Quotes from Athletes on the 2022 Football Season
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OABCIG athlete Beckett DeJean
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we should be pretty good. We were pretty young this year so we should be pretty good next year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Spirit Lake is usually pretty good every year and ELC will be pretty good next year also.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Aaron Graves for sure.”
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Burlington offensive center Julian Perez-Hall
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel that our team can be successful next season as well, we just need to put in the work to get to that level. We are losing a lot of big contributors to our team.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The toughest team in our schedule will most likely be North Scott again, they have had a really good team these past few years, and I feel that they will again next year.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I don't know any specific players that stand out in our schedule, but there are a good number of good players in our schedule.”
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Benton running back Mason Dellamuth
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I’m sure the Bobcats will be another great team. They have some studs and a whole lot of potential for next year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I’m not quite sure who will be on the next schedule for us, but I know it’s always a dog fight against Vinton High School.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The best dude we played this season was 100% Marcus Beatty. The kid was an athlete and very hard to stop.”
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Southeast Polk running back Abu Sama
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like my football team is going to be great next season. We have lots of young talent that played on varsity and learned from the older athletes.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“To be honest, I don’t know who's going to be the toughest team or player next season, lots of teams are losing their star players because they are seniors.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“See above.”
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Albia athlete Lance Helm
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“How we do next year all depends on how much time we put into the weight room and off-season workouts. This greatly impacts our success.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I believe West Marshall will put up the toughest opponent because even though they lost some seniors they have good underclassmen to fill in.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Preston Pope from West Marshall. He is a great running back and never stops moving.”
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Humboldt offensive lineman Kaleb McCullough
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will be pretty solid, but we have to replace some key positions.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Nevada was pretty tough for us this year we made some mistakes that hurt us but still fought it out.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Aiden Hall was tough for us in the semifinals. Dude is a playmaker on both sides of the ball.”
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Mason City quarterback Kale Hobart
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“This next season of football will be a tough one with a lot of our great senior players gone. We will lose basically our whole offense and most of our defense. We are looking to rebuild and grind a lot this off season. I think we will develop and be a pretty good team. The competition we played was pretty good and next year it will be just as good. We’re looking to compete every game.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think the toughest team to play will be Waverly just because of how sound of a team they are. They developed together and have a ton of talent.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think one of the toughest players we will face is Asa Newsom. He was a big threat to our offense and laid some big hits on me. He seemed to be everywhere, and you could tell he was working crazy hard.”
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Woodward-Granger wide receiver Dane Polich
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like our team will succeed very well next season. We have a couple seniors that we will miss a lot, but we are confident in some of our underclassmen to fill those roles.
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our main focus will be Madrid week one, and take each game week by week.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Anyone is capable of making plays. It’s not a player that we face off against, it’s an entire team.”
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Benton athlete Easton Pfiffner
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“The end of this football season left a bad taste in our mouth and we can’t wait to compete again next year. I think we will have another solid year with high expectations.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Next year I think Davenport Assumption will be our toughest opponent, they have a good program just like us.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think Jackson Jaspers will be a tough opponent. He is also a sophomore and will probably have a good season.”
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Johnston quarterback Adrian Broadus
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel we should do really well and have a legit shot at making it to the dome for the first time in school history.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“We play a lot of competition but I feel Dowling will be the toughest. They always bring a good team.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Cooper Nicholson is a very good receiver and could cause havoc for our defense.”
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Benton tight end Will Shaw
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel if the guys that we got for next season continue to work hard and grow for next year we have the pieces to have another great season.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel that Davenport Assumption will be the best team we face next year and we will have to travel there and compete.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest individual player we face next year will most likely be Alex Mota from Marion.”
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Pella Christian quarterback Isaac Kacmarynski
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Our team will lose some key offensive threats and some big contributors on defense. But we will return our entire o-line and the majority of our defensive players. We also have a large junior class that will need to step up.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think that our game against Sigourney-Keota will be a big one. They beat us in a close one and we really want a win on the road at their place.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I am really bad at remembering names so none that I can think of.”
