New group? Same results. Reitz football off to another undefeated start

EVANSVILLE — Landon McClarney had waited for this opportunity.

The Reitz senior got some extended run last October when injuries hit. Most of his varsity career to this point though had been sideline duty, maybe the occasional minute in the fourth quarter. He wasn’t the lone Panther itching to see the field. Patience was required after sitting behind a group that returned the program to winning.

The benefit for Reitz? This new group still has talent. It’s still winning football games too.

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The No. 5 Panthers extended their regular season-win streak to 21 with a 28-14 victory against Jasper on Friday at Reitz Bowl. The final score was closer than they preferred. Reitz only blamed itself based on its week of practice. A win is still a win. One which could be advantageous if the postgame lessons are heeded.

“Our guys never put their head down,” said Reitz coach Cory Brunson. “I’m pleased on the effort, (but) we did not prepare like a championship team. That’s our main goal. Focus better.”

Reitz won conference championships in 2022 and 2023, both by three full games. Most of that core group graduated including eight All-Southern Indiana Athletic Conference selections. Some programs may not reload from such a talent exodus.

Yet, the Panthers are one of seven undefeated teams remaining in Southwestern Indiana. Not all performances so far have been equal. But there’s been enough positives to stake their claim as a championship contender.

“We have to play to win,” said junior Azhari Jackson. “No matter what team it is. (The last group) taught me leadership and integrity. Help each other out to get through the moments.”

What went well on Friday? The defense produced three turnovers and limited the Wildcats (1-2) to 257 yards. Jackson set the tone on the first series with a tackle for loss followed by a 32-yard scoop and score on the next play. AJ Coates also had a team-high 11 tackles.

Preparing for Jasper’s option offense is never easy. The defensive unit more than received a passing grade. The first touchdown allowed came after a muffed punt on a short field. Jack Levin led the Wildcats with 73 yards rushing. Eliot Smith had 67 yards and a touchdown but missed the second half with an injury. It was arguably Jasper's best showing this season despite the result.

“Jasper was very physical,” said Brunson. “You don’t see (their offense) every week. Our scout offense can’t simulate that. We preached to our guys watch film. (The defense) did a lot of good things.”

Reitz is also finding offensive playmakers each week. Jasseim Ussery was the standout in week one against Harrison. Jamontre Johnson did a little bit of everything at Vincennes Lincoln. Against Jasper, it was McClarney.

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The senior had the hot hand with 209 rushing yards and two total touchdowns. When the Panthers needed to put the victory on ice, his number was called. McClarney caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from Ben Davies on a screen in the third quarter. Another 20-yard score with 6:26 left put Reitz up 28-14.

McClarney unofficially has 369 yards and four touchdowns through three games.

“He played hard,” said Brunson. “He and Jasseim rotate. They both play defense. He got the hot hand and kept with him. He’s a senior captain and does a great job out there.”

Why is the team still a work in progress? Again, the week of practice leading in wasn’t sharp. The Panthers gave the ball away twice plus had six penalties for 54 yards. The team saw the past two years in the postseason how critical mistakes can be amplified.

Reitz also must avoid injuries as best as possible. Ashton Leach caught a touchdown in the second quarter but later left with a lower-body injury, requiring a cart to leave the field. But all in all, the first chapter of the season was a net positive. A 3-0 start is the optimal outcome even if continued improvement is required.

A new group is emerging to keep the team in contention for championships.

“I’ve been waiting for this,” said McClarney. “I got a couple games (last year) when the starting running backs were hurt. I love playing varsity. Excited for the future. We definitely need to condition and work on our attitude.”

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: New group? Same results. Reitz football off to another undefeated start