Worth County is seeking to replace some big shoes from last year. The Tigers made a run at the state title game, finishing second. But they miss gamebreakers like Tyler New, Grant McIntyre, and Elias Alarcon from that squad, meaning younger players will have to step up.
The Tigers may go with two quarterbacks this year, as both Hayden Sanders and Brayden Stevens were sharing reps in practice. Both have similar skill sets and ability levels. Last year, when Tyler New was cramping up and had to come out of the game against Platte Valley, Hayden Sanders stepped right in and moved the team down the field before Tyler came back in. Brayden Stevens quarterbacked a lot in junior high and threw a deep ball even then.
The position area that has improved the most since last year is at receiver, as several players have stepped up. Ryder Smyser and Karson Briner show a lot of size and speed at the receiver slot. Lance Runde has grown several inches and has shown that he had good hands in practice Tuesday. That allows Coach Jon Adwell to move Bo Collins onto the line, where he will join returners Carter Chapman and Ethan Lininger. While he hasn’t grown a lot sizewise, Bo has gained a lot more muscle each of his last two seasons, allowing him to be a force as a blocker. Toryn Privett, Franklynn Taute, Sawyer Thurman, and Brayden Murphy could also figure into the mix on the line.
The backfield is solid for the Tigers. Landon Wilmes is the starting halfback and has shown a knack for finding holes. Lucas Frisch has shown both size and speed. Cole Ruby could also see some time there.
Tuesday’s drills were without pads and mostly focused on relearning the plays. But one person that stood out for the defense was Jude Archer, who showed some newfound speed and a nose for the ball, picking three passes off and nearly getting a fourth.
The Tigers have 28 players out for varsity, and they will have a lot more out for junior high after playing the numbers game last year in junior high. Their first game will be against Platte Valley, which will be a team to beat again this year. They have built a huge front line on both sides of the ball and have turned it into a successful run. Mound City could do some damage if they build on their late run last year; they went from being one of the worst teams in the area to nearly knocking off South Holt in the playoffs.
Coach Adwell said that Albany and North Andrew were teams to watch in the conference, with King City showing a lot of improvement from last year.
The preseason jamboree is August 23rd at Worth County starting at 7 pm. Once again, Stanberry, King City, and Albany will be involved.
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