept. 15 at Orange County

Sept. 22 vs. East Rockingham

Sept. 29 vs. Amherst County

Oct. 6 at Rockbridge County

Oct. 13 vs. Spotswood

Oct. 20 at Turner Ashby

Oct. 27 vs. William Monroe

Nov. 3 at Broadway

Harrisonburg players line up before a drill during practice.

Daniel Lin / DN-R

NEW ERA Bulldogs Ready For Season Under

First-Year Head Coach

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

LURAY — Under a new leader, Luray is focused on continuing its winning ways this season.

After a seven-year run under Nolan Jeffries, first-year head coach Lynn Hamilton will look to build on last year’s success, when the Bulldogs went 9-3 and were one win shy of the Region 2B title game.

Yet, don’t mistake the “first-year” title as a lack of experience, as Hamilton has been embedded in the Luray football program since 1993 in various coaching roles. Hamilton believes familiarity with the players and knowing their capabilities is beneficial in stepping into the new position.

“You know them, what they can do, and what they can bring to the program,” Hamilton said. “You hopefully put them in the best position to help the team and continue success.”

Hamilton said it’s always exciting to get a new season going and believes the most formidable challenge at the start of the season is getting the players in the football mentality.

“Hopefully we can continue the success that we’ve had the last couple of years here,” Hamilton said. “The hardest thing is, they’re coming back from the summer and getting them focused on football, because they’re still thinking [about] summer.”

Described by Hamilton as the “freshman phenom” last year, running back Cason Bryant will look to elevate his game even more in his sophomore season. Bryant said the mindset in the season’s early stages is centered around simply working hard.

“Work harder in practice so you don’t have to work as hard in the game,” Bryant said. “Just hustle up, that’s about it.”

Hamilton said this year’s focus will be on one game at a time, and for Bryant, he knows how to stay in that mindset.

“Each week, you have to get in that mindset that you’ve got to be ready for the next game coming,” Bryant said. “You’ve got to make sure you’re working hard and stay focused, pretty much.”

Returning this year in a leadership mindset is senior Braden Ancell. The season starts with getting to practice on time, Ancell said, and it’s part of his job as a leader to ensure everyone’s on time.

Ancell said the key is to be friendly and uplifting, ensuring everyone stays on task rather than talking down to his teammates.

“You have to say it as a friend,” Ancell said. “You can’t come as a mean person, you have to come as a friend and make them want to come. You have to be that nice friend to guide them to want to come to practice. That’s where it starts off.”

Hamilton said senior quarterback Ryder Liscomb has also stepped up as a leader in helping his teammates buy into the program.

“Ryder’s been our Swiss Army knife,” Hamilton said. “He played quarterback

last year, he’s played some tight end, we got him working at [wide] receiver [and] running back. … Where we need him, we can put him.”

Liscomb isn’t the only Bulldog versatile in his positions, as Ancell is used to seeing playing time on both sides of the ball. Ancell said he loves getting to play both offense and defense.

“I get to see both sides of the field,” Ancell said. “Get to see both [sides] of trash talk, get to take it out on defense, [and] run the ball on offense. I love it.”

Luray’s focusing on one day at a time, and Hamilton is looking forward to the

process. While Hamilton is hopeful his Bulldogs can make another run at the playoffs, he’s excited about the season’s journey.

“It’s just exciting to get ready for the next team and see if we can get these guys in position to be successful,” Hamilton said. “Hopefully, with their physical ability and us putting them in the right spot, they can play well enough to win the ballgame.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

PAGE COUNTY

MOTIVATED Hard-Working Panthers Hoping To Turn Things Around

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

SHENANDOAH — The roster is smaller than usual but hasn’t changed the optimism.

Page County enters this fall optimistic that it can turn things around in a big way for the program despite a roster that doesn’t have quite as much depth as previous seasons.

The Panthers said they are working harder than ever in preparation for the season’s opening kickoff as they look to redeem themselves following a 3-7 season a year ago.

Panthers second-year head coach James May is confident in the team’s direction this season, as he noted that he feels this has been the best offseason for the program he’s ever seen in his nearly two decades of involvement with the Page County football program.

“It’s translated well to the kids already gelling together,” May said. “The attitudes are right [and] well-conditioned, which we need to be.”

May thinks the exceptional offseason work is the players coming to the realization that they’re a small team and they won’t have 50 varsity guys taking the field. May said he also believes a plethora of wrestlers joining the team has paid benefits, especially on the lines.

