There’s no better time to start a new winning streak. 

After a sizzling 3-0 start, Marian Catholic football has fallen into a series of losses that have begun to raise questions.

Who are these Spartans? 

Are they the once undefeated squad that couldn’t be stopped?

Or should fans begin to credit the team’s near-victories and spotlight solid individual play?

It turns out that what these Spartans are, is hunger for a Homecoming win, say players including sophomore running back Tyler Lofton, determined to begin a new winning streak when they meet St. Viator at 7 pm tomorrow night at Dave Mattio Field. 

“After our last two losses,” Lofton said. “I expect that we will come out strong.”

Lofton and this Spartan team want to kickoff Homecoming weekend with a win. 

This game, of course, will be Head Coach Lopez’s third at home but the alum’s first in charge at homecoming. 

During halftime, the Homecoming Court will be announced ahead of Saturday’s game.

While these Spartans enter Homecoming with a winning record, there is a sense the team’s 3-2 could have been better with more focused play against tougher competition. 

Although Lofton rushed for 98 yards on 16 carries against Benet, there also was a turnover, something the sophomore is committed to never happening again. 

“I fumbled last game,” Lofton said. “Since then, I’ve worked on securing the ball and keeping possession. I had a bad game. I could’ve played better.” 

Lofton said, “At Homecoming, you will see me at my best.” 

The Spartans will need both Lofton and quarterback Kyle Thomas at their best. Thomas passed 6-14, 69 yards and a touchdown in the team’s last loss against the Redwings. But the quarterback also had an interception. 

Entering tomorrow’s game, Lofton said he’s optimistic about the outcome. 

“I expect that we can beat [St. Viator] by at least two touchdowns,” Lofton said. “They were a good team last year, but we are better.”