Daniel Matthews
Updated on: October 8, 2024 10:51 am GMT
Flint, MI – Connor Stalions made his debut as the interim head coach for Detroit Mumford High School during a high-stakes game against Flint Hamady on Friday night. Unfortunately for Stalions and his team, the night ended in a disheartening 60-0 loss. This match not only marked Stalions’ first game in a significant coaching role but also came at a tumultuous time following current head coach William McMichael’s recent hospitalization due to a mild stroke.
Stalions Steps Up Amid Challenges
Stalions, previously in the role of defensive coordinator, stepped in as acting head coach after McMichael fell ill just days prior to the game. McMichael, who had taken over the coaching position at Mumford in the spring, had brought Stalions on board, aware of his extensive experience and knowledge gained from his time on the University of Michigan coaching staff.
McMichael was hospitalized for three days, but fortunately, doctors confirmed there was no permanent damage from the stroke. As the football program faced significant challenges, the school turned to Stalions in a moment of need, a choice that clearly came with high expectations.
Despite the circumstances, Stalions approached his new role with seriousness. He was seen working closely with players on kickoff drills just moments before the game, signaling his commitment to imparting a winning mentality to his team. “I came to Mumford because I wanted to help flip the culture,” Stalions stated after the game, emphasizing his desire to foster a winning attitude. “They are not used to winning, and I wanted to help show these guys the actual process of what it’s going to take to win.”
A Difficult Game Against Hamady
The game itself showcased a steep learning curve for Stalions. From the outset, Flint Hamady dominated, with their first score coming just two plays into the game—a 63-yard touchdown run by Devion Holloway. Following this, Mumford’s struggles intensified when they failed to recover a kickoff, allowing Hamady to seize the ball at Mumford’s own 30-yard line. Within minutes, the score escalated to 13-0.
Mumford’s offensive strategy faced significant criticism as Stalions decided to go for it on multiple fourth downs instead of punting, leading to favorable positions for Hamady. The Mustangs were unable to convert any of their six attempts on fourth down, which repeatedly gave the opposing team the advantage. This included a particularly difficult fourth-and-20 scenario from their 30-yard line that resulted in a touchdown pass by Hamady just before the end of the first quarter.
Despite difficulties—a heavy downpour in the first quarter and significant deficits—Stalions continued to encourage his players. “Success doesn’t come overnight,” he remarked after the game, acknowledging the tough schedule ahead of his team. “The first three or four opponents we play are playoff teams, so the schedule is frontloaded.”
Emphasizing the Process of Winning
Stalions maintained a focus on building a winning culture rather than immediate results, highlighting the importance of the process in transforming the team’s fortunes. He stated, “I’d rather have 15 guys who love the process of football than 30 guys where they’re kind of halfway in.” This philosophy underscores a commitment to developing a core group of players dedicated to improving and winning.
Among the players, Lamont Dexter stood out for his determination and willingness to adapt. When the starting quarterback, Ryan Banks, went down due to injury early in the game, Dexter stepped up, demonstrating resilience and effort, ultimately leading the team to gather 60 yards on their final drive.
The Road Ahead for Mumford
Following the lopsided defeat against Flint Hamady, Detroit Mumford’s record now stands at 0-2 for the season. The Mustangs have a challenging matchup on the horizon against Detroit Cass Technical, currently ranked 42nd in the state according to Massey Ratings. The upcoming game will likely present another tough test for Stalions as he works to guide the team through this tumultuous season.
Despite the challenging start, both Stalions and McMichael remain optimistic about the potential for growth and improvement. McMichael, who has known Stalions for some time, endorsed his coaching acumen, saying, “He’s great with the kids, has an outstanding football mind, and we’re learning a lot.” The focus for the team remains on the process, a journey that Stalions believes will eventually lead to success, setting a foundation for the program’s future.
Connor Stalions has a tough job ahead of him as he works to rebuild a struggling program. The challenges he faces now will help him become a better coach in the future. It might be a hard journey to change the team’s culture and improve their skills, but if he stays dedicated and follows a clear plan, there’s a good chance that things will get better for Mumford.