“They realize that on Friday nights, some are going to have to play both ways,” May said. “Those wrestlers come in in-shape, and I think it sets a model for what you want your other guys to be like.”

Some added motivation from last year’s results is another factor in the

hard work put in over the summer, May said. The head coach noted that key injuries and getting a feel of the coaching staff were detriments to last season’s record.

“We’ll take some of that on our shoulders,” May said regarding the coaching. “We learned a lot, the kids realized what one or two injuries on a [small] roster’ll do to you. I think [this season], they’ve really bought into getting in shape and preventing injuries.”

Behind center for the Panthers is senior quarterback Hunter Pettit, who’s gearing up for what he said is “the last dance.”

May said one can expect to see a tough kid who takes his job very seriously in Pettit this season.

“He’s one of those guys that has waited his turn,” May said. “He’s worked hard to get the spot that he deserves to play in. He’s respected by

his teammates, he’s a leader, [and] has a great attitude. When it’s on the line, I think he’s going to be a really good player for us.”

Pettit said it feels great getting prepared for a new season and attests to the quality offseason training they’ve had — stating that everyone has stepped up and is working harder.

“It’s the best [offseason] we’ve had in a while,” Pettit said. “It just feels like everybody wants to be here. It feels great.”

Another player to watch for on the Panthers roster is senior defensive tackle Nick Moore.

Moore is excited to be back on the field and said the team is working hard to return to winning ways.

Moore said it’s a great feeling to have May back for his second year as head coach, adding that he’s no stranger to Panthers football.

“He’s always been around here,” Moore said. “We know him, so that’s

helped a lot. It feels good.”

A three-win season a year ago left an empty feeling in the Page County camp, which is why Pettit feels confident about the Panthers’ chances to turn the tables in 2023.

“We’re pretty motivated,” Pettit said. “We don’t want a season like last season. We’re going to definitely turn it around this season and do better.”

May said it seems like they’ve been practicing for a year now because of the lengthy offseason. With organizational aspects, such as picture day, out of the way, May said it’s time to play football. May is looking forward to seeing the pieces fall into place as the season gets underway.

“[I’m] really excited about what I think we’re going to be good at, [and] just displaying that to see if my thoughts are coming true,” May said.

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 25 at Washington

Sept. 1 at Bath County

Sept. 8 at East Rockingham

Sept. 15 vs. King and Queen Central

Sept. 22 vs. Mountain View

Oct. 6 vs. Strasburg

Oct. 13 at Clarke County

Oct. 20 vs. Madison County

Oct. 27 at Central

Nov. 3 vs. Luray

Daniel Lin / DN-R

Page County’s Hunter Pettit winds up a pass during practice.

SPOTSWOOD

STEPPING STONE

Trailblazers Aiming To Build On Last Year’s Success

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

PENN LAIRD — It’s a new season for Spotswood, and the enthusiasm is high.

Trailblazers head coach Dale Shifflett said the enthusiasm could be felt in the air in Penn Laird, as a productive offseason has the experienced squad ready to go in hopes of reaching winning a Valley District title and beyond this fall.

“We did a lot of things in the offseason to be able to stay together as a team and work on some things,” Shifflett said. “Now, being official, it’s good excitement in the air with the guys.”

The Trailblazers have many familiar pieces returning to the program, such as quarterback Elliott Brown and wide receiver Matthew Craig. Shifflett said they’ve also acquired a lot of new faces, some from the basketball team, and everyone is ready to showcase their skills.

“We’re planning on the athleticism part helping us a little bit and providing us some depth,” Shifflett said. “For them

[the new players], it’s about getting them in the football mentality and learning the plays. We have about 48 guys out here that are 10th-12th [grade]. … We have a lot of skilled guys, so it’s about finding some pieces of where everybody’s going to fit.”

Craig, a senior, said last year’s senior class showed them the way and taught them the ways of Spotswood football.

Craig said it’s essential for his senior class to carry on that legacy this season.

“They showed us how to achieve success,” Craig said. “I think this year, it’s a big deal to us. They showed us what we need to do for a lot of us to step up this year.”

Brown, a junior, is taking the field this season with a better understanding of the game after a productive year behind center in his sophomore season.

“It’s a lot different than practice [when] playing in a game,” Brown said. “The best way to learn is through playing, so I think the experience with the team really helped a lot.”

