REDZONE 2020: Marengo Panthers
After a 10 win season in 2018, the six win season of 2019, matching the win total of 2016, shook the Marengo Panthers and those who follow them. But that hasn’t changed the philosophy or outlook for head coach Eberne Myrthil. Their goals are still very clear. The Panthers expect to compete for one of the top spots in their region and make a deep run into the playoffs.
However, the Panthers will have some formidable odds to overcome in 2020. Myrthil is working to get a very young team the work it needs to be a contender this season. The Panthers currently have 17 players and will suit up only two seniors and two juniors. That leaves seven positions on both sides of the ball to be filled by sophomores, freshmen or whoever can contribute to the cause. Many of the Panthers will have to play above their age for the team to be successful.
D’Andre Pickett returns for his senior year as the anchor of the offensive line. Not only does Pickett need a great season for himself, but also needs to lead and encourage others along the Panther front.
Deldrick Bouler has plenty experience to pull from and Myrthil looks for him to put up good ground numbers, maybe even in the 1500 yard category. Bouler will have to carry a load on both sides of the ball.
Sophomore Almonte’ Lewis takes the reins of the offense for 2020. Lewis needs to soak up as much as possible to manage the offense and put the Panthers in a position to be successful in attaining their goals.
Anthony Hood, another sophomore, is noted as true leader who loves the game. Defensively, Hood will lead a linebacker corps that will include three new starters for the 2020 campaign.
The Panthers’ situation highlights the obstacles that small schools face during times of adversity. Marengo had fewer than 30 players on last year’s roster. This season, they have fewer than 20. That means a majority of your team will be required to play on both sides of the ball, every single game. There are two other Class1A teams in Marengo County. One of those teams has 34 players on the roster. The other team has 47 players on their roster.
Myrthil and his staff have proven that they are capable coaches and can build an excellent program and achieve phenomenal results. The Panthers just need to stay healthy and put the absolute best product possible on the field that they possibly can.
Most people consider wins as a measuring stick for success. Those who truly understand coaching and sports know that winning is not the only way to measure success. Learning to depend on your teammates, putting forth your best effort and learning how you can work with others to bring out the best in each other can be far more valuable than winning games.