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VOLUME 3 • <strong>2018</strong>


Teamwork. Happening every<br />

day in Nebraska’s public schools.<br />

The countdown is on!<br />

After years on a Quarter academic calendar,<br />

SCC is moving to a Semester calendar. It all starts on Aug. 26, 2019.<br />

Go to the website for more information.<br />

www.southeast.edu/Q2S


TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />

TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />

CLASS A<br />

Grand Island Senior High School........................................................21<br />

Kearney Senior High School.................................................................23<br />

Lincoln East High School......................................................................28<br />

Lincoln High School..............................................................................26<br />

Lincoln Northeast High School............................................................25<br />

Lincoln North Star High School...........................................................22<br />

Lincoln Pius X High School..................................................................24<br />

Lincoln Southeast High School............................................................ 20<br />

Lincoln Southwest High School...........................................................30<br />

CLASS B<br />

Beatrice High School..............................................................................34<br />

Crete High School..................................................................................31<br />

Hastings Senior High School................................................................38<br />

Lexington High School..........................................................................40<br />

McCook High School............................................................................. 41<br />

Norris High School................................................................................37<br />

Northwest High School.........................................................................39<br />

Seward High School..............................................................................32<br />

Waverly High School.............................................................................36<br />

York High School...................................................................................42<br />

CLASS C1<br />

Adams Central High School.................................................................57<br />

Aurora High School...............................................................................54<br />

Boone Central-Newman Grove High Schools...................................49<br />

Broken Bow High School......................................................................56<br />

Central City High School......................................................................44<br />

Chase County High School..................................................................... *<br />

Cozad High School................................................................................47<br />

Fairbury High School............................................................................50<br />

Fillmore Central High School...............................................................58<br />

Gothenburg High School......................................................................52<br />

Holdrege High School............................................................................. *<br />

Kearney Catholic High School.............................................................60<br />

Lincoln Christian High School.............................................................48<br />

Lincoln Lutheran High School.............................................................62<br />

Milford High School..............................................................................61<br />

Minden High School..............................................................................63<br />

O’Neill High School...............................................................................66<br />

Ord High School.....................................................................................64<br />

Raymond Central High School............................................................53<br />

CLASS C2<br />

Aquinas Catholic High School.............................................................80<br />

Centennial High School........................................................................69<br />

Centura High School............................................................................... *<br />

David City High School........................................................................86<br />

Doniphan-Trumbull High School........................................................81<br />

Freeman High School............................................................................68<br />

Gibbon High School...............................................................................72<br />

Grand Island Central Catholic High School......................................76<br />

Hastings St. Cecilia High School..........................................................85<br />

Malcolm High School............................................................................73<br />

Sandy Creek High School.....................................................................88<br />

Shelby-Rising City High School...........................................................77<br />

Southern Valley High School................................................................84<br />

St. Paul High School..............................................................................74<br />

Superior High School............................................................................82<br />

Sutton High School................................................................................70<br />

Twin River High School.......................................................................... *<br />

Wilber-Clatonia High School................................................................78<br />

Wood River High School.......................................................................87<br />

CLASS D1<br />

Ainsworth High School.......................................................................104<br />

Alma High School..................................................................................94<br />

Amherst High School.......................................................................... 113<br />

Ansley-Litchfield High Schools.........................................................123<br />

Arapahoe High School........................................................................ 115<br />

Arcadia-Loup City High Schools.......................................................130<br />

Boyd County High School..................................................................105<br />

Bruning-Davenport-Shickley High Schools.....................................126<br />

Burwell High School..............................................................................95<br />

Cambridge High School.......................................................................... *<br />

Cross County High School....................................................................91<br />

East Butler High School...................................................................... 114<br />

Elm Creek High School.......................................................................109<br />

Elmwood-Murdock High Schools.....................................................103<br />

Exeter-Milligan-Friend High Schools................................................ 110<br />

Fullerton High School......................................................................... 119<br />

Heartland Community High School.................................................106<br />

Hitchcock County High School.............................................................. *<br />

Humboldt-Table Rock-Steinauer High School...................................98<br />

Nebraska Christian High School....................................................... 118<br />

Nebraska Lutheran High School.......................................................108<br />

Neligh-Oakdale High School.............................................................124<br />

North Central High School.................................................................122<br />

Osceola-High Plains High Schools....................................................128<br />

Palmer High School...............................................................................92<br />

Perkins County High School*.............................................................127<br />

Ravenna High School.......................................................................... 116<br />

Shelton High School............................................................................101<br />

South Loup High School.....................................................................100<br />

Southern High School..........................................................................120<br />

Southwest High School.......................................................................102<br />

Thayer Central High School.................................................................96<br />

Tri County High School.........................................................................99<br />

West Holt High School........................................................................ 112<br />

CLASS D2<br />

Anselmo-Merna High School.............................................................148<br />

Axtell High School...............................................................................150<br />

Bertrand High School..........................................................................142<br />

Blue Hill High School..........................................................................135<br />

Central Valley High School................................................................. 154<br />

Chambers-Wheeler Central-Ewing High Schools...........................138<br />

Clearwater-Orchard High School......................................................137<br />

Diller-Odell Secondary School...........................................................136<br />

Elgin-Pope John High School................................................................. *<br />

Franklin High School...........................................................................153<br />

Giltner High School.............................................................................149<br />

Kenesaw High School..........................................................................139<br />

Lawrence-Nelson High School...........................................................140<br />

Loomis High School.............................................................................144<br />

Medicine Valley High School............................................................. 151<br />

Meridian High School.........................................................................134<br />

Overton High School...........................................................................132<br />

Parkview Christian High School.......................................................147<br />

Pawnee City High School....................................................................... *<br />

Pleasanton High School......................................................................145<br />

St. Mary’s Catholic High School........................................................143<br />

Stuart High School...............................................................................133<br />

Twin Loup High School......................................................................146<br />

Waunita-Palisade High School...........................................................152<br />

CLASS D6<br />

Silver Lake High School......................................................................156<br />

McCool Junction High School............................................................157<br />

Elba High School...................................................................................... *<br />

Eustis-Farnam High School................................................................158<br />

Dorchester High School......................................................................159<br />

Sumner-Eddyville-Miller High School................................................. *<br />

*SCHOOL DID NOT SUBMIT TEAM INFORMATION<br />

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4 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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Seward .......................402-643-2946<br />

Swanton .................... 402-448-2040<br />

Wilber ...........................402-821-2378<br />

York ..............................402-362-5544<br />

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PIGSKIN PREVIEW<br />

COVER ATHLETES<br />

CARTERTERRY<br />

JOSEPHKRAUSE<br />

GARRETTSNODGRASS<br />

LUKEREIMER<br />

NORTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL - QB<br />

SEWARD HIGH SCHOOL - QB/PUNTER<br />

YORK HIGH SCHOOL - QB/LB<br />

NORTH STAR HIGH SCHOOL - OLB/WR<br />

1st Team All-State, All-Heartland, All-District<br />

College Plans: Major in education, pursue coaching<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Win a state championship<br />

All-District, All-State Honorable Mention<br />

College Plans: Undecided<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Advance in playoffs<br />

Super State Captain, All-State<br />

College Plans: Nebraska<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: State Championship<br />

All-City<br />

College Plans: South Dakota St.<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Qualify for playoffs, earn All-State honors<br />

CADENMcCORMACK<br />

CEDRICCASE<br />

RHETTJORDON<br />

WYATTEHLERS<br />

SOUTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL - LB/RB<br />

LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOL - QB/DB<br />

WAVERLY HIGH SCHOOL - QB/DB<br />

CENTENNIAL HIGH SCHOOL - QB/DB<br />

All-City, All-Conference, All-State Honorable Mention<br />

College Plans: Undecided<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Play in state championship, earn All-State honors<br />

1st Team Super State, All-State, All-City, All-Conference<br />

College Plans: North Dakota<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Win state, break passing yardage record<br />

1st Team All District<br />

College Plans: Undecided (Football & baseball recruit)<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Compete every day, push teammates<br />

All-State, All-District<br />

College Plans: Undecided (Major in Ag Business)<br />

<strong>2018</strong> Goal: Win State & District Championships<br />

10 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 11


CLASS ABRACKET<br />

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS NOW OR FOLLOW ALONG DURING THE STATE PLAYOFFS<br />

#1<br />

CLASS BBRACKET<br />

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS NOW OR FOLLOW ALONG DURING THE STATE PLAYOFFS<br />

#1<br />

#16<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#16<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#9<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#9<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#8<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#8<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

#5<br />

#5<br />

#12<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#12<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#13<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#13<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#4<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#4<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#3<br />

Monday, Nov 19th 7:15 PM<br />

@ UNL - Memorial Stadium<br />

CLASS A CHAMPION<br />

#3<br />

Tuesday, Nov 20th 7:15 PM<br />

@ UNL - Memorial Stadium<br />

CLASS B CHAMPION<br />

#14<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#14<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#11<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#11<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#6<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#6<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#7<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

#7<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

#10<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#10<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#15<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#15<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#2<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#2<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

GIVE YOUR PLAYERS THE<br />

RECOGNITION<br />

THEY DESERVE!<br />

LARGEST SELECTION OF AWARDS, APPAREL, & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS IN THE MIDWEST • VISIT RIXSTINE.COM<br />

12 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 13


CLASS C1BRACKET<br />

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS NOW OR FOLLOW ALONG DURING THE STATE PLAYOFFS<br />

#1<br />

CLASS C2BRACKET<br />

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS NOW OR FOLLOW ALONG DURING THE STATE PLAYOFFS<br />

#1<br />

#16<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#16<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#9<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#9<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#8<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#8<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

#5<br />

#5<br />

#12<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#12<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#13<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#13<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#4<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#4<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#3<br />

Tuesday, Nov 20th 2:45 PM<br />

@ UNL - Memorial Stadium<br />

CLASS C1 CHAMPION<br />

#3<br />

Tuesday, Nov 20th 10:15 PM<br />

@ UNL - Memorial Stadium<br />

CLASS C2 CHAMPION<br />

#14<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#14<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#11<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#11<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#6<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#6<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#7<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

#7<br />

Friday, Nov 9th<br />

#10<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#10<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#15<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#15<br />

Friday, Nov 2nd<br />

#2<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

#2<br />

Friday, Oct 26th<br />

Fiber • Internet • Phone • Video • Cloud Services<br />

Wishes all area athletes<br />

gtmc.net<br />

866.756.4746<br />

14 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 15


CLASS D1BRACKET<br />

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS NOW OR FOLLOW ALONG DURING THE STATE PLAYOFFS<br />

#1<br />

CLASS D1BRACKET<br />

#1<br />

Monday, Nov 19th 2:45 PM<br />

@ UNL - Memorial Stadium<br />

CLASS D1 CHAMPION<br />

#16<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#16<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#9<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#9<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#8<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#8<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

#5<br />

#5<br />

#12<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#12<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#13<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#13<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#4<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#4<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

Monday, Nov 12th<br />

Monday, Nov 12th<br />

#3<br />

#3<br />

#14<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#14<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#11<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#11<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#6<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#6<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#7<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

#7<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

#10<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#10<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#15<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#15<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#2<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#2<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

GIVE YOUR PLAYERS THE<br />

RECOGNITION<br />

THEY DESERVE!<br />

LARGEST SELECTION OF AWARDS, APPAREL, & PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS IN THE MIDWEST • VISIT RIXSTINE.COM<br />

16 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 17


CLASS D2BRACKET<br />

MAKE YOUR PREDICTIONS NOW OR FOLLOW ALONG DURING THE STATE PLAYOFFS<br />

#1<br />

CLASS D2BRACKET<br />

#1<br />

Monday, Nov 19th 10:15 AM<br />

@ UNL - Memorial Stadium<br />

CLASS D2 CHAMPION<br />

#16<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#16<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#9<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#9<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#8<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#8<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

#5<br />

#5<br />

#12<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#12<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#13<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#13<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#4<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#4<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

Monday, Nov 12th<br />

Monday, Nov 12th<br />

#3<br />

#3<br />

#14<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#14<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#11<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#11<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#6<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#6<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#7<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

#7<br />

Tuesday, Nov 6th<br />

#10<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#10<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#15<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#15<br />

Wednesday, Oct 31st<br />

#2<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

#2<br />

Thursday, Oct 25th<br />

Fiber • Internet • Phone • Video • Cloud Services<br />

Wishes all area athletes<br />

gtmc.net<br />

866.756.4746<br />

18 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 19


LINCOLN SOUTHEAST<br />

GRAND ISLAND SENIOR HIGH<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jampe’ Gergen (6’ 190 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Isaac Gifford (6’1” 180 lbs) Jr. FS<br />

Grant Detlefsen (6’3” 215 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Omaha Burke<br />

8/31 Lincoln Southwest<br />

9/7 @ Omaha Westside<br />

9/14 Lincoln East<br />

9/21 @ Omaha North<br />

9/28 Bellevue East<br />

10/4 Lincoln Pius X<br />

10/12 @ Papillion-LaVista South<br />

10/19 Lincoln Northeast<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Cole Evans (6’1” 200 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Eric Allen (6’3” 275 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Sam Sims (5’11” 215 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Kearney<br />

8/31 @ Lincoln High<br />

9/7 Papillion-LaVista<br />

9/14 @ North Platte<br />

9/21 Lincoln North Star<br />

9/28 @ Omaha Bryan<br />

10/4 @ Millard West<br />

10/12 Lincoln Southwest<br />

10/19 Lincoln East<br />

Ryan Gottula<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our players have had a strong off-season up to this point and that must continue throughout the summer months. We will open<br />

the season with a number of strong opponents. Our players are excited for this challenge and developing depth early in the season<br />

will be very important.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will return a strong core of offensive starters from last season, led by Jampe’ Gergen (QB). We should benefit from a number of<br />

young linemen gaining experience in 2017 on both sides of the ball. Isaac Gifford had an outstanding season as a sophomore and<br />

will be a great leader for our defense.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our players and staff always expect to compete at a high level and the players are excited to start the <strong>2018</strong> season. Our goal is to<br />

always focus on one week/one game at a time and be consistent in our preparation and focus.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We must replace starters at the LB and RB position and continue to develop depth on both sides of the ball with daily competition.<br />

We will open the season with some very strong opponents and we must be prepared to play at a high level every week.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

After playing behind Jack Strong, the Lincoln Southeast offense is now in the hands of Jampe’ Gergen. The talented senior quarterback has great<br />

knowledge of the LSE system and is a natural playmaker. Gergen will be surrounded by a veteran core on offense, though the Knights are looking<br />

for a leader to emerge at running back. The key to Lincoln Southeast’s success may be on defense. In their wins last year, LSE allowed only 7 points<br />

per game, as opposed to 34 points surrendered in their losses. Isaac Gifford is a Division I prospect that had 69 tackles and 2 interceptions last year.<br />

Jeff Tomlin<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

I expect that we will have a very solid team in ‘18. We project to have good overall team speed and better overall depth than we<br />

had last season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have an excellent senior class and a junior class that compliments the senior class very well. Cole Evans has the capability to be<br />

a real difference maker at QB, we will have a good rotation of 3-4 RBs, and our OL should be very solid.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I am concerned about inexperience in the secondary and at 3 of the 4 LB spots, as well as at WR. We have few, if any, highly rated<br />

prospects but a number of potentially very good high school players.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Line play will be key for Grand Island in <strong>2018</strong>. The Islanders have both size and experience up front, which could allow GISH to<br />

be among the most physical teams in Class A. Cole Evans will trigger the Grand Island offense after throwing for more than 1,000<br />

yards as a junior last season. Evans will have a new supporting cast at the skill positions, but trust Jeff Tomlin to develop his players<br />

quickly before Week 1. GISH’s biggest games are at the front of the schedule with match-ups against rival Kearney and Lincoln High<br />

to begin the <strong>2018</strong> campaign. If the Islanders can successfully navigate those back-to-back games, expect a magical ride in <strong>2018</strong> for<br />

Grand Island.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Knights<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Ryan Gottula<br />

Career Record: 43-28<br />

Assistant Coaches: Scott Vampola,<br />

Fred Thorne, Andy Ryan,<br />

Justin Freitag, Troy Bergt, Jesse<br />

Foster, Montana Jones, Dan<br />

Dougherty and Josh Severin<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Islanders<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Jeff Tomlin<br />

Career Record: 159-90<br />

Assistant Coaches: Russ Harvey<br />

20 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 21


LINCOLN NORTH STAR<br />

KEARNEY SENIOR HIGH<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Luke Reimer (6’2” 200 lbs) Sr. RB/OLB<br />

Tyrric Scott (6’4” 220 lbs) Sr. DE/TE<br />

Gavin Leitschuck (5’10” 180 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Lincoln Southwest<br />

8/31 @ Kearney<br />

9/7 Elkhorn South<br />

9/1 Omaha South<br />

9/21 @ Grand Island<br />

9/27 Lincoln East<br />

10/5 @ North Platte<br />

10/12 Omaha Bryan<br />

10/19 @ Millard West<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Brayden Miller (6’0” 185 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

Grant Kowalski (6’1” 200 lbs) Sr. TE/DT<br />

Miko Maessner (6’1” 185 lbs) Jr. RB/DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 0<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Grand Island<br />

8/31 Lincoln North Star<br />

9/7 Norfolk<br />

9/14 @ Papillion-LaVista South<br />

9/21 Omaha Benson<br />

9/28 Millard West<br />

10/5 @ Lincoln Southwest<br />

10/12 @ Lincoln High<br />

10/19 North Platte<br />

Tony Kobza<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have a strong senior class with some really nice talent. There is good depth in the program and an excitement. This team has<br />

the senior leadership and the work ethic to be successful. It is important for us to have a great summer as well as a strong fall camp<br />

to be ready week one. From there, we need to focus on being great one play at a time, one game at a time.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The senior class is our main strength. We have a good mix of positions that provide us with depth. That depth will create competition<br />

every day in practice. Competition will force us to either step up or step out.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The expectation is for us to get better every day and buy into what we are trying to do. Through a group of committed players<br />

competing and believing in each other, we will put ourselves in position to win every week. The ultimate goal is to be a playoff team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Change. There will be a lot of new terminology, styles, etc. and the players and coaches will need to develop relationships quickly.<br />

There is a hunger from the returning players to get started working together through the summer. Getting on the same page and<br />

having each of us learn our strengths and opportunities to improve needs to happen this summer. Players and coaches must<br />

embrace change and take it as a challenge to get better.<br />

Brandon Cool<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have a nice nucleus of seniors and juniors who compliment each other. Our group will be hard-working, competitive, and<br />

tremendous role models for our youth.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our team will be great leaders in our school and community.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We look for our team to improve weekly, develop a tremendous team unity, and compete in the <strong>2018</strong> playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We lack starting experience and must find OL/DL depth.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

The Tony Kobza era begins with renewed excitement at Lincoln North Star. Kobza’s arrival brings hope for the Navigators to contend in the city race.<br />

He’s just the second head coach in school history, so naturally the transition will come with some challenges. However, Kobza inherits a talented<br />

roster with a wealth of experience. Gavin Leitschuck is a tough-nosed quarterback that was limited last season due to injury. The senior signal caller<br />

enters his third year as a starter and his leadership will be key in <strong>2018</strong>. Luke Reimer is a do-it-all player who ranks among the top athletes in Lincoln.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

As the Class A runner-up, Kearney had a season to remember in 2017. The Bearcats’ <strong>2018</strong> campaign may be pretty special, too. Repeating as a state<br />

finalist may be a stretch, but Kearney has some nice pieces that should help the Bearcats reach the playoffs for the ninth straight year. A top priority<br />

for KHS is finding a replacement for record-setting quarterback Kanon Koster. The Bearcats also have holes up front, but Brandon Cool’s teams<br />

always play tough in the trenches. Junior running back Miko Maessner has drawn recruiting interest from Nebraska, Iowa, and Iowa State. He<br />

finished just shy of 1,000 yards rushing last season, which he should eclipse this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Navigators<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 2-7<br />

Head Coach: Tony Kobza<br />

Career Record: 6-48<br />

Assistant Coaches: Brian Lauck,<br />

Tim Amen, James Thompson,<br />

Jacob Froscheiser, Jordan<br />

Lauterback, Trevor Birdzell<br />

OUR TEAM COVERING YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

Team Name: Bearcats<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 12-1<br />

Head Coach: Brandon Cool<br />

Career Record: N/A<br />

Assistant Coaches: Darren Van-<br />

Winkle, Dan Martin, Bart Cron,<br />

Steve Cherry, Wade Halvorsen,<br />

Pete Kropp, Kyle Peters,<br />

DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP FOR<br />

UPDATES ON SCHOOL ACTIVITIES AND DELAYS.<br />

22 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 23


LINCOLN PIUS X<br />

LINCOLN NORTHEAST<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Joe Dworak (5’10” 180 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

Grant Gubbels (5’11” 240 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Austin Jablonski (6’2” 190 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/23 @ Lincoln East<br />

8/31 Millard South<br />

9/7 @ Gretna<br />

9/14 Lincoln High<br />

9/20 @ Bellevue West<br />

9/28 Omaha Central<br />

10/4 @ Lincoln Southeast<br />

10/11 @ Norfolk<br />

10/19 Omaha South<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Tobin Vocasek (6’3” 185 lbs) Sr. DB/WR<br />

Caleb Kyes (6’1” 215 lbs) Sr. LB/FB<br />

Nick Halleen (5’10” 190 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 11<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 9<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Fremont<br />

8/31 @ Lincoln East<br />

9/6 Omaha Bryan<br />

9/13 @ Norfolk<br />

9/21 Papillion-LaVista South<br />

9/28 @ Omaha South<br />

10/4 @ Omaha North<br />

10/11 Bellevue East<br />

10/19 @ Lincoln Southeast<br />

Ryan Kearney<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The foundation for the success of the <strong>2018</strong> Thunderbolts will be established during the summer months and the work that is put<br />

in. Secondly, if the leadership on this team is able to maintain the high level of expectation of daily excellence for themselves and<br />

the other players, they will further position this team to be successful.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our team has a number of returning players who contributed to important roles as backups or scout team players that will help to<br />

improve the depth on this team. Furthermore, there are young players on this team that are very motivated and unsatisfied with<br />

playing a backup role which will increase daily competition and improve all teammates and team performance.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The <strong>2018</strong> Thunderbolts will play physical football, they will have a daily goal of excellence, and will be dedicated to team before<br />

self knowing that those are the things that create success.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The biggest challenge this team will face is understanding that every day is an opportunity to get better. Also, mentally adjusting<br />

to a schedule that includes some Thursday night games.<br />

Shane Zimmerman<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The Rockets return a lot of starters and hope to build off of the experience gained over the past two seasons. With new head coach<br />

Shane Zimmerman there will be a lot of position battles leading into the <strong>2018</strong> season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength for the Rockets is the experience factor. They will lean on some of their returning leaders, Hahler Groth, Caleb<br />

Kyes, Tobin Vocasek, Nick Halleen, and more to keep the team on the right path.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The expectation for the Rockets is 1-0. That doesn’t just mean winning the first game, but to win every drill, practice, and<br />

competition. If they can keep the 1-0 mindset, you will see great improvements from this group of young men.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Even with experience, the Rockets will still be a young team with many juniors and sophomores playing at key times throughout<br />

the season. If those younger teammates are able to overcome the hardships along the way, you should see some big improvements<br />

across the board.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Austin Jablonski added muscle and gained experience over the past year. Now, the Lincoln Pius X quarterback looks to increase the Thunderbolts’ win<br />

total in <strong>2018</strong>. At 6-foot-2, 190 pounds, Jablonski is a physically imposing signal caller with dual-threat capabilities. If the Thunderbolts can protect their<br />

senior QB and get consistent production from playmakers like Joe Dworak and Ethan Schepers, Pius should extend its playoff streak to five seasons.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Lincoln Northeast hasn’t had a winning season since 2011 and Shane Zimmerman wants to get the Rockets back on the right side of the win-loss<br />

ledger. Zimmerman, though, knows it may take a few years to re-establish the Rockets proud football program and contend for city championships.<br />

The focus this season at LNE will be shifting culture and learning a new system. Fans would be wise to gauge this season not on the Rockets’ record,<br />

but success in the weight room and trust built between players and coaches.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Thunderbolts<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Ryan Kearney<br />

Career Record: 11-9<br />

Assistant Coaches: Alex Adams, Mike<br />

Aldrich, Steve Andersen, Jason Ankrah,<br />

PJ Book, Troy Charf, Steve Engstrom,<br />

Alex Hain, Jim Hansen, Nate<br />

Heimes, Ross Miller, Thomas Schneider,<br />

Mark Stoley, Cody Wallinger<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Rockets<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 2-7<br />

Head Coach: Shane Zimmerman<br />

Career Record: 107-70<br />

Assistant Coaches: Javonta Boyd and<br />

Ryan Hitz<br />

24 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 25


LINCOLN HIGH<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Cedric Case (6’2” 195 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Darius Luff (6’ 185 lbs) Sr. DB/WR<br />

CJ Jones (5’8” 175 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 9<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Bellevue West<br />

8/31 Grand Island<br />

9/7 @ Creighton Prep<br />

9/14 @ Lincoln Pius X<br />

9/21 Omaha Central<br />

9/28 North Platte<br />

10/5 @ Omaha Benson<br />

10/12 Kearney<br />

10/19 @ Lincoln Southwest<br />

Mark Macke<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our expectations are high. Barring injury, we hope to be competitive in our district. Our schedule is very difficult and quite<br />

challenging.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have several returners on offense. We should be able to move the ball well. Defensively, we need to establish depth at the<br />

linebacker position.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We hope to be a state playoff qualifier again and make “some noise.”<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our first four games are very challenging. We open with Bellevue West, Grand Island, Prep, and Lincoln Pius X. Once again, we<br />

will need to avoid injury and develop depth.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Lincoln High won’t be sneaking up on anyone this fall. The Links are a marked team in the Class A race after a breakthrough season<br />

in 2017. LHS is the front-runner to repeat as city champs and many expect the Links to contend for a state title. Senior quarterback<br />

Cedric Case led the state in passing yardage last fall (3,249 yards). The third-year starting QB has an extremely strong arm and high<br />

football IQ. Few teams were able to slow the Lincoln High offense last fall, which will likely be the case again in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Links<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Mark Macke<br />

Career Record: 25-37<br />

Assistant Coaches: AJ Santos,<br />

Dan Beckmann, Chad Case,<br />

Lucas Varley, Jered Shaw, John<br />

Goodwin, Nate Blankenship<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

26 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 27


LINCOLN EAST<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Blake Ingamells (5”11” 175 lbs) Sr. S/RB/WR<br />

Braden Sellon (6”2” 215 lbs) Sr. LB/ER/RB<br />

BarrettSellon (6’3” 220 lbs) Sr. LB/RB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/23 Lincoln Pius X<br />

8/31 Lincoln Northeast<br />

9/7 @ Lincoln Southwest<br />

9/14 @ Lincoln Southeast<br />

9/20 Bellevue East<br />

9/27 @ Lincoln North Star<br />

10/5 Omaha Bryan<br />

10/12 Millard West<br />

10/19 @ Grand Island<br />

John Gingery<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

I hope we stay healthy this year. We suffered numerous injuries last year and we played many underclassmen. We should be<br />

improved on both offense and defense. Better team speed and improved skill players<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our skill players on offense and defense should help us be more productive on both sides of the ball. Our overall team speed<br />

should be much improved and play a bigger role this year.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I think we can be 6-3 this year if we play well and do not turn the ball over. We hope we can compete in all of our games and be in<br />

a position to win at the end.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest task this year will be building our offensive and defensive lines. If we can make that happen it should be a fun year.<br />

