Greater Cincinnati High School Football Preview Fall 2009

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009 C9

THE ENQUIRER

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW | 2009 High school football season begins next week, and Greater Cincinnati teams feature one of the strongest collections of talent in history. Local schools are producing major-college recruits and will contend for state championships. Today The Enquirer breaks down the area scene, beginning here and continuing through page C18.

All times 7:30 p.m. unless noted

Aiken Aug. 28 at Middletown Sept. 4 at Lockland Sept. 11 at Mount Healthy Sept. 18 vs. Hughes Sept. 26 at Taft Oct. 3 at Western Hills Oct. 9 at West Carrollton Oct. 15 vs. Woodward, 7 p.m.

Oct. 24 vs. Shroder Paideia Oct. 30 at Withrow

Amelia Aug. 28 vs. Batavia Sept. 4 at Northwest Sept. 11 vs. Milford Sept. 18 at Glen Este Sept. 25 at Anderson Oct. 2 at Kings Oct. 9 vs. Wilmington Oct. 16 vs. Walnut Hills Oct. 23 at Turpin Oct. 30 vs. Little Miami

Anderson Aug. 28 vs. Taft Sept. 4 vs. Woodward Sept. 11 vs. Boone County Sept. 18 at Columbus DeSales Sept. 25 vs. Amelia Oct. 2 vs. Winton Woods Oct. 9 at Loveland Oct. 16 at Glen Este Oct. 23 vs. Milford Oct. 30 at Harrison

Badin Aug. 28 vs. Woodward Sept. 4 at Taft Sept. 11 vs. Ross Sept. 18 vs. Alter Sept. 25 at Chaminade-Julienne Oct. 3 at Purcell Marian, 1 p.m.

Oct. 9 vs. Roger Bacon Oct. 17 vs. Fenwick Oct. 23 at Dayton Carroll Oct. 20 at McNicholas

Batavia Aug. 28 at Amelia Sept. 4 at Bethel-Tate Sept. 11 vs. New Miami Sept. 18 vs. Clermont Northeastern Sept. 25 at West Carrollton Oct. 2 vs. New Richmond Oct. 9 at Goshen Oct. 16 vs. Williamsburg Oct. 23 at East Clinton Oct. 30 vs. Blanchester

Bethel-Tate Aug. 28 at Lockland Sept. 4 vs. Batavia Sept. 11 vs. New Richmond Sept. 18 at Landmark Christian Sept. 25 at Blanchester Oct. 2 vs. Williamsburg Oct. 9 at Clermont Northeastern Oct. 16 at Western Brown Oct. 23 at Goshen Oct. 30 at Bishop Brossart, 7 p.m.

Blanchester Aug. 28 at Clinton-Massie Sept. 4 vs. Reading Sept. 11 at Western Brown Sept. 18 vs. Goshen Sept. 25 vs. Bethel-Tate Oct. 2 vs. Hillsboro Oct. 9 at Williamsburg Oct. 16 at East Clinton Oct. 23 vs. Clermont Northeastern Oct. 30 at Batavia

Cincinnati Christian Aug. 28 at Troy Christian Sept. 4 vs. Cedarville Sept. 11 vs. Fairfield Christian Sept. 18 at Dayton Christian Sept. 25 at New Miami Oct. 2 vs. Clark Montessori Oct. 9 at Grove City Christian Oct. 17 at Middletown Christian, 7 p.m.

Oct. 23 vs. Riverview East Oct. 28 at Oyler

Cincinnati Country Day Aug. 28 at Clermont Northeastern Sept. 4 vs. Oyler Sept. 11 at Taylor Sept. 17 vs. Clark Montessori, 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Summit Country Day, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 at North College Hill Oct. 9 vs. Dayton Christian Oct. 16 vs. Lockland Oct. 23 at New Miami Oct. 30 vs. CHCA

CHCA Aug. 28 at Wyoming Sept. 4 vs. Madeira Sept. 11 at Mariemont Sept. 18 vs. New Miami Sept. 25 at North College Hill Oct. 2 vs. Summit Country Day Oct. 9 at Lockland Oct. 16 vs. North Hardin, 8 p.m.

Oct. 23 vs. Clark Montessori Oct. 30 at Cincinnati Country Day

Clark Montessori Aug. 29 at Middletown Christian, 7 p.m.

Sept. 5 at Dayton Christian Sept. 11 at Williamsburg Sept. 17 at Cincinnati Country Day, 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 25 vs. Lockland Oct. 2 at Cincinnati Christian Oct. 9 vs. North College Hill Oct. 16 vs. New Miami Oct. 23 at CHCA Oct. 30 at Summit Country Day

Clermont Northeastern Aug. 28 vs. Cincinnati Country Day Sept. 4 vs. Western Brown Sept. 11 at Goshen Sept. 18 at Batavia Sept. 25 vs. New Richmond Oct. 2 vs. East Clinton Oct. 9 vs. Bethel-Tate Oct. 16 at Manchester Oct. 23 at Blanchester Oct. 30 at Williamsburg

Clinton-Massie Aug. 28 vs. Blanchester Sept. 4 at Waynesville Sept. 11 vs. Jonathan Alder Sept. 18 at Hillsboro Sept. 25 vs. Miami Trace Oct. 2 vs. London Oct. 9 vs. Greenfield McClain Oct. 16 at Washington Court House Oct. 23 at Madison Plains Oct. 30 at East Clinton

Colerain Aug. 28 vs. St. Xavier at Nippert Stadium, 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 6 at Elder, noon Sept. 11 vs. DuPont Manual Sept. 18 vs. Lakota East Sept. 24 at Hamilton, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 vs. Princeton Oct. 9 at Sycamore Oct. 16 at Mason Oct. 24 vs. Middletown Oct. 30 at Oak Hills

Deer Park Aug. 28 at New Richmond Sept. 4 vs. New Lebanon Dixie Sept. 10 at Woodward, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 vs. Indian Hill Sept. 25 at Taylor Oct. 2 vs. Finneytown Oct. 9 at Wyoming Oct. 16 at Madeira Oct. 23 vs. Mariemont Oct. 30 vs. Reading

East Clinton Aug. 28 vs. Waynesville Sept. 4 at Williamsburg Sept. 11 at Greeneview Sept. 18 at Western Brown Oct. 2 at Clermont Northeastern Oct. 9 at New Richmond Oct. 16 vs. Blanchester Oct. 23 vs. Batavia Oct. 30 vs. Clinton-Massie

Edgewood Aug. 28 vs. Withrow Sept. 4 at East Central Sept. 11 vs. Meadowdale Sept. 18 vs. Wilmington Sept. 25 at Harrison Oct. 2 at Northwest Oct. 9 at Ross Oct. 16 vs. Talawanda Oct. 23 vs. Norwood Oct. 30 at Mount Healthy

Elder Aug. 29 vs. East St. Louis at Nippert Stadium, 8:15 p.m.

Sept. 6 vs. Colerain, noon Sept. 11 vs. Louisville Trinity Sept. 18 at La Salle Sept. 26 at Lakewood St. Edward, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 at St. Xavier Oct. 9 vs. Moeller Oct. 16 vs. Columbus St. Francis DeSales Oct. 30 vs. Western Hills

Fairfield Aug. 28 at Springboro Sept. 4 vs. Piqua Sept. 11 vs. Winton Woods Sept. 18 at Princeton Sept. 25 vs. Oak Hills Oct. 2 at Middletown Oct. 9 vs. Lakota West Oct. 16 at Sycamore Oct. 23 vs. Mason Oct. 30 at Hamilton

Fenwick Aug. 28 at Mariemont Sept. 4 vs. Monroe Sept. 11 vs. Talawanda Sept. 19 at Purcell Marian, 1 p.m.

Sept. 25 vs. Roger Bacon Oct. 2 at Chaminade-Julienne Oct. 9 vs. Alter Oct. 17 at Badin Oct. 23 vs. McNicholas Oct. 30 vs. Dayton Carroll

Finneytown Aug. 28 vs. Northwest Sept. 5 at Shroder Paideia Sept. 11 vs. Middletown Madison Sept. 18 vs. Madeira Sept. 25 vs. Reading Oct. 2 at Deer Park Oct. 9 at Mariemont Oct. 16 vs. Wyoming Oct. 23 at Indian Hill Oct. 30 vs. Taylor

Glen Este Aug. 28 at Sycamore Sept. 4 at Lakota East Sept. 11 vs. Princeton Sept. 18 vs. Amelia Sept. 25 vs. Northwest Oct. 2 at Loveland Oct. 9 at Milford Oct. 16 vs. Anderson Oct. 23 vs. Harrison Oct. 30 at Winton Woods

Goshen Aug. 28 vs. Ross Sept. 4 vs. Little Miami Sept. 11 vs. Clermont Northeastern Sept. 18 at Blanchester Sept. 25 at East Clinton Oct. 2 at Western Brown Oct. 9 vs. Batavia Oct. 16 at New Richmond Oct. 23 vs. Bethel-Tate Oct. 30 vs. West Carrollton

Hamilton Aug. 28 at Springfield Sept. 4 vs. Moeller Sept. 11 at Taft Sept. 18 at Lakota West Sept. 24 vs. Colerain, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 vs. Sycamore Oct. 9 at Mason Oct. 16 vs. Lakota East Oct. 23 at Princeton Oct. 30 vs. Fairfield

Harrison Aug. 28 at East Central Sept. 4 vs. Oak Hills Sept. 11 at Kings Sept. 18 at Talawanda Sept. 25 vs. Edgewood Oct. 2 at Milford Oct. 9 vs. Winton Woods Oct. 16 vs. Loveland

INSIDE

SPECIAL FEATURES

m St. Xavier quarterback Luke Massa is back from an injury, hoping to get the Bombers back on top. C10 m After a blowout playoff loss to end 2008, Woodward has vowed not to let history repeat itself. C11 m Big names dot Lakota West’s roster, but the Firebirds know team play is more important to their success this season. C13 m Senior running back Jeremy Scott worked hard to get stronger and faster, which is good news for his Norwood team and bad news for the rest of the FAVC. C14 m At 24, Western Brown’s new head coach might be young, but he’s not inexperienced. C18

m ULTIMATE FAN: Enter the Ultimate High School Football Fan Sweepstakes, in which you can post photos that show off your school spirit – and possibly win a Skyline Chili tailgate party. Visit cincinnati.com/ ultimatefan to submit photos throughout the season. m MOBILE ALERTS: You can stay up to date with your favorite teams this season by getting football scores sent directly to your mobile phone. Go to cincinnati .zebramm.com to sign up. It’s free! m HIGH SCHOOL BLOG: Check the high school blog at Cincinnati.Com for news and analysis from Mike Dyer and Ryan Ernst, updated throughout the day.

THE SCHEDULES Oct. 23 at Glen Este Oct. 30 vs. Anderson

Hughes Aug. 28 at Milford Sept. 3 vs. North College Hill, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 at Walnut Hills Sept. 18 at Aiken Sept. 25 vs. Withrow Oct. 3 vs. West Carrollton, 1:30 p.m.

Oct. 10 vs. Western Hills, 1:30 p.m.

Oct. 16 vs. Shroder Paideia Oct. 22 at Woodward, 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 at Taft

Indian Hill Aug. 28 vs. McNicholas Sept. 4 at Valley View Sept. 11 vs. Turpin Sept. 18 at Deer Park Sept. 25 at Madeira Oct. 2 vs. Mariemont Oct. 9 vs. Reading Oct. 16 at Taylor Oct. 23 vs. Finneytown Oct. 30 at Wyoming

Kings Aug. 28 at Lebanon Sept. 4 at Talawanda Sept. 11 vs. Harrison Sept. 18 vs. Loveland Sept. 25 at Winton Woods Oct. 2 vs. Amelia Oct. 9 vs. Turpin Oct. 16 at Wilmington Oct. 23 at Little Miami Oct. 30 vs. Walnut Hills

La Salle Aug. 28 vs. Oak Hills at Nippert Stadium, 6 p.m.

Sept. 5 at Covington Catholic, 1 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Lakota East Sept. 18 vs. Elder Sept. 25 vs. Lima Oct. 2 at Bishop Watterson Oct. 9 at St. Xavier Oct. 16 at Moeller Oct. 23 vs. St. Francis De Sales Oct. 30 at Walsh Jesuit, 7 p.m.

Lakota East Aug. 28 at Centerville Sept. 4 vs. Glen Este Sept. 11 at La Salle Sept. 18 at Colerain Sept. 25 vs. Princeton Oct. 1 at Oak Hills, 7 p.m.

Oct. 9 vs. Middletown Oct. 16 at Hamilton Oct. 23 vs. Sycamore Oct. 30 vs. Lakota West

Lakota West

Mason Aug. 27 vs. Trotwood-Madison at Welcome Stadium Sept. 4 vs. Centerville Sept. 11 at Gahanna Lincoln Sept. 18 at Oak Hills Sept. 25 vs. Middletown Oct. 2 at Lakota West Oct. 9 vs. Hamilton Oct. 16 vs. Colerain Oct. 23 at Fairfield Oct. 30 vs. Sycamore

McNicholas Aug. 28 at Indian Hill Sept. 4 at Turpin Sept. 11 vs. Loveland Sept. 18 vs. Chaminade-Julienne Sept. 25 at Alter Oct. 2 at Roger Bacon Oct. 10 at Purcell Marian, 1 p.m.