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West Fork athlete Sage Suntken
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Because we lost a lot of seniors, how next season will go is a mystery but I’m optimistic about it, we’ve got lots of talent coming back and I’m looking forward to it.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Newman Catholic next year will be pretty tough but not sure who all is returning for some of the other teams.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Individually Max Burt from Newman Catholic will be tough to play against.”
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Iowa City Regina middle linebacker Ronan Poynton
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we have a lot of potential, as well as a lot to improve upon from last year, we’re losing a lot of important guys but that means there’s a lot of opportunities for these younger guys to step up, it also allows me to be a bigger leader.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I haven’t really looked into who we’re playing next year but I feel like we can beat anyone if we play as one unit.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Last year we played against two division one athletes (Jahsiah Galvon and Nolan DeLong) and Nolan will be back next year so he’ll be a tough test for us.”
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Iowa Valley quarterback Evan Kearney *
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we have a good chance to make a run at the playoffs.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Looking ahead WACO and New London both return some studs and will be a problem.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Cam Buffington is obviously great and has insane play recognition. Simeon Reichenbach is an extremely talented runner as well.”
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Muscatine running back Ty Cozad
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like next year will be a great year because we have a lot of talent and returning starters.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Every team on our schedule is tough, being in 5A you can’t underestimate anyone.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Tate and Tyge Lyon, Rusty Vanwetsinga are always hard to go against.”
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Boone running back Landon Davis
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Next season we are hoping to have at-least a winning season.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I would say our toughest competition on our schedule is Indianola.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think the toughest individual player on our schedule is Bennet Brueck from Indianola. He’s a very skilled and mobile quarterback.”
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Glenwood quarterback Tate Mayberry
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“The growth this team has made since this season is already insane. Don’t be surprised when Glenwood football is on the front of your newspaper next fall.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“We’re lucky enough to play Lewis Central (4A state champs) Harlan (3A state champs) and a few other teams that made great runs in the playoffs. I wouldn’t count any of the other teams we play out either, we love competing and we want to play the best.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Harlan and LC both have some great athletes but I’d say Harlan’s Aiden Hall is all around the toughest guy we play. Has the build of a D-end but moves like he’s and Olympic sprinter.”
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Benton athlete Aidan Gallery
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have confidence in the way our team can perform next year and have high hopes.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel like either assumption or Marion will be our toughest opponents.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Alex Mota will for sure be the toughest individual player for us this year.”
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Fremont-Mills athlete Payten Van Houten
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We got some holes to fill, but I know we’ll have a great season and make a good run in the playoffs.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“CAM, Audubon, and Lenox will be very good games. CAM and Audubon lost almost all of their offensive production, whereas Lenox is bringing back both their RBs which is why I think Lenox will be the most superior opponent we will play this upcoming season.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Lenox running back Isaac Grundman is an outstanding player, but I believe that CAM’s offensive lineman Gavyn Jessen will be the best player we play.”
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Martensdale St Mary’s running back Kade Mullins
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I believe our team next season has a chance of being the best team in our conference again, making it farther into the playoffs, and being one of the best teams in Iowa 8-man football.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our team’s biggest competitor will be the first team we play, because after that first game, the tone will be set for the rest of the season.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I don’t believe there is one.”
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Aplington-Parkersburg wide receiver Adam Schipper
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Our goals for next year are really big, so if we just put in the work I think we can accomplish anything.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Probably Dike-New Hartford. They always have a really good team and are coached extremely well so it’ll definitely be a very tough game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Dike and Denver both have really good running backs, and South Hardin has a good receiver that’ll be a tough matchup.”
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Tripoli running back Rowan Carlson
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have very high expectations next season we will bring back around 75% of starters from last year. Lots of our juniors and sophomores are in the weight room consistently. I believe we can go far next season if our team is ready to put in the work.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I believe Turkey Valley will be a great team for us to fight next year. They are graduating a decent amount of kids but not too many. They were a good team last year and it should be a good game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think Noah Hanson, the QB from Turkey Valley will be our best opponent. He is a versatile player who can do a lot of things.”
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Iowa City High quarterback Quinton Tran
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have confidence that we will go all the way.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I would say Dowling, they are very well coached and are very disciplined.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Probably Jaxon Smolik, strong arm, very talented.”
