Two Newton offensive linemen who were expected to start last year but suffered injuries before the regular season are projected starters for Friday’s season opener at home against Carlisle. Head coach Andy Swedenhjelm expects 255-pound junior Jake Mace-Maynard to do very well.

“He’s a really good player. I think when it’s all said and done, he’s going to be a top offensive lineman in our class. He’s a big, strong, athletic kid.”

Senior Rylan Modlin was the other offensive lineman injured in preseason last year. Coach Swedenhjelm adds that senior Koltt Ahn is back after earning First Team All-District Offensive lineman honors last season, along with another starter from a year ago, senior WIll Rawlins. 

The Newton Cardinal football team scrimmaged at Pella Christian last night, and will open the season on Friday night at home against Carlisle at 7 p.m. You can listen to the broadcast of the Cardinals’ matchup with the Wildcats at kniakrls.com KRLS3 with pregame coverage at 6:30 p.m.