Brown won’t be the only Trailblazers

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 25 at Rustburg

Sept. 1 at Western Albemarle

Sept. 8 vs. Wilson Memorial

Sept. 15 vs. Charlottesville

Sept. 22 vs. William Monroe

Sept. 29 at Broadway

Oct. 6 vs. East Rockingham

Oct. 13 at Harrisonburg

Oct. 20 vs. Rockbridge County

Nov. 3 at Turner Ashby

seeing action at the quarterback spot, as fellow junior quarterback Camden Langridge returns from injury this season. While it’s unknown who will be the starter, Shifflett is pleased to have two capable candidates.

“We have two guys that have proven themselves with some game experience that we’re counting on,” Shifflett said. “They’ll both have their opportunities, and we’ll go with the best one.”

Brown believes the team is coming together nicely through preseason and is better than in previous years.

He said the coaches are seeing the positive energy the team is carrying, and it’s been a confidence boost for everyone.

“It’s different some seasons prior, because I think we’re really together more this year,” Brown said.

Craig and the senior class plan to set the exact high expectations the previous class set for them.

Craig said he’s enjoyed watching the new guys come in wanting to learn.

“They’re all eager to learn,” Craig said. “It’s fun to see them come out, want to

get reps, jump in, [and] do whatever they need to be doing to get on the field. … If they ever need help, I’m there to tell them what they need to do [to] get better.”

With any new season comes excitement, and seeing how the team grows over the year is what Shifflett anticipates most.

Shifflett said they’ve made replacements on the offensive and defensive line, and he’s looking forward to seeing the finished product.

“I’m looking forward to just seeing how those guys grow and get better as the season progresses,” Shifflett said.

Craig has high hopes for what they can achieve, but he’s most looking forward to enjoying the ride throughout his senior season.

“I’m looking to have fun with the boys,” Craig said. “Hopefully go far and make it a longer season than last year, but the goal is to have fun and win games.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

TURNER ASHBY

NEXT STEP Mature Knights Seeking More Success

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

BRIDGEWATER — Turner Ashby is entering this season with high hopes.

After claiming the Valley District title and advancing through the first round of the Region 3C tournament last year, the Knights are determined to go even further this season.

Led by 21 seniors returning to the program, second-year TA head coach Scott Turner said he believes everyone is excited about this season.

Turner is happy that many familiar faces are returning to the field, but their expectations remain unchanged.

“With 21 seniors, it’s nice, but our goal is to get better each day,” Turner said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a sophomore, junior, [or] senior. It is nice to have that leadership and have the camaraderie that group has leading the way.”

After a breakout season behind center a year ago, senior quarterback Micah Shank looks to add to what he accomplished.

Shank said the energy could be felt throughout Bridgewater, as they can tell they’re ready for a new season.

The Knights took down rival Spotswood in the first round of the regional tournament, but a lopsided loss to Liberty Christian Academy in the semifinals ended their hopes of making it to the state tournament.

Shank is determined to return to the same point and beyond this year.

“We all want more,” Shank said. “We didn’t think that was enough, [so] we’re going to go farther and be more successful.”

Another critical piece returning to the TA field this season is running back Beau Baylor.

The junior said it’s nice to put the shoulder pads on and gear up for this season, as the months of offseason training are building to the season’s opening kickoff.

Baylor said he believes the senior class will be beneficial throughout the year, and they’ll be able to use their experience to help show the younger players the ropes.

“They bring a lot of leadership,” Baylor said. “They’ve played for multiple years, so they can help out all the younger kids and show what a winning team looks like.”

As Baylor described, some younger kids have progressed nicely throughout the preseason.

Turner has his eye on Garrett Jennings, Mason Judd, and Colton McDorman, who he said have all done a great job so far.

“We definitely have some younger pieces there that are coming and going and pushing themselves,” Turner said.

Baylor said the team is incredibly motivated to achieve more success this year and believes they have what it takes to do big things.

“That’s what we’re aiming for,” Baylor said. “That loss to LCA really helps us now, because we know how hard we need to work to get back there and further.”

The Knights have greatness on their minds, but for Turner, he’s keyed in on taking one step at a time and simply getting better over the course of the season.

“That’s what we focus on,” Turner said. “We take it one day at a time, and we want to leave each day as better football players

than we were before, so that’s always our expectation.”

