MADISON TOWNSHIP — In 2023, the Madison Rams are looking for one simple thing — consistency.
After hiring their third head football coach in three years, gaining some consistency will start from the very top.
Madison brings in veteran coach Brent Besancon, a Smithville product who coached his alma mater as an assistant and head coach, to bring that consistency. And Besancon has a lot to work with. The Rams return 10 lettermen on offense and seven on defense to make 17 total lettermen back from last year’s 1-9 squad.
“We look to improve every week,” Besancon said. “Getting better every week is key for our program and our kids’ success. Most importantly, being physical every play is going to be a major factor this season.”
The Rams have the luxury of bringing back their starting quarterback to run Besancon’s pro-style offense. Junior Camron Kuhn was an honorable mention All-Northwest District player in Division III last season. He threw for 1,266 yards and nine touchdowns a year ago and will look to flourish under a new head coach and a year of experience behind him.
Eli Lewis slides into the starting running back role after seeing limited action last season, but he has fullback Will Kepple ahead of him leading the way. Kepple earned first team All-Ohio Cardinal Conference and honorable mention All-Northwest District honors a year ago on defense.
Grayson Sasis and Owen Wigton will be the starting receivers with Brady O’Brien at tight end. Sasis had 112 yards receiving and a touchdown last year.
Gage Masters and Jaxin Stancombe are locked in a position battle at left tackle while Rico Palacios will start at left guard. Michael Shanberger and Landyn Young will both see time at center with Cooper Balas and Nate Weightman battling it out at right guard. Preston Martin will play right tackle.
“The offensive line is big and will bring a physical attitude to the line of scrimmage,” Besancon said. “We also have some explosive players out wide with big play capability.”
Travis…
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