You protect the ball.<br />

We’ll protect your teeth.<br />

For Lincoln East, its standing in the city race will be mostly decided by mid-season. The Spartans open their <strong>2018</strong> schedule with four<br />

consecutive Lincoln opponents, so John Gingery must have his team ready to play by August 23rd. Lincoln East should be much<br />

improved from 2017, especially on offense. The Spartans add transfer quarterback Zach Clausen, who had more than 3,000 passing<br />

yards at Lincoln Lutheran. It will be exciting to watch Clausen compete at the Class A level.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Spartans<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 3-6<br />

Head Coach: John Gingery<br />

Career Record: N/A<br />

Assistant Coaches: Bill Keckely,<br />

Mike Janesch<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

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28 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 29


LINCOLN SOUTHWEST<br />

CRETE<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Caden McCormack (6’2” 210 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Brett Lenners (6’3” 215 lbs) Sr. FB/DE<br />

Nick Leader (6’2” 210 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Lincoln North Star<br />

8/31 @ Lincoln Southeast<br />

9/7 Lincoln East<br />

9/13 Elkhorn<br />

9/21 @ North Platte<br />

9/27 @ Omaha Benson<br />

10/5 Kearney<br />

10/12 @ Grand Island<br />

10/19 Lincoln High<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Zach Fye (6’ 190 lbs) Jr. QB<br />

AJ Page (5’11” 215 lbs) Sr. FB/LB<br />

Leroy Chao (5’8” 150 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Lexington<br />

8/31 @ Norris<br />

9/7 Plattsmouth<br />

9/14 @ South Sioux City<br />

9/21 @ Hastings<br />

9/28 Seward<br />

10/5 @ Beatrice<br />

10/12 Northwest<br />

10/19 @ York<br />

Andrew Sherman<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Here are our keys to a successful season: our offensive line needs to gel, play with an edge, and be downright nasty! Our QB needs<br />

to be composed and can’t try to do too much! Defensively we need to believe that we are the best and be in attack mode.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a bunch of good dudes that really care about the team. They are willing to do whatever it takes to make the team successful.<br />

I really like our linebackers: Caden McCormack, Easton Boyd, Taylor Boutmahovong, and Alex McIntyre are all returning starters<br />

Although we only have 10 returning starters, we have a bunch of guys with playing experience.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have to replace some very good football players: four D1, one JUCO, two D2, two NAIA players to replace. Last year’s team<br />

broke 15 school records. Many of those guys have moved on to college.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Lincoln Southwest lost the core of last year’s 6-win team, but that doesn’t mean the cupboard is bare in <strong>2018</strong>. The Silver Hawks<br />

have a talented group of up-and-coming players and will be among the top teams in the city. TaeVyn Grixby and Caden<br />

McCormack are both Division I prospects that will lead the way this fall. Lincoln Southwest has a manageable schedule that<br />

gets more challenging as the season goes along. The Silver Hawks’ Week 9 contest against Lincoln High could be the most<br />

anticipated match-up between LPS teams this season.<br />

Reed Manstedt<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We as a team are extremely excited about this coming year. We return a good number of starters on each side of the ball from last<br />

year’s team. We did, however, lose several key players from last year in the skill positions and will need to have some young men<br />

step up to fill those spots. The development of depth in the offensive/defensive lines will be key. If we can do that, we feel we have<br />

a chance to be very competitive next year.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

One strength of ours going into next year is that we should be very athletic on both sides of the ball. We won’t necessarily be the<br />

biggest team on the field most of the time, but we should athletically match up well<br />

with people.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With the returning of six starters from last year on both sides of the ball, we feel we<br />

have a chance to make a good rebound from last year. Last year we lost four games<br />

by a combined 13 points, all of which were lost in the last several minutes of the 4th<br />

quarter or overtime. If we as a team can learn to finish in those close games, we have<br />

a chance to have a much-improved year.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge going into the <strong>2018</strong> season will be our overall depth on the<br />

offensive and defensive lines. Developing depth on both those lines will be key for us.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Silver Hawks<br />

Class: A<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Andrew Sherman<br />

Career Record: 10-10<br />

Assistant Coaches: Grant Traynowicz,<br />

Brett Schuster, Scott Bender, Adam<br />

Aschenbrenner, Doug Ayars, Brad Devall,<br />

Terry Berks, Jeff Jochum, Christian Summers,<br />

Kevin Schrad, Ashley Wimes, Aaron<br />

Finley, Mike Powell, Chett Bennetts<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Cardinals<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Reed Manstedt<br />

Career Record: 8-19<br />

Assistant Coaches: Mark Newmyer,<br />

Garrett Borcher, Nicco Salvador,<br />

Colton Mach<br />

Reed Manstedt is looking for his first<br />

winning season at Crete and it could<br />

happen this year. Manstedt, who’s<br />

in his fourth year as head coach, has<br />

set a foundation of hard work and<br />

commitment. Quarterback Zach Fye<br />

experienced some growing pains as<br />

a first-year starting quarterback last<br />

season. Fye, who passed for 1,343 yards<br />

as a sophomore, could be primed for a<br />

breakout year. If Fye and his teammates<br />

can reduce their number of turnovers,<br />

expect Crete to take a big step forward<br />

in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

30 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 31


SEWARD<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Joseph Krause (6’1” 185 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Carson Core (5’11” 175 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

P.J. Schaben (6’1” 260 lbs) Sr. C/DT<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 9<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Waverly<br />

8/31 @ Gering<br />

9/7 Lexington<br />

9/14 @ Bennington<br />

9/21 Northwest<br />

9/28 @ Crete<br />

10/5 @ Hastings<br />

10/12 York<br />

10/19 Beatrice<br />

Jamie Opfer<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our skill guys have a chance to be a special group this year, lead by Joseph Krause who threw for over 2,200 yards last year. All of<br />

his receiving targets are back from last year. Davon Brees has a chance to have a big year at RB. All five anticipated starters on our<br />

O-line have starting experience from last season, led by PJ Schaben who is a two-year starter at center. Defensively, we should be<br />

solid against the pass. We will also be better up-front as we return all but one starter on our defensive line from last year. We will<br />

need to replace our MLBs on defense. We lost Max Perry in Week 1 last year due to an injury. He will be an excellent player for us<br />

this year along with returning OLB Tyson Franklin.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our strength of our team will be our skill players. Joseph Krause threw for over 1,600 yards as a sophomore and 2,200 yards as<br />

a junior. He has some very skilled players to throw the ball to this season like Carson Core, Brett Myer, Ben Myers, Davon Brees,<br />

Gabe Knisley, and Josh Sagehorn.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge will be staying healthy. We feel really good about our first group, but will need some younger kids to step<br />

up and fill some spots on our team.<br />

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<strong>2018</strong> sets up for a potential big year for Seward as the Bluejays are led by stud quarterback Joe Krause who has plenty of weapons to throw to. Krause<br />

passed for 2,200 yards last season and is looking to top those numbers this year, whlle leading Seward back into the playoffs. Coach Jamie Opfer’s<br />

team was close to the postseason in 2017 and the team is hungry to reach the playoffs this year. The Jays will rely on their skill position players, led<br />

by wide receiver Carson Core. The schedule is tough for Seward, but if the team can stay healthy, it should put up enough offensive numbers to be<br />

back in the playoffs for the first time since 2014.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bluejays<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Jamie Opfer<br />

Career Record: 18-29<br />

Assistant Coaches: Wade Miller,<br />

Casey Makey, Vance Winter,<br />

Russ Wissing, Pat Schaben<br />

Chad Schwichtenberg<br />

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32 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

FEBRUARY 3, 2019<br />

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BEATRICE<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Andrew Mahoney (5’9” 150 lbs) Jr. WR/CB<br />

Dakota Adams (6’ 190 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Colton Kelle (5’11” 190 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

Todd Ekart<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Norris<br />

8/31 @ Plattsmouth<br />

9/7 Ralston<br />

9/14 @ McCook<br />

9/21 York<br />

9/28 @ Northwest<br />

10/5 Crete<br />

10/12 Hastings<br />

10/19 @ Seward<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are looking to continue the tradition of Orangemen Football. We will have an extremely challenging schedule and our district<br />

is loaded with talented teams.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a number of exceptional skill players. We also feel we will be a very strong and fast team.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The schedule will be more of a test than last year. The district has the defending state champions and proven playoff teams. If we<br />

can stay healthy we feel we can be a very good playoff team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge is to replace linemen and create depth at that position. We will count on linemen that have not seen a great<br />

deal of varsity time, but we think they are up to the task of creating holes for our skill players.<br />

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The coaches have changed, but the expectations have not at Beatrice. The Orangemen look to return to the playoffs in <strong>2018</strong> under<br />

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a high standard. Beatrice has reached the playoffs in each of the past eight seasons. The Orangemen must replace four-year starter<br />

Cameron Jurgens, but don’t expect a huge drop-off in talent. The Orangemen return the team leader in rushing (Colton Kelle) and<br />

receiving (Andrew Mahoney).<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Orangemen<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Todd Ekart<br />

Career Record: N/A<br />

Assistant Coaches: Corey Wells,<br />

Lucas Laflin, Chuck Humphrey,<br />

Ethan Wright<br />

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34 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 35


WAVERLY<br />

NORRIS<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Rhett Jordon (5’10” 175 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Logan Scheulke (6’2” 250 lbs) Sr. OL/LB<br />

Jay Adams (5’11” 200 lbs) Sr. WR<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Seward<br />

8/31 Bennington<br />

9/7 @ Omaha Roncalli Catholic<br />

9/14 @ Lexington<br />

9/21 Norris<br />

9/28 Gross Catholic<br />

10/5 @ Omaha Skutt Catholic<br />

10/12 Plattsmouth<br />

10/19 @ Ralston<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Cade Argo (6’ 190 lbs) Sr. FB/LB<br />

Ashton Hausmann (6’ 200 lbs) Jr. IB/DB<br />

Aidan Oerter (6’2 185 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Dawson Dorn (6’ 230 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 9<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Beatrice<br />

8/31 Crete<br />

9/7 Bennington<br />

9/14 @ Blair<br />

9/21 @ Waverly<br />

9/28 Plattsmouth<br />

10/5 @ Gross Catholic<br />

10/12 @ Ralston<br />

10/19 Omaha Skutt Catholic<br />

Tim Williams<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This year’s team is returning a lot of experience. We are looking forward to the new schedule and the different teams that we will<br />

be getting to play. If we stay healthy, we feel that we will be a competitive team.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

This year’s football team is very close. They really work well with one another and push each other like a team should push each<br />

other. The cohesiveness of this team is going to make them very tough.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We believe that we have an opportunity to improve every week. We are expecting our kids and our coaches to take each game as<br />

if it is our last. We can’t control anything on our schedule, so our expectation is going to be for us to improve.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We feel that with every football team, the biggest challenge is blocking and tackling. We always look at this as a challenge, so we<br />

focus on improving in those areas every day.<br />

Jim Jacobsen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This will be a hard-working & unified team. We played to most sophomores ever last season which results in having a great deal<br />

of experience coming back in <strong>2018</strong>. Multiple positions will have good depth and speed.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have good speed and quickness at most all positions. Work ethic and attitude will be very good. This group has the<br />

mindset to do the necessary things to be a good football team.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will take it one day at a time, but our goal is to always be as good or better than anyone in Class B. It is a daily process. We want<br />

to see improvements daily over the entire season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Class B is always very competitive and tough, so each week will be a big challenge.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Waverly is hoping for a return trip to the playoffs in <strong>2018</strong>, which is an attainable goal for Tim Williams’ team. The Vikings have a<br />

solid core with plenty of experience. Waverly will lean on quarterback Rhett Jordon, who had 10 passing touchdowns and 12 rushing<br />

touchdowns as a junior. Jordon will be complimented by Trent Weatherwax, who has turned heads in recent months with his speed.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

You can always expect Jim Jacobson’s teams to be tough-nosed and his <strong>2018</strong> squad should be no different. The Titans have experienced,<br />

physical players up front, especially on offense. However, one departure that could affect the Titans is Austin Schultz. Norris must<br />

replace the standout running back, who rushed for more than 1,400 yards last season. Aiden Oerter should be much improved after<br />

starting at quarterback as a sophomore. Expect a big jump from the Titans’ signal caller.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Vikings<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Tim Williams<br />

Career Record: 17-22<br />

Assistant Coaches: Brian Benson,<br />

Mike Ziola, Matt Brewer, Brian<br />

Jackson, Kyle Branum, Derek Whisenhunt,<br />

Jeff Reed, Joe Dalton, Tommy<br />

Dalton, Aaron Jones, Jacob Schneider<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Titans<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Jim Jacobsen<br />

Career Record: 40-40<br />

Assistant Coaches: Beau Heiss,<br />

Mitch Marvin, Jordan Haag,<br />

Mike VanCleave, John Kroeker<br />

36 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 37


HASTINGS<br />

NORTHWEST<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Keeshaun Hunt (6’3” 265 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

McClean Witte (6’ 200 lbs) Sr. OL/LB<br />

Alex Swoboda (6’1” 150 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 McCook<br />

8/31 @ Scottsbluff<br />

9/7 Alliance<br />

9/14 @ Gering<br />

9/21 Crete<br />

9/28 @ York<br />

10/5 Seward<br />

10/12 @ Beatrice<br />

10/19 @ Northwest<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Carter Terry (6’0” 185 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Cooper Kiser (6’2’’ 260 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Jaryk Cole (6’1’’ 225 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Gering<br />

8/31 @ McCook<br />

9/7 @ Scottsbluff<br />

9/14 Aurora<br />

9/21 @ Seward<br />

9/28 Beatrice<br />

10/5 York<br />

10/12 @ Crete<br />

10/19 Hastings<br />

Charlie Shoemaker<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We feel that we will be very competitive this year. We have outstanding senior leadership and good young talent.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We feel like we will be good on defense and our offensive line should be solid.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our schedule is very difficult so we need to be ready to compete every week, but we feel that we will have a very good chance of<br />

making the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Depth at every position.<br />

Kevin Stein<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

One of the best things about the team is the number of upperclassmen and more importantly the seniors. They are a strong group.<br />

Offensively, we will be led for the third year by Carter Terry with his dad, Ken, as our offensive coordinator. He knows our offense<br />

inside-out and is able to put us into the right play at any moment. Having Adam Cooper to hand off to again behind a deep and<br />

experienced line will help. Defensively, we feel like we are in a good place having a solid two-deep that will force players to really<br />

compete in practice. This will give them the edge that they will need on Friday night. Having Kyle Suttles go into his second year<br />

as defensive coordinator is great. He does a fabulous job connecting with players. Last year we lost our defensive leader Jaryk Cole<br />

on the third play of the season to a knee injury. Having him back at 100% will be awesome.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

There are a few teams that are a cut above the rest and we hope to be in the mix with them. If we are able to avoid injuries we will<br />

have a chance.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

One thing that we will have to figure out is who we will throw the ball to. The entire wide receivers corp will be new. At defensive<br />

back we will have to figure out what is best for us. We have some options but will really need to focus on this area.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Hastings is looking to get to the playoffs for the first time since 2010. The orange and black return six starters on both sides of the<br />

ball and believe its strength is in the trenches. The Tigers fell in two of their last three games in 2017 and the <strong>2018</strong> schedule does the<br />

Tigers no favors. Hastings will be competitive in many games this fall and if it gets some bounces, the Tigers could break the playoff<br />

drought.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Northwest is primed for a deep playoff run in <strong>2018</strong>. The Vikings have post-season experience, a veteran group, and elite-level talent.<br />

Quarterback Carter Terry regularly makes jaw-dropping plays and stresses opposing defenses in a variety of ways. Northwest will<br />

be tested early in the season with road games at McCook and Scottsbluff. Those contests could set the tone for the Vikings, who could<br />

reach double-digit wins this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Tigers<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Charlie Shoemaker<br />

Career Record: 84-65<br />

Assistant Coaches: Brian Itzen,<br />

Raeigh White, Evan Kruger,<br />

Duane Spale, Cory Dreher,<br />

Erik Emerson<br />

Team Name: Vikings<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Kevin Stein<br />

Career Record: 120-89<br />

Assistant Coaches: Bill Bombeck,<br />

Kyle Suttles, Ken Terry, Brandon<br />

Harrington, Jeff Eynetich, Bryce<br />

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38 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 39


LEXINGTON<br />

McCOOK<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jake Leger (5’11” 190 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Logen Callahan (6’3” 185 lbs) Sr. WR<br />

Jade Wurth (6’2” 280 lbs) Sr. DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Crete<br />

8/31 Schuyler<br />

9/7 @ Seward<br />

9/14 Waverly<br />

9/21 @ McCook<br />

9/28 @ Gering<br />

10/5 Scottsbluff<br />

10/12 @ Cozad<br />

10/19 Alliance<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

DJ Gross (6’2’’ 215 lbs) Sr. ILB<br />

Colin Giron (6’3” 240 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Cam Berry (6’1” 155 lbs) Jr. QB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 9<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Hastings<br />

8/31 Northwest<br />

9/7 @ York<br />

9/14 Beatrice<br />

9/21 Lexington<br />

9/28 @ Alliance<br />

10/5 @ Holdrege<br />

10/12 Gering<br />

10/19 @ Scottsbluff<br />

Jeff Rowan<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have a quality group of seniors that have played a lot since they were sophomores. Time for them to use that experience and<br />

have a successful season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Offensively we should be able to put up more points than we have in previous seasons. Pretty good skill players that have a lot of<br />

experience.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We could win 5-6 games and be a playoff team for the first time since 2009.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Staying healthy in an always competitive Class B field. Finding out who is willing to keep working hard this off-season and<br />

carrying that effort into the fall campaign.<br />

Jeff Gross<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We really hope to be a final four team. We return a lot of skill players that have tons of experience.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have led Class B in team defense for that few years and we hope to continue that trend. ‘If they can’t score, they can’t win’ is a<br />

real motto for our team.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We keep our goals simple. Play them one at a time and hope to be in position to make a run in the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Health. In Class B you have to stay healthy and keep your kids on the field.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It’s been almost a decade since Lexington last made the playoffs and the Minutemen are eager to try and break that drought in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

The orange and black put together a three-game winning streak in 2017 and return a lot of players that have popped the pads on<br />

Friday nights. The offense struggled late in 2017 but expect the Minutemen to put up a lot of points this fall. If this team can win the<br />

games its supposed to and take the 50/50 games, Lexington could be back in the postseason for the first time since 2009.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

McCook is the model of consistency in Class B. The Bison have reached the playoffs in each of the last 17 seasons, which is a streak<br />

that should continue this fall. Jeff Gross’ team has a wealth of talent and experience, especially on defense. The Bison allowed only<br />

four opponents to score in double-digits last year while ranking among the state leaders in scoring defense. With nine starters back<br />

on that side of the ball, McCook will be an extremely tough match-up throughout the season. The Bison’s biggest test comes in Week<br />

3 when McCook travels to York. The Bison lost to the Class B champs last year, 20-7, which was their only regular season setback.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Minutemen<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 3-6<br />

Head Coach: Jeff Rowan<br />

Career Record: 12-33<br />

Assistant Coaches: Mark Burson,<br />

Josh Kuecker, Jake Hervey, Cole<br />

Brockmoller, Jeff Neujahr,<br />

Eric Bell<br />

SUNDAYS ON<br />

Team Name: Bison<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 9-2<br />

Head Coach: Jeff Gross<br />

Career Record: 188-43<br />

Assistant Coaches: Russ Schlager<br />

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40 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 41


YORK<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Garrett Snodgrass (6’3’’ 225 lbs) Sr. QB/LB<br />

Noah Starfursky (6’4’’ 315 lbs) Sr. T/DT/DE<br />

Brady Danielson (6’3’’ 205 lbs) Sr. WR/CB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Alliance<br />

8/31 Blair<br />

9/7 McCook<br />

9/14 @ Omaha Skutt Catholic<br />

9/21 @ Beatrice<br />

9/28 Hastings<br />

10/5 @ Northwest<br />

10/12 @ Seward<br />

10/19 Crete<br />

Glen Snodgrass<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will have some very good players on our team with a great senior class, but depth will be a serious issue for us this season as<br />

we lost a very good and deep senior class. Our top unit offensive line will be very good but once again we will need to develop<br />

our underclassmen. If we can stay healthy, we will be a very good football team once again. Our schedule certainly spans the entire<br />

state with killer back-to-back weeks of McCook and Skutt in weeks 3 and 4 that we are looking forward to as great Nebraska high<br />

school football games.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of our team is our experience and talent in our senior class. This group has won in every sport at every level since they<br />

where very young. This group has also been the hardest working kids I have ever been around. We have four players in our senior<br />

class who have received either offers or interest from Division I football programs. We also have very good leadership with those<br />

boys. This year we will have three first team all-state players returning including two first team all-class super state players. Our<br />

underclassmen are working hard to fill in and provide depth for us. There are some potentially very good players in our younger<br />

groups.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our boys want to prepare the best they can this summer and fall and they play as hard as they can every week. We always want to<br />

improve every week and be playing our best in our last game. Our kids realize that our state title was a great memory but it will<br />

do us no good this year so it is up to them to EARN it all over again this year. Our motto is “W.E. are still Hungry”. Our boys are<br />

not satisfied with what they accomplished last year, they are eager to go out and get started again.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our two biggest challenges are a tough schedule with traditionally good teams every week, and a lack of depth particularly in the<br />

OL. I feel like we have as good of a top 5 at OL as anybody in the state but we need to develop depth. There are a few younger<br />

offensive linemen who have a lot of potential.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Dukes<br />

Class: B<br />

2017 Record: 12-1<br />

Head Coach: Glen Snodgrass<br />

Career Record: 149-58<br />

Assistant Coaches: Matt Kern<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Title Town is hoping to add another trophy in <strong>2018</strong>. York, which had an incredible<br />

2017-18 athletic season, looks to keep the school’s momentum going and no program<br />

on the York campus may have a better chance at a state championship than football.<br />

The Dukes have a loaded roster, led by Nebraska recruit Garrett Snodgrass. A regular<br />

on the Friday night highlight reels, Snodgrass runs with great speed and escapability.<br />

His production is aided by York’s talented offensive line, which is among the best<br />

in Class B. Defensively, the Dukes allowed less than 14 points per game during last<br />

season’s title run. The unit may be even better this fall.<br />

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CENTRAL CITY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Koby Brandenburg (5’11” 160 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

Brule Kearney (5’11” 270 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

AJ Longoria (5’11” 210 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ St. Paul<br />

8/31 Columbus Scotus<br />

9/7 ONeill<br />

9/14 @ Ord<br />

9/21 @ Milford<br />

9/28 GICC<br />

10/5 Fairbury<br />

10/12 @ Fillmore Central<br />

10/19 Aurora<br />

214 20TH ST • CENTRAL CITY, NE<br />

Troy Huebert<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We return good experience on the defensive side of the ball. We played a lot of young guys and really got better as the year went<br />

on, so we should continue to grow on that side of the ball. On offense, we’ll have some new faces but have a good building block<br />

with our returning offensive line. I’ve been really pleased with the development of our three young quarterbacks and feel good<br />

about all of them leading this football team.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of our team will be our defense. Our defense will carry us. We have a lot of returners on that side. We have some good<br />

senior leaders, which will be crucial.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We strive to make it to the playoffs every year; that’s a goal of ours. We want to keep the streak going and we feel we have a team<br />

to do that.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have to overcome some losses at big positions. We have to replace a quarterback and a few receviers. There are a few pieces we<br />

have to fill in. Also, our schedule presents some different challenges. It’s going to be different. We have to get off to a great start.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Central City’s offense will have several new faces this fall. Its defense will not. Anchored by Koby Brandenburg, the Bison ‘D’ will set the tone for<br />

Central City this season. Look for Troy Huebert’s team to take on a bit of a different identity, as it has typically relied on a pass-happy, up-tempo<br />

offense. The scheme will be the same, but there may be growing pains as CCHS replaces its starting quarterback and a go-to wide receiver in Ethan<br />

Deboer. There is a three-player race to be the starting QB for the Bison, which will be an extremely important decision for head coach Troy Huebert.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bison<br />

Class C1<br />

2017 Record: 7-4<br />

Head Coach: Troy Huebert<br />

Career Record: 30-20<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jason Phelps,<br />

Trevor Wright<br />

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COZAD<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Blake Hoffmaster (5’11” 175 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Adam Cole (6’3” 185 lbs) Sr. QB/LB<br />

Luke Breon (6’0” 180 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Ord<br />

8/31 @ Gothenburg<br />

9/7 @ Chase County<br />

9/14 Sidney<br />

9/21 @ Holdrege<br />

9/28 Minden<br />

10/5 @ Kearney Catholic<br />

10/12 Lexington<br />

10/18 Adams Central<br />

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Brian Cargill<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We feel like we can compete for a playoff spot if our line develops and we stay away from injuries with our skill players.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We had a lot of young players start and play significant minutes last year so our strength is in our returning experience.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We should be in the race for our district and compete for a playoff spot.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We need to improve our kicking game and do our best to hopefully avoid injuries.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Cozad had a rough 2017 but that could lead to a big <strong>2018</strong>. The Haymakers return eight starters on each side of the ball and believe this fall could be<br />

a return to the playoffs. Coach Brian Cargill’s offense will rely on QB Adam Cole and RB Blake Hoffmaster. The program is five years removed from<br />

its 2013 state championship and the Haymakers are hoping to make another run in the postseason.<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Haymakers<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 2-7<br />

Head Coach: Brian Cargill<br />

Career Record: 41-45<br />

Assistant Coaches: Scott<br />

Adkisson, Dreu Young<br />

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LINCOLN CHRISTIAN<br />

BOONE CENTRAL-NEWMAN GROVE<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Joe Dworak (5’8” 180 lbs) Sr. QB/RB/LB<br />

Hunter Hohlen (6’0” 175 lbs) Sr. QB/RB/OLB<br />

Trent Lockard (6’1” 170 lbs) Sr. WR/FS<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Platteview<br />

8/31 Omaha Concordia<br />

9/7 @ Kearney Catholic<br />

9/14 Bishop Neumann<br />

9/21 @ Falls City<br />

9/28 Lincoln Lutheran<br />

10/5 Ashland-Greenwood<br />

10/12 @ Auburn<br />

10/19 Nebraska City<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Carter Henry (5’11” 205 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Will Frey (6’3” 220 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Jon Merten (6’2” 230 lbs) Sr. OL/DT<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 O’Neill<br />

