By Frank Vajcner
Bedford took steps forward in the second year under John Phillips. What does Year 3 yield for the Mules, especially one that will be on a brand new turf field?
Head Coach: John Phillips (10-7, third year)
Assistant Coaches: Jay Lake, Chris Wilhelm, James O’Brien, DJ Lutz, Bryan Dye, Jerimiah Harris, Dave Livingston, Nick Kledzik, Scott Szakovitz, Rick Schoch, Matt Phillips, Matt Brown. Don Stewart
Offense: The veer, or flexbone triple option, whatever you choose to call it, was much more explosive for the Mules, as they averaged just over 35 points per contest last season. Three starters return on the offensive line in Ethan Manger, Connor Green, and Jake Burton. Tyler Boerst returns at RB, and will look to be the primary option running the ball. Phillips said that Boerst is “bigger and faster” heading into this season. Trey Bruggeman will also be one to watch at FB. At QB, Caleb Kochendoerfer (or “Kochy,” as he is better known as), will be at the controls. He will have two solid targets in TE Tommy Huss and WR Brendan Korsnack.
Defense: Huss is coming off of an all-SEC Red season at DE, and will be counted on again to anchor the defensive line. Joining Huss up front will be Robbie Gossard and Manger. Bruggeman returns to lead the linebacking corps, while the secondary will be headlined by Kochendoerfer and Luke Davis.
Coach’s Outlook: This is an exciting time to be a Bedford Kicking Mule – new turf, new lights, new uniforms, a successful summer – all have us looking forward to great things in the 2022 season.
FNV Outlook: Is this the year for Bedford to get over the hump in the SEC-Red? If Phillips and company want to stake their claim at the top, look no further than Weeks 4 and 7 with road trips to Saline and Ann Arbor Huron. There’s also a visit from arch-rival Monroe in Week 6.
To those commenting about injuries. We are aware. We prefer not to air them on here.