Upcoming Preview for Dixie Heights Football: Coach Anticipates a more Elevated Squad over Last Season's Team
The Dixie Heights Colonels are preparing for a new football season with a sense of optimism, aiming to improve upon their 2024 record of 3-8. At the heart of this optimism is the return of senior quarterback Mason Fields, who showcased his talent and potential in his first year as the team's starter. Fields, a 6-foot-4, 225-pound athlete, threw for 1,761 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, displaying his arm talent and developing better progression in his game.
The Colonels are also set to welcome a promising newcomer, Anthony Gabriel Jr., a fast and athletic transfer from California. Gabriel Jr. is expected to make a significant impact on the team, further bolstering their offensive capabilities.
However, the Colonels' path to success won't be easy. Their 2025 schedule is filled with formidable opponents, including state champions and runners-up from the previous season. Notable matchups include Beechwood, Covington Catholic, Scott, Cooper, Boone County, and Ryle, all of whom are contenders in their respective regions or states.
Coach Patrick Burke has intentionally scheduled these tough games, believing that facing strong competition will help the team grow and improve. The Colonels' district for the 2025 season is Class 5A, District 6, with Boone County, Conner, Cooper, and Scott.
On the defensive side, the Colonels can rely on the return of strong players such as linebacker Rhoden and defensive backs Bray Bryzgot and Nishawn Golsby, who could emerge as top playmakers for the team. The defensive line also returns three starters (Austin Morehead, Owen Gabbard, Ben London) and some players who had significant playing time last season.
In the backfield, Junior Brad Roaden and Levi Gilliland are expected to share carries, with Fields running the ball more. Coach Burke expects Gilliland to be a "great leader and key contributor" this season.
Armani Gregg, an integral part of the Colonels' offense, rushed for 1,321 yards and 18 touchdowns in his senior season. His contributions will be missed, but the team is confident that their new additions and returning players will step up to fill the void.
The Colonels' season begins on August 22, 2025, with an away game against Simon Kenton. With a strong leadership core, new skill strength, and a challenging schedule, the Dixie Heights Colonels are poised to be a vastly improved team over last year.
- The Dixie Heights Colonels, based in Northern Kentucky's Boone County, are planning to play their upcoming football season in Kentucky's Class 5A, District 6, alongside Boone County, Conner, Cooper, and Scott.
- Senior quarterback Mason Fields, who initially showcased his talent in his first year as a starter, will once again lead the Colonels in the 2025 season.
- Anthony Gabriel Jr., a speedy transfer from California, is anticipated to join the Colonels this season, potentially making a considerable impact on the team's offense.
- In an attempt to prepare the team for strong competition, Coach Patrick Burke has scheduled tough games against competitive opponents, such as Beechwood, Covington Catholic, Scott, Cooper, Boone County, and Ryle.
- For sports analysis enthusiasts in the NCAA, the American-football season for the Dixie Heights Colonels will commence on August 22, 2025, with an away game against Simon Kenton, offering an opportunity to assess the team's improvements from last year's 3-8 record.