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Albia running back Gage Oddo
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like if we are all bought in, we can be a very dangerous team. Just all have to be bought in.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“West Marshall will be for sure.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Probably Kacen Boyer from Iowa Falls. I respect his game.”
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North Polk running back Brady Miller
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel that we have a big upside this next year. We lose some key players on both sides of the ball, but we have a very talented sophomore class with some guys that had a big role for us last season.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“In my mind the toughest team we will face this year will be Nevada.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“There are a couple players that we will face this year that could be put into this category, but the toughest player we will face is probably Nevada’s TE Carson Rhodes.”
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Aplington-Parkersburg offensive center Carson Troyna
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We have our eyes set to the top for next season. As long as we work hard and do the right things we have no reason not to be where we want to be.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I believe Dike-New Hartford will be our toughest competition next season. They are coached very well and always reload.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Dike and Denver have running backs that are tough to bring down, so I think those matchups will be great to see play out.”
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Pleasant Valley running back Tyge Lyon
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think our team will do great next year. We have some big man spots to fill but most of our skill guys will be coming back.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Linn-Mar and Prairie should be a fun challenge.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“We faced a lot of good competition. Ben Kueter stands out.”
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Nevada running back Cason Stevenson
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have confidence we will for sure have a winning season next year. We are losing a lot of good seniors but also bringing up some young talent and players that can fill some roles. With a young team, it may take some getting used to, but I am looking forward to next season and excited for a new roster.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“N/A, our schedule is not out yet.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“N/A, our schedule is not out yet.”
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Tripoli athlete Bryce Schroeder
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will have a better season next year than we did this year. Basically our entire team is returning. We do have holes to fill offensively and defensively, but I think we’re capable of filling those holes.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I would say our hardest opponent next year would be Turkey Valley, they were a great team last year and they still will be a great team, but I do think we can beat them and win our district.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I would say the hardest individual opponent we are going to face as a team is going to be Keegan Eastman, he has potential to be a great QB and it will be fun to play against him next season.”
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North Fayette Valley running back Kaleb White
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think next year we will be even better. A majority of our team this year, we’re juniors, and I think we are very solid. Hoping to make a dome appearance next year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Next year I think Waukon will still be our toughest competition. They are always a solid squad and never seem to have a down year.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“As far as toughest individuals, I think Ryan Brosius of Wahlert Catholic will be the toughest.”
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Valley defensive end Ryan Kuennen
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I’m excited for next year and hoping we can make it back to the dome.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Dowling and Ankeny.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Kadyn Proctor and Jamison Patton.”
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Aplington-Parkersburg outside linebacker Joe Johnson
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like next season we will be even better. We are going to have a lot of guys coming back next year. Every single one I know is putting hard work in the weight room or in other sports.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Obviously Dike and Denver are good competition. They have several good players. They are definitely teams I want to beat big time.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Dike's running backs are good. I think they do a good job carrying the ball.”
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Linn-Mar running back Carter Henderson
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will do well this year. We lost a lot of seniors that all played an important role on the team. Everyone will need to step up and put in the work in the off-season to make an impact on this team.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Southeast Polk and Prairie.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Not really sure.”
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ADM running back Brevin Doll
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think that we are in a good spot going into next season, we have a lot younger guys on the varsity field this year and we play the same schedule.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Harlan is coming off a state title season so I think they will be tough.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“N/A.”
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Iowa Falls/Alden running back Jaden Damiano
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Our team will do pretty good next year for football, we are losing a few key guys but I feel we have the depth to replace them.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think PCM (Prairie City-Monroe) will be our toughest competition in our division because they always have depth to replace their good players.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think the toughest individual that we will play against is Peyton Hart, the quarterback from West Marshal. He is a dual threat quarterback because he can both run and throw the ball really well.”
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West Fork athlete Trevor Guritz
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like we could be really good moving into next year. I think we are pretty set with our skilled positions and our line should be good too.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our toughest team will probably end up being West Hancock since they have always been good.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest individual would be between Josiah Chibambo and me.”
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Cedar Falls running back Jacob Kieler
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“With our team this year being mainly senior-dominated, it may be a little more challenging next year. Cedar Falls always finds a way to overcome though and has a history of being a great program.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Prairie, Kennedy, Pleasant Valley, and of course the Des Moines schools are always challenging. Just have to go into every game knowing a loss is possible and got to play hard no matter what.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“There’s a lot of great athletes in 5A. Of course, there’s Kadyn Procter who’s a very well-known player. In the event we have to play Southeast Polk, he would be a challenge.”
