the Elks noted. The offensive line is ready to be the key to Burleson’ s success and to help a new leading back, Nicholas Johnson, thrive.“ We feel like it is our job to be the leaders of the team,” said Beach.“ It feels like it’ s our opportunity, our goal to just absolutely dominate the opponent on every single snap and just run the ball down their throat every single play.” Nate Jackson left big shoes to fill in the backfield. A 1,000-yard rusher last season, Jackson was a mentor to Johnson since his freshman year, helping him read defenses and improve his vision.

Last year, Burleson’ s rusher wanted to earn the trust of the team’ s leaders. Now, with a bond built with teammates like Sparks and Blanchard, Johnson feels safe running behind his offensive line.

“ I feel like they’ re my bodyguards.”.

Defense

Calling the defense a skeleton, Blanchard is one of three senior linebackers who represent the only returners for the Elks. A way Tanner has attempted to lessen the stress of a whole new group is by utilizing position flex, moving guys around and putting the best 11 on the grass.

One example is

linebacker Thomas McGovern. An offensive player his freshman year, McGovern moved to defensive back the following year and now moves down to linebacker.

“ He’ s six kids in one,” said Tanner about McGovern.

The second level may be leaned on early in the season; however, Blanchard mentioned the athletic defensive line and safety Nolen Waterhouse as standouts so far.

“ We’ re going to be another elite defense that’ s going to stop great teams from scoring on us,” Blanchard proclaimed.

RB Nicholas Johnson S Nolen Waterhouse C Bryce Beach

Week 11 vs Joshua( Nov. 6) johnson county gridiron 2026 11