LINDEN — Marengo Academy (1-3) has reportedly hit the practice field hard this week in preparation for Friday night’s region game against Kingwood Academy (0-3).

“It’s real big. It’s a region game,” senior Kyle Schroeder said of the impending contest.

The Longhorns fell to Morgan Academy 14-13 in overtime during their last outing, an experience the team has apparently put to rest.

“Last week was heartbreaking,” senior quarterback Jesse Morgan said. “We made mental mistakes that killed us. Last week was a region game, but this week is, too.”

“They shook it off pretty quick, quicker than I did,” head coach Jesse Little said. “We’ve had some good practices (this week).”

Little’s squad will face a decidedly different offense Friday than it did against Morgan.

“We’re preparing for this spread all over the field,” Little said. “It’s completely different than last week.”

Little also said the personnel adjustments the team made have begun to pay dividends as Morgan is reportedly settling in as Longhorns’ starting quarterback and Schroeder is adjusting to the tailback spot.

“He’s doing good,” Little said of Morgan. “He’s come a long way. He throws the ball a lot better now than at the first of the year.”

Morgan said his improved skills as a passer have come as the result of increased practice time.

“I come out before practice every day and throw a little bit,” Morgan said.

Morgan has also been able to lend advice to converted receiver Schroeder while he becomes acclimated with the tailback spot.

“If he has questions, he usually asks me,” Morgan said.

“It’s good having him because he used to be at running back,” Schroeder said of Morgan, who started the year as the team’s tailback.

While Schroeder’s coaches reported being pleasantly surprised with his production during his first game at his new position, the senior still expects himself to achieve more at the spot.

“It’s kind of different to me. I’ve been at receiver,” Schroeder said. “There’s a lot I’ve got to learn about reading blocks and counter steps.”