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Waukon quarterback Noah Hatlan
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“For next season we have some spots to fill but our coaches do a great job filling those spots and help our team be successful. The team will be ready to work and learn and do what it takes to be a good football team. I think there will be some extra motivation during practices because of how our season ended last year. Us juniors are going to have to step into the leadership role of the seniors and lead the younger guys in the right direction. If that happens I think we’ll have a very good season next year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I would say the toughest team on our schedule next year is going to be Waverly-Shell Rock. They beat us up last year and they return some of their key players for next season.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest individual I think we’ll face is McCrae Hagarty from Waverly-Shell Rock. He is a tough fullback and defensive end. He runs hard on offense and makes a lot of plays on defense.”
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Prairie running back Makelle Taylor
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel that we can go all the way next year. We have a lot of talent.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I haven’t really looked at our schedule for next year but I know there will be a lot of competition in 5A football.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I don't know.”
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Woodbury Central running back Max McGill
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“My expectations for next year are the exact same as we had for this year. Play every game to our best ability and with all of our heart and we’ll make it to the dome.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I can’t 100% say for sure because I believe every team can bring their own set of skills to the table but I also believe that we are bringing the best we can so, I’m not sure.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Again I can’t say for sure because I'm terrible at remembering players and teams.”
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Glenwood running back CJ Carter
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Next year I think we’ll be a solid team. We have a lot of young guys that love the grind and are putting in a lot of work.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The toughest team we’ll play next year will probably be Harlan, they are returning state champions but I feel like our team is going to come out on top against them.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“N/A.”
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Regina running back Levi Daniel
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like our team will do very well next year. We lost several seniors and most of our line this year but I’m confident that we have guys who will be ready to step up and take their place.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel like next season our toughest competition will be Williamsburg. They have consistently trained good athletes and always put up a fight.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Nolan Delong from Durant, Andy Henson from West Branch, Anthony Isley from Mediapolis.”
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Anamosa athlete Devin Brophy
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I hope we will do better with this upcoming class coming up. Hopefully they will be able to step up in the roles of this senior class that is graduating.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Beckman.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Jack Menster.”
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North Union running back Bryer Prochniak
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I believe next year will be the best year this school has ever seen for football. We got some size on the line and good skill positions and everyone is eager to prove the haters wrong.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The toughest team on our schedule will be West Hancock. Hands down we’ve played them over the years and are always a good solid team.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The best player we will see is Rylan Barnes. He is a good player and doesn’t make many mistakes.”
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Norwalk wide receiver Dillon Ranck
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have very high expectations for our team. We have so many guys returning and now we all have a feel for how the game is played on Friday nights so there won’t be any nerves getting in the way. I know we can make it far.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Lewis Central the defending state champs will be one of if not the toughest game of the year for us. However, we get to play them at home this year and I think that can have an effect on their game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Drew Kingery just because of how much of a rivalry game Norwalk vs Indianola is.”
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Akron-Westfield wide receiver Lane Kenny
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I’m not sure how good we will be next year. We lost all five of our starting linemen from last year. I still think our offense has the capability to be very explosive though because we have great receivers, a strong running back, and a mobile quarterback.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think the toughest team for us next year will probably still be Gehlen Catholic because they are always fast and we are rivals so it is always a physical game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest player our team will face will be Kooper Ebel. He is a good defender and is hard to bring down when he runs the ball.”
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Lawton-Bronson wide receiver Caleb Garnand
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We will be much improved. More experienced, bigger, faster and stronger. [We] will still have a small senior class but the junior and sophomore class will help even more.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Logan Magnolia will always be tough in our district. A couple of other teams will be contenders as well, including the team just east of us.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Westwoods RB/LB Jackson Dewald is the guy. He was Mr. Everything for the Rebels.”
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Lewis Central free safety Curtis Witte
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Make a deep run into the playoffs, possibly returning to that state title game and defending the trophy.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“We play a lot of tough teams throughout the year, but Harlan coming off a state championship week one will be hard to surpass.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“N/A.”
