Bishop’s School football relies on underclassmen amid senior injuries

Bishop’s School football coach Shane Walton’s squad suffered many injuries to its senior players, forcing the team to start sophomores and freshmen in their place, and so far, so good, according to the Times of San Diego.

Two linemen have been surprises this season. Senior Cayden Watkins, playing left tackle, leads the team in knockdowns and pancake blocks. Freshman Isaac Smedra plays on the offensive line alongside Watkins, and together they use double-teaming techniques in run-blocking.

Watkins said starting as a freshman was a shock to him, especially playing against older, stronger opponents. He uses technique and strength to compete, including snatch-blocking to control opponents’ arms during pass protection.

The team’s ability to adapt and the performance of its younger players suggest a promising outlook as the season progresses, according to the coach and local sports coverage.