Countdown to kickoff: Mark Twain’s familiarity on offense should lead to consistency, success

Mark Twain football players react to making a play during practice as the Tigers look to rebound from a one-win season last fall. | Shane Hulsey photo

CENTER, Mo. — There’s a renewed sense of optimism brewing within the Mark Twain football team. Two years after winning 10 games and reaching the district championship game, the Tigers managed only one victory last season to finish in a three-way tie with Louisiana and North Callaway for last place in the Eastern Missouri Conference.…

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Mark Twain’s Evans putting knowledge, commitment to use as leader for young squad

Mark Twain senior lineman Wyatt Evans, right, is the experienced leader for a team hoping to become a district contender this fall. | Photo courtesy Becca Evans

CENTER, Mo. — Entering his fourth season as a starter and one of only three seniors on the roster, Wyatt Evans sees himself as a de facto coach on the field for the Mark Twain football team. “I want everybody to be able to run our playbook right,” he said. “It’s not just a running…

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JWCC Show-Me Spotlight: Mark Twain’s Preston continually laying groundwork for success

Mark Twain all-purpose back Lakoda Preston, left, has amassed more than 1,400 yards and scored 15 touchdowns this season. | Submitted photo

CENTER, Mo. — Lakoda Preston’s feet are planted firmly on the ground. He plans to keep it that way, even if joining the Air Force becomes part of his future. The Mark Twain multi-sport standout, who is likely headed to college to play football, has designs of joining an ROTC program and earning a bachelor’s…

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Leake gets first win as Mark Twain rolls past South Callaway

Mark Twain's Landon Moss ran for 238 yards and three touchdowns in the Tigers' win over South Callaway.

CENTER, Mo. – It was his first win as a varsity head coach and he did it at his alma mater, but Austin Leake just wanted to talk about his guys. “All I did was stand on the sidelines and hold a piece of paper,” Leake said to his Mark Twain Tigers thrashed Eastern Missouri…

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