Seth Stillman blames himself as much as anybody for New Hope’s 0-5 start. But the Trojans’ head coach genuinely believes his team is close to putting together a complete performance.

“We’ve got a bunch of really good kids who just haven’t taken that extra step yet,” Stillman said. “Most of that, I’ll put on us as coaches. We have to make sure we’re maximizing what we get out of our guys every week, whether that’s from a hard work standpoint, a physicality standpoint (or) an organizational standpoint. We have to make sure we’re doing more to put our guys in the best position to win.”

New Hope’s next opportunity comes Friday night on its home field against Pontotoc (2-3) in the district opener. The Trojans are scuffling offensively, averaging just under 10 points per game, and were shut out last week against rival Columbus as the Falcons earned their first win of the 2023 campaign.

The Warriors have had an up-and-down season with all of their games decided by at least 17 points. Pontotoc has alternated wins and losses and is coming off a 32-13 defeat at home against New Albany.

“It’s all about effort for us,” Stillman said. “We know if we put our heads down and we go out there and get after it, we’re going to get the result we want. The losing has compounded on itself and somehow the doubt creeps in your mind, and we’re fighting to get that doubt out of their heads.”

Junior Baskin has been among New Hope’s leaders on both sides of the ball as a running back and strong safety. Freshman Trey Tippett has made an impact as a wide receiver and kick returner, and Stillman also praised the play of sophomore receiver Cameron Mitchell. Stillman called outside linebacker Brett Williamson, the Trojans’ leading tackler, “one of the toughest kids I’ve ever been around and been able to coach.”

“We’re extremely young, but regardless of youth, they just have to continue to grind and do the things we’re asking them to do,” Stillman said. “If they trust the process and continue to compete at our standard, the success is going to come, and I think it’s going to come soon.”

Pontotoc has used two quarterbacks this season, with Courtland Pass and Miller Finn splitting time behind center. Somewhat ironically given his name, Pass is also a threat as a runner, averaging nearly 10 yards per carry on 20 rushing attempts. Jakylen Judon is the Warriors’ leading rusher, with 66 carries for 323 yards and eight touchdowns.

Defensively, Pontotoc is strongest in the back end — Kylen Simmons has intercepted two passes and broken up seven more. The Warriors have missed all three field goals they have attempted this year, but kicker Eddie Nolasco is a perfect 11-for-11 on extra points.

“(They have) a bunch of big guys up front on the offensive and defensive line,” Stillman said. “If we don’t come out and play a fast, physical game, we’re going to struggle.”