Photo by Noah Clooten
The roller coaster of Devils Lake’s football season took another shot up last Friday. The Firebirds beat Fargo South 28-7, bouncing back from a 28-14 loss to Wahpeton.
And so continued this up-and-down season. But despite all they’ve been through already, the biggest tests are still yet to come.
Bryar Exner is back
At last, the Firebirds’ star from their win over Watford City returned.
Devils Lake had made do without him for a few weeks, most notably in the stunning comeback victory over Jamestown. But with only one offensive touchdown against Wahpeton last week, the Firebirds were starving for additional weapons on offense.
So Exner stepped back in at just the right time.
The running back had an 80-yard touchdown run, plus a six-yard touchdown reception. It was the type of explosive, athletic level of play that made the Firebirds look so dangerous early on in the season. To their credit, they stayed mostly afloat without him, but after the tough loss to Wahpeton, his return was a welcome one.
Now Devils Lake just has more options down the stretch. Will Heilman was the most important piece in Exner’s absence, and while the sophomore might take a relatively more limited role now, he’s still another trick in Devils Lake’s back pocket. Exner’s return makes Devils Lake deeper, better and more versatile.
For the full story, subscribe to the Devils Lake Journal and check out the edition on Thursday, Oct. 10.
