Eastside High School’s football team, under head coach James Magazine, is aiming to bounce back from recent challenging seasons after a promising start during his tenure. After ending a 12-year stretch of non-winning seasons with a 5-4 record in 2019, the team faced setbacks in the past two years, finishing 4-8 and 3-8. However, Magazine highlights a shift in team dynamics, emphasizing a stronger offensive line led by seasoned players. This season, the team will introduce new skill players, notably rising junior quarterback Shyjeir Stratford. The Ghosts are also preparing for a challenging schedule, with significant games against strong opponents such as Ridgewood and Union City, while five transfers will become eligible after four games.
Why It Matters
Eastside football has a history of competing in sectional finals, with championships dating back to the early 1940s under different coaches. The team has consistently produced skilled players, including notable alumni like baseball Hall of Famer Larry Doby. This year, for the first time, Eastside will not face local rival Kennedy due to division changes, impacting traditional rivalries and scheduling. The team’s efforts to strengthen its line and adapt its strategy reflect a broader trend in high school athletics, where focusing on foundational skills can significantly influence performance and success on the field.
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