GACC routs East Butler to open season

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Bluejays routed East Butler on the road Friday night, winning 68-14.

GACC led 22-0 at the end of the 1st quarter, and shutout the Tigers 24-0 in the 2nd quarter to go up 46-0 at halftime.

The Bluejays tripled up East Butler 22-8 in the 3rd quarter to lead 68-8 after the three.

The Tigers shutout GACC 6-0 in the 4th quarter.

Jared Minnick had 165 yards rushing on 14 carries, and scored four touchdowns. Cody Steffen had 6 carries for 131 yards and two touchdowns. Nate Niewohner had a team-high 8 tackles.

The Bluejays totaled 386 yards of total offense, and had 339 rushing.

The defense gave up 137 yards of total offense, 107 of them passing.

Very strong, dominant performance from GACC. The Bluejays appeared to look like they're in championship form already.

GACC (1-0) travels to Howells-Dodge (1-0) Friday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Jaguars won 34-16 at Clarkson/Leigh last week.

That was a nice win for Howells-Dodge, but the Jaguars weren't quite as dominant as the Bluejays it appears.

If GACC plays like they did against East Butler I think they stand a great chance to win, but if they aren't as sharp and struggle then I could see the Jaguars getting them.

I feel these two teams are about even from a talent standpoint although Cody Steffen's running ability could make the difference.

He has kind of emerged and came out of nowhere, and served nicely as a second running threat to Minnick.

GACC Head Coach Dave Ridder against Howells-Dodge Head Coach Mike Speirs...what else needs to be said?

There's a lot of state championship trophies and rings and appearances at Memorial Stadium between those two coaches.

It should be a great battle and chess match, and hopefully the game is very close and competitive.

I could see the Bluejays running away with things, but knowing the Jaguars and Speirs this thing will be close.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. with pregame at 6:30 on the Bull.

Howells-Dodge knocks off Clarkson/Leigh in season opener

The Howells-Dodge Football Team defeated Clarkson/Leigh 34-16 on the road Friday night.

Here is a scoring recap from the game:

First Quarter

Howells-Dodge 04:52 #10 Darrin Pokorny pass complete to #1 Luke Rocheford for 54 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion run by #28 Dylan Horejsi no good)

Second Quarter

Howells-Dodge 07:41 #28 Dylan Horejsi runs for 68 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion run by #3 Josh Breser no good)
Howells-Dodge 04:02 #10 Darrin Pokorny pass complete to #3 Josh Breser for 36 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion pass by #10 Darrin Pokorny to #25 Kade Hegemann good)

Third Quarter

Clarkson-Leigh High School 09:35 #6 Lance Paprocki pass complete to #2 Travis Stanley for 27 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion run by #34 Tommy McEvoy good)
Howells-Dodge 09:20 Kickoff by #62 Cort Pokorney to the 30 yard line. #1 Luke Rocheford return for 70 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion run by #28 Dylan Horejsi no good)
Howells-Dodge 01:47 #28 Dylan Horejsi runs for 55 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion run by #4 Gaute Gunleiksrud good)

Fourth Quarter

Clarkson-Leigh High School 02:20 #23 Isaak Wiese runs for 6 yards. Touchdown! (Two point conversion pass by #6 Lance Paprocki to #11 Carter Hanel good)

The Jaguars led 6-0 after one and shutout the Patriots 14-0 in the 2nd quarter to take a 20-0 lead into the locker room. The third quarter saw Howells-Dodge outscore Clarkson/Leigh 14-8 and extend their lead to 34-8 at the end of three. The Patriots blanked the Jaguars 8-0 in the 4th quarter.

Horejsi finished with 178 yards rushing on 14 carries and two touchdowns. Darrin Pokorny was 4-7 passing for 130 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.

Luke Rocheford hauled in 3 passes for 96 yards and scored a touchdown.

Kade Hegemann racked up a game-high 28 tackles while Trevor Schumacher had 21. Lane Hegemann and Carter Jensen totaled 12 apiece while Josh Brester and Charlie Dvorak notched 9 each. Pokorny added 7.

The Jaguars rolled up 329 yards of total offense, including 199 passing. The defense gave up 240 yards of total offense, 157 of them coming on the ground.

Good strong, solid performance from Howells-Dodge, although I feel like the Jaguars can and need to be more dominant.

Howells-Dodge (1-0) hosts Guardian Angels Central Catholic (1-0) Friday night in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

The Bluejays steamrolled defending state champion East Butler 68-14 on the road last week.

It's that kind of dominance that I think the Jaguars have to be concerned about.

Howells-Dodge had a nice game against Clarkson/Leigh, but GACC looked to be the part in their game.

The Jaguars are going to have to play exceptional football to knock off the Bluejays, and it starts with slowing down Jared Minnick in the run game.

Howells-Dodge has to wrap him up and not let him break loose for big runs if at all possible.

The Jaguars have to shore and tighten up their defensive line, and players like Kade and Lane Hegemann have to take it upon themselves to be tackling machines.

Going up against the likes of offensive lineman Casey Doernemann of GACC makes for an interesting battle up front that's for sure.

Don't forget Howells-Dodge has a star running back of their own in Horejsi so look for him to have a good game as well.

I think the difference in this game could be st Quarterback. It's GACC Cody Steffen's running ability against Pokorny's arm. Then you have the outside skill positions. The Bluejays have players like Jadyn Smeal, but then again the Jaguars have Rocheford.

These two teams appear to be pretty even from a personnel and talent standpoint, and I'm looking forward to a really good game Friday night.

Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. with pregame at 6:30 on the Bull.

Winnebago crushes Pender in season opener

The Winnebago Indians started off the season in impressive fashion Friday night, downing Pender 50-14 on the road in the season opener.

Winnebago led 12-0 at the end of the 1st quarter, and outscored the Pendragons 14-6 in the second quarter to take a 26-6 lead into the locker room.

The Indians blanked Pender 18-0 in the 3rd quarter to get out to a 44-6 lead at the end of three.

The Pendragons won the 4th quarter 8-6.

The defense surrendered 210 yards of total offense, including 132 on the ground.

Great team win for the Indians. Winnebago was very solid defensively, and I'm sure they were great offensively as well.

The Indians (1-0) take on Lutheran High Northeast (0-0) on the road Friday night.

The Eagles drop down from C-2, and figure to be a very good football team.

I think already playing a game benefits Winnebago, but LHNE figures to be tough.

As well as the Indians played against Pender, they're going to need to play even better against the Eagles.

Winnebago has to be ready to be physical at the line of scrimmage, and stop the run as well as the pass.

I thought the Indians were solid in stopping the run Friday night, but they're going to need to be even better against LHNE.

Winnebago has to be mentally and physically ready to play and go.

Prosper Gilpin, Tyrese Gorrin, and T.J. Frenchman as well as Robbie Lovejoy all need to have big games for the Indians.

Winnebago has to be well conditioned so they can find and have that extra gear in the 4th quarter.

You can bet the Eagles will be in great shape, and will try and wear down the Indians with their power run game.

Winnebago has to be ready to answer the call and bell, and must find something extra when they think they don't have anything left.

The Indians have to play with a ton of pride and must be ready for the big stage.

Memorial Field is a historic field, and Winnebago has to do their best to write some history at that field.

It would be something if the Indians went in there and pulled out a victory.

It doesn't figure to be easy, but anything can happen.

The biggest thing for Winnebago is to stay level headed.

The Indians can't get all cocky and big headed, and think they're just going to easily roll the Eagles.

Winnebago has to work hard for their points and stops just like they did in the opener against the Pendragons.

Wisner-Pilger wins opener over Cross County

The Wisner-Pilger Football Team won their opener Friday night, defeating Cross County 50-34 on the road.

I know they're 8-man now, but winning that first game had to feel so good for the Gators.

Wisner-Pilger (1-0) plays host to East Butler (0-1) Friday night.

The defending D-1 champs lost 68-14 at home to GACC last week.

Before the season started I looked at this game as perhaps being a loss for the Gators, and it could be, but I think after seeing the results of Week 1, Wisner-Pilger has a great chance to win.

The Gators have to be confident and must feel optimistic about their chances and abilities.

Wisner-Pilger has to continue to put points on the board and has to keep working to improve defensively.

The Gators have to be physical at the line of scrimmage, and must run and defend the run well.

Wisner-Pilger has to play hard, smart, and physical, and get fired up and motivated to play the defending champs.

The Tigers played at Memorial Stadium last year, and the Gators have to be chomping at the bit and licking their chops to play these guys.

