By Chris Parker
Jasper football finished 7-4 last year in the program’s second season as an 8-Man program.
The Eagles have their eyes on even more this year with five starters returning on each side of the ball.
Jasper featured one of the best ground games in all of Missouri 8-Man last year with 3,015 rushing yards and 57 touchdowns. The Eagles only completed five total passes for 63 yards last year.
That ground game will again look to be dominant with Juan Rivera and Mitchell Avalos returning. Rivera carried the ball 89 times for 958 yards and 19 touchdowns as a junior. Avalos had 94 carries for 813 yards and 14 touchdowns.
“Both have improved their overall strength and quickness over the past year with a tremendous work ethic, and possess above-average speed. They are built differently and have differing styles, but can both take it the distance from anywhere on the field,” Jasper head coach Mark McFarland said. “They must continue to play with great toughness and confidence. We expect our seniors to step up each year and assume the leadership role that our culture demands.”
All-district offensive lineman Austin Taylor returns up front to open holes for the running game.
“Austin has had a great off-season in the weight room and leads by example in every aspect. We have great confidence in him being able to anchor the line and bring the best out of those lined up beside him,” McFarland said. “He is definitely stronger, quicker, and has great feet for a big man. His commitment to our program and work ethic is unrivaled.”
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He will be joined on the offensive line by James Neher, Noah Neher and Collin Furr.
Quarterback and wide receiver are open competitions with this team.
McFarland said his offense will have “good overall speed, very physical, improved athleticism.”
Defensively, James and Noah Neher along with Taylor will play up front on the defensive line. Luke Beard, Clayton Anderson and Furr will be a linebacker. Rivera and Avalos will be joined by Brandon Knight and Quenton Winans in the secondary.
James Neher is the team’s leading returning tackler. He had 49 total tackles as a junior. He also led the team in sacks with 4.5.
“We will need to gain experience at a few positions and continue to embrace the physical style that has been expected here,” McFarland said.
Jasper will travel to Lockwood for a jamboree with the host Tigers, Liberal and Greenfield on Aug. 19. The Eagles open the regular season on Aug. 26 at home against Osceola.
