Ahead of Friday night's season openers, both of La Crosse's high school football coaches stopped in studio to talk about why kids don't watch games anymore, what it’s like preparing for the iconic "Ark" rivalry game between them and the evolution of the game — and the athletes. Central’s Michael Arnold and Logan’s Casey Knoble step away from the playbooks for a wide-ranging, lighthearted chat about the shifting culture of high school sports.

Before diving into the gridiron, we discuss how the high school experience has evolved — from cell phone bans in school to playbooks going from VHS tapes to iPads. The coaches also break down the veteran vs. rookie dynamic between Knoble (entering his 16th season) and Arnold (entering his 1st), and how today's hyper-trained athletes compare to past generations.

Topic rundown:

• Teaching & Tech Culture: How cell phone bans impact school life, managing student iPads, and keeping kids focused away from screens.

• 16 Seasons vs. Season 1: Casey Knoble’s veteran perspective leading Logan versus Michael Arnold stepping into his first year as Central's head coach.

• The Evolution of the Game: The shift from crowding around a TV to watch a VHS tape in the '90s to breaking down film on individual phones and iPads.

• Toughness & Training: Why traditional two-a-day practices disappeared, how athlete conditioning has changed, and why kids don't watch games like they used to.

• Modern Roster Realities: Managing 70+ player rosters, handling the physical toll on two-way starters, and navigating post-COVID athlete turnout.

• The Ark of Victory: The deep tradition, school culture, and lasting memories surrounding La Crosse's iconic carved wooden rivalry trophy.

• Coaching Beyond the Field: Drawing inspiration from Ted Lasso on connecting with players, building lasting relationships, and preparing kids for life after high school.