Most coaches would have a hard time looking on the bright side following an 0-3 start to the season, especially after being outscored 100-23 in those contests and losing several key players to injuries. McLean’s head football coach, Shaun Blair, is not one of those coaches.

Senior quarterback Jonathan Pilsch, who injured his ankle in the season opener against Stonebridge, started against Marshall the following week and threw for 230 yards in his varsity home debut. However, Pilsch came into Blair’s office just hours before the Madison game to reveal that his ankle was officially broken, sidelining him for at least six weeks.

“The score is not indicative of what has transpired here, with the amount of adversity this team has been through these guys came and huddled together and gave one of the best teams in the area a fight,” said Blair following the 30-0 loss to Madison.

Sophomore quarterback Carter Govan heroically stepped in for Pilsch in his first varsity start and struggled against the powerful Madison defense. McLean’s defense, however, shined as well, anchored by junior cornerback Miles Collins and senior linebacker Harrison Govan, who kept the Warhawk offense in jeopardy during several key situations throughout the night.

“Again, the score is not indicative of what happened here tonight, they fought their tails off and I’m just very proud of each and every one of them.” said Blair.

Many fans remember Oakton high school’s magical run to the state championship game following a disappointing 0-5 start to the season, so anything is possible for the Highlanders down the stretch, as they look to put up a strong fight at South Lakes this Friday.

“It ain’t over ’till it’s over,” Blair added with a smile. This McLean team still has work to do.