Turner is most looking forward to coaching a tight-knit group whose passion for the game is unmatched, as he describes his team as a hard-working group that genuinely loves football.

“They truly love the game,” Turner said. “It’s a lot of fun to coach them, be-

cause they want to be here, they want to work, and they want to compete. They’re one of the most competitive groups I’ve ever been around, so we’re fortunate as a coaching staff to be able to coach them.” Contact

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Aug. 25 at Fort Defiance

Sept. 1 at Wilson Memorial

Sept. 8 vs. Monticello

Sept. 15 vs. Waynesboro

Sept. 29 at William Monroe

Oct. 6 vs. Broadway

Oct. 13 at East Rockingham

Oct. 20 vs. Harrisonburg

Oct. 27 at Rockbridge County

Nov. 3 vs. Spotswood

Daniel Lin / DN-R

Turner Ashby’s Beau Baylor runs a drill during practice.

JAMES MADISON UNIVERSITY

‘USED TO IT’ Dukes

Embracing High Expectations In Year No. 2 In SBC

By NOAH FLEISCHMAN Daily News-Record

When James Madison coach Curt Cignetti took the stage at the Sun Belt Conference’s Media Day in late July, a certain type of confidence flowed as he talked.

The fifth-year coach, who led the Dukes to the top of the East Division last fall, wasn’t worried about added pressure after the conference’s preseason poll was released, even though his team was picked at the top of it.

“We are accustomed to being ranked No. 1,” Cignetti said. “We’ve won seven of the last eight conference championships over the last eight seasons … and our guys are used to being ranked No. 1.”

This year is no different as the Dukes are used to the target on their backs, which they’ll enter conference play with this fall.

But while the Dukes are the league favorite, JMU will replace a number of key players on its offense in 2023.

JMU will feature a new starting quarterback after Todd Centeio exhausted his eligibility at the end of last fall. The Dukes entered fall camp with a quarterback battle between Arizona transfer Jordan McCloud, redshirt sophomore Billy Atkins, and redshirt freshmen Alonza Barnett III and Brett Griffis

As JMU’s quarterback competition continued into fall camp, Cignetti opted to not take questions on the battle and said that he’ll speak on it once he has something to say on it.

While the quarterback battle rages on, the Dukes also have a position competition at wide receiver after JMU returned just two players that caught

a pass last season: Reggie Brown and Payton Hunter.

Cignetti addressed that positional depth issue through the portal by adding a quartet of receivers: East Caroli-

na’s Taji Hudson, North Dakota State’s Phoenix Sproles, South Florida’s Omarion Dollison and St. Francis (Pa.)’s Elijah Sarratt.

The rest of the offense has quality

depth with a lot of playing experience. The entire starting offensive line is back from last fall, as well as the Dukes’ top three reserve linemen. In addition to the line, JMU only lost one running back, but added Stony Brook transfer Ty Son Lawton to keep the depth of the room.

Defensively, the Dukes returned seven starters from last fall, including all-conference defensive lineman James Carpenter and a standout linebacker duo of Taurus Jones and Jailin Walker.

JMU’s secondary is a mix of youth and veterans as the team has five seniors at safety, but a senior, Devyn Coles, and two sophomores, Brent Austin and Chauncey Logan, as the team’s top three cornerbacks.

The Dukes will open the season against Bucknell on Sept. 2 at 6 p.m. inside Bridgeforth Stadium.

Contact Noah Fleischman at 540-574-6296 or nfleischman@dnronline.com | Follow Noah on Twitter: @fleischman_noah

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Sept. 2 vs. Bucknell

Sept. 9 at Virginia

Sept. 16 at Troy

Sept. 23 at Utah State

Sept. 30 vs. South Alabama

Oct. 14 vs. Georgia Southern

Oct. 19 at Marshall

Oct. 28 vs. Old Dominion

Nov. 4 at Georgia State

Nov. 11 vs. Connecticut

Nov. 18 vs. Appalachian State

Nov. 25 at Coastal Carolina

Photos by Daniel Lin / DN-R

LEFT: James Madison’s Alonza Barnett III waits for a receiver during practice. RIGHT: James Madison’s Phoenix Sproles turns upfield after making a catch during practice.

BRIDGEWATER COLLEGE

ONE AT A TIME Bridgewater Determined To Build On Last Year’s Success

By JOHN BREEDEN Daily News-Record

There’s a lot of optimism within the Bridgewater football camp heading into this season.

