With anticipation building toward a season that is still not guaranteed, Warrenton Football Coach Steve McDowell is reminding his team to appreciate each practice one down at a time.
“Things …
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With anticipation building toward a season that is still not guaranteed, Warrenton Football Coach Steve McDowell is reminding his team to appreciate each practice one down at a time.
“Things change each day for us, so our attitude is to get up every morning and come to practice to prepare for our first game,” said McDowell, who adds that COVID-19 presents unique challenges he’s not seen in 29 years of coaching.
The Warriors are scheduled to open the season against Wentzville Liberty on Friday, following a summer void of the usual offseason camps and limited personnel.
“We’re working with lower numbers and making the best of the situation,” said McDowell. “Right now we’re at around 45 in our program, which is down considerably — about 15 less than last year.”
Warrenton will lean heavily on its offensive line, after graduating 18 seniors and returning just one GAC All-Conference player in senior lineman Jack Russell.
“We’re looking for big things out of him, as he plays on both sides of the ball,” said McDowell.
Joining Russell as anchors on the line are Colton Dyche, who started around half of last year’s games at center or guard. Josh Napier will also be stepping in to contribute in the trenches.
T.J. Ray has also showed promise as a contributor on the offensive and defensive line.
“We've been very impressed with him, especially this first week of practice,” said McDowell. “He’s going to be a heck of an offensive lineman during his junior and senior years.”
Anchored behind the offensive line, the Warriors will rely heavily on a ground attack.
“We’re going to focus ourselves on building a real strong running game,” said McDowell. “We’re very blessed with some good skill kids.”
Returning with experience at quarterback is Caelon Weir.
The backfield will be equipped with running back Quincy McRoberts.
“We’re looking for big things out of him with his speed and also as a contributor in the secondary,” said McDowell.
The wide receiver position boasts experience from Shane Brosenne, who will also spend time in the secondary on defense. Senior Chase Cook also returns as a veteran at receiver.
McDowell is looking for contribution from Conner Tittel and Bob Taylor, who both return after absences from the program.
McDowell expects Nick Mertens to be a leader on defense.
“He has really sold himself in the weight room and become one of our leaders,” said McDowell. “His leadership skills have really come out, and you can tell he wants to do well.”
Andrew Cox will also play an impact role at linebacker, as well as lining up at tight end.
Tyler Conoyer will be returning to the safety position, with Kolby Meine returning experience at defensive back.
Warrenton will also look to John Starkey for increased contribution on defense.
Sophomore Troy Lundy has also garnered the attention of coaches and should play an impact role.
On special teams the Warriors will look to Colton Brosenne and Shane Brosenne for kicking responsibilities. McRoberts will anchor the return team.
“We’re going to be a little youthful at some spots and make some mistakes, but we’ve got to be able to adapt and overcome as the season progresses,” said McDowell.