Oct. 16 vs. Dayton Carroll Oct. 23 at Fenwick Oct. 30 vs. Badin

Middletown Aug. 28 vs. Aiken Sept. 5 vs. East St. Louis, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Lima Sept. 18 vs. Sycamore Sept. 25 at Mason Oct. 2 vs. Fairfield Oct. 9 at Lakota East Oct. 16 vs. Oak Hills Oct. 24 at Colerain, 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 at Princeton

Middletown Madison Aug. 28 at Heath Sept. 4 vs. Troy Christian Sept. 11 at Finneytown Sept. 18 at Northridge Sept. 25 vs. Monroe Oct. 2 at Franklin Oct. 9 at Carlisle Oct. 16 vs. Preble Shawnee Oct. 23 vs. New Lebanon Dixie Oct. 30 at Waynesville

Milford Aug. 28 vs. Hughes Sept. 4 at Walnut Hills Sept. 11 at Amelia Sept. 18 vs. Woodward Sept. 25 at Mount Healthy Oct. 2 vs. Harrison Oct. 9 vs. Glen Este Oct. 16 at Winton Woods Oct. 23 at Anderson Oct. 30 vs. Loveland

Moeller

Aug. 28 vs. Northmont at Welcome Stadium, 6 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. Lancaster Sept. 11 at Fairmont Sept. 18 vs. Hamilton Sept. 25 at Sycamore Oct. 2 vs. Mason Oct. 9 at Fairfield Oct. 16 vs. Princeton Oct. 23 at Oak Hills Oct. 30 at Lakota East

Aug. 29 vs. Winton Woods at Nippert Stadium, 5:30 p.m.

Sept. 4 at Hamilton Sept. 11 at Centerville Sept. 19 at Findlay, 7 p.m.

Sept. 26 vs. Mentor, 2 p.m.

Oct. 3 vs. Medina Highland, 2 p.m.

Oct. 9 at Elder Oct. 16 vs. La Salle Oct. 24 at Lakewood St. Edward, 2 p.m.

Oct. 31 vs. St. Xavier

Lebanon

Monroe

Aug. 28 vs. Kings Sept. 4 at Loveland Sept. 11 vs. Trotwood-Madison Sept. 18 at Fairmont Sept. 25 vs. Piqua Oct. 2 at Springboro Oct. 9 at Troy Oct. 16 vs. Fairborn Oct. 23 vs. Xenia Oct. 30 at Miamisburg

Aug. 29 at Meadowdale, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 at Fenwick Sept. 11 vs. Valley View Sept. 18 vs. Bellbrook Sept. 25 at Middletown Madison Oct. 2 vs. Carlisle Oct. 9 vs. Preble Shawnee Oct. 16 at New Lebanon Dixie Oct. 23 at Waynesville Oct. 30 vs. Northridge

Little Miami

Mount Healthy

Aug. 28 vs. Belmont Sept. 4 at Goshen Sept. 11 vs. Northwest Sept. 18 at Ross Sept. 25 vs. Norwood Oct. 2 vs. Wilmington Oct. 9 at Walnut Hills Oct. 16 at Turpin Oct. 23 vs. Kings Oct. 30 at Amelia

Aug. 28 at Roger Bacon Sept. 4 vs. Western Hills Sept. 11 at Aiken Sept. 18 at Walnut Hills Sept. 25 vs. Milford Oct. 2 at Talawanda Oct. 9 at Norwood Oct. 16 vs. Ross Oct. 23 at Northwest Oct. 30 vs. Edgewood

Lockland

New Richmond

Aug. 28 vs. Bethel-Tate Sept. 4 vs. Aiken Sept. 11 at New Lebanon Dixie Sept. 18 vs. Summit Country Day Sept. 25 at Clark Montessori Oct. 2 at New Miami Oct. 9 vs. CHCA Oct. 16 at Cincinnati Country Day Oct. 23 vs. North College Hill Oct. 30 vs. Fayetteville

Aug. 28 vs. Deer Park Sept. 4 vs. Mariemont Sept. 11 at Bethel-Tate Sept. 18 vs. Williamsburg Sept. 25 at Clermont Northeastern Oct. 2 at Batavia Oct. 9 vs. East Clinton Oct. 16 vs. Goshen Oct. 23 vs. Western Brown Oct. 30 at Greenville

Loveland

New Miami

Aug. 28 vs. Turpin Sept. 4 vs. Lebanon Sept. 11 at McNicholas Sept. 18 at Kings Sept. 25 at Wilmington Oct. 2 vs. Glen Este Oct. 9 vs. Anderson Oct. 16 at Harrison Oct. 23 vs. Winton Woods Oct. 30 at Milford

Aug. 28 vs. Paint Valley Sept. 4 at Preble Shawnee Sept. 11 at Batavia Sept. 18 at CHCA Sept. 25 vs. Cincinnati Christian Oct. 2 vs. Lockland Oct. 9 at Summit Country Day Oct. 16 at Clark Montessori Oct. 23 vs. Cincinnati Country Day Oct. 30 at North College Hill

Madeira

North College Hill

Aug. 28 vs. Shroder Paideia Sept. 4 at CHCA Sept. 11 vs. North College Hill Sept. 18 at Finneytown Sept. 25 vs. Indian Hill Oct. 2 at Wyoming Oct. 9 at Taylor Oct. 16 vs. Deer Park Oct. 23 at Reading Oct. 30 vs. Mariemont

Aug. 28 vs. Reading Sept. 3 at Hughes, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 at Madeira Sept. 17 at Patterson Career Center Sept. 25 vs. CHCA Oct 2 vs. Cincinnati Country Day Oct. 9 at Clark Montessori Oct. 16 vs. Summit Country Day Oct. 23 at Lockland Oct. 30 vs. New Miami

Mariemont

Northwest

Aug. 28 vs. Fenwick Sept. 4 at New Richmond Sept. 11 vs. CHCA Sept. 18 at Taylor Sept. 25 vs. Wyoming Oct. 2 at Indian Hill Oct. 9 vs. Finneytown Oct. 16 vs. Reading Oct. 23 at Deer Park Oct. 30 at Madeira

Aug. 28 at Finneytown Sept. 4 vs. Amelia Sept. 11 at Little Miami Sept. 18 vs. Turpin Sept. 25 at Glen Este Oct. 2 vs. Edgewood Oct. 9 vs. Talawanda Oct. 16 at Norwood Oct. 23 vs. Mount Healthy Oct. 30 at Ross

Norwood

Taft

Aug. 28 at Campbell County Sept. 4 at Purcell Marian Sept. 11 vs. Wyoming Sept. 18 vs. Thurgood Marshall Sept. 25 at Little Miami Oct. 2 at Ross Oct. 9 vs. Mount Healthy Oct. 16 vs. Northwest Oct. 23 at Edgewood Oct. 30 vs. Talawanda

Aug. 28 at Anderson Sept. 4 vs. Badin Sept. 11 vs. Hamilton Sept. 18 at Withrow Sept. 26 at Aiken Oct. 2 at Shroder Paideia Oct. 9 at Woodward Oct. 17 at Dayton Dunbar, 7 p.m.

Oct. 23 vs. Western Hills Oct. 30 at Hughes

Oak Hills

Talawanda

Aug. 28 vs. La Salle at Nippert, 6 p.m.

Sept. 4 at Harrison Sept. 11 vs. Walnut Ridge Sept. 18 vs. Mason Sept. 25 at Fairfield Oct. 1 vs. Lakota East, 7 p.m.

Oct. 9 at Princeton Oct. 16 at Middletown Oct. 23 vs. Lakota West Oct. 30 vs. Colerain

Aug. 28 at Eaton Sept. 4 vs. Kings Sept. 11 at Fenwick Sept. 18 vs. Harrison Sept. 25 vs. Walnut Hills Oct. 2 vs. Mount Healthy Oct. 9 at Northwest Oct. 16 at Edgewood Oct. 23 vs. Ross Oct. 30 at Norwood

Princeton

Taylor

Aug. 28 vs. Huber Heights Wayne at Welcome Stadium, 8:15 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. George Washington Comm.

Sept. 11 at Glen Este Sept. 18 vs. Fairfield Sept. 25 at Lakota East Oct. 2 at Colerain Oct. 9 vs. Oak Hills Oct. 16 at Lakota West Oct. 23 vs. Hamilton Oct. 30 vs. Middletown

Aug. 28 at Ludlow, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 at Dayton, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Cincinnati Country Day Sept. 18 vs. Mariemont Sept. 25 vs. Deer Park Oct. 2 at Reading Oct. 9 vs. Madeira Oct. 16 vs. Indian Hill Oct. 23 at Wyoming Oct. 30 at Finneytown

Purcell Marian Aug. 28 vs. Walnut Hills Sept. 4 at Norwood Sept. 11 at Reading Sept. 19 vs. Fenwick, 1 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Dayton Carroll Oct. 3 vs. Badin, 1 p.m.

Oct. 10 vs. McNicholas, 1 p.m.

Oct. 16 vs. Chaminade-Julienne Oct. 23 at Alter Oct. 30 at Roger Bacon

Reading Aug. 28 at North College Hill Sept. 4 at Blanchester Sept. 11 vs. Purcell Marian Sept. 17 vs. Wyoming, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Finneytown Oct. 2 vs. Taylor Oct. 9 at Indian Hill Oct. 16 at Mariemont Oct. 22 vs. Madeira, 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 at Deer Park

Roger Bacon Aug. 28 vs. Mount Healthy Aug. 4 at Campbell County Sept. 11 vs. Sycamore Sept. 18 at Carroll Sept. 25 at Fenwick Oct. 2 vs. McNicholas Oct. 9 at Badin Oct. 16 vs. Alter Oct. 23 at Chaminade-Julienne Oct. 30 vs. Purcell Marian

Ross Aug. 28 at Goshen Sept. 4 vs. Franklin Sept. 11 at Badin Sept. 18 vs. Little Miami Sept. 25 at Turpin Oct. 2 vs. Norwood Oct. 9 vs. Edgewood Oct. 16 at Mount Healthy Oct. 23 at Talawanda Oct. 30 vs. Northwest

Shroder Paideia Aug. 28 at Madeira Sept. 5 vs. Finneytown Sept. 11 at Simon Kenton Sept. 19 at Western Hills Sept. 26 vs. Belmont, 1:30 p.m.

Oct. 2 vs. Taft Oct. 10 vs. Withrow Oct. 16 at Hughes Oct. 24 at Aiken Oct. 29 vs. Woodward, 7 p.m.

Springboro Aug. 28 vs. Fairfield Sept. 4 at Sycamore Sept. 11 at Piqua Sept. 18 vs. Butler Sept. 25 at Sidney Oct. 2 vs. Lebanon Oct. 9 at Miamisburg Oct. 16 at Xenia Oct. 23 vs. Trotwood-Madison Oct. 30 vs. Fairborn

St. Xavier Aug. 28 vs. Colerain at Nippert Stadium, 8:30 p.m.

Sept. 5 at Indianapolis Cathedral, 1:45 p.m.

Sept. 11 at Louisville St. Xavier Sept. 18 vs. Louisville Trinity Sept. 25 at Highlands Oct. 2 vs. Elder Oct. 9 vs. La Salle Oct. 17 vs. Lakewood St. Edward, 2 p.m.

Oct. 24 at Cleveland St. Ignatius, 2 p.m.

Oct. 31 at Moeller

Summit Country Day Aug. 28 vs. Williamsburg, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. Evangel, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 vs. Oyler, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 at Lockland Sept. 25 vs. Cincinnati Country Day, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 at CHCA Oct. 9 vs. New Miami, 7 p.m.

Oct. 16 at North College Hill Oct. 23 vs. Fort Loramie, 7 p.m.

Oct. 30 vs. Clark Montessori, 7 p.m.

Sycamore Aug. 28 vs. Glen Este Sept. 4 vs. Springboro Sept. 11 at Roger Bacon Sept. 18 at Middletown Sept. 25 vs. Lakota West Oct. 2 at Hamilton Oct. 9 vs. Colerain Oct. 16 vs. Fairfield Oct. 23 at Lakota East Oct. 30 at Mason

Turpin Aug. 28 at Loveland Sept. 4 vs. McNicholas Sept. 11 at Indian Hill Sept. 18 at Northwest Sept. 25 vs. Ross Oct. 2 at Walnut Hills Oct. 9 at Kings Oct.16 vs. Little Miami Oct. 23 vs. Amelia Oct. 30 at Wilmington

Walnut Hills Aug. 28 at Purcell Marian Sept. 4 vs. Milford Sept. 11 vs. Hughes Sept. 18 vs. Mount Healthy Sept. 25 at Talawanda Oct 2 vs. Turpin Oct. 9 vs. Little Miami Oct. 16 at Amelia Oct. 23 vs. Wilmington Oct. 30 at Kings

Western Brown Aug. 28 at Hillsboro Sept. 4 at Clermont Northeastern Sept. 11 vs. Blanchester Sept. 18 vs. East Clinton Sept. 25 at Williamsburg Oct. 2 vs. Goshen Oct. 9 vs. Washington Court House Oct. 16 vs. Bethel-Tate Oct. 23 at New Richmond Oct. 30 vs. Portsmouth

Western Hills Aug. 28 vs. Richmond (Ind.) Sept. 4 at Mount Healthy Sept. 12 vs. Central, 7 p.m.

