Niwot football leaning on returning talent

Year two of the Coach Nik Blume era will commence at 7 p.m. on Aug. 27 when the Niwot football team opens its season at Greeley Central. The Cougars struggled with a 1-6 record in 2020 but anticipate their returning core taking the next step.

Niwot's two biggest losses of the offseason came with the graduation of former quarterback Ayden Bartko and two-way talent Cooper Ackerman. Their replacements? Junior Ben Classen is set to take the reins at quarterback while Ackerman's younger brother, Jackson, will be a prominent senior wideout and strong safety.

Classen, who was a tight end in 2020, shifts over to QB but that doesn't mean he'll neglect his athletic strengths according to Blume: "His ability to run the football as a quarterback is going to be a problem for some teams."

Like many players on Niwot's roster, Classen's contributions won't be restricted to one position. His 11 total tackles led the Cougars last season and he'll continue as a starting linebacker. The term "dual-threat quarterback" may have to be redefined for Classen heading into 2021.

The new QB won't be alone in being an offensive playmaker, however, with seniors Thomas Carnegie and Easten Leatherwood in the backfield. Carnegie broke out in Niwot's season finale win last year when he rushed for an impressive 227 yards against Thornton.

"He's going to get a lot of carries and we're hoping he can put us in a good spot and help Ben get comfortable early being his first year as the quarterback," Blume said of Carnegie. "It's always nice when you can rely on a senior running back to carry some of the heavier load early."

As for Leatherwood, Blume believes he has taken "huge strides" in becoming a leader and improving his mental game. Leatherwood has been managing a bone chip in his foot resulting from a baseball season injury, but declined to have surgery in order to play this fall. He looks to be a swiss army knife for the Cougars,if he can stay healthy, and looks to see time at cornerback, running back and even punter.

Classen's options continue with senior wide receiver Craig Wright back in the mix. Wright was Bartko's most relied upon target last year en route to accumulating 465 yards and six touchdowns in 20 receptions.

A week before its season opener, Niwot visited Northfield High in Denver on Aug. 20 to take part in a four-team scrimmage. Blume said his confidence in the offensive and defensive lines was confirmed throughout the day.

Senior Bryce Nemec was a standout player on the D-line last year, but Blume also expects big things from senior Brad Bair. The offensive line features Bair as well as sophomore Gavin Burrage, who will protect Classen's blind side at left tackle. Another sophomore, Garrett Eker, impressed Blume with his offseason work ethic and earned himself a starting spot at tight end.

Depth may not be a strong suit for Niwot but for those who are on the field, Blume believes they are better prepared compared to the COVID-related uncertainties preceding 2020.

"We are leaps and bounds ahead of where we were a year ago," Blume said. "It's the second year of the offensive and defensive system so guys that are returning are more comfortable in their positions."

Blume will once again organize the defense as its coordinator while Matthew Martz returns as the offensive coordinator. In the lower levels of Niwot football, at least a junior varsity team will be fielded and led by wide receivers coach Shane Tow.

After playing last season's home games at Erie High, Niwot will be back at Longmont's Everly-Montgomery Field to face Severance for the first home game in week two on Sept. 2. The Cougars will compete in the 3A North Central 3 League and are searching for their first winning season since 2008.