After a dominating first half against the Lansing Lions on Friday, Sept. 2, the varsity football team set the bar high for a hopeful season with their 42-21 win.

The defense, led by senior defensive lineman Zach Callahan, offered insight to the power the line delivers. Impressive offense was exhibited by junior running back Kendall Short and senior wide receiver Ethan Rice to rack up a strong score in the first half. Short scored three of the six touchdowns. Rice scored the second touchdown for the Jaguars in the second quarter and caught a pass at the five yard line. Half time began with a score of 35-7, Jaguars.

After returning for the second half, energy lacked among the Jaguars. The Lions scored two touchdowns to bring the score to 35-21. Mishaps such as this lead some players to consider what could be improved to become a better team.

“We need to work on the small things. We play fast and hard, we just need to keep getting better at that and work at getting our technique perfect,” Callahan said.

The team rallied in the fourth quarter and regained confidence as Short went on to score his third touchdown.

“We started off the season right; with a win. We just have to build on that and take this season a game at a time. We have all the tools to have a very successful run this year. We just have to give it our all every time we step onto the field,” Short said.

The next varsity game is at home against Bonner Springs High School at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 9.