Sept. 19 vs. Shroder Paideia Sept. 24 at Woodward Oct. 3 vs. Aiken Oct. 10 at Hughes Oct. 17 vs. Withrow Oct. 23 at Taft Oct. 30 at Elder

Williamsburg Aug. 28 at Summit Country Day Sept. 4 vs. East Clinton Sept. 11 vs. Clark Montessori Sept. 18 at New Richmond Sept. 25 at Western Brown Oct. 2 at Bethel-Tate Oct. 9 vs. Blanchester Oct. 16 at Batavia Oct. 23 vs. Landmark Christian Oct. 30 vs. Clermont Northeastern

Wilmington Aug. 28 vs. West Carrollton Sept. 4 at Miami Trace Sept. 11 vs. Chillicothe Sept. 18 at Edgewood Sept. 25 vs. Loveland Oct. 2 at Little Miami Oct. 9 at Amelia Oct. 16 vs. Kings Oct. 23 at Walnut Hills Oct. 30 vs. Turpin

Winton Woods Aug. 29 vs. Moeller at Nippert Stadium, 5:30 p.m.

Sept. 4 vs. Withrow Sept. 11 at Fairfield Sept. 18 at Bishop Watterson Sept. 25 vs. Kings Oct. 2 at Anderson Oct. 9 at Harrison Oct. 16 vs. Milford Oct. 23 at Loveland Oct. 30 vs. Glen Este

Withrow Aug. 28 at Edgewood Sept. 4 at Winton Woods Sept. 11 vs. Highlands Sept. 18 vs. Taft Sept. 25 at Hughes Oct. 2 vs. Woodward Oct. 9 at Shroder Paideia Oct. 17 at Western Hills Oct. 23 vs. Holmes Oct. 30 vs. Aiken

Woodward Aug. 28 at Badin Sept. 4 vs. Anderson Sept. 10 vs. Deer Park, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 at Milford Sept. 24 vs. Western Hills, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 at Withrow Oct. 9 vs. Taft Oct. 15 at Aiken, 7 p.m.

Oct. 22 vs. Hughes, 7 p.m.

Oct. 29 at Shroder Paideia, 7 p.m.

Wyoming Aug. 28 vs. CHCA Sept. 4 at Oakwood Sept. 11 at Norwood Sept. 17 at Reading, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 at Mariemont Oct. 2 vs. Madeira Oct. 9 vs. Deer Park Oct. 16 at Finneytown Oct. 23 vs. Taylor Oct. 30 vs. Indian Hill

C10 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009

THE ENQUIRER

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

GREATER CATHOLIC LEAGUE | CENTRAL UC recruit Solomon Tentman will lead Roger Bacon.

(Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Roger Bacon

Community Press/Mark Chalifoux

Games to watch m Matchup: Alter at Badin, Sept. 18 Notes: The Rams host Alter in a rematch of a 2008 playoff game in which Badin was eliminated. Alter beat Badin 42-7 on Nov. 7 to end the Rams’ season. Alter also beat Badin 56-7 on Sept. 20. m Matchup: McNicholas at Roger Bacon, Oct. 2 Notes: The top two teams in the GCL Central coaches’ poll meet at Roger Bacon. McNicholas was picked to win the division last season but suffered through a disappointing year. The Rockets have a chance to return to the top with a win in this game. m Matchup: Roger Bacon at Badin, Oct. 9 Notes: It’s the early favorite for the league title visiting the defending GCL Central champ. The Spartans might have a chance to assert themselves as the top team in the division with this game.

Division: III Coach: Kevin Huxel (21-50) Last year: 4-6 (3-4) Last league title: 2005 Players to watch: Senior LB Solomon Tentman; senior WR/ DB Jorian Hudson; senior QB Josh Ungerbuehler.

Other key players: Senior LB Drake Fletcher; senior DE Matt Westerfeld; senior WR Jake Rose; senior DB Vegas White.

Outlook: Huxel doesn’t have an extremely experienced team, but he likes what he’s seeing from his eight seniors. “I get great leadership out of those guys,” he said. “So we’re looking for exciting things because even though we’ve only got a few, those are our leaders and they’re in our key positions.” With Tentman (a UC commit), Hudson, Fletcher, Westerfeld and White returning, Huxel expects his team to be very strong on defense. The question mark will be the offen-

sive line. “If we can get the offensive line to come around, we look for a real solid year,” Huxel said. “We’re not going to be real big up front either.” Ungerbuehler and Hudson lead a strong core of skill players.

McNicholas Division: III Coach: Steve Klonne (186-69) Last year: 3-7 (2-5) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Junior QB/ SE Matt Staubach; junior RB/LB Ryan Haynes; senior LB/TE Alex Hay; senior QB/SE Ryan Curran; junior FB/LB Pat Fitzgerald.

Outlook: Staubach and Curran each look to take snaps at quarterback. “At this point, Staubach and Curran are fighting it out,” Klonne said. “Both will play quarterback and both will also play other positions on offense.” After a disappointing 2008, the Rockets want to move forward. “We just want to improve on last year,” Klonne said. “We’ve got a lot of improvement to do. When you’re

Purcell Marian

Division: IV Coach: Brian Miller (5-25) Last year: 1-9 (0-7) Last league title: 1999 Players to watch: Senior DB Tim Mitchell; senior OL Pat MurBadin phy; senior OL/DL Mike Virge.

Division: V Other key players: Senior Coach: Bill Tenore (first OL/DL Ashton Jones; senior WR season) Ben Meinking.

Last year: 8-4 (6-1) Outlook: After consecutive Last league title: 2008 0-7 seasons in the GCL, Miller’s Players to watch: Junior QB Cavaliers hope to climb out of Patrick Coyne; junior WR Jeff the Central cellar. “Last year we Smith; junior WR Tyler Sanders; struggled, but we lost six games senior OT Josh Gavin; junior WR by a total of 30 points,” Miller Alex Rieman; senior LB Matt said. “What we’re really focusCombs. ing in on right now is getting off Outlook: Tenore inherits a to a fast start and finishing team missing some key players football games.” In its last from its division champion three games of 2008, Purcell squad of 2008, but the new Marian either had the lead or coach thinks the Rams will con- the game was tied and the Cavtend. “I think that we got a pret- aliers ended up losing in overty good mix of experience while time or the final minutes. “If being able to fill some holes left we’re more consistent from the by the guys we lost,” Tenore first quarter to the fourth quarsaid. The Rams will have good ter, things will go our way,” Millsize on the offensive line and an er said. “We just need to learn array of skill players such as how to win. Our kids have Coyne, Smith, Sanders and Rie- learned that you have to fight man. “The outlook is promising,” through all four quarters and Tenore said. “But the question finish things off.” is depth.”

— Tom Ramstetter 3-7, you’ve got to get a lot better. So anything better than that is what our goal is.”

BIG CHIP ON HIS SHOULDER St. X QB Massa back on track after breaking collarbone in ’08

By Tom Ramstetter tramstetter@enquirer.com

A year ago, St. Xavier quarterback Luke Massa was coming off a football state championship season with high hopes of a repeat performance.

As a sophomore in 2007, he had gone 7-0 at quarterback after then-senior starter John Hurley suffered a knee injury, and Massa led the Bombers to their second Division I state title in three years.

But Massa suffered a fate similar to Hurley’s in Week 5 last season when he broke his left collarbone diving out of bounds during the Bombers’ 17-6 loss at Louisville Trinity. He then missed the rest of the season. St. X had won three straight games after falling to Colerain in the opener, in which Massa did not play, but the season spiraled down from there and the Bombers finished 4-6 (0-3 Greater Catholic League South).

Now Massa, who has orally committed to the University of Cincinnati, is back under center, and the senior again has high hopes for his final season in a Bombers uniform.

He was able to play basketball for the Bombers last winter, so there should be no question about his health.

“I’m fully recovered,” Massa said. “It’s my left shoulder, so it has nothing to do with me throwing. And my foot is fully healed, so I feel really healthy right now.”

Massa had broken his right foot playing basketball his sophomore year and had surgery. He later tore some scar tissue, causing him to miss the Bombers’ football opener.

The Enquirer/Michael E. Keating

St. Xavier quarterback Luke Massa broke his collarbone last season, when the Bombers finished last in the GCL South. Now, Massa is healthy again, and he and his teammates are out “to prove to everyone that the Bombers will be back this year.”

After a last-place finish in the GCL South, Massa’s Bombers aren’t being mentioned as a favorite in the league in 2009. Elder reached the Division I state final last year, and Moeller is expected to challenge the Panthers for the league title.

“It’s definitely a change for St. X, but we kind of like it, just because every year we usually have a ton of pressure on us,” Massa said. “This year we can go out and we won’t be the team that’s nervous like Colerain and Moeller and all them that are expected to win. That’s kind of a good feeling.”

It’s a feeling that could help the Bombers surprise some teams.

“I think it’s going to give X a

Metal health Luke Massa’s body has been through a lot in the past two years, but one thing it might not make it through is a metal detector.

After breaking his collarbone last season, Massa had his upper body somewhat reconstructed.

“I have a metal bar in there, so I don’t think anything is going to happen,” the quarterback said. “I had the metal bar put in my body, and there were a total of eight screws put in. After that, I was in a sling for five weeks. I was good to go after that.”

lot more confidence,” Moeller coach John Rodenberg said. “I think X is definitely playing with a chip on its shoulder. They didn’t have the season they wanted to have last year and he (Massa) was hurt, so I think he brings

GREATER CATHOLIC LEAGUE | SOUTH (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Moeller Division: I Coach: John Rodenberg (88-69) Last year: 6-5 (2-1) Last league title: 2000 Players to watch: Senior QB Andrew Hendrix; senior TE David Schneider; junior RB Richie Dyer; senior DE Marcus Rush; junior DE Jesse Hayes; senior LB Nick Galvin; junior LB Kendall Walker.

Other key players: Senior K Corey Smith; senior CB Ethan McAlpine.

Outlook: Rodenberg knows his team is loaded this season, but the team’s experience might weigh just as heavily as its talent. “Playing in our league and in our region is going to be extremely difficult,” Rodenberg said. “But with the returning starters and the experience that we have, we got the opportunity to make it a good season.”

Hendrix committed to Notre Dame after passing for 1,609 yards last season, but he’ll have

to play at a high level to be the top QB in the league this season. “You’ve got three high-profile quarterbacks (in the GCL South),” Rodenberg said. “Our quarterback has (committed to) Notre Dame, (Elder’s) Mark Miller has taken his team to the state final and (St. Xavier’s Luke) Massa has obviously won a state title.” The coach, in his second year at Moeller, is confident. “I think Elder and us will bang for first,” Rodenberg said.

Elder Division: I Coach: Doug Ramsey (109-35) Last year: 13-2 (3-0) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior QB Mark Miller; senior DE Pete Bachman; senior WR Tim O’Conner; senior TE Alex Welch.

Other key players: Senior RB Adam Brown; junior RB Ben Coffaro; senior K Tony Miliano; senior LB/P Corey Mason; senior DL David Peters; senior DL Steve Newman; junior LB Jacob Lindsey.

Outlook: Ramsey is in his

13th season as coach at Elder and has a 109-35 career record, two wins from tying J. Walter Bartlett as the school’s winningest coach. Ramsey probably will reach that milestone early in the season with another state-title competitor.

Miller was named first-team allstate in 2008 and completed 229 of 343 passes for 3,327 yards and 31 touchdowns as a junior. O’Conner, an Indiana commit, set a Division I statefinal record with 15 catches to go with 184 yards and two touchdowns, and finished with 71 catches for 1,003 yards and 13 touchdowns. And Welch, a Notre Dame commit, is also back. The key for the offense will be restocking the line, which lost Austen Bujnoch and John Anevski. On defense, Peters, Newman, Mason and Lindsey return as leaders.

St. Xavier Division: I Coach: Steve Specht (55-9) Last year: 4-6 (0-3) Last league title: 2007

a ton of confidence to their team.

Then with having kind of a chip on their shoulder, with not having been as successful as they usually are, it will be a tough situation for anybody who plays them.”

Massa agrees about the chip.

He also said he knows he must be more of a leader this season and that his ability to bounce back and play at the level he did as a sophomore will be key to the Bombers’ fortunes.

Massa said he’s not afraid of the first hit he’ll take this season.

On the contrary, he and his teammates are raring to get on the field Aug. 28 against Colerain in the Skyline Chili Crosstown Showdown at Nippert Stadium.

“Over the summer, we’ve had a lot better focus in the weight room and workouts,” he said.

“Everyone has kind of a bad taste in their mouth from last year, and we just want to prove to everyone that the Bombers will be back this year.”

of pressure on us,” Massa said.

Games to watch m Matchup: Colerain at Elder, Sept. 6 Notes: The state-finalist Panthers take on the Greater Miami Conference powerhouse Cardinals in what could be a preview of the regional final. One more tiny detail: ESPN will televise this game live from The Pit. m Matchup: Moeller at Elder, Oct. 9 Notes: This could be for the GCL South title at The Pit. If the Panthers want to repeat as GCL South champs, they’ll have to stop the Crusaders. Likewise, Moeller could be looking for its first league title since 2000. m Matchup: St. Xavier vs. Moeller at Nippert Stadium, Oct. 31 Notes: The Bombers aren’t the pick to win the league as they so often have been in the past, but if they are going to surprise GCL South followers this season, they’ll need a Week 10 victory over the Crusaders. GCL title or not, this game also has a chance to be make-or-break for either team in trying to reach the postseason.

