Introduction to the Game
Having a Power Four running back is a rare luxury, especially in the Public League. Young is on that short list with Missouri commit Max Warner, and the Dolphins also have the luxury of keeping Warner fresh by expanding their playbook beyond handing off to him.
The Game Highlights
Warner had 12 touches for 99 yards against Perspectives on Saturday, scoring on a 1-yard run and 48-yard catch-and-run, as Young cruised to a 41-14 road win. The threat of Warner opens up loads of possibilities for Dolphins quarterback Von Konrad, who made plenty of plays with his arm and legs. Konrad was 9-of-16 passing for 182 yards and three touchdowns with one interception. He also ran three times for 46 yards and a TD.
The Value of Experienced Players
It’s hard to overstate the value of having a returning senior quarterback in high-school football. After helping Young reach its first Prep Bowl last season, Konrad came back a stronger, more confident player. “Compared to last year, it’s a whole different game,” Konrad said. “It felt like it was going a million miles an hour. And this year, I feel comfortable, I feel I can take my time. And that’s a lot of credit to the coaches.”
Team Dynamics
Konrad also has a high-level receiver back in senior Miles Baarsma, whose four catches for 99 yards included a 53-yard touchdown. And, of course, there is Warner. “He’s the heart of our offense, he’s the heart of our team,” Konrad said. “Just having him on the field is amazing at all times. And he’ll open up the pass game, but he’ll bust up the run game whenever he wants.”
Defensive Contributions
Another senior making an impact on the other side of the ball for Young is J’Siah Purnell, who had two sacks early to set the tone. “I wanted to start off strong to get my boys going,” Purnell said. “Once the train gets rolling, we don’t stop.” Purnell has done a little of everything for Young over the last two years, and his versatility is a significant asset to the team.
Perspectives’ Performance
Perspectives (0-2) had the play of the day, a 78-yard option pass for a touchdown late in the second quarter. Quarterback Terrian Eubanks pitched to Herman Yancey, who found Masiah Key for the catch-and-run.
Perspectives’ Masiah Key (21) catches a pass for a touchdown against Young.
Kirsten Stickney/For the Sun-Times
Conclusion
Young’s victory over Perspectives showcases the team’s strength and depth, with contributions from key players like Max Warner, Von Konrad, and J’Siah Purnell. As the season progresses, it will be exciting to see how these players continue to develop and lead their team to success.
FAQs
- Q: Who is Max Warner and what is his role in the team?
A: Max Warner is a Missouri commit and a running back for Young. He is a key player who helps keep the team’s offense fresh by expanding the playbook beyond just handing off to him. - Q: What is the significance of having a returning senior quarterback like Von Konrad?
A: Having a returning senior quarterback is highly valuable in high-school football. Von Konrad’s experience and confidence are crucial in leading the team, as evidenced by his performance against Perspectives. - Q: What are the expectations for Perspectives after their 0-2 start?
A: Despite the 0-2 start, coach Terry Jones has confidence in his young team. He believes that playing against strong Metro teams early in the season will prepare them for their conference games and potentially help them return to the top Public League conference, the Metro.
