Thresher football set for conference opener against McPherson
Saturday's matchup is set for 6 p.m. at Thresher Stadium.
The long-awaited football season is finally here, as the Threshers prepare for their conference opener this Saturday, Sep. 3 against the McPherson College Bulldogs.
After last year’s lengthy matchup at McPherson, including many lightning and rain delays, causing the game to end at 1:07 a.m., the Threshers hope that the outcome remains similar. The Threshers beat the Bulldogs 24-0 in the 2021 season.
“Last year we obviously had a great start to the season. Having to endure three weather delays against McPherson and still managing to come out on top was a big confidence boost for us,” senior Brayden Francis from Sedgwick, Kan., said.
During last season’s contest, the Threshers held the Bulldogs to a total of 168 offensive yards, while the Threshers earned a total of 359 yards.
This will not only be A.B. Stokes' first official matchup as head coach, but first conference game.
“There are a few nerves going in, but it's to be expected when you want to perform your best and there are things outside of our control that factors into play. Ultimately, I trust God has a plan and either way we're going to give it our all,” Stokes said.
This will also be the Bulldogs' first game of the season, putting the pressure on McPherson as they face the #23 nationally-ranked Threshers.
“We know it’s going to be a tough game and a good test for us early on, but if we are confident in our abilities to make the plays I know we can make, then we will be just fine. We’ve been battle-tested many times over the last couple of years...with the group that we have...I think we have a team that is going to be relentless,” Francis said.
Coach Stokes hopes to honor Bethel fans, students, and alumni at Saturday's contest.
“My expectations are to play a great clean game in a way that honors God, these players, coaches, trainers and their families, and the great institution of Bethel College. I don't really worry about the expectations of others because I have my own set of expectations to focus on. We do what we can in a manner that represents this program (past and present) in a positive light and hope our preparation pays off,” Stokes said.
Make sure to get out and support the football team on Saturday at 6 p.m. at Thresher Stadium.