Saturday morning on Bob Green field at Montana Tech, the athletes of Butte Central showed that the Maroon Football team will once again be a contender for the Class A football title.

With eight starters back on both sides of the ball, the Maroon’s bring back a ton of experience.  Add to that a year of growth and strength since last season, this years’ team is ready to to return to the class A playoffs.

Coach Donnie Peoples, entering his 33rd year at the helm of BC Football, was impressed with the athleticism his players displayed in Saturday’s scrimmage. “We have a number of guys that have developed physically in the off season, and in-experienced guys that have stepped up and are improving every day.”

Peoples is expecting a strong passing game.  ” I really like the way Jack Keeley is playing at Quarterback with a very strong arm and with big receivers, the passing game will be our biggest strength.”  Coach was also impressed with the running game led by running back Konnor Pochervina behind a very large experienced offensive line.  Pochervina showed his ability to make quick cuts to the open field and the speed to run away from defenders.

Keeley showed off his arm throughout the scrimmage throwing four long touchdown passes, two of those to Kyle Holter and two to Rye Doherty.  Keeley also connected over the middle and down the sideline with his big tight-end Eric Loos, who showed he will be tough to stop once the ball was in his hands.

Once again the Maroon defense was swarm tackling the ball led by defensive ends Eric Loos,  Junior Zane Moodry and Pochervina from the middle linebacker spot.  The defensive line dominated the line of scrimmage.

The Maroon’s are building the season on the energy and confidence from last years State Basketball championship and this summers Butte Miners success as State and Regional Champions.  With members of those teams providing leadership to the 2022 team.

The Maroon’s open the season this Friday at Montana Tech’s Bob Green field against the Polson Pirates.  Kickoff is scheduled for 7pm.

#2 Jack Keeley hands off to #25 running back Konner Pochervina

#17 Kyle Holter jumps to grab the ball for TD

#25 Pochervina runs the ball

Camaraderie

#88 Eric Loos with a big run

Teammates

#12 Dougie Peoples makes the catch and heads for the end zone

Lineup for PAT