FAIRFIELD, Texas — The Fairfield Eagles showed marked improvement in the win column in 2021, moving from one to four victories. This season, they are looking to take the next step toward a playoff run.
At the heart of Fairfield's squad is a core group of 20 seniors, many of whom have played on varsity each of the last three seasons.
"There's a lot of experience coming back, and they're doing a great job of not only doing football well, but helping coach the younger kids as well," head coach John Bachtel said.
Among those seniors is running back Eli Martin, a four-year starter, who will likely be a key contributor in the backfield.
"This is our last year, so every play can be our last play," he said. "We've gotta give it our all each play. So it's really important that every single time we go on the field, we give it our all every single play."
This offseason, the Eagles brought in a new offensive coordinator and have spent a considerable amount of time adjusting to the new system. In 2021, Fairfield scored more than 30 points only once.
As they get used to the new scheme, Bachtel expects the defense to carry the offense through the first few weeks. Fairfield brings back seven starters on that side of the ball.
"I mean, I think our D-line is really stacked this year," senior defensive end Kolby Adams said. "We have three really good edge rushers, and then two absolute dogs in the middle. So I think our D-Line up front will be good, which should help our defense out a lot."
2022 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE:
8/26 vs Rusk 7:30
9/2 at Brownsboro 7:30
9/9 vs Madisonville 7:30
9/16 at Robinson 7:00
9/23 at Eustace* 7:30
9/30 vs Malakoff* 7:30
10/7 at Mexia* 7:30
10/14 vs Groesbeck* 7:30
10/21 at Kemp* 7:30
10/28 Open
11/4 vs Teague* 7:30
*District Game
Click here for more 2022 season previews.