With many familiar faces returning to the program, the Eagles are aiming to set the bar one step higher after going 9-1 a year ago and finishing second in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference.

Bridgewater head coach Scott Lemn is set for his third year at the helm. Lemn said there’s always a lot of excitement at this time of year, but especially for them.

“We haven’t physically seen a lot of these guys in a couple of months,” Lemn said. “[It’s great] to get back around the energy that these men bring, to see the enthusiasm that they have for their teammates, and for the season upcoming.”

From a program standpoint, Lemn felt there weren’t many outside expectations last year, but there’s always internal expectations for any season. Lemn believes they can be in contention for the ODAC title this year, but it’s still too early to tell.

“Ultimately, we want to get better all the time,” Lemn said. “There’s a new challenge ahead, and we’d like to think that we can put ourselves in a conversation at the end of the season to potentially win the ODAC.”

Preseason practice is still in its early stages, Lemn said, therefore he’s been unable to gauge what the incoming freshmen bring to the table. Yet, Lemn has his eye on many returners who have stepped up.

Lemn is hopeful about guys like Cameron Martindale, who’s coming off an injury, and Tristan Gordon, who Lemn felt was getting into a groove last year after

taking a few years off from football.

“It’s more of some of our returners that I’ve got a better idea about right now that are taking that next step,” Lemn said.

Returning behind center for his fifth year in the program is graduate student quarterback Malcolm Anderson. Anderson over 1400 passing yards for 11 touchdowns and eight rushing touchdowns last season.

Anderson believes everyone is excited to be back, but they’re staying humble and are focused on building on last season’s success.

“We’re just trying to make sure it doesn’t get to our heads,” Anderson said. “We’re trying to build off what we did last year, but at the same time, we’re trying to erase it out of our heads. It’s a new season [and] we’ve got new players.”

Anderson is focused on cherishing every moment possible in his final season, and plans on leading the team to the best of his ability.

“[I’m] just coming out, embracing the little things, [and] embracing the competition,” Anderson said. “[I’m] making sure I can help lead the team in the right way so we can reach our goal.”

The Eagles went undefeated at Jopson Athletic Complex last season. Anderson said that was a major point last year, noting that they have a great game day atmosphere and no one wants to lose at home.

“We come out in all maroon at home, and we expect to win at home,” Anderson said. “It’s an expectation to defend our home turf.”

Redshirt senior cornerback Aaron Moore returns after recording 78 total tackles and three interceptions, returning two for touchdowns, last season. While Moore said the Eagles are

motivated to take the next step, they’ve entered this season with a different approach.

“We’ve actually been harping on discipline over motivation lately,” Moore said. “You might not be as motivated [one] day, but you have to be disciplined to get through the practice and take everything seriously. That’s the goal we want to have, so we have good practices every day and hopefully have a good game on Saturday.”

Moore feels it’s easy to put last season away mentally because, in his mind, they didn’t win anything.

“We’re coming in second, but that doesn’t mean anything,” Moore said. “We want first.”

Bridgewater’s motto throughout last year was to go 1-0 every week, and Moore said they’re still carrying that mindset into this season.

“Right now, we’re just focusing on getting better in camp,” Moore said. “We’re not even really focused on the first team right now. Throughout the season, it’s the team we’re playing that week, and just

that team. We’re not going to look back and we’re not going to look forward.”

Contact John Breeden at 540-574-6291 or jbreeden@dnronline.com. | Follow John on Twitter: @John_R_Breeden

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Sept. 2 vs. Susquehanna

Sept. 9 at Southern Virginia

Sept. 16 vs. N.C. Wesleyan

Sept. 30 at Hampden-Sydney

Oct. 7 at Shenandoah

Oct. 14 vs. Randolph-Macon

Oct. 21 at Averett

Oct. 28 vs Ferrum

Nov. 4 at Washington and Lee

Nov. 11 at Guilford

Daniel Lin / DN-R

Bridgewater head coach Scott Lemn watches his team during practice.

SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY

STRONG, STEADY

SU Looking To Continue Strong Leadership Structure

By ROBERT NIEDZWIECKI

For The Daily News-Record

WINCHESTER — The 2022 Shenandoah University football season was one that the Hornets won’t soon forget, not after matching a program record for wins and doing better in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference than it ever has before. The challenge now is following up on

RIGHT: Shenandoah University quarterback Steven Hugney hands off to a teammate during drills on the first day of practice.

