Last year, your FTHS Patriots went an even 5-5 on the season, despite posting a near-perfect 4-1 in their division. This year, the team looks to capture the division title for the first time, while also improving play against their non-division opponents.
The team has already started the football season on a high note, winning their first game of the season 35-28 against Neptune High School. This win came courtesy of an amazing performance from junior starting QB, Dakota Lasseter, who notched all five of the team’s touchdowns and marched the Pats to a seamless win. Lasseter has emerged as a vocal leader and offensive force for the team, but with last year’s seniors gone, the team also looks to get star power from new places and is hoping for a great season from junior wide receivers Jake Schutzel and George Burdge. With a senior-heavy offensive line, the junior quarterback should be well-protected throughout the year, and in a prime position to thrive in the Pats’ patented air-raid offense.
Flipping to the defensive side of the ball, the team hopes to bolster its defensive prowess from last year, as it proved to be a source of weakness and a large contributing factor to numerous losses. DL Dom Fiore and star LB Jonathan Kokotis should help immensely, as they bring senior experience and fast-paced firepower to this Patriots defense and are ready to show that their production and disruptiveness last season were no mistake. Jumar Irvin is slated to continue lining up against (as well as locking down) the #1 receiver on opponents to come, and Jake Rattiner looks to be a ball hawk going into his second and last year as the Patriots’ starting safety. Sophomore Scott Monge also had a great first game of the season, snagging two interceptions and showing that a breakout season might be on the horizon for the young stud, a potential massive help to this defense.
Coach Davies looks to build on the many successes from the past years’ teams and capitalize on the hot 1-0 start to the 2025 season. The Patriots travel to Colts Neck to play this Saturday, September 6th, and upon their win last week.
