WINNSBORO, Texas — Winnsboro had a successful 2023 season going undefeated for 12 weeks until falling to the eventual state champion Malakoff Tigers.
Last year, they had the dynamic duo of quarterback Kyler Finney and receiver Will Wilcox, but both of those key playmakers have graduated.
Junior quarterback Nolee Carroll looked up to Kyler's leadership and learned from his work ethic. He knows he has big shoes to fill, but he's confident in his talent.
"I'm pretty fast, not saying Kyler wasn't, but I think I'm quicker," Carroll said. "He's a great passer, and I think I am too. We both have confidence in our game."
The Red Raiders fell to Malakoff 58-20, so they're taking this year's matchup personally since Malakoff is now in their district.
"Our competition is stacked; Mount Vernon, Malakoff, there are no slouches," Carroll said. "We definitely have to step up our game, but I think we can handle it. We handle everything they throw at us."
Coach Finney wants the team to take this season one game at a time and focus on bettering themselves every week. Winnsboro will start the season at Tatum on Aug. 29 at 7 p.m.