BELOW: Shenandoah University senior right tackle David Munoz (center) participates in conditioning drills with teammates on the first day of practice.

that success without the services of an unforgettable group of leaders.

Sixteen graduate students and seniors have departed from the Hornets, who held their first practice on Thursday at Shentel Stadium. They went 8-2 overall (matching the 2003 team record for most wins) and 5-2 in the ODAC last year. That was the most conference wins for SU since it joined the ODAC in 2012, and it helped

them finish in third place in the eightteam league. The Hornets had never finished higher than fourth.

The skills of departed players like nose guard Mason Caldwell, who is now an assistant coach at Handley High School, and linebacker Ben Burgan (both All-Americans) and running back Rashadeen Byrd, Jr., wide receiver Ethan Bigbee and defensive end Jordan Rice (all All-ODAC selections) played a big role in that success, but their approach to the game was just as important.

“Those guys had played so much football for us and been through so much on and off the field, so that leadership was a huge deal,” said 11th-year head coach Scott Yoder in an interview last week. “I don’t think there’s another Mason Caldwell right now, that type of leader in the program. We’ve got two captains coming back [in junior quarterback Steven Hugney and senior right tackle David Munoz], but [the leadership situation] changes every year.

“I like where we are right now, but I think the biggest question mark is who kind of fills those roles that aren’t necessarily played out on the field as far as pro-

duction, but more leadership in the locker room, leadership in the weight room. We were pretty strong in that department. Can we get back to that?”

The Hornets will play six of their 10 games at home this year. SU will have three straight home non-conference games to begin the season (Sept. 2 against Methodist is the opener) before opening ODAC play on Sept. 30 at Ferrum.

The Hornets are looking forward to a big season because of how much faith they have in themselves from going 15-5 the past two seasons.

“Anything you do, when you work hard and you see the results, you’re going to have the confidence,” Wilder said. “If you make sure you’re doing everything you’re supposed to do, when game time comes, there’s nothing but confidence, no matter the opponent.”

Munoz said the Hornets aren’t putting limits on themselves.

“We were 7-3 and then 8-2, and the coaches are preaching that 10-0 is the goal,” Munoz said. “If we’re steady on the incline, we can reach our goals. The guys coming back, they know that.”

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Sept. 2 vs. Methodist

Sept. 16 vs. Maryville College

Sept. 23 vs. Juniata

Sept. 30 at Ferrum

Oct. 7 vs. Bridgewater

Oct. 14 at Guilford

Oct. 21 at Randolph-Macon

Oct. 28 vs. Averett

Nov. 4 at Hampden-Sydney

Nov. 11 vs. Washington and Lee

Photos by Jeff Taylor / For The DN-R

VIRGINIA TECH

ROUND TWO Hokies Seeking Improvement In Second Season Under Pry

By SHANE METTLEN Daily News-Record

One thing is certain as Brent Pry begins his second season as Virginia Tech’s head coach. His team needs to improve on offense.

The Hokies put up just 19.3 points per game last season, the worst scoring output in Blacksburg since 1989. An offense that generated 313.5 yards per game ranked 120th in FBS and next-to-last in the ACC. Combined with an average defense, Virginia Tech limped to a 3-8 record, winning just one game in ACC play.

Pry is hopeful that transfer additions and increased experience for offensive coordinator Tyler Bowen will result in more touchdown celebrations for the Hokies.

“Just another year for Tyler Bowen as a play caller, I know what it’s like when

it’s year one,” Pry said at ACC Media Days. “There’s growing pains…At the same time we had to go out and get some explosive playmakers, and we did that. Three guys in that wide receiver room, with Ali (Jennings) being one of them, a tailback. We just did some things that were necessary to allow us to have a better opportunity to create big plays.”

Jennings is one of the most intriguing additions on a Virginia Tech roster that added 35 new scholarship players, perhaps giving quarterback Grant Wells the playmaking target on the outside he sorely lacked in 2022.

Jennings grabbed five catches for 122 yards playing for Old Dominion last season when the Monarchs defeated the Hokies in Norfolk. That season opening loss set the tone for both Virginia Tech and Wells.

