Preview: Football vs. Gardner-Edgerton

The Lancer football squad takes the field for the first time tonight against the large and athletic Gardner-Edgerton Blazers. Last season, the Lancers went 11-2 and came second in state. It was a historic run for the team, and an explosive start to head coach Dustin Delaney’s career.

Tonight, Delaney will face Gardner-Edgerton for his first time as the Lancers head coach. Delaney expects tonight’s game to be one of the toughest of the season, as Gardner will be fielding one of the largest defensive lines in the state.

The Blazers were 8-2 last season, falling to Olathe East in the regionals round of state playoffs. The team will have a strong running offense, led by runningback Jadon Pearson-Bruce. The Lancers will be playing at Gardner-Edgerton, which Delaney described as an intense atmosphere that will up the pressure for his team.

With 16 returning starters, the Lancers field an experienced team. Senior quarterback Gunnar Englund took charge of last year’s offense in the playoffs after starting quarterback Christian Blessen was benched due to a back injury. Englund led the team to state, throwing for 450 yards and four touchdowns.

On the defensive end, Delaney expects senior Kyle Ball to penetrate offensive lines and force offensive mistakes. Last year, Ball racked up 101 tackles and eight sacks, earning interest from Division I teams. Ball backs up an experienced defensive line that will be key for the Lancers’ success this year.

Kick off is at 7 p.m. at Gardner-Edgerton. Can’t make it to the game? Watch the live broadcast here.

Tonight’s game is at Gardner-Edgerton. Here is a map so you don’t get lost: