Written by: Brandon Baney
It’s hard to not get excited when looking at the offensive potential of the Snake River Panthers in 2024.
It’s true that a new quarterback must be found after two-year starter Payton Williams graduated. But whoever takes the reins of the Snake River offense is in good hands.
That’s because Snake River’s top three receivers are all back this year. Seniors Johnny Walker, Marcus Coombes and Justin Wray provide a nice cadre of weapons on the perimeter. Walker broke off several long touchdown receptions a year ago, and Coombes is a 6-foot-6 matchup nightmare.
If that weren’t enough, bell-cow running back Johnny Jones also returns to the Snake River offense.
On defense, senior safety Rylan Ibarra leads a group of solid, sturdy athletes.
Most coaches agreed in our preseason coaches poll: Snake River is the favorite to once again claim the South East Idaho Conference championship.
But veteran coach Jeff Dalley, in his second stint as the Panthers’ head man, is aiming his sights higher. In his first time through the Snake River hallways, Dalley led the Panthers to two state championships, including Snake River’s most recent title in 2014.
Dalley has scheduled aggressively in 2024, loading up on a who’s who of 4A superpowers: defending champ Sugar-Salem, runner-up Teton, semifinalist Homedale, and quarterfinalist Kimberly. Class 5A Preston and South Fremont round out the non-conference slate.
Marsh Valley, American Falls and league newcomer Bear Lake all await in South East Idaho Conference play. But if Snake River can avoid the injury bug, the Panthers could be in prime position for a top seed come playoff time.