TEAM OUTLOOK

Two-time state champion at Montague Pat Collins has continued his rebuild of the West Ottawa program, and their play in his fourth season on the field in 2024 may match the level of their top-in-the-state stadium that opened two seasons ago. This is a team that has a lot of strong returning talent after making some noise in the OK-Red last year.

Dual threat QB Connor Knapp returns for his second season at the keys of the Panthers spread offense, a senior with a quick release and good size as a runner, he punctuates a lot of what this team does well. And, a big part of what this team does well is get the ball to Kayden Forbes – the fourth-year starting senior tailback has size, speed, athleticism – he’s simply one of the best backs in the state, and can be used in a variety of ways. Out wide they return several two and three year starters, including the likes of Ruben Esparza, Dylan Vruggink, and Caleb Montgomery (who also will serve as a change-of-pace back along Forbes). Brady Grasmanis will return to anchor the offensive line at guard. 

Defensively, junior Elijah Reynolds, a big middle linebacker, is back for a second season in the middle of things. Quinn Basselin is a long and athletic DE that will be looking to create some havoc, and Tai Hescott is a terrific tackling safety that makes his return in 2024.