Marshall County Football Preview
Cavs hoping to get the most out of solid group of returnees
CULVER — Consistency has become the by-word of the Culver football program under head coach Mike Zehner and with some nice returning pieces the Cavs appear to be ready to take on the big challenge of the HNAC.
The familiar name returning for a third season is Shane Shuman who has been twice named to the all-state team as a running back.
“Obviously with Shane Shuman back he gives us a chance to win football games,” said Zehner “He’s a two-year all-state guy and a starter for us both offensively and defensively.”
“Steven Pugh has had an outstanding off-season. I’m really excited about the leadership that he’s shown,” said Zehner. “He’s secured anchoring that line with guys like Ben Lee and Devon Burkett. Oliver Morgan who has been playing some tight end and outside linebacker for us is another one that we are very excited about.”
The offense will be led by a new face that brings another type of skill set to the position.
“Jason Cadle will fill the shoes at quarterback that Tucker Fisher did last year,” said Zehner. “Tucker did an amazing job running our offense. Jason doesn’t have the same arm strength but he has the wheels and is a threat to beat you with his feet.”
The only preseason negative for Culver is numbers but one that is a common problem in smaller schools.
“Our numbers are probably not where we want but we lost a lot of guys to graduation and we have some classes with some good players but smaller numbers,” said Zehner. “Ethan Binion will step in and play at that wing spot and Braiden Molebash is another sophomore and I’m excited about those two guys and what they are going to do for us this year with another year under their belt.”
Playing in one of the best football conferences in the state, the Hoosier North Conference schedule is a challenge all its own.
“Top to bottom our conference is tough,” said Zehner. “We’ve had some state champions come out of our conference and that’s what excites me about our conference.