Winnebago Preview 8/10/12
By: Scott Leber
Updated: August 10, 2012
Winnebago, Illinois-Winnebago's evolution into a football school took a big step forward last year. The Indians made school history by making it to the third round of the playoffs. They also set a school record by winning nine games. That success should carry over to this year.
"The guys are now starting to see the recent success we've had, and they want to keep that going," said head coach Mark Helm.
The Indians are determined to not let anyone outwork or out condition them. Their numbers are up this year to 36 varsity players giving them more depth which should lead to more internal competition.
The Indians had an explosive offense last season with several big-play guys capable of going the distance at any moment. The playermakers this year will include runningback Michael Pate, receiver Jacoby Posley, and runningback Tay Shanklin. Shanklin is back after suffering a severe knee injury in week three last season.
The Indians also return talented tightend Derek Polkowski.
"We have a lot of players coming back that made big plays last year," said Polkowski. "We think we can make plays down the field like we did last year."
"The depth in the backfield is probably one of our strengths," said Helm. "I think there's multiple guys there that are capable of running the ball and making plays for us."
If there's a question mark it's at quarterback where the Indians have to replace Dylan Daub. Right now that job is up for grabs between Mitchell Heinen and Ryan Swigart.
"It's good competition," said Helm. Who's going to be the guy? I don't know. We'll figure that out in time."
"The guys are now starting to see the recent success we've had, and they want to keep that going," said head coach Mark Helm.
The Indians are determined to not let anyone outwork or out condition them. Their numbers are up this year to 36 varsity players giving them more depth which should lead to more internal competition.
The Indians had an explosive offense last season with several big-play guys capable of going the distance at any moment. The playermakers this year will include runningback Michael Pate, receiver Jacoby Posley, and runningback Tay Shanklin. Shanklin is back after suffering a severe knee injury in week three last season.
The Indians also return talented tightend Derek Polkowski.
"We have a lot of players coming back that made big plays last year," said Polkowski. "We think we can make plays down the field like we did last year."
"The depth in the backfield is probably one of our strengths," said Helm. "I think there's multiple guys there that are capable of running the ball and making plays for us."
If there's a question mark it's at quarterback where the Indians have to replace Dylan Daub. Right now that job is up for grabs between Mitchell Heinen and Ryan Swigart.
"It's good competition," said Helm. Who's going to be the guy? I don't know. We'll figure that out in time."
