Johnston returns to football program for senior year

The last time Scott City's football team won a district title, it had a Johnston at the helm.

Scott Johnston led the Rams to a 10-2 record and a state quarterfinal appearance in 1999. With the Rams off to a 3-0 start this season, their best start since a 7-3 season in 2000, Scott City once again has a Johnston leading the way.

Senior Mark Johnston, who didn't come out for football last year, is calling the shots for the Rams this season.

"I've got big shoes to fill," said Mark Johnston, referring to his older brother. "I'll take it one day at a time and hopefully I'll get there."

While there are many factors that brought Johnston back to the gridiron, the presence of coach Terry Flannigan played a big part. Flannigan coached Scott Johnston for several years before taking an assistant coaching job at Sikeston in 1999.

"I was around him a lot the last time when he was here," Johnston said. "I have more respect for him than a lot of people. Him coming back, I knew it was going to be the real deal."

Johnston's presence at quarterback has not only given the Rams a new-found athleticism at the position, it has also allowed them to move last year's quarterback, Luke McClellan, to receiver. McClellan's speed at receiver gives Scott City another weapon on offense. McClellan also has been moved to defensive back, which has helped solidify the defense.

"It strengthens our team in two or three different ways," Flannigan said.

Through three games, Johnston has shown flashes of filling his older brother's shoes quite nicely. In his debut, Johnston threw for four touchdowns and 185 yards in a 44-20 victory against Malden. While Johnston's last two performances have not been earth-shattering, he has picked up the intricacies of the offense.

"I've been working with coach (Charlie) Vickery," Johnston said. "I'm a lot more comfortable with it, and I'm getting more comfortable every game."