Olten Downs is entering his second year building the football program at New Manchester and his Jaguars are looking to make some noise in Region 5-5A.
New Manchester returns eight starters on defense and six on offense from last year’s team.
“Really, the big thing we're just talking about is our mindset, our effort and attitude, bringing it every day,” Downs said. “I think that's kind of the biggest thing for our guys. I think the expectation is the thing that's the biggest in our group.”
Downs said the linebacker core of Morris Swims, Jonathan Moses and Triston Graham — all juniors — got plenty of reps last year as sophomores and are among the team’s strongest suits this year along with the secondary, including seniors Keymond Maze (S/CB) and Greison McKelvey (DB).
“I think that core right there is the strength of our team,” Downs said.
As part of his program, Downs and his coaching staff are focused on developing leadership and they get a big-time leader in junior quarterback D.J. Alexander, a newcomer to the team.
“You know, he walked in the door and before I really knew anything about him, the kids knew everything about him,” Downs said of Alexander. “And so, you know, he brings a positive light because, you know, he's kind of been a leader here in Douglasville. And so all the kids look at him in a particular way. So it's really been refreshing to have an extension of the coaching staff through him. And the kids definitely look up to him.”
Downs also highlighted senior DE/RB Jaylon “Toto” Turner, “who gets things done for us” and senior offensive lineman Anthony Montoya, who plays center, guard and tackle and is the “leader of our O-Line.”
Downs said when looking at goals, that “of course everybody wants to talk about playoffs.” But he said the main focus is on executing in every game.
“I kind of talk to our team every day about the only team that's going to beat us is this team,” he said.
New Manchester opened the season Thursday night with a 44-0 win over Washington-Atlanta.