By Jordan Burton (For OzarksSportsZone.com)
Willard is under new leadership with Andy McFarland taking over after a successful run at Reeds Spring that included a state championship appearance.
He inherits a program that returns just six starters.
“In my first year at Willard, we have much to do,” said McFarland. “We have a lot of young talent, which brings the hope of a very bright future. We do compete in one of the toughest football conferences in the state, which is something that makes me very excited.”
Leading the group of returners is a crew of talented, physical linemen.
Seniors Dalton Jenkins (6-2, 260) and Brady McCroskey (6-1, 295) will anchor the offensive and defensive lines, while classmates Eli Burgin (6-3, 250) and Alex Nunez (5-11, 230) will see reps at tight end and on the defensive line.
In the COC you have to win at the point of attack and this quartet gives them that ability.
“Dalton is a big, strong athlete,” said McFarland. “He will be a leader that our team leans upon all season long. He is an absolutely great young man. Brady is a talented offensive lineman, with the size to go with it. He, along with our other offensive linemen will create opportunities for our backs and receivers to make plays with the ball in their hands.
“Eli has a rare combination of size, strength, and speed. He is a handful to deal with on our defensive line and will also be a reliable blocker and passing target at tight end. Eli has the size and talent to play at the next level. Alex possesses a rare combination of strength and quickness that suits him well on the interior defensive line. He will create matchup issues with opposing offensive lines.”
Classmate Styles Brown is another tight end and defensive end combo that adds strength and versatility upfront.
Seniors Emory Blackwell (5-9, 160) and Skylar Dickinson (5-10, 150), as well as talented junior JJ Huskisson (5-10, 160) will return to receiver and the secondary.
Harrison McDermott (5-11, 180) is a senior running back that could also see time at linebacker.
Several newcomers are in the mix for increased roles.
Junior Tyler Davis and sophomore Joe Roche are in a quarterback battle. Roche is a transfer from Rogersville and both players could see time in the secondary as well.
Junior Zach Gates (6-2, 240) is looking at a role on the offensive line. Classmates Colbee Mowell (6-5, 180) and Dylan Guynn (5-11, 150) are two players that will compete for time in the secondary and at receiver.
Sophomore Grayson Walden (5-10, 165) is another new face that could see a major role at running back and linebacker.
The COC and Ozark Conference announced a merger starting this season making an already tough conference even tougher.
For Willard to compete for conference and district titles, they’ll have to navigate a litany of local football powers.
“My coaching philosophy for the Willard Tigers this season will be based upon consistency,” said McFarland. “We have to learn how to prepare to play our best game every single week.
“We cannot allow the name on our opponent’s jersey, or the logo on their helmet to have any impact on our preparation or performance. If the 2024 Willard Tigers cultivate the ability to perform on a very consistent, high level, we will count the 2024 season as a success.”
Willard will jamboree at Parkview with the Vikings, Bolivar and Cassville on Aug. 23 before opening the season at rival Ozark on Aug. 30. The Tigers will see former Willard coach Frank Tristian and his Glendale Falcons in Week 2.