8/31 @ Ord<br />

9/7 Columbus Lakeview<br />

9/14 @ Arlington<br />

9/21 LVSS<br />

9/28 @ West Point-Beemer<br />

10/5 Aurora<br />

10/12 Wayne<br />

10/19 @ Pierce<br />

Kurt Earl<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We believe our program is headed in the right direction, but we do have to replace eight very talented seniors. We believe we have<br />

the potential to be a good team this year and we know that it will take a uniquely unselfish effort from every man on the team to<br />

reach our goals.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

This year’s team has enjoyed the journey. They like the hard work required to be their best and they are learning a lot about how<br />

to use their talents for God’s glory.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We believe we can compete with every team on our schedule, but we know the margin for error is very small. The difference<br />

between 2-7 or 3-6 and 6-3 or 7-2 may literally be a handful of plays.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are extremely young and have a limited number of young men out for football. Developing our young players and staying<br />

healthy are critical for us this season.<br />

Mark Hudson<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We graduated quite a few players off the state runner-up team but have a good group of seniors coming back. Our junior class is<br />

very small, so depth will be a big concern. Health will be the #1 factor in our season. If we stay healthy we expect to compete for a<br />

playoff spot and be competitive in our district.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our kids have committed to the off-season and are developing themselves as well as any group.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

If we stay healthy, we expect to be competitive in the district and for a playoff spot.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Depth. We have a low number of boys out as upperclassmen.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Lincoln Christian took a big step forward under second-year head coach Kurt Earl in 2017. The Crusaders hope to continue moving forward, albeit<br />

at a slower rate in Earl’s third season leading the Crusaders. The <strong>2018</strong> roster has some concerning gaps after graduating the team’s top passer, rusher,<br />

and receiver. Senior Joe Dworak may turn into a do-everything kind of player for the Crusaders this fall. Defensively, Lincoln Christian must limit<br />

big plays. The Crusaders allowed four opponents to score 30 points or more last year. In each instance, the Crusaders lost.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Boone Central-Newman Grove will look to use last season’s magical ride to Memorial Stadium as momentum for <strong>2018</strong>. The Cardinals graduated<br />

several kids from the runner-up team but will see a good group of seniors take over. Head coach Mark Hudson has known nothing but winning in<br />

his time leading the team and expect this season to be the same. With new names contributing, the Cardinals might start out slow but are expected<br />

to be a well-oiled machine late in the season heading into playoffs.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Crusaders<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Kurt Earl<br />

Career Record: 10-9<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ben Manley<br />

Team Name: Cardinals<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 10-3<br />

Head Coach: Mark Hudson<br />

Career Record: 95-45<br />

Assistant Coaches: Dan Zoucha,<br />

Eric Albers, Corey Thome, Michael<br />

Volker, Nolan Vandenberg,<br />

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FAIRBURY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Joseph Melcher (6’3” 220 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Seth Firmanik (5’11” 185 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Chance Amundson (5’10” 170 lbs) Jr. WR/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

Kameron Lenhart<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Auburn<br />

8/31 @ Beloit KS<br />

9/7 Ashland-Greenwood<br />

9/14 Falls City<br />

9/21 @ Aurora<br />

9/28 Milford<br />

10/5 @ Central City<br />

10/12 @ Sandy Creek<br />

10/19 Fillmore Central<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our team will be a different team than last year. We will have many new faces on the field and will need to have new leaders<br />

emerge. I believe we have the talent to continue to be successful. As a staff we will have to continue to develop our younger players<br />

as our roster size won’t be the biggest. It comes down to how hard we work in the off-season to determine our success in the fall.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

I believe one of our strengths coming back is we have new players who want the opportunity to be star. They have sat behind very<br />

good players for two years and now know it’s their time, their opportunity, to seize the day. I also believe we have leaders who<br />

believe in our system and will do a good job at sharing it with the incoming freshman.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We know we lost a lot of talent with last year’s senior class, but we look at it as an opportunity for our next group coming up. They<br />

have the ability to continue what the class before them accomplished, but it will take sacrifice, love, energy, and direction.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The Jeffs have many new players who will take the field for the first time at the varsity level. It will take time for them to get used<br />

to the pace of the game and how fast it really is. We will have to adjust to the learning curve of our players, and as a staff make<br />

adjustments that put our players in the best position to be successful.<br />

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KEVIN SJUTS<br />

A record-setting season had a disappointing finish in Fairbury last fall. The Jeffs earned the 2-seed in Class C1 playoffs, only to lose in the first round<br />

to Pierce. Fairbury hopes to erase that memory in <strong>2018</strong>, which may be easier said than done. The Jeffs have a young and unproven roster after leaning<br />

on its talented senior class in <strong>2018</strong>. Fairbury has only five returning starters, including Seth Firmanik who had 59 tackles as a sophomore. As a team,<br />

Fairbury rushed for more than 3,000 yards last fall. Only 5% of that production returns this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Jeffs<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 9-1<br />

Head Coach: Kameron Lenhart<br />

Career Record: 17-3<br />

Assistant Coaches: Matt Edson,<br />

Derek Garfield, Mike Fisher,<br />

Cory Schweitzer, Jay Gerths<br />

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GOTHENBURG<br />

RAYMOND CENTRAL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Owen Geiken (6’ 190 lbs) So. LB/RB<br />

Josh Olson (6’7” 245 lbs) Sr. O/DL<br />

Maguire Bartlett (6’ 185 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 9<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Chase County<br />

8/31 Cozad<br />

9/7 Holdrege<br />

9/14 @ Adams Central<br />

9/21 O’Neill<br />

9/28 Broken Bow<br />

10/5 @ Valentine<br />

10/12 Ogallala<br />

10/19 @ Ord<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Mikey McCoy (5’8” 150 lbs) Jr. RB/DB<br />

Easton Albrecht (5’10” 170 lbs) Sr. Ath/LB<br />

Tyler Egger (5’11” 200 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Douglas County West<br />

8/31 @ Falls City<br />

9/7 Louisville<br />

9/14 @ Nebraska City<br />

9/21 Columbus Scotus<br />

9/28 @ Wahoo<br />

10/5 Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

10/12 Bishop Neumann<br />

10/19 @ Columbus Lakeview<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Craig Haake<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The Swedes are optimistic for the upcoming year. We played a lot of underclassmen and they came along great last year.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our strengths will be in the linebacking and offensive backfield. We can go 6-7 deep at linebacker without a dropoff (we return our<br />

five leading tacklers from last year). We bring back two starting quarterbacks and our top four rushers from last year, so we have<br />

quality depth in all those spots. Our defensive backfield will also be a strength - Vincent is a three-year starter at safety.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We need to solidify the offensive line but we have two starters returning so we can build around Josh and Tucker. We need also to<br />

find some defensive linemen but we have some guys working hard in the weight room.<br />

<strong>2018</strong> sets up for a potentially monster season for Gothenburg. The Swedes have all the tools to not only make the<br />

playoffs but make a run at Memorial Stadium. The team’s backfield is loaded with talent and veteran guys that will<br />

give fits to just about any defense. If the lines can develop by the season’s end, the sky is the limit. The Swedes were<br />

bounced in the first round of last year’s playoffs and the team is not only hungry to get back, but to make a statement<br />

in early November.<br />

Wade Houchin<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Coming into my first year and still being very much into my evaluations, making accurate assessments on our outlook for the<br />

season is difficult. However, I love the energy and investment our guys are beginning to show during our off-season workouts.<br />

We have great kids and a solid group of emerging leaders who want to reach their potential. I’ve loved my first couple months<br />

getting to know our guys! When we get everyone on board with our cultural expectations and new schematic approaches, I believe<br />

significant improvement in many areas will be the result. Our staff and our players must commit to the process of building and<br />

sustaining our cultural expectations with increased ownership passed on and facilitated by our leaders. We are focused on specific<br />

behaviors that emulate our core beliefs of effort, attitude, and trust. Our outcomes will largely depend on how we live those beliefs<br />

out each day. I’m grateful to the administration at Raymond Central for the opportunity to lead this program and am excited to<br />

work under leaders that share the same progressive vision for our program and the school district as a whole.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Right now our main strengths are the unity that is being created during our off-season workouts and the investment a core group<br />

of players are showing with regard to our core beliefs. On the field, though hard to fully assess presently, one strength is going to<br />

be our flexibility to put guys where we need them to execute our schemes. I feel like we have the personnel to create opportunities<br />

and make the necessary plays within our systems to be successful. The upperclassmen and the leadership that they will bring is<br />

going to be what drives and sustains us through the season and we have some young talent that could help us this year as well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our expectations are to get better every day and put a quality product out there that our kids and our stakeholders can be proud<br />

of. I hear lots of talk about our schedule being tough, and we do play some “perennial powers”, but I can’t be concerned with who<br />

the next opponent is. My focus starts and stops with what we are doing as a team to own our individual and collective behaviors,<br />

which over time will directly correlate to our outcomes. It only serves us to focus on what we can control and doing our part to<br />

grow each day on and off the field. We expect our leaders to be intentional about doing their part to build and sustain a culture<br />

that strives for elite outcomes. We expect alignment to our beliefs and behaviors throughout the program and we expect to have<br />

FUN doing it!<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Swedes<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 7-3<br />

Head Coach: Craig Haake<br />

Career Record: 138-102<br />

Assistant Coaches: Tom Scott,<br />

Justin Dowdy, Jerry Wiggins,<br />

Bryan Bazata, Jesse Kincheloe,<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Mustangs<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Wade Houchin<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Pat<br />

Harrington, Steve Rose, Adison<br />

Kenning, Andrew Hoffman,<br />

Chad Kendall, Ryan Baker<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

The Wade Houchin era at Raymond Central is set to begin with excitement<br />

and enthusiasm. Houchin has brought on renewed hope to a program with<br />

ten playoff appearances. The Mustangs will be learning new terminology and<br />

schemes, so naturally there will be growing pains. However, the RCS roster<br />

isn’t deprived of talent. 16 starters return, including Easton Albrecht who<br />

averaged 11 tackles per game last season.<br />

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AURORA<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Baylor Scheierman (6’5” 185) Sr. QB<br />

Cade Reichardt (5’11” 180) Sr. WR<br />

Jordan Stevenson (6’3” 190) Sr. WR/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 9<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 9<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Adams Central<br />

8/31 @ Kearney Catholic<br />

9/7 Wahoo<br />

9/14 @ Northwest<br />

9/21 Fairbury<br />

9/28 @ Fillmore Central<br />

10/5 @ BC/NG<br />

10/12 Milford<br />

10/19 @ Central City<br />

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Kyle Peterson<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We return a number of starters on both sides of the ball. We have great experience at most of our skill positions on offense and the<br />

back half of our defense. This team’s success will rely on the development of chemistry and depth in the offensive and defensive<br />

lines.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have returning experience at QB and most offensive skill positions. Those kids are good athletes and very comfortable with<br />

what we do offensively. We have a chance to be explosive on that side of the ball.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Line development on both sides of the ball and how well we can defend the run will ultimately determine how successful this team<br />

will become. Our goals will always be the same regardless - compete for a district championship and be playing our best ball at the<br />

end of the season to put ourselves in a position for postseason success.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have to replace our leading rusher and tackler from a year ago. Finding a reliable run game that compliments what we can do<br />

throwing the ball is a must. We will not be big along the line of scrimmage on either side of the ball, so finding ways to successfully<br />

run and stop the run will be a challenge.<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Class C1 beware! Aurora drops in classification this year and instantly becomes one of the top teams in Class C1. With three championship game<br />

appearances over the past ten years, the Huskies were extremely competitive in Class B. Now with new opponents and a lighter schedule, Aurora<br />

figures to be a consistent state contender. Head coach Kyle Peterson cautions anyone thinking Aurora will have a cake-walk in Class C1. He believes<br />

some of the best teams in the class are as good, if not better, than some schools in Class B. Quarterback Baylor Scheierman returns after passing for<br />

nearly 2,500 yards and 28 touchdowns last season. He’s a special talent with an experienced supporting cast.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Huskies<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 5-5<br />

Head Coach: Kyle Peterson<br />

Career Record: 25-9<br />

Assistant Coaches: Tim Elge,<br />

Phil Thramer, Scott Jones,<br />

Garret Johns, KC Lathrop<br />

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BROKEN BOW<br />

ADAMS CENTRAL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Grayson Garey (6’1’’ 180 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

Josh Harvey (6’2’’ 180lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

Drew Drake (6’ 280 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Kearney Catholic<br />

8/31 @ Minden<br />

9/7 Ogallala<br />

9/14 @ Chadron<br />

9/21 Valentine<br />

9/28 @ Gothenburg<br />

10/5 Ord<br />

10/12 @ O’Neill<br />

10/19 Centura<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Evan Johnson (6’4” 180 lbs) Jr. QB<br />

Gabe Conant (5’9” 165 lbs) Jr. RB<br />

Landon Weber (6’1” 215 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 9<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Aurora<br />

8/31 Milford<br />

9/7 @ Lincoln Lutheran<br />

9/14 Gothenburg<br />

9/21 @ Ord<br />

9/28 Holdrege<br />

10/5 @ Minden<br />

10/12 Kearney Catholic<br />

10/18 @ Cozad<br />

Mike Garner<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We return good experience along both lines, and we have an experienced quarterback and receiver corps. I am cautiously optimistic.<br />

We have a tough non-district schedule with Kearney Catholic, Ogallala, and Chadron; our district is always tough, but I think we<br />

have a chance.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Most of our experience is up front, with returning all-district linemen Drew Drake and Trey Brooks, and returning starters Griffin<br />

Wright and Colton Duda. If these kids continue to develop, they’ll give us a solid nucleus to build around.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We were 4-5 a year ago and lost some good players, but I think a realistic expectation is 5-4 or 6-3 and a return to the state playoffs.<br />

That’s what this group of seniors - who have won conference or district titles in every sport but football - really want for themselves.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Right now, we don’t have a tremendous amount of depth. We need to replace two linebackers who were each three-year starters.<br />

Really, I think finding replacements for those two players will be our greatest challenge.<br />

Shawn Mulligan<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We continue to improve over the summer and stay healthy during the season, we can put a very competitive team on the field<br />

each Friday night.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our strength is our experience as we return many players with starting experience. We will be a very difficult team to defend as<br />

we have one of the better QBs and RBs in class C1.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our goal is to go 1-0 every week. We are taking this season on a week-by-week basis. If we accomplish our goal, the season will<br />

end in a very positive way.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Finding two middle linebackers. They are our leading tacklers year in and year out.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

If there’s one word to describe <strong>2018</strong>’s Broken Bow team, it’s hungry. The Indians are coming off a 4-5 season and were left out of the playoffs,<br />

something that doesn’t happen often with this program. However, last season’s struggles could benefit BB this fall. Despite a tough schedule, Broken<br />

Bow should be ready to jump back in the postseason with a seasoned squad. It’s one that features a great line and experience in the backfield. These<br />

kids have been district winners in other sports and now it’s time to add football.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The offensive combo of quarterback Evan Johnson and running back Gabe Conant look to lead Adams Central back into the playoffs for the first<br />

time since 2013. The Patriots went 4-5 in 2017 but many of those losses were by a touchdown or less. AC returns nine starters on offense and eight on<br />

defense so on-field knowledge won’t be a problem for the Pats. It’s a week-by-week approach for Adams Central and that is a good mindset as the<br />

Patriots open up at Aurora. This season could be a breakout one for Adams Central and if things go right, the Patriots should be back in the playoffs.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Indians<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Mike Garner<br />

Career Record: 122-75<br />

Assistant Coaches: Luke Coufal,<br />

Brandon Myer, Ryan Werovick,<br />

Mark Shaw<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Patriots<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Shawn Mulligan<br />

Career Record: 14-22<br />

Assistant Coaches: Josh Lewis<br />

56 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 57


FILLMORE CENTRAL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Riley Moses (6’3” 275 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Jacob Stoner (5’10” 170 lbs) So. RB/LB<br />

Seth Kenley (6’0” 200 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Columbus Lakeview<br />

8/31 Holdrege<br />

9/7 Sandy Creek<br />

9/14 @ Minden<br />

9/21 @ Superior<br />

9/28 Aurora<br />

10/5 @ Milford<br />

10/12 Central City<br />

10/19 @ Fairbury<br />

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What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will need our underclassmen to step up and play key roles on both sides of the ball in order for us to be competitive. We<br />

developed a lot of experience last year in younger players but we will need to continue to build strength and depth. A small senior<br />

class will provide additional challenges but our development in the off-season and summer will be key for us to get back to being<br />

successful. We also have moved up from C2 to C1 and even though we had a very tough schedule last season our new schedule<br />

will be even more difficult at the C1 level.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have multiple backs who return from last season who will carry the ball for us and we will rely on our returning linemen<br />

to help us be successful in the run game. Our line is anchored by our three-year returning starter Riley Moses who will look to have<br />

a great senior year on both sides of the ball.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will look to build consistency and be competitive at the C1 level. Our schedule will provide varying degree of challenges in<br />

which we will need to stay healthy at multiple positions in order to be successful.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Staying healthy because of our lack of depth and stepping up the challenges of a C1 schedule that has a couple of B teams that<br />

moved down and some very successful opponents that are consistently ranked in C1.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

After starting the 2017 season 1-1, Filmore Central dropped its last seven games. The Panthers face another difficult schedule with the jump up to<br />

C1 but the team is hoping to rely on its run game to help win games. Known for his talents on the mat and the football field, Riley Moses will be the<br />

anchor this season on offense and defense. Filmore Central is looking to string together some wins this season and continue to strive for its first trip<br />

to the playoffs since 2014.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Panthers<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Mitchell Lockhart<br />

Career Record: 4-14<br />

Assistant Coaches: Alex Moses,<br />

Adam Verhage, Matt Tobias,<br />

Michael Brower<br />

906 G St<br />

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58 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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KEARNEY CATHOLIC<br />

MILFORD<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Sam Clinch (6’3” 270 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Eli Richter (6’5” 230 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Linden Howe (6’0” 210 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Broken Bow<br />

8/31 Aurora<br />

9/7 Lincoln Christian<br />

9/14 @ Ogallala<br />

9/21 @ Minden<br />

9/28 Sutton<br />

10/5 Cozad<br />

10/12 @ Adams Central<br />

10/19 Holdrege<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Mitch Wingard (5’9” 185 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Nate Mensik (6’1” 175 lbs) Sr. QB/CB<br />

Sam Copley (5’9” 170 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Falls City<br />

8/31 @ Adams Central<br />

9/7 @ Auburn<br />

9/14 Lincoln Lutheran<br />

9/21 Central City<br />

9/28 @ Fairbury<br />

10/5 Fillmore Central<br />

10/12 @ Aurora<br />

10/19 Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Rashawn Harvey<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We plan to contend for our district title and qualify for state playoffs. We will need many of our younger players to step up and<br />

fill roles of graduated seniors.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength of our team will be that we will have athletic players that will be able to play multiple positions. Additionally,<br />

depth will be in favor at several key positions.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We expect our team to contend for the district title and qualify for the playoffs. We must be able to lean on our defense this season<br />

to allow time for our offense to develop and grow through game experience.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

One of our biggest challenges this season will be replacing a 2.5-year starter, all-state QB, C1 record holding QB Matt Masker. We<br />

will have three young men battling for the starting QB position. Additionally, we must replace three starters on the offensive line,<br />

plus several key secondary players.<br />

The biggest question heading into <strong>2018</strong> for Kearney Catholic is how do you replace Matt Masker. The Nebraska walk-on broke Scott Frost’s C1 record<br />

for passing touchdowns and now the Stars must find a replacement. Kearney Catholic is also young on the offensive line and it will need to protect<br />

this year’s QB. There is a culture of winning with this program so expect Rashawn Harvey’s team to get it figured out pretty quickly. The Stars have<br />

some tough games early but expect them to gain confidence throughout the year and be in position to make the playoffs.<br />

Marty Hingst<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We had several of these guys that had to start three years ago, they had to endure. They’ve had to be better first in the weight room<br />

and they’ve made strides there. With those lessons learned, we’re looking forward to the <strong>2018</strong> season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength is with key players returning. Our leading rusher from last year, Mitch Wingard (1211 yards rushing), is coming<br />

back as is our starter at QB, Nate Mensik. Also on offense are three starting O-linemen: Evan Richard, Zach Schluckebier, and<br />

Carson Stauffer. Defensively, our leading tackler LBer, Sam Copley, and five other starters will return.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

This is tricky to reply to: we only have two teams on our schedule that are the same as last year—Adams Central and Fairbury.<br />

Fairbury won our district last year and Adams Central was young. We open with Falls City; we haven’t played them in years. Then<br />

in week 3 we have Auburn, a state qualifier last year, followed by Lincoln Lutheran, state semi-finalist. We then get to our district:<br />

Central City, Fairbury, Fillmore Central, and Aurora (who will be the district favorite). We close with always good Doniphan-<br />

Trumbull. So many new teams, very hard to predict the outcomes.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We’ve got to get better playing defense, more consistent defense. We can make huge strides here with hard work. Good teams start<br />

with a strong defense.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

After co-oping with Dorchester in recent seasons, Milford is back to playing independently. The separation shouldn’t come with many challenges,<br />

as most of the players were from the Milford school district. The Eagles will have a balanced roster with an experienced core group. Though Milford<br />

has some extremely difficult opponents, a winning season and playoff berth are very possible.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Stars<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 7-3<br />

Head Coach: Rashawn Harvey<br />

Career Record: 17-5<br />

Assistant Coaches: Paul<br />

Brungardt<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Marty Hingst<br />

Career Record: 255-164-2<br />

Assistant Coaches: Tony Muller,<br />

Ryan Voelker, TJ Austin<br />

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LINCOLN LUTHERAN<br />

MINDEN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Cayden Bergt (5’10’’ 160 lbs) Sr. LB/WR<br />

Colby Bliss (5’7’’ 150 lbs) Sr. CB/WR/RB<br />

Noah Steuber (6’0’’ 215 lbs) Sr. G/DT<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Omaha Concordia<br />

8/30 Bishop Neumann<br />

9/7 Adams Central<br />

9/14 @ Milford<br />

9/21 Nebraska City<br />

9/28 @ Lincoln Christian<br />

10/5 @ Auburn<br />

10/12 Falls City<br />

10/19 @ Ashland-Greenwood<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

JC McDowell (5’8” 200 lbs) Sr. LB/G<br />

Eddie Gonzalez (5’6” 165 lbs) Jr. RB/DB<br />

Aiden Smith (6’3” 190 lbs) Sr. LB/FB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 9<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Gibbon<br />

8/31 Broken Bow<br />

9/7 @ Sidney<br />

9/14 Fillmore Central<br />

9/21 Kearney Catholic<br />

9/28 @ Cozad<br />

10/5 Adams Central<br />

10/12 @ Holdrege<br />

10/19 @ Southern Valley<br />

Greg Nelson<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are looking to continue building off the success of our program the last two years. We have good experience overall but have<br />

lots of new guys in key roles that will need to step up for us to be successful.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our WR core and defensive backfield are key strengths. We have great depth at our skill positions with lots of experience as well.<br />

We will need them to make plays for us on both sides of the ball in order to have a great year.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are always trying to compete for a district title and a playoff berth. We have a much tougher schedule moving back up to C1<br />

but hope our development over the last few years will keep us competitive with the top teams.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have big shoes to fill at the QB and RB spots. We are hoping a couple juniors are able to step up for those spots. We also lost<br />

some key starters up front. Depth and experience on the line is key in this game and we will need to solidify our top guys quickly.<br />

Jebb Hatch<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be a young team again this year but we will have a lot more experience on the field than what we did last year. We look to<br />

be much improved offensively, with the kids being in the second year of the system.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have a lot more experience than we did last year, with the majority of our starters returning from last year. The kids have<br />

had an excellent off-season in the weight room.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We want to continue to improve each and every game. If we are able to do that we should be very competitive throughout the<br />

season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are still a young team and we need to continue to build confidence. We will continue to work on being more consistent each<br />

and every play.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Lincoln Lutheran had a breakout season in 2017. However, a lot has changed for the Warriors since last fall. Dual-threat quarterback Zach Clausen<br />

transfered to Lincoln East and the Warriors were moved up to Class C1. A playoff berth is still attainable for Greg Nelson’s program, which has been<br />

gaining momentum over the past few years. Colby Bliss, who scored even touchdowns as a junior, will be a key part of Lincoln Lutheran’s offense<br />

this fall. Most importantly, the Warriors will need production up front on both sides of the ball.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The goal is simple in <strong>2018</strong> for Minden—continue to get better every day and keep building confidence. The Whippets are coming off a 1-8 season<br />

where Jebb Hatch’s team faced a very difficult schedule. A lot of those teams are on the schedule again, but Minden should be much improved.<br />

Several starters are back and that means one more year of learning the playbook and getting stronger in the weight room. Minden hasn’t been to the<br />

playoffs since 2013, but if the Whippets can improve each week, that playoff goal will quickly be in sight for the program.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Warriors<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 9-3<br />

Head Coach: Greg Nelson<br />

Career Record: 17-22<br />

Assistant Coaches: Brett<br />

Shamblin, Chris Schaedel,<br />

Drew Guiney, Shannon White,<br />

Craig Tanner<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Whippets<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Jebb Hatch<br />

Career Record: 1-8<br />

Assistant Coaches: John Gumb,<br />

Aaron Martin, Connor Brown,<br />

Jake McCarthy, Donnie Miller<br />

62 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 63


ORD<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jesse Ulrich (5’11” 190 lbs) Sr. QB/SS<br />

Ethan Gabriel (5’11” 220 lbs) Jr. G/DE<br />

Jesus Loya (6’4” 245 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Cozad<br />

8/31 BC/NG<br />

9/7 @ Pierce<br />

9/14 Central City<br />

9/21 Adams Central<br />

9/28 @ O’Neill<br />

10/5 @ Broken Bow<br />

10/12 Valentine<br />

10/19 Gothenburg<br />

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Nate Wells<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our offensive line will be much improved and we have a three-year starter at the QB position. Our offensive skill positions will be<br />

solid. Defensively we will be tough and our special teams play will be much improved.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our strength is how hard our kids work in the classroom, weight room, and how they compete all year round. We have a large<br />

number of young men who are multi-sport athletes.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are looking to break through and make the playoffs this year since they restructured the playoffs a few years ago. We have<br />

finished 17th in power points the last two years and we are hungry and excited for the season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have started the last couple of seasons strong and not finished the way we would like to play at the end of the year. We are<br />

looking to finish better but it will be tough as our schedule has a number of quality opponents.<br />

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DAN COREY<br />

<strong>2018</strong> sets up for a potentially big season for Ord. The Chanticleers are coming off a 5-4 year and were on the outside looking in during the playoffs.<br />

This go-round, it could be different. QB Jesse Ulrich is back for another year taking snaps behind a solid offensive line. The motto is ‘finish’ with Ord<br />

after dropping three of its last four in 2017. This team has the talent and is veteran enough to make the playoffs something the school hasn’t done<br />

since 2013.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Chanticleers<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Nate Wells<br />

Career Record: 15-12<br />

Assistant Coaches: Nick Gates,<br />

Carl Streeter, Tyke Kozeal<br />

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64 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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O’NEILL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Spencer Dave (5’11” 195 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Dawson Winsor (5’8” 180 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Hunter McClellan (6’ 270 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ BC/NG<br />

8/31 Wayne<br />

9/7 @ Central City<br />

9/14 Battle Creek<br />

9/21 @ Gothenburg<br />

9/28 Ord<br />

10/5 @ St. Paul<br />

10/12 Broken Bow<br />

10/19 @ Valentine<br />

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Brock Eichelberger<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be very young and inexperienced in some key positions. I really like our chemistry throughout our team and if we continue<br />

to work hard in July we should be able to comete with our schedule!<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

