On Friday night, the Rocklin Thunder football team wrapped up their preseason with a dominant scrimmage performance ahead of next week’s opener against Turlock. Offensive coach Tim Kenney said the main focus was on effort and physicality, and the team delivered. “On the defensive side of the ball, guys were running to the football. I thought we played physical tonight,” Kenney said. “That’s really encouraging going into this first game against Turlock.”
Kenney highlighted the play of transfer wide receiver Aidan Jepsen, who scored twice in his first varsity action after coming over from Whitney High School. He also praised the leadership of senior quarterback Reeve Slone, now in his third year as the starter. “He totally understands the offense, him and I are thinking on the same wavelength. He makes everybody better,” Kenney said. Junior Andrew Hancock, making his first varsity start, added, “After a long offseason and a lot of hard work, our chemistry is great and the hard work paid off.”
The Thunder’s young offensive line and running back group impressed their coach, and the defense forced multiple big plays early. Senior Braelyn Frost, who came up with an interception on the first drive, said, “Our wide receivers are definitely a big part of our offense, they’re good all around and are going to help us out this whole year.” With a healthy roster heading into Week 1, Kenney said he’s eager to see his veterans lead and his younger players step up. “We’ve got a lot of good young guys who are eager. Now we’ll see what we can do against Turlock on Friday.”
