Howell Football Looks to Bounce Back and Secure Playoff Spot in 2023
The Howell Highlanders are setting their sights on a return to the playoffs after narrowly missing out in the 2022 football season. Their goal is to match a program record by winning at least one state playoff game three years in a row, a feat previously achieved by the Highlanders’ teams from 2008-2010. Despite winning opening-round thrillers in 2020 and 2021, Howell fell short last year with a 4-5 record, finishing as the 35th-ranked Division 1 team and missing the 32-team playoff field.
As the 2023 season approaches, returning to the postseason is the top priority for the Howell football team. They have their sights set on making the playoffs and continuing their season as far as possible. Senior Levi Curtin, who started as a running back in a second-round loss two years ago, expressed their determination, stating, We’re really expecting the playoffs.
The Highlanders have the talent and potential to make a push for the playoffs, but it won’t be an easy journey. They face a tough nonleague opener and will compete in the competitive KLAA West division, which offers no guarantees. However, Howell is hungry for success and is motivated by their missed opportunities in key games last season.
Second-half collapses in three crucial games prevented Howell from securing a playoff spot last year. They were close at halftime against Canton, Hartland, and Novi but were outscored significantly in the second half, ultimately leading to their downfall. Reflecting on those moments, Curtin highlighted the team’s focus on conditioning and remaining hungry to ensure they are prepared for fourth-quarter situations.
Quarterback Justin Jones gained invaluable experience as a sophomore last season, starting in three games, including the rivalry game against Hartland. After sharing time at quarterback last year, Jones will take on the starting role this season. His year of experience and familiarity with the team’s offensive strategies will be crucial to Howell’s success.
The Highlanders have always relied on a power-running game, and this year will be no different. Jones, who ran for more yards than he threw last season, will spearhead their offensive approach. Howell’s head coach, Brian Lewis, emphasized their desire to be a physical, smash-mouth team that can run the football effectively.
Levi Curtin is the embodiment of Howell’s desired playing style. The 6-foot-3, 210-pound senior is known for his physicality on both offense and defense. Curtin will be moving back to running back this year and playing linebacker full-time, allowing him to showcase his skills and contribute to the team’s success. His passion for the game and desire to be on the field every play make him a valuable asset for the Highlanders.
Howell will face an exciting challenge as they travel to the west side of the state for their season opener against Hudsonville. This will be their first visit to that area since 2017, adding a different environment and atmosphere to the game. The team is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to compete in a new setting and bring their high energy and passion to the field.
In recent years, KLAA teams were locked into division crossover games but have now been freed to schedule opponents from outside the league. This change opens up new possibilities for Howell to face teams from different regions, adding variety to their schedule. The Highlanders, with their home in Howell, haven’t had the chance to explore the Grand Rapids area, making this upcoming game an exciting adventure for the team.
As Howell football enters the 2023 season, their primary focus is securing a playoff spot and making a strong postseason run. With their determination, talent, and a year of experience under their belt, the Highlanders are poised to bounce back and achieve their goals. Under the leadership of Coach Lewis and the physicality brought by players like Levi Curtin, Howell’s power-running game will be a force to be reckoned with. The team’s hunger for success and their ability to learn from past setbacks will be essential in their journey to the playoffs. Stay tuned to see how Howell Football performs and whether they can achieve their desired postseason return.