La Salle

Division: I Coach: Tom Grippa (154-88) Last year: 4-6 (1-2) Last league title: 1995 Players to watch: Senior RB Zach Abbatiello; senior LB Joe Andrews; senior DE Kennen Gibbs; senior DB Pat Bachman; senior DB Cameron Cole.

Other key player: Junior QB Drew Kummer.

Outlook: Kummer completed 20 of 35 pass attempts in 2008 for 319 yards and two touchdowns, and Grippa said the quarterback will have to have a solid season for the Lancers to compete. Gone is former three-year starter Tim Edmond, who rushed for 610 Players to watch: Senior QB their backs after a 4-6 season. yards, so Abbatiello will have to Luke Massa; senior DE Nigel Playing with Moeller and Elder be the force on the ground after Muhammad; senior OL Matt as the favorites might work to carrying 28 times for 167 yards.

James. the Bombers’ advantage as they La Salle averaged just 196 Other key players: Senior work to replace running back yards per game in 2008 while WR Jeff Kraemer; junior RB Dan- Connor Earley, receiver Drew allowing 287. Nonetheless, iel Braswell; junior LB Steven Grombala, linebackers Pete Grippa expects to be in every Daniels; senior DB Nick Weston; Lees and David Herman and game. “We have a solid football senior DB Will Carroll. free safety Justinian Mason. “It’s team that will be competitive in Outlook: The Bombers have definitely a change for St. X, but every game,” Grippa said. “We their quarterback back in the we kind of like it just because need to stay healthy.” fold and do not have a target on every year we usually have a ton — Tom Ramstetter

THE ENQUIRER

CINCINNATI METRO ATHLETIC CONFERENCE (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Withrow Division: I Coach: Doc Gamble (40-21) Last year: 4-6 (3-3) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Senior OLB Anthony Berry; senior MLB Keilan Woods; senior OLB Jordan Murph; senior SS Jamell Blackmon; senior C Bruce Lee; senior QB Ryan Banks; senior WR Tyrone Howell; senior WR Demontre Thorpe; senior CB Morris Jones.

Other key players: Junior RT Mykeal Parker; junior OL/DL Brandon Mitchell; junior RB Dashawn Farley; junior DL Ervin Howard; junior LT Karl Hicks; junior FS Anthony White; junior CB Tyrome Nelson.

Outlook: After a one-year absence from Withrow, Gamble is back and looking to help the Tigers rebound from a sub-par 2008. He’ll turn to Banks, who threw for 1,860 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Banks’ main target probably will be Howell, who caught four TD passes last season. Berry will anchor Withrow’s defense after notching a team-leading 48 tackles to go along with three interceptions, two forced fumbles and a sack.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009 C11

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Woodward Division: I Coach: Jeremy Patterson (first season) Last year: 10-1 (6-0) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior DB Raheem Pearson; senior DB/WR Larry Woods; senior C/LB Darrian McCoy; senior DE Arrantino Williams; junior TE/LB Dominic Edwards; junior LB/OT Tommie Hart; junior QB Kiez Gordon; junior SS/WR Ore Jackson.

Other key players: Senior WR Brandon Smith; sophomore RB/ LB Demondtre Watkins; junior RB/CB Jeff Peoples.

Outlook: Patterson returns 12 starters as he looks to lead Woodward back to the playoffs for a second straight season.

Gordon will take over at quarterback for the Bulldogs, who return six starters on offense.

Taft Division: IV Coach: Mike Martin (36-31) Last year: 6-4 (5-1) Last league title: 2006 (Southwest Ohio Public League) Players to watch: Senior QB Cam Mitchell; senior RB Abraham Johnson; senior WR/SS Shawntez Johnson; senior OLB Delmarco Williams; senior ILB Demetrius Chapmon; junior WR/ QB Dawayne White; junior CB

Mike Brown; sophomore DE/TE Adolphus Washington; sophomore WR/LB DeWayne Stanford.

Other key players: Senior CB/ WR Terry Williams; senior OL/DL Josh Ushery; junior FS Deandre Goodwin.

Outlook: The Senators open the season with games against Division II state runner-up Anderson (now in D-I), Badin (V), Hamilton (I) and rival Withrow (I), so Taft will know early what kind of shape it is in. Mitchell is back after throwing for 828 yards and 10 TDs last year; on the ground, Johnson totaled 403 yards and two touchdowns. “Taft will have some of the best skill players in the city,” said Martin. “Our defense will be fast and fierce.”

Shroder Division: IV Coach: Gerald Warmack (7-13) Last year: 4-6 (1-5) Last league title: 2004 (SOPL) Players to watch: Senior QB Alex Springs; senior WR Landon Williams; senior WR William Brown; senior RB Winston Wilks; senior CB Chris White.

Other key players: Senior WR Antwan Tolliver; sophomore OL/ DL Jeff Scott; senior DE Brooke Williams; senior LB Kerry Beech.

Outlook: Shroder is loaded with experience, with three three-

year starters on offense, including Springs and Wilks, who is actually a four-year starter. Last season, Springs threw for 1,374 yards and eight touchdowns.

Wilks racked up 1,080 yards and seven touchdowns on the ground. “This team is a work in progress,” said Warmack.

Western Hills Division: I Coach: Paul Jenne (first season) Last year: 4-6 (3-3) Last league title: 2000 (SOPL) Players to watch: Senior WR Denzel Coussett; senior WR/DB Jason Smith; senior RB Jimmy Knight; senior RB/LB Zach Sparks; senior LB Riley Cheatham; senior DE Deonsae Cardwell; senior S Dominique Williams.

Other key players: Junior K Alex Butler; senior OL Ricky Bankhead.

Outlook: Jenne, a former coach at Hilliard Darby, takes over after Christopher MacFarland left for Norwalk. Jenne says his offense will run out of the spread wing-T formation with a lot of running plays because of inexperience at the team’s key positions. “We have a nice core group of kids and they’ve done a great job of working together,” said Jenne.

Games to watch m Matchup: Woodward at Anderson, Sept. 4 Notes: The Bulldogs know that to return to the playoffs and get a postseason win, they’ll need to knock off the likes of defending Division II state runner-up Anderson. m Matchup: Taft at Withrow, Sept. 18 Notes: The Tigers are looking to avenge last year’s 22-7 loss at Taft in this year’s edition of the CMAC’s best rivalry. m Matchup: Woodward at Withrow, Oct. 2 Notes: This matchup could have league title implications, as coaches have picked these teams to finish atop the CMAC.

eron Tye; senior G Deante Alexander.

Outlook: Aiken has just 10 seniors, but Green says his team discusses the CMAC title as a goal for the season. “We have high expectations for our team,” Green said. Taper has improved his mechanics and should be a better runner. The linebacker corps is very quick in the 3-5 scheme. Green called Rozier a “tackling machine.” The key will be the offensive line, which must protect Taper. The Falcons lost their top four defensive linemen.

Hughes

Division: II Coach: Denny Doppes (9-46) Last year: 2-8 (2-4) Last league title: 1997 (Queen City Conference) Players to watch: Senior QB/ CB B.J. Lowery; senior RB/LB Aiken Mykiale White; senior C Marland Division: II Mullins; senior OT Jamal Jette.

Coach: Troy Green (7-23) Other key players: Junior OT Last year: 3-7 (1-5) Charles Cox; senior WR Sean Last league title: 2002 Goodwin; senior WR Darius Wil(SOPL) kinson; senior SS Sandy Foster; Players to watch: Junior QB senior DB Dominique Duke.

Anthony Taper; sophomore RB Outlook: Doppes says many Clarence Carter; sophomore WR athletes will play both ways. But Marcus Knox; sophomore OT with Lowery operating the Big Yoshua Bradley; junior LB AntRed’s option offense, Doppes is waun Rozier; senior LB Brandon Nelson; junior FS Anthony Dodds. confident Hughes can improve.

Other key players: Junior DE/ “Lowery is one of the best athletes in the city. With the ball in WR Manny Nelson; sophomore LB Kimani Smith; sophomore LB his hands, we should be competitive week in and week out,” Lazerus Myers; sophomore WRDB Jamaine Freeman; senior CB Doppes said.

— Cedric K. Brown Marquis Zellars; senior CB Cam-

m COACHES, PLEASE REPORT RESULTS: Please call in results immediately after your game, at 513-768-8452 or 513-768-8447. Please be prepared to identify scorers for each team, as well as other top performers.

The Enquirer/Joseph Fuqua II

Woodward’s Raheem Pearson (left), Darrian McCoy, coach Jeremy Patterson and Kiez Gordon have playoff goals.

BULLDOGS BITING BACK Playoff drubbing inspires team

By Cedric K. Brown ckbrown@enquirer.com

It’s safe to say Woodward’s 2009 season began as soon as the Bulldogs walked off the field for the final time last season – shortly after suffering a 52-0 defeat at the hands of Huber Heights Wayne in the first round of the regional playoffs.

“At the end of the Wayne game, we all sat in the locker room and came to a conclusion: We would never let that happen again. The way we got beat like that – never again,” said Woodward firstyear head coach Jeremy Patterson, who served as the team’s offensive coordinator the past two seasons. “That very next Monday, kids were in the weight room.”

Patterson said nearly every player showed up after school that Monday, including a few seniors who already had played their last game at Woodward.

The Bulldogs had achieved a perfect 10-0 season to make their first Division I playoff appearance in school history.

Woodward became the first Cincinnati Public Schools team to reach the Division I playoffs since Western Hills in 2000.

“It was embarrassing,” Patterson said. “Getting whupped like that really makes you open your eyes.”

Patterson is taking steps to avoid the postseason downfall that pained the Bulldogs last season.

Woodward’s critics were quick to point out the lack of challenging teams the Bulldogs faced in the regular season. That won’t be the case this year as the Bulldogs will travel to Anderson Sept. 4 to face the Redskins, who were last season’s Division II state runners-up.

“Anderson is on our schedule for a reason,” said Patterson. “If we’re a playoff team, then they’re certainly a playoff team. It’s better to face these caliber teams early in the season than to have to face them for the first time in the end.

“If you want to play the best (teams), you have to play them now and not wait until the end of the season. After Week 2, we’ll know exactly where we stand. That game will be a great test for us to gauge if we’ve made any pro-

2008 results Date Opponent Aug. 21 Badin Aug. 28 Belmont Sept. 4 Lockland Sept. 11 Milford Sept. 19 at Western Hills Sept. 26 Withrow Oct. 3 at Taft Oct. 9 Aiken Oct. 16 at Hughes Oct. 23 Shroder Paideia Nov. 1 at Wayne

Score W, 38-28 W, 58-0 W, 48-6 W, 22-14 W, 44-0 W, 36-6 W, 16-0 W, 60-14 W, 54-14 W, 30-17 L, 52-0

gress from Wayne.”

Woodward returns six starters on offense and six on defense after losing 25 players to graduation. The Bulldogs will be led by junior quarterback Kiez Gordon.

But Gordon is entering the season with no experience playing quarterback at the varsity level, so Patterson says he hopes to play a “smashmouth” style to help relieve some of the pressure on the QB. “We’re going to try and dictate the tempo of every game on defense,” said Patterson, who was the head coach at Harmony for the 2004 season.

On offense, the Bulldogs will add a tight end, junior Dominic Edwards, and try to control the ball – a departure from the spread offensive attack of last year.

Patterson says he has noticed an increase in interest in Woodward football stemming from last season’s success.

According to Patterson, Woodward has about 70 players in its football program, a significant jump from last year. Patterson also says more parents and alumni have come out to practices and other events to support the team.

“This is exactly what public schools need, people to come back and have pride in their schools,” Patterson said.

“These kids see the support behind them and they can now be held accountable to a certain expectation. If you play well, then good things will happen.

“To make the playoffs again, we have to go 10-0, no doubt about that, and that’s exactly what we plan to do.

Once you taste the playoffs, you want to go back every year. Having a winning record and winning the league is fine, but reaching the playoffs is what’s important from here on out.”

THE ENQUIRER

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009 C13

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

GREATER MIAMI CONFERENCE (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Colerain

The Enquirer/Cara Owsley

Jordan Hicks’ high-profile recruitment has all eyes on Lakota West this season. Colerain coach Tom Bolden thinks this could be the best team in West history.

FIREBIRDS ASK: WHAT’S IN A NAME? Out to show they’re not just hype

By Mike Dyer mdyer@enquirer.com

Although Lakota West has some of the nation’s most highly rated college prospects in the 2010 class, Firebirds coach Larry Cox said the squad is managing to keep the attention in perspective.

“It’s nice to have players like that,” Cox said. “It gives you a level of confidence.

(But) it doesn’t score touchdowns or make blocks for you.”

Though the name recognition doesn’t make a play on the field, it does make an impact throughout the week on fan message boards and blogs.

Recruiting has kept the Lakota West program in the national spotlight throughout the spring and summer – particularly with the focus on senior linebacker Jordan Hicks, who is rated the nation’s No. 2 player overall in the ESPNU Top 150 ratings.

Hicks, who is considering Alabama, Texas, Ohio State, Georgia, Florida and Southern California (in no particular order), will field plenty of recruiting questions this fall.

And Hicks won’t be alone in the spotlight. Offensive lineman Kevin Schloemer and tight end Alex Smith, who is rated the state’s No. 5 player overall by Ohio High Magazine, have made oral commitments to Cincinnati.

Defensive back Brandon Neal has several Mid-American Conference offers and recently made an oral commitment to play at Ball State.

