Shrine Bowl South Team embracing grind, looking forward to Saturday

KEARNEY, NE — They just finished their sixth practice in about a 48 hour stretch, but the Nebraska Shrine Bowl South Team players are still feeling good.

“It’s not that bad. It’s mostly been a lot of learning since we’re learning a new system," Isaac Kracl of Crete said. "They haven’t been really grueling practices and the coaches are keeping us fresh for Saturday.”

But Kracl says don’t mistake fresh legs for a lack of intensity.

“We’re going to bring a lot of energy and we’re going to be playing fast and physical. (The) defense is gonna be on locks and offense is going to be running em up,” Kracl said.

Defensive back Elliot Jurgens is thinking the same way.

“I would say there’s a large focus for winning," Jurgens said. "Obviously, it is an all-star game, but I would say a lot more focus than people would think for an all-star game.”

There’s no shortage of motivation for the all-stars. They want to show out for their hometowns and schools. Offensive lineman Caleb Jones joins Jurgens in representing Beatrice.

“Caleb is one of my best friends my whole life, but we’re just trying to represent the community of Beatrice really well and show a good example for the next up and coming kids from Beatrice,” Jurgens said.

Tyson Denkert wants to represent more than just his hometown of Kenesaw, he’s standing up for the eight-man ranks.

“There’s definitely lots of talent in eight-man," Denkert said. "Just being able to represent everybody, it’s a great feeling. There’s a lot of eight-man dudes on both teams.”

The future Midland University running back says the biggest change is the size of the linemen and the the view as the ballcarrier.

“We’re used to running one single hole, but here you’ve got to read and then go inside out," Denkert said. "It’s a great learning experience for me. I’m really just having fun out here.”

Kickoff for the 64th Nebraska Shrine Bowl is at 6:00 central time on Saturday and you can watch on News Channel Nebraska TV.