Gallatin wins a tight battle over Maysville in a matchup of first-time coaches

by Jeremy Benson, GrandRiverConference.com

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After eight years as an assistant coach behind Chris Holt, Brock Goodman finally had the opportunity to coach his first high school game Friday night for the Gallatin Bulldogs against the Maysville Wolverines. Attravius Addison also coached his first game for the Wolverines.  

The Bulldogs held Maysville out of the end zone and forced a field goal attempt by Maysville's Mac White with four seconds left.  White's kick from 39 yards was a few yards short, and Gallatin left Maysville with a 30-27 victory.  

While Goodman still employs much of the same style as his protege, Holt, he opened it up more.  This was evident when he passed on the first play.  Goodman said, "I've been with Coach Holt for eight years.  I was at Lathrop and then here at Gallatin.  Hands down, by far, one of the best X's and O's coaches, especially with the running game.  So I learned a lot about that.  This year, I am going to throw it a bit more.  I feel like my skill kids are a little better, and I have a really good quarterback."  

Gallatin got on the board first in the game when they converted a 4th and 4 from the 13-yard line to set up a touchdown.  Brody Bird would then run it in from four yards out.  After a Brendan Rainey PAT, the Bulldogs were up 7-0 with 6:58 left in the 1st quarter.

Maysville was able to drive into Gallatin territory on their first drive.  Parker Sollars returned the kickoff to the Gallatin 36-yard line.  The Wolverines moved the ball as far as the Gallatin 9-yard line before turning it over on downs.  Brayden Watkins intercepted Jackson Ohlberg on the next possession and returned it to the end zone for a pick-six.  A Mac White PAT tied the game at 7 with 2:08 left in the 1st quarter.  After one quarter of play, it was Gallatin 7, Maysville 7.

Gallatin built a sizeable lead by scoring on its next two possessions.  On a fourth-and-16, it looked like Maysville would stop them, but Ohlberg found Bird for a 25-yard touchdown pass.  A direct snap to Connor Michael on the conversion was successful and made it 15-7 Bulldogs with 9:25 left.

The Bulldogs deployed a trick play for the conversion.  Goodman said he put that play in during the summer. "Coach Holt did not like the swinging gate.  This is year three for me here at Gallatin.  So we put it in.  It's just another thing teams have to prepare for."

After a Maysville punt, Ohlberg scored with a quarterback keeper from the 1-yard line.  He then found Bird in the end zone for the two-point conversion to put Gallatin up 23-7 with 3:19 left in the half.  Maysville would not go away, however.  They struck fast.  Kris Gabbard scampered downfield for a 65-yard run to get the Wolverines to the 4-yard line. And Walker Tracy finished the job with a 4-yard touchdown.  The snap was fumbled on the conversion, leaving the score Gallatin 23, Mayville 13 with 2:44 left in the half.

Maysville forced Gallatin to punt with about 30 seconds left. The kick was a short punt that Brayden Watkins fielded and ran back to the Bulldogs' 14-yard line. However, he was stripped of the ball, which Gallatin recovered. The Bulldogs took a knee, leading at the half 23-13.

In the third, Maysville would respond when Parker Sollars scored on a 24-yard touchdown reception.  The PAT was mishandled, making it 23-19 Gallatin.  Gallatin would respond with another 4th down conversion.  This time, Ohlberg would find Connor Michael on a catch and run to score on a 4th and goal from the 13.  The PAT by Rainey made it 30-19 Gallatin with 1:06 left.  Gallatin would hold that lead at the end of the 3rd.

Goodman said that the Bulldogs responded well after Maysville's opening drive. "We went to that 300. It's a heavy package that we do, and we just kept running it.  And wherever they put #44 (Dillon Willis), I would call it the other way.  My thought process is you take their best player out of the game, and he can't really affect it."

This was the 2nd touchdown of the game for the Bulldogs on a 4th down conversion and the 3rd drive with a critical 4th down conversion.  Goodman said about the conversions, "It was really good to see adversity.  That's good.  We didn't see that last year.  We battled a lot of things.  It was good to get that taste out of our mouths tonight." 

Carson Bray would come in for Kris Gabbard at quarterback and drive the Wolverines down the field.  Walker Tracy capped it off with a 7-yard touchdown run.  Kaleb Watkins added the two-point conversion, and the Wolverines only trailed 30-27 with 7:04 left.  

The Wolverines stopped Gallatin on a quarterback sack on a 4th and 11 at the Maysville 28 with 2:53 left in the game.  This would give Maysville one last shot to tie or take the lead.  Maysville got down to the 24 on a Walker Tracy run of 18 yards with 1:13 left in the game.  But Gallatin stopped them on the following 3 plays and left them with a 39-yard field goal attempt with four seconds left.  Mac White's attempt was online but fell short of the goalposts to end the game.  

In college and NFL games, the decision to kick the field goal in the situation would be automatic.  But kicking can be an adventure in high school football, especially for Class 1 schools.  It was not an easy decision for Coach Addison.  "We came down to the wire with a kicking decision.  Where it was either to go for it for the win or to kick it.  Something obviously that is unfamiliar for our team and Maysville to kick field goals.  So I was told I would go down in legendary history to kick the field goal."

