West Michigan Conference Football Preview 2024: Mason County Central Spartans Season Outlook
Nestled in the heart of Mason County, the MCC Spartans are gearing up for an exciting fall season, ready to take the field and build on their successful campaign from last year. They are coming off of a successful campaign last year, even while losing many key players to injuries. This year, with a blend of returning veterans and promising newcomers, the team looks to host another well-rounded season.
MCC went .500 overall and 4-2 in the league last year, which earned them a both a 3rd place finish and semifinal showing. This year, they will be looking to continue that success. Under the helm is year two Coach Dave Smith, who aided the team in last years journey to a successful season.
Going into this year, they will already be a man short as Senior DB and RB, Elijah Gonzalez, tore his ACL in practice. Even so, the team will capitalize on its returning core. Both seniors now, Peyton Merz and Pierce Bladzik will return as the core of the Spartans’ offensive game. The key to Mason County Central’s success this year is going to be utilizing the experience they have from the returning starters. Both Merz and Bladzik will need to lead the offense and defense, being key contributors on both ends of the ball.
Key Players to Watch
Piece Bladzik, Senior, QB/DB: The senior QB will be the talisman of this new offense. With man key contributors back, he will have the opportunity to shine on the field. He will have targets to hit from the pocket and a great O-Line to give him easy scramble routes.
Peyton Merz, Senior, RB/LB: Merz will be the center piece of the ground game this year. With a great O-Line, the senior will have gaps-o-plenty to hit. He will need to make explosive plays. Look out, he could easily be one of the top RBs in his class this year.
Grayden Wilson, Senior, OL/DL: “The big man in the trenches”, Senior Wilson will need to keep the pocket clear and running slots open for his two skill men behind him. On the defensive end, the experienced defensive lineman will need to lead the team, breaking blocks and forcing scrambles will need to be the epitome of what the Spartans defense will live by and Wilson will be the linchpin of that ideology.
Mason County Central’s first game will be on the road, August 29th, 2024 versus Godwin Heights.
The Spartans’ look poised to make a run this year. Be on the lookout from the, now, more experienced team. They could easily be a contender for deeper playoff run and an over .500 record.
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