2025 Preseason Preview –  Zimmerman High School

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Entering his first season as the head coach of the Thunder, Coach Dan Hughes has Zimmernan&nbsp; a new chapter with a renewed focus on reaching their full potential in 2025. The Thunder return a solid mix of experienced seniors and talented juniors, making for an exciting blend of leadership and fresh energy.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Zimmerman's offensive identity is built on balance and versatility. The team is set to be multiple, capable of both running the ball and attacking through the air. With a strong group of skill players and a solid line, the offense is designed to be dynamic and unpredictable. Defensively, Zimmerman is built to stop the run and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks. With a 4-3 front and a focus on being physical and fast, the defense's primary goal is to create havoc in the backfield and make life difficult for offenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Here are some players to watch:&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>At the helm is <strong>Thomas Mceachern</strong>, a senior quarterback with multiple Division II offers. McEachern is one of the top quarterbacks in the state, known for his dual-threat ability. His strong arm allows him to make deep throws, while his running ability provides a constant threat to defenses. Whether he's throwing it or taking off with it himself, McEachern's playmaking ability is a key to Zimmerman's success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The receiving corps is anchored by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='743283' first='Noah' last='Schmit']</strong>, another senior with Division II interest. Schmidt is a big-bodied, fast receiver who can make plays downfield and after the catch. His ability to create separation and make contested catches will make him a focal point in the passing game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the backfield, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='551392' first='Mason' last='Spence']</strong>, a speedy senior, brings a unique skill set. While he'll be featured as a running back, he's versatile enough to line up at receiver as well. Spence's speed and agility make him a dangerous weapon in both the run game and passing attack, providing McEachern with a reliable option in space.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Zimmerman's offensive line is also an area of strength, led by <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='901018' first='Bryce' last='Nordlund']</strong>, a senior and Minnesota State commit. Nordlund is a physical, smart player who anchors the line, providing McEachern with protection and opening up holes for the running game. He's expected to play both ways, adding depth to the defensive line as well. Alongside Nordlund, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1184908' first='Nathan' last='Buermann']</strong> is a senior tight end who plays a crucial role in both blocking and receiving. Buermann's physicality helps solidify the running game, while his ability to stretch the field as a receiving threat adds another dimension to the offense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Junior <strong>Joe Larson</strong> provides additional depth on the line and at linebacker, respectively. He's an athletic player who brings energy and intelligence to the defense and offense, contributing at both linebacker and running back. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the secondary, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1257262' first='Jestin' last='Glidden']</strong> will be the key at cornerback. A senior with great coverage skills, Glidden can lock down receivers and prevent big plays. His ability to read the quarterback and stay with his man will be critical to Zimmerman's success against high-powered passing offenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1120545' first='Jameson' last='Smuda']</strong> is an impressive junior at Zimmerman, with a lot of potential ahead. Standing at 6'6" and 200 pounds, Smuda blends size, athleticism, and versatility, playing both wide receiver and defensive back. Last year as a sophomore, he made a significant impact on the varsity team, contributing on both sides of the ball. He's one of the top players in Minnesota's 2027 class. Smuda's ability to dominate as a receiver while also being a reliable force in the secondary makes him a key player for Zimmerman.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->