In the mix
In Santo Head Coach Devon Mann’ s career, he’ s never dealt with season-ending injuries to his players until the last two seasons.
2023 saw the loss of an allstate quarterback in week one, leading to a 3-7 record. With high hopes for the following season, 2024 was also plagued by injuries as the Wildcats’ best running back tore his ACL, one lineman tore his ACL, another tore his MCL and one kid broke his arm. Santo finished the year 4-6.
Entering his 14th season with the program, ninth as head coach, 2023 and‘ 24 are his only losing seasons.
Struggling to balance the“ next man up mentality” with the constant adjustments made that featured position changes, Mann remained optimistic about a group that gave tough opponents trouble.
“ The kids never batted an eye and kept fighting,” Santo’ s head coach said.“ We haven’ t really had an excuse for any of it, but it’ s exciting moving forward with these younger guys and having their chance at seeing what they can do.”
For 2025, it’ s about returning to the mix of winning seasons and district championships for the Wildcats.
“ We are going to be youthful in some spots, but I’ m excited about the caliber of athlete they can grow into,” said Mann.
Mann’ s belief in the youth began with the surge in numbers during summer workouts. Santo’ s eighth-grade team went 8-1 and JV lost two games all season to formidable opponents.
Offense
Youth comes in different ways for the Wildcat offense. Not much is younger than the sophomore quarterback who’ s turning heads in multiple sports for Santo and now gets the opportunity to add football to the list with Rylan Griffith.
Given a sign of approval from his head coach, who said he would“ take off this season,” Griffith allows Santo to implement a pistol / option offense.
“ I see my strengths as being mobile and get the ball out quick on passes while making smart reads,” Griffith said.“ I’ m blessed to be given the opportunity to be
46 FIRST DOWN | AUGUST 2025