Physical mistakes often are caused by mental breakdowns, so Free State High’s players are trying not to think too much on the football field.

As the Firebirds head into tonight’s 7 p.m. game with Shawnee Mission West, turnovers and penalties are the most obvious cause to the team’s early season woes. At 0-3, Free State has been hampered by fumbles — 15 total, eight lost in three games — and penalties, which have not been abundant but have come in crucial situations.

FSHS coach Bob Lisher said the team was working on the necessary drills to cut down on flags and fumbles. But he also said the key was to not dwell on mistakes this week in practice.

“We had great practices on Monday and Wednesday,” Lisher said. “Our kids understand that we’re a turnover or penalty away from a 2-1 or 1-2 record.”

When the Firebirds hang on to the ball, they can move the chains. The running game has proved the most effective; sophomore Brian Murphy is among the Sunflower League leaders with 286 yards rushing. Senior Jamie Resseguie and junior Brett Lisher also provide ground options.

Free State’s offensive and defensive lines are the team’s strength, though, and will return to full strength tonight with the return of Philip Weinmaster. The senior sprained his shoulder in the fourth quarter of Free State’s 37-14 loss to Olathe East and didn’t start last week against SM Northwest. But he’s expected to start at both center and defensive tackle tonight.

He’ll be needed. While Free State is building experience as it goes this year, SM West (2-1) returned a slew of starters and they’re already making a difference. The Vikings matched its 2003 win total in just two weeks this year.

“They’re very experienced,” Lisher said. “They’ve got eight guys returning on both sides of the football.”

West’s main offensive weapon is running back D.J. Barnett, who has 380 yards rushing this year, third in the league behind Olathe North’s Justin Gore and SM East’s Colin Hertel. He’s taking handoffs from Tyler Lawrence, a returning starter, and getting blocks by a big offensive line.

“Barnett’s pretty much their main weapon,” Lisher said. “We have to concentrate on making sure he doesn’t break free down the sideline for the score.”

After tonight, Free State will stay on the road to play Olathe South. The Firebirds’ next two games will be Thursday contests.