Add in that the Firebirds haven’t made a postseason appearance since 2006, and this season carries great significance for West. The Firebirds are expected to have 33 seniors.

“This season, I want to win

A good sign?

Lakota West’s schedule is favorable to the Firebirds’ quest for a conference title. West’s league opponents on the schedule this fall went a combined 29-41 in 2008. a state championship,” Hicks said this summer. “The team has bought into it more than any other year, and we are working together and we are depending on each other. It’s just a totally different feeling this year than any other year that we’ve been around.”

Cox said he’s never dealt with this amount of media attention bestowed upon his program, but he says he doesn’t feel extra pressure heading into the season opener against Clayton Northmont on Aug. 28 at Dayton’s Welcome Stadium.

“I think this team is real hungry,” Cox said. “It’s not so much about what everyone else’s expectations are. They just love to compete and love to win more than anything.”

Coaches around the Greater Miami Conference believe the Firebirds will make an impact in the league.

The Firebirds don’t play Colerain or Middletown during the regular season, which could aid in West’s quest for a league title. The Cardinals have won or shared the conference championship for nine consecutive seasons.

“With the talent coming back and all the (college) interest in the players, they have the opportunity and should be on paper the best Lakota West team they’ve had,” Colerain coach Tom Bolden said.

Hamilton Journal-News/Nick Daggy

Defensive back Brandon Neal is another Firebird drawing Division I college interest.He orally committed to Ball State.

Division: I Coach: Tom Bolden (23-3) Last year: 11-2 (6-1) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior QB Greg Tabar (threw for 616 yards and six touchdowns and rushed for 979 yards and 18 touchdowns); junior FB Trayion Durham (1,170 yards and nine touchdowns); junior RB Tyler Williams (1,333 yards and 17 touchdowns); senior LB Tyon Dixon (committed to Louisville and had 3½ sacks); junior LB Jarrett Grace (scholarship offer from UC); junior CB Chris Dukes; senior safety Bam Harrison; senior OL Brandon Good.

Other key players: Sophomore LB Jake Blust; sophomore LB Joe Bolden.

Outlook: With seven returning starters on offense and six on defense, Colerain has the talent to compete with the best teams in the state. “I like our athleticism and our team speed,” Tom Bolden said. “I think we are overall just as fast as we’ve ever been from a team standpoint.” Colerain has won the league outright for three consecutive years. The first two weeks this fall – against St. Xavier and Elder – should provide a barometer for this team. “Our first two games are the toughest beginning to any season we have had here at Colerain,” Bolden said.

Lakota West Division: I Coach: Larry Cox (77-65) Last year: 6-4 (5-2) Last league title: None Players to watch: Senior LB Jordan Hicks (70 tackles, four sacks, two interceptions, two forced fumbles; rated the nation’s No. 2 player overall, according to ESPNU); senior TE Alex Smith (375 yards, four touchdowns and orally committed to UC); senior QB John Peters (765 yards passing, 10 touchdowns); senior DB Brandon Neal (one interception); senior OL Kevin Schloemer (orally committed to UC); senior TB Jordan Thompson; senior MLB Konnor Blevins; junior OL Ryan Kelly; senior DB Mark Fowler.

Outlook: The Firebirds haven’t been to the postseason since 2006 but have a significant opportunity this fall because of their talent. With 33 seniors, there is plenty of leadership. This team has excellent speed, and the defense is solid. Peters has a better grasp of the quarterback position going into this season, and the expectations are high for this group.

Enquirer file/Joseph Fuqua II

Princeton quarterback Spencer Ware is bound for LSU.

Games to watch m Matchup: Colerain vs. St. Xavier at Nippert Stadium, Aug. 28 Notes: This game is always special and will be one area fans will circle on the calendar again this year as part of the Skyline Chili Crosstown Showdown. The talent on the field and on the sidelines is second to none. These two teams have played in the regular season or playoffs for five consecutive years. Although Colerain won the 2008 opener, St. X holds a 3-2 advantage. m Matchup: Colerain at Elder, Sept. 6 Notes: Demand for tickets should be very strong, as this is the first time the Cardinals will play a varsity football game at Elder. This game is part of a home-and-home series between the West Side powerhouses.

This game is scheduled to be nationally televised on ESPN. m Matchup: Princeton at Lakota West, Oct. 16 Notes: This game could have playoff implications. There will be a tremendous amount of talent on the field. Princeton quarterback Spencer Ware (LSU commit) and Lakota West linebacker Jordan Hicks (considering Ohio State, Texas, USC and others) are definite players to watch in this game. The Vikings defeated the Firebirds 28-21 at Princeton last season as Ware threw a touchdown pass with 14 seconds left.

Princeton

Division: I Coach: Bill Leach (16-15) Last year: 5-5 (4-3) Last league title: 2003 (co-champion) Players to watch: Senior QB Spencer Ware (threw for 1,938 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for 741 yards and 15 touchdowns); senior RB Tevin Redmon (138 yards and one touchdown); senior DL Rakeem Chandler (4½ sacks); senior strong safety Josh West (four interceptions); senior OT A.J. Hood (6-6, 270); junior WR Jay McCants (five receptions); senior OT Kyle Budde; senior WR Bryan Shelby.

Other key players: Senior OL Jonas Batte (6-5, 315); senior OL Jared Ballew (6-4, 275); senior DB Garyn Pride; senior DB Ryan Sawyer.

Outlook: Despite the graduation of four Division I college signees, the ViMiddletown kings still have plenty of talent. Ware is the catalyst for the offense and is one Division: I of the most highly rated players in the Coach: Jason Krause (68-62) country. Ware committed to LSU after Last year: 6-4 (5-2) Last league title: 1990 (co-champi- also receiving offers from Michigan, UC, Ohio State and Oregon. Ware also on) will play free safety or strong safety.

Players to watch: Senior QB Caleb Watkins (2,089 yards passing and 22 “We can’t afford not to have him out touchdowns); senior RB Antonio Banks there,” Leach said. The Vikings’ schedule is a bit more favorable early in the (944 yards and 12 touchdowns); senior WR Nick McKnight (34 receptions season; October starts with a game at for 681 yards and seven touchdowns); Colerain. Ware should keep the Vikings senior OLB Jerry Gates (three intercep- in most games down the stretch. tions, one touchdown); senior DE Sam Sycamore Current (one sack); senior ILB Aaron Division: I Lewis (3.5 sacks, interception); senior Coach: Scott Dattilo (44-20) CB Eric Redding; RB/WR/FS Kevin Last year: 8-2 (5-2) Watts (21 rushes for 142 yards and Last league title: None three touchdowns); senior K Jeremiah Players to watch: Senior DE Tim Burg.

Andrews (offer from Air Force); senior Other key players: Sophomore WR ILB Paul Yanow (interception, fumble Zach Edwards; junior LB Kyle Schwarber (2½ sacks, two fumble recoveries). recovery); senior OLB Tyler Dowdall.

Other key players: Junior DB Darius Outlook: The Middies will have plenHillary; senior TE Austin Baas; senior ty of speed and depth this season.

Watkins (committed to Bowling Green) OL Jordan Kolb; senior LB/DE Alex Segal; senior RB DeCarlos Smith. and Banks (Indiana) have experience Outlook: The majority of the front in significant games. Watkins has the ability to run the ball and has grown to seven on defense returns for the Aviators, who allowed just 14 points per about 6 feet 4; Banks has increased his lateral speed and trimmed his body game last season – second in the GMC. The offense is inexperienced and fat. The defense must be able to stop will take a while to get an identity. Sycthe run, and there are several players with good speed on the line and in the amore lost some star power to gradualinebacker corps. McKnight, Gates and tion, but Dattilo thinks this group will Watts are Division I college prospects. find its own success.

Mason Division: I Coach: David Sedmak (126-63) Last year: 2-8 (1-6) Last league title: 2006 (Fort Ancient Valley Conference Buckeye) Players to watch: Senior CB/WR Nick Wehby; junior RB David Fulcher; senior CB Nick Pasquale; senior DE Ethan Brown; senior LB Andy Porter; junior WR Ethan King.

Other key players: Senior OL Patrick Egan; junior OL/LB Erich Myers; senior DL Maison Kana; senior LB Kyle Searer; senior S Rhett Durbin; senior safety DeVonte Walker.

Outlook: The Comets elevated their workouts in the offseason and are committed to improving. Mason has starters returning on defense, so experience should be key. Size is a concern, but the defense has some quickness. This is a hungry group that is looking to excel. The quarterback will be senior Alex Farren or junior Seth Schwartz. Wehby, Fulcher and Myers are receiving college attention.

Lakota East Division: I Coach: Greg Bailie (142-121) Last year: 3-7 (2-5) Last league title: 2004 (co-champion) Players to watch: Senior TE Cory Keebler (seven receptions for 50 yards); senior RB Pedro Powell (10 starts last season); senior LB Casey O’Shea (third season); senior CB Nate Billisits; senior OL Matt Luers; senior DL Brogan Murphy.

Other key players: Senior DL Grant Keller; junior WR Cameron Lee (11 receptions, three touchdowns); senior WR Rob Willging (31 receptions).

Outlook: Six starters return on each side of the ball. Bailie likes the enthusiasm of this group, but the team isn’t looking too far ahead. “We really and truly take things one day at a time,” Bailie said. Keebler, who is 6-6 and 235 pounds, has interest from some Division I college programs. The offensive line graduated only two players.

The Thunderhawks must prevent the big play on defense and limit turnovers.

Fairfield

Division: I Coach: Aaron Fitzstephens (first Division: I Division: I season) Coach: Kurry Commins (55-30) Coach: Jim Place (231-153-2) Last year: 1-9 (1-6) Last year: 3-7 (1-6) Last year: 7-3 (5-2) Last league title: 2005 (co-chamLast league title: 1998 (Queen City pion) Last league title: 1997 Players to watch: Senior DT Darius Conference) Players to watch: Senior SS Arryn Players to watch: Senior QB Steve Gilbert (81⁄2 sacks, fumble recovery); Chenault (committed to UC); senior ILB senior QB Drew Townsend (1,110 yards Gebing (467 yards passing and eight Tyler Snell; senior DL Russell Turner; jutouchdowns and 412 yards rushing passing); junior RB Devin Jarrett (669 nior ILB Marquise Vann (benched 350 and four touchdowns); junior LB Ben yards, six touchdowns); junior WR pounds this summer); senior WR C.J. Russell (sack, two fumble recoveries); Brian Cleckley (16 receptions for 270 Talley (40 receptions); senior TE Nick yards, two touchdowns); senior LB Ger- senior WR Corie Cartmell; senior OL Kaminsky (6-4, 215 pounds); senior TB Jeremy Ernst; senior DL Brian Johnson; Rayshawn Walton. ald Davis (two sacks); junior RB Chris senior WR Robert Klotz (183 yards, Tarrant (576 yards, six touchdowns); Other key players: Senior CB Josh touchdown); senior DL Ryan Quinn; se- Scott; senior QB Justin McCray; junior junior WR Kenny Lewis (19 receptions nior LB Jake Hildreth; junior WR Tommy QB Jordan Ammon; sophomore TB Tyfor 466 yards, three touchdowns).

Other key players: Junior C Brandon Konkoly; senior TE Ben Schmidt. ler White.

Other key players: Senior DB Alex Rader; junior G Jaden Fields; senior LB Outlook: Fitzstephens, a former asAdams; senior DB Jordan Roell; junior Jared Faulkner; junior CB Chaz Veal; sistant coach under Scott Dattilo and LB Thomas Ruess. senior CB Todd Dockery; senior safety Tom Grippa, said he likes the team’s Outlook: Commins begins his fourth attitude heading into the season. There DeMarcus Dickerson; senior K Chelub year at Oak Hills and there is optimism were 109 players in grades 10 through Davenport. for the direction of the program. “I Outlook: Hamilton has high expec12 who showed up for offseason worktations after narrowly missing the play- think we have a great group of kids; outs. “The kids have done the first step they are committed to the team goals offs last season. But the schedule is of buying in,” said Fitzstephens, who very tough; three of the first five games and understand the expectations,” was the offensive line coach at SycaCommins said. Gebing had a strong are against Moeller, Lakota West and more the past three years. Defense is offseason, and the defense has a Colerain. Still, coaches around the the strength of this team. Look for the strong nucleus. This is a close-knit league think Hamilton could make a Indians to re-commit to the running group that returns a good deal of expe- game. Chenault is a playmaker who significant impact. Gilbert has six college scholarship offers, and Davis is a rience. “Last year was a huge disapcould see time at receiver. “He is a pointment,” Commins said. “… There is great kid and a leader,” Fitzstephens major-college prospect, according to Place. Jarrett is up to 210 pounds after a definite sense of urgency to get this said. going. That’s what we expect.” an effective sophomore season.

— Mike Dyer

Hamilton

Oak Hills

C14 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009

THE ENQUIRER

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

ONE UP, ONE DOWN Anderson, Harrison swap divisions

By Mark Schmetzer Enquirer contributor

With their performance in two years at Division II, the Anderson Redskins did Harrison no favors.

While the Wildcats were falling short of the Division I playoffs the last two seasons, Anderson won the Division II state championship in 2007 and lost in the title game last year.

This year’s biennial reshuffling of the Ohio High School Athletic Association’s six divisions has shipped the Redskins back to Division I and dropped Harrison to Division II. Fourth-year Wildcats coach Neal Kasner understands the anticipation growing among Harrison fans.

