One Game in: What Have We Learned About This Year’s Football Team?

The Rangers opened their first varsity tackle football game of the season with a statement, defeating Dinuba 42-14 after a summer of preparation. The win gave the team more than just a victory; it provided an early look at what this year’s team can do.

By Kylee Santillan

“This is the kind of team that they can achieve whatever they set their minds to.” says David Clements, Defensive Coordinator.

Clements believes this team is just as talented as some of the best teams he’s coached while being at Redwood. With the first game going as he had expected, Clements emphasizes the importance of taking the season one game at a time.

“We played and executed really well, and got past some of the first game jitters.” says Clements.

Looking further into the schedule, the Rangers have some tough competitors in the coming weeks, some being back to back. These games will give the team a chance to continue building off of their strong start, testing what they have been working on so far this season.

With high expectations from the coaching staff, the players are also looking forward to seeing what they can accomplish this season.

Qur’an Goodman ‘29 shared his thoughts after the first game. “Last year, the seniors played a big role, and we just gotta step it up now.” 

A moment during the game that stood out to Goodman was when he nearly fumbled a toss. After getting hit from the side, he managed to stay on his feet, nearly scoring.

He also noted that communication is one thing the team can continue to improve.

For Goodman, a successful season would look like winning a Central Valley Championship and potentially a state championship.

Going into week two, the Rangers have another opportunity to learn from their mistakes and build on their strengths.

If the team can develop and maintain the same determination we saw in their opening game, the Rangers could put themselves in a position to have another successful season and potentially a deeper postseason run.

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