The Marshall transfer had statistically the worst season of his career, completing 59 percent of his passes for 2,171 yards with nine touchdowns and nine interceptions. Jennings anticipates being able to help improve those numbers along with fellow transfers Jaylin Lane (Middle Tennessee) and Da’Quan Felton (Norfolk State).

“I see it being a fun year watching us this year,” Jennings said. “I like everything that Coach Bowen is about. He is aggressive. He is very smart. Like just talking to him about different concepts and how he wants us to play and things that he sees for us. It’s going to be exciting to be in it, and hopefully we make it exciting for everyone to watch because we have a lot of good players, returning players and new guys.”

Of course, even with the upgrade in talent, the Hokies believe better execution on the offensive side could also make a big difference.

“Coach talks about our fundamentals all the time,” fifth-year tight end Nick

Gallo said. “I think this offseason especially with us not being satisfied with the season we had last year, really honing in on the competition aspect this offseason, winter, summer, spring. Every single rep is being charted, win or loss. I think flipping that mindset to competing and going out and winning is really going to benefit us.”

Contact Shane Mettlen at 540-574-6244 or smettlen@dnronline.com. | Follow Shane on Twitter: @Shane_DNRSports

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Sept. 2 vs. Old Dominion

Sept. 9 vs. Purdue

Sept. 16 at Rutgers

Sept. 23 at Marshall

Sept. 30 vs. Pittsburgh

Oct. 7 at Florida State

Oct. 14 vs. Wake Forest

Oct. 26 vs. Syracuse

Nov. 4 at Louisville

Nov. 11 at Boston College

Nov. 18 vs. NC State

Nov. 25 at Virginia

Virginia Tech head coach Brent Pry speaks during the Atlantic Coast Conference media days in July.

Virginia Tech wide receiver Ali Jennings speaks during the Atlantic Coast Conference media days.

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA

‘READY FOR IT’

Hollins Returns As Inspiration To Virginia Teammates

By HANK KURZ JR. Associated Press

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Virginia running back Mike Hollins knows he will never be the same, and admits that the position of football on his priorities list “has shrunk.” He still can’t wait to run onto the field with his Cavaliers brothers for their opener this season.

“I can only imagine the emotions that’ll be flowing through my body. I just — I literally can’t. I have no words because the spring game hit me like a sack of rocks, and I didn’t expect it at all, so I can only imagine,” he said. “I’m ready, though. I’m ready for it.”

Hollins, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was one of two survivors of a shooting last November that left three teammates dead. He was shot in the back, needed several surgeries and spent a week in the hospital before beginning a long rehabilitation.

The shootings, which also left student Marlee Morgan injured, rocked the team and the community and caused the Cavaliers to cancel their final two games.

Hollins uplifted his teammates when he returned for spring practices four months later, even though he wasn’t cleared for full contact yet. That came about midway through the 15 sessions, and he scored on a 1-yard touchdown run in the spring game.

On that day, Hollins said, “I just felt free from my mind,” and all the horror planted there that November night. “I mean, it was a lot easier just to play ball.”

He celebrated the touchdown by placing the ball on the name of D’Sean Perry, painted in the end zone along with those of Lavel Davis Jr. and Devin Chandler, those killed on a school bus returning from a field trip to Washington, D.C. A former Virginia player, Christopher Jones Jr., is accused of the shootings and awaiting trial.

Throughout his recovery, which he admits is more complete physically than mentally, Hollins “has been a superhero,” roommate and fellow running back Perris

Jones said. “Experiencing what he experienced and carrying himself with as much grace and perseverance as he does is inspirational to see day in and day out. His spirit is truly unbroken, and he embodies that every day.”

Jones and his teammates aren’t the only ones benefitting from Hollins’ return.

“He’s been a big-time inspiration. He’s been an inspiration for me, you know, on the strength of that young man to come back out and play,” defensive line coach Chris Slade said. “And he came back in the spring, and that’s big.”

Hollins knows no one would have questioned him, or any of last year’s team, had they decided not to play again or to move to another school. He also knows to keep things in perspective as they play to honor their fallen teammates.

“Us being here and being able to play again and touch the field and just come together as a team is doing that legacy justice in itself. We don’t have to go out and try to ... go undefeated or win a championship,” he said.

That desire to honor their teammates has been cited by several players that decided to return, including defensive lineman Chico Bennett and Perris Jones.

“It’s a shame it has to happen in this way,” Bennett said, “but now that we’re given a platform, we’re going to make the most of it. I look forward to being able to do that and honoring them through our play and doing that to the best of our ability.”

