MORGANTOWN – One thing about the sport of football that will stand the test of time is the importance of the offensive and defensive lines.
For Morgantown High School football, the play of the offensive line has largely dictated the team’s success, particularly with its run-heavy offensive style.
It’ll be no different this season for head coach Sean Biser and the Mohigans, even with a playbook that may look different than years past.
One key piece of the puzzle for MHS on the offensive line is senior Brayden Parks, who had an impressive 2024 campaign and is looking to build on it in 2025.
“Last season was a big season for me, having to step up and lead in the line,” Parks said. “As the season went on, I became more comfortable with everything I was doing. My technique got better. It felt great to win a playoff game and then go toe-to-toe with Spring Mills. This summer, my goals are to get stronger, faster, and better overall as a lineman.”
Parks originally began his high school football career at Trinity Christian School but arrived at MHS ahead of his sophomore season.
“When I got to MHS, I didn’t really know anyone on the team at all,” he said. “I wasn’t anywhere near where I am today. But as time went on, I grew close to these guys not only as teammates, but as friends. I’d say Coach Biser has really helped me in my journey. He taught me everything it takes to be a lineman, basically. Down to the fundamentals and basics.”
Parks and the MHS offensive line helped their team rush for 2,735 yards on 477 attempts, resulting in 37 touchdowns in 2024.
With highly-talented sophomore quarterback Maddox Twigg set to lead MHS in 2025, the offensive scheme could look a bit different from previous seasons under Biser, which makes the job for Parks and his crew slightly different. Still, it’s a challenge they’re welcoming with open arms.
“This year is sort of a learning curve for me, scheme-wise,” Parks said. “We aren’t flipping sides anymore, so knowing our calls, what to do, and where to go will be something to focus on every play. The offensive line is the foundation of any team, and we are often overlooked by some people. I like being the guy in the trenches fighting for every inch possible every single play.”
MHS will officially be a member of the Eastern Panhandle Athletic Conference for football beginning this season, but the competition is exciting for Parks.
“This season’s schedule may honestly end up being tougher than last season,” he said. “I think we have what it takes to be on top most weeks, and honestly, I believe we have a championship caliber team. That’s our goal and that’s the ceiling we are setting for ourselves.”
Parks and the Mohigans begin their 2025 campaign hosting Parkersburg at Pony Lewis Field on Thursday, August 28, at 7:00 p.m.