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Westwood fullback Jackson Dewald
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will have a good team next year; we get a year older and stronger.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Woodbury Central will probably be the best team on our schedule.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Max McGill or Calvin Wallis. Both are fast while Max is more physical and Calvin is shifty.”
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Colfax-Mingo wide receiver Curtis Horras
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We had a lot of underclassmen this past year that had varsity minutes so returning players will help out a lot. I think we’ll be a lot better and win more games.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think Lynnville Sully will be our toughest competition.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Corder Nounharder from Lynnville Sully.”
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Ankeny wide receiver Will Hinrichs
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“This upcoming season I think our team will do pretty well overall. We’re losing a couple people in spots on defense that we’re going to be looking to fill in the off-season but our offense will still do well and we’ve still got some high intensity players still with us on the team.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel like the toughest team we will go against in this upcoming season will most likely be Dowling Catholic they have a good program and have good kids still in their program this year.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest individual player that we will go against this year in my opinion is Kayden Proctor. He is one of the most talented athletes in 3A and he will be tough to get around.”
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West Lyon running back Tate Hawf
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We have high expectations for ourselves every year. I think we are working hard in the off season and will come to play next year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Central Lyon has been great and will continue to be next year. It’s a great rivalry to be a part of and each team always comes to play.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think that there are a lot of great players and we can’t overlook anyone.”
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Shenandoah wide receiver Brody Cullin
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think the team will have a great year. Always looking at the upside.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think Greene County will be the toughest, they have very good athletes.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Greene County’s running back is super good, short and stocky.”
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Roland Story wide receiver Carter Flattebo
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think next football season we will be better than we were this past season.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel like West Marshall will be one of the tougher teams that we will play.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I am not totally sure on who the toughest individual player is that we will play.”
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Albia wide receiver Wyatt Beckwith
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Better than last year I hope.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“West Marshall.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Last year it was Preston Pope.”
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Cedar Falls quarterback Gavin Steege
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I’m super excited for next season and I feel with most of our line and our running back coming back we should have some success. Having half of our d line come back next year is going to be huge because they are so talented and it will be key to our defense if they can get pressure in the back field.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Prairie is always a very talented team to play and they will be a tough opponent.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think that Prairie has their running back and wingback type guy coming back and I believe they could be the guys we got to watch for.”
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OABCIG athlete Gabe Winterrowd
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have a lot of confidence in our team for next season, because of how well we did last year and the fact we are returning 9 starters on offense and 8 on defense.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Southeast Valley is always a tough game, and we have lost to them our last three times we played them. Next season will be our first time playing them at our place so that will be a big bonus.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Owen Larson from ELC. He was a sophomore last year, but he was very athletic.”
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Nevada quarterback Noah Mills
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we have a lot of guys pushing themselves this off-season to become better and that will help us a ton. Obviously we are losing a lot of good players, however I see no reason why we won’t be just as good, if not better.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“We play a lot of really good teams, but I’d say probably Humbolt or Algona. Each of those teams have a ton of good players and it should be a good game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Again there’s a ton of talent we play against next season, but I’d say the DE Tayeton Lohaus from Humboldt. He’s a big dude with some offers so it’ll be fun to compete against him.”
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Solon running back Sean Stahle
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“The team next year has a lot of great athletes, the returning players of Blake, Brett and I will have to be leaders to players who didn’t play much last year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our toughest competition will definitely be Williamsburg, we have played them since we were young and they have always been tough to beat.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Henry Ryan, or anyone from Mt. Vernon, they always play ten times harder against us.”
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Harlan wide receiver Jacob Birch
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we got a good chance to make another run.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think the first game of the year against LC will definitely be a challenge.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think LC’s Braylon Kammrad, he’s a really good QB.”
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Lynnville-Sully running back Kyle Squires
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We have a lot of returning talent on our team, which I’m very excited about. Almost all of our skill players were sophomores and juniors, and what we lose on the line we will have the younger guys fill in nicely. It’s my last year of football, so our goal this year is to make it to the dome.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“It’s hard to say what team will be the best, as things change so much from year to year, and most of the time our districts and schedules are up in the air. However, Belle Plaine is usually always on our radar. We have a lot of respect for that team and what they do, and it’s always a dog fight when we play.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“We played Ogden this year, and one of the toughest guys for them was Nathan Comer. He was a linebacker for them, and he was incredibly fast and a really good athlete. We’ll have to watch out for him if Ogden stays in our district.”