Goodman was complimentary of Ryker Whetstone, who made two big tackles to keep the Wolverines from having a more manageable field goal attempt. "That was really big.  We wide our D-ends right there at the end.  As a sophomore, Ryker made those two big tackles.  It was good to see him step up for sure."

It was a significant victory for the Bulldogs, who had a challenging season last year, winning only one game. This win not only marked a promising start to their season but also a significant milestone for Brock Goodman, who won his first game as a head coach.

Goodman was happy with the play of Jackson Ohlberg, who battled adversity last year, saying, "I am glad to see Jackson back.  Jackson actually tore his ACL on this field last year.  And so, to see him come back in a year and work the way he did in the weight room, rehab, and to be where he is now is a pretty cool story."

Gallatin is now 1-0 (1-0 in the GRC).  They will host Marceline, who defeated Putnam County 33-7 in their GRC opener.  

For Maysville, it was Coach Addison's first game. While they had some positive developments, they also made some key mistakes that cost them a chance at their first win. Coach Addison said, "We had a lot of success early on from our returning guys—Kris, Dillon, Brayden Watkins. They did well offensively.  We tried to establish the run early and often, and then we can, pass the ball.  I was very proud of what they were able to showcase and do early on and throughout the game in general."

Addison was complimentary with how the players fought adversity during the game. "I think that shows the character of the team and the program in general.  Where there's adversity, you are either going to meet it, or you're going to lay down.  I think our team met adversity, and we fought against it."

Addison added that they need to work on fixing mistakes with more repetitions.  "Offensively, we had some breakdowns due to having to play third- and fourth-string quarterbacks due to some injuries and bumps.  Obviously, that is the nature of football.  It's bound to happen.  So giving them more repetitions and more time to learn from these errors and mistakes.  Comes along side with fatigue."

Addison said he is proud to be the head coach of Maysville's program and looks forward to the rest of the season. 

Maysville is 0-1 (0-1 in the GRC).  They will travel to Brookfield, who defeated Trenton 35-14 in their GRC opener.

2024 Grand River Conference West 8-Man Football Preview

by Jeremy Benson, GrandRiverConference.com

Sponsored by

*Please cite Jeremy Benson, GrandRiverConference.com if you use the Coaches' Poll in other media

Worth County steamrolled through the Grand River Conference West last season on their way to the State Championship Game.  They outscored their conference opponents by an average of 70 to 9, with their closest game being a 38-point win over North Andrew.  The coaches have selected Worth County to repeat as conference champions with five first-place votes, but the Tigers will have more competition this season. Albany is #2 in the poll with three first-place votes.  St. Joseph Christian comes in at #3, Stanberry at #4, North Andrew at #5, King City at #6, Pattonsburg at #7, and Princeton at #8. The upcoming season is set to kick off on August 30, 2024.

1. Worth County Tigers

The Worth County Tigers finished 2023 with a record of 12-2 (7-0 in the GRC West).  They opened the season with a 38-34 loss to Platte Valley but won 12 games in a row before falling to Archie in the State Championship Game.  If the Tigers are to become the first team ever to win back-to-back GRC West football championships, they will have to replace a talented senior class, which includes four All-Staters. 

Tyler New (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Quarterback, 1^st Team All-Conference and All-District Linebacker, 1^st Team All-Conference Returner, 1^st Team All-State Athlete), Grant McIntyre (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 1^st Team All-State Tight End, 1^st Team All-Conference Defensive Back), Elias Alarcon (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 1^st Team All-State Offensive Lineman, 1^st Team All-Conference and All-District Defensive End), and Kolton Smith (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 1^st Team All-State Defensive Lineman)  exhausted their eligibility last season.

Worth County still has a lot of talent returning with Landon Wilmes (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 1^st Team All-State Running Back, 2^nd Team All-Conference Linebacker), Lucas Frisch (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Linebacker), Ethan Lininger (Honorable Mention All-Conference and All-District Offensive Lineman), Carter Chapman (All-District Defensive Lineman), Brayden Stevens (All-District Offensive Lineman), and Bo Collins (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and 2^nd Team All-State Defensive End, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Defensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-State Offensive Lineman).

Worth County coach Jon Adwell said, “We are a team this year with a lot of youth that has some big shoes to fill.  They are a hard-working group that is excited for the opportunity to try and fill their shoes.  I expect this group to grow on the fly as the year progresses.”

2. Albany Warriors

The Albany Warriors had a great season, finishing 7-3 (5-2 in the GRC West). It was their second straight season finishing in the number two spot in the GRC West. However, the Warriors could not capitalize for the second straight year when they lost their first postseason game. The Warriors are again picked to finish second in the GRC West in 2024. Albany returns a talented team poised to take the next step this season.

Due to graduation, Quentin Hurkman (2^nd Team All-Conference Running Back and 2^nd Team All-Conference Punter), Bryce Martin (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 3^rd Team All-State Offensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive End), Kole Emerson, and Hunter Coil are gone.

