Historic Opening Night
Manhattan High football is defending its Class 6A state championship title as it faces Rockhurst in the first ever meeting between the two programs, set to unfold at Bishop Stadium with kickoff at 7 p.m. Friday.
Rockhurst, a Missouri powerhouse that finished 9‑3 last season, enters the opener after a 23‑17 loss to St. Pius X, but brings a strong offensive line and playmakers such as senior running back Cash Lewandowski, receiver Tristan Johnson and quarterback Garrett Miller, whose elusiveness extends plays and creates big passing opportunities.
Manhattan’s junior quarterback Mclain Aslin will make his first start, a transition that coach Joe Schartz says will be guided by his W.I.N. philosophy—focus on what's important now, discipline, and avoidance of penalties and turnovers.
The size disparity in the trenches is notable; Rockhurst’s defensive line brings more bulk while Manhattan’s offensive line lacks comparable size, a factor that could influence the line of scrimmage battle.
Weather conditions add another layer, as both teams have been training in varied environments to cope with the extreme conditions expected at kickoff, and the game’s outcome will affect confidence heading into Manhattan’s Week 2 road matchup at Mill Valley, a prospect senior captain Joseph Mortensen views as valuable experience.