The East Knox football team had a rocky 2022 season in which they lost the final five games and went 2-8 and 1-6 in the Knox Morrow Athletic Conference (KMAC). Coach Andy Beatty hopes that the team can learn from the struggles of last season and wipe the slate clean in an effort to make a deep run. Heading into Friday night's KMAC-opening game vs. Centerburg the Bulldogs were 1-2, starting with a 14-0 win over Northridge before enduring a pair of losses.
"After a challenging 2-8 season last year, we have learned valuable lessons and used that experience to our advantage," said Coach Beatty, who is entering his second season as head coach of the Bulldogs and ninth season coaching East Knox, with seven coming as a varsity assistant coach.
"Despite facing a ferocious schedule, our team showed remarkable resilience and rebounded nicely during the off-season by increasing in numbers and involvement in the strength program here at East Knox. We took those rough experiences as an opportunity to grow, both individually and as a team."
Beatty added: "Our motto this season is simple “We Will." Our approach and our mentality are one of determination and resolve. We know our goals, we know our expectations, and we know what we need to do. We will approach each day trying to win the rep, the day, and eventually the game."
Beatty said the team has been working hard to improve skills, strategy and teamwork. He said his players have been dedicated to training, and the roster has been strengthened with depth and versatility. He also said the coaching staff has been putting in the work to analyze past performances and make the adjustments needed for and during the season.
"With our renewed determination and improved capabilities, we are optimistic about this season," Beatty said. "While we recognize that success in sports can be unpredictable and there will always be tough competition, we genuinely believe that we have what it takes to be a stronger contender. Our aim is to build upon the positive momentum from the previous season's rebound and use it as a stepping stone towards a more successful and fulfilling season."
Beatty is expecting significant growth from sophomore quarterback Jax Lester, who last year stepped in and brought his best while learning on the fly. With a full offseason and pre-season under his belt, Lester has shown improvement and leadership. In three games this season, Lester completed 23 of 50 passes for 305 yards and two touchdowns.
He also said one of the hardest-working players on the team is junior Blake Elliott, who is moving to the feature back of the offense. Last year he was named honorable mention All-KMAC. Beatty called him "the ultimate team player," a "workhorse" and a "truly selfless player."
He said Elliott looks ready for the opportunity to contribute this year in a new way. Elliott has gained 187 yards on 26 carries and has scored three TDs on offense and has led the defense so far with 19 solo tackles and 28 assists in three games.
Senior Alex Dolby anchors the offensive and defensive lines, and Beatty said he has worked hard in the weight room and during pre-season and weekly workouts. He called Dolby's transformation "incredible" and said he has grown to be a leader.
Bracen Davis moved into the wide receiver role in week five last season and ended with second-team All-KMAC honors. He is already the top target for Lester, with 12 receptions for 132 yards.
Beatty said players who showed major improvement include senior offensive lineman Lane Lashley, who has gotten stronger and shed weight in the off-season. Beatty said he is constantly looking for feedback and how to improve. Another is offensive lineman Peyton Finch, who Beatty said has proven to be coachable and willing to do what is best for the squad.
Sophomore lineman Aiden Riggle has been a workhorse and worked hard in the weight room and in practice. Freshman Caden Ridenour has also been a pleasant surprise to Beatty and the coaches and was described as a selfless player who could play many positions due to his athletic ability.
The team did have some key losses to graduation including first-team All-KMAC wide receiver Carson Steinmetz; second teasers Cole Delaughder (RB) and Jacob Neighbarger (DE); linebacker Dustin Springer; offensive lineman Luke Hornsby and defensive back Ryan Morton. Beatty said he has full confidence in the players on his team to step up and fill the gaps.
The Bulldogs will run multiple offenses this season, with Beatty saying they will focus on the shotgun formation but also use the field, numbers and the competition from week to week.
"Our identity is that of a power running team," Beatty said.
On defense, Beatty prefers to use odd fronts, such as a 3-3 stack. He said this allows them to slant, penetrate and attack, as well as be sound on back-end disguise coverages.
"While we recognize that success in sports can be unpredictable and there will always be tough competition, we genuinely believe that we have what it takes to be a stronger contender," Beatty said. "Our aim is to build every week and use it as a stepping stone towards a successful and fulfilling season."
East Knox played Friday against Centerburg (details unavailable at press time) and continues their KMAC schedule next Friday, Sept. 15 at home against Cardington-Lincoln.