Chase Cline (All-District) will return at Quarterback after a 1,200-yard passing season with 21 touchdowns.  Elliot Mercer (All-District Specialist) will return at Running Back.  Elliot had 831 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2023.  Wide Receiver Kyle Emerson (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Wide Receiver, 1^st Team All-Conference and All-District Defensive Back, Honorable Mention, and All-District Returner) had 478 yards and nine touchdowns last season. Seth Miller (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Defensive Lineman) and Andrew Wiles (2^nd Team All-Conference Linebacker) were key contributors on the defensive side. Zane Rippy and Trevor Akins also return for the Warriors.

Newcomers that should have an impact are Cameron Martin (RB/DB), Keghan Schaefer (RB/LB), Shae Miller (OL/DL), Jace Palmer (LB), Porter Runnels (OL/DL), Kutter Peterson (OL/DL), and Jay Anthony (OL/LB)

Albany coach Doug Fountain said, “Like every season, we expect to improve each week and be ready to play our best football as we enter November. We’ve been extremely pleased with our off-season commitment and look forward to the opportunity to put our hard work on the field.”

3. St. Joseph Christian Lions

The St. Joseph Christian Lions surpassed expectations last year, finishing with a record of 7-4 (4-3 in GRC West) to secure a third-place finish. This was a significant achievement, especially considering they were initially predicted to finish last after a 1-win season.  The Lions are entering the new season with high expectations, as they return most of their team and welcome James Schoonover as their new head coach.

They graduated three talented players in Vail Fruechting (Honorable Mention All-Conference, All-District, and 2^nd Team All-State Tight End, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive End), Jaren Padgett (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Offensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive Lineman), and Judson Smith.  Vail had 16 touchdowns last season, which helped him earn all-state honors, while Jaren and Judson were experienced players on the line that the Lions will have to replace this season.

All-Stater Peyton Hausman (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 3^rd Team All-State Running Back, Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive End/Linebacker) returns as Running Back and is joined by a talented group of returning players, including Cy Carlson (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Running Back, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive Back).  Both Peyton and Cy ran for over 1,000 yards last season.  Peyton is a power back, while Cy has agility and speed in the backfield.  Seniors Logan Hubble (2^nd Team All-Conference Wide Receiver, All-District Defensive Back) and Levi Miller (All-Districts Defensive End) return and will be essential additions to the offensive line. 

Mason Stewart shared time with Miller at quarterback during his freshman year but is expected to take over full-time during his sophomore campaign.  Others to watch this season include Aiden Martindale (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Linebacker), Shaden Morris (Honorable Mention and All-District Defensive Back), and Connor Wagers.

Coach Schoonover said, “For the upcoming season, our expectations are to be highly competitive in a challenging conference filled with talent. We aim to focus on toughness and resilience as key areas of improvement. Changes are inevitable due to turnover. We anticipate seeing adjustments throughout the season. Also, transitioning from Coach Schenk last year will bring changes, but we acknowledge the strong foundation he laid, which continues to benefit the program.

Our outlook is positive, with high expectations for this group of players. Though we will have to rely on youth in some key positions, there is a great deal of excitement about the opportunities this season presents and the future ahead.”

He added, “This is the best group of young men I have had the pleasure to be around. They have worked extremely hard to get where they are, and I hope that can be seen by the way they play the game!”

4. Stanberry Bulldogs

The Stanberry Bulldogs had a promising start last season, winning their first five games. However, injuries to key players disrupted their momentum, and they finished with a record of 6-4 (4-3 in the GRC West).  The Bulldogs are determined to bounce back and navigate a challenging GRC West with a young roster this year.

Colby McQuinn (2^nd Team All-Conference All-Purpose Back, All-District Quarterback) and Tucker Schieber (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and 2^nd Team All-State Running Back) are key players who are gone from last season.  Nate Giffin (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and 3^rd Team All-State Kicker, 1^st Team All-State Punter) and Brayden Hahn (2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive End/Linebacker, All-District Linebacker) also graduated.

Colby McQueen (1^st Team All-State, All-District, and 3^rd Team All-State Defensive Back), Decker Heyde (1^st Team All-Conference Tight End), and Treston Williams (2^nd Team All-Conference Returner, All-District Specialist) will return this season for the Bulldogs. McQueen will start at Quarterback, where he got some experience last season when McQuinn was injured.  Cooper Adcock is also expected to contribute for the Bulldogs.

Stanberry coach Shane Hilton said, “I fully expect us to get better as the season progresses with the youth/inexperience of our team.  We should be able to compete and do well this year. We have a young team with solid talent that we will need to get in the right spots.  Once we get this accomplished, we will do well.”

5. North Andrew Cardinals

The North Andrew Cardinals were coming off a run to the State Championship Game last season.  While most people were not expecting another title run, the Cardinals usually reload instead of rebuild.  However, losing ten seniors and then having critical injuries to a couple of key players was too much for a team that already lacked depth.  The Cardinals could not recover and finished 2-8 (1-6 in the GRC West). 

The Cardinals expect to rebound this season, but the GRC West coaches are taking a wait-and-see attitude. Payton Simmons (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 1^st Team All-State Defensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman) and Matthew Evans (All-District Quarterback) are gone from last season, but there is still a lot of talent at North Andrew.