I think our strength is chemistry and confidence. Our guys are ready to prove themselves and they believe that this is their<br />

opportunity.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our kids have a chance to compete in our district and we plan on working towards<br />

a District Title!<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our challenges are going to be leadership, consistency, and adapting to changes in<br />

the environment. We are very excited about our opportunity this season, but know<br />

it’s going to be a tough challenge!<br />

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DAN COREY<br />

2016 seems like yesterday for O’Neill fans, as the Eagles are trying to recreate a magical state title<br />

run this fall. O’Neill took a step back in 2017 going 3-6 and losing six of its last seven games. The<br />

schedule makers didn’t do the Eagles any favors as the team opens with Boone Central/Newman<br />

Grove in late August. It starts with the two-headed monster of Spencer Davis and Dawson Winsor<br />

who should give defenses fits. If O’Neill can get off to a quick start, the Eagles could make a return<br />

trip to the playoffs.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: C1<br />

2017 Record: 3-6<br />

Head Coach: Brock Eichelberger<br />

Career Record: 97-48<br />

Assistant Coaches: Seth Kallhoff,<br />

Ed Johnson, Brett Kaczor, Lance<br />

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FREEMAN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Tyler Adams (6’3” 220 lbs) Sr. TE/LB<br />

Austin Adams (6’1” 240 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Logan Anderson (5’10” lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

CENTENNIAL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Wyatt Ehlers (6’ 185 lbs) Sr. QB-FS<br />

8/24 @ Yutan<br />

8/31 Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

9/7 @ Sutton<br />

9/14 @ Sandy Creek<br />

9/21 Wilber-Clatonia<br />

9/28 @ Malcolm<br />

10/5 Johnson County Central<br />

10/12 @ Syracuse<br />

10/19 Conestoga<br />

Caleb Cast (6’3’’ 230 lbs) Sr. OT-DE<br />

Jackson Hirschfeld (6’ 175 lbs) Sr. WR-DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

8/24 @ Syracuse<br />

8/31 Malcolm<br />

9/7 @ Battle Creek<br />

9/14 Sutton<br />

9/21 Aquinas Catholic<br />

9/28 @ North Bend Central<br />

10/5 Shelby-Rising City<br />

10/11 @ David City<br />

10/19 @ Twin River<br />

Travis Andreasen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Freeman will look to push for a district title and playoff berth. We were very close last season and that will provide motivation<br />

for the team. We bring back an experienced offensive line. The skill position players are very athletic but do not have as much<br />

experience.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our senior class will be very strong. They are a deep group with talented skill players and linemen. Many of these guys have been<br />

three or four-year players and that should help break in the younger guys.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We expect to compete for the district title that eluded us last year. We have some strong motivation to reach that goal.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The big challenge for this team is replacing key parts of last year. We will have to break in a new starting quarterback and replace<br />

all-state caliber players at RB and WR. Even though we have quality players on the line, we lost a lot of depth. We will need to find<br />

younger guys step up to help get the main starters rest and fill in on special teams.<br />

Evan Klanecky<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength of our team this year will be our experience at the varsity level. We have many of our contributors that will be<br />

playing their fourth year at the varsity level; that makes them much more comfortable and they will be ready to go. This group also<br />

has great chemistry and uses weight room time and practice time very well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our goals will be to win the district and make it as far as we can in the playoffs. These guys understand better than most from<br />

making it to the finals that no one in the program can look too far ahead, and with our schedule we have to focus on one at a time<br />

knowing that our most important game is the next one.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The biggest challenge for this group will be numbers and depth. Our numbers are very small in our sophomore and junior classes<br />

and this will make for challenges with not only practice but JV game as well. Lot of our starters will be seniors this year and we<br />

have to find times to plug underclassman in to find them some experience.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

A late-season slide cost Freeman a playoff berth in 2017 and the Falcons want to make sure that doesn’t happen again. The frustrating finish led to<br />

some spirited off-season work-outs at Freeman, who is looking to end a three-year playoff drought. The Falcons’ roster may not have the star power<br />

as previous seasons (Jacob Gramann & Lane Cacek graduated), but there may be better overall depth and experience in <strong>2018</strong>. Logan Anderson is a<br />

veteran in the backfield that looks to carry the load as a senior. Anderson averaged more than six yards per rushing attempt in 2017. Freeman will be<br />

tested immediately this fall with a Week 1 contest against reigning Class C2 champion Yutan.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

There may be no greater opportunity for Centennial to win its first state championship than in <strong>2018</strong>. The Broncos’ roster is filled with talent and<br />

experience, and many fans have been pointing to this season for quite some time. Multiple players will become four-year starters this fall, including<br />

quarterback Wyatt Ehlers. The 6-foot senior has passed for more than 4,000 yards over his career and has steadily decreased his turnovers. Centennial<br />

used a simple formula during last year’s run to the Class C2 finals—win the turnover battle. If the Broncos can consistently do that again, expect to<br />

see them at Memorial Stadium in late November.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Falcons<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 6-3<br />

Head Coach: Travis Andreasen<br />

Career Record: 21-18<br />

Assistant Coaches: Tony Jensen,<br />

Marshall Payer, Joe Gramann<br />

Team Name: Broncos<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 12-1<br />

Head Coach: Evan Klanecky<br />

Career Record: 51-27<br />

Assistant Coaches: Craig<br />

Barjenbruch, Barry Eitzmanm,<br />

Josh Warren, Lute Brees, Ben<br />

Rickert<br />

SUNDAYS ON<br />

68 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 69


SUTTON<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Garrett Nuss (6’5” 260 lbs) Sr. OL<br />

James Griess (5’9” 175 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

Brett Simonsen (5’9” 190 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

Steve Ramer<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

With the work our team has done in the weight room and if we can pick up things early and execute, we will have avery good<br />

season. With our schedule, we will know how far we can go early.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our team speed will be very good in many positions and with 20 upperclassmen we will have great competition every week in<br />

practice.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our goal is to win the state title in C2 and that is what we are working for and preparing for.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Gaining experience and depth in the O-line.<br />

PROPANE - GAS - DIESEL - FERTILIZER - GRAIN - FLATBED HAULING<br />

8/24 North Platte St. Patrick’s<br />

8/31 @ Wilber-Clatonia<br />

9/7 Freeman<br />

9/14 @ Centennial<br />

9/21 Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

9/28 @ Kearney Catholic<br />

10/5 @ Sandy Creek<br />

10/12 Superior<br />

George Brothers Propane & Fertilizer<br />

10/19 @ Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

George Bros., Inc. - Trucking<br />

George’s 66 Easy Step<br />

3G Car Wash<br />

George’s Aerial Spraying<br />

SUTTON, NE - 1.800.228.4008<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Sutton has made the playoffs eight years in a row and look for this season to be no different. The Mustangs are coming off a 7-3<br />

season where they return seven starters on each side of the ball. There’s plenty of upperclassmen helping lead Sutton this off-season<br />

with the goal of a state championship in mind. Sutton hasn’t won a title since 1988, but if the chips fall right this season the ‘Stangs<br />

could add another trophy.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Mustangs<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 7-3<br />

Head Coach: Steve Ramer<br />

Career Record: 135-68<br />

Assistant Coaches: Craig Rafert,<br />

Zach Parrish<br />

OUR TEAM COVERING YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

70 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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GIBBON<br />

MALCOLM<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Chi Onate (6’3” 270 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Alex Lopez (5’8” 150 lbs) Sr. RB/OLB<br />

Danny Escandon (5’6” 130 lbs) Jr. RB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Minden<br />

8/31 @ Hershey<br />

9/7 @ Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

9/14 North Platte St. Patrick’s<br />

9/21 Bridgeport<br />

9/28 @ St. Paul<br />

10/5 Centura<br />

10/12 @ GICC<br />

10/19 Wood River<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Adam Stewart (5’9” 190 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Haydn Deinert (5’10” 205 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Cody Green (5’10” 210 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 GICC<br />

8/31 @ Centennial<br />

9/7 Yutan<br />

9/14 @ St. Paul<br />

9/21 @ Syracuse<br />

9/28 Freeman<br />

10/5 Conestoga<br />

10/12 @ Johnson County Central<br />

10/19 @ Wilber-Clatonia<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Mark McLaughlin<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Development in the summertime will be crucial for this group because we graduated some iconic players in our program. Our<br />

leading rusher, passer, receiver, and tackler are all gone. We will be breaking in a new quarterback. There isn’t a player on the<br />

roster that has completed a varsity pass. We have a few receivers coming back that have caught some passes and that should help<br />

a new QB. We graduated an all-state running back and a two-time all-state linebacker. Their presence on the field will obviously be<br />

missed on a Friday night, but our team’s success will depend on filling leadership roles at practice. We should be pretty solid on<br />

the offensive line because we return four kids there that have played significant minutes. Depth will be an issue across the board.<br />

We are going to have 25 players or so on the roster, so we will be leaning on younger kids to play significant minutes. I really think<br />

that we have some great pieces in place. Like most teams in class C2, our health will be tremendously important. With the small<br />

roster size we have to keep our guys on the field and healthy.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have four linemen on offense that have played significant minutes for us. One of the four, Austin McHale, is returning from<br />

an injury that cost him his sophomore season, but he played minutes as a freshman. We think we have an opportunity to develop<br />

a solid unit upfront on both sides of the ball.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We expect to be competitive in our district. St. Paul is the clear frontrunner in the district, but each of the other four teams return<br />

enough players to be competitive. We also believe that we can compete in our non-district games.<br />

Depth is going to be the story for Gibbon this season. The Buffaloes lose a lot of firepower on offense from a 5-4 team and continues to battle low<br />

numbers. However, Gibbon coach Mark McLaughlin expects to be competitive in not only district games but non-district battles as well. The strength<br />

of the squad could be the offensive line that looks to push the Buffaloes back to a winning season.<br />

Scott Amen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We bring back a lot of players that saw significant action last year. We hope to use the very difficult schedule from last year to build<br />

off the challenges that lay ahead of us.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a big senior class this year. They will need to show a commitment this summer to getting better.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will have a team that competes for four quarters every Friday night. Winning will take care of itself. Our team must develop<br />

the ability to hand adversity and compete.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Most teams in C2 always face the challenge of having enough depth up front to give the linemen some breaks. We will rely on some<br />

underclassmen to step up and give us some quality minutes.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

2017’s difficult schedule should result in wins for Malcolm in <strong>2018</strong>. The battle-tested Clippers have some relief ahead, though it won’t come until<br />

midway through the season. Malcolm faces both Class C2 finalists in back-to-back weeks (Centennial and Yutan), but beyond those games the<br />

schedule plays into the Clippers’ favor. Malcolm has experience through its roster and veterans at key positions. Look for Adam Stewart to be very<br />

productive as the Clippers’ top offensive weapon.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Buffaloes<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Mark McLaughlin<br />

Career Record: 45-37<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jeff<br />

Montgomery, Ben Fehringer,<br />

Mitch DeMars<br />

FEBRUARY 3, 2019<br />

Team Name: Clippers<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 2-7<br />

Head Coach: Scott Amen<br />

Career Record: 57-58<br />

Assistant Coaches: Matt Coufal,<br />

Cole Gore, Dane Sackett, Zach<br />

Wehner<br />

72 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 73


ST. PAUL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Eli Larson (6’1” 209 lbs) So. FB/LB<br />

Carson Morgan (6’4” 210 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Wyatt Placke (5’7” 145 lbs) Sr. RB/CB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Central City<br />

8/31 @ Southern Valley<br />

9/7 @ Norfolk Catholic<br />

9/14 Malcolm<br />

9/21 @ Wood River<br />

9/28 Gibbon<br />

10/5 O’Neill<br />

10/12 @ Centura<br />

10/19 GICC<br />

ST. PAUL<br />

LOUP CITY<br />

CENTRAL CITY<br />

www.bankwithcitizens.com<br />

721 7TH St<br />

PO Box 385<br />

308.754.4426<br />

650 P St<br />

PO Box 624<br />

308.745.0573<br />

1634 16th St<br />

PO Box 177<br />

308.946.3018<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

Rusty Fuller<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We need to establish a quarterback that fits our system. We also need to improve our physicality on both sides of the ball. If we can<br />

become mentally and physically tough and believe in the process, then the sky is the limit.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Strengths: We have depth at all positions. We are athletic, have speed, and size. I believe our defense will be our strength, especially<br />

our play in D-line. I really like our athletic ability!<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our goals are to win 7+ games in the regular season. We want to win a district championship. We want to make it past the first<br />

round of playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Weaknesses: Experience, we have a lot of younger players who will have to grow up quickly and fullfill their roles on our team.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Expectations are high coming into <strong>2018</strong> for St. Paul. The Wildcats didn’t make the playoffs in 2017 but went 5-4 and put up some big numbers<br />

offensively. Head coach Rusty Fuller leads a unit with tons of athletic ability and you can expect the Wildcats to score a lot of points. The goal is to<br />

take the district title and those around the program think it can be done with a return to the playoffs.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Wildcats<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Rusty Fuller<br />

Career Record: 40-57<br />

Assistant Coaches: Chris Smith,<br />

Chad Bauder<br />

608 Howard Ave, St Paul, NE 68873<br />

308-754-4611<br />

PROUDLY SUPPORTING ALL AREA SCHOOLS<br />

74 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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®<br />

GRAND ISLAND CENTRAL CATHOLIC<br />

SHELBY-RISING CITY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jacob Herbek (6’5” 210 lbs) Sr. DE/TE<br />

Blake Steinke (5’10” 170 lbs) Sr. RB/OLB<br />

Russel Martinez (5’8” 175 lbs) So. RB/OLB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Malcolm<br />

8/31 Superior<br />

9/7 @ NPSP<br />

9/14 North Bend Central<br />

9/21 @ Centura<br />

9/28 @ Central City<br />

10/5 Wood River<br />

10/12 Gibbon<br />

10/19 @ St. Paul<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Mason Schleis (5’9’’ 160 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

Max Hoatson (6’1’’ 190 lbs) Sr. WR/DL<br />

Austin Coffin (5’10’’ 160 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 10<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Battle Creek<br />

8/31 Sandy Creek<br />

9/7 Johnson County Central<br />

9/14 @ Superior<br />

9/21 @ David City<br />

9/28 Twin River<br />

10/5 @ Centennial<br />

10/12 North Bend Central<br />

10/19 Aquinas Catholic<br />

Timothy D. Dvorak<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are very excited about this upcoming season. The leadership displayed by last year’s senior class successfully changed the<br />

culture of our program in a positive way. Now that the tide has changed in our culture, our current seniors have made it their<br />

mission to “reset the standard” within the program in terms of our play and success on the field.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

It may seem cliche, but our potential is our greatest strength. We have a large number of talented young players (freshmen &<br />

sophomores) who will be major contributors this year, particularly on defense. While we expect them to make mistakes as all<br />

young players do, they have the opportunity to develop into a fine group of football players over the course of the season. This will<br />

not only give them experience, but provide a great deal of depth for the future which will allow us to rotate many players through<br />

each position keeping us fresh. Furthermore, the competition among these players will push each one to grow at an accelerated<br />

rate.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

As previously stated, we have a very young team with a lot of potential. We expect there to be many mistakes made this year, but<br />

out of those mistakes we will grow exponentially. This, combined with a schedule which is comprised entirely of 50-50 ballgames,<br />

we expect to be in every game with the challenge of finishing out as many as possible.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our greatest challenge will be in the trenches, as we lack size and experience on the line. Though small, our line is quick, and we<br />

hope to utilize our athleticism and great technique to accomplish the same goal.<br />

Kevin Kopecky<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We’re very excited about the upcoming season. We play some very good teams again this year, but we should be ready for that<br />

after playing one of the toughest schedules in the state the past two seasons. We know what it will take to be successful, now we<br />

just have to do it.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

This is really the year that we’ve been building for since I took this job three years ago. This group of seniors has played in a lot of<br />

football games together. There are some very good athletes with a lot of playing experience returning. If we can stay healthy and<br />

be a disciplined football team, we have a chance to be very good.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We’ll lack size in the offensive and defensive lines. We always try to run schemes that fit the type of players we have in our<br />

program, so I hope that helps with the line play.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Shelby-Rising City won three of its last four games last year and the Huskies’ hot stretch should continue into <strong>2018</strong>. Shelby-Rising<br />

City has a favorable start to its schedule where Kevin Kopecky’s club can build some early momentum. The Huskies have a playoffcaliber<br />

team that is experienced and battle-tested. Mason Schleis enters his senior season as the Huskies’ starting quarterback after<br />

totalling 10 touchdowns last year. He must limit interceptions if Shelby-Rising City wants to be competitive against C2 giants<br />

Centennial (Week 7) and Aquinas (Week 9).<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Crusaders<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 0-9<br />

Head Coach: Timothy D. Dvorak<br />

Career Record: 0-9<br />

Assistant Coaches: Kieth<br />

Kester, Tom Moore, Zach<br />

Schroder, Scott Brokaw, Brett<br />

Klein, James Martinez,<br />

John Goering<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

The first win of the Tim Dvorak era should come this season for GICC. The secondyear<br />

head coach worked tirelessly last year to change the Crusaders’ culture. Dvorak<br />

should be rewarded with at least a few victories this fall. Despite playing four of their<br />

first six games on the road, the Crusaders have a favorable schedule. GICC’s week one<br />

game against Malcolm could set the tone for the <strong>2018</strong> campaign.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Huskies<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Kevin Kopecky<br />

Career Record: 172-141<br />

Assistant Coaches: Eric Lindsley,<br />

Todd Pinneo, Jonathon Riggs,<br />

Jessie Truksa<br />

(FFA) gives you a real outlook<br />

on what you can do in life and<br />

still be a part of agriculture.<br />

- Carson Rathje, Shelby-Rising City FFA Officer<br />

To learn more about CVA and its commitment to FFA, visit cvacoop.com/we-are-cva<br />

76 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 77


WILBER-CLATONIA<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Coltin Rezabek (6’0” 180 lbs) Sr. IB/OLB<br />

Hunter Cerven (6’1” 215 lbs) Sr. FB/DE<br />

Tad Moldenhauer (5’8” 155 lbs) Jr. WB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Superior<br />

8/31 Sutton<br />

9/7 Archbishop Bergan<br />

9/14 @ Louisville<br />

9/21 @ Freeman<br />

9/28 Johnson County Central<br />

10/5 Syracuse<br />

10/12 @ Conestoga<br />

10/19 Malcolm<br />

WILBER<br />

PHYSICAL THERAPY, LLC<br />

THE RESULTS YOU WANT. THE CARE YOU DESERVE.<br />

STACEY BRANDT • DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY<br />

wilberphysicaltherapy.com<br />

402.821.3320 • 209 W. 3RD STREET • WILBER, NE<br />

FEBRUARY 3, 2019<br />

Lynn Jurgens<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be extremely young and inexperienced up front, but our skill kids are talented. We need to take care of the football and<br />

utilize our team speed. We have extremely talented sophomore and freshmen classes, but it is tough to win at the varsity level with<br />

kids that young.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have very good overall team speed. Our skill kids are pretty talented and have a lot of experience which should help us.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have a lot of quality football teams on our schedule and a lot of games that can go either way. We hope to contend for a district<br />

title and a spot in the playoffs, but that will not be an easy task.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have to build depth in our lines and try to get our linemen to play with an attitude. Depth is also an issue in our skill positions<br />

as we cannot afford to have any injuries and still hope to be successful.<br />

OUR TEAM COVERING YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Wilber-Clatonia’s stranglehold on Class C2 dominance will loosen a bit this fall. The Wolverines graduated several key players and now must<br />

rely on a wave of up-and-coming talent. Still, the Wolverines should be able to contend for a district championship in <strong>2018</strong>. Coltin Rezabek scored<br />

11 touchdowns last season while leading Wilber-Clatonia in rushing and receiving. Tad Moldenhauer will be a frequently-used weapon in the<br />

Wolverines’ offense. Plus, his name is fun to say!<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Wolverines<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Lynn Jurgens<br />

Career Record: 88-26<br />

Assistant Coaches: Tony<br />

Braithwait, Ryan Fuerhoff,<br />

Randy Homolka, Dave<br />

Newmyer, Lance Kuhlmann,<br />

Rich Zimmerman<br />

319W 3RD • WILBER, NE<br />

78 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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AQUINAS CATHOLIC<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Zach Chromy (6’ 230 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Miles Eggleston (6’2” 190 lbs) Sr. LB/HB<br />

Tad Naiberk (5’11” 200 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

DONIPHAN-TRUMBULL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Caleb Schuppan Sr. (5’11” 205 lbs) LB/OL<br />

8/24 @ Columbus Scotus<br />

8/31 @ Norfolk Catholic<br />

9/7 HCC<br />

9/14 Ponca<br />

9/21 @ Centennial<br />

9/28 @ David City<br />

10/5 North Bend Central<br />

10/12 Twin River<br />

10/19 @ Shelby-Rising City<br />

Adrienne Thomas (5’10” 255 lbs) Sr. DL/OL<br />

Keithen Stafford (6’ 165 lbs) Soph. RB/QB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

8/24 @ Wood River<br />

8/31 @ Centura<br />

9/7 Hershey<br />

9/14 Southern Valley<br />

9/21 @ Sutton<br />

9/28 Sandy Creek<br />

10/5 @ Superior<br />

10/12 Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

10/19 @ Milford<br />

Ron Mimick<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We could be a good team again if we avoid injuries and develop our skill kids. Our initial strength will be our run quickness. If we<br />

can develop a great attitude and work habits we could play into November.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Tradition, our expectation to be good and work to be good. We have gone 105-12 the last ten years with five state championship<br />

game appearances.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Hard to tell with a good C1 school to start with in Scotus and then the next four teams went 43-5 last year. We will be young, with<br />

small junior and senior classes of boys. Hopefull a winning record with a playoff spot.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our first five opponents will be a great challenge for us.<br />

Brent Breckner<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We look to continue to build off of a solid 2017 and continue to grow. Griffin Hendricks looks to compete for the staring quarterback<br />

job after throwing for over 1000 yards and winning a state championship at Yutan in 2017. Keithen Stafford will compete for the<br />

quarterback position but looks poised to be the workhorse at running back.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We return four starters on the offensive line and a lot of playing experience in the front seven on defense. Our D-line will be a real<br />

strength as well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will need some people to step up and develop in the secondary and in some of our skill positions. We have the ability to<br />

compete for a district title and to be competitive in the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Developing skill position players on offense and consistency in the secondary.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

The mighty Monarchs should be good again in <strong>2018</strong>. This year’s team, like previous Aquinas squads, will be physical, fundamentally sound, and<br />

stingy on defense. However, Aquinas will be playing its signature style with a new cast of characters. The Monarchs graduated their leader in<br />

passing, rushing, receiving, and tackles. Aquinas, though, will have experience up front with Zach Chromy and Tad Naiberk leading the way. The<br />

Monarchs have reached the playoffs in 17 consecutive years and there’s no reason to think the streak will end this fall.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

<strong>2018</strong> potentially sets up for a huge year for Doniphan-Trumbull. The Cardinals are looking to build off of last season’s playoff team that went on a<br />

tear late in the schedule. Doniphan-Trumbull’s Griffin Hendricks and Keithen Stafford will be tough to stop for any defense and the two will have a<br />

great offensive line blocking for them. The D-line also has familiar faces back but there are questions in the secondary. The goal for the Cards is not<br />

only reaching the playoffs but making a deep run.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Monarchs<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Ron Mimick<br />

Career Record: 290-112<br />

Assistant Coaches: Tony Smith,<br />

Dan Mettler, Roy Emory, Russ<br />

Schumacher, Ken Pelan, Marv<br />

Pelan<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Cardinals<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Brent Breckner<br />

Career Record: 48-31<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jordan<br />

Conner, Tyler Mogilefsky,<br />

80 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 81


SUPERIOR<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Adam Baker (6’1” 170 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

Jaden Hanson (5’10” 190 lbs) Sr. FB<br />

McKinney Edwards (6’3” 180 lbs) Sr. TE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Wilber-Clatonia<br />

8/31 @ GICC<br />

9/7 @ Centura<br />

9/14 Shelby-Rising City<br />

9/21 Fillmore Central<br />

9/28 @ Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

10/5 Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

10/12 @ Sutton<br />

10/19 Sandy Creek<br />

348 N Central Ave - Superior, NE - 402-879-4234<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

Brandon Siegel<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be a young and inexperienced team transitioning back to 11-man football for the <strong>2018</strong> season. We plan to work hard this<br />

off-season and at camp to gain the strength and experience necessary to be competitive in our district. I have a lot of confidence in<br />

the potential of this group of young men.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our strength should be the size of our offensive line. The boys up front will provide us with a good foundation in which to build<br />

a consistent run game.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I expect us to be competitive in our district as we make the transition back to 11-man. I expect our inexperienced players to get<br />

better as we get deeper into our season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge will be our overall inexperience as a team. Many of our young men will get their first opportunities to step<br />

up and take leadership roles on our team. I think this anxious group of young men will look forward to this opportunity.<br />

DOWNLOAD OUR MOBILE APP FOR<br />

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KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Superior returns to 11-man football this fall and the schedule-makers didn’t do the Wildcats any favors. Superior opens its <strong>2018</strong> campaign against<br />

perennial power Wilber-Clatonia. Beyond that, the Wildcats will have the opportunity to make some noise back in Class C2. Superior has starters<br />

back at ten positions. However, the Wildcats must replace the production of Chase Morris, who was the team’s top offensive playmaker. Expect<br />

Superior to be very run-oriented while mixing in passing plays to keep opponents off-balance.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Wildcats<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 3-5<br />

Head Coach: Brandon Siegel<br />

Career Record: 11-23<br />

Assistant Coaches: Syd Shepler,<br />

Seth Going<br />

82 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong><br />

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SOUTHERN VALLEY<br />

HASTINGS ST. CECELIA<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

AJ Weatherwax Soph. DT<br />

Brody Yant Soph. WR<br />

Brant Grove Sr. OT<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Sandy Creek<br />

8/31 St. Paul<br />

9/7 @ Wood River<br />

9/14 @ Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

9/21 Gordon-Rushville<br />

9/28 Hershey<br />

10/5 @ Bridgeport<br />

10/12 @ NPSP<br />

10/19 Minden<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Thomas Redinger (6’2’’ 185 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Ben Clark (5’9’’ 160 lbs) Sr. LB/RB<br />

Micah Heil (5’9’’ 160 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Hershey<br />

8/31 @ Freeman<br />

9/7 Gibbon<br />

9/14 Wood River<br />

9/21 @ Sandy Creek<br />

9/28 Superior<br />

10/5 @ Raymond Central<br />

10/12 @ Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

10/19 Sutton<br />

Russell Norton<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Very young and inexperienced.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Young and athletic skill position players returning.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Huge improvements from last season, .500 record.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Commitment and dedication to the program both in the summer and the fall.<br />

Carl Tesmer<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This season we look to improve on last year’s performance, although the schedule will be just as demanding.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a good amount of skill athletes on offense returning and some returning letterwinners at LB and in the secondary. Our<br />

running backs have speed and quickness. Our quarterback started all nine games in 2017.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

