WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - After a 1-7 season in 2020, Mulvane football is off to an impressive start, already doubling its win total from last year and ranked No. 10 in class 4A.

A big reason behind the Wildcat’s turnaround is the return of North Dakota State commit and senior quarterback Mason Ellis, who missed most of last season with a broken elbow.

“It really sucked missing the season,” Ellis said. “I put a lot of work in during the summer and had that chip on my shoulder to be the best I can be to help the team out.”

Through week four, Ellis leads the AVCTL Division III in passing yards, putting up 756 on the season with five touchdowns to help lead Mulvane to a 2-2 start.

“Starting off with Andale and Collegiate, both good teams, is a great test to see where we are this year and I think we proved and opened a lot of eyes,” Ellis said. “We are a completely different team this year and have a lot more experience and have that chip on our shoulder to prove people wrong.”

One of those passes includes a 95-yard touchdown pass, the program’s longest for a score in a 315-yard, three touchdown performances to lead the Wildcats to a win over Circle in week three.

Ellis, who plays on both sides of the ball for Mulvane, has also posted two 100 plus rushing yard games this season.

“The goal for me was just to come out and do my best and prove people wrong.”

The multi-sport standout will continue his career on the gridiron at North Dakota State next season.

“I’m really excited to get out there and meet all the coaches and players and learn more about that culture,” he said. “It’s really a championship winning culture I can’t wait to get up there.”

But for now he’s focused on leading Mulvane to its first winning season since 2018.

“I think we can make a deep playoff run and our goal every year is to get to the state championship game.”

Mulvane faces Coffeyville at home next.

Rising Star: Senior QB Mason Ellis fueling turnaround season for Mulvane