by Jon Matthews, Sports
CENTRAL REBELS
After a standout 2023 season, the Central Rebels are gearing up once more, eager to stamp their authority on the gridiron. Every football team’s talk in the offseason revolves around their returning stars, and in this regard, the Rebels are flush with talent.
Names like Jobe Bryant, Jaxon Jones, and Casen Murphy are not just returning, but they’re expected to take their game to the next level. And with the recent addition of Brayden Berry, the Rebels’ arsenal of skilled players looks deeper than ever.
But it’s not just about the headline grabbers. Central’s legacy lies in its gritty, hard-nosed players who bring an unyielding offensive and defensive attack to the table. This tenacity is what has historically set the Rebels apart.
Coach Schweiss, known for his no-nonsense approach, has been vocal about his expectations for the upcoming season. “I genuinely believe opposing teams will struggle against our defense, whether they’re trying to move the ball in the air or on the ground,” he stated in a recent interview. “We’ve got a seasoned, athletic, and downright talented defense that’s ready to prove itself.”
Kicking off the year, the Rebels are not just the talk of the Parkland but are also being spotlighted as one of the premier teams in Missouri high school football. Their season opener against Poplar Bluff promises to be a clash of the titans. Given Poplar Bluff’s commendable squad from last year, this game is bound to set the tone for the rest of the Rebels’ season.
So, for all the football enthusiasts out there, make sure you have the Central Rebels on your watchlist this season. If early indications are anything to go by, the Parkland’s finest are primed to provide a highlight reel that’s second to none. Buckle up, because the Central Rebels’ football journey in 2023 promises to be one for the ages!
NORTH COUNTY RAIDERS
In the realm of high school football, the North County Raiders have carved a name synonymous with determination and resilience. Over the past seasons, from state playoffs to clinching District Championship titles, they’ve showcased a brand of football that’s hard to overlook.
While the current Raiders’ exploits have garnered attention, longtime fans will fondly reminisce about the ’90s era, a golden age where the Raiders made frequent state playoff appearances. That winning legacy continued into the 2000s, cementing their status in Missouri football folklore.
However, every team faces its hurdles. A string of coaching changes and a phase of downturn had the Raider faithful yearning for former glories. Enter Brian Jones, the head coach who has been instrumental in resurrecting the Raider spirit. Under his stewardship, North County has not just climbed out of the doldrums but is once again in contention for top honors.
Despite the departure of a few stalwarts, the team is poised for success, thanks to the next generation of Raider leaders. All eyes will be on Zane Huff, expected to play a pivotal role in the offense. Add to the mix Henry Allebach, who’ll be calling the shots under center, and you’ve got a squad brimming with potential.
The curtain raiser for the Raiders’ season is no ordinary game. They’re pitted against their longtime adversaries, the Farmington Black Knights. Both sides have been in stellar form, displaying a brand of football that’s both tactical and thrilling. With growing talent evident on either side of the ball, the clash promises to be an early litmus test for the Raiders.
So, as the 2023 season dawns, the Parkland awaits another chapter in the Raiders’ storied journey. With a blend of legacy and renewed vigor, the North County Raiders are not just participating – they’re on a quest for domination. Watch this space; the Raiders are coming!
FARMINGTON KNIGHTS
There’s something brewing in the heart of Farmington. Historically blessed with top-tier talent, last year’s showcase of remarkable underclassmen furthered this tradition.
With many of those young athletes now seasoned in the high-stakes world of Varsity football, they are primed to play pivotal roles in the Knights’ quest for glory. Leading the charge on offense is Brett Drye, a dual-threat quarterback whose versatility keeps opposition defenses guessing. He’s ably supported by prodigies like Kaesen McClain, Jackson McDowell, and Connor Rice. These multi-positional players are the linchpin of an offense that promises to be both dynamic and relentless.
However, focusing solely on their offense would be a grave oversight. The Knights’ defensive contingent is a force to be reckoned with. Their speed across the field and a defensive line that marries physicality with athleticism means teams will think twice before plotting an advance against them.
The season kicks off with a home game against the formidable North County squad. This isn’t just another game; it’s a storied rivalry that has witnessed countless epic encounters. With the anticipation building, one can already envision the stands packed to the brim, and the electrifying atmosphere created by raucous student sections.
The whispers surrounding the Knights this season aren’t just about their potential success; they’re about the legacy this young team could leave behind. There’s an air of expectation, a sense that we might be witnessing the early stages of another golden era for Farmington Football. So, for those yearning for exhilarating football, keep your eyes peeled on the Farmington Knights – the future is now! SFH