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Akron-Westfield wide receiver Jack Terpstra
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel that our team will be pretty solid, we’re going to have a lot of spots to fill with younger talent but that shouldn’t be much of a problem.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“HMS will definitely be the toughest team we play next year. They have a lot of returning guys and they are all pretty big.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“There isn’t really any specific player that will cause a problem, just a whole team effort from a solid team is always a problem.”
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Clarinda athlete Isaac Jones
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Last year was a disappointment and we need to come back Harder than last season and do the little things right to break the stone and get over that hump. We have plenty of talent and hard working leaders. With the right steps forward we should be competing for a state championship run.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our non-district competition is pretty tough. Underwood, Creston, and Treynor. They all are good programs and we have to be ready to go right away.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Alex Ravlin, Underwood QB. Good athlete and a good all-around player.”
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Ankeny defensive back Ben Sandvig
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we can go really far into the postseason. We will be better than what people think, [we’re] going to shock some people.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Dowling and SEP are always tough, I think Waukee NW will be good too and so will Valley.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Kadyn Proctor and Abu Sama from SEP come to mind [as well as] Ayden Price and Jaxon Smolik. We'll play with a lot of talent.”
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Gilbert tight end Will Hawthorne
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Our team will be improved, we have key pieces returning and strong leadership.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Bondurant-Farrar, a 4a state qualifier.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Titus Cram is a tremendous athlete, he is difficult to tackle in space.”
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Norwalk wide receiver Keilor Rodman
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I am really excited for this upcoming season, we have a lot of leaders and people who are willing to do what it takes (especially on the offensive side of things) and I think we could make a deep run into the playoffs.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“We have a lot of good competition this year, and it would be hard to say which team is going to be the toughest, as they all have a ton of talent.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“There is a lot of individual talent too, so it would be hard to say which player will be the toughest to play.”
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Clear Lake athlete Titan Schmitt
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We will be young but hungry to compete to win the district and get back to the playoffs.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Dike, Osage, and New Hampton will be really good.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“There are a lot of good players. But McShane from New Hampton is tough.”
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Fort Madison wide receiver Kane Williams
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I have confidence that if we play to our ability our team will have a great year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“North Scott is a tough competitor and I think they will be the toughest we face.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I think Maxwell Weston from Fairfield will be a tough competitor, he’s a big guy that can catch the ball so I think he will be tough.”
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Harlan quarterback Teagon Kasperbauer
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think with everybody we have returning we’ll be able to come back even stronger with a lot more experience.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I don’t think there is one team out there that will be tougher than another. That moment you think you're going to walk into a game and win, it’ll come back to cost you. I think if we walk into every game like it’ll be a dog fight then we’ll do our best.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I’m not too familiar with the opposing players we’ll play before we play them. Every week I’ll watch film to figure out who I can take advantage of and where my strengths and weaknesses are.”
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AC/GC defensive lineman Michael Fuller
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like we have a chance to be great, if everyone on our team does our 1/11th, we’ll beat anyone we play.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel our toughest competition will have to be Van Meter.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I would have to say the toughest individual we will face next year will be Ben Gilliland from Van Meter.”
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Wilton defensive end Alex Kaufmann
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
We have 11 seniors returning and most play both ways. I think we can win 2 or 3 more games this season which would put us into the playoffs with even 1 more win last season.
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
West Branch Bears, This team is fast,strong, physical, and smart. We played them last year and fell short one game of the playoffs as they moved on. They have a very good running back, Andy Henson, very athletic and strong. Not to help he has a couple stars on his offensive line that are returning from last season.
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
A player I keep on my radar is RB Nolan Delong out of Durant which is a rival. He’s a very fast,strong, and explosive athlete. Another one is Anthony Isley RB out of Mediapolis. Most of all there’s an athlete out of West Branch who also has a few athletic lineman in front of him as well. Andy Henson RB very strong, speed, and has vision for the field.
