Newcomers Have Scots Optimistic About Depth of Offense

High turnover in the starting lineup is hardly unusual for Highland Park. It’s an annual challenge the Scots are adept at handling.

However, having a battle for the starting quarterback job linger into August does present atypical questions the HP offense will have to address. Plus, all of the skill players will be new for a unit looking to replicate its usual high-scoring proficiency.

Head coach Randy Allen is confident in the depth of the talent surrounding the new signal caller, whether it’s seniors Sam Montgomery or Anderson Jackson, or an underclassman.

“We have some guys who are quality players who are used to winning,” Allen said. “As the season progresses, we’re hoping to get better because we’ll get more experience.”

After missing much of last season with an injury, James Lancaster is healthy and ready to take over as the primary running back.

Bryce Laczkowski is moving to cornerback, so all seven of the top receivers from last season are gone. Paxton Smith and Benton Owens should be top targets in the slot, while Brandon Lilly and Cannon Bozman will lead the outside threats, although the Scots will spread the ball around as usual.

“We have a bunch of young guys, especially at the skill positions. We know that,” Lancaster said. “There’s no doubt we’re all going to step up.”

The offensive line has significantly more varsity experience. Grayson Davenport and Gage Clark both return on the right side, as does left guard Will Ogle. Stuart Allday shifts to left tackle.