Lakeland High School Football Preview
Last year, Lakeland had a down year, to say the least. They finished with a tough 2-8 record. Their schedule didn’t do them any favors last year as they were always on the road. After October 2nd, the Lakers never…
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Continue ReadingLast year, Lakeland had a down year, to say the least. They finished with a tough 2-8 record. Their schedule didn’t do them any favors last year as they were always on the road. After October 2nd, the Lakers never saw their home field again. The Lakers are not used to having such a bad record. They are used to success and pushing for a conference championship every year.
The Lakers are led by new Head Coach Ryan O’Shea. O’Shea came in and took over last year when some issues with Covid forced a change. He did the best he could with the tools available to him in the middle of the pandemic. O’Shea is young, a high-energy guy, and someone players feed off of.
The Lakers had a handful of key players graduate last year. They will be replacing a bunch of players and could be in a sticky situation if some injuries happen. Luckily this year, they have their key star returning and think he’s set to have a huge year.
Cole Schiffli is set to be the Lakers starting WR and FS. He plays both sides because he has the ability to do so at a high level. Schiffli is 5’10 and still growing. He’s also currently only 150 lbs but he’s reportedly been in the gym all summer. At WR he plays inside and is able to sit in open zones and move the chains. He isn’t the most dynamic player you’ll watch but he’s reliable. He’ll get open and catch the ball. Defensively, he’s good at attacking and coming to balance and making a sure tackle. He’ll be very important to the Lakers’ success in 2021.
Last year, the Lakers struggled offensively and only put up 14 ppg. They’re hoping that some of the young players, such as Schiffli, are ready to step up and be the core of the team. Year 1 with a new and young head coach, a pandemic, and a young core is a tough spot. They’re a year removed and a year older. I expect the Lakers to take a jump in 2021.
The Lakers start their season against Churubusco at home on August 27th at 7 PM. Last year as I mentioned, their schedule was brutal. This year, they get some favors. More home games than away games this year and no back-to-back away games. They also finish the season at home back-to-back weeks instead of being on the road nonstop. The Lakers have so many positive signs heading into 2021 and they should be a fun team to watch.