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Dallas Center-Grimes running back Zach Smid
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like this year we have the leadership roles that we were missing last year and therefore will have a good season.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Lewis Central is always good and they are coming off a state championship so they’ll have momentum.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Titus Cram is the first dude that comes to mind. He’s a dog and I should know, I’ve been playing him in sports since I was a little kid.”
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Lynnville-Sully athlete Conner Maston
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel our team will do great things next football season. This past year was a great year for our program after a few struggling years. We gained a lot of confidence in ourselves and the person next to us and trusted in each other from day one. Next season is going to be fun and I’m really looking forward to it and I know my teammates are as well.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The team I think will be the toughest team on our schedule is going to be Pleasantville. In my years of playing them, they have always gave our team struggles. Last year we lost our first game to them as well. Pleasantville never quits and are a tough team ready to battle it out the whole game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest individual player I think our team will face off against next year is Ty Alcott from Belle Plaine. Ty is a physical young running back who runs downhill. He doesn’t mind taking hits either.”
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Dowling Catholic wide receiver Cooper Nicholson
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Our team has been doing a great job this off-season with holding each other accountable about getting our lifts and workouts in. We are starting to form chemistry and relationships. I feel like we have a really good chance with the returning starters and overall talent on the team.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our hardest competition will be similar to last year with SEP our first game and NW, Ankeny following. We have one of the hardest schedules that Dowling has had in awhile.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Our toughest player we will play against is definitely Kadyn Proctor once again. He has stopped our run game when he is on defense and has also given us a hard time rushing the QB. We will have to game plan over him but I do think it is possible.”
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Harlan tight end Franz Reisz
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Our main goal as a team is to go back-to-back in the state championship and go undefeated again. I feel confident that we can do that. We are really talented all the way through.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Last year the toughest team was probably Lewis Central, they are always a tough team to go against.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Probably Landyn Van Kekerix of Boyden Hull-Rock Valley, he was probably one of the hardest players to take down.”
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Wapsie Valley tight end Mason Harter
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think we will be a really good team next year, we all have to work together. We also have most of our team returning back next year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Grundy Center, they have always been a really good team.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“That is a hard one, a different player steps up every year.”
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North Scott defensive end AJ Petersen
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think that the team and I will improve a lot from last year. We will use last year as a learning experience to grow. We have a good group of players joining the varsity family this fall, I'm excited to use experiences from last year to help improve the team.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think that it would be another great game to have a rematch with Cedar Rapids Xavier.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Football is a team sport, we try to focus on the team as a whole and not as individuals.”
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Murray quarterback Zack Belden
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“We are losing a lot in terms of starters, but so is everyone else. I think that if we just play our game and stay true to ourselves we will do just fine next year. We have a lot of young guys returning and more coming up as freshmen, so we will definitely have a lot to build around in the coming years.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“As of the last few years I think that we’ve proven to not only ourselves but to everyone else that we can hang with anyone. Of course the playoff ball is a little different, but we will face that challenge when we get there.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Again there are a lot of great guys out there that we will play against, in my opinion I don’t think you should overestimate or underestimate anyone, plenty of guys can make that leap between years, so we have to be ready for whatever could possibly be thrown our way.”
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Lewis Central safety Caleb Moore
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Next season we are trying to win back-to-back state championships.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Harlan will be our most difficult regular season game but it’s fun because it’s a rivalry game and we both just won state.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Aidan Hall.”
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How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Next football season I see our team competing with anyone we play against and can see us making a run in the playoffs. We have lots of talent all around and people that can make big plays.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think the toughest team that we are going to face has to be either Audubon or Waco.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The toughest individual I think that we’ll play against next year is Simeon Reichenbach from Waco.”
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Clarinda running back Tadyn Brown
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like we will do very well, we are finally coming together and next year could be a big year for us.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The game I'm looking forward to the most is Underwood again, they will be our toughest competition this year so we will be ready for them.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Alex Ravlin from Underwood will be the toughest player we face this year. He can see the field very well and knows what plays to make.”
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Southeast Polk linebacker Caleb Chebuhar
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“Good, people don’t know who we have up and coming.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“All of them.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“We take every player, no matter [their] athletic capabilities, the same.”