Said Jones: “I have a debt to pay to those guys, and I plan to pay it.”

When Hollins suits up for Virginia’s game against Tennessee in Nashville on Sept. 2, he said, he will be “carrying something with me.”

“It’ll always weigh on you,” he said. “There will never be a day where you won’t remember it or feel something missing from your heart when thinking about it.”

Getting back on the field, though, sure might help.

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Sept. 2 vs. Tennessee (in Nashville)

Sept. 9 vs. James Madison

Sept. 15 at Maryland

Sept. 22 vs. NC State

Sept. 30 at Boston College

Oct. 7 vs. William & Mary

Oct. 21 at North Carolina

Oct. 28 at Miami

Nov. 4 vs. Georgia Tech

Nov. 9 at Louisville

Nov. 18 vs. Duke

Nov. 25 vs. Virginia Tech

Virginia running back Mike Hollins (7) runs up the middle for a gain against North Carolina.

Associated Press

Associated Press

University of Virginia football Coach Tony Elliott speaks at a memorial service in Charlottesville.

WVU

HEART & SOUL

WVU’s Frazier Excited To Anchor Offensive Line This Season

By ANDREW SPELLMAN

For The Daily News-Record

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Zach Frazier has been a household name before he even got to Morgantown. It just got more prevalent with West Virginia fans in his three years with the program.

Not only has the Fairmont Senior earned multiple All-America and all-conference honors for his work in the trenches, but he’s also a player who, despite the cliche, bleeds the old gold and blue. Now heading into his junior season, Frazier is ready to anchor one of the most

experienced offensive lines in the country.

He’s also looking forward to supporting what could be an up-tempo game plan, as the Mountaineers are going to start a returning quarterback for the first time in a decade, either Garrett Greene or Nicco Marchiol. When asked about the competition between the two returners and their growth, no matter who steps into the pocket as QB1, Frazier had nothing but good things to say about his on-field commanders.

“Garrett came in with me and I’ve been here since Nicco came in, and they’ve both grown tremendously on and off the field,” Frazier said. “Their leadership and you see them on the field every day getting better; they’re making good decisions. I’m looking forward to it.”

Individually, Frazier, who should be a high-priority NFL prospect when his time comes, said he wants to focus on improving small aspects of his game although he doesn’t try to listen to the noise too much.

“I’m doing the same thing I always do,” he said. “Really, I … try to make myself the best I can be and whatever happens, it’ll happen. I’m just focused on one day at a time.

“I feel like in every part of my game I’m working on something. I don’t think I’m perfect; I always have little things I’m working on.”

He didn’t want to give too many details on what he needs to improve but did note

PREVIEW

that the new style of offense has made him better. He’s been used to non-mobile quarterbacks like Jarett Doege and JT Daniels, but now, with two dual threats, it makes things easier for the line.

“In college football mobile quarterbacks do generally well, and I think that’s going to be fun to watch,” Frazier said. “And it makes it easier on us, because even if everyone’s guarded downfield they can take off and have a huge gain or, if someone gets beat, they can elude it and go get 5-10 yards instead of taking the sack.”

Through his progression, the awards and the attention, Frazier has remained a calm, humble young man. And though he’s a dog in the trenches, his personality may be the best thing about him. Like many West Virginia kids, it was a dream for him to play for the state’s flagship university, a quick jaunt up I-79 from his hometown. And, while that love for the program isn’t necessarily what makes Frazier unique from his peers, it’s how he embodies the ideals and mission of the program that does.

“Growing up in Fairmont, you grow up watching West Virginia and coming to games, and it’s what I’ve always dreamed of. It’s just been really special so far,” he said. “I would say when I found out I was starting for the first time, that was one of the coolest moments. You work so hard and then you’re told you’re going to start; that was probably the coolest moment so far.”

SCHEDULE

Date Opponent

Sept. 2 at Penn State

Sept. 9 vs. Duquesne

Sept. 16 vs. Pittsburgh

Sept. 23 vs. Texas Tech

Sept. 30 at TCU

Oct. 12 at Houston

Oct. 21 vs. Oklahoma State

Oct. 28 at UCF

Nov. 4 vs. BYU

Nov. 11 at Oklahoma

Nov. 18 vs. Cincinnati

Nov. 25 at Baylor

Zach Frazier Neal Brown