You have a perennial C-2 team welcoming in the defending D-1 champs. Sounds like Gator time and bait to me.

Wisner-Pilger has to run the ball hard and with a full head of steam.

I said it once and I'll say it again, big hits are nice, but wrapping up is key.

The Gators have to create some turnovers to set up short fields for themselves as well.

Jumping routes and taking chances are going to be important for Wisner-Pilger as well, in my opinion.

The Gators have to be awfully jacked for this one.

I think Wisner-Pilger has to feel pretty good about things this year, at least a lot better than they have in recent years.

The Gators just have to continue to make strides and gain confidence.

Winning helps that, and if Wisner-Pilger can be undefeated heading into the GACC game on September 21st who knows what the Gators can do in that game.

One game at a time though as I'm sure East Butler has Wisner-Pilger's full attention.

Stanton narrowly edges David City in high scoring road affair

The Stanton Football Team won a high scoring affair at David City Friday night, pulling out a 45-43 win.

The game was tied at 14 at the end of one before the Scouts outscored the Mustangs 21-8 in the second quarter to take a 35-22 lead into the locker room.

Stanton blanked David City 7-0 in the 3rd quarter to make it a 35-29 game at the end of three.

The Mustangs doubled up the Scouts 16-8 in the 4th quarter to make up the final score.

Senior Marcus Spotanski shined at QB for Stanton, going 6-11 for 242 yards with 3 touchdowns.

Kadyn Fernau hauled in two passes for 106 yards and a touchdown while Sutton Pohlman brought in two passes for 105 yards, and scored a touchdown.

On the ground, Fernau had 92 yards on 4 carries, including two scores. Gage Tighe had 11 carries for 51 yards.

Issiah Borgmann had a team-high 7 tackles for the Mustangs.

Stanton had 518 yards of total offense, including 276 on the ground. The defense gave up 324 yards of total offense, 233 of them rushing.

I'm sure Stanton is glad they won, but wow what a scare. I'm sure the Mustangs know they have some things to clean up.

Stanton (1-0) hosts Tekamah-Herman (0-1) Friday night.

The Tigers lost 36-8 at home to Ponca last week.

The Indians jumped on Tekamah-Herman 22-0, and I think it's imperative that the Mustangs do the same thing.

Stanton has to make a statement, and smack the Tigers in the mouth.

I understand David City was a C-1 team prior to this year, but that game shouldn't have been as close as it was.

The Mustangs have to shore some things up on defense and tackle better.

Stanton has to stop the run better and must continue to have balance offensively.

The Mustangs showed they can score, but they're going to need to be able to stop the run given the nature of their district.

You can bet Tekamah-Herman will try and pound the rock right at the Mustangs so Stanton has to be ready to stop the run.

I think if you're the Mustangs you try and take the run away and make the Tigers one dimensional.

Force Tekamah-Herman into uncomfortable throwing situations and attack.

Bringing blitzes and doing stunts will be important to the success of this defense as well I would say.

Everyone has to fly to the ball and wrap up.

Hard hits are great, but wrapping up and tackling is key and is what is most important in my mind.

Stanton has to go out there and play a complete game on both sides of the football and get back on track.

The schedule only gets tougher after this so the Mustangs have to make sure they're ready to go when it counts.

This is one of those games where you want to iron out your kinks and turn in a complete 4 quarter performance.

Dominant offense and dominant defense, that's what Stanton has to aim for to get on the right track, in my opinion.

Tekamah-Herman drops season opener against Ponca

The Tekamah-Herman Football Team came up a little short Friday night, falling 36-8 at home to Ponca in the season opener.

The Indians led 22-0 at the end of the 1st quarter, and shutout the Tigers 8-0 in the 2nd quarter to take a 30-0 lead into the locker room.

Tekamah-Herman won the 4th quarter 8-6 after a scoreless 3rd quarter.

Gage Drummond and Cody Elliot made 13 tackles apiece while Luke Wakehouse had 10. Chauncey Rogers, Garrison Potadle, and Brandon Schram each recorded 9 apiece while Tristan Metzger and Kasey Snyder racked up 7 each.

I thought it was a great effort from the Tigers, they just came up short.

Tekamah-Herman (0-1) takes on Stanton (1-0) on the road Friday night.

The Mustangs won 45-43 at David City last week.

I think that game shows the Tigers can compete and score points on Stanton.

I feel Tekamah-Herman has a chance to make things interesting, and possibly pull off the upset.

I was expecting more out of the Mustangs in Week 1, especially from their defense, but they struggled, and so the Tigers must take advantage.

Tekamah-Herman has go out there and be electrified and ready to take it to Stanton for 4 quarters.

This is another chance for the Tigers to win and shine, and show what they can do.

Tekamah-Herman has to have good tackling like they had against Ponca.

A lot of kids struck the high number of tackles column, and I look for that to continue this week.

What it really comes and boils down to is the Tigers playing fearless and to win.

Tekamah-Herman can't be afraid to fail on a particular play. If the Tigers struggle on a given play they have to forget about it and move on to the next play.

Not dwelling on past mistakes and mishaps is going to be important for Tekamah-Herman, in my opinion.

The Tigers need to have a quick memory, and forget about the bad and move on to the next play.

Tekamah-Herman has to play smart, aggressive, and hard nosed football.

The Tigers have to be ready to play 4 quarters of football, and must put forth their best and maximum effort at all times.

I also feel it's imperative for Tekamah-Herman not to dig themselves an early hole.

Getting down 22-0 against the Indians doomed the Tigers, in my opinion.

Hopefully Tekamah-Herman got that out of their system and is ready to go Friday night because there's a big opportunity at stake for the Tigers.

Tekamah-Herman has to create some momentum and play a good game not only to win this one, but their next two games as well which look very winnable to me.

BRLD thumps Hartington Cedar Catholic in first game of season

The BRLD Football Team dominated Hartington Cedar Catholic in Friday night's season opener, winning 48-22 at home.

Will Gatzemeyer was a one man wrecking crew for the Wolverines, throwing for 206 yards and 3 touchdowns on 9-18 passing, and also rushing for 130 yards and three touchdowns on 17 carries. Kobe Lyons scored on a 69-yard TD run on his only rushing attempt of the night.

Jaxon Johnson hauled in 4 passes for 90 yards, and scored a touchdown.

Parker Paulson had 10 tackles while Johnson made 8 and Lucas Vogt and Dustin Burgett had 7 each.

BRLD totaled 433 yards of offense, including 227 on the ground.

The Wolverines gave the Trojans a good ole fashioned butt whoopin. I must say I was very surprised by this.

BRLD (1-0) takes on Ponca (1-0) on the road Friday night.

The Indians won 36-8 at Tekamah-Herman Friday night.

The win over the Trojans was great, but the Wolverines need to refocus themselves and get ready for a great battle Friday night.

Ponca is a very good football team, and it's never easy to play up there and win.

BRLD is very capable of going up there and getting the job done though..

If you dominate Hartington Cedar Catholic the way the Wolverines did then you can go into Ponca and win.

BRLD has to be very confident and has to go into Ponca believing they can win and dominate.

The Wolverines have to be careful about getting overconfident and big headed though.

BRLD has to keep an even keel and a level head, and must respect the Indians.

Ponca is a very good football team, and if the Wolverines don't play with the same purpose, energy, enthusiasm, will, determination, heart, and grit they played with against the Trojans then the game could turn out the way BRLD hopes it doesn't.

The Wolverines have to remain hungry, and must bring the same physical style of hard hitting, physical football they brought against Hartington Cedar Catholic.

BRLD has to be ready to bring the wood and lunch pail, and smack Ponca in the mouth.

The Wolverines have to play relentlessly for 4 quarters, and continue to turn heads and dominate.

I think BRLD has already captured the attention of many from around the state, but can they keep it going?

I think how the Wolverines handle success will tell the tale Friday night.

I think the game will either be close or BRLD will blow the Indians out of the water.

Oakland-Craig dominates Crofton in season opener

The Oakland-Craig Football Team was dominate in their season opener against Crofton Friday night, winning 32-6 at home.

Sophomore Jaron Meyer carried the ball 18 times for 113 yards and scored a touchdown. Jared Mulder was 8-13 for 82 yards passing.

Caden Nelson made a team-high 10 tackles while Ian Lundquist had 7.

The Knights amassed 263 yards of total offense, including 181 rushing.

Very strong performance on both sides of the ball from Oakland-Craig. I was very impressed with the Knights.

