Written By: Sven Alskog
Columbia snapped a streak of missing the playoffs that had dated back to 2011 last season, with star running back Allamar Alexander leading the way for a group that would go on to advance to the state quarterfinals.
Multiple key pieces have departed from that team, and a new head coach takes over as well in Greg Asbury, who is no stranger to success after winning back-to-back state titles at Parma in 2008 and 2009.
The Wildcats are hoping that Asbury can continue the on-field success of a year ago, with wide receivers Jeremiah Brent and Jayden Parker and tight end Iassac Martinez, all of which also lead the way on defense, joining quarterback Austin Collett as returners.
Figuring out a way to generate a run game without Alexander will be a pivotal focus area, as the opposition struggled on a weekly basis to bring down the powerful and fast back over the last few years. Alexander is now on the roster at Boise State.
“Installing a new system is always an interesting endeavor. Our quarterback improved his speed and leads by example. The group is very coachable and fun to be around,” said Asbury.
Expect a different look with a new head coach and some different personnel in place. If the offense can maintain the explosiveness that it displayed in 2018 though, plenty of good things could happen for the Wildcats.
Defensively, Columbia allowed 20 or more points in all but one game last year, including yielding 30 or more in four of the five losses.
We will have very good speed and size in the secondary. Also, we return a lot of players with experience. If our front linemen will play physical, we could be a solid squad,” added Asbury.
Asbury and the Wildcats begin the new era of football at Columbia on August 30 at Emmett.