If we get off to a great start early and improve throughout the year, we have a good possibility of being a playoff team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our schedule has at least 4-5 playoff teams. We need to develop depth in the offensive and defensive lines where we have numbers<br />

and size, but not a lot of experience.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Southern Valley begins the <strong>2018</strong> season with the same match-up as its 2017 finale; and that’s a good thing. The Eagles defeated Sandy Creek in Week<br />

9, marking their only victory of the 2017 season. Southern Valley now looks to make it 2-in-a-row against the Cougars, which could jumpstart its<br />

upcoming campaign. Russell Norton is entering his first season as the Eagles’ head coach. He inherits a roster that is experienced and enthusiastic<br />

for a turnaround.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

As always, the goal is simple for St. Cecilia and that’s reaching the playoffs. The Bluehawks failed to do so in 2017 but Carl Tesmer’s team is shaping<br />

up to be a good one this fall. QB Thomas Redinger got valuable playing experience last year and that will benefit the team this year. The trenches<br />

should continue to develop through the season with the skill positions being solid. The schedule is once again difficult but this team looks like it could<br />

be the one to get St. Cecilia back in the postseason.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Russell Norton<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Dexter<br />

Becker, Jason Huerta<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bluehawks<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Carl Tesmer<br />

Career Record: 343-94-2<br />

Assistant Coaches: Cody<br />

Jackson, Ryan Ambrose, Jim<br />

Jackson, Gene Konen<br />

84 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 85


DAVID CITY<br />

WOOD RIVER<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Will Danielson (6’1” 180 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Justin White (5’10” 160 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

Josh Seibert (6’2” 176 lbs) Jr. LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Stanton<br />

8/31 Syracuse<br />

9/7 @ Conestoga<br />

9/14 @ HCC<br />

9/21 Shelby-Rising City<br />

9/28 Aquinas Catholic<br />

10/5 @ Twin River<br />

10/11 Centennial<br />

10/19 @ North Bend Central<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Tanner Hermann (6’ 180 lbs) Sr. QB/RB<br />

Jose Trejo (5’7” 140 lbs) Sr. WR<br />

Zane Turek (6’3” 270 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

8/31 @ Bridgeport<br />

9/7 Southern Valley<br />

9/14 @ Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

9/21 St. Paul<br />

9/28 Centura<br />

10/5 @ GICC<br />

10/12 Hershey<br />

10/19 @ Gibbon<br />

Cortney Couch<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We return a lot of experience at the skills positions offensively. The question will be how we fill in the holes in both the offensive<br />

and defensive lines. I know we have the guys to do it, but an awful lot is going to depend upon the quality of work we put in this<br />

summer.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Again, I think we return a lot of quality experience at our skill positions on offense and at the linebacker and secondary levels of<br />

the defense. We will be able to pick up stuff pretty quickly from last year, which will enable us to start fine-tuning and making<br />

adjustments early in the season.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

None of these guys have been to the playoffs, so that’s their goal. For that to happen, we’re going to have to go at least 6-3, which<br />

is no small feat. That being said, I do think the goal is reasonable and attainable.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Like most teams in Class C2, depth will be a concern at all positions. Some young guys are going to have to step up and be ready<br />

to contribute, especially in both the offensive and defensive lines.<br />

Jeff Ashby<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We look to improve on our 3-6 record from last season. We have some good returning starters from last year’s team and hope to<br />

add success with their experience.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of our team is in our experience with seven starters returning on offense/defense. We also have other players with a<br />

good amount of playing time. Our depth at each position should help us in the long season.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We want to come out of this season with a winning record which hasn’t been done here since 2008. We look to be competitive in<br />

all of our contests.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We need people to step up as our leaders. Leadership is what we need to improve on the most!<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Over the past seven seasons, David City has been striving to return to the Class C2 playoffs. It may happen this year. The Scouts have perhaps their<br />

most talented roster in the Cortney Couch era. Plus, they have experience at some key positions including quarterback. One concern is David City’s<br />

schedule. The Scouts have games against C2 contenders Hartington Cedar Catholic, Aquinas Catholic, and Centennial. If a 6-3 record is needed to<br />

earn a playoff berth, David City will have no room for error early in the season.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Wood River looks to leap back into the playoffs for the first time since 2008 this fall. Veteran head coach Jeff Ashby is coming off a 3-6 season but<br />

there’s plenty to build off of for the Eagles. Wood River lost a few close ones in 2017 and if it can change the outcome of those close games, it could<br />

spell a better <strong>2018</strong> fall. QB Tanner Hermann was 10 passing yards away from 1,000, so look for him to have a big season. If the bounces go Wood<br />

River’s way, the Eagles just might make that return to the postseason.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Scouts<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 2-7<br />

Head Coach: Cortney Couch<br />

Career Record: 36-38<br />

Assistant Coaches: Travis Worm,<br />

Tyler Brester, Joe Manley, Trevor<br />

Krenk, Trey Frey<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 3-6<br />

Head Coach: Jeff Ashby<br />

Career Record: 183-71<br />

Assistant Coaches: Clark Benne,<br />

Austin Ruskamp, Phil Smith,<br />

Dwight Jones<br />

SUNDAYS ON<br />

86 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 87


SANDY CREEK<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Connor Crumblis (5’10” 175 lbs) Jr. RB/SS<br />

Blake Janda (5’9” 155 lbs) So. QB/DB<br />

Joel Shuck (6’3” 245 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

Jack Shadley<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have high expectations for our team this season. The kids have been working extremely hard this off-season and improving<br />

every day.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

A lot of our players were freshmen and sophomores last year; with a year of experience under their belt I believe they will be able<br />

to contribute a lot more this upcoming season. Leadership provided by our upperclassmen will also be a key to our success.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our coaching staff has set very high expectations for our team this season. We hope to improve throughout the course of the season<br />

and hope to be contenders for the playoffs. We are going to compete in every game and improve on our record from last season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Building unity with our new staff will be a challenge for our team moving forward. Installing a new system with a new head coach<br />

will be another challenge we face this season<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

8/24 Southern Valley<br />

8/31 @ Shelby-Rising City<br />

9/7 @ Fillmore Central<br />

9/14 Freeman<br />

9/21 Hastings St. Cecilia<br />

9/28 @ Doniphan-Trumbull<br />

10/5 Sutton<br />

10/12 Fairbury<br />

10/19 @ Superior<br />

Jack Shadley is going from running plays to calling them. The recently-graduated Doane quarterback quickly found his first head coaching job<br />

at Sandy Creek. Shadley’s youthful energy has re-energized a program that went 0-9 last season. The Cougars have a young roster, but many of<br />

the players are experienced. For example, Blake Janda will be a second-year starter at quarterback as a sophomore. Expect Janda to make rapid<br />

improvement under Shadley’s tutelage.<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Cougars<br />

Class: C2<br />

2017 Record: 0-9<br />

Head Coach: Jack Shadley<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Cole<br />

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CROSS COUNTY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Grant Hollinger (6’2” 175 lbs) Sr. QB/LB<br />

Landen Berck (5’9” 165 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Colton Nuttelman (5’10” 150 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Wisner-Pilger<br />

8/31 @ Palmer<br />

9/14 Fullerton<br />

9/21 @ Osceola-High Plains<br />

9/28 East Butler<br />

10/5 @ Nebraska Lutheran<br />

10/12 @ BDS<br />

10/19 EMF<br />

Hayden DeLano<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This offseason has been busy for us. We are moving from 11-man to 8-man football. We believe that this will be a really good fit for<br />

us. We are coming off a 1-8 season in 2017; however, we return all but two players. We are looking to be much more competitive<br />

week in and week out this year.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our strength this year will be the experience we are bringing back. For much of the 2017 season we started three freshmen and six<br />

sophomores. Couple that with the returning seniors and we will be in a good place as far as varsity playing time experience. In<br />

addition to those returning we have a solid group of incoming freshmen next season as well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

As we move to D1 and 8-man football there are still quite a few question marks. We believe that our athletes have done a great job<br />

preparing this offseason to be much more competitive week in and week out in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our schedule, both district and non, is full of great football programs. BDS, Fullerton, Osceola-High Plains and East Butler are just<br />

a few of them that jump out to me. Last season we played 8-man JV games and had the opportunity to compete some of them and<br />

know how well they are put together. Our kids are really excited for the opportunity to compete in some of the best 8-man football<br />

in the state.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Cross County has eight starters back on both offense and defense. So the move to 8-man football should suit the Cougars well. Expect Hayden<br />

DeLano’s team to be more competitive in Class D1. Particularly, the Cougars’ offensive production should increase drastically after averaging 13<br />

points per game last season. Cross County has a handful of playmakers that will benefit from playing 8-man with more one-on-one opportunities.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Cougars<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Hayden DeLano<br />

Career Record: 1-8<br />

Assistant Coaches: Matt Carroll,<br />

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PALMER<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Chad Samuelson (5’8” 175 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Justin Kuta (5’8” 190 lbs) Jr. OL/LB<br />

Karsen Reimers (6’2” 165 lbs) So. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Osceola-High Plains<br />

8/31 Cross County<br />

9/7 BDS<br />

9/21 @ Heartland<br />

9/28 Fullerton<br />

10/5 Ravenna<br />

10/12 @ Shelton<br />

10/19 @ Nebraska Christian<br />

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Nathan Glause<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We look to build on our 5-4 season from last year.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a few guys returning that do a nice job at their positions.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We look to have a winning record and make the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will be small and experienced but have some speed.<br />

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KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Palmer has reached the playoffs in each of the past three years. The Tigers could extend their streak this fall if they stay healthy and<br />

navigate a challenging schedule. Palmer’s success starts at the quarterback position as Karsen Reimers replaces Spencer Wichmann,<br />

who led the team in passing and rushing in 2017. The Tigers must also be productive up front with head coach Nathan Glause’s<br />

emphasis on a strong ground game. If Glause quickly develops the youth on Palmer’s roster, the Tigers could be an under-the-radar<br />

team in <strong>2018</strong>. Last year, Palmer beat eventual Class D1 champion East Butler.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Tigers<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Nathan Glause<br />

Career Record: 73-45<br />

Assistant Coaches: Luke<br />

Thompson, Jim Sake<br />

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ALMA<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Burke Boehler (6’1” 170 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Daylan Russell (6’1” 175 lbs) Jr. TE/DB<br />

Tanner Kauk (6’0” 210 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

BURWELL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Weston Svoboda (6’ 200 lbs) Sr. C/DE<br />

8/24 Bertrand<br />

8/31 @ Northern Valley KS<br />

9/7 @ Shelton<br />

9/21 Dundy County-Stratton<br />

9/28 Hitchcock County<br />

10/5 @ Cambridge<br />

10/12 @ Southwest<br />

10/18 Arapahoe<br />

Josh Urbanovsky (6’4” 190 lbs) Sr. DB/WR<br />

Bode Jensen (6’ 170 lbs) Sr. LB/TE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

8/23 @ North Central<br />

8/31 West Holt<br />

9/7 Hemingford<br />

9/21 @ Elm Creek<br />

9/28 Amherst<br />

10/5 @ Arcadia-Loup City<br />

10/12 South Loup<br />

10/19 @ Ansley-Litchfield<br />

Brendan Johnsen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This season we look to have a bounce back year. We hope to get back into playoffs and just be more competitive in every game. A<br />

big goal for us will be to improve each and every week. We have a lot of kids returning that were big parts of last years team, so<br />

we should be able to build off of some of our experience.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength of our team is that we have a lot of guys returning that got some good experience on the field last season. We<br />

will have a solid group of seniors to lead us. We will also have some good speed that we hope to rely upon in our offensive and<br />

defensive schemes.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

My biggest expectation is that I expect us to compete every week. I expect us to build upon our record last year. I expect us to make<br />

a good push for the playoffs this fall.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

One of the biggest challenges our team will face this fall is adapting to the style of a new coach. I was an assistant for one year<br />

before taking over. The adjustment can be a challenge, but I believe that the guys are up for the challenge.<br />

Luke Gideon<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We return a lot of experience and depth on our football team. We are excited about our season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a great bunch of seniors who have played a lot of football.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We would like to make a deep run in the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We had some injuries from last years season that we need to overcome.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It’s a new day for Alma football as Brendan Johnson takes over as head coach for the Cardinals. Johnson’s first task will be fixing the defense from<br />

last season that gave up some big numbers. Alma returns five starters on both sides of the ball and will be relying on the senior class to help them<br />

make a playoff push. It could be Alma’s speed that helps them contend in more games this fall as the Cardinals look to make a run at the postseason.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The Longhorns are looking to bounce back after a 14-12 heartbreaking loss in the first round of the playoffs. As usual, Burwell is looking to make<br />

a run at the D1 Championship. It will rely on its depth and great senior class that has won a lot of big games. Some of these players already have a<br />

state title and are looking to add another.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Cardinals<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 2-6<br />

Head Coach: Brendan Johnsen<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Alex<br />

Schoneman, Chris Mahalek,<br />

Jesus Felix<br />

Team Name: Longhorns<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 6-3<br />

Head Coach: Luke Gideon<br />

Career Record: 108-54<br />

Assistant Coaches: Mike Max,<br />

Will Gideon<br />

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THAYER CENTRAL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jarod Hergott (5’8” 160 lbs) Sr. WR/LB<br />

Keith Hergott (6’2” 200 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Isaiah Keilwitz (6’1” 185 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Nebraska Christian<br />

9/7 @ Nebraska Lutheran<br />

9/14 EMF<br />

9/21 @ Weeping Water<br />

9/28 @ Southern<br />

10/5 Tri County<br />

10/12 HTRS<br />

10/19 @ BDS<br />

Jereme Jones<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

I am very excited for the <strong>2018</strong> football season. This is my third season at Thayer Central and I believe that our “carry your shield”<br />

culture has really taken root and is now the cornerstone of our program. Last season we went from 2-6 to 4-5 and made the state<br />

playoffs for the first time since 2013. This season we want to continue to build on the foundation we have built and to keep setting<br />

our goals higher. We lost three starters on each side of the ball, but bring back 15 letterwinners and 11 guys who have started at<br />

least one game, including Jackson Feulner who was honorable mention all-state as a freshman but broke his leg in the second game<br />

of last season. We have good depth and experience at every position except for QB.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our main strength this season is our experience. We have nine seniors who understand and believe in our ‘Carry Your Shield’<br />

culture and our system and who have gained a lot of experience on the field over the past three seasons. We return seven players<br />

who have been all-district and five who have been all-state.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge this season is to find and develop a QB. Max Madsen was our QB for the last three seasons and leaves with all<br />

of the school passing records. We will enter camp with a competition between junior Jackson Feulner and sophomore Logan Wiedel<br />

for the starting spot. They both have experience as a JV QB but limited experience in varsity competition at the QB spot. We also face<br />

six teams this season we have never faced before, so we will need to spend a lot of time scouting and preparing this season.<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Thayer Central is on the climb in Class D1. The Titans have built incredible momentum under third-year head coach Jereme Jones, who’s done a<br />

tremendous job of flipping the mindset at Thayer Central. Players are excited about football and now embracing new challenges. With the talent and<br />

experience on the Titans’ roster, they could take another major step forward in <strong>2018</strong>. It’s possible Thayer Central doubles its win total from a season<br />

ago while repeating as a playoff qualifier.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Titans<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Jereme Jones<br />

Career Record: 47-5<br />

Assistant Coaches: Clint Havel,<br />

Josh Lanik<br />

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HUMBOLDT-TABLE ROCK-STEINAUER<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Conner Bredemeier (6’2” 180 lbs) Sr. QB/LB<br />

Hunter Hain (6’1” 160 lbs) Sr. WR/CB<br />

Kade Shiley (5’7” 145 lbs) Sr. FB/RB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

TRI-COUNTY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Dominic Smith (5’11” 160 lbs) Jr. LB/B/Rec<br />

8/24 Pawnee City<br />

8/31 @ Meridian<br />

9/7 Weeping Water<br />

9/21 Tri County<br />

9/28 @ Palmyra<br />

10/5 BDS<br />

10/12 @ Thayer Central<br />

10/18 @ Southern<br />

Cole Siems (5’11” 150 lbs) So. QB/DB<br />

Bailey Waltke (5’10” 155 lbs) Jr. WR/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

8/24 EMF<br />

8/31 @ Lourdes Central Catholic<br />

9/7 @ Pawnee City<br />

9/14 Meridian<br />

9/21 @ HTRS<br />

9/28 BDS<br />

10/5 @ Thayer Central<br />

10/12 Southern<br />

Quentin Coatney<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This is our first year back into 8-man football in a decade. We are working to improve from the last couple of seasons and hopefully<br />

come out with some wins this year.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a great group of seniors this year. They come back with a lot of experience and leadership.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The expectations this season are to compete and finish every game this season (including JV). We have been unsuccessful with this<br />

for the last seven years.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are going to be very young and undersized. We expect some underclassmen to step up this season and possibly earn a starting<br />

position early in the season.<br />

Brett Scheiding<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be very young, but a lot of these guys were thrown in the fire early in their careers last year due to injury and need. We<br />

expect to see a lot of growth from these guys as the season goes along and we gain that needed experience. I think we have a real<br />

nice group to provide depth in a lot of areas, but that depth is certainly youthful.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a group of guys that are athletic and can play multiple positions. I think that depth, along with gained experience,<br />

provides these guys with a good looking future.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

This group will show strong improvement as the season goes on. If we can stay healthy in some key positions, we are a playoff<br />

caliber team. Our district competition will be challenging to say the least, but we should show that improvement.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will be very young, with very few upperclassmen. It’s also always tough to come off of a season where you don’t feel like you<br />

performed where you felt you should have. Some of these kids had to step in early and play, so they should be motivated to turn<br />

the tide as their careers move forward.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

HTRS has struggled in recent seasons - not just in the win-loss column, but fielding a team. The Storm has battled injuries and low participation,<br />

which has made it hard to compete in 11-man football. Dropping to Class D1 should give HTRS a chance at an improved record in <strong>2018</strong>. Watch for<br />

Conner Bredemeier to utilize his speed and playmaking ability in 8-man football.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Tri County took some lumps in 2017 that should pay off in the win column in <strong>2018</strong>. The Trojans gained valuable experience during a 1-7 season with<br />

several underclassmen serving in key roles. Cole Siems is an athletic quarterback, who will be a second-year starter as a sophomore. Developing the<br />

offensive line will be key for the Trojans, who traditionally have a strong rushing attack. Tri County must replace Cooper Smith, who rushed for more<br />

than 1,000 yards last year.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Titans<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Quentin Coatney<br />

Career Record: 8-41<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jason Cover,<br />

Gabe Gauthier<br />

FEBRUARY 3, 2019<br />

Team Name: Trojans<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-7<br />

Head Coach: Brett Scheiding<br />

Career Record: 19-26<br />

Assistant Coaches: Delva Smith,<br />

Ray Brown, Anthony Drewes<br />

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SOUTH LOUP<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Gavin Robertson (5’10” 180 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Cole Gracey (5’10” 165 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

Leighton Bubak (5’10” 160 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

SHELTON<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Sterling Wright (5’9” 180 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

8/24 Sutherland<br />

8/31 @ Hemingford<br />

9/7 @ Ainsworth<br />

9/21 Arcadia-Loup City<br />

9/28 @ Elm Creek<br />

10/5 Ansley-Litchfield<br />

10/12 @ Burwell<br />

10/18 Amherst<br />

Remington Wright (5’9” 165 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Marcus Lauber (6’4” 180 lbs) Jr. DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

8/24 @ Franklin<br />

8/31 @ Arcadia-Loup City<br />

9/7 Alma<br />

9/21 Nebraska Christian<br />

9/28 @ Ravenna<br />

10/5 @ Heartland<br />

10/12 Palmer<br />

10/18 Fullerton<br />

Andy Schwarz<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We bring back some experienced players off of last year’s runner up team. I look for us to be competitive with most teams on our<br />

schedule.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of our team will be our defense. We return five starters and a few more who had quite a bit of playing time.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I expect our team to play hard, fast, and physical. With a new schedule this year I can’t say what our record will be, but I know our<br />

kids will play with passion!<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our depth will be a big concern. I believe we will be solid to about 10-12 deep, but with football you have to have capable<br />

replacements when injuries happen. Some younger players will have to develop to help us in a few thin positions.<br />

Jeff Pohl<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

<strong>2018</strong> could be an interesting year. We have a lot of returning players, especially skill kids. I feel we have one of the best running<br />

backs in the area. The struggle will once again be up front where we will lack size and strength. Strength will be another battle this<br />

season. The move up in class will not help, as a lot of the teams we play will be bigger and used to D1 football. There will definitely<br />

be an adjustment period and we will need to work on our depth at each position.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a lot of returning skill kids and one of the better junior running backs in the state, in my opinion, in Sterling Wright. He<br />

is a game-changing back. We also have speed with his brother Remington and overall athletic ability with Marcus Lauber. We also<br />

have three or so other guys that are more than capable of moving the football down the field so I am really looking forward to<br />

devising ways to take advantage of this skill.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

As stated earlier, one of the biggest challenges we will face will be surrounding strength. We are not a big team and we have some<br />

athletes that really need to take the summer and get stronger. We have taken some positive steps forward but we still have a long<br />

way to go. Another challenge will be the move up in class. It is not a huge jump, but the participation numbers are generally higher<br />

in D1 than we experienced in D2. We need to get kids in school excited about playing football and competing so we can have good<br />

practices. Competing everyday will be a big point of emphasis this season.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

South Loup is looking to carry momentum from 2017’s D-1 runner-up team into this season. The Bobcats are looking to make their eighth straight<br />

playoffs appearance and expect to be a team that plays with plenty of passion. South Loup’s strength will be its defense, a unit that returns a lot of<br />

playing time. Expect Andy Schwarz’s team to be back in the playoffs and ready to make another run at the title game.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Shelton is headed in the right direction under head coach Jeff Pohl. The Bulldogs struggled last season and the move to D1 will not help Shelton this<br />

year. The team will rely heavily on running back Sterling Wright, who could be one of the best in the area. Culture is continuing to move in the right<br />

direction and the Bulldogs could surprise some teams this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bobcats<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 12-1<br />

Head Coach: Andy Schwarz<br />

Career Record: 96-79<br />

Assistant Coaches: Mat Jageler,<br />

Clint Lewis, Mike Weverka<br />

Team Name: Bulldogs<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 2-6<br />

Head Coach: Jeff Pohl<br />

Career Record: 2-6<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ed Lowe,<br />

Taryn Hawks, Jeff Oberg<br />

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SOUTHWEST<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Kaden Guerrero (5’6” 150 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Logan Kircher (5’11” 260 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Blake Williams (6’1” 180 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

ELMWOOD-MURDOCK<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Andy Meyer (6’0” 165 lbs) Sr. RB/DE<br />

8/31 Perkins County<br />

9/7 @ Kimball<br />

9/14 Sutherland<br />

9/21 @ Hitchcock County<br />

9/28 Cambridge<br />

10/5 @ Arapahoe<br />

10/12 Alma<br />

10/19 @ Dundy County-Stratton<br />

Tyler Marlatt (6’3” 230 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Drake Spohr (5’10” 175 lbs) Jr. FB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

8/24 Johnson-Brock<br />

8/31 @ BDS<br />

9/7 Mead<br />

9/21 @ Lourdes Central Catholic<br />

9/28 Weeping Water<br />

10/5 @ Southern<br />

10/12 Omaha Brownell Talbot<br />

10/18 @ Palmyra<br />

Nick Brost<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have a lot of experience returning on both offense and defense. However, the lack of depth on this year’s roster means that<br />

we will depend on a lot of guys being able to play multiple positions. We have a very competitive schedule, so staying healthy<br />

throughout the season will determine our final record and possible run into the playoffs.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of this year’s team should be our power run game led by experienced starters Logan Kircher, Dylan Hofman, and<br />

Brett Soderlund on the offensive line, leading the way for three-year starter Kaden Guerrero at running back. We are returning a<br />

lot of experience on the defensive side of the ball, but are still expecting some of the underclassmen to step up and fill large roles.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The goals for the team this year are to qualify for the playoffs and win a first round playoff game.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The biggest challenge the team will face this year is the lack of depth on the roster. We will depend on kids learning and playing<br />

multiple positions all season.<br />

Lance Steffen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

I believe our outlook is optimistic. We have a good group of solid talent and fill certain spots exceptionally well. We will be young,<br />

but I think our athleticism will make us dangerous.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

First, we have great size in the offensive and defensive lines. I believe our all-around team speed combined with our size in the<br />

trenches will allow us to defend most teams.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I think a reasonable expectation is to see an improved product on the field. With the transition to the 8-man game, I believe our<br />

roster is better suited to success.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have two huge challenges we need to answer this off-season. First, we need to make the transition to the 8-man game and get<br />

accustomed to the speed. Second, we need to develop and decide on a quarterback that fits our scheme and is ready to lead us to<br />

success.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Southwest used a run-heavy offense to reach the playoffs in 2017 and Roughrider fans can expect a similar approach this fall. Nick Brost’s blueprint<br />

should be even more effective in the upcoming season with a veteran offensive line and talented running back. Kaden Guerrero averaged nearly seven<br />

yards per carry as a junior and will be Southwest’s go-to option in <strong>2018</strong>. While reaching the playoffs will be among the goals for the Roughriders,<br />

it would be nice for Southwest to notch a springboard win during the regular season. They’ll have several opportunities with Perkins County,<br />

Cambridge, and Dundy County-Stratton on the schedule.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Over the past three seasons, Elmwood-Murdock owns an 8-3 record in October. The Knights have finished strong, but have been doomed by slow<br />

starts in each season. Elmwood-Murdock is looking for better consistency in <strong>2018</strong> and a few wins early on the schedule could catapult Lance Steffen’s<br />

team. The Knights will face new opponents this fall as they move to 8-man football. Keep an eye on Elmwood-Murdock’s Week 2 match-up against<br />

BDS. That game could serve as a barometer on how E-M will fare in Class D1.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Roughriders<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Nick Brost<br />

Career Record: 17-34<br />

Assistant Coaches: Dennis<br />

Hengen, Christian Arterburn<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Knights<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Lance Steffen<br />

Career Record: 8-3<br />

Assistant Coaches: Alan Barnes,<br />

Fred Spale, Jason Florell<br />

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AINSWORTH<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Sloan Raymond (5’11” 165 lbs) Jr. FB/LB<br />

Oren Pozehl (5’10” 150 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Jon Barrow (6’1” 205 lbs) Sr. OL/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

BOYD COUNTY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Garrett Boettcher (6’ 200 lbs) Sr. FB/LB<br />

8/24 @ Sandhills/Thedford<br />

8/31 @ Neligh-Oakdale<br />

9/7 South Loup<br />

9/20 @ West Holt<br />

9/28 Creighton<br />

10/5 @ Niobrara/Verdigre<br />

10/12 Boyd County<br />

10/18 North Central<br />

Lane Carson (6’ 220 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Ethan Reed (6’ 170 lbs) Sr. E/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