Oakland-Craig (1-0) takes on Hartington Cedar Catholic (0-1) on the road Friday night.

The Trojans were thumped 48-22 at BRLD this past Friday night.

Hartington Cedar Catholic may have been dominated by the Wolverines, but you can bet they will be hungry and motivated against the Knights Friday night.

Oakland-Craig has to come out ready to play, and can't take the Trojans lightly at all.

Oakland-Craig has already proven they are a strong, solid team this season with their season opening win, but the Knights will need to play just as well if not better in this one than they did in the first game of the season.

Meyer and Mulder need to have big games offensively, and the defense has to swarm to the football.

Oakland-Craig needs all 11 guys flying to the football and making plays.

The Knights have shown they are a great team, and I look for them to go into Hartington and come away with a victory.

It's hard to fathom the Trojans starting 0-2, but it's a record Hartington Cedar Catholic is staring right in the face.

You can bet the Trojans will play with a sense of urgency and purpose Friday night, and so Oakland-Craig has to be ready to smack Hartington Cedar Catholic in the mouth.

The Knights have to weather any and all storms the Trojans throw their way, and find a way to make big plays.

3rd down conversions will be critical in this one I feel as will the passing game.

I feel Oakland-Craig is a little more dynamic in the passing game, and that's where I give the Knights the edge.

The teams could very well be about even in the running game, up front, and in overall athleticism, but I feel the aerial attack of Oakland-Craig will be the difference in this one.

Being 2-0 heading into the Ponca game next week would be really big for this program.

We'll see if the Knights can get the job done Friday night.

North Bend Central wins season opener over Johnson County Central

The North Bend Central Football Team won 56-34 at home over Johnson County Central Friday night in the season opener.

The Tigers led 21-6 at the end of the first quarter, and won the second quarter 7-6 to take a 28-12 lead into the locker room.

The Thunderbirds won the 3rd quarter 16-14 to make it a 42-28 game at the end of three.

North Bend Central outscored Johnson County Central 14-6 in the 4th quarter to make up the final score.

Austin Endorf completed 31-47 passes for 497 yards (breaking a Class C-2 record for single game passing yards) and 6 TDs, a school record. 214 of those yards went to John Emanuel who had 10 catches. NBC had 114 yards on the ground with Jacob Ray leading the way with 60 of those yards. Defensively, Ben Rolenc, Gavin Peterson, and Jeremy Doernemann led the Tigers with 5 tackles each. North Bend Central did force 4 turnovers -- 3 fumble recoveries and 1 interception.

The Tigers racked up 608 yards of total offense, and gave up 468 yards, including 360 on the ground.

Head Coach Ryan Stieren says his team put together a complete game performance. "I really feel good about this win because we answered the bell when they got close and really pushed down on the gas to put the game away. JCC is a dangerous team with some really good football players -- it wasn't very pretty and we gave up way too many big plays but I am proud of our kids. Offensively, it was the best output since I have been here. Austin had a huge night but we only gave up 1 sack in 47 pass attempts and our receivers did a great job of getting yards after the catch so even though he broke the record, our whole team deserves credit for that. I also think that we ran the ball really effectively which will help us down the road."

Very strong offensive performance from North Bend Central, but some improvements are needed defensively, in  my opinion.

The Tigers (1-0) take on Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (0-1) on the road Friday night.

The Raiders lost 36-26 at Fremont Bergan in their season opener Friday night.

This should be a very good and intriguing battle.

It will be interesting to see if either defense can slow down either offense.

This game could very well be a shootout, and if that's the case I give the advantage to North Bend Central.

You can bet both teams and coaches will have great game plans, and that should make for a great game.

One could give the advantage to LVSS being they are C-1 and the game is in Hooper, but don't count out the Tigers.

North Bend Central comes into this one with a lot of confidence without a doubt, and should play a great game, win or lose.

Endorf 's performance last week was off the charts, and I look for him to have another good, strong performance again Friday night.

He will be going against a better team and defense this week so we'll see what he can do for an encore.

Endorf, Emanuel, and Ray are the keys to North Bend Central's offense, in my opinion.

All three need to have strong games for the Tigers to be successful I would say.

North Bend Central also has to be physical and has to create turnovers like they did against Johnson County Central.

Ball security is also imperative for the Tigers, in my opinion.

North Bend Central is going to have to play a very good game to come out on top there's no doubt about it.

The Tigers are definitely capable of moving to 2-0 though.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder falls at Fremont Bergan in season opener

The Logan View/Scribner-Snyder Raiders lost 36-26 at Fremont Bergan in the season opener Friday night.

The Knights jumped out to a 14-6 lead at the end of one, and outscored LVSS 14-8 in the 2nd quarter to lead 28-14 at halftime.

Bergan won the third quarter 8-6 to lead 36-20 at the end of three.

The Raiders shutout the Knights 6-0 in the 4th quarter.

Good effort from LVSS, but giving up 28 first half points really hurt the Raiders it appears.

Logan View/Scribner-Snyder (0-1) hosts North Bend Central (1-0) Friday night.

The Tigers won 56-34 at home over Johnson County Central this past Friday night.

North Bend Central's Austin Endorf set a school record with 6 passing touchdowns and the C-2 record for most passing yards in a single game.

The Raiders definitely have their hands full, and if giving up 36 points to Bergan was any indication of what LVSS's defense is like then Endorf could very well have another big game.

With that said, I look for Coach Sealey to have a game plan to try and slow down Endorf.

I feel the Raiders are a stronger team than the Thunderbirds, and will make things more difficult on Endorf than Johnson County Central did.

Endorf will probably get his yards and stats, but if LVSS can keep him from going wild on them they might be able to come away with the win.

The Raiders are at home too so that should really help their cause.

I think this will be a good game that goes either way.

I think it's too hard to predict a winner based on the two teams' first games, but I think we will learn a lot about both teams after this game.

I'm sure LVSS doesn't want to start the season off 0-2, especially with the schedule they have coming up.

There's no way around it this is a must win for the Raiders.

LVSS needs this game with Boys Town coming in next week.

The Raiders have to play with a sense of urgency and purpose in this one.

LVSS has to play as if there is no tomorrow and if their season is on the line because lose this one and the playoffs might be awfully difficult to make given the schedule that is on the horizon for the Raiders.

West Point-Beemer takes down Arlington in season opener

WEST POINT – It was a great start to the 2018 season for the West Point-Beemer football team, as they downed Arlington 39-22 on Friday, August 24 in West Point in a game heard on 107.9 The Bull.

The Cadet defense forced the Eagles into a three-and-out on the opening possession of the game, setting up shop at their own 22 yard line following the Arlington punt.

It wouldn’t take the Cadets long to score, as Kirby Hughes took the hand-off and raced 78 yards to pay-dirt on the first play from scrimmage. The PAT was good, making it 7-0 West Point-Beemer with 10:02 in the first quarter.

Arlington drove to the Cadet 36 on their next possession, but were eventually forced to punt. It would be for naught for the Cadets, who would fumble on their next play.

Arlington took over at the WPB 15 yard line, and was aided by a personal foul penalty, moving them to the seven. The Eagles would score on a two-yard run by Trevor Smailys. The PAT tied the game at 7-7 with 5:33 in the first.

From this point on, the Cadets took control of the game.

West Point-Beemer took over on the own 40, marching the distance on a drive that was capped off by a one-yard QB sneak from Jesus Barragan. The PAT was no good, making it 13-7 Cadets with 3:23 in the first.

Arlington fumbles on their next drive, setting up WPB at the Eagle 12. Barragan would take it to the house for the second time, this time on a 12-yard option keeper. The PAT was again no good, making it 19-7 Cadets with 2:20 in the first.

Arlington would make it all the way down to the Cadet 11-yard line before they were turned away on fourth down.

It would take West Point-Beemer one play for their next score, as Barragan connected with Gage Vance for an 89-yard scoring strike. The PAT was good, making it 26-7 Cadets with 10:57 in the second.

West Point-Beemer would score once more before halftime, taking over on their own 38 after an Arlington punt. The drive was emphasized by a 19-yard touchdown run from Blake Anderson. The PAT was good, and with 5:49 left in the second, West Point-Beemer led 33-7.

This would go on to be the score at halftime.

The Cadets started the second half in excellent field position, thanks to a great kick return by Ben Vander Griend that set them up at the Arlington 20. Jesus Barragan would record his third rushing touchdown of the evening, this one from nine yards out. The PAT was good and the Cadets led 39-7 with 9:55 in the third.