Braxon Linville will return to Quarterback his senior season after missing the last half of the year due to an injury. He still rushed for 800 yards and 12 touchdowns in only five games. Running Back Maddox Sybert (Honorable Mention All-Conference and All-District Defensive End) had 683 yards and four touchdowns last year and will also return.  Avrey Miller (1^st Team All-Conference Defensive End/Linebacker, All-District Defensive End, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Linebacker, 1^st Team All-State Hybrid) is still one of the top defenders in the state, with 20 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks.  Some newcomers to watch for are Jaxon Richie and Isaac Coats.

North Andrew Coach Dustin Williams expects the team to “compete with toughness and compete for a conference title.”

6. King City Wildkats

The King City Wildkats finished the 2023 campaign with a record of 3-8 (2-5 in the GRC West). Last season was a rebuilding season, as they had to replace 17 seniors.  The underclassmen gained valuable experience that should help the Wildkats this season. 

King City returns its entire starting lineup from last season. Darwin Bowden, who threw for over 1,000 yards and 11 touchdowns, will return at Quarterback.  Ryder Sample (2^nd Team All-Conference Wide Receiver, 2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Defensive Back, All-District Returner) is at Wide Receiver but is a threat to both run and catch the ball.  He had 388 yards rushing and 548 yards receiving with 15 touchdowns.  Cooper Mooney (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Linebacker) is one of the top defensive players returning with 90 tackles (10 for loss) and four sacks. 

Jaxzen Johnston (All-Conference Honorable Mention and All-District Offensive Lineman), Kavien Aborn (Honorable Mention All-Conference and All-District Defensive Lineman), Carter Jackson (All-District Defensive End), Josiah Schellhorn (All-District Defensive End), and Graham Medsker are also key returning players for the Wildkats this season, along with a couple of talented freshmen, Jax Jundy (RB/DB) and Landon Carlson (QB).

King City coach Micah Breckenridge expects the team to “Build on last year's young team and continue to improve and be more consistent and competitive.”

7. Pattonsburg Panthers

The Pattonsburg Panthers finished the season 4-7 (2-5 in the GRC West), but it was a season full of “what could have been”.  The Panthers lost three conference games by one score and led in all three but could not close them out.  The Panthers finally got on the winning side with a three-game winning streak before falling to state-power Worth County in the District Semifinal.  In addition, they had two straight games holding their opponent under 10 points, including a shutout of Albany.  It was the first time in school history that they held opponents to single digits in back-to-back games.

The Panthers will lose all-state athlete Gage Iddings (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Linebacker, 2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Quarterback), who had over 4,000 passing yards for 58 touchdowns.  Iddings added 598 yards on the ground for another 15 touchdowns.  The Panthers return a roster of talented players this season, especially at Wide Receiver. Whoever fills Gage Iddings's shoes at quarterback will throw to Landon Preston (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Wide Receiver), Wyatt Maize (All-District Specialist), Camden Griffith (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Wide Receiver), and Gavin Humphrey (All-District Wide Receiver).  Every one of the receivers had at least 600 yards receiving and nine touchdowns, with Preston leading the way with 1,537 yards and 20 touchdowns.  Also returning on the line will be Jace Estrada (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Offensive Lineman), Collin Mason, and Parker Virtue.

Tate Richardson, Drake Sperry, and Rimington White are new players to watch.

Pattonsburg coach Brandon Burkhead said, “My expectations for this year are having someone step up and fill Gage Iddings's shoes on offense and defense. I think Landon Preston will be more than capable of filling the shoes on defense. We have a defense returning that was firing on all cylinders at the end of the year. Our struggle is going to be filling the quarterback spot, but we have a good group of quarterbacks who are willing to accept the challenge. We have kids who did not play last year coming in, and I think they are going to fit in perfectly with our offense. For the first time in 4 years, we have a combination of size and speed, not just speed. I am looking forward to seeing this team get better as the year goes on! We also have a good number of linemen, giving some of the bigger guys a break where they don't have to play both sides of the ball. Same with our skill positions, we have good numbers and players who are capable of stepping in to give breaks.”

8. Princeton Tigers

The Princeton Tigers experienced some early success in the GRC West in their first season in 8-man last season, but a demanding conference schedule and injuries to key players made it difficult, and they finished 3-7 (3-4 in the GRC West).  This season, they have to try to start over after losing a talented athlete in Talan Holt (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri All-Purpose Back and All-District Quarterback, KMZU Dream Team - Offense) and a veteran coach, Nathan Powell.

Louis O'Brien will take over as the Tigers' head coach this year. In addition to Talan, the Tigers must replace the leadership and toughness of Evan Houck (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Offensive Lineman, KMZU Dream Team—Defense) and Nicolas Rubio (All-District Defensive Lineman).

Returning for the Tigers will be Tyler Coffman (All-District Running Back) at Running Back and Linebacker, Ethan Rhoades (All-District Wide Receiver) at Running Back and Safety, and Cooper Boxley at Wide Receiver and Defensive Back.  Clay Evans is also expected to return after an injury last season.

