2025 Preseason Preview –  New Ulm High School

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>For New Ulm, the return of key skill players, along with a new offensive style, sets the stage for a more promising 2025 season. The blend of young talent and experienced leadership has the potential to make New Ulm a competitive force, especially with a renewed focus on their offensive and defensive game plans.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Eagles are shifting their offensive philosophy to a more pro-style attack after running a spread offense last year. Defensively, New Ulm is structured to make plays behind the line of scrimmage and limit big plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are some players to watch:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1654557' first='Owen' last='Castleman']</strong>, a sophomore, is back after starting three games at quarterback last season. He has shown progress, particularly in his deep-ball accuracy, and the coaching staff is excited about his growth. Castleman's physicality—standing almost 200 pounds—along with his arm strength, could make him a key asset in the new offensive system. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the backfield, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1648471' first='Zach' last='Hubbard']</strong>, a senior, is expected to be one of the most dynamic players on the field. A three-year starter, Hubbard will be utilized in various ways. As a wingback, he'll receive handoffs in the run game and also flex out to receiver positions. His versatility as a receiver and ball carrier makes him an essential part of the offense, and he's poised to have a breakout year with the added responsibilities in the new system.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1665831' first='George' last='Gag']</strong>, a junior, is another key offensive contributor. Last season, Gag stepped up as a sophomore safety, finishing second on the team in tackles. Now, Gag is expected to play both ways, continuing his development as a key defensive player while contributing to the offense as a skill player.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1238167' first='Jamison' last='Portner']</strong>, a senior, rounds out the skill positions. A member of the 4x1 state track team, <strong>Portner</strong> brings speed and excellent hands to the receiving corps. He's expected to have a larger role in the passing game this year and could provide a big-play threat whenever the ball is in his hands. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The offensive line will be anchored by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1629951' first='Isaiah' last='Friese']</strong>, a standout sophomore who will play both ways this year. Friese's work ethic and physicality make him one of the top players on the team, and his presence on the line will be critical for both the offense and defense. Alongside him is <strong>Tanner Backer</strong>, a junior who will be moving to center this season after playing tight end last year. <strong>Backer</strong> will also contribute as an inside linebacker, giving the team a strong, versatile presence up front. He's a versatile player and will be asked to drop into coverage and come up to stop the run, providing flexibility in the defensive scheme.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->