Unable to capitalize on a weak Langley squad in the season’s final game, the Highlanders fell in the annual rivalry matchup on Nov. 3 to fall to 0-10, their first winless season since 2008.

The Highlanders played a hard-fought first half, keeping the score close at 14-10 at halftime following a James Bradley field goal and Carter Govan touchdown reception. McLean had tweaked its offense following an embarrassing shutout loss to Washington-Lee the week before as Omar Varela was plugged into a much more efficient passing scheme against the Saxons. However, the wheels fell off in the second half, as Langley’s trademark read option offense pillaged the Highlander defense for more than 320 yards on the ground for a final score of 34-10.

Despite the disappointing record for first year head coach John Scholla’s first season, McLean has the opportunity to train hard in the offseason and start fresh next August. In 2008, the last time the Highlanders finished 0-10, they came back in 2009 with the biggest turnaround in state history to go 6-4 and earn a playoff appearance. With Scholla at the helm, McLean hopes history can repeat itself.