ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) — The Auburn Knights have been trying to build back up their football program since Dan Appino stepped down as head coach after the 2017 season. The last two years the Knights won a total of one game. The program is starting over again with new head coach Hosea Harris.
Hosea Harris was part of Dan Appino’s coaching staff when the Knights won back-to-back conference championships in 2015 and 2016. Both of those teams reached the state quarterfinals in the playoffs. Harris knows that good things can happen at Auburn in football.
He’s at the launch point of trying to do big things again here.
“Right now it’s getting these guys, building these guys to compete. I want to put a team on the field that can compete with anybody. I know that’s a lot of work, but we have talent here.”
“These coaches have created a lot of organizational development. We’re way more organized, way more disciplined in the practices,” said senior receiver/defensive back Tony Lepien. “Our players are responding well to the new coaches.”
If there is a preseason MVP on this team, it’s Tony Lepien. He has big-play speed that will be used at defensive back, and all over the place on offense.
“I’ve been practicing in almost every position on the field, excluding the linemen positions. I’ve been in the backup quarterback position. I’ve been outside receiver, inside (receiver) and on defense I’ve been safety and corner.”
“I’m going to use him in every way possible,” said Harris.
Taking over at quarterback is senior Alonzo Herbig. At 6’1 235 pounds, he’s built more like a middle linebacker. He can run with the ball, and he has a strong arm. He just needs experience back there and a chance to refine his skills. He has never played quarterback before.
“Yea, never in my life,” said Herbig. “I’ve never played quarterback
What went through his mind when coach Harris said, ‘Hey, can you play quarterback for us this year?’
“What went through my mind was stepping up. Stepping up and being a leader on the team is a very important part of this team.”
“He’s got a great arm,” said Harris of Herbig. “We’re working on footwork and just being calm in the pocket and seeing things.”
Junior Artese Donaldson will be a playmaker for the Knights at receiver and cornerback.
“He’s going to be, he’s a lockdown corner for us right now,” said Harris.
Harris is also high on freshman receiver safety Darrel Jeter Jr. Brandon Parker will be a big piece on defense at linebacker.
“He’s a sophomore, but he’s a football player that loves to get his nose dirty, get in there and hit people,” said Harris.
Leading the way on the lines for Auburn will be 6’2 266 pound senior Treysin Coleman.
For more coverage of the Auburn Knights and high school football in the 815 this season, watch ‘Overtime’ Friday nights’ on FOX 39 following Packers preseason football and then college football action.