Gardner Edgerton football is much more than Traevohn Wrench.

As the Trailblazers enter the Kansas 6A ranks for the first time, Wrench is generating most of the buzz. Rightfully so, because this 6-foot-1, 191-pound junior running back gained 2,424 yards and scored 34 touchdowns last season..

But Wrench alone probably can’t carry Gardner Edgerton deep into the playoffs.

“Eleven people can stop one guy, so we will have to take some pressure off of him,” Trailblazers coach Marvin Diener said.

Gardner Edgerton, coming off an 8-4 record, has reached at least the 5A state semifinals the last four seasons and would love to do at least as well in the state’s largest classification.

“We’re in a tough 6A district, but the last couple of years we were in a tough 5A district, too,” Diener said. “I think our schedule the last few years has us prepared for 6A.”

Besides Wrench, junior quarterback Jared Hobby (6-0, 191) returns and leads an improved passing game.

He was 91 for 179 for 1,175 yards and 10 touchdowns with four interceptions last season, but even more will be expected in his second season as the starter.

“Jared was in the shadows, but he had a really good sophomore season, and we expect to make more plays through the air,” Diener said.

Senior receiver Jamain Lang (6-1, 195) also returns along with senior guard Denton Lawrence (5-10, 205) on the line.

Defensively, senior linebacker Matt Plank (6-2, 215) leads the defense. He recorded 127 tackles.

Also at linebacker, Dalton Kirk (6-0, 212) returns with senior defensive back Riley Craig (6-2, 182) back in the secondary.

Senior twins Connor (6-2, 230) and Max Knorr (6-2, 242) are switching from offense to the defensive line and will anchor the front four with junior Austin Gardner.