Sheffield’s varsity players carry the famed casket to the bonfire Friday night to amp up the local fans prior to Saturday’s homecoming game. Times Observer Photo by Cody Elms

Sheffield opened the 2022 season with a disappointing loss on the road at Bucktail, five weeks later, the now 0-3 Wolverines will host the Bucks for their homecoming game and still looking for their first win.

Since the 42-12 opening loss, Sheffield has fallen to both Otto-Eldred (54-6) and Elk County Catholic (57-0). Sheffield Head Coach Mike Barr is hoping familiarity with Bucktail will give his players an opportunity to build on what worked and avoid what didn’t.

“It’s neat that we get to face these guys again,” said Barr. “They won so I don’t think they’re really gonna change much. I went out a couple weeks ago to Elk County Catholic and they were playing Bucktail, and Bucktail stayed true to form. They’re gonna come out and try to pound it down.”

Barr acknowledged the Wolverines best game was week one, but given that Sheffield has been outscored 153-18, the second year coach will continue to switch things up by rotating players in and out.

“We changed up some defensive players,” said Barr. “I went with some kids that aren’t afraid to hit and have a little bit of speed.”

Sheffield is desperately in need of a win, but Barr is trying to not put too much pressure on the players in practice, describing this week’s practices as, “loose.”

“I use the word loose but not in the sense it was out of control,” said Barr. “It was a very good upbeat week. The kids had fun. We tried to put the emphasis back with the kids that it’s a game. Go out and have fun.”