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Boyer Valley linebacker Bobby Gross
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I feel like my team can compete with any team out there. We have kids putting in the work and bettering themselves every day.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I feel that West Harrison, Audubon and CAM will be our toughest competition. They have some great talent and some better coaching.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I do not have an individual picked out of my conference that will be unstoppable. No individual person can make or break a football team.”
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Keota athlete Evan Vittetoe
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I think our team should do pretty good. We lose a lot of talent but we should have enough kids to fill in those empty spots.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The toughest team that we will face next year will be Pella Christian or Durant.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Nolan DeLong, the future UNI football player.”
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North Fayette Valley fullback Blake Reichter
How do you feel your team will do next football season?
“I believe that our football team will be better than last year and a real competitor for a state championship.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Waukon and Dubuque Wahlert will be tough competition as always.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The running back for Dubuque Wahlert, Ryan Brosius.”
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Ames running back Jamison Poe
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I feel our team will do good this season because we’re [a] very young team now so we can build that and we get better.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think Iowa City will be the hardest team we will play.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Everyone, because everyone [is] trying to get their spot so I want to get better this year.”
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Woodward-Granger wide receiver Brody Nardini
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I believe our team will be successful this fall. We have lots of guys bought in and are ready to roll this fall.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Honestly we just take our schedule week by week and focus on one team at a time. I would say SCC because they are always well-coached and come ready to roll.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Lots of the guys we had to focus on have already graduated.”
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Wapsie Valley athlete Dawson Schmit
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I think our team is going to do very well this season. We have a lot of guys on the team that are all in for football and will put everything they have day in and out.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I think that Grundy Center will be our hardest game. They have always been a great team and a team we struggle to play against as a whole.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I would have to say the toughest individual would be Tye Bradley. He is a good athlete who knows the game of football very well. He makes the right decision and is just an overall great quarterback.”
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Ankeny defensive lineman Diego Jackson
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“State Champions.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Southeast Polk.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Abu Sama.”
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Harlan kicker Stephen Leinen
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I have a feeling we will be a tough team to beat this coming year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our first game of the year vs Lewis Central will be a tough game.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Not sure, we play a lot of great players throughout the year.”
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Fort Madison running back Teague Smith
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I think we will win a lot of games this fall.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“North Scott will be a tough team.“
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I don’t know.”
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Harlan defensive back Wil Neuharth
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I feel like we have a good chance to go far again.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Lewis Central will be a good game. The 4a vs the 3a state champs will be fun.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“Johnathan Humpal will be good competition from Lewis Central.”
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Prairie tight end Brayden Duerksen
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I feel good about the guys we’ve got. We really just got to show up every day ready to work and I think we will do some great things.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“I have to go with Polk. Last year we had a super close game with them and they’ve got some really strong players.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“I feel like @AB3_sama was pretty strong against us last year. I’m sure he will be great again this season.”
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Dowling Catholic wide receiver Hank Brown
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I feel amazing on how my team will do this season, we have really bounded this offseason.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Honestly the hardest team I think we will play this season is the team we play week by week because we have to focus on the task at hand.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“It could be anybody because as a team we can’t just focus on one person but the whole team.”
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Harlan athlete Matthew Sorfonden
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“N/A.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“Our game 1 (Lewis Central) is going to be a tough one but we are working very hard to make sure we come out with the win.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“N/A.”
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Lynnville-Sully running back Corder Noun Harder
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“I feel our football team should go deep into the playoffs.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“On our schedule the two teams that stand out are Pleasantville and Madrid.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The QB from Pleasantville Parker Sheets.”
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Des Moines Christian defensive end Owen Elam
How do you feel your team will do this football season?
“With the new additions that we have made to the coaching staff I feel that we have the ability to beat any team in the state especially within our district and we should have a shot to win every game this year.”
What team do you feel will be the toughest competition on your schedule?
“The toughest team on the schedule will be Greene County as they are always tough to face just because they are a very well-coached team and they are also returning a bit of talent from last year.”
Who is the toughest individual player your team will face off against?
“The kid that is going to be the toughest to play against this upcoming year would probably be Jesse Mille from Greene County as he is a very tall athletic tight end who is just hard to match somebody up with.”
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