High School Football Preview: Lincoln Pius X doesn’t want to be overlooked

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) —Lincoln Pius X finished 4-6 in 2024, after sneaking into the playoffs as the 15 seed, and falling just short to Seward in the first round, 21-20.

But now, they’re ready to make some noise.

“Our team as a whole, they’ve done a great job at contributing to everything,” said Zeke Mullendore, a senior starting center.

Pius X will have a new quarterback on the gridiron. But, Head Coach Ryan Kearney is excited about this years offensive line and front seven.

It consists of mostly veteran leadership, that he feels will be a difference maker.

“We’re going to be very heavy senior wise on the o-line, and d-line. That’s really nice when you have experience in the trenches,” Kearney said. “Everybody understands that’s where games are won and lost.”

The Thunderbolts have worked on building team chemistry off the field this season. They say they shouldn’t be overlooked this year.

“Chemistry off the field is important. If you’re not around those guys all the time, you’re not going to play well with them,” said Carter Gokie, a senior Tight End.

But, some players say they shouldn’t be overlooked this year.

“We don’t want to be underestimated. That’s how it’s been the last couple of years,” said Mullendore. “In my earlier years we didn’t have great success, but I think we’re starting to build upon that.”

With their sights set on week one vs. Elkhorn North, there’s still work to be done before taking the next leap.

“It’s not hard to motivate them. They understand there is still a lot of work left to be done,” said Head Coach Ryan Kearney. “We want to be a little more successful on the scoreboard this year.”

Lincoln Pius X will begin their season Friday, Aug 29 vs. Elkhorn North.