Newcomers expected to contribute include sophomores Hunter Lowrey, Corbin Powell (All-District Tight End), Kash Holt, and freshmen Mitchell Walker and Bowe Ussery.

Coach O’Brien said, “We have an extremely young football team with lots of potential for the future.  The freshman class coming into the season had some success in junior high.  They have great leadership qualities and are good young athletes.  The sophomore class is crazy talented, with a couple of up-and-comers this year.  We have a few large-frame athletic sophomores to look forward to in the future.  This year, we expect to improve one game at a time and build our program for the future.”

2024 Grand River Conference 11-Man Football Preview

by Jeremy Benson, GrandRiverConference.com

Sponsored by

*Please cite Jeremy Benson, GrandRiverConference.com if you use the Coaches' Poll in other media

2024 is poised to be a year of significant change for the Grand River Conference. Adding Brookfield and Marceline as full members, who are competing for the football championship for the first time, marks a significant transition. These new members bring a new level of competition to the conference, adding another layer of anticipation. Gallatin and Maysville, with their new coaches, also contribute to the excitement. Despite the turnover, stability remains a crucial factor for the top teams, with the top five in the coaches poll all retaining their quarterback this season.

The coaches poll was very close, with four teams receiving a first-place vote. Milan emerged with the most first-place votes at four. Despite receiving three first-place votes, Trenton accumulated the most points and is the overall pick to win the Grand River Conference this year.   Milan follows closely at #2 in the poll, with newcomers Brookfield and Marceline each securing a first-place vote and ranking at #3 and #4, respectively.  The poll concludes with Polo at #5, South Harrison at #6, Maysville and Putnam County tied at #7, and 2022 Champion Gallatin at #9. The upcoming season is set to kick off on August 30, 2024.

1. Trenton Bulldogs

The Trenton Bulldogs finished last season 9-2 (5-1 in the GRC). They achieved their highest district seed at #2 before falling to the Mid-Buchanan Dragons in the District Semifinals. 

The nine wins were the most for Trenton since they joined the GRC.  The 5-1 record in the conference helped them to a 2nd-place finish, with their only loss coming to the hands of the Milan Wildcats.  The Bulldogs are picked to win the conference over the Wildcats this season.  They last won the GRC in their inaugural season (2016).

If Trenton is going to win the conference this year, they will have to find production to replace Gabe Novak’s 1865 yards.  Gabe was 1^st Team All-Conference at Running Back and Defensive Back.  He also earned 2^nd Team All-Conference at Punter and Returner, All-District at Running Back, MSSA All-District at Running Back, and KMZU Dream Team - Offense.  Other key players that made an impact for the Bulldogs that they will have to replace are Gavin Cagle (1^st Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman and Defensive End, All-District and 3^rd Team All-State Defensive End, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Offensive Lineman, KMZU Dream Team - Defense), Gabe Stark (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Defensive Lineman), Brayden Wiggins (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Linebacker), Brayden Hughs (2^nd Team All-Conference Athlete, All-District Wide Receiver, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Kick Returner), and Collin Taylor.

Trenton returns eight starters this year, including Quarterback Mason Rongey (Honorable Mention All-Conference Quarterback, 2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Defensive Back), who will take snaps behind Offensive Linemen Riley Gott (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Offensive Lineman), Jake Schmadeke (Honorable Mention All-Conference Offensive Lineman), Hunter Ledgerwood, and Hunter Smith.  Other returning starters include Devin Baker (Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive Back), Aiden Weyer (2^nd Team All-Conference Wide Receiver), Elijah Miller, and Kaleb McCallon.

Coach Kevin Hixson said, “We know we have some spots to fill and have been working hard in the offseason to get that done. We  have to come together and work hard so we can go compete with our opponents.”

2. Milan Wildcats

The Milan Wildcats had a remarkable season last year, clinching their 3rd GRC Title and advancing to the Class 1 State Semifinals, where they narrowly fell to North Platte. This was their best playoff performance since their 1993 Class 1A State Championship win. They finished the season with an impressive 11-2 record, including a flawless 6-0 run in the GRC.

The Wildcats are picked to finish 2^nd in the GRC this season but must replace 14 seniors.  This includes 1,800-yard rusher Carlos Cotto (1^st Team All-Conference Running Back and Returner, 2^nd Team All-Conference Linebacker, All-District Running Back and Returner, 1^st Team All-State Running Back and Returner, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Running Back, KMZU Dream Team - Offense), Ahmet Niasse (1^st Team All-Conference Athlete, 1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri, and 1^st Team All-State Linebacker, KMZU Dream Team - Defense), who had 300 career tackles, Jose Garcia (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and 2^nd Team All-State Defensive End, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Lineman), Don Divin Ngombo (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Defensive Back), Kamden DeRyke (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Linebacker), and Jared Gonzalez (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri, and 1^st-Team All-State Kicker, Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive Lineman).