8/24 St. Mary’s<br />

8/31 Stuart<br />

9/7 @ Madison<br />

9/21 @ North Central<br />

9/28 Niobrara/Verdigre<br />

10/5 @ West Holt<br />

10/12 @ Ainsworth<br />

10/18 Creighton<br />

Jake Nelson<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We become eligible for the playoffs in 8-man football this year after spending two seasons ineligible due to opting down. The<br />

whole team is really looking forward to playing with the possibility of extending our season and not just knowing we would be<br />

done after the eighth game no matter what our record was.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Even though we are young, we are very experienced. Our lone returning senior and most of our juniors have started or at least<br />

gotten extensive playing time on both sides of the ball during the last two seasons.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are hoping to end up 4-4 or better this year. Our goal, like anyone else that is eligible, is to make it to the playoffs. This would<br />

be a big accomplishment for us due to the fact that 1992 is the last time our program has advanced to the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge this year will be replacing our three top offensive weapons from last year. Our quarterback, running back,<br />

and top receiver all graduated and will be replaced with underclassmen.<br />

Bradley Wright<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

There will be a complete overhaul of new offenses and defenses. We will look for a large group of seniors to take leadership and<br />

pull everyone in the right direction.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will lean on a large group of seniors to lead us. We don’t have much for size but we’ll make up for it in overall team speed and<br />

athleticism.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Realistically I feel like we can compete in all of the games on our schedule. If we can pick up on the offense and defense right away<br />

and play confidently, I’ll see us becoming a very improved team and playing in the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

New coach, new offense, new defense, and entirely new system. It will be quite the adjustment for this team. With these new<br />

schemes, I feel like we can make big strides in improving and setting our team up for success.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

This season brings a lot of buzz for Ainsworth as the team is finally eligible to make the playoffs after the Bulldogs moved to 8-man ball. The ‘Dogs<br />

lost last year’s backfield but are looking to a strong junior class for a .500 or better record. Ainsworth hasn’t made the playoffs since 1992 and has only<br />

made the postseason two times in school history. Ainsworth is on the road the first two weeks of the season but if it can be in position for the playoffs<br />

late in the year, the Bulldogs will have home-field advantage the final two games.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It’s a new era for Boyd County as Bradley Wright takes over as head coach. The Spartans had a sour end to the 2017 season losing its last seven games,<br />

meaning a new coach and a new culture. Wright will be leaning on a big group of seniors to help push the program in the right direction. The key will<br />

be how quickly the players can get down the new schemes. If it happens quickly, expect to see the Spartans back in the playoffs.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bulldogs<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 3-5<br />

Head Coach: Jake Nelson<br />

Career Record: 6-36<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jessi Owen,<br />

Roudy Clapper, Samuel<br />

Aldridge, Stephen Crile<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Spartans<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Bradley Wright<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jeff Hart<br />

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HEARTLAND<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jackson Stebbing (5’10” 160 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Peyton Ott (6’3” 225 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Morgan Maltsberger (5’10” 220 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Giltner<br />

8/31 @ Weeping Water<br />

9/14 Nebraska Lutheran<br />

9/21 Palmer<br />

9/28 @ Nebraska Christian<br />

10/5 Shelton<br />

10/12 @ Fullerton<br />

10/19 @ Ravenna<br />

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Ben Lindsay<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

With the loss of five starters from last year’s team, we will have a lot of younger players that will have to step up. We have a lot of<br />

skilled and hard-working athletes that will make contributions on offense, defense, and special teams.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength of our team is athleticism. We have a lot of skilled athletes that have football intelligence to play in multiple<br />

different positions<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With the addition of new starters, new offensive and defensive schemes, and a tough schedule, the <strong>2018</strong> season looks to be a<br />

challenging and exciting year for the Heartland Huskies.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The biggest challenge that we will face is inexperience. We will have a lot of players that have experience playing on special teams<br />

from last year, and they will be asked to step up to play both offense and defense.<br />

OUR TEAM COVERING YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Of all the teams across the 10/11 area, Heartland may be the most difficult to analyze for the upcoming season. The Huskies are making several<br />

schematic changes, plus they’ll have new personnel. Heartland graduated all-district performers Lane Huebert and Connor Boehr, along with<br />

multiple key linemen. Overall, the Huskies must replace 92% of its offensive production from <strong>2018</strong>. Fans should take comfort in this—Ben Lindsay<br />

consistently produces. The Heartland head coach has guided the Huskies to three straight playoff appearances and a fourth could be in store this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Huskies<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 7-2<br />

Head Coach: Ben Lindsay<br />

Career Record: 21-8<br />

Assistant Coaches: Greg<br />

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NEBRASKA LUTHERAN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Dillon Malchow (5’6” 150 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Sam Otte (5’10” 170 lbs) Jr. OL/LB<br />

Brian Seaberg (6’0” 160 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 0<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

ELM CREEK<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Keaton Trampe (6’0” 210 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

8/24 Palmyra<br />

8/31 @ Nebraska Christian<br />

9/7 Thayer Central<br />

9/14 @ Heartland<br />

9/21 @ East Butler<br />

10/5 Cross County<br />

10/12 @ EMF<br />

10/19 Osceola-High Plains<br />

Chase Swartwood (6’0” 205 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Karsten McCarter (5’10” 155 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 1<br />

8/24 Overton<br />

8/31 @ Arapahoe<br />

9/7 @ Morrill<br />

9/21 Burwell<br />

9/28 South Loup<br />

10/5 @ Amherst<br />

10/12 Ansley-Litchfield<br />

10/19 @ Arcadia-Loup City<br />

Benjy Wells<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will have a much less experienced team this fall after having a very experienced team last season. We hope to be better at the<br />

end of the season than at the beginning, as that will be a very good indicator for how our season went.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have some good size and strength and return some skill players with good potential. Our returners have seen a bit of what<br />

it takes to win from last year’s seniors.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will find it very important to have a positive, hard-working attitude and a drive to improve every day. If we can demonstrate<br />

those qualities, we will get better throughout the season and can be a solid team by October.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our contributors from last year’s varsity team must take on some bigger roles and grow into leaders. We will also need our<br />

inexperienced varsity players to gain positive experience and grow into significant roles on the field this fall.<br />

Jayce Dueland<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are going to be young this year with a good mixture of seniors, juniors, and sophomores competing for starting spots. We will<br />

have a lot of good athletes that will help us on defense and give us plenty of opportunities on offense.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have a good group of athletes on offense to get the ball too. Being athletic on defense will help us with our team speed.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will have a tough district which will help prepare us for the playoffs. I could see us anywhere from 1st to 4th in our district. I<br />

think our district is wide open for the taking.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We only return one starter on defense this year. Spending time getting our defense ready for the season will be key for our team<br />

this summer. Being young will also be a challenge for us. We have a good amount of athletic kids that can play but getting them<br />

ready for varsity action will be key for us this summer as well.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Expect to see two different teams from Nebraska Lutheran in <strong>2018</strong> - the one in August and a different one in October. The Knights are coming off of a<br />

very successful 2017 campaign but lost a lot of contributors. Now, it will be some new faces leading Nebraska Lutheran. The goal is to get better every<br />

game for the Knights and by the end of the season, Nebraska Lutheran could be making the playoffs for the fifth time in school history.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Athletes won’t be a problem in <strong>2018</strong> for Elm Creek as the Buffaloes have speed on offense and defense. Jayce Dueland’s squad was highly successful<br />

in 2017 but couldn’t get past South Loup late in the regular season and then again in the playoffs.The defense is extremely young but should be<br />

seasoned by the bye week. It’s going to be a battle to win the district but the Buffaloes have a shot to win the crown and make a return to the playoffs.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Knights<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Benjy Wells<br />

Career Record: 28-41<br />

Assistant Coaches: PJ Bunyard<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

Team Name: Buffaloes<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 7-3<br />

Head Coach: Jayce Dueland<br />

Career Record: 49-15<br />

Assistant Coaches: Zac Crowley,<br />

Brandt Rungy<br />

SUNDAYS ON<br />

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EXETER-MILLIGAN-FRIEND<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Edwen Baptista (5’10” 180 lbs) Sr. B<br />

Spencer Pribyl (6’4” 180 lbs) Sr. B<br />

Colton Bossaller (5’10” 180 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Tri County<br />

8/31 Palmyra<br />

9/7 Lourdes Central Catholic<br />

9/14 @ Thayer Central<br />

9/28 Osceola-High Plains<br />

10/5 @ East Butler<br />

10/12 Nebraska Lutheran<br />

10/19 @ Cross County<br />

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YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

Dean Filipi<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

It will be interesting as Execter-Milligan and Friend will join to play football this season. It might take a little while for us to figure<br />

things out. With our senior leadership, we hope to be competitive this year.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our team this year will rely on our seniors’ leadership and experience. We hope to have a balanced attack on offense and play<br />

solid defense.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

To be competitive in every game.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With the joining of our two programs, getting everyone on the same page will be our first challenge. The key to a successful season<br />

will be the development of depth at all positions.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Before merging, Exeter-Milligan and Friend were two of the top 8-man football teams across the area. The schools have combined for 29 playoff<br />

appearances, and each has made a deep postseason run in recent seasons. Together, EMF should be very successful as a co-op. However, fans may<br />

need to be patient in the early stages of a combined program. Edwen Baptista will lead the way for the Bobcats after rushing for more than 2,000<br />

yards in his career.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bobcats<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: N/A<br />

Head Coach: Dean Filipi<br />

Career Record: N/A<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jim Pfeiffer,<br />

Jackson Krejci, Clayton Moore,<br />

Kory Kahlandt, Jake Clouse<br />

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WEST HOLT<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Kooper Jelinek (6’3’’ 185 lbs) Sr. TE/MLB<br />

Jordan Tasler (5’9’’ 155 lbs) Sr. RB/CB<br />

Joe Seger (5’10’’ 205 lbs) Jr. C/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 2<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

AMHERST<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Sam Florell (5’9’’ 160 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

8/31 @ Burwell<br />

9/7 Neligh-Oakdale<br />

9/13 @ Clearwater-Orchard<br />

9/20 Ainsworth<br />

9/28 @ North Central<br />

10/5 Boyd County<br />

10/12 Creighton<br />

10/19 @ Niobrara/Verdigre<br />

Jarred Ivey (5’10’’ 185 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Deric John (6’0’’ 185 lbs) Sr. DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

8/24 Ravenna<br />

8/31 @ Bertrand<br />

9/7 @ Arapahoe<br />

9/21 Ansley-Litchfield<br />

9/28 @ Burwell<br />

10/5 Elm Creek<br />

10/12 Arcadia-Loup City<br />

10/18 @ South Loup<br />

Steve Neptune<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are very young and replacing ten seniors won’t be easy. Skill positions will be ok, but the offensive and defensive lines need to<br />

have a good summer.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Team speed and quickness are our strengths. Also, our third year in 8-man should help us feel more comfortable.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I say right now, a .500 season. I believe we are good enough to win some games and get into the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

One big challenge will be replacing a lot of seniors, which were 90% of our offense.<br />

Ron Evans<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

If we can avoid injuries and develop depth we should be competitive in most of our games this season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Most of the athletes have a good deal of experience.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We would like to end up around .500 this season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have a difficult schedule and health concerns.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It’s time to rebuild for West Holt after a magical 2017 season. The Huskies are replacing a lot of talent from the 8-2 team that was a touchdown away<br />

from reaching the semifinals. West Holt has some speed on offense and that could help in 8-man football with a lot of open field. Steve Neptune’s<br />

team is looking to get better by the week and if it comes along a little more each time it steps on the field, West Holt could be back in the playoffs.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

After making the playoffs five years in a row, Amherst took a dip in 2017 with a 1-7 record. Longtime head coach Ron Evans does return some talent<br />

and experience, and with that the Broncos could be back to or even above .500. Amherst opens up the <strong>2018</strong> campaign against Ravenna, which was its<br />

only win last year. If the Broncos could pick up that win and begin the season with momentum, the team might return to its winning ways.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Huskies<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Steve Neptune<br />

Career Record: 118-80<br />

Assistant Coaches: Chris<br />

Nemetz, Andy Osborne,<br />

Bubba Kramer<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Broncos<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-7<br />

Head Coach: Ron Evans<br />

Career Record: 143-99<br />

Assistant Coaches: Eric Rippen,<br />

Joe Radke, Colin Pfeiffer,<br />

Carson Hemmann<br />

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EAST BUTLER<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jaden Rhynalds (5’10’’ 135 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Corden Novotny (6’0’’ 250 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Nolan Makovicka (6’1’’ 175 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

ARAPAHOE<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Gentry Anderson (6’ 195 lbs) Sr. QB/S<br />

8/24 GACC<br />

8/31 @ Wisner-Pilger<br />

9/7 Nebraska Christian<br />

9/21 Nebraska Lutheran<br />

9/28 @ Cross County<br />

10/5 EMF<br />

10/12 @ Osceola-High Plains<br />

10/18 @ Omaha Brownell Talbot<br />

Cooper Schutz (6’3” 260 lbs) Jr. C/NT<br />

Yordi Gutierrez (5’11” 155 lbs) Sr. E/DB<br />

Carson Schroeder (5’10” 155 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

8/24 @ Elwood<br />

8/31 Elm Creek<br />

9/7 Amherst<br />

9/21 @ Cambridge<br />

9/27 @ Dundy County-Stratton<br />

10/5 Southwest<br />

10/12 Hitchcock County<br />

10/18 @ Alma<br />

Shawn Biltoft<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

East Butler is looking forward to the upcoming season. The schedule will provide new challenges as our team works to fill many<br />

positions due to graduation. The team will need to develop throughout the summer in order to reach our goals. We have a solid<br />

group of players that will lead our team. East Butler will focus on playing physical football in order to be successful in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of our team will be the ability to work together each week to improve. We understand what it takes to be successful,<br />

but must continue to focus on team goals. The team must play fast and physical football to compete each week.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our team expectations center upon winning our individual match-ups during competition. East Butler will look to improve each<br />

week in preparation for playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

A challenge our team faces is replacing a large senior group. Younger players will be filling roles at a variety of positions. Our team<br />

is ready to meet the challenges of the <strong>2018</strong> season.<br />

Dustin Kronhofman<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are moving up to D1 this cycle and will be playing a tougher schedule than last year. We feel that we can compete with<br />

everyone on our schedule if we stay healthy. We lost a big senior class to graduation and will lose the depth we built the last couple<br />

of years. The team feels that we should have another season with more wins than losses.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have three of the top skilled athletes in the state in Anderson, Schroeder, and Gutierrez. Most teams are going to key in on<br />

Gentry and rightfully so, but this will give Yordi and Carson opportunities to make plays. Being able to utilize our athleticism all<br />

over the field will be a key to success for our team and season.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have to replace both of our starting LBs from last year which accounted for 60% of our tackles. We need a couple guys to gain<br />

strength and step up to fill those holes left behind by last year’s seniors. Developing some depth on both sides of the line will be<br />

a necessity to keep guys fresh to be competitive all game and throughout the season. With only three boys in our junior class we<br />

are going to have to rely on a few of our sophomores to step up and play some major minutes.<br />

When East Butler hoisted the Class D1 championship trophy last fall, it also said goodbye to its talented senior class. Many of the players who served<br />

in key roles for the state finals have graduated, leaving Shawn Biltoft with an unproven roster in <strong>2018</strong>. Biltoft must replace 82% of his offensive<br />

production from last year’s title team. The Tigers’ head coach will lean on Jaden Rhynalds, who moves into the starting quarterback role. Rhynalds<br />

served in a variety of offensive roles last year and also recorded 52 tackels. Defensively, East Butler may take a step backwards after graduating five<br />

starters on that side of the ball.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Tigers<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 11-2<br />

Head Coach: Shawn Biltoft<br />

Career Record: 97-54<br />

Assistant Coaches: Doug<br />

Glasshoff, Tyler Wright<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Arapahoe is looking to keep the playoff streak alive in <strong>2018</strong> as the Warriors have made the postseason every year since 2002 - 16 years! The team<br />

moves up to D1 but returns enough talent that the jump should be fairly smooth. Arapahoe has speed and athleticism on offense so expect the<br />

Warriors to put up points as it did in 2017. The defense takes a hit due to graduation and the development in the trenches will take time. However,<br />

Dustin Kronhofman’s team should be able to outscore most teams which should lead to yet another playoff berth.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Warriors<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 7-2<br />

Head Coach: Dustin Kronhofman<br />

Career Record: 13-5<br />

Assistant Coaches: John Strand,<br />

Preston Blackmore<br />

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RAVENNA<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Alex Chapa (5’5” 190 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Jake Jarzynka (5’10” 160 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Drew Bolling (5’9” 160 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Amherst<br />

8/31 Cambridge<br />

9/7 @ Osceola-High Plains<br />

9/21 @ Fullerton<br />

9/28 Shelton<br />

10/5 @ Palmer<br />

10/12 Nebraska Christian<br />

10/19 Heartland<br />

Dan Bolling<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have tons of experience coming back. Our offensive and defensive schemes are in place and plan on being very competitive.<br />

We have to continue working on both the physical and mental part of the game.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our offensive skill players are experienced and talented. We should be hard to stop because we have athletic kids at all spots.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We should be competitive in all our games. Our past experiences should help us this year.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Believing that we can compete with anybody and trusting our teammates.<br />

OUR TEAM COVERING YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

DAN COREY<br />

From 2004-2012, not only did Ravenna make the playoffs every year, it made multiple runs deep into the postseason. The Bluejays,<br />

however, haven’t been back to the playoffs since 2012 and went 1-7 in 2017. The challenge for the coaching staff is getting the team<br />

to believe it can get the program back on track. Having seven starters on offense and defense coming back will help the ‘Jays as<br />

Ravenna looks to use its athleticism to win games.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Bluejays<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-7<br />

Head Coach: Dan Bolling<br />

Career Record: N/A<br />

Assistant Coaches: Noah<br />

Maulsby, Ryan Klein, James<br />

Habe, Ryen Miller<br />

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NEBRASKA CHRISTIAN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jake Twogood (5’10” 175 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Toby Watson (5’11” 180 lbs) Sr. FB/LB<br />

Noah Boersen (5’11” 160 lbs) Sr. E<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

FULLERTON<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

TJ Dubas (5’11” 180 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

8/24 @ Thayer Central<br />

8/31 Nebraska Lutheran<br />

9/7 @ East Butler<br />

9/21 @ Shelton<br />

9/28 Heartland<br />

10/5 Fullerton<br />

10/12 @ Ravenna<br />

10/19 Palmer<br />

James Lesiak (6’ 170 lbs) Sr. LB<br />

CJ Pickrel (5’10” 220 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

8/24 Arcadia-Loup City<br />

8/31 Osceola-High Plains<br />

9/14 @ Cross County<br />

9/21 Ravenna<br />

9/28 @ Palmer<br />

10/5 @ Nebraska Christian<br />

10/12 Heartland<br />

10/18 @ Shelton<br />

Carl Ostrand<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We hope to improve in all phases of the game from last season. We have gained valuable experience for our younger players, but<br />

need to solidify execution especially offensively.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The character and how well our young men respond to instruction. We will be a hard-working team who hopefully is thankful for<br />

successes and is resilient in difficulty.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We hope to improve each week and establish a physical style of play. We will face tough competition each week and need to<br />

execute well each play.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Experience at some offensive skill positions is a challenge we hope to meet, as well as establishing depth at key positions.<br />

Ryan Haughton<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Good group of veteran players that have a lot of experience in the playoffs and coming off of a district championship. Need to stay<br />

healthy and the bump up to D1 will be a challenging one. Tough schedule will produce challenges each night.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Should have good depth with a senior heavy team.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With the move up to D1, wins will be tougher to come by. We will be missing a few kids off of last year’s team due to injuries.<br />

Expectations are always high at Fullerton and we are always looking to win championships.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Tough schedule each week. No holes in the schedule.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It’s been a five-year playoff drought of Nebraska Christian and Eagles’ players are hoping it doesn’t become six. Running back Jake<br />

Twogood got some good carries in 2017 and could get way more touches this fall. The Eagles will have to replace their quarterback<br />

and might have to rely on their stable of running backs. The schedule again will have some tough opponents, but if Nebraska<br />

Christian can get off to a good start the team will believe the playoffs are possible.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

As head coach Ryan Haughton put it, championships are always the expectation at Fullerton. The Warriors make the jump up to D-1<br />

and with it the schedule becomes more challenging. However, a district championship and playoff berth are still very much in range<br />

for Fullerton. It’s a senior class that has already won a district title and has its eyes set on making the playoffs in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 2-6<br />

Head Coach: Carl Ostrand<br />

Career Record: 52-61<br />

Assistant Coaches: Andy Falk,<br />

Dave Gee, Levi Landrigan<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Warriors<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 8-2<br />

Head Coach: Ryan Haughton<br />

Career Record: 75-44<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jeremy<br />

Wetovick,Eric Frenzen<br />

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SOUTHERN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Drake Adams (6’3” 170 lbs) Sr. QB/LB<br />

Braden Klover (6’2” 210 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Josh Lundstedt (6’2” 250 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Diller-Odell<br />

8/31 Pawnee City<br />

9/14 @ Palmyra<br />

9/21 @ BDS<br />

9/28 Thayer Central<br />

10/5 Elmwood-Murdock<br />

10/12 @ Tri County<br />

10/18 HTRS<br />

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What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The players and coaches at Southern are excited about the transition to 8-man football. The past two seasons have been a challenge<br />

and a fresh start is welcome. We feel that we will be far more competitive and look forward to the opportunities ahead of us.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our greatest strength is returning experience. We have seven players on both offense and defense who have starting experience. The<br />

players with returning experience have been challenged by some talented C1 opponents the last two years that will pay off this<br />

season.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Predicting a record is difficult to do since we have not faced any of our opponents in the last two seasons. We believe that with our<br />

talent our final record will be significantly better than in 2017.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Adapting to the 8-man game will be our biggest challenge. The schemes and pace of the 8-man game will be new to our team. We<br />

hope the learning curve will not be too steep.<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Southern isn’t just dropping to 8-man football, it is going down two classes. The Raiders are transitioning from C1 to D1, which should be a better<br />

fit for the program. Southern should have a noticeable improvement in the win column this fall after recording only two victories over the past two<br />

years. An experienced and tight-knit senior class will aid in the Raiders’ move to 8-man football. Quarterback Drake Adams hopes to finish his career<br />

on a high note after nearly passing for 1,000 yards as a junior.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Raiders<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 1-8<br />

Head Coach: Kane Hookstra<br />

Career Record: 56-90<br />

Assistant Coaches: Shane<br />

Saathoff, Dusty Adams<br />

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NORTH CENTRAL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jakob Heerten (6’0” 170 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Colton Munger (6’0” 185 lbs) Sr. DE<br />

Marcus Reynolds (6’2” 190 lbs) Sr. C/DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

ANSLEY-LITCHFIELD<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Justin Bailey (6’3” 165 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

8/23 Burwell<br />

8/31 @ Ansley-Litchfield<br />

9/7 @ Arcadia-Loup City<br />

9/21 Boyd County<br />

9/28 West Holt<br />

10/5 @ Creighton<br />

10/12 Niobrara/Verdigre<br />

10/18 @ Ainsworth<br />

Chris Paitz (6’ 160 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

Ethan Samuelson (6’4” 180 lbs) Sr. WR/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

8/24 @ Pleasanton<br />

8/31 North Central<br />

9/14 Cambridge<br />

9/21 @ Amherst<br />

9/28 Arcadia-Loup City<br />

10/5 @ South Loup<br />

10/12 @ Elm Creek<br />

10/19 Burwell<br />

Ryan Richey<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our team returns a lot of experience from last season in which every team we lost to was undefeated at the time of our<br />

matchup. We will need to get stronger this offs-eason, but with the talent that we have our goals are to make a strong playoff run<br />

this season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We are very athletic and have a very good quarterback who can distribute the ball to several different guys. We can play very fast<br />

and our experience will allow us to make adjustments on the fly and put teams on their heels.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With the jump from D2 to D1, the first part of our schedule will be tough. If we can stay healthy and improve throughout the<br />

season, we expect to make a deep playoff run with a chance to make it to Lincoln in November.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will really need to get stronger as we lack some depth up front. That being said, we will need to continue to improve getting<br />

the ball in space and then finish plays when all is said and done.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Look out for North Central in <strong>2018</strong>. The Knights have a roster loaded with experience and skill. Plus, Ryan Richey is a very creative<br />

play-caller. Expect plenty of variety from North Central’s offense, which averaged nearly 40 points per game last year. Quarterback Jake<br />

Heerten is coming off an outstanding sophomore season where he had 1,730 passing yards. If Heerten continues to improve, he could<br />

challenge for all-state accolades this fall.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Kurt Kulhanek<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

In my opinion we have one of the toughest schedules in the state, but we will work hard and compete to the best of our ability.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our offense will be explosive with the athletes we have.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I think if we work hard and avoid injury we will be a surprising team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Moving up to class D1 is a big deal, it will be tough.<br />

Ansley/Litchfield is not too far removed from the special 2016 season where the Spartans<br />

made a nice playoff run. The team has a tough schedule and will have to adjust to D1, but<br />

if A/L can avoid injury the Spartans should be able to compete every week. The squad<br />

returns a good number of starters from last year’s team that went 2-6. .500 is certainly in<br />

reach this fall for this team and the summer’s hard work should pay off.<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

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Team Name: Knights<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 7-3<br />

Head Coach: Ryan Richey<br />

Career Record: 10-9<br />

Assistant Coaches: Alex<br />

McCleary<br />

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Team Name: Spartans<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 2-6<br />

Head Coach: Kurt Kulhanek<br />

Career Record: 9-11<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ryan Mosier,<br />

Cannon Blauvelt<br />

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NELIGH-OAKDALE<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Austin Rice (6’2” 195 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Andrew Herley (5’9” 145 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Hunter Charf (6’ 175 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

Ron Beacom<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Clearwater-Orchard<br />

8/31 Ainsworth<br />

9/7 @ West Holt<br />

9/20 Laurel-Concord-Coleridge<br />

9/28 @ Howells-Dodge<br />

10/5 Madison<br />

10/12 @ Elkhorn Valley<br />

10/18 Lutheran High Northeast<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We look to improve upon a very good second half of last season. With several returning players, we should be pretty competitive.<br />

However, our schedule will be more difficult this year as well.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our main strength will be the experience and depth we have returning. Our skill positions are pretty solid as well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I think it is reasonable for us to believe we should be in every game we play. If we can develop a formidable defense and limit our<br />

mistakes, we could be pretty good.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We don’t have a lot of big kids. We have good overall average size, but not a lot of big kids. Our lines will be a little inexperienced<br />

but should develop into a pretty good group.<br />

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YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The playoffs have become a regular occurance for Neligh-Oakdale under head coach Rob Beacom. The Warriors made it in 2017, making it the fourth<br />

trip in five seasons. N-O won its final three regular season games and the program is looking to carry that momentum into <strong>2018</strong>. The skill positions<br />

will be good with Andrew Herley getting plenty of touches. This team will have to rely on its speed and develop the lines but it’s looking like the<br />

Warriors could make a return playing extra games at the end of the season.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Warriors<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: Ron Beacom<br />

Career Record: 127-56<br />

Assistant Coaches: Matt Parr,<br />

Terry Viterna<br />

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BRUNING-DAVENPORT-SHICKLEY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

John Christensen (6’ 200 lbs) Sr. QB/LB<br />

Kameron Dickson (6’1” 170 lbs) Sr. DE<br />

Eric Schroeder (6’1” 175 lbs) Jr. TE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 1<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

PERKINS COUNTY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Tanner Burge (6’1” 170 lbs) Sr. G/LB<br />