That would end the scoring for West Point-Beemer. Arlington went on two score twice more, a one-yard run by Logan Kirk with 5:24 in the third, making it 39-14 Cadets.

The final score came with eight seconds left in the game. The Eagles capped off a 90-yard drive with a two-yard run from Isaac Foust. The two-point conversion was good, making the score West Point-Beemer 39, Arlington 22, which would be the final.

What a great, solid effort from the Cadets. West Point-Beemer was explosive and dynamic on offense, and really got after things on both sides of the ball.

The Cadets move to 1-0 on the season and travel to Boys Town (0-1) on Friday.

The Cowboys lost 33-7 at Wahoo Neumann this past Friday night.

Tough start to the season for Boys Town, although Neumann is always really good.

You can bet the Cowboys will be angry and out for revenge so West Point-Beemer has to be ready to bring it for 4 quarters.

The Cadets were really good Friday night, but I felt like they could of played a more complete game.

West Point-Beemer made a lot of big plays and put Arlington away, but you can't coast against a team like Boys Town.

Not saying the Cadets coasted against the Eagles, but West Point-Beemer has to be ready to bring the hammer and smackdown for 4 quarters against the Cowboys.

This would be a monumental win for the Cadets, and would show this year's team they can compete with and beat the big boys.

West Point-Beemer knocked off some big time teams last year so we'll see if the Cadets can continue their run of being a giant slayer.

Hughes, Barragan, and Vance need to have big games, and West Point-Beemer has to be physical at the line of scrimmage.

Boys Town probably has a lot of speed and athleticism so the Cadets have to try and limit the big chunk plays and contain the Cowboys as much as possible.

I fully expect this game to come down to the wire, and for West Point-Beemer to trade blows with Boys Town throughout the game.

Going into Omaha and coming away with a win would be a big statement for the Cadets.

West Point-Beemer can definitely do it, and what bigger stage to showcase West Point-Beemer Football than at Boys Town Friday night?

I think a lot of people that don't know about the Cadets will find out what they're all about come Friday night.

Stanton looking to rebound in 2018 after injury riddled season in 2017

Team: Stanton

Mascot: Mustangs

Colors: Orange and Black

Class: C-2

Head Coach: David Stoddard (5th season) (22-16 career record)

2017 record: 2-7

Returning Starters: 9 offense 8 defense

Overview:

The Stanton Mustangs look for better things this season after dealing with numerous injuries last year.

Stanton returns 9 starters on offense and 8 on defense, including Sutton Pohlman (6'0, SO RB/FS), Gauge Erickson (5'11, 170 JR FB/LB), Cage Goger (5'9, 175 SR RB/LB), Kadyn Fernau (5'9, 160 SR RB/CB), Sam Bates (6'6, 240 SR OL/DL), Ben Wilke (6'0, 190 JR OL/DL), Mason Bruggeman (6'2, 185 SO OL/DL), Zak Hansen (5'7, 150 SR WR/DB), Marcus Spotanski (6'1, 170 SR QB/DB), Moorghan Prusa (6'0, 155 SR TE/DB), Kelton Van Pelt (5'9, 150 JR RB/DB), and Alex Reese (5'10, 180 SR G/OLB).

Other returning letterwinners include Jackson Benson (5'9, 240 JR OL/DL), Nathan Arens (6'5, 235) SR TE/DL), who returns from injury after missing all of last year, Carter King (5'4, 140 FR RB/LB), Trey Elbert (5'10, 160 SO TE/LB), Gauge Tighe (5'10, 170 SO FB/LB), and Christian Flood (5'9, 155 JR OL/LB).

33 kids are out for the team this year, according to 5th year Head Coach David Stoddard.

Stoddard has this to say about Pohlman. "Sutton was utilized as a RB, WR, QB, and FS as a freshman. He scored 6 total touchdowns and recorded 75 tackles and an interception. Pohlman will be one of the best underclassman in class C2 and will be utilized on offense all over the field to create mismatches. Look for him to also take over in the kickoff and punt return department."

Stoddard says Erickson is solid on both sides of the ball. "As a sophomore Erickson led the Mustangs in rushing and was 4th on the team in receiving. Gauge is an outstanding middle linebacker tallying 92 tackles last season. His combination of athleticism and tenacity make him a player to watch out for in 2018."

He looks for big things from Wilke up front. "Wilke had an outstanding sophomore season starting both ways on the offensive an defensive line. Only a junior, Wilke is strong, fast, and relentless. He will be one of the best OL in C2 as he can base, pull, and kickout with precision. At defensive end he has a motor that doesn't quit. His 39 tackles and 3 QB sacks lead all Mustang DL last season. More breakout success is expected of Wilke in 2018, as he will anchor both lines."

Stoddard expects Bates to make a big impact up front as well. "Bates was solid all year long in his first year on the offensive line. On the defensive line, he has great hands and footwork for someone his size. Look for Bates to be an every down OL/DL as he will be a force in 2018."

Stoddard says look for Goger to contribute on both sides of the ball. "Cade will serve as another everyday down running back for the Mustangs double wing attack. He started every game at outside linebacker and his speed/strength is a huge asset to the Mustangs. He has home run ability every time he runs the ball on offense and can hold down the edge or cover receivers on defense, he will also serve as the teams punter and add depth to the return game."

The Mustangs lost four seniors from last year. They are Beau Wilke, Ashton Flood, Ben Hansen, and Logan Kage.

It was definitely a different year last year than what Stanton is accustomed to, finishing just 2-7.

Bob Jensen of the Huskerland Prep Report Jensen expects the Mustangs to bounce back this season after going through a tough year last year. "The good news is this is a team that is going to have a lot of experience, I'm almost positive they've got like 9 starters back on both sides of the ball. And they're still young in spots. They've got a couple of young kids that are going to be exceptional football players. Sutton Pohlman is the kid that immediately comes to mind. I think he's just going to be a Sophomore. He's going to play running back for them. But where they're going to get a bump is in the line. They've got some quality linemen coming back."

Stoddard says the team feels pretty comfortable with things heading into the season. "It's kind of the same scenario where we need to stay healthy, but we have a lot of guys back at positions that they played last year. So they feel a lot more comfortable within the system. You can see the reps there are quicker. The vocabulary they seem to have that down on both sides of the ball."

Stoddard says the Mustangs were only suiting up about 22 players at the end of the season last year.

He adds there was great attendance in the weightroom. The team went to a two-day camp at Norfolk High, a one-day camp in Columbus, and an overnight camp at Concordia.

It certainly sounds like Stanton put the time and effort in during the offseason, and worked hard.

It appears the Mustangs were pretty active, and that's always a good sign heading into the season.

Stanton just has to stay healthy and they should be fine.

The Mustangs are in a very tough district, but there's no reason to think Stanton won't be right in the thick of things in the District race.

It could be a wild District in C2-3 this year that's for sure.

Season Outlook:

Stanton looks to get off on the right foot Friday night, when they start their season at David City.

I look for the Mustangs to start the season 3-0 before the tough contest at Fremont Bergan on September 14th.

If Stanton can win that game it should give them a ton of confidence heading into district play.

The Mustangs are in District C2-3 with Norfolk Catholic, Hartington Cedar Catholic, Ponca, Battle Creek, and Crofton.

Stoddard says the district is stacked and loaded. "We can't really look ahead towards the district, but we know that each district game we're going to have to play our best because like I said not only are there great athletes on those teams, they're always very solid coaching staffs, and they just do a great job overall."

Stoddard says a goal and the standard they want to set for the program is to make the playoffs.

I don't know if Stanton can beat the Knights or Trojans, but I feel Battle Creek, Crofton, and Ponca are beatable.

If the Mustangs can get 2 out of those 3 and go undefeated in non-district play it could be enough to get into the playoffs given the tough district schedule.

6-3 also may not cut it though. It might take 7-2 or better for Stanton to get in this year.

Either way I look for the Mustangs to be successful this year and get back to their winning ways.

We won't really know a lot about this team until the Bergan game as they may not be tested up until that point.

David City and North Bend Central could be challenging seeing as they've dropped from C-1, but I fully expect Stanton to take care of business in those contests.

I think you will see the Mustangs there in the end.

Stanton may not go undefeated or 8-1 and win the district, but the Mustangs should be a good, solid team that puts themselves in a good position for a playoff berth at the end of the regular season.

The Mustangs have to keep working hard and realize that the work is never done.

Stanton's players, and the seniors in particular, have to have fun and enjoy the ride.

High School Football only happens once in a lifetime, and these kids have to make the most of each and every day.