“Around me, there hasn’t been a whole lot of conversation about it, but people are excited,” said Kasner, who led Harrison to the Division II, Region 8 final in 2006, his first season as the Wildcats’ coach. “I’m much more evenkeeled about it.”

The OHSAA splits its footballplaying schools into statewide divisions, each made up of 118-121 schools and broken up into four regions. The number of ninththrough 11th-grade boys in a school’s student body determines each school’s division. The latest reshuffling was based on October 2008 enrollment figures and approved by the OHSAA in May. Anderson made four consecutive Division I playoff appearances from 2000 through 2003 before moving to Division II in 2007.

“The real problem is we schedule a couple of years in advance,” Redskins coach Jeff Giesting said.

“What happens is we get to Division I, but we have more of a Division II schedule, so you don’t have as much of a chance to get (Harbin computer) points. We scheduled Taft when they were Division II, and they’ve dropped down to Division IV. Columbus DeSales dropped from Division II to Division III.” Teams qualify for the playoffs based on points generated through the Harbin system. Wins over higher-division teams are

The Enquirer/Amie Dworecki

Cornerback Thomas Mullens is a key defender for Harrison.

By the numbers The FAVC Buckeye Division boys’ enrollment breakdown: School Boys Div. Anderson 522 I Glen Este 593 I Harrison 514 II Loveland 550 I Milford 706 I Winton Woods 477 II worth more than wins over lowerdivision teams.

Anderson would have qualified for the Division I playoffs each of the past two seasons.

“We figure we’re going to have to win eight or nine games just to get into the playoffs,” Giesting said. “Our margin for error is less.”

Harrison, which spent the first three years of the millennium in Division I and the next four in Division II before jumping back up two years ago, would have qualified in Division II each of the last two seasons.

“We were 7-3 in 2006 and made the playoffs,” Kasner said.

“The next year, we were 7-3 again and we didn’t make the playoffs.

I’m not saying people were disappointed, but the same record didn’t create the same excitement. We had an awfully similar season. We were just placed in a different division.

“Being in Division II or Division I doesn’t change the 10 weeks of the (regular) season.”

The Enquirer/Michael E. Keating

Brandon Bornhauser, who takes over for Daniel Rod at quarterback for Anderson, is surrounded by veteran talent.

The Enquirer/Leigh Taylor

Quarterback Kyle Cook, a first-team Enquirer all-star last season, also is a top-notch baseball player and a standout student who is being recruited by the likes of Columbia and Lehigh.

LITTLE MIAMI LOOKS TO COOK Senior QB led FAVC in passing last season where he wants to go with the football. He’s completing a high percentage of his passes and has a Kyle Cook is a quick study – good touchdown-to-interception and he doesn’t need his 29 score ratio (21-8 last season). (out of a possible 36) on the ACT “He works extremely hard at beto prove it. ing a good quarterback and a good Just look at the improvement football player.” the Little Miami quarterback made Cook, an Enquirer Divisions IIbetween his sophomore and junior VI first-team all-star last season, years. After generating an 89.2 has played quarterback from the quarterback rating that ranked day he first laced on shoulder pads 16th in the Fort Ancient Valley in youth football. He also yearns to Conference in 2007, Cook put toplay safety, but Shafer won’t even gether a conference-best 174.3 rat- give him a sniff of the defensive ing while leading the FAVC with side of the ball.

2,303 passing yards for the “He won’t even let me have a Panthers last season. defensive position in practice,” He credited much of his develCook complained good-naturedly. opment to working with coach The 6-foot-3, 185-pound Cook, Mike Shafer. who was the FAVC baseball co-ath“In my sophomore year, I really lete of the year last spring, would struggled with knowing where the like to continue playing both ball was going and doing my prosports in college, but he’s almost gressions in my reads,” Cook said. resigned to having to settle for a “Coach Shafer helped me a lot. It focus on football. got to the point last season where I Most of the recruiting interest is knew before the snap what the de- coming from smaller programs fense was doing and where the ball such as Columbia, Lehigh and Duwas going.” quesne, which also would stimuCook led Little Miami to a 7-3 late Cook academically. Majors in record (3-2 FAVC Cardinal Diviwhich he’s interested include civil sion), the Panthers’ first full seaengineering, perhaps with an emson at or above .500 since the 2004 phasis on architecture, and polititeam finished 5-5. That stretch incal science. cluded back-to-back 1-9 seasons Right now, Cook’s looking forbefore Little Miami went 4-6 two ward to building on last season. years ago.

“We’ve had two 7-on-7 camps so “He had some growing pains as far, and I don’t want to brag on the a sophomore, and that experience offense, but we’ve looked really helped him a lot,” Shafer said. “He good,” he said. “We’re looking forlearned a lot from that as far as ward to having the best time in our reading defenses and knowing senior year.”

By Mark Schmetzer Enquirer contributor

The Enquirer/Leigh Taylor

Did you know?

If Kyle Cook (above) leads the FAVC in passing again this season, he’ll be the second quarterback in the last four years to do it in back-toback seasons – and both will have come from the Cardinal Division.

Turpin’s Ryan Martin led the conference with 1,727 yards in 2006 and threw for 1,835 yards in 2007 to edge Walnut Hills quarterback Ben Heiser by 15 yards.

GREAT SCOTT! NORWOOD BACK BULKS UP FAVC’s top rusher works to get bigger, faster, stronger

By Mark Schmetzer Enquirer contributor

The Enquirer/Malinda Hartong

Norwood senior running back Jeremy Scott, who led the FAVC in rushing last season, said he worked with a personal trainer in the offseason to bulk up and speed up.

Jeremy Scott doesn’t expect to carry a heavier workload for the Norwood offense this season, but if he has to, he’s ready.

The Indians’ senior running back, who led the entire Fort Ancient Valley Conference in rushing last season, has added about 40 pounds to the 180 he was listed at last season on the FAVC Web site. At 215-220 pounds, he could be even more difficult to bring down in 2009 than he was in 2008, when he rushed for 1,393 yards and scored 23 touchdowns while helping Norwood go 7-3.

“He’s gotten a lot stronger,” Norwood coach Steve Metz said.

“The thing that’s tremendous is his yards-after-contact are extremely high. He led the team in (weightlifting) attendance during the offseason. He loves carrying the ball, and we like to feed him.”

The 5-foot-11 Scott insists that bulking up won’t slow him down.

“I started working with a personal trainer back in March, and my (40-yard dash) time’s down to 4.54 (seconds),” he said. That’s compared to the 4.69 he ran last year, he said.

Scott started playing football in the fifth grade, but he was a tight end and linebacker before being moved to running back in the sev-

Chasing Edwards Jeremy Scott already has had an outstanding Norwood career, but he’s got some rushing to do to catch up to one of the greatest high school running backs in Greater Cincinnati high school football history.

Marc Edwards gained 6,001 yards and scored 73 touchdowns for the Indians, including 1,721 yards and 26 touchdowns on his way to being named Ohio’s Mr. Football by the Associated Press as a senior in 1992. Edwards went on to play at Notre Dame and in the NFL.

enth grade. That gave him the chance to emulate his idol, former Cincinnati Bengals running back Corey Dillon, whose physical style of carrying the ball was emphasized by his neck-snapping stiffarms.

“That’s what I liked,” Scott said.

“I try to do my style just like Corey Dillon did his.”

The approach started paying off two years ago, when Scott gained 1,197 yards and scored 18 touch-

downs as a sophomore. Metz’s confidence in Scott increased last season, and so did the running back’s workload – to an FAVChigh 229 carries.

“The thing he’s worked really hard at getting better at is controlling the ball,” said Metz, who’s entering his fifth season as Norwood’s coach. “As a lot of young kids do, he had a tendency to forget that the ball is the most important thing in the game. A fumble can be devastating. He’s worked really hard at catching the ball and ball security, as well as seeing the holes and hitting them hard.”

Even though Norwood must replace graduated quarterback Neil TenBrink, Scott believes the Indians have enough size on the offensive line and talent at receiver to cause concern for opposing defenses.

“We have more athletes on offense than we had last year,” said Scott, who has generated recruiting interest from several MidAmerican Conference programs, particularly Toledo. “We didn’t rebuild. We reloaded.

“We believe we can go undefeated. We thought we should have won state last year with the talent we had, and we’ve worked really hard in the weight room.

This is going to be a special year.”

THE ENQUIRER

FORT ANCIENT VALLEY CONFERENCE | SCARLET (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Edgewood Division: II Coach: Steve Channell (145-63) Last year: 8-3 (5-0) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Junior WB/CB Tony Davis; senior LB Billy French; senior FB/FS Dean Estes; senior OL/DL Tyler Breh.

Other key players: Senior OL/DL Taylor Miller; senior QB Drew Bostic.

Outlook: The Cougars are 15-0 in three Scarlet Division seasons and are favored to make it four titles in four years.

Miller was a Scarlet first-team all-star last season and is one of 14 returning starters. “I think what I like most is our overall chemistry,” Channell said. “I’m pretty satisfied across the board with our players’ offseason and their effort currently and their work habits.” Edgewood will compete on a new FieldTurf playing surface at Kumler Field.

Northwest Division: II Coach: Jeff Neal (6-24)

Last year: 2-8 (2-3) Last league title: 1990 Players to watch: Senior OLB/WR Preston Brown; senior NG Kirby Famble; senior DE Landis Coulter; senior WR/DB Ishmael Allen; senior OL Anthony Davis.

Other key players: Senior QB/FS Cameron Bryant; senior TB Nick Dardy; senior OF Josh Hoying; senior LB Carl Huber; junior DE Ty Cunningham.

Outlook: Neal welcomed 16 starters back from last season’s team, led by Brown, a University of Cincinnati recruit. He and Famble were Scarlet first-team all-stars last season, and Coulter was a second-team pick.

“The 2009 Knights will lean on the seniors for a successful season,” Neal said. “Our overall team speed, quickness and toughness will be key ingredients.”

Norwood Division: III Coach: Steve Metz (20-20) Last year: 7-3 (3-2) Last league title: 1991 Players to watch: Senior RB Jeremy Scott; senior WR/DB Lee Young; senior WR/DB John Reynolds; senior OL/DL Andy

Wilmes; senior OL/DL Nick Jones.

Other key players: QB Chett Williams; senior OL/DL Tyler West; senior RB/LB Coty Zingale; senior RB Matt Wallace.

Outlook: Eight returning starters on offense and six more on defense have the Indians confident they can build on last season’s 7-3 record. The transfer from Moeller of running back Matt Wallace brightens the outlook. “I feel this is the most talented team I have had at Norwood,” Metz said. “The key to our season will be getting off to a fast start. If we can gain some momentum, like last year, I truly feel the sky is the limit.”

Talawanda Division: II Coach: Mike Wright (19-21) Last year: 4-6 (2-3) Last league title: 2001 Players to watch: Senior OL Matt Sherman; junior LB Michael Krall; junior WR Marshall Newman.

Other key players: Senior TE/OLB Jake Adelsperger; senior WR/DB/K Michael Jarvi.

Outlook: Four returning starters on offense and five on defense left Wright with a number

of holes to fill, but the cupboard isn’t completely empty. Sherman, a Scarlet first-team all-star last season, returns for his third season as a starter. Krall and Newman earned second-team honors. “We’ve had a very good offseason, and our hope is we’ll have guys to fill in,” Wright said.

“Our four nonleague games will make us game-ready very quick.”

Ross Division: II Coach: Brian Butts (14-16) Last year: 2-8 (1-4) Last league title: 2001 Player to watch: Senior QB Erik Geiser; senior WR/CB Casey Vatter; junior LB Colten Phelps; senior TB Zach Wilson; sophomore WR/FS Cole Stalker.

Other key players: Senior OG Jon Stewart; senior OG Jake Stewart; junior WR Logan Hannon; senior WR Danny Lane; senior OT Cameron Samford; senior LB Sean Lang; senior CB Lake Clevenger; senior DL Jarrett Hodge; senior DL Clayton Gross; senior OLB Drew Bosse.

Outlook: The Rams return 85 percent of their offense from last season, led by Geiser, who has thrown for more than 3,000

FORT ANCIENT VALLEY CONFERENCE | BUCKEYE (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

on here is an All-American,” Taylor said.

Loveland

Winton Woods Division: II Coach: Troy Everhart (67-39) Last year: 11-2 (5-0) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior RB Jeremiah Goins; senior QB Dominique Brown; senior S Avery Cunningham.

Other key players: Senior LB David Hampton; senior WR/DB Juan Glover.

Outlook: Goins and Brown both rushed for more than a thousand yards last season and lead a deep Warriors offense.

“We have quality at all five skill positions and depth,” Everhart said. “Finally, after nine years, we have viable backups.” Brown was the Buckeye Division’s coplayer of the year last season.

Anderson Division: I Coach: Jeff Giesting (25-5) Last year: 12-3 (4-1) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Senior OL Andrew Norwell, senior OL Greg Mancz; senior RB Kyle Slater; senior TE Kevin Becker; senior QB Brandon Bornhauser; senior LB Jake Lackner.

Other key players: Senior DL Ty Knabb; senior DB Kevin Cripe; senior DL Michael James; junior LB Tony Martini.

Community Press/Tony Meale

A fearsome fivesome of seniors leads defending league champion Winton Woods this season: (from left) Brad Thompson, Jeremiah Goins, Dominique Brown, Avery Cunningham and Bryon McCorkle.