Milan will return Hunter Reed at Quarterback.  Hunter will bring a strong and accurate arm and very useful foot speed. All but Taylor Trenter return on the offensive line with Troy Aldridge (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Offensive Lineman), Santiago Osorio (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Offensive Lineman), Caleb Pearce, and Chris Hernandez coming back for the Wildcats.  Tony Linhart (All-District Specialist) will move to the wing position this season.  Eddy Garcia (Honorable Mention All-Conference Wide Receiver and Defensive Back) and Cheppe Ayala (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Lineman, All-District Defensive End) have been critical two-year starters on defense, but they will get an opportunity in the backfield this season, replacing Cotto and Niasse in the backfield.

Newcomers to keep an eye on are Macky Sow at Tight End, Ethan Bennett at Wide Receiver, and Rafael Sievers at Cornerback.

Coach Mark Cole said, “My expectation is to compete towards the top of the conference. We have several kids returning. We have a lot of experience, especially on the offensive and defensive lines. The conference is deep, and the addition of two very tradition-rich football programs makes our league very, very tough week in and week out. Staying healthy and consistent will be a huge factor in finishing the year where we want to be.”

3. Brookfield Bulldogs

The Brookfield Bulldogs finished 6-5 (4-3 in the CCC) in 2023. Despite the seemingly average record, it's worth noting that every one of their losses last season was to a team that finished 8-3 or better.  This year, the Bulldogs are determined to turn the tables and improve their record in their first year in the Grand River Conference, showcasing their resilience and determination to overcome past setbacks. 

Brookfield will have to replace a couple of all-conference players in Colton Parn (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and 1^st Team MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Running Back, All-District Defensive End, KMZU Dream Team - Offense) and John Walgren (Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive Back), but they have the nucleus of the team returning this season.

Returning at Quarterback will be Trayce Switzer (All-District and 2^nd Team MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Quarterback), who threw for 1,267 yards and 13 touchdowns.  He will be protected by an offensive line that includes Devan Parn (1^st Team All-Conference and All-District Offensive Line, 2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and 2^nd Team MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Line), Jake Gladbach, Makky Kerns, and Ross Ehrich.

Switzer will have many weapons, including Kendrell Carter (All-District Running Back), who had 536 yards rushing and three touchdowns, and Peyton Parn (1st Team All-Conference and 2^nd Team MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Back, 2nd Team All-Conference and2^nd Team MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Wide Receiver, KMZU Dream Team - Defense), who had 803 yards receiving 11 touchdown receptions, and two rushing touchdowns. Kameron Perry (All-District Defensive Back) and both Parns return as the top defensive players.

Colden Parent (WR/DB), Siope Pulu (TE/LB), Lucky Poston (WR/DB), and Hayden DeJong (WR/DB) are newcomers who expect to contribute to the Bulldogs.

Coach Cory Luke said, “We expect to show up and compete. We realize that a lot of the schools in this new conference are rich in football, and we know that they will compete play in and play out, so we have to match that. We will look for our big group of returners to continue to make plays and look for them to take the next step.”  He wanted to thank the fans as well and added, “The boys get fired up when they look up in the stands and see our Brookfield faithful cheering them on. Thanks for the support, and we couldn’t be more excited to get this season started”

4. Marceline Tigers

The Marceline Tigers finished 7-4 (5-1 in the LCC).  After losing their first three games, they rebounded by winning their last six regular-season games and captured a share of the Lewis & Clark Conference title.  They were picked fourth in their first year in the Grand River Conference but received one first-place vote.  Although they fell 26-21 in the district semifinals to Milan, the Tigers showed they could compete in their new conference.

Marceline will be looking to replace some talented players, starting with Conner Quinn.  Conner earned LCC Co-Offensive Player of the Year at Running Back and Co-Offensive Player of the Year at Linebacker.  He was also an All-District Running Back and Linebacker, 2nd-Team All-State Linebacker, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Running Back, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Linebacker, 2nd-Team All-Conference Kicker and KMZU Dream Team - Defense.  Other key players who graduated include Leon Sibley (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Offensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive End), Caleb Stallo (1^st Team All-Conference Defensive Back, 2^nd Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Wide Receiver), Kason Brammer (2^nd Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman), Reece Svendson (3^rd Team All-Conference Tight End, 3^rd Team All-Conference Linebacker), and Barrett Stearns (2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive Back, 3^rd Team All-Conference Athlete, 3^rd Team All-Conference and All-District Returner)

Dax Thomas (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Quarterback, 2^nd Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Back, 3^rd Team All-Conference Punter, KMZU Dream Team - Offense) will return at Quarterback.  Protecting him will be returning Offensive Lineman Marc Garcia (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Linebacker, 3^rd Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman), Scout Gooch (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Lineman), and Broc Cordray.  Cody Rodgers will also return at RB/WR on offense and LB/DB on defense.  Two returning defensive players will be Gunner Evans at Defensive Lineman and Jagger Sportsman at Linebacker.

Newcomers for the Tigers include Brady Phillips (LB), Parker Wellman (OL/DL), Javen Lichtenberg (OL/DL), Dane Dorrell (OL/DL), Gage Teeter (OL/LB), Payton Gladbach (OL/LB), Tucker Ewigman (WR/DB), Trent Ewigman (QB/DB), Baylor Stearns (WR/DB), Weston Malloy (WR/DB), and Harrison Green (WR/DB)

Coach Joey Peterson said, “This group has a long way to go, but if we stay healthy and continue to work like we have this summer, it will be a very good season.  I have high expectations for this group, but we will have to come together and continue to develop before we meet the goals I have for them.  We’re preparing to carry on the winning tradition set here at Marceline and hopefully make another deep postseason run.”