2018 Stanton Mustangs Football Schedule:

08/24/18 @ David City
08/31/18 Tekamah-Herman
09/07/18 @ North Bend Central
09/14/18 @ Archbishop Bergan
09/21/18 Battle Creek
09/28/18 @ Crofton
10/05/18 Ponca
10/12/18 Norfolk Catholic
10/19/18 @ Hartington Cedar Catholic

Tekamah-Herman looking for big senior class to lead them to good season

Team: Tekamah-Herman

Mascot: Tigers

Colors: Purple and Vegas Gold

Class: C-2

Head Coach: Graig McElmuray (4th season) (2-25 record)

2017 record: 1-8

Returning Starters: 9 offense 10 defense

Overview:

A lot of the freshmen who were pressed into action in 2015 due to injuries are now seniors, and Tekamah-Herman hopes their experience pays off in big ways this season.

Tekamah-Herman returns 4 senior linemen in Alex Skinner (6'1, 240), 4-year starter Alex Camp (6'2, 270), Derek Conety (5'11, 195), and Lucas Birdsong (6'1, 210). Cameron Douglas (6'1, 190) is added to the mix after missing last year.

Junior Clay Beaumont (6'0, 160) is back at QB for the Tigers, and junior Luke Wakehouse (5' 11, 190) and sophomore Cody Reidel (5'11, 155) both return at running back. Wakehouse is coming off an injury in which he dislocated his shoulder.

Senior Brandon Schram (5'9, 150) returns after being sidelined with an injury following an ATV accident after the Ponca game last year. Tyler Petersen (5'10, 130) returns at wideout for the Tigers as well.

Senior Cody Arnold (5'11, 280) and junior Chauncey Rogers (6'0, 170) are expected to compete for playing time on the offensive and defensive lines with Gage Drummond (6'0, 200), Cody Elliot (5'8, 160) and sophomore Garrison Potadle (5'11, 150) returning as starting linebackers.

Seniors Tristan Metzger (6'0, 170) and Mark Stark (5'10, 140) as well as Junior Jordan Derra (5'9, 130) are expected to lead Tekamah-Herman's secondary.

Head Coach Graig McElmuray says 13 seniors are on this year's team, and there are 4-5 senior linemen who could make an impact.

Big losses from last year include Matt Hawkins, Kyle Quick, Max Hansen, and Mack Braniff.

McElmuray says 25-30 kids took part in the offseason weightlifting program.

He adds it will be a great season if the Tigers stay injury free.

McElmuray says it's imperative Tekamah-Herman keeps kids healthy. "Last year there was a game where I have a Quarterback, and the kid that finished the game at Quarterback for us, he started out at offensive line. He played a little running back. We had to change jerseys midway through the game. And then he ends up being our quarterback at the end of the game because our quarterback ended up getting injured."

McElmuray says a lot of kids have done a really good job in the weightroom.

It sure sounds like the Tigers have a positive attitude, the right attitude. 

Tekamah-Herman just has to translate that hard work into on the field success.

Season Outlook:

Tekamah-Herman looks to be improved from a year ago, and is hoping all their experience leads to success.

The Tigers kickoff the season on Friday at home against Ponca. McElmuray says the Indians return some studs. "They've got #5 Evan Anderson back. And then they have their defensive ends and a couple linebackers back that will make things tough. They've played some really good football together over the last 3,4 years. And I expect them to be ready to go on Friday night." 

McElmuray says Ponca doesn't make mistakes, and waits for their opponents to make a mistake, and then capitalizes on it.

I would say Tekamah-Herman is going to need to play mistake free football to come out on top Friday night.

The Tigers are in a tough district with Oakland-Craig, BRLD, Yutan, Fremont Bergan, and Louisville, who make up C2-2.

McElmuray says all the teams in the district are good and solid. 

No game will certainly be easy for Tekamah-Herman this season, but if the Tigers can work hard everyday in practice and in games they can have a successful season, in my opinion.

This team has to wake up everyday with dreams and goals in mind, and go out there and make things happen.

Tekamah-Herman can do anything they put their minds to, they just have to keep working hard towards a common goal.

Staying healthy is going to be the key to this season for the Tigers though I would say.

Tekamah-Herman needs to be at full strength and have everybody when they take on some of these great teams, these juggernauts this season.

The Tigers have to go out there and capture every moment they can, and make as many memories as possible.

This is the last hurrah for these seniors, and so they might as well go out there with a bang and play some good ole fashion smashmouth, Northeast Nebraska Football all season long.

Tekamah-Herman is more than capable of doing big things this year, they just can't back down from anyone, and must remain positive and energetic at all times.

2018 Tekamah-Herman Tigers Football Schedule:

08/24/18 Ponca

08/31/18 @ Stanton

09/07/18 Twin River

09/14/18 Conestoga

09/21/18 @ Oakland-Craig

09/28/18 BRLD

10/05/18 @ Yutan

10/12/18 @ Louisville

10/19/18 Archbishop Bergan

BRLD looking for breakout campaign

Team: Bancroft-Rosalie-Lyons-Decatur

Mascot: Wolverines

Colors: Blue and Gold

Class: C-2

Head Coach: Dan Maresh

2017 record: 4-5

Returning Starters: 9 on offense and defense

Overview:

A lot of people are hyping up BRLD this season, and for good reason.

The Wolverines return Quarterback Will Gatzemeyer (5'9, 160), who threw for almost 1,000 yards and rushed for almost 600 with 6 TD's last season.

Junior Kobe Lyons (5'10, 190) is expected to start at running back while senior Bradley Marr (5'6, 145) is expected to contribute as well.

Lucas Vogt (5' 10, 160 SO WR) returns at wide receiver for BRLD as does Darwin Snyder (5'10, 150 JR).

The line consists of senior Dustin Burgett (6'0, 250), All-District Senior Guard Seth Totten (6'1, 280), Nick Ronnfeldt (6'3, 240 SR), Parker Paulson, Luke Kramer (6'0, 240), Jaxon Johnson (6'4, 235), and Sophomore Derek Peterson (5'9, 185).

Johnson, Burgett, Totten and Ronnfeldt will help make up the defensive line for the Wolverines. Peterson, Lyons, and Paulson will see action at linebacker, and Vogt, Gatzemeyer, and Snyder will help make up the defensive backfield.

Big losses from last year's team include Jacob Zuhlke and Tyler Kroger.

Top newcomers include running backs Lucas Ronnfeldt and Theodore Smith as well as freshman lineman Tyler Vavra.

Head Coach Dan Maresh says there was good commitment to the weightroom in the offseason on the players' part., and says they took part in 7 on 7, went to SMSU In Minnesota for a team camp.

Bob Jensen of the Huskerland Prep Report says the Wolverines will be tough up front. "BRLD has got some tremendous size in the line. Kids like Dustin Burgett and Seth Totten, big people. And they've got a playmaker at Quarterback in Will Gatzemeyer. They won 4 games last year. And I'm going to be honest with you...on one hand I can maybe count teams that I've heard more about than BRLD. From opposing coaches, people who expect the team to break through. And I do...I think the Wolverines are a Top 10 Team."

Jensen expects BRLD to make the playoffs.

The schedule is pretty tough for the Wolverines so maybe even going something like 5-4 at worst will get them into the playoffs.

BRLD definitely has their work cut out for them, but I fully expect the Wolverines to have a nice season.

We will find out if BRLD can live up to the hype.

I think they very well could, but there's a lot of traditional powers on the schedule, and it doesn't figure to be easy to say the least.

Season Outlook:

BRLD is looking for big things this season.

As I stated above though, the Wolverines have a tough schedule that starts with a home game on Friday against Hartington Cedar Catholic.

Maresh says the Wolverines are concerned about the running back and a 3-year lineman for the Trojans.

The lineman is Rex Becker and the running back is Jacob Keiser.

BRLD definitely has their work cut out for them against Cedar Catholic.

The Wolverines are going to have to play a great, physical game, and match the Trojans' tough play and physicality for 4 quarters to have a chance, in my opinion.

Hartington Cedar Catholic won last year's game 42-6 so this year doesn't certainly figure to get much easier for BRLD.

The Wolverines are definitely capable of competing and winning, it's just not going to be easy.

BRLD should only be focused on the Trojans right now, and I'm sure they are.

Maresh says his squad has to take things one game at a time. "We'll have to make sure we're ready to play every week. And hopefully we can stay on top of some injuries and get some good luck through there, and just survive each week. And just can't look ahead to anybody."