Outlook: The Redskins seem well-fortified for their jump back up to Division I. Norwell, an allstate performer, anchors the offensive line and leads a solid running game, which should give Bornhauser room to grow into the job as Daniel Rod’s replacement at quarterback.

“We have a good, experienced group of seniors who are used to winning,” Giesting said.

“Moving up to Division I is a tremendous challenge and a chance for our players to compete against the best in Ohio.

We should have a good offensive line and running game. Our quickness on defense is a strength.”

Glen Este Division: I Coach: Zak Taylor (98-79) Last year: 5-5 (4-2) Last league title: 2006 Players to watch: Senior OLB/TE Dan Shepherd; junior ILB/FB Colin Pitman; junior QB Shane Sechman; junior RB/DB Austin Duncanson; junior WR/ DB Anthony Clark.

Other key players: Junior DB Cory Goedde, senior DB/RB Jake Vincent Outlook: The Trojans returns four starters on offense and five on defense. Taylor loves the work ethic. “Just a good hardworking bunch of kids…nobody

Division: I Coach: Andrew Marlatt (13-17) Last year: 4-6 (0-5) Last league title: None Players to watch: Senior QB/ DB Adam Engel; senior WR/DB Isaac Spence; senior TE/LB Andrew Newbold; senior OL/DL Dustin Brown; junior WR/DB Zach Elias.

Other key players: Senior OL Bubba Williams; senior OL/DL Brandon Burks; senior OL Kyle Chezem; junior OL/DL Mason Scheeler; senior FB/DL Randy Mullins; junior WR/DB Wesley Kyles.

Outlook: The Tigers enjoyed their first winning season in at least the last five years, and they have eight returning offensive starters, leaving Marlatt looking forward to building on that experience. The returning starters include Engel, a Buckeye Division second-team allstar last season, and an all-senior offensive line. “We have a solid defensive line and linebackers,” Marlatt said.

Kings Division: II Coach: Andy Olds (91-24) Last year: 8-4 (5-0) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Junior QB Jonny Brewster; junior WR Blake Bates; senior MLB Billy Bruns; senior TE/DE Trey Knecht; senior DT Jake Gibson.

Other key players: Sophomore RB Jamire Westbrook; junior RB Austin Phipps; junior OL Travis Huddleston; senior DE Matt Koerbel; senior DB Drew Esler; sophomore DB Zach Hildebrand.

Outlook: The Knights lost 27 seniors from last season, and 21 of them were starters. Brewster is Kings’ only returning starter. This year’s roster is the largest since Olds took over in 1998, but the eight-member senior class is the smallest. A rugged early schedule will force the Knights to mature quickly.

Turpin Division: II Coach: Rob Stoll (53-25) Last year: 9-2 (4-1) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Senior RB Wayne Dunham; senior FB Jeff Groene; senior MLB Matt Kelly;

was the Scarlet’s stingiest in yards and points last year.

Little Miami Division: II Coach: Mike Shafer (11-9) Last year: 7-3 (3-2) Last league title: 1992 Player to watch: Senior QB Kyle Cook; senior RB Lance Fanthorp; senior OL/ILB Russell Bedsole; senior OL/ILB Bud Enquirer file Bird; senior OL/DL Adam Grindstaff.

Quarterback Jonny Brewster Other key players: Senior is the only returning startWR/DB Chance VonHolle; seer for defending league nior WR/CB Michael Anderson; champion Kings. senior OL/DL Brad Helton; sejunior QB Eric Martin; senior DB nior TE/NG Alex Bookout.

Zach Page.

Outlook: Cook leads six Other key players: Junior WR starters returning to the offense, Shade Whitfield; junior WR Mike but the defense lost eight. “Our Millikin; senior OLB Ken Mason; offense will have to continue to senior DL Nate Lieberman; sebuild off some of the success it nior DB John Morgan Correll. had last year,” Shafer said. “It Outlook: The Spartans is vital that some of our less should have a solid running experienced players step up on game with Dunham and Groene, defense.” Fanthorp set school both Cardinal first-team all-stars records last season with 927 last season. Dunham is the divi- receiving yards and 10 touchsion’s top returning rusher after downs. He might be even more gaining 1,221 yards last season, productive with the addition of leading the division’s most pro- wide receiver Calvin Jones, a lific running attack. Martin retransfer from Withrow. turns for his second season of running the offense after throwing for 1,267 yards and earning Wilmington second-team all-division honors Division: II last year. Kelly, another secondCoach: Robin Vida (24-27) team pick, leads a defense that Last year: 4-6 (2-3)

Games to watch m Matchup: Mount Healthy at Roger Bacon, Aug. 28 Notes: Former Hamilton defensive coordinator Arvie Crouch makes his head coaching debut as Mount Healthy’s mentor in a nonconference matchup. The Spartans squeezed out a 21-20 win on an Owls missed extra point at Mount Healthy in last season’s opener. m Matchup: Edgewood at East Central, Sept. 4 Notes: East Central edged Edgewood 23-20 in overtime on the Cougars’ home field last season. That should add some spice to this nonconference, interstate pairing. m Matchup: Edgewood at Northwest, Oct. 2 Notes: The Knights have been down in recent years, but returning experience has them optimistic. They also should be motivated by the 49-7 smackdown handed to them by the Cougars at Edgewood last season.

yards over the past two years.

Eight starters return on that side of the ball, but only three are back on defense, though Phelps is back for his third season as a starter. Butts isn’t afraid to stick young guys in there. Stalker was a two-way starter and led Ross is receiving last season as a freshman.

Mount Healthy Division: II Coach: Arvie Crouch (first season) Last year: 4-6 (2-3) Last league title: 2005 Players to watch: Senior

Division: II Coach: Neal Kasner (77-34) Last year: 5-5 (1-4) Last league title: 2006

Last league title: 1983 Players to watch: Senior RB Quinten Rollins; senior TE/LB Malcolm Heard; senior RB/LB Dalton Morrel; senior QB/DB Brandon Arehart; senior OL/DL Evan Webb.

Other key players: Senior WR/DB Kyle Blakeman; senior WR/LB Nyles Williams; senior OL/DL Dillan Day; junior OL/DL Chris Cowman.

Outlook: Arehart, Blakeman and Rollins all were named Cardinal first-team all-stars last season, while Morrel and Williams were second-team picks.

“We have some quality skill-position players, and our overall team speed should be good,” Vida said. “We will need to improve our line play to realize our potential. We always expect to field a competitive team. How solid our ballclub becomes will depend on how our leadership develops.”

Walnut Hills Division: II Coach: George Kontsis (24-36) Last year: 2-8 (0-5) Last league title: None Player to watch: Junior QB Dez Stewart; senior ILB Mike Brown; sophomore DB/RB Kenny Davis; junior DB/WR Corbin Noschang; junior WR/OLB Miles Crawley.

QB/DB Devin Brown; senior OL/ DE Terrell Smith.

Other key players: Junior QB/DB Denzel Larkin; junior RB/DB Tracey Barnes; senior WR/LB Allen Carter.

Outlook: The Owls haven’t finished above .500 in any of their first three seasons in the FAVC, and they now turn to Crouch, the former Hamilton defensive coordinator. “I like their willingness to learn and work harder to get better,” said Crouch, who’s in his first season as a head coach. Brown was named a Scarlet Division second-team all-star last season.

— Mark Schmetzer

Games to watch m Matchup: Anderson at Columbus St. Francis De Sales, Sept. 18 Notes: The Redskins split two games against the Division II, Region 7 champions last season, losing convincingly at home during the regular season and squeezing out a 14-10 win in the state semifinals. m Matchup: Winton Woods at Anderson, Oct. 2 Notes: The teams split two games last season, with the Warriors winning at home during the regular season and losing in the last minute to the Redskins in the Division II regional semifinals. A win over now-Division I Anderson not only would give Winton Woods some revenge and control of the Buckeye Division, it also would mean additional Harbin Rating computer points that could prove valuable. m Matchup: Glen Este at Winton Woods, Oct. 30 Notes: The Trojans still could be in the hunt for a Buckeye title, and getting the Warriors at home could give Glen Este an edge.

Players to watch: Senior FS Tyler Elrod; senior TB Brandon Fisher; senior CB Thomas Mullens.

Other key players: Senior OL Ben Kolb; senior LB C.J. Rivera.

Outlook: Kasner faces a rebuilding year in his fourth season with the Wildcats. Harrison has just four returning starters, one on offense. Fisher led Harrison with an average of 6.0 yards.

Milford Harrison

FORT ANCIENT VALLEY CONFERENCE | CARDINAL (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009 C15

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

Division: I Coach: Pat Fagan (7-13) Last year: 4-6 (0-5) Last league title: 1986 Players to watch: Senior FL/ DB junior QB/DB Shawn Taylor;

junior RB Nathan Termuhlen; senior OL/DL Andrew Bugajski; senior RB/LB Kenny Shields.

Other key players: Senior OL Alex Cummings; junior OL Alex Hord; junior Alex Beurket; junior TE Jackson Casto; senior DL Dylan Meek; senior LB Brandon Fulton.

Outlook: Milford’s numbers continue to increase, and Fagan believes the program is on the right track. “The kids are continuing to buy into what we’re doing more each year,” he said.

Taylor is Milford’s only returning Buckeye all-star from last year.

“Our offensive skill position groups are our most experienced,” Fagan said.

— Mark Schmetzer

Games to watch m Matchup: Harrison at Kings, Sept. 11 Notes: This starts a three-game stretch for the Knights in which they also play Loveland at home and at Winton Woods. Kings played this same stretch last season – and lost all three games by an average of 20.3 points. m Matchup: Turpin at Kings, Oct. 9 Notes: The Knights won both games against the Spartans last season, including a 27-24 victory in the first round of the Division II playoffs. Kings’ 41-10 regular-season win at Turpin was more decisive and frustrating for a Turpin defense that was more effective most of the time. m Matchup: Little Miami at Turpin, Oct. 16 Notes: The Panthers’ prolific offense against the Spartans’ solid defense is an interesting battle. Turpin’s defense kept Little Miami in check last season, opening the door for the Spartans to pull out a 21-16 win with a lastminute touchdown.

Other key players: Sophomore LB James Smith Jr.; senior RB/LB Ricky Foster; junior SS Roman Campolo.

Outlook: The Eagles have 15 more players on the roster than last year, which has helped improve their depth, especially at the skill positions. “We have very good overall team speed,” Kontsis said. Stewart steps in for Ben Heiser, an all-division first-team pick who threw for 1,828 yards last season.

Amelia Division: II Coach: Randy Hospelhorn (first season)

Last year: 4-6 (1-4) Last league title: None Players to watch: Senior LB Brandon Hall; senior LB Ricky Ennis; senior DL B.J. Wright; senior DL Tyler Stiles; senior DL Evan Stuck.

Other key players: Junior QB Tanner Owens; junior RB Scott Weaver; junior WR Zac Hultz.

Outlook: Hospelhorn moves up from assistant to replace Rob Kiefer as the Barons’ coach just in time for Amelia’s final FAVC season before moving to the Southern Buckeye Conference next year. The defense is experienced, but the offense lost three division all-stars.

— Mark Schmetzer

C16 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009

THE ENQUIRER

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

SOUTHERN BUCKEYE CONFERENCE | AMERICAN senior LB/RB Josh McGowan; junior CB/QB Kenny Thompson; junior DB/WR Jake Hacker.

New Richmond Other key players: Junior C/ DE Cody Tidwell; senior OT Pat Division: III Hudson.

Coach: Dan Scholz (13-7) Outlook: CNE returns allLast year: 7-3 (5-2) league linebacker David Last league title: 2001 Players to watch: Senior RB Brausch, who led the team with Andrew Nealan; senior NG Bran- 149 tackles, and coach Brausch says this year’s team is ahead don Branson; senior OL Brian of schedule in its development.

Gelter; senior WR Brian MazzaCNE returns nine players on ofro. fense and seven on defense, inOther key players: Junior SS/RB Garrett Myers; junior DL cluding Brausch and all-league linebacker McGowan. On ofTrent Turner; junior OLB Austin fense, the Rockets want to be a Warden; senior FS/QB Mike physical team that pounds the Skaggs. ball using the stack-I Outlook: Scholz said if the offense. They will run the ball team works hard, New Richmond has the potential to have 80-90 percent of the time, usgreat success behind six return- ing three running backs. ing starters on defense and five Bethel-Tate on offense, including Nealan (700 yards rushing) and MazzaDivision: III ro (450 yards receiving, five Coach: Clint Kirker (20-15) touchdowns). But New RichLast year: 5-5 (3-4) mond has gaps at key positions Last league title: 2000 after losing all-league quarterPlayers to watch: Senior back Tyler Williams, first-team OG/LB Tyler Calhoun; senior C/ offensive lineman Jake Dall, DT Paschal Lanigan; senior RB/ linebacker Bryan Martineck and DB Kameron Wilson. tailback Steve Gantzer.

Other key players: Senior QB/LB David Willenbrink; senior Western Brown OT/DT Cody Kirker.

Outlook: Coach Kirker is exDivision: II cited about the personnel reCoach: Evan Dreyer (first turning from last season and season) says the team has come togethLast year: 10-1 (7-0) er in knowing what is expected, Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior TE/ both offensively and defensiveLB Dane Boggs; junior QB Matt ly. The Tigers will rely heavily on their senior leadership.

Corcoran; junior RB/DB Brad Rhodes.

Goshen Other key players: Junior OL/DL Walker Davis; junior OL/ Division: III DL Jacob Bering; junior LB Matt Coach: Nick Inabnitt (32-16) Canter.

