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SOUTH BEND — Although it’s Jay Johnson’s ninth season overall coaching the South Bend Washington football program, it’s just his second with the current group of players.
After a four-year hiatus, Johnson returned to lead the Panthers in 2023. They went 3-8, including a sectional quarterfinal win over Plymouth. As the veteran coach works to build up the Washington program, he hopes year two of his return goes smoother than year one.
“They’re more accustomed to me and the staff, how we coach, what we want and what the expectations are,” Johnson said. “It definitely makes it a little easier not being the first year back, not really knowing what to expect.”
High school football: Complete South Bend area coverage of the 2024 season
Stability at quarterback for Washington
While several South Bend area teams figure out who their starting quarterback will be in week one, Washington has its figured out in senior Gabe Weber. As a junior, Weber passed for 883 yards and nine touchdowns, including three in the playoff victory over Plymouth. That year of experience under his belt has made getting ready for this season much easier.
“I feel way more comfortable this year,” Weber said. “Last year was my first year playing football in high school, and I really had no idea what I was doing. This year, it’s completely different. I know what’s happening on every play, I know how to read a defense. The coaches have helped me a lot. I’m just way more comfortable and excited for this year.”
South Bend Washington senior quarterback Gabe Weber, middle, throws a pass during a drill in practice Friday, Aug. 9, 2024.
Weber has some familiar targets back around him, including junior wide receiver Jaydon Lineberry, who led the team with 19 catches, 357 yards and five touchdowns a season ago. A couple of basketball players…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/preview-comfort-level-south-bend-080508711.html
Author : South Bend Tribune
Publish date : 2024-08-15 08:05:08
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