5. Polo Panthers

The Polo Panthers finished last season 6-4 (3-3 in the GRC).  They significantly improved from the previous season, in which they failed to win a conference game.  They started the season 5-0 before struggling down the stretch.  The Panthers look to take another step this season, compete for a conference championship, and make a deep run in the postseason.

Like most teams, Polo will have to replace key contributors from last year’s team.  Hunter Harris (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Offensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive Lineman), Ayden Baker (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Wide Receiver, Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive End, Honorable Mention All-Conference Returner), Wyatt Kelley (2^nd Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman), Aiden Gray (Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive Lineman), Levi Bolling (All-District Defensive End), and Aden Segal all graduated and will have to be replaced. 

The good news for the Panthers is that they still have plenty of offensive firepower returning from last year.  Quarterback and GRC All-Sports Athlete of the Year Maverick Gentry returns at Quarterback (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Quarterback, 1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and 2^nd Team All-State Defensive Back, 1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and 1^st Team All-State Punter, 2^nd Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Kicker, KMZU Dream Team – Offense).  Maverick threw for 1,811 yards last season for 18 touchdowns.  Tommy Ross (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Linebacker, 2^nd Team All-Conference Running Back, KMZU Dream Team - Defense) will also be back at Running Back, along with Gage Gilbert (1^st Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Tight End, 1^st Team All-Conference Linebacker, All-District Specialist) and Brandon Wallace (Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive Back) at Wide Receivers.  Ross had 883 yards rushing and six touchdowns in 2023.  Gilbert had 257 yards receiving and 333 yards rushing with seven touchdowns (5 receiving and 2 rushing).  Wallace added 200 yards receiving and two touchdowns.  All four, along with Dalton Gatrel (Honorable Mention All-Conference Linebacker), are also returning as key contributors on the defensive side of the ball as well.

Owen Horner (RB/DB), Cody Zeigler (OL/DL), and Carson Thompson will be second-year starters expected to significantly impact Polo this year. Trenton Qualman and Ashton Tanner will play a big part in line development, and Drew Moore will immediately impact the Panthers' return game. They will also be counting on Walker Kelley and Briggs Martin, a couple of freshmen, to push for significant time.

Polo coach Kyle Ross said, “I felt like we were very competitive in each game we played, and our record showed that.  Hopefully, those situations will help us be more prepared this year to win close games.  We will need to replace several key people, especially up front quickly for us to continue to be in positions to win games. We will still be a small team, but I think our team speed will help us in most situations.  We have veteran skill position players that will need to continue to improve and try to be even more impactful than they were in 2023.  Defensively, I felt like we got back some of our identity last year of being tenacious and pursuing the football relentlessly, and I have no doubt that this group knows how important that is.”  He added, “As possibly the smallest class 1 school, depth will be key for us, so to be successful, we will work as hard as possible to try and stay injury-free.”

6. South Harrison Bulldogs

The South Harrison Bulldogs football has a history of winning tradition. It has 18 GRC Championships, the most of any current GRC member. It has had five winning seasons in the past seven, with titles as recently as 2019 and 2020. However, it has hit some hard times recently, only winning two conference games in each of the past two seasons. In 2023, it finished 3-7 (2-5 in the GRC).

The Bulldogs will have to replace Braxton Booth (All-District Quarterback, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive Back, Honorable Mention All-Conference Athlete, KMZU Dream Team – Offense) and Jarrett Eivins (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Offensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive Lineman, KMZU Dream Team – Defense), but many players from last season will return.  Crae Coffey (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Running Back, 2^nd Team All-Conference Defensive End) rushed for over 1000 yards with 12 touchdowns last season.  Briar Hudlemeyer (2^nd Team All-Conference Linebacker) had 93 tackles at Linebacker.  Other returning players are Cooper Johnson, Joel McCall, and Ruger Johnson (2^nd Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman).

Brysan Quinley will be taking for over Booth at Quarterback. He got a decent number of reps at JV last year, which is a valuable experience for varsity this season. He is very athletic and one of the most competitive kids on the team. He will pass the ball to Khale Taggart and Jett Cornett, hoping to spread out the opposing defense.

South Harrison Coach Chris Schoning said, “Our expectations are high this year. We had a lot of sophomores that had to step up for us last year and got a lot of good experience that we hope progresses into this upcoming year. These young men that we have now love the game of football and are always wanting to get better.”

7. Maysville Wolverines

The Maysville Wolverines have been close in many games but have just not been able to get over the hump.  They finished last season 3-7 (2-4 in the GRC).  It was the 7^th consecutive losing season for the Wolverines.  New coach Attravius Addison enters the program hoping to get Maysville to the next level. 

