Two programs from different parts of Indiana — Evansville North and Southmont — are making serious postseason noise behind strong leadership, team chemistry, and a belief that their best football is still ahead.

Evansville North’s Breakout Season Under Coach Nero

At 7-2 and riding a five-game win streak, Evansville North has emerged as one of Class 5A’s surprise stories. In his first season as head coach, Zach Nero has quickly established a winning culture built on unity and discipline.

“Our mantra is, ‘It’s not about YOU, it’s not about ME, it’s not even about WE — it has to be about US,’” Nero told Indiana Preps. “You can’t spell Huskies without U-S.”

The Huskies have been dominant on both sides of the ball. Defensively, they’ve allowed just 69.9 rushing yards, 113.1 passing yards, and under 16 points per game, led by standout Ricky White, who’s totaled 27 tackles for loss and four sacks.

On offense, North averages 31 points per game, powered by a physical ground game that racks up 234 rushing yards per contest. Hunter McKinney and Q Pauley have combined for over 1,300 yards and 16 touchdowns, while quarterback Jayden Jones has added 11 passing touchdowns.

Nero credits the competitive Southern Indiana Athletic Conference for sharpening his team’s edge ahead of their Sectional 16 opener at New Albany.
“The SIAC is tough — every week you face programs with tradition and discipline,” Nero said. “But we’ve learned that North can’t beat North. If we stay focused and play for each other, we’ll be ready.”

Southmont’s Stadler Chasing a Championship Legacy

Further north, Southmont senior running back Avery Stadler is determined to bring home a sectional crown. The Mounties’ 9-1 season has been fueled by his relentless production — 1,370 rushing yards, 19 touchdowns, and a string of dominant two-way performances.

“It would mean a lot to bring a sectional home,” Stadler said. “We’d get to experience it as a family. At this point, we’re all fighting for our pads — one more game with my brothers.”

In last week’s 48-12 win over Delphi, Stadler put on a clinic: 189 rushing yards, 46 receiving yards, three touchdowns, and a standout defensive effort that included 10 tackles, three sacks, and a forced fumble.

Stadler credits his success to his work ethic and offensive line. “I’ve trained every Sunday, even after full practice weeks,” he said. “But I couldn’t do any of it without my O-line — they’ve worked their butts off.”

As Southmont prepares for a rematch with Western Boone, whom they edged 26-23 earlier this month, Stadler knows the challenge ahead. “It won’t be easy — both teams want to run the ball and be physical. But if we give our best effort all week, we can do it again.”

Two programs. Two leaders. One shared mission — to keep proving that belief, toughness, and unity can take you deep into November.

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