The Prairie Fire had a big offensive season a year ago. This year the team -- led by a new head coach -- will work to keep moving the football and improving all aspects of the game.

Coach Damon Tomeo has 35 returning players from last year's squad that ranked third in the Midwest Conference in points per game (31.1) and set a new school record for points scored in a season (311). The offense is expected to be strong again with eight returning starters, including three All-MWC selections: senior running back Derek Mortensen, senior offensive lineman Jordan Willits, and senior tight end Neal Moon.

Tomeo said everything stems around getting better. "The big challenge for us is to work for improvement every day." He said the offense should be fun to watch, especially with Mortensen (1,362 rushing yards, 17 touchdowns in 2012 -- both school records) who needs 542 yards this season to set the all-time mark for rushing yards in a career. "On offense it's real important that we stay healthy and be consistent," Tomeo added.

The players and the coaching staff are also trying to tighten the other side of the football.  "Defensively, it's maturing everybody.  It's a new scheme and we're starting over, but I think our guys are really excited about playing in this scheme," Tomeo said.

The team held a scrimmage for the public on August 29 at the Knosher Bowl. Preseason football photos, including the scrimmage, are available at http://www.flickr.com/photos/knoxcollege/sets/72157634950253124/