Saint Joseph’s rivals on the gridiron look to defeat the Indians for bragging rights in 2020, and they’ll use high-octane offenses to do so. Adams, Penn, and Marian have all started their seasons with impressive showings on the football field, with Adams and Marian starting undefeated, and Penn’s only loss being on a last-second field goal. 

Adams Eagles

     The Eagles are already showing to be a far improved team from last season. Despite losing University of Virginia quarterback Ira Armstead, Adams has shown a far improved offense from a season ago, combining for 84 points over their last two games. Quarterback Gavin Pulling and running back Charles Worsham have been leaders of the offense so far, rushing all over opposing defenses. The run game has been the focal point for the Eagles thus far,  making up the majority of their points in both games. Defensively, the Eagles have been perfect, not allowing a single point from either Washington or Woodlan, and look to stay that way in upcoming matchups. Overall, this is not the same Eagles team that our Indians defeated last year. Instead, they are a team to be watched when they visit Leighton Stadium on September 11th.

Penn Kingsmen

     Although Penn has a record of 1-1, the Kingsmen have not been down more than 5 points this season. The offense has been solid, but this team’s strength lies in its ability to defend. Against LaPorte, the defense managed to force several turnovers, including an early pick-6 by cornerback Tye Zahner. However, the Kingsmen have struggled a bit in late-game areas, giving up a decisive touchdown and the game-winning field goal to Valparaiso in the final 3 minutes,  and giving up 14 points in the fourth quarter to LaPorte. If the Indians are to defeat the Kingsmen when they come to St. Joseph October 2, then they will have to be extremely careful when handling the pigskin.

Marian Knights

     2020’s Marian Knights squad looks to go right back to where they left off last season, and they’ve been able to do just that thus far. Although they may have brand new uniforms, this Marian team has proven to be a similar force to last season’s sectional championship team, A close 44-43 victory against Mishawaka followed by a blowout win against Knox has validated this so far.  Although their defense saw a lot of turnover from last season, they’ve been solid enough to hold opponents. Where the Knights truly shine is their offense. Led by a potent passing attack from quarterback Maddix Bogunia-Bright, and a very strong run game, the Knights have their eyes set on the state title. Combining for 79 points so far, they look well positioned to do so. St. Joseph will face the number-3 team in class 3A on October 16, at Marian, and it will not be an easy battle for the Indians. Most likely, St. Joseph will need to be at full strength for the Holy War this season.