CRETE, Neb. -- Hastings College football program is relying on its youth to replace all conference departures. 

On the defensive side of the ball, it lost numerous players due to graduation, including two all conference defensive lineman. 

Defensive Lineman Gunnar Ogle said it's time for the younger guys to fill in those former Broncos’ shoes. 

“We lost our cornerstone guys who graduated this last year so we’re looking forward to seeing who is going to fill that role,” said Ogle. “I don’t know if one man can but as a group we are going to work together to fill that role.”

Fourth year Head Coach Matt Franzen is confident that the younger guys have assisted in the groups rebuilding process. 

“I feel like we rebuilt that group,” said Franzen. “It may look a little bit different but I think we’ve got it in a very good place.”

And on the other side of the ball, the offense only lost one starter from last season’s squad that averaged 330 yards per game and 23 points per game.

One of the keys of the Broncos firepower was its passing game; averaging 240 yards per game. 

Wide Receiver Ethan Wilborn believes his squad has the best core in the conference.

“I would say we are the best wide receiving core in the GPAC,” said Wilborn. “New receiving coach. Throw heavy offense. We have a great offensive coordinator.”

Wilborn credits the brotherhood mentality around the program to the success they have.

“I live with some of them, so they are like my brothers,” said Wilborn. “Just like the rest of the team. I’d say that makes us even tighter as an individual position group.”

Franzen has faith his team can win the important games to put the program on the national stage.

“It’s time for us as a program to win the games that outsiders expect us to win but also, find ways to win the games outsiders don’t expect us to win,” said Franzen.

Hastings opens its season at home against Peru State.