8/31 Elmwood-Murdock<br />

9/7 @ Palmer<br />

9/14 @ Lourdes Central Catholic<br />

9/21 Southern<br />

9/28 @ Tri County<br />

10/5 @ HTRS<br />

10/12 Cross County<br />

10/19 Thayer Central<br />

Alex Patrick (6’ 170 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Triston Hite (5’8” 140 lbs) Fr. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 2<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

8/24 Dundy County-Stratton<br />

8/31 @ Southwest<br />

9/7 Hitchcock County<br />

9/21 Morrill<br />

9/28 @ Kimball<br />

10/5 @ Sutherland<br />

10/12 Bayard<br />

10/19 @ Hemingford<br />

Mark Rotter & Chris Ardissono<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We just moved up from Class D2 and are playing four schools coming down from Class C2. Graduation wiped us out. We have a<br />

ton of work to do if the machine is going to reload.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The strength of our program might be how we operate and how we run our program. Our kids lift really hard, work really hard,<br />

and sooner or later they know its their turn to do things.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We could be anywhere from 4-4 to 13-0. Our kids are working very hard to keep BDS’ winning tradition going. We just don’t know;<br />

we’re so inexperienced. We should be better at the end of the year than the beginning of the year. Our kids don’t want to be the<br />

bunch to go 4-4.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have quite a few guys who have had been in-and-out during a season. We have to stay healthy. We hope to avoid the ”October<br />

wall.” Playing beyond eight games is something some of our guys haven’t done before. We must recognize how long the season<br />

really is.<br />

Jonathan Hunt<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The Perkins Co. football team is looking at a year full of growth and team development. A new coach and a new system is a lot to<br />

take in. We plan on developing a team identity and going out and competing on every down.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We believe our main strength is the type of athletes we have. The kids are hard workers and are open to doing what it takes to make<br />

the team successful.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Right now our expectations are to go out and be the most competitive team on the field every down. Mentally and physically we<br />

are looking to be the most fit and sound team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Returning only a few starters is always a challenge, mix that with a new system and that becomes even more difficult. It will also<br />

be a challenge to find a replacement quarterback. after losing a 4-year starter.<br />

Mark Rotter says this season could be like BDS’ 2016 campaign. If that holds true, Eagles’ fans are in for a treat this fall. BDS reached the state<br />

semifinals two years ago while facing several unknowns during fall camp. Rotter says the circumstances are similar as the <strong>2018</strong> season approaches.<br />

BDS has a very inexperienced roster, so expect the Eagles to lean heavily on John Christensen throughout the season. Christensen has the ability to<br />

single-handedly carry BDS, at least early in the season until his teammates settle into their new roles. BDS is seeking its fourth finals appearances<br />

over the past five years. That goal may be too lofty, though expect to see the Eagles in the Class D2 playoffs again.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The Jonathan Hunt era begins at Perkins County in <strong>2018</strong> and patience will be key on Friday nights this fall. Yes, the Plainsmen did make it to the<br />

quarterfinals last season but that team also lost a lot of players to graduation. PC does return talent, but with learning new schemes and a coaching<br />

style you might see a much better team in late October than the one kicking off the season.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 13-0<br />

Head Coach: Mark Rotter,<br />

Chris Ardissono<br />

Career Record: 208-60<br />

Assistant Coaches: Scott Shipley,<br />

Ryne Philippi<br />

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Team Name: Plainsmen<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 8-3<br />

Head Coach: Jonathan Hunt<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ryan Boldt,<br />

Shayne Hite<br />

126 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 127


OSCEOLA-HIGH PLAINS<br />

CLARKS LOCKER & MEAT PROCESSING<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Keaton Van Housen (6’ 165 lbs) Jr. LB/RB<br />

Brody Ienn (5’10” 165 lbs) Sr. LB/E<br />

Dylan Soule (5’10” 175 lbs) Jr. LB/RB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 10<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 9<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Palmer<br />

8/31 @ Fullerton<br />

9/7 Ravenna<br />

9/14 @ Elkhorn Valley<br />

9/21 Cross County<br />

9/28 @ EMF<br />

10/12 East Butler<br />

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KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

TJ Nielsen & Greg Wood<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are very excited about the new co-op of Osceola and High Plains. The two teams will merge nicely together and give us a<br />

lot of options moving forward. Like any year, it will be important for us to unify as a team and establish strong leadership. We<br />

should have strong depth and be able to field a competitive lineup. Overall, we will be a young team and we will need to mature<br />

quickly.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Large roster and depth at the skill positions.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are excited about the upcoming season and believe it can be a successful one. With our new co-op and young players it could<br />

take some time, but we should be a very competitive team by the end of the season and at the start of the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Overall, we will be a young team and we will need to mature quickly.<br />

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Osceola and High Plains are joining forces in <strong>2018</strong>. The merger is making the program an instant contender in Class D2. Both schools return a<br />

handful of key players and the Stormdogs’ collection of talent will be impressive. Keaten Van Housen rushed for 877 yards as a sophomore with 15<br />

touchdowns. With a better and deeper offensive line, Van Housen should challenge to reach the 1,000-yard mark this fall. The big tasks for Osceola-<br />

High Plains will be building team chemistry and deciding on offensive and defensive schemes. It will be fun watching TJ Nielsen and Greg Wood,<br />

who are both very knowledgable coaches, work alongside one another in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Stormdogs<br />

Class: D1<br />

2017 Record: 4-5 Osceola & 2-6<br />

High Plains<br />

Head Coach: TJ Nielsen, Greg<br />

Wood<br />

Career Record: Nielsen 35-21 &<br />

Wood 48-47<br />

Assistant Coaches: Andy Roberts,<br />

Dan Theis, Tanner Kuhn,<br />

Martin Phillips<br />

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ARCADIA-LOUP CITY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Tucker Quinn (6’ 190 lbs) Sr. TE/MLB<br />

Cannon Osentowski (5’10” 165 lbs) Sr. OLB<br />

Jakob Jerabek (6’6” 290 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Fullerton<br />

8/31 Shelton<br />

9/7 North Central<br />

9/21 @ South Loup<br />

9/28 @ Ansley-Litchfield<br />

10/5 Burwell<br />

10/12 @ Amherst<br />

10/19 Elm Creek<br />

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705 O St • Loup City, Nebraska<br />

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OUR TEAM COVERING<br />

YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

Mike Scott<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Moving from 11-man to 8-man will be a little bit different. It’ll be a transition for the kids. We expect to be good. We went to camps<br />

and saw a few bright spots.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Defensive experience is our biggest strength. We have a few individuals that stand out, specifically Tucker Quinn who is<br />

phenomenal. We have a lot of young kids that are really stepping up. It’s cool as a coach watching those young kids surpise you.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We’re setting our goals to come out of the regular season 6-2. Anything less than that, we’re going to be disappointed.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Injuries are always an issue. They got us last year. If we stay healthy, I think we’ll be one of the best in the state. Injuries scare the<br />

crap out of me. Our biggest challenge is getting everyone together and on the same page to be successful.<br />

SUNDAYS ON<br />

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KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Arcadia-Loup City had a seven-win improvement from 2016 to 2017 and fans shouldn’t expect any regression this fall. The Rebels established<br />

themselves as a contender during last year’s run to the state semifinals. Sure, several key players have graduated but the cupboard is far from bare<br />

for Mike Scott. ALC Tucker Quinn, who had 130 tackles last season, anchors a stout defensive unit. The Rebels shut out four opponents in 2017 and<br />

the unit may be even better this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Rebels<br />

Class D1<br />

2017 Record: 10-1<br />

Head Coach: Mike Scott<br />

Career Record: 70-45<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jason Phelps,<br />

Trevor Wright<br />

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OVERTON<br />

STUART<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Braden Kizer (6’2” 145 lbs) Sr. QB/S<br />

Schuyler Brown (6’ 220 lbs) Sr. OL/DL<br />

Ryan Lauby (6’ 170 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Elm Creek<br />

8/31 Kenesaw<br />

9/7 @ Maxwell<br />

9/14 @ Loomis<br />

9/21 Pleasanton<br />

10/5 Anselmo-Merna<br />

10/12 @ Bertrand<br />

10/19 Elwood<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Chance Engel (6’ 185 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Ethan Sattler (5’11” 165 lbs) Sr. QB/S<br />

Isaac Steinhauser (6’2” 185 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Niobrara/Verdigre<br />

8/31 @ Boyd County<br />

9/7 Bloomfield<br />

9/21 @ St. Mary’s<br />

9/28 Clearwater-Orchard<br />

10/5 @ CWCE<br />

10/11 Twin Loup<br />

10/19 @ Central Valley<br />

Paul Heusinkvelt<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

With the amount of skilled players returning and our ability to run the ball, I predict a very productive season. Every year we look<br />

to compete at the state level and this year we are looking even stronger. We will need to fill in some key lineman on the defensive<br />

and offensive end, but we return all of our backfield and many tight end contributors from last year.<br />

JOSH SKLUZACEK<br />

Overton heads into the <strong>2018</strong> campaign looking to build off of last season. The Eagles had a 5-4 record last fall, which was good enough for third in<br />

the conference, but not as good as the team had hoped. Head coach Paul Heusinkvelt, who has a record of 35-29 in seven years at Overton, says the<br />

team is strong in some areas, but the real winning will be done in the off-season. He is hopeful the Eagles’ gains in the weight room will translate into<br />

success this fall. The Eagles return six starters, led by senior quarterback and safety Braden Kizer, and have four other letter-winners returning, too.<br />

Fortunately, the team has a lot of experience and skill returning in the backfield; if Overton can win in the trenches, the Eagles have potential to be a<br />

tough opponent this season. More good news on that front is that the Eagles have three returning linemen: Schuyler Brown and Kien Martin, who<br />

return as starters, and Christian Smith, who has varsity experience and is ready to take on a bigger role this year. All three are expected to start on<br />

the offensive and defensive lines and will play big roles in giving Kizer and the bevy of talented running backs the necessary space to operate. Wyatt<br />

Ryan and Dalton Carlson will likely fill out the offensive and defensive lines. With a strong, experienced core and a solid supporting cast, Overton<br />

has the potential to be a threat this season.<br />

Colin Schurman<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We look to be very successful this season. We were a playoff team last season and with seven guys returning on both sides of the<br />

ball we look to be very competitive.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Experience. We have a very experienced senior class. We return all of our skill players, including our three-year starter at quarterback<br />

Ethan Sattler. Ethan threw for over 1,500 yards last year and 22 touchdowns. We look for our passing game to be our strength on<br />

offense.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I expect to make the playoffs and win some of those playoff games. I think it would be disappointing if we didn’t do that. Making<br />

the playoffs last year kind of got the monkey off our backs. This senior class is ready to go.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I think, just like any 8-man team, we need to stay healthy. One of our key players, Chance Engel, got injured during the middle of<br />

the season and was out for the year and that hurt us. If we can still healthy, that would be a very big deal for us.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

There’s a strong playoff tradition for the Stuart football program and the expectation is clear for this year’s Broncos. The team went 3-6 in 2017 but<br />

managed to make the postseason which could bring some momentum into this fall. This is a seasoned team that returns just about everyone. Seven<br />

starters on both sides of the ball will be back, meaning experience is not an issue for Stuart. The squad must stay healthy, especially running back<br />

Chance Engel who had more than 500 yards in four games before getting injured. The postseason is the goal and Stuart has the team to not only make<br />

the playoffs, but advance when it gets there.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Eagles<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Paul Heusinkvelt<br />

Career Record: 35-29<br />

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TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Broncos<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 3-6<br />

Head Coach: Colin Schurman<br />

Career Record: 6-11<br />

Assistant Coaches: Doug Erb,<br />

Jon Schmaderer<br />

132 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 133


MERIDIAN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Garrett Klipp (6’2” 195 lbs) Sr. End/DE<br />

Micah Noel (5’11” 200 lbs) Sr. G/DL<br />

Wyatt Haverluck (6’ 195 lbs) Jr. FB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

BLUE HILL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Joe Mackin (5’9” 155 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

8/24 @ Blue Hill<br />

8/31 HTRS<br />

9/14 @ Tri County<br />

9/21 Falls City Sacred Heart<br />

9/28 @ Pawnee City<br />

10/5 @ Parkview Christian<br />

10/12 Johnson-Brock<br />

10/19 Diller-Odell<br />

JC Himmelberg (6’4” 175 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Tony Bauman (6’2” 240 lbs) Sr. C<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

8/24 Meridian<br />

8/31 @ Diller-Odell<br />

9/7 @ Loomis<br />

9/21 Franklin<br />

9/28 @ Giltner<br />

10/5 @ Lawrence-Nelson<br />

10/12 Kenesaw<br />

10/19 Axtell<br />

Clint Jones<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The Mustangs return a lot of experience from a 2017 playoff team. We will need to find an IB to replace Tybor Smith, who was a big<br />

part of our offense last season. We are in a tough district with every team having qualified for the playoffs the previous season. We<br />

will need to develop more depth and stay healthy in order to be competitive in a tough district.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our line on both sides of the ball should be our strength this season. We return our entire line from last year and they are all good<br />

size and move well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our goal every season is to make playoffs and this season is no different. We have a tough district with every team having made<br />

playoffs the previous season. If we can stay healthy and develop more depth, I hope to have the Mustangs in the playoffs again in<br />

<strong>2018</strong>.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The biggest challenge will be replacing Tybor Smith, our IB in 2017. Tybor was a big back and a great leader. Finding someone to<br />

fill his shoes will be challenging. We also need to develop more depth and avoid injuries in order to stay competitive throughout<br />

the season. We can’t afford to have key players sitting out.<br />

Jon Coffey<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The outlook for the Bobcat <strong>2018</strong> season is very optimistic. The returning, as well as the up and coming players, understand what<br />

it takes to have a successful season. We are very excited to get back on the field and prove that hard work and dedication is a big<br />

key to success.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Tradition is the main strength of our team. Our team upholds tradition to high regard because we have been in the playoffs the last<br />

13 consecutive years. Our team speed will benefit us on defense to uphold the Bobcat strong defensive game.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Blue Hill will be very competitive each game. Our main goal is to reach the state playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge is to replace our senior class that showed great leadership.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

This season could be a special one for Meridian. The Mustangs return plenty of starters from a team that finished 5-4 and made the playoffs in<br />

2017. Coach Clint Jones must fill some big shoes as I-back Tybor Smith is graduated. However, the ‘Stangs will rely on their talent in the trenches as<br />

Meridian returns its entire line. The district is tough as every team made the postseason last fall, but this could be Meridian’s year to make a deep run.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The goal is simple for Blue Hill in <strong>2018</strong>: make the playoffs. Jon Coffey’s team is coming off an incredible 12-1 season where it was the runner-up in<br />

D2. The Bobcats have made the postseason 13 years in a row and look to keep that streak alive. The team will have to replace a strong senior class but<br />

expect Blue Hill to uphold tradition and make the playoffs for the 14th straight season.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Mustangs<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Clint Jones<br />

Career Record: 34-69<br />

Assistant Coaches: Chris Placek,<br />

Jacob Baber<br />

Team Name: Bobcats<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 12-1<br />

Head Coach: Jon Coffey<br />

Career Record: 28-6<br />

Assistant Coaches: Riley<br />

Armes,Tyler Auten,<br />

Jake Bachman<br />

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DILLER-ODELL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Bryston Warren (6’2” 190 lbs) Sr. TE/DB<br />

Ryan Arnold (6’1” 180 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

William Mclaughlin (5’11” 175 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

CLEARWATER-ORCHARD<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Jacob Long (6’2” 190 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

8/24 Southern<br />

8/31 Blue Hill<br />

9/7 @ Lawrence-Nelson<br />

9/21 Pawnee City<br />

9/28 @ Johnson-Brock<br />

10/5 Falls City Sacred Heart<br />

10/12 @ Parkview Christian<br />

10/19 @ Meridian<br />

Clay Thiele (6’3” 205 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Chris Kester (6’1” 170 lbs) Sr. QB/WR/CB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

8/24 Neligh-Oakdale<br />

8/31 @ Creighton<br />

9/13 West Holt<br />

9/21 @ Central Valley<br />

9/28 @ Stuart<br />

10/5 Twin Loup<br />

10/11 @ St. Mary’s<br />

10/18 CWCE<br />

Chris Schluter<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The leaders on our team are really excited for the upcoming fall and have been putting in the work. The 2017 season did not close<br />

the way we would have liked and you can tell that in the motivation of our kids. With the toughest schedule we have had in a few<br />

years, we look to make a big splash by competing with some big name programs in the state.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The biggest strength of our team this year will be the experience and senior leadership we have returning. With the experienced<br />

players returning, we will be able to build on our offensive and defensive schemes.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

This team is going to have very lofty goals coming in this fall. A goal we set last year was to host a first round game and advance<br />

to the second Round. We hosted the #9 seed but did not advance. So I would think we would have similar goals this year if not<br />

higher.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Although we have a great group coming back to the team this fall we are going to need to build depth in our underclassmen. We<br />

will need to build reliable back-ups and hopefully stay as healthy as possible.<br />

Jeff Shabram<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have a very nice group of 16 returning lettermen this season, including 12 seniors. We will look to those seniors for leadership.<br />

This will be crucial as we also have 11 freshmen on the roster! Overall, we are excited to see what the <strong>2018</strong> football season has in<br />

store for us.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Depth.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We hope to improve each week including this offseason. Grow and develop as the season moves on.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We need to be patient on offense, tough on defense (not give up the big play), and smart on special teams.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Ryan Arnold passed for more than 1,000 yards and Will Mclaughlin scored 10 rushing touchdowns last season. Both players are back this fall and lead<br />

the way for a Diller-Odell team capable of advancing in the Class D2 playoffs. Arnold is a seasoned and savvy quarterback that can stress opponents<br />

in a variety of ways. Limiting turnovers will be key for Arnold and the rest of the Griffins as they face a schedule that includes playoff contenders<br />

Blue Hill, Lawrence-Nelson, and Falls City Sacred Heart.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Clearwater-Orchard knows all about making the playoffs as the Cyclones have made it nine out of the past ten seasons. Fans can expect the same<br />

production this fall as the ‘Clones return seven starters on both offense and defense from a 6-3 team. Clearwater-Orchard has plenty of depth bringing<br />

size and speed. The coaching staff is relying on the 12 seniors to bring leadership to the squad that is not only hoping to make the playoffs, but<br />

advance a few rounds.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Griffins<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 6-3<br />

Head Coach: Chris Schluter<br />

Career Record: 28-32<br />

Assistant Coaches: Terry Arnold,<br />

John Mohr<br />

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Team Name: Cyclones<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 6-3<br />

Head Coach: Jeff Shabram<br />

Career Record: 71-75<br />

Assistant Coaches: Dan Roeber,<br />

Jared Nolze<br />

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CHAMBERS-WHEELER CENTRAL-EWING<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Joshua Klabenes (6’4 250 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Wyatt Wagner (5’7 150 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Logan Sanford (6’2 185 lbs) So. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 2<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 2<br />

KENESAW<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Taylor Pulver (6’ 175 lbs) Sr. QB/DE<br />

8/24 @ Hartington-Newcastle<br />

8/31 Wausa<br />

9/7 Elgin Public/Pope John<br />

9/21 @ Twin Loup<br />

9/27 St. Mary’s<br />

10/5 Stuart<br />

10/12 @ Central Valley<br />

10/18 @ Clearwater-Orchard<br />

John Schuster (5’10” 175 lbs) Sr. RB/DE<br />

Ryan Denkert (5’10” 185 lbs) Sr. TE/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

8/31 @ Overton<br />

9/7 Pleasanton<br />

9/14 Twin Loup<br />

9/21 @ Axtell<br />

9/28 Lawrence-Nelson<br />

10/5 Franklin<br />

10/12 @ Blue Hill<br />

10/18 @ Giltner<br />

Tom Thramer<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be very young and a lot of the kids will have to learn by trial and error. We will need to put in a lot of work this summer<br />

and that will tell us where we will be come season end.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our offensive and defensive line will be our strengths this year. We return some good size and quickness as well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I want to see our team improve each week. I can’t put a set number of wins on the season, but making the playoffs again would be<br />

a nice.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our youth will be the biggest challenge. We are going to play a lot of inexperienced kids so getting everyone up to speed will be key.<br />

Craig Schnitzler<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have some really good skilled players with speed and strength. They are our leaders and the ones with the most experience.<br />

We are inexperienced up front. They will need to develop and grow quickly in order for us to be a playoff contender.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our skilled kids are our main strength. We have good speed and will need to use it to our advantage until our lineman<br />

develop.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I believe we can be a playoff team. We will need to have a great summer and continue to grow as a team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With all the new faces and inexperience, our biggest challenge will be can we move the football between the TE’s. We are a run first<br />

team and it will be important to develop our lineman.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The strong tradition for Chambers/Wheeler Central/Ewing continues after the Renegades made it to the playoffs again in 2017. The team made it to<br />

the quarterfinals last season and is hoping to make a return to the postseason. There will be plenty of youth for the Renegades but the winning culture<br />

has been set in place for years. Despite the young team, expect Chambers/Wheeler Central/Ewing to have another strong season.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Kenesaw has yet to miss the playoffs this decade and that trend looks to continue for the Blue Devils. Head coach Craig Schnitzler’s team will have<br />

to rely on its speed as Kenesaw is rather inexperienced in the trenches. The development to the lineman is key, but the lines should gel rather quickly.<br />

Despite 2017’s success, the Blue Devils ended last season on a loss and are hungry for another run at the playoffs in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Renegades<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 8-3<br />

Head Coach: Tom Thramer<br />

Career Record: 48-23<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jeremy<br />

Sladek, Ron Petersen, Scott<br />

Young, Randy Pelster<br />

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Team Name: Blue Devils<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 9-1<br />

Head Coach: Craig Schnitzler<br />

Career Record: 114-55<br />

Assistant Coaches: Chuck Roe,<br />

Casey Olson<br />

138 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 139


LAWRENCE-NELSON<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Lane Heikkinen (6’ 175 lbs) Sr. QB<br />

Jake Sharp (6’2” 200 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

Kyle Golay (6’1” 260 lbs) Jr. OL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/30 @ Falls City Sacred Heart<br />

9/7 Diller-Odell<br />

9/14 @ Johnson-Brock<br />

9/22 Giltner<br />

9/28 @ Kenesaw<br />

10/5 Blue Hill<br />

10/12 Axtell<br />

10/18 @ Franklin<br />

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Brian Blevins<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

This year’s team has a lot of potential, with many big-time contributors returning from last year’s quarter final team. However,<br />

depth will be a huge key in our success, along with a very tough schedule. We will need to develop young players that can fill a<br />

big role for us in all three phases of the game, as well as stay healthy to see our highest potential.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our boys are very experienced, tough, and mentally disciplined. This builds our foundation that we will again use as the season<br />

progresses. Our defense will again be one of the most stingy in D2. Offensively, we will continue to run our triple option game,<br />

making preparation and stopping our offense a challenge.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

There are obviously a lot of variables that play a factor in success. As I said before, we have to stay healthy and we have to develop<br />

a lot of younger athletes that can fill voids in our team. If we can do these things, I feel we can complete with anyone. Quarterfinals<br />

or higher is really our expectations for the year.<br />

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DAN COREY<br />

Incredibly, Lawerence-Nelson has only missed the playoffs one time since the year 2000. With tons of talent back, expect the Raiders to be back in the<br />

postseason and in position to win the school’s third title since combining. Old school Nebraska fans will love the way the team plays with the triple<br />

option offense and tough defense. Expect a big year from quarterback Lane Heikkinen and running back Jake Sharp as anyone out of the Raider<br />

backfield could produce a lot of rushing yards.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Raiders<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 8-3<br />

Head Coach: Brian Blevins<br />

Career Record: 58-34<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jerad<br />

Niederklein<br />

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BERTRAND<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Tyler Callahan (5’9” 170 lbs) Sr. QB/DB<br />

Jordan Holen (5’9” 170 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Miles Peterson (6’ 200 lbs) Sr. E/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 7<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Grady Semin (6’2” 180 lbs) Sr. QB/S<br />

8/24 @ Alma<br />

8/31 Amherst<br />

9/7 @ Franklin<br />

9/21 Loomis<br />

9/28 @ Anselmo-Merna<br />

10/5 @ Elwood<br />

10/12 Overton<br />

10/18 Pleasanton<br />

Cole Rosen Krans (6’1” 210 lbs) Sr. OG/DG<br />

Grand Wunkelbauer (6’ 170 lbs) So. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

8/24 @ Boyd County<br />

8/31 @ Bloomfield<br />

9/7 Wausa<br />

9/21 Stuart<br />

9/27 @ CWCE<br />

10/5 Central Valley<br />

10/11 Clearwater-Orchard<br />

10/18 @ Twin Loup<br />

Steve Colfack<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

With seven returning starters back, we hope to compete in our district and this will lead to postseason success. I believe dropping<br />

down from D1 and with nine seniors we should be more successful.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our skill positions have very good experience. We hope to have depth in our line to try and keep them fresh.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We think we will be able to compete in our district. We believe we can make the playoffs and have success there also.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

You are always worried about injuries at key positions, but we have more depth this year than we have had in the past<br />

Tony Allen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will return a lot of experience this year. The schedule is tougher, but with our experience and a good size freshmen class coming<br />

in we should be competitive.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our whole offensive line is back and we have experience at the QB position.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I feel we are very capable of reaching the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

A tough schedule is one of the biggest challenges. With only 18 boys out, we will<br />

have to stay healthy.<br />

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DAN COREY<br />

Bertrand drops down a class to D2 and that will be beneficial to the Vikings as the school looks to bounce back from 2017’s 1-7 season. Not only is<br />

Bertrand looking to win more games, it’s looking to get back into the playoffs as last season was the only time the Vikings have missed the postseason<br />

this decade. This team might feature something many others don’t in D2—depth. If the Vikings can roll early in the season, look for Bertrand to be<br />

in the playoffs.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

St. Mary’s is looking to bounce back after an uncharacteristic 1-7 season in 2017. The Cardinals<br />

are used to making the playoffs and that’s back in reach for the Cards. It’s not often in D2 football<br />

that a team returns its entire offensive line and its quarterback (Grady Semin) but that’s the case<br />

for St. Mary’s. Numbers are slim for the Cardinals but those on the team have a lot of experience<br />

and because of that St. Mary’s could be back playing in early November.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

ON THE GO<br />

Team Name: Vikings<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 1-7<br />

Head Coach: Steve Colfack<br />

Career Record: 126-107<br />

Assistant Coaches: Mark Dethlefs,<br />

Bill Ford<br />

FEBRUARY 3, 2019<br />

Team Name: Cardinals<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 1-7<br />

Head Coach: Tony Allen<br />

Career Record: 103-76<br />

Assistant Coaches: Darold<br />

Schneider<br />

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3423 21st Street<br />

P.O. Box 210<br />

P.O. Box 836<br />

Westgate Shopping Center<br />

140 Main<br />

1100 E. Douglas Street<br />

Columbus, NE 68601<br />

Petersburg, NE 68652<br />

O’Neill, NE 68763<br />

(402) 564-6077<br />

Toll Free: (844) 435-5323<br />

Fax: (402) 835-5325<br />

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Toll Free: (800) 682-0073<br />