The Wolverines are in District C2-2 with Oakland-Craig, Fremont Bergan, Yutan, Tekamah-Herman, and Louisville.

Maresh says it's a tough district. "Yeah with Oakland and Bergan those two teams always have great tradition. Just every year you know they're going to give you one heck of a ball game. So we know we have to prepare for them, and then everybody else in the district too. There's just no nights off."

I don't honestly know if the Wolverines will start better than 2-2. I could see them getting off to a slow start and then reeling off a bunch of wins in district play, setting up a district showdown with Oakland-Craig at the end of the regular season.

I feel that game on October 19th could very well decide the district championship, although I'm sure Bergan and Yutan could very well have something to say about that.

I think BRLD has a chance at good success this year, but I'm being cautiously optimistic about them with their schedule.

2018 BRLD Wolverines Football Schedule:

08/24/18 Hartington Cedar Catholic
08/31/18 @ Ponca
09/07/18 @ Crofton
09/14/18 Norfolk Catholic
09/21/18 Yutan
09/28/18 @ Tekamah-Herman
10/05/18 Louisville
10/12/18 Archbishop Bergan
10/19/18 @ Oakland-Craig

Winnebago looking for winning season

Team: Winnebago

Mascot: Indians

Colors: Blue and White

Class: D-1

Head Coach: Adam James (10th season) (23-57 record)

2017 record: 3-5

Returning Starters: 7 on defense

Overview:

The Winnebago Indians are looking to find their way to a winning season in 2018.

The Indians will rely heavily on dual threat Quarterback T.J. Frenchman (6'1, 180), who passed for 800 yards, and rushed for 650 yards last season.

Winnebago will also look to Tyrese Gorrin (5'10, 160) to help carry the load at tailback. Gorrin rushed for 450 yards last year, according to 10th year Head Coach Adam James.

Junior Robbie Lovejoy (5'10, 215) returns at fullback for the Indians, and Senior Prosper Gilpin (6'1, 285) returns on the line.

James says the Indians are counting on Gorrin, Frenchman, Gilpin, and Lovejoy to help shoulder the load this year. "The ball's going to go through them on the offensive side of the ball. They're two kids that aren't going to come off the field. We have another running back who played a lot running back who's stepped up and is going to play guard this year with Robbie Lovejoy. He's also a linebacker for us. We expect a lot of big things out of him. We have a guard also in our nose guard Prosper Gilpin, he's a big boy. He's 6'1, 285. We look to try and run the ball behind him. He's going to make a lot of plays in the middle of the defense. And he's just a big playmaker who's going to be tough to block."

James says the team hopes teams have to double team Gilpin.

Big losses from last year include Lance Denney.

Newcomers who could make an impact for Winnebago this year include Ed Payer and Sophomore JT Bass, who is expected to start at tight end this season.

James says all starters attended the Hastings College Camp over the summer.

He adds the team feels it could be a good season if they get off on the right foot.

The Indians open up the season at Pender on Friday, and I feel that game is a tremendous opportunity for Winnebago.

The Indians haven't won at Pender in a long time, according to James, but perhaps that all changes Friday night.

I'll say one thing...I'm sure there will be plenty of energy and motivation among the Winnebago players.

The Indians are looking to take the next steps in their program, and it all starts with the Pender game Friday night.

Season Outlook:

Winnebago opens up the season at Pender Friday night then takes on Lutheran High Northeast on the road the second game of the year.

Two very tough games on the road to start the season, but to be the best you have to beat the best.

I feel the Indians's speed, size, and athleticism could make a huge difference and pay big dividends Friday night.

The Pendragons will be tough, especially at home, but don't be surprised if Winnebago goes in there and wins.

I feel defense will be the key to the game.

Pender lost a lot of offensive weapons from last year, and if the Indians can shut down or at least limit the Pendragons offensively, and Winnebago's offense can shine, then the Indians figure to stand a good chance of winning.

Winnebago has to play 4 quarters of football and cannot let up at any time.

If the Indians can put together a full game and make big plays, they should stand a good chance to win.

Winnebago has a pretty tough district, going up against the likes of GACC, Wakefield, and Wisner-Pilger. Homer and Omaha Nation are in District D1-4 too.

James says the Indians would like to keep taking steps forward as a program and help set things up for the younger kids in the future. "Last couple seasons we've been around 3-5. Our biggest goal this year is to get a winning record. Set the standard for some of our younger kids. We got a pretty good freshman and sophomore class sitting right now. And if we can get out there and get a good winning record out on there it will take us right into the offseason we'll make good things happen for the future of Winnebago Football."

The Indians aren't eligible for the playoffs being their enrollment is that of an 11-man team, but this is still a big season with a lot of potential for Winnebago.

If the Indians can have success on the gridiron I would think it would lead to good things on the hardwood this winter.

Winnebago has had very successful boys basketball teams in the past, and if the Indians can get the football program going I think that will only help them in basketball and in any other sports they play, and also in life in general.

This game and this season has so much meaning for Winnebago from a life standpoint I'm sure.

2018 Winnebago Indians Football Schedule:

08/24/18 @ Pender

08/31/18 @ Lutheran High Northeast

09/07/18 Laurel-Concord-Coleridge

09/21/18 Homer

09/28/18 @ Wisner-Pilger

10/05/18 Omaha Nation

10/12/18 @ Wakefield

10/19/18 Guardian Angels Central Catholic

Pender hoping to remain competitive despite low numbers

Team: Pender

Mascot: Pendragons

Colors: Red and White

Class: D-2

Head Coach: Andy Welsh (4th season)

2017 record: 4-6 (lost to Johnson-Brock in second round of playoffs)

Returning Starters: 2

Overview:

The Pender Pendragons drop from D-1 to D-2, but still hope to be successful despite only having 17 kids out for the team this year.

Pender returns just two starters in seniors Jaydon Jump (5'10, 225 RB/LB) and Sam Mailoux (6'6, 195 WR/LB).

Top newcomers include Lucas Timm, Larry McManigal (6'1, 180), Dylan Vogt (5'10, 170), who is expected to start at tailback for the Pendragons this season, as well as starting wide receiver Jaxon Maise, and Jaxon Mrsny.

Others expected to contribute for Pender this season are freshman Caleb Trimble (5'10, 145) and senior Gabe Perez (5'10, 230).

Big losses from last year include Brady Oliver, Jared Tyrell, Tyler Nelson, and all linemen.

The Pendragons certainly have a lot of guys to replace this year, but I feel there's still a lot of skill and talent on this team.

4th year Head Coach Andy Welsh says Welsh says the Pendragons only went to one camp this year due to the runs the Junior and Senior Legion Baseball Teams made.

Pender has dropped to D-2 due to enrollment numbers. "And we know we're going to go through this lull here at Pender for probably two cycles. Probably this year and the following three years. It's something that obviously we needed to have happen with our boy enrollments. We would not be able to compete at the D-1 level this year probably with only having 17 boys out for football," Welsh said.

Welsh says Pender simply doesn't have the numbers in the school right now.

I guess all the Pendragons can do is make the best of the situation and do their best to sustain the level of play they've had the last few years.

Pender has had nice seasons the last few years, and I don't see why that can't and won't continue this year as well.

I think dropping to D-2 gives the Pendragons a much better chance to compete than if they were in D-1 not just from an enrollment standpoint, but also from the standpoint of size and athleticism.

I feel Pender will be at an advantage in Class D-2 having played D-1 ball in the past.

Bob Jensen of the Huskerland Prep Report projects the Pendragons to win something like 4 games and make the playoffs, and I feel that is very doable for Pender this season.

Season Outlook:

Pender has some challenging, yet winnable games on the schedule this year, in my opinion.

The Pendragons open up the season at home against Winnebago Friday night. The same Indians team that upset Pender 60-42 in Winnebago last season.

Welsh says the Indians are a tough draw. "Well they're going to be an athletic team. They'll be good. They got a D-lineman up there that's going to wreak some havoc. The Prosper Gilpin kid. He's going to be a handful. I don't know if you can block him so we'll have to find a way to get around him I guess. They have a returning Quarterback. T.J. Frenchman... good player, really athletic. He's going to make a lot of plays. And they're just pretty athletic across the board."

Welsh says there's some familiarity and unfamiliarity with the teams in their district.

Pender is in District D2-2 with Clarkson/Leigh, Emerson-Hubbard, Mead, Cedar Bluffs, and Omaha Christian Academy.

Welsh says the Pendragons are very familiar with the first two teams, but have never played the latter 3 before.

