Purple Rain! The Sabers are primed for a big 2025 season

by Desmond Ordonez

The ICFL is full of talent across the league, with crafty veterans, young stars, great coaching, and dynamic play-making all over the field. The ICFL's Sabers were a team that had these characteristics, showing signs of a quality football team.

Despite their 4-4 record, they were filled with stars on both sides of the ball, proving their balanced attack. This off-season has shown that the Sabers are set to make a big leap into next season by bringing back every major contributor from 2024.

When a team, at any level, comes together again after a season that they know should have gone differently, they could be dangerous. They are entering the new season with a different attitude and a sense of "revenge" to prove to themselves and the rest of the league that they are one of the most lethal teams.

The Sabers' bounce-back season will revolve around the return of the brother duo, Emmitt and Brig Johnson. Emmitt joined the Sabers in the middle of the season when the team was at 1-3. He mentioned in an interview that it was an easy decision to join the Sabers after his brother was already part of the team, saying, "My brother was already there, so it made sense. Who would not want to play with their brother? It was a no-brainer, and luckily we had fun alongside each other." Before Emmett's arrival, Brig was already one of the ICFL's best wide receivers.

Together, Emmett's leadership and arm talent, combined with Brig's size and strength, formed one of the best QB-WR duos of 2024 in a league filled with similar tandems. The more time the brothers spend playing alongside each other, the better the Sabers will become. Emmett will also have more time to develop chemistry with his offensive line, as big names like Francisco Castro and Kaden Rothenbuhler are set to return. It seems that this offense has all the makings of being the league's best in 2025. Morris Bunn, Milo Betty, Kishan Joyner, and Ethan Johnson (the third Johnson brother) are also names to watch out for.

The Sabers' defense looks just as dangerous this season. The linebacker position will see significant reinforcement with the return of Keegan Spengler and Logan Sicilia, who were both key contributors last season and aim to have an even greater impact in 2025. Spengler, who joined the team from another last season, brought toughness to the Sabers. Sicilia, a co-owner of the Sabers, is known as one of the most versatile defensive players in the ICFL. Last season, Sicilia played at both defensive end and outside linebacker, excelling in both positions. The combination of Spengler and Sicilia will pose a significant challenge for opposing teams.

Defensive ends Josiah Lara and Dillon Keller are also set to return, adding to the team's pass-rush dominance. Lara and Keller each had over 30 tackles and two sacks last year, demonstrating a strong football mentality. The Sabers are thrilled to have them back.

Outside of returns on either side, the Sabers are welcoming two pivotal new players for the 2025 season. Offensive lineman Matt Lee and defensive athlete Ryan Corder are set to make a significant impact. Lee, Bear River High School football coach, is a physical lineman who excels on defense, making him a valuable player for any team. Corder, on the other hand, is a standout in his own right. Formerly one of the best linebackers in Idaho, Corder was ranked as the number 12 player in the state and received numerous defensive awards during his time at Meridian High School. With Corder's skills, the Sabers are poised for success in 2025.

The Sabers are expected to have a strong season in 2025 and fans should not underestimate the team's potential.