The New Lexington Panthers prepare ahead of their chase for a third consecutive MVL-Small title
By: Craig Neal
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NEW LEXINGTON, Ohio (WOUB) — Following a season that ended in heartbreak at the hands of Indian Valley in the Region 15 final, the New Lexington Panthers are looking to reload after graduating some key members of their lethal rushing attack.
Senior captain receiver and middle linebacker Tanner Toth said, “Like I say to everyone you can’t replace experience, but I think these guys will play just as good” when asked how the guys taking a bigger role measure up to their predecessors.
The confidence around the team is strong, despite losing key contributors on the offensive line, senior center Eli Stephens believes that there’s not much pressure, saying, “Returning the skill guys that we have definitely lightens the load on the offensive line.”
Senior receiver and safety Tyson Spicer said, “The guys we have coming back can space out the field, they [the defense] won’t be able to make a right choice” when asked about how the offense will look this season.
When Spicer was asked about the team’s goals this season, he responded with, “16-0. State Champs.” Head Coach Kevin Board believes in his team achieving that goal saying, “You know, we lost to Indian Valley two years in a row in weeks 13 and 14, but the guys have come to me saying that they are ready to take the next step in building the program.”
Only time can tell for certain how the Panthers will perform in their pursuit of a third straight MVL-Small title. They will travel to Fairfield Union to open their season against the Falcons on Aug. 21.