The Mountaineers are known for a certain style of play, and not necessarily style points. After three games Mount Baker has racked up 1468 yards on just 135 plays. That’s an average of 10.87 yards per offensive play. They have also scored 22 touchdowns, and they have yet to punt. Some thought that losing Jed Schleimer would hinder the offense, but the Mounties understand the philosophy that the next man up needs to get the job done.

Carson Engholm and Carson Brandland returned to the backfield, but Baker has welcomed the tough running style of Sam Barrett, the pure speed of Kobee Malone and the slashing of Jason Lee. All three have averaged over 10 yards per carry this season, and have been welcome additions to the red and black. Quarterback Kaleb Bass has hooked up with Thomas Barbo (who is the school’s all-time leading receiver) 13 times for 233 yards.

Helping the Mountaineers accomplish all of this has been the emergence of an almost completely new offensive line. Senior Luke Steeves started last season at left guard, and has returned. Twin brother Kyler Steeves played well at left tackle last year, but has been moved to right guard for this season. Junior Jay Allen converted from running back to left tackle, and combines great size with speed. Junior right tackle Noah Rathjen only played defense last year, but has been depended on to down-block from the right side in 2017. Senior tight end Hayden Linderman had huge shoes to fill, taking over for T.J. Bass, but he has proven to be more than adequate with his blocking, and he’s also caught three passes for 43 yards. 256-pound junior Braeden Shannon is the strongest player on the team, and has been a force at center.

Coach Ron Lepper has always believed that offensive line is the most important position on the field. A former offensive lineman himself, he takes a lot of pride that his line is getting the job done. So far, it has.

The biggest challenge will be this Friday at Nooksack Valley.