In the blistering heat last Saturday morning, the Eldon Mustangs proved too much of a test for the College Prep at Madison Bears, a first-year varsity football program.
Eldon, a two-time defending district champion, rolled over the new blood with a running game powered by Levi Shinn (145 yards, two touchdowns) and quarterback Nick Hendrix (44 yards, one touchdown). Their defense also contributed to the scoring with four interceptions, including one pick-six, and a safety to give the Mustangs a 42-8 victory.
Now, things are about to get a lot tougher.
During the next four weeks, Eldon will face Hogan Prep Academy, Blair Oaks, California and Warsaw in a brutal marathon that could shape the rest of their regular season.
Hogan Prep could offer Eldon a chance to acclimate to the tougher teams in that run with the Tri-County Conference schools.
Hogan Prep had an outstanding regular season in 2013, finishing a perfect 9-0 while allowing a total of only 36 points in those nine games. However, a closer look reveals that most of their opponents last year were middling programs and even a few Class 1 schools. When they had to play Oak Grove in the district championship game, they lost 42-0.
The matchup against Eldon should prove interesting. Hogan Prep obviously has a capable defense if they rarely give up points to what appear to be weak offenses. Yet Eldon's ground assault figures to be a test for Hogan Prep.
Both teams enter the game at 1-0.
Eldon has quite a lot riding on this matchup, as well. If they win this game, the confidence level should be high heading into the run of tough conference contests.
Shinn figures to be the focus of the offense for the Mustangs. He had 100 percent attendance in the weight room this summer and helps Eldon in every area of the game, including on special teams as the Mustangs' kicker. He had multiple touchbacks against Madison on kickoffs.
Josh Johns could also turn in another big performance on the defensive side of the ball. The linebacker had two interceptions and a tackle for loss in the opener.
The Eldon quarterback situation remains up for grabs between Hendrix and Austin Kempker.
Head coach Shannon Jolley said he'd prefer some consistency in the position, but he's happy with the way both of them have been playing.
If one of the two separates himself from the other, expect him to get the starting nod against Blair Oaks next week.