Fax: (402) 386-5296<br />

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Toll Free: (877) 336-1474<br />

Fax: (402) 336-1372<br />

www.gpsbanks.com<br />

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LOOMIS<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Isaac Wahls (6’ 180 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Peyton Schultz (5’8’’ 145 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Joshua Marcy (6’4’’ 210 lbs) Jr. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

PLEASANTON<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Tyler Pawlowski (5’7’’ 165 lbs) Sr. QB/RB/LB<br />

8/24 @ Axtell<br />

8/31 Franklin<br />

9/7 Blue Hill<br />

9/14 Overton<br />

9/21 @ Bertrand<br />

10/5 @ Pleasanton<br />

10/12 @ Elwood<br />

10/18 Anselmo-Merna<br />

Riley Racicky (5’10’’ 190 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Jakson Keaschall (5’10’’ 190 lbs) Jr. E/RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

8/24 Ansley-Litchfield<br />

8/31 Axtell<br />

9/7 @ Kenesaw<br />

9/21 @ Overton<br />

9/28 Elwood<br />

10/5 Loomis<br />

10/12 @ Anselmo-Merna<br />

10/18 @ Bertrand<br />

Denis Reese<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We return a good senior class of five. How well we compete will be a reflection of their ability to lead their teammates.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have a good number of backs and ends. We should be quick with good speed.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have a more difficult schedule this year, but I believe that this team has enough talent to qualify for the state playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We need to develop some linemen to give the team some depth in the line. Believing in our abilities and teammates will make us<br />

a much more improved team for <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

Ricci Westland<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

With our returning talent, team chemistry, and the tremendous attitude the boys have shown in the weight room this off-season,<br />

the Bulldogs will be a solid team this fall.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

In the offensive backfield, we return an 1106-yard rusher at QB and a RB who is 5’10”, 190lbs and has run a 10.9 100-meter this<br />

spring, along with throwing the shot over 47 feet.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I believe we can make the <strong>2018</strong> state playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge will be developing a solid offensive line and defensive line.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Longtime head coach Denis Reese is no stranger to the playoffs, but 2017’s 3-5 record left the Wolves on the outside looking in late in the season.<br />

Loomis will again open up the year with Axtell as the Wolves face another tough slate. The defense must be better this year and Loomis will rely on<br />

its senior class of five to help make that happen. Three of the first four games for Loomis are at home; if the Wolves can build up the wins quickly<br />

they could be back in the playoffs.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Pleasanton had a great run in the late 2000’s and is looking to string together good seasons like those teams. Last year was a good start. The Bulldogs<br />

went 5-4 while making the playoffs and return many familiar faces this fall. Quarterback Tyler Pawlowski can really run and running back Riley<br />

Racicky is going to rack up the yards. If the lines come together, especially late in the year, Pleasanton will not only be back in the postseason, it will<br />

be ready to win some games in November.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Wolves<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 3-5<br />

Head Coach: Denis Reese<br />

Career Record: 182-168<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jason<br />

Maaske, Drew Billeter<br />

Team Name: Bulldogs<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Ricci Westland<br />

Career Record: 118-84<br />

Assistant Coaches: Casey<br />

Loomis, Jordan Arensdorf<br />

OUR TEAM COVERING YOUR TEAM ALL SEASON LONG<br />

KEVIN SJUTS • DAN COREY<br />

FRIDAYS AT 10 PM<br />

144 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 145


TWIN LOUP<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Colby Coons (5’8 160 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Raif Ruppert (6’ 235 lbs) Jr. C/DT<br />

Cooper Coons (5’8” 155 lbs) Jr. E/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 1<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

PARKVIEW CHRISTIAN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Matthew Case (5’7” 170 lbs) Sr. RB<br />

8/23 Anselmo-Merna<br />

8/31 @ Riverside<br />

9/14 @ Kenesaw<br />

9/21 CWCE<br />

9/28 Central Valley<br />

10/5 @ Clearwater-Orchard<br />

10/11 @ Stuart<br />

10/18 St. Mary’s<br />

Logan Page (6’1” 175 lbs) Jr. WR<br />

Daniel Davenport (5’6” 180 lbs) Jr. DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

8/24 @ Mead<br />

8/31 Omaha Christian Academy<br />

9/14 @ Clarkson/Leigh<br />

9/21 Johnson-Brock<br />

9/28 @ Falls City Sacred Heart<br />

10/5 Meridian<br />

10/12 Diller-Odell<br />

10/18 @ Pawnee City<br />

Mike Kozeal<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We graduated an excellent group of seniors last year. We have some returning experience but will need to replace many key<br />

players. I would expect us to be pretty good but we will lack depth after our first 10-12 players. Staying healthy will be a key to our<br />

success and we will need to develop our own identity.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We will have a huge line but Ruppert is the only lineman with starting experience. Raif Ruppert 235 lb, Rope Bottorf 300 lb, Ben<br />

Moore 310 lb, and Dillan Saner 280 lb. Our skill positions will be lead by the Coons brothers; both Colby and Cooper have the skill,<br />

speed, and ability to be very good.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We graduated three players that earned all-state honors last year. Alex Horky, who had over 5000 career rushing yards, is gone as<br />

well as all-state punter/kicker Hunter Kraus and lineman Spencer Keefe. We will need to break in seven new starters on offense<br />

and we may have some growning pains in the beginning of the season. We had 30 players out for FB last year; we will be closer to<br />

20 this year, so depth will be a concern.<br />

August Peña<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

With a good amount of players back from last year’s team, we expect for Parkview to have a high-powered offense that will cause<br />

opposing teams problems.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Offensively, we have speed. Defensively, we will have players that will be able to go downhill and hit hard.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

With last year’s state playoffs berth, we expect great things this season. Reasonablly, I do not see why we cannot make it deep into<br />

the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We lose our whole offensive line. Having to replace three seniors will be tough but we believe that we have players that will step<br />

up.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

At Twin Loup, it’s reload, not rebuild, and it will need to do just that in <strong>2018</strong>. The Wolves lost a lot of members from the 10-1 pack that reached the<br />

state quarterfinals. Three all-state players have graduated but the Wolves are looking to stay on track and use momentum to reach the playoffs again.<br />

The spark should come from Colby and Cooper Coons who could rack up some major yards this fall. This team should be seasoned by late October<br />

and ready to make another run in the playoffs to keep it’s five-year postseason streak alive.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Wolves<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 10-1<br />

Head Coach: Mike Kozeal<br />

Career Record: 153 - 60<br />

Assistant Coaches: Zane Young,<br />

Rusty Ruppert, Cory Beran<br />

After ending the school’s three-year playoff drought last fall, Parkview Christian is hoping to get back to the postseason in <strong>2018</strong>. That’s a realistic goal<br />

for August Pena’s team, which scored 50 or more points three times last year. The Patriots have a manageable schedule, though a playoff-like matchup<br />

awaits in Week 6. That’s when Parkview Christian travels to Falls City Sacred Heart for a rematch of last year’s first-round game.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Patriots<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

Head Coach: August Peña<br />

Career Record: 4-5<br />

Assistant Coaches: Nathan Baber<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

146 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 147


ANSELMO-MERNA<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Dawson Duryea (5’7” 185 lbs) Sr. DL/OL<br />

Seth Miller (5’11” 155 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Jace Liebhart (6’3” 160 lbs) Jr. QB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 6<br />

GILTNER<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Trevor Linden (5’8’’ 190 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

8/23 @ Twin Loup<br />

8/31 Mullen<br />

9/7 Sandhills/Thedford<br />

9/21 @ Elwood<br />

9/28 Bertrand<br />

10/5 @ Overton<br />

10/12 Pleasanton<br />

10/18 @ Loomis<br />

Dayne Hinrichs (5’1’’ 180 lbs) Sr. WR/DE<br />

Lance McKay (5’9’’ 180 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

8/24 @ Heartland<br />

8/31 Central Valley<br />

9/14 @ Humphrey St. Francis<br />

9/22 @ Lawrence-Nelson<br />

9/28 Blue Hill<br />

10/5 @ Axtell<br />

10/12 Franklin<br />

10/18 Kenesaw<br />

Matt McGinn<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

The kids are hungry to improve on their 3-5 record from last year. They have worked extremely hard in the offseason with goals of<br />

making the playoffs and having a great successful season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The kids have done a great job preparing in the off-season for this year’s football season. I believe their hard work, leadership,<br />

experience, and hunger to improve on last season’s record will serve them well.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Work hard, play as a team, take it one game at a time, and most importantly have fun will be the formula for success with this<br />

team.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The biggest challleges will be learning to play a tough physical style of football for four quarters and staying injury free.<br />

Chip Bartos<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We have the opportunity to be very competitive this season. Our winning tradition will definitely help lead us to a successful<br />

season. Our tough schedule should be seen as an opportunity to get a couple key wins and set us up for playoffs.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Our experienced O-line, speed, and experience at our running back position; and second year in my system will build confidence<br />

in our players to be able to execute effectively.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We should reach the playoffs with a winning record. Hopefully we can advance to the second round or go a step further than last<br />

year in the postseason.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our biggest challenge is our lack of depth at certain skill positions. We also graduate nine seniors, so it will be tough to replace<br />

their leadership.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

After making the playoffs every year from 2000-2015, Anselmo-Merna is in the midst of a playoff drought. The Coyotes gained some momentum<br />

at the end of 2017 by scoring 90 points in their last game to end a 3-5 season. With returning six starters on both sides of the ball, A-M should be in<br />

contention to get back into the playoff bracket. From what the coaching staff has said, this team is where it needs to be mentally going into the fall.<br />

If it can stay healthy, a return to the postseason could be likely.<br />

KEVIN SJUTS<br />

Quarterback is key in Chip Bartos’ offense and finding a new starting QB will be key for the second-year head coach. Junior Lance McKay is the<br />

leading candidate to replace Alex Goracke, who passed for more than 2,000 yards in 2017. Regardless the QB, expect Giltner to continue to produce<br />

offensively. The Hornets’ high-scoring attack averaged 44 points last fall while learning a new system. Opponents may have a hard time keeping up<br />

with the Hornets, which could result in a deep playoff run in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Coyotes<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 3-5<br />

Head Coach: Matt McGinn<br />

Career Record: None<br />

Assistant Coaches: Chad Duryea<br />

Jason Reed Carlie Wells<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Hornets<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 6-4<br />

Head Coach: Chip Bartos<br />

Career Record: 7-19<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jared Hastings<br />

402.849.2400 • 216 Tonya Drive • Giltner, NE<br />

148 <strong>2018</strong> <strong>Prepzone</strong> <strong>Pigskin</strong> <strong>Preview</strong> www.1011now.com/prepzonepigskinpreview 149


AXTELL<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Creighton Kring (6’2” 170lbs) Sr. RB/S<br />

Lane Bertrand (6’1’’ 175 lbs) Sr. TE/OLB<br />

Tyler Danburg (6’2” 175 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

MEDICINE VALLEY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Reid Stout (5’9” 150 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

8/24 Loomis<br />

8/31 @ Pleasanton<br />

9/7 Elwood<br />

9/21 Kenesaw<br />

9/28 @ Franklin<br />

10/5 Giltner<br />

10/12 @ Lawrence-Nelson<br />

10/19 @ Blue Hill<br />

Dylan Davis (5’10” 180 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Sam Heapy (5’10” 165 lbs) Jr. QB/DB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

8/24 @ Wallace<br />

8/31 Elwood<br />

9/7 @ Wauneta-Palisade<br />

9/21 Maxwell<br />

9/28 Mullen<br />

10/4 @ Brady<br />

10/12 Garden County<br />

10/18 @ Sandhills/Thedford<br />

Dean R. Marsh<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

I really look for a much improved team as far as blocking and tackling is concerned. Our schedule is also more favorable with Blue<br />

Hill losing a lot of seniors and BDS moving up to D1. We feel very good about finishing the season with a winning season and a<br />

playoff berth.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Working hard and getting along are our main goals and strengths. I believe we were in as good or better condition than every team<br />

we faced.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Finish above .500, compete for a district title, and get past the first round in the playoffs.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We lost a lot of leadership and we are looking for some kids to step up into these roles. We are also very limited on size and<br />

numbers, so we need to stay injury-free and put on pounds of muscle this summer.<br />

Scott Johnsen<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Coming off a wonderful 2017 season, the team is excited to continue the recent success. Lack of returning starters will be an<br />

obstacle that we will need to overcome. Success early in the season will help get us started on the right path.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

Experience in a couple of skill positions.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Each year is a new adventure, but we always have the goal to qualify for the playoffs and always play one game at a time.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Lack of experience and depth will be an obstacle that we will need to overcome.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It’s bounceback time for Axtell in <strong>2018</strong> as the Wildcats went 2-6 and missed the playoffs last season. The culture is still being set with head coach Dean<br />

Marsh and this fall could be a turnaround for the ‘Cats. Conditioning is going to be a factor for Axtell as the Wildcats will look to be in great shape on<br />

fall Friday nights. The goal is simply to compete each week with .500 in range and possibly a shot at the postseason, its first playoff berth since 2015.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

What a special ride 2017 was for Medicine Valley. The Raiders marched through the season undefeated until running into a buzzsaw in South Loup<br />

in the state semifinals. Medicine Valley graduated a lot of players off that team but the winning expectation and culture are still intact. It’s a loaded<br />

backfield and should get the Raiders off to a good start. The team might be slow out of the gate due to all the new players but this team should be<br />

poised late in the year at making another run in the postseason.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Wildcats<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 2-6<br />

Head Coach: Dean R. Marsh<br />

Career Record: 2-6<br />

Assistant Coaches: Brian Olsen,<br />

Dan Schroer, Justin Swedeburg<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Raiders<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 11-1<br />

Head Coach: Scott Johnsen<br />

Career Record: 123-116<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jason Maier,<br />

Derek Bantam<br />

SUNDAYS ON<br />

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WAUNETA-PALISADE<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Dalton Harchelroad (5’1’’ 170 lbs) Sr. B/LB<br />

Caid Doetker (6’5’’ 185 lbs) Sr. E/DE<br />

Austen Rozele (6’ 176 lbs) Jr. B/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 9<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 7<br />

FRANKLIN<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Chase Haussermann (5’10” 190 lbs) Sr. FB/<br />

8/24 Hitchcock County<br />

8/31 @ Dundy County-Stratton<br />

9/7 Medicine Valley<br />

9/21 @ Paxton<br />

9/28 @ Brady<br />

10/5 Garden County<br />

10/12 Wallace<br />

10/19 @ Leyton/Banner County<br />

LB Jacob Cooper (6’3” 270 lbs) Sr. C/N<br />

Ryan Weiss (5’9” 150 lbs) Jr. QB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 6<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

8/24 Shelton<br />

8/31 @ Loomis<br />

9/7 Bertrand<br />

9/21 @ Blue Hill<br />

9/28 Axtell<br />

10/5 @ Kenesaw<br />

10/12 @ Giltner<br />

10/18 Lawrence-Nelson<br />

Randy Geier & Joseph Frecks<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We are excited for the <strong>2018</strong> season. Our weight room work ethic has been good. We need to avoid the injury bug that hurt us last<br />

season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have good experience coming back. The attitude and work ethic of our team will be good. We have 14 seniors and juniors who<br />

are good leaders.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We expect to be competitive in every game. Our experience will hopefully allow us to be in the hunt for a district title. Our athletes<br />

have demonstrated an excellent practice work ethic.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We have a very demanding schedule. Our district will be extremely challenging.<br />

Michael Miller<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Our school board voted to drop and play D2 instead of D1, due to lack of numbers and to hopefully play teams that we would be<br />

more competitive against. That doesn’t mean we will have an easy time of it, as we will still be playing two of the best teams we<br />

played in 2017, Kenesaw and Blue Hill. I still expect us to match up better against most of the teams we will be playing.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We graduated some of our key players, but unlike last year, most of our returning players saw a lot of playing time. As last season<br />

went on, we started to get some identity and showed overall improvement, finishing the season with our best game. Our defensive<br />

leader and leading tackler (Chase Haussermann) and offensive leader (quarterback Ryan Weiss) will both be back, which should<br />

give us a good starting point.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

The entire coaching staff was new in 2017 and I will be the only returning full time coach for <strong>2018</strong>. We have made some great hires<br />

and we will have a full staff for the <strong>2018</strong> season. Replacing key players, including our I-backs and our kicker will be a challenge.<br />

Numbers will again be an issue, but at this time it looks like we will have several kids that didn’t play last year, besides our<br />

incoming freshmen to add to our numbers.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Two seasons in a row, Wauneta-Palisade has made the playoffs and expect this fall to be same. The Broncos return nine starters on offense and seven<br />

on defense, so experience will not be an issue for W-P. Strong senior and junior classes will anchor this team into a year where the Broncos will look<br />

to contend for a district championship. It’s a tough district but if Wauneta-Palisade was on a mission this off-season, expect that to pay off on Friday<br />

nights this fall.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Broncos<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 5-4<br />

Head Coach: Randy Geier,<br />

Joseph Frecks<br />

Career Record: 174-109/37-35<br />

Assistant Coaches: Mark Frecks<br />

DAN COREY<br />

The Franklin football team is just getting going with head coach Michael Miller. Last year, the Flyers went winless in Class D1. This fall, Franklin will<br />

be playing in D2. Although the schedule will still be difficult, this move should give the Flyers a chance to have a much better season. Ryan Weiss and<br />

Chase Haussermann both return and if the team continues to grow such as it did last season, Franklin could surprise some new opponents in <strong>2018</strong>.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Flyers<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 0-8<br />

Head Coach: Michael Miller<br />

Career Record: 24-33<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ryan<br />

Hoffman, Seth Elley, Devin Solk0<br />

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CENTRAL VALLEY<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

N/A<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 5<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 5<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/23 @ Riverside<br />

8/31 @ Giltner<br />

9/13 Elgin Public/Pope John<br />

9/21 Clearwater-Orchard<br />

9/28 @ Twin Loup<br />

10/5 @ St. Mary’s<br />

10/12 CWCE<br />

10/19 Stuart<br />

608 Howard Ave, St Paul, NE 68873<br />

308-754-4611<br />

PROUDLY SUPPORTING ALL AREA SCHOOLS<br />

YOUR DAILY HUSKER COVERAGE ALL SEASON LONG<br />

HIGHLIGHTS • INTERVIEWS • ANALYSIS<br />

Jess Rother<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

I really hope we can improve on our season from last year. I think we are going to be better and if we can make strides and not get<br />

complacent and just be happy with just making the playoffs, we should be okay.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength of our team is our youth and our eagerness to want to learn and get better each time we play. Our backfield will<br />

be strong and line play will get better as the year goes on.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

I have high expectations for our team this year. Barring injuries, if everyone stays healthy I think our team can be 5 and 3 or<br />

better.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Biggest challenges for our team is going to be leadership, with an abundance of youth leading our team. I hope we as a coaching<br />

staff and our seniors can keep this team focused and headed down the right path. We have an abundance of good athletes and I<br />

hope we can stay TEAM oriented and not worry about stats.<br />

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DAN COREY<br />

The Cougars are coming off a trip to the playoffs in 2017, but <strong>2018</strong> will feature several new names on the Central Valley roster. There is only a handful<br />

of seniors on the squad so CV will have to be patient with the youth on the team. The Cougars will look to sophomore Jackson McIntyre who did it<br />

all on offense as a freshman. Having a strong team bond will be key for this season and if the squad can come together it could mean a return trip to<br />

the postseason.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Cougars<br />

Class: D2<br />

2017 Record: 3-6<br />

Head Coach: Jess Rother<br />

Career Record: 30-32<br />

Assistant Coaches: Jason<br />

McIntyre, Riley Bonifas<br />

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SILVER LAKE<br />

McCOOL JUNCTION<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Zane Journey (5’10” 220 lbs) Jr. RB/E<br />

Tommy Grimes (5’9” 200 lbs) Jr. RB/LB<br />

Canyen Jameson (5’11” 220 lbs) Soph. OL/DL<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 3<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 3<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 Lewiston<br />

8/31 @ Maywood-Hayes Center<br />

9/14 McCool Junction<br />

9/21 Red Cloud<br />

9/28 @ Wilcox-Hildreth<br />

10/5 Hampton<br />

10/12 @ Harvard<br />

10/19 @ Heartland Lutheran<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Jaden Gonnerman (5’9” 165 lbs) Sr. DE/B<br />

Dana Hobbs (5’5” 145 lbs) Jr. S/B<br />

Owen McDonald (6’ 165 lbs) So. LB/QB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 4<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 4<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

8/24 @ Hampton<br />

8/31 @ HLHF<br />

9/7 Santee<br />

9/14 @ Silver Lake<br />

9/21 Sterling<br />

9/28 Deshler<br />

10/5 @ Lewiston<br />

10/12 Dorchester<br />

Kyle Conroy<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We will be an inexperienced team this fall. We do have a lot of size, especially for a 6-man team. If we can improve our blocking<br />

and open-field tackling, we will have a successful season.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

The main strength of our team will be our size. We are going to be running the ball a lot so our size will help.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We are probably looking at a .500 season. We play some teams new to 6-man so we aren’t sure what to expect from them.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Lack of experience on the varsity level. We will probably only have 10 or 11 boys on our roster, so depth is always a concern.<br />

Jarrod Weiss<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

We look to be very competitive this upcoming season. We have a number of players returning with valuble experience. We are<br />

making the move to 6-man football, which will be a good move for us with the number of guys we have out.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

With the move to 6-man, we have a number of guys who possess good speed. I feel that is a key attribute when it comes to playing<br />

the 6-man game. We have a good nucleus of guys coming back at the skill positions that will help us out throughout the season.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

If we work hard in the off-season and gain some depth at certain positions, I feel that we can be competitive in each game. We have<br />

to be better at maintaining consistency each night and really focus on learning how to win games. How we transition to the 6-man<br />

game will be key as well; there are a lot of quality teams that play at this level.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We will need to develop depth due to our low numbers, so we will need guys to play some positions they may not be accustomed<br />

to playing. We also will need to be better tacklers in open space. There will be an adjustment period to the 6-man game since we<br />

haven’t played at this level in many years. We will be learning on the fly, so each game will be a challenge for us in that aspect.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

Kyle Conroy takes over for Silver Lake as the Mustangs look to improve on last season’s 4-4 team. It will be a numbers game for the ‘Stangs as the<br />

roster will have about a dozen kids. The team, however, will have plenty of size and that could pay off in the run game. The one-two punch of Journey<br />

and Grimes is expected to produce some big numbers out of the backfield, and if it does Silver Lake could be looking at a successful season.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

There’s some renewed energy around the McCool Junction football program. The team is making the move to 6-man football and that fits the<br />

Mustangs well. McCool Junction did make the playoffs last fall and with some speed returning, the Mustangs could very well do so this year. Speed<br />

and open-field tackling will be the key for McCool Junction to not only make the playoffs but win a game in the postseason.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Mustangs<br />

Class: D6<br />

2017 Record: 4-4<br />

Head Coach: Kyle Conroy<br />

Career Record: 0-0<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ryan Behmer<br />

FEBRUARY 3, 2019<br />

Team Name: Mustangs<br />

Class: D6<br />

2017 Record: 2-7<br />

Head Coach: Jarrod Weiss<br />

Career Record: 33-76<br />

Assistant Coaches: Scott Yates,<br />

Bill Hobbs, Dustin Arduser<br />

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EUSTIS-FARNAM<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

Christian Timm (5’9” 190 lbs) Sr. RB/DB<br />

Jordan Fangmeyer (6’2” 250 lbs) Sr. E/NG<br />

Tanner Fangmeyer (6’ 210 lbs) Jr. QB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 8<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 8<br />

DORCHESTER<br />

KEY PLAYERS...<br />

<strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE <strong>2018</strong> SCHEDULE<br />

Cole Johnson (6’2” 200 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

8/24 Creek Valley<br />

8/31 @ South Platte<br />

9/7 Elba<br />

9/14 @ Deshler<br />

9/21 @ MCS<br />

9/28 Maywood-Hayes Center<br />

10/5 Wilcox-Hildreth<br />

10/18 @ Sumner-Eddyville-Miller<br />

Nathan Cochnar (6’1” 190 lbs) Sr. TE/DE<br />

Jonathan Vielma (5’7” 160 lbs) Sr. RB/LB<br />

Number of returning offensive starters: 0<br />

Number of returning defensive starters: 0<br />

8/24 Walthill<br />

8/31 @ St. Edward<br />

9/7 Hampton<br />

9/21 Deshler<br />

9/28 @ Lewiston<br />

10/5 Heartland Lutheran<br />

10/12 @ McCool Junction<br />

10/18 @ Sterling<br />

Bryan Fangmeyer<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

Once we learn the 6-man game, I feel we can be competitive and look to improve each and every game.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We return a lot of players with starting and varsity experience. Our kids have had a good off-season and show good work ethic in<br />

the summer to build on last year.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our main goal has been, and will continue to be, improve from the first practice of the year to the last game of the year. We look to<br />

compete at a high level each and every day, play, and game.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Learning the 6-man game and putting all the pieces together for a successful season.<br />

Brent Zoubek<br />

What is the outlook for your team this season?<br />

6-man is new to our players, coaches, fans, and community. We are very excited to have Friday night lights back in Dorchester. We<br />

are a young and inexperienced team. We want to get better each week and compete to the best of our abilities.<br />

What is the main strength of your team?<br />

We have some quick and athletic kids. If they learn to go hard and compete every play, they have the potential to do some good<br />

things for our team this fall.<br />

What are reasonable expectations for your team in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

We want to keep improving as we move through the season, getting better each week. We want to compete with the teams on our<br />

schedule. It’s a fresh start for us as a football program as this is the first time on our own since 2012. This year’s team is laying the<br />

foundation for the future of our program.<br />

What are the biggest challenges your team faces in <strong>2018</strong>?<br />

Our lack of experience will be our greatest challenge. We only have a handful of guys that have played high school football. To say<br />

we are inexperienced is an understatement. 6-man football will be new to our entire team, including the coaching staff. It will be<br />

a work in progress.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

It will be about continuing to learn the 6-man game in <strong>2018</strong> for Eustis-Farnam. The Knights will face new opponents in <strong>2018</strong> so the 2-6 2017 season<br />

will be long gone. The Knights have plenty of players back this season and will be banking on them to improve to get back to or better than .500. The<br />

offense can put up some major points and if the defense can improve weekly, the Knights could have a solid team.<br />

DAN COREY<br />

There’s plenty of excitement around the Dorchester community as the Longhorns get started in 6-man football and bring the Friday night lights back<br />

to town. The team will be young and inexperienced but expect Brent Zoubek’s team to grow each week. Dorchester will have some speed that will<br />

help them in 6-man, ball but this season is about laying the foundation for the program.<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

TEAM FACTS<br />

Team Name: Knights<br />

Class: D6<br />

2017 Record: 2-6<br />

Head Coach: Bryan Fangmeyer<br />

Career Record: 60-38<br />

Assistant Coaches: Ben Spiegal,<br />

Nick Hodge, Jeremy Walters<br />

Team Name: Longhorns<br />

Class: D6<br />

2017 Record: 4-5<br />

(11-man as Milford-Dorchester)<br />

Head Coach: Brent Zoubek<br />

Career Record: N/A<br />

Assistant Coaches: Brandon<br />

Bruha<br />

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