I think that makes for a very exciting season.

It's always fun to play new opponents no doubt.

I would think that seeing the same teams and programs year in and year out would get to be a little old after a while.

New opponents bring new energy and blood without a doubt, and I fully expect Pender to be up for their new foes this coming season.

Renewing the "rivalry" with Emerson-Hubbard, if you want to call it that, figures to be very intriguing, especially given all the non football co-op talks between the two schools this past offseason.

A road trip to Randolph on September 14th appears to be the most tricky non-district game on the schedule one could say, but it should help prepare the Pendragons for district play at the very least.

I think 4-4 or 5-3 is possible and about right for Pender this year.

I say the Pendragons do no worse than 3-5.

I really think being a D-1 school in the past will really benefit Pender against D-2 competition this season.

2018 Pender Pendragons Football Schedule:

08/24/18 Winnebago
09/07/18 @ Homer
09/14/18 @ Randolph
09/21/18 Clarkson/Leigh
09/28/18 @ Cedar Bluffs
10/05/18 @ Mead
10/12/18 Emerson-Hubbard
10/18/18 Omaha Christian Academy

Clarkson/Leigh looking for young talent to lead them to successful season

Team: Clarkson/Leigh

Mascot: Patriots

Colors: Red, Blue, Gray

Class: D-2

Head Coach: Jim Clarkson (19th season) (88-88 career record)

2017 record: 3-6 (lost to Howells-Dodge in first round of playoffs)

Returning Starters: 4 offense 5 defense

Overview:

The Clarkson/Leigh Patriots figure to be young, but talented this season.

The Patriots return 4 offensive and 5 defensive starters from last year's 3-6 playoff team.

The returners include seniors Cort Pokorny (6'1, 175 OL/LB), John Langhorst (5'10, 205 OL/DE), and Travis Stanley (5'7, 160 RB/DB), as well as junior Isaak Wiese (6'0, 150 RB/TE/DB), and Sophomore Tommy McEvoy (6'2, 185 RB/S).

Other returning letterwinners include junior Kobe Indra (5'10, 220 OL/DL), and sophomores Lance Paprocki (5'7, 130 QB/DB), Layne Krutz (5'10, 270 OL/DL), and Austin Sayers (5'11, 240 OL/DL).

Big losses from last year's team include Jacob Gall, Haden Held, and Anthony Bruhn.

Head Coach Jim Clarkson says the whole team went to the Hastings College Team Camp in mid-June and 7 or 8 kids to the individual South Dakota State camp, late in June. He adds the Patriots also played a little 5 on 5 league with Osceola-High Plains and Howells-Dodge.

The Patriots drop down from D-1 to D-2. "It probably couldn't of came at a better time. We are kind of the poster child school for that as far as our girls will be C-2 in Volleyball, and we'll be D-2 in Football. We don't have a lot of boys in the hallways right now," Clarkson said.

Clarkson says moving to D-2 should allow his team to be more competitive than if they were in D-1 with some teams in their same situation.

Bob Jensen of the Huskerland Prep Report expects the Patriots to do well this year. "Well they're going to be better. And that's just it. They have some experience coming back. And the thing is is that it's a program that's done its fair share of winning, and last year...had to maybe take a step back to take a step forward. But again playoffs the team always manages to find a way to be in the playoff conversation, and I would suspect again that to be the case."

Clarkson/Leigh has made the playoffs every year they've been Clarkson/Leigh, and I look for that to be the case this year as well.

The Patriots might lack leadership and experience, but what they lack in those areas they should make up for with young, raw talent.

I feel Clarkson/Leigh will only grow and develop as the season progresses, and play their best football at the end of the season.

I think the Patriots will win their fair share of games this year, and do enough to get in the playoffs.

I think this is a dangerous team that could spring an upset in the playoffs. I think Clarkson/Leigh will be that team people don't want to see once the postseason rolls around.

Season Outlook:

It figures to be another playoff season for the Clarkson/Leigh Patriots.

The Patriots get their season started on Friday, when they host Howells-Dodge.

Clarkson says there's a lot of excitement and anticipation surrounding the game. "It's a fun rival. It's the Bacon Bowl. So we have some game t-shirts made up for it. And a lot of excitement in both towns, both communities. So should be a fun game and we're looking forward to it, and getting after it. And hopefully we'll put a little better showing than last time on the field with them that's for sure."

The Patriots were shutout 46-0 by the Jaguars in the playoffs last year.

This will be the 3rd straight game for Clarkson/Leigh against Howells-Dodge dating back to last year.

Clarkson says a lack of depth and experience could hinder his team this season. "Should be an interesting year. We will be very young, so we having some growing pains early, but we have some good team chemistry and some hard working dudes that we hope will have a good year. Depth will be a major issue so it is imperative that we stay healthy. If we do stay healthy we could be competitive in our district."

The Patriots are in District D2-2 with Pender, Emerson-Hubbard, Mead, Cedar Bluffs, and Omaha Christian Academy.

I look for Clarkson/Leigh to have a good shot at winning the majority of those contests.

Mead is always tough, and Emerson-Hubbard figures to be solid, plus Pender could surprise some people as well.

I think being Class D-1 for so long is going to pay its dividends for the Patriots.

That won't be a factor when they play Pender and Howells-Dodge, but otherwise it figures to factor in.

Clarkson/Leigh needs someone to step up and be a leader.

The Patriots have a lot of youth on this team, but someone needs to step up and be vocal...be a voice on the field.

Perhaps that's something McEvoy could do.

I am willing to be he is a candidate to be a team leader.

It should be a fun season and a good game against the Jaguars on Friday.

I'm sure Clarkson/Leigh is jacked, psyched, pumped, and ready to go for that game and the season in general.

The Humphrey St. Francis game figures to be tough in the second game of the season, but the Patriots have a bye week the week before so that should help.

2018 Clarkson/Leigh Patriots Football Schedule:

08/24/18 Howells-Dodge
09/07/18 @ Humphrey St. Francis
09/14/18 Parkview Christian
09/21/18 @ Pender
09/28/18 @ Omaha Christian Academy
10/05/18 Cedar Bluffs
10/12/18 Mead
10/19/18 @ Emerson-Hubbard

Howells-Dodge hoping for successful campaign in 2018

Team: Howells-Dodge

Mascot: Jaguars

Colors: Green, Black, Silver

Class: D-1

Head Coach: Mike Speirs (23rd season) (210-42 record)

2017 record: 11-1 (lost to East Butler in State Semifinals)

Returning Starters: 3 offense 2 defense

Overview:

The Howells-Dodge Football Team hopes to retool and reload after getting hit hard by graduation last year.

The Jaguars bring back 3 offensive and 2 defensive starters in seniors Kade Hegemann (6'0, 180 TE/LB, Lane Hegemann (6'4, 220 G/DE), and Dylan Horejsi (5'11, 175 RB).

Others likely to see the field and contribute for the Jaguars this season include seniors Josh Brester (6'0, 155 RB/DB), Carter Jensen (6'1, 210 OL/DL), Mitch Yosten (6'3, 195 SR OL/DL), and juniors Luke Rocheford (6'0, 155 RB/DB), Charlie Dvorak (5'10, 165 RB/DB), Darrin Pokorny (6'1, 155 QB/DB), Trevor Schumacher (6'1, 175 TE/LB), Carter Throener (5'11, 210 OL/DL), and Kyle Pickhinke (6'0, 285 OL/DL).

One big loss from last year's team is Quarterback Dax VanLengen.

Head Coach Mike Speirs says the team had a lot of fun at the Chadron State Camp over the summer. "We had a good summer. The kids put in a lot of time and effort in the weightroom. And that hopefully will just translate into the fall. And we actually just do one camp. We go out to Chadron State. And that was relatively early this year. We were out there June 4th, 5th, and 6th. And it's kind of become an annual thing. I guess we've been going out there now for 20 some years. That's kind of where we go. The kids look forward to it. And it's an awful lot of fun. I grew up out in that area so it's kind of my home neck of the woods I guess you could say. But it's kind of become our thing is to go out there to Chadron. We're one of the teams that travels the farthest to get there. And the kids just enjoy the heck out of that."

Speirs says the team also did some 5 on 5 stuff with a couple other schools this summer.

It will be interesting to see how the Jaguars fare this year.

I think Horejsi will have a big season, and I look for Lane and Kade Hegemann to create plenty of running lanes for him.

I think backs like Rocheford and Dvorak will compliment Horejsi nicely.

