The Austin football team will be taking on a new and improved Winhawk team this Friday at 7 p.m. in Winona.

“This is the best Winona team that I have seen since I have been in Austin,” Austin head coach Tim Hermann said. “Very well coached, and very athletic with good speed at the skill positions.”

Winona quarterback Joe Zimbric and receiver Chris Merritt have been a lethal combination so far and Chad Peterson gives the Winhawks (2-1 overall, 1-1 Big Nine) a strong rushing attack.

On defense, Winona will load up the middle to try and stop the Austin rushing attack.

“They play several people in the box, plus some man to man in two back situations, so it will be up to us to establish the run game by bringing more than they have,” Hermann said. “The challenge will be how to develop the correct formation for each situation and get the right people in position to be successful.”

While the Packers (1-2 overall, 0-2 Big Nine) have specialized in the ground game this year, they have yet to break open any game changing scampers. Hermann said he is more concerned with consistency to keep the chains moving.

“We aren’t worried about long runs. We are worried about positive gains, controlling the game with the run on offense is a key to success,” he said. “Would I like to see us break 40 and 50 yard runs —sure, but I am more concerned that four yards times three runs equals a first down.”

This is the third road game for Austin out of its first four contests.

“We should certainly be comfortable by now with the road game routine and

game day schedule,” Hermann said.

Austin will have a few new faces in the lineup this Friday as some players make their return to the team.