Last year: 4-6 (4-3) Outlook: After a 10-1 season, Last league title: 2007 the Broncos face a rebuilding Players to watch: Senior FB/ year. The team has a new MLB David Prewitt; senior G/DT coaching staff and a new sysNick Criddle; senior OT/DT tem. The Broncos graduated 19 Charles Murphy; senior LB Sam seniors, leaving little experience McAninch; senior DB Ryan at the skill positions. But Spence; senior LB Dillon BleDreyer, previously an assistant vins. at Colerain and Anderson, will Other key players: Senior K/ bring in his knowledge of the P/FB Tanner Schulte; senior TE/ triple-option scheme and try to DT Dustin Lacey; junior DE Ausimplement it. tin Arnold; junior HB/DB Jamie Ashcraft.

Clermont Outlook: Prewitt, McAninch and Blevins will anchor the deNortheastern fense and should be the Division: IV strength of the team. The WarCoach: Dave Brausch riors have switched from the (108-47) spread offense to the wing-T Last season: 3-7 (2-6) this year to try to cut down on Last league title: 1997 Players to watch: Junior LB/ turnovers.

— Marcus Boyd FB David Brausch (149 tackles); (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

The Enquirer/Michael E. Keating

Quarterback Alec Swartz enters his senior season at CHCA after throwing for 25 touchdowns a year ago.

CHCA USES THE SWARTZ TO REACH TOP OF LEAGUE

By Adam Baum abaum@enquirer.com

Alec Swartz has thrown 42 touchdown passes in his high school career, but in his team’s biggest game last season, he didn’t throw any.

The reason? He didn’t need to.

In both his sophomore and junior seasons at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, Swartz threw for more than 3,300 yards, but when CHCA needed to beat North College Hill to win the Miami Valley Conference title last season, Swartz was happy to watch as the Eagles rushed 39 times en route to a 27-14 victory and a conference championship.

“That game taught me that it’s about the team, not about me,” said Swartz. “I knew I had guys behind me to secure a victory whether I was throwing touchdowns or they were rushing touchdowns.

“I didn’t have to throw for a ton of yards or any touchdowns; I just wanted to win and win as a team.”

Coach Eric Taylor, then in his first season coaching CHCA, said

Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy

m Matchup: Clermont Northeastern at Batavia, Sept. 18 Notes: CNE gets a rematch from a double-overtime loss last season against Batavia. m Matchup: Western Brown at New Richmond, Oct. 23 Notes: This game could decide the league championship.

SOUTHERN BUCKEYE CONFERENCE | NATIONAL (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

early success will be the springboard to a productive season.

East Clinton

Batavia

Division: V Coach: Matt Hodge (14-17) Last year: 7-4 (6-1) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior OL/ DL Mike Perry; sophomore RB/ LB Austin Miller; senior FB/LB Mike Seitz; sophomore LB Matt Blackburn.

Other key players: Sophomore S Will Henderson; senior DT Ben Thompson; junior OL/DL Grant Houck.

Outlook: East Clinton has a revamped, young team after graduating 16 starters, including six all-league players. The offensive line boasts experience, but the quarterback position is unsettled.

Division: IV Coach: Ron Ogden (72-98) Last year: 2-8 (1-6) Last league title: 2003 Players to watch: Senior DT Jeff Elam; senior QB Mike Weiderhold; junior MLB/FB Jake Prindle; senior LB/RB Cody Geer.

Other key players: Junior OG Eric Numrich; sophomore OT Dave Pelphrey; senior OT/DT John Foster.

Outlook: The team will start one freshman, five sophomores and five juniors, and Ogden says the Bulldogs have worked hard in the offseason in the weight room. Ogden says Batavia’s prime objective is stopping the run.

Blanchester Division: IV Coach: Jake O’Rourke (first season) Last year: 4-6 (3-4) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Senior DL/ OL Aaron Hodge; senior FB/S Matt Younker; senior DT/TE Tyler Curry; senior WR/S Jarrett Long; senior DB Alex Panno; junior RB/OLB Coy Burroughs; junior QB Josh Runyon; junior OT/DT Dylan Perry.

Other key players: Sophomore RB/OLB Zack Baker; sophomore DB Tyler Barney; sophomore LB/FB Andy Lakes.

Outlook: The main thing O’Rourke will focus on is cutting down on turnovers. He thinks fundamental improvements and

Williamsburg Division: V Coaches: Trevor Foster, Scott Lefker (first season) Last year: 2-8 (1-6) Last league title: 2001 Players to watch: Senior TB Marcus Barber; senior QB Caleb Morgan; junior WR/RB Cody Wiedeman.

Other key players: Senior RB/WR Kyle Proffitt; junior DL/ OT Billy Hickey; senior LB/C Mike Ilg. Outlook: Both new coaches were on the staff at Williamsburg the last time the team won the league title and went to the playoffs, in 2001. The team returns 19 starters.

— Marcus Boyd

A look at the recognition earned by CHCA quarterback Alec Swartz as a junior last season: m Enquirer Divisions V-VI player of the year m Honorable mention all-state m First-team all-Southwest District m First-team all-Miami Valley Conference he admires the way Swartz handled himself that night.

“Alec didn’t complain one bit, he just took it for the team,” said Taylor.

As a sophomore two years ago, when he started only seven games because of injury, Swartz completed 98 passes for 1,349 yards with 20 touchdowns and three interceptions.

As a junior last season, Swartz was an honorable mention all-state selection and the Divisions V-VI Enquirer player of the year. He threw for 2,403 yards with 25 touchdowns

MIAMI VALLEY CONFERENCE (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Games to watch

High honors

Division: V Coach: Eric Taylor (18-4) Last year: 11-1 (7-0) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior QB Alec Swartz; senior WR Andrew Perkins; senior FB/LB Doyen Harris; senior OL/ LB Jake Schomaker; senior P John Lloyd; senior K Joe Reifenberg.

Outlook: Twelve starters return, six on offense and six on defense, led by Swartz, who was an all-state selection and the Divisions V-VI Enquirer player of the year. Swartz is ready to begin his third season as the starting quarterback. CHCA also should have solid special teams, behind all-state punter Lloyd and all-state kicker Reifenberg. The Eagles are inexperienced on the interior lines, however.

North College Hill Division: IV Coach: Bruce Baarendse (124-109) Last year: 7-4 (5-1) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Senior LB/RB Lucien Kidd; senior LB/RB Angelo Pruitt; junior QB/LB Dakota Dartis; senior WR/ DB Dameon Garrett; senior WR/DB Stefone Grace; junior WR/DE Vincent Edwards; junior WR/DE Chaz Chichester.

Outlook: With 12 starters returning, North College Hill will look to get back on top in the MVC after going 5-1 and finishing second to CHCA. As a sophomore last season, Dartis threw for 875 yards and 10 touchdowns and also rushed for 575 yards. With a steady set of running backs and wideouts, Baarendse thinks his team will be more balanced on offense this season. Garrett is the top receiver returning. On defense, Kidd, who led the team in tackles the last two seasons, is on pace to become the school’s all-time leading tackler.

He’ll team with Pruitt in support of a line led by Edwards, who was second on the team in tackles last year as a sophomore. Chichester led the team in sacks last season with 12.

Lockland Division: VI Coach: Ben Hubbard (67-46-4) Last year: 7-4 (5-2) Players to watch: Senior QB/DB James Pugh; junior RB/S Devontay Scott; senior FB/LB Dashawn Davis.

Other key players: Senior WR Frankie Young; junior OL James Tripp; junior

S Tariq Sanders; junior OLB Jordan Gates; junior LB Yahavee Harris; senior LB Dakota Somma.

Outlook: Lockland lacks size and numbers but has good speed and experienced skill players as it tries to make the playoffs for the third year in a row.

The Panthers, seeking a fifth consecutive winning season, will be led by Pugh and Scott. Last season, Pugh rushed for 812 yards and Scott ran for 900. Davis contributed 400 yards on the ground.

Cincinnati Country Day Division: VI Coach: Tim Dunn (173-64) Last year: 5-5 (3-3) Last league title: 2001 Players to watch: Senior RB/DB Max Dietz; senior RB/DB Lawrence Ervin; junior RB/LB Wyatt Tiffany; senior OL/DL Matt Lesser; senior OL/DL Clint Thomas.

Outlook: CCD will rely on its speed and athleticism at the skill positions.

Dietz rushed 153 times for 1,163 yards with 21 touchdowns last season and also had 627 receiving yards. Ervin scored six offensive touchdowns and had 90 tackles and two interceptions on defense. The areas that might hinder CCD’s success are size and depth, as there are only five seniors on the roster.

Summit Country Day Division: V Coach: Ken Minor (170-129-1) Last year: 4-6 (1-5) Players to watch: Senior WR/DB Bradley Evans; senior QB/DB Rob Selker; senior OL/DL Andrew Olding; junior LB Ben McBride; junior TE/DL Devante Hunter; senior WR/DB David Pool.

Outlook: Summit will be fast, and Minor says his team’s hard work and positive attitude will yield success. Evans plays wide receiver, running back and defensive back. Hunter, at 6 feet 2, 200 pounds, could be an impact player at tight end and fullback, as well as on the defensive line.

as CHCA compiled an 11-1 record.

“Since last season I have really tried to concentrate on my arm strength and making every ball catchable,” said Swartz. “I have some really good receivers this year, and I want to make their job as easy as possible.”

Taylor has noticed his quarterback’s hard work already.

“I think he’s been a lot better distributing the ball and not having a favorite receiver,” said Taylor. “He’s learned how to read a defense and make the correct decisions.”

Swartz also is pondering some other choices, such as where he will attend college. Swartz, who wants to major in business management or engineering, said his top school right now is The Citadel in Charleston, S.C. “I like their coaching staff and commitment to excellence,” said Swartz. “The academic opportunities are great, and the discipline required at a military school will help me continue to develop my leadership skills.”

Games to watch m Matchup: North College Hill at Madeira, Sept. 11 Notes: Last season, Madeira came back from a 13-0 halftime deficit to upset NCH 16-13. NCH out-rushed and outpassed Madeira but lost two turnovers and allowed Madeira to return a punt for a TD. The Trojans finished second in the MVC, so don’t think they don’t have this game marked. m Matchup: CHCA at Mariemont, Sept. 11 Notes: The last time CHCA lost a regular-season game to a nonconference opponent was two years ago – against Mariemont, 56-35. And last season, CHCA struggled against a Mariemont team that finished 2-8. The Eagles can’t afford to let this game get away from them. m Matchup: CHCA at North College Hill, Sept. 25 Notes: Last year’s No. 1 vs.

No. 2 matchup decided the winner in the Miami Valley Conference, and this year should bring more of the same. CHCA, the reigning league champ, will march its high-powered offense into NCH against a defense with seven returning starters. more than 200 pounds, and Clark will compete in a conference that produced four playoff teams last season. On defense, Smoot is coming off a 131-tackle season that has garnered him some college notice. Smith registered 48 tackles and three sacks last season.

New Miami

Division: VI Coach: Peter Parker (first season) Last year: 7-4 (4-3) Last league title: 1988 Players to watch: Senior RB/LB Robbie Martin; senior RB/LB Jake Davis; Clark Montessori junior WR/DL Demonta Perry; junior TE/ Division: V DB Casey Chestnut.

Coach: Steve Sheehan (181-90-1) Outlook: Parker will be dealing with a Last year: 2-8 young team that is learning a new sysPlayers to watch: Junior WR Al Uptem. Coming off the program’s first trip shaw; junior RB Kameron Toney; senior to the playoffs, New Miami will be led RB/DB Montez Greer; senior LB Maurice by Davis, a four-year starter who is closSmoot; senior LB Ernest Smith. ing in on becoming the school’s all-time Outlook: Clark’s football program leading tackler. But with just three startchanged a lot over the offseason by ers returning on offense and three on adding Sheehan and joining the MVC. defense, New Miami will have to rely on Clark has 13 starters returning from last some inexperienced underclassmen. year’s 2-8 team, and Sheehan has been New Miami has just eight seniors on its pleased with his players’ speed and in- roster. telligence. But only nine players weigh — Adam Baum

THE ENQUIRER

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009 C17

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

CINCINNATI HILLS LEAGUE (Teams listed in coaches’ predicted order of finish)

Indian Hill

The Enquirer/Cara Owsley

Mike Theisen takes over as head coach of Indian Hill after spending the past 15 years on the Braves’ sideline. At the top of his to-do list? Guiding the Braves back to the Division III playoffs.

NEW HEAD COACH, SAME APPROACH Theisen at helm for CHL champion Indian Hill

By Cedric K. Brown ckbrown@enquirer.com

Indian Hill will defend its Cincinnati Hills League championship under a first-year head coach. Yet the Braves really won’t be making a major adjustment.

Mike Theisen became head coach in March after serving as the Braves’ defensive coordinator. He has worked on the sidelines at Indian Hill for the past 15 years.

“I’m really excited about this opportunity,” said Theisen. “I’ve been around this program a long time. I know these kids and the community, and I want to keep the tradition going.”

At the top of Theisen’s list of goals is leading Indian Hill back to the playoffs. Last season the Braves (8-2) finished ninth in the final Harbin computer rankings, seven-tenths of a point shy of the final Division III, Region 12 playoff spot.

Before that, Indian Hill had entered the postseason as the No. 1 seed in the region for four straight years.