I feel like there's a lot of potential in the linemen too.

Speirs says the battle up front is going to be key. "I think for this team to have a chance to have success we've got to develop some consistency in our offensive line. We're going to be a run first team, that's kind of what we do, what we've always done, and when our kids up front understand where we're trying to go and what we're trying to do we're a lot better off."

Speirs says the Jaguars had to replace all 3 of their defensive backs from last season.

Bob Jensen of the Huskerland Prep Report says watch out for Lane and Kade Hegemann as well as Horejsi. "Kade Hegemann is one of those kids, he's just a perfect example of a great 8-man football player. He's not going to wow you with his size or anything like that, but the kid is just a bulldog, and he's going to find a way to be in on every tackle or so it would seem. Lane is going to be a real good piece of the line and I mean that. 220, 225. Dylan Horejsi is the running back that I think a lot of people know about because he's been a headliner for a couple of years now. And one thing about it, in the Howells-Dodge offense, they're going to want to run the ball a lot. And you can do a whole lot worse than handing the ball to him. The kid ran for like 1600 yards last year."

Jensen projects the Jaguars to win 6 or 7 regular season games and make the playoffs.

Season Outlook:

The Howells-Dodge Football Team has a really tough schedule this year.

The Jaguars open up with Clarkson/Leigh on the road on Friday.

Speirs says the game against the Patriots has a lot of meaning. "And ever since I've been here in Howells that's always been a battle no matter what the teams' records were that's been a battle because it's kind of a local rivalry. We kind of started it as a rivalry game. It's now we call it Bacon Bowl. And we have a traveling trophy. And the kids the last couple of years have gotten into it. Our kids talk about it all the time. About that we got to do everything we can to win the Bacon Bowl."

The Jaguars host Guardian Angels Central Catholic in Week 2 in action that can be heard on 107.9 the Bull.

After that it's a tough game at Wakefield then back-to-back home games against Lutheran High Northeast and Neligh-Oakdale to open up district play.

Games against Madison and Laurel-Concord-Coleridge also figure to be tough as those two squads used to be 11-man teams.

There certainly aren't many cakewalks on the schedule for the Jaguars this season.

The only game that appears to be a for sure win is the Elkhorn Valley Game.

The Falcons were 0-8 last year.

I think the Jaguars will be fine and go on to have a good season, but it won't be easy.

Speirs says a lack of experience and leadership could be his team's downfall this year. "With only 3 returning starters and only a few others who have game experience, our weakness is definitely game experience. An honest assessment of our team is that unless those returners step up their leadership, we may struggle this fall. Our schedule is difficult enough with what could be expected to be 3 of the top teams in D-1 in our first 5 games. Our team strength level is low and that is a major weakness at this time."

Howells-Dodge is in District D1-5 with the Dragons, Bears, Warriors, Eagles, and Falcons.

The Jaguars certainly have their work cut out for them this year, but I still expect them to be good.

I don't know if Howells-Dodge will be as good as they were last year, but I still expect the Jaguars to do what Bob Jensen thinks, and that is win a good share of their games and make the playoffs.

I feel GACC and Lutheran High Northeast could be losses, but feel Howells-Dodge could perhaps beat the Eagles, and win the rest of their regular season games.

Wakefield could be very tough too, can't sleep on them, but I look for the Jaguars to find a way to beat them and Neligh-Oakdale.

I don't see the Jaguars finishing any worse than 4-4.

2018 Howells-Dodge Jaguars Football Schedule:

08/24/18 @ Clarkson/Leigh
08/31/18 Guardian Angels Central Catholic
09/07/18 @ Wakefield
09/21/18 Lutheran High Northeast
09/28/18 Neligh-Oakdale
10/05/18 @ Elkhorn Valley
10/12/18 Laurel-Concord-Coleridge
10/19/18 @ Madison

Guardian Angels Central Catholic expecting big things again in 2018

Team: Guardian Angels Central Catholic

Mascot: Bluejays

Colors: Blue and White

Class: D-1

Head Coach: Dave Ridder (16th season)

2017 record: 8-1 (Lost to Pender in 1st round of Playoffs)

Returning Starters: 4 offense 4 defense

Overview:

The Guardian Angels Central Catholic Football Team brings back half their starters from last year's team that went 8-1, and was upset by Pender in the 1st round of the playoffs.

Senior All-State Running Back Jared Minnick (6'0, 185) returns for the Bluejays as does junior tailback Noah Hass (5'10, 160). Sophomores Cash Meier (5'9, 180) and Cody Steffen (6'0, 170) also look to be in the mix in the backfield for GACC.

Jadyn Smeal (5'10, 160) returns at wide receiver while the line is led by Junior Casey Doernemann (6'5, 260) with Blake Pojar (6'0, 190) returning at tight end.

Senior Will Kreikemeier (5'10, 200) and Junior Mitch Peatrowsky (6'0, 220) are also expected to see playing time up front for the Bluejays, and sophomore Ben Ulrich (6'3, 170) is expected to contribute at tight end.

Hass, Minnick, and Smeal will lead things at linebacker for GACC, and Pojar, Meier, and Ulrich will play safety.

Doernemann and Peatrowsky will help anchor the defensive line.

Andrew Franzluebbers (5'11, 210) and Tyson Snodgrass were lost to injury at the South Dakota Fall Contact Camp.

Jack Baumert is out as a senior this year.

Head Coach Dave Ridder says there's some good young talent on the team this year. He expects the Bluejays to be strong at linebacker and at defensive end.

When asked if the Pender loss adds fuel to the fire and if the Bluejays are using it as motivation, Ridder said no. "Injuries played a key part in that game, and a few other things happened that are out of our control so we don't mention that game because it's obviously in the past, and we need to build on the experience we have, and we have a lot of kids coming back as far as talent wise and also experience, which is very, very vital, in my opinion, when it comes to Football."

Bob Jensen says the loss to the Pendragons really impacted the Bluejay program. “That upset to Pender that kind of rocked the program a little bit. When you’re used to winning and you’ve been a state champion and what not, you don’t expect to lose a game like that. And I suspect that’s truly you talk about fueling the fire and what not I am sure that’s in the back of those kids’s head, and trying to maybe make good if you will.”

I look for GACC to have another spectacular season and a banner year.

I think the Bluejays have what it takes to win it all this year if they stay injury free.

It should be another great season for GACC. I think Minnick will run wild against teams, and show everyone why the Bluejays are a dynasty.

The first two games of the season are tricky though. Back-to-Back road games at East Butler and Howells-Dodge.

Should be interesting and intriguing matchups for sure. I think being a veteran team GACC will be ready to go against both squads.

Season Outlook:

Guardian Angels Central Catholic looks to reload and make another run at another state championship this season.

As I mentioned in the Overview, the first two games against defending State Champion East Butler and State Semifinalist Howells-Dodge figure to be difficult, especially since both contests are on the road.

Wisner-Pilger could also be a tough game on September 21st. Wakefield figures to be another tough game as well.

The Bluejays are in District D1-4 with the Gators, Trojans, Winnebago, Homer, and Omaha Nation.

I look for GACC to have another shot to go undefeated again in the regular season.

If the Bluejays can win their first two games I think they have a great chance to go undefeated through 8 games.

Ridder says his team is focusing on one thing at a time. "It's always about trying to win every down, and then win every quarter, and then win the game. That's always been our goal. Obviously that's something that doesn't happen all the time, but if you try to take everything one play a time it kind of takes a little pressure off the kids as far as who they're playing. Just do your technique and do your job and if you do your best that's all we can ask."

I think a more challenging district is good news for GACC.

I feel this schedule will really benefit the Bluejays in the long run, and help prepare them for a deep playoff run in October and November.

Don't be surprised if GACC makes it back to Memorial Stadium this season.

The Bluejays are a great team and program, and as long as Minnick stays healthy, GACC should have a chance to do some great things.

I look for Minnick to bulldoze his way and run over people with authority.

I feel he will be an unstoppable force for the Bluejays this season if healthy.

It takes more than one player to win a state championship though, and you can't forget about players like Smeal and Doernemann.

The whole team really though as Football is a team sport.

The East Butler Game will be played next Friday.

2018 Guardian Angels Central Catholic Bluejays Football Schedule:

08/24/18 @ East Butler
08/31/18 @ Howells-Dodge
09/07/18 Omaha Brownell Talbot
09/21/18 Wisner-Pilger
09/28/18 @ Omaha Nation
10/05/18 Wakefield
10/12/18 Homer
10/19/18 @ Winnebago