MERIDIAN, Idaho — The Meridian Warriors have been in the middle of the 5A Southern Idaho Conference since 2013.
Last season, they somehow managed to sneak into the 5A state playoffs with a 3-6 record, ultimately falling to Madison in the first round.
But with a new coach, ten returning starters on the offensive line and six all-conference players back this season, the Warriors believe they have what it takes to be a top contender in the 5A SIC.
Former NFL linebacker and Idaho State football head coach John Zamberlin takes over the program from Mike Virden, who departed after just one year.
"It's exciting," Zamberlin said. "I really enjoy the kids."
One of those kids is senior offensive lineman Tyler Barron, who says he is optimistic about where this year's squad is headed.
"I think we can be all-state, all of us," Barron said. "The physicality up front is kind of unbeatable. I think that we have the [meanest] o-line in the state."
Returning at quarterback for the Warriors is senior Braden Honn, who says this season, he's more confident than ever.
"It will definitely help this season, just having that experience," Honn said.
The Warriors will need a little help on the defensive side of the ball after losing first-team all-conference defensive back Javen Woodall to graduation.
GRADUATED
- Javen Woodall (DB - first team)
- Tyler Bremer (P - second team)
- Colby Oskolkoff (DL - honorable mention)
RETURNING
- Tyler Barron (OL - first team)
- Cole MacDonnell (flex - second team)
- Davis Thacker (WR - honorable mention)
- Micah Franklyn (TE - honorable mention)
- Trey Hessing (OL - honorable mention)
- Emmitt Sallee (LB - honorable mention)
SCHEDULE
8/30 vs. Skyview - 7 p.m.
9/6 at Eagle - 7 p.m.
9/13 vs. Timberline - 7 p.m.
9/21 at Borah - 11 a.m.
9/27 vs. Capital - 7 p.m.
10/4 at Centennial - 7 p.m.
10/11 vs. Rocky Mountain - 7 p.m.
10/17 at Boise - 7 p.m.
10/25 vs. Mountain View - 7 p.m.
Stay up to date and get breaking news notifications: Download the KTVB news app