The Vikings played their final game on Saturday night against Cerritos in the Western Bowl, losing the game ending their season with a final overall record of 5-6.
On their first game of the season, The Vikings seemed to be much more than locked in, defeating L.A. Southwest 72-6. The Vikings would also end this game with 18 penalties letting their emotions get the best of them, which would become an issue they would deal with throughout the season.
Discipline has been an issue that the team has been made aware about, as head coach Brett Peabody said since the start of the season, “We did not play up to the standards we set for ourselves.”
Vikings quarterback Will Madonna also had some words for his team regarding the way that their season ended, “It was disappointing we didn’t play good enough for the talent we had.”
Despite their mistakes, the Vikings chemistry has constantly seemed to be growing as their communication improved with every game, whether it would be through their support or figuring out team issues.
Another major problem for the Vikings would be the balance between their offense and their defense. Many of their losses would result on one side not playing on the same level as the other.
Vikings sophomore running back Johnathan Wattson, #3, would play a major role in the Viking’s offense leading the team with 11 touchdowns and a total of 845 yards with a total of 168 rushes.
Alongside Wattson’s impressive runs, the Vikings offensive line was crucial in making this possible. For most of the games the offensive line would receive praise and gratitude through fellow players and coaches for their strengths, visions, and ability to open up space.
The final season averages for the offense are 367.5 total yards per game, 119.2 from rushes, 248.4 from passes, and 29 points per game.
As for defense, Vikings freshman linebacker Jamarlo Campbell, #19, would lead the team in total tackles with 62 alongside fellow Vikings freshman linebacker on defense, Austin Bressler, #9, leading the team in solo tackles with 34.
The final season averages for the Vikings’ defense are 349.5 yards allowed per game, 161.9 rushing yards allowed per game, 187.5 passing yards allowed per game , and 27.5 points allowed per game
Although the Vikings season didn’t end in the way that they wanted it to, they have improved from last year’s record and seem to be locked in and working together to try to solve their issues as a team.
They have made it known they are aware of what they need to work on and are willing to put in the work for the outcome they fight for.