RGR | Jake Schmidt and Luke Hirsh inactive for Newton-Maize South matchup
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When Newton takes the field against Maize South on Friday night for another round of Ark Valley-Chisholm Trail League Division 1 play, the Railers will be without two of their top contributors.
Senior wide receiver Jake Schmidt — who suffered a lower-body injury in the second half of the team’s loss to Hutch last week — has been ruled out for Newton’s matchup with the league-leading, undefeated Mavericks.
Additionally, senior defensive back Luke Hirsh has also been ruled out.
In his last full-game outing two weeks ago, Schmidt recorded 3 catches for 61 yards and a touchdown against Maize. He’s been sophomore quarterback Colby Gomez’s go-to pass-catcher, bailing the young passer out of trouble on numerous occasions.
These absences will force younger role players to step up. Wide receiver Isaac Klug has had an impressive junior campaign thus far, but will now have the full attention of Maize South’s defense. The Railers’ secondary is their most experienced unit — so don’t expect a massive dip in production there.
It’s unknown if Schmidt will play next week. He’s considered week-to-week.
Brett is a freelance reporter covering the 2021 Newton (KS) High School football team and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD (TX) 5A high school football. To stay updated, subscribe by completing the field above. Follow Brett on Twitter (@brettaesch) for up-to-the-minute coverage. Thanks for reading.