Maysville will have to replace talented players Coy Sobotka (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Linebacker, 2^nd Team All-Conference Running Back), Max Heintz (2^nd Team All-Conference Offensive Lineman, 2^nd Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Defensive Lineman), Kobyn Metzger (1^st Team All-Conference Wide Receiver, 2^nd Team All-Conference and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Defensive Back, 2^nd Team All-Conference Punter), Kendrick Gabbard, and Draken Bennett.

The Wolverines did not leave the cupboard dry for coach Addison.  Many talented players return, including Quarterback Kris Gabbard (All-District Quarterback, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri All-Purpose Back, Honorable Mention All-Conference Defensive Back).  Other talent surrounding Gabbard will be Dillon Willis (1^st Team All-Conference Defensive End, 2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Tight End), Brock Windham (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northwest Missouri Offensive Lineman), Carter Harms, and Dillon Clark.

Walker Tracy (RB/FB), Mac White (WR/TE), and Brayden Watkins (WING/RB) are newcomers expected to contribute.

Coach Addison said, “I expect to compete to be in the mix at the top of the conference. Our focal point is to go 1-0 each week and improve on all facets of the game each practice.  Collectively, we have a young nucleus of talent that is hungry and eager to learn more and compete. Despite having to cultivate a new offensive and defensive mentality, our student-athletes have continuously shown that they are willing to do what it takes to be successful.”

7. Putnam County Midgets

The Putnam County Midgets had high hopes last season after making a district championship appearance, but injuries derailed their season. They finished 2-8 (2-4 in the GRC). This season, they hope the experience the younger players gained will pay dividends.

Gone from the Midget’s program are Jude Watt (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Back, 2^nd Team All-Conference Running Back), Kollin Huse (1^st Team All-Conference and All-District Linebacker, KMZU Dream Team – Defense), Tristen Hendee (2^nd Team All-Conference, All-District, and MSSA All-Northeast Missouri Defensive Lineman), Trace Riediger (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Quarterback, 2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Punter, MSSA All-Northeast Missouri All-Purpose Back, KMZU Dream Team – Offense), Reed Valentine (2^nd Team All-Conference and All-District Offensive Lineman), and Riley Ayers (2^nd Team All-Conference Wide Receiver).

After taking some snaps last season, Gideon Jones (2nd Team All-Conference and All-District Linebacker) will take over at the Quarterback position full-time this year.  Other top players returning include Angstrom Watt, Logan Jones, Diego Lopez, and Bentley McCormack.

Others who should get significant playing time for the Midgets include Jacob Jones (TE/OLB), Nick Roberts (RB/LB), Hoyt Halley (OL/DL), Avery Campbell-Johnson (WR/DB), Matthew Blanchard (WR/DB), Luke Aguilar (WR/DB), Corbin Campbell-Johnson (RB/OLB), and Charley Dickerson (RB/LB).

Putnam County coach Adam Huse said, “Last year, our season was derailed by injuries that required a lot of younger players to play when they weren’t ready for varsity football action yet. This also forced us to cancel the majority of our JV football season, resulting in a loss of playing time for our young players. The benefit was these guys got experience and were able to see the speed of the game. This should help us with our learning curve this season. We know we are going to be young and have a lot of inexperience. We are only returning four true starters on offense and three true starters on defense, but many more with playing time due to injuries. Our hope is that as the season goes along our players grow and mature. If this happens, we feel we can be a much stronger football team by districts than we were at the beginning of the season. Our overall goal is to make every game competitive and come out healthy.”  Huse added, “The start of the season might be rough as the young players learn how to play at the varsity level, but over the season, the kids will grow and get better and better each week, and we feel this will strongly show by the end of the season.”

9. Gallatin Bulldogs

The Gallatin Bulldogs were the two-time defending GRC Champions last season, but quarterback Peyton Baker suffered an injury during the first game. Injuries continued to mount, and the Bulldogs did not have the depth to overcome them. They finished the season 1-9 (1-5 in the GRC), their first losing season in the conference since 2015.

If the Bulldogs are going to improve this season, they will have to replace Baker (Honorable Mention All-Conference Quarterback), who is the school’s all-time passing leader.  Also graduating from last season are Keegan McBroom (1^st Team All-Conference, All-District, MSSA All-Northwest Missouri, and 2^nd Team All-State Defensive Lineman, KMZU Dream Team - Defense), Boston Bell (Honorable Mention All-Conference Athlete and All-District Wide Receiver), Stanley Hanson (Honorable Mention All-Conference Running Back), and Owen Waterbury (Honorable Mention All-Conference Offensive Lineman).

Jackson Ohlberg will be the starting Quarterback this season.  He gained experience behind center last season when Baker was injured.  Connor Michael (All-District Defensive Back), Brandon Rainey (RB), and Brody Bird (WR) are also returning.  Travis Shubert (WR) and Tim Larson (RB) are newcomers who are also expected to contribute.

New coach Brock Goodman said, “New Season for the Gallatin Bulldogs, we have a lot of question marks for the 2024 season.  Who will be the next man up to fill some key roles from the last season?  These are some of the questions we are trying to figure out this summer and putting kids in the right place to make our team successful. Our mentality is to go 1-0 each week and just focus on us.”