Season preview: Sheridan and the right mental attitude
By: Stephen Koroly
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NELSONVILLE, Ohio (WOUB) – The Sheridan Generals finished 2023 with one of the deepest playoffs runs in the 740 area. The Red Rage finished second in the MVL Big Division only losing one conference game and boasting a 12-2 overall record.
Sheridan also appeared in the regional final last year. This is the first time the Generals have gotten to the elite eight since 1987. How do they get back to that spot this season? Their mantra, Right Mental Attitude.
Sheridan recently attended a seven on seven at Nelsonville-York High School where the Generals played in three scrimmages against: Nelsonville-York, Miller, and Logan Elm.
Red Rage Head Coach, Paul Culver III says that these seven on seven’s helps his quarterbacks: “So it really, really helps quarterbacks obviously seeing the timing and the pacing and the spacing and they can see different coverages. You tell them about which way they shade and which way the eyes are. So, it’s great for quarterbacks.”
Speaking of quarterbacks, the starting spot for the Generals this season is currently open with Caden Sheridan graduating. Culver will have to decide between two quarterbacks, Junior Logan Hupp and Sophomore Tyce Whiteman.
Hupp brings experience, mobility outside the pocket, and a fast arm. Whiteman on the other hand is a raw talent that holds a ton of potential. The sophomore offers a strong arm, big frame, and a good knowledge of the playbook. Either option will be a solid decision so this will be a tough decision for culver.
A huge motivating factor for this team comes from their final loss last year. Sheridan was eight points away from reaching the final four as they lost in the regional final to Steubenville, 14-7.
Generals Senior Evan Anderson has made it clear that this loss will fuel the whole team in 2024: “You know, you’re that close to going to the final four and then that happens. It’s heartbreaking. We started lifting in February and we walk in the very first morning and there’s a picture of the final score right there hanging in the weight room. So, that’s all it took.”
After losing 19 seniors, Anderson and other seniors have huge leadership roles to fill this season.
But with the right mental attitude, success is only a snap away.