Another season, another 2-0 start for McDonogh.
“It’s been great. First two games, offense, defense special teams played really well,” said McDonogh Head Coach Dominic Damico.
The Eagles are once again one of the top teams in Maryland and boast a roster that should be able to challenge for the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association A Conference Title.
“We’re a top heavy team. Our top 15 or 20 guys can really play at the national level,” added Damico.
McDonogh only graduated seven seniors from last year’s team. Seven offensive starters return, including quarterback DeJuan Ellis. The senior has committed to Virginia Tech. He led McD to an 8-3 record in 2016.
“I’m just an all-around true dual threat quarterback. Beat you with my feet, beat you with my arm. Do whatever needs to be done to win,” said Ellis.
Defensively the Birds return seven starters as well. The group is led by senior lineman P.J. Mustipher, who will suiting up for Penn State next year.
“I like to get back after the quarterback and I can stop the run. So, I think I’m pretty versatile in the way I play,” said Mustipher. “My motor, I think, is what separates me.”
The early part of the Eagles schedule is the toughest portion of their season. After opening with a home win over La Salle of Philadelphia, they hit the road for five straight. Friday night they travel to powerhouse DeMatha in Prince George's County.
“It’s going to be a competition. It’s going to be warfare, I keep telling these guys. We’re going into battle for 48 minutes,” said Mustipher.
“That’s a big test for us. That’s the final exam right there,” added Ellis.
“If we do win, and when we do win, it will be the biggest win in the school’s history,” said Damico.
Kickoff in Hyattsville between the Eagles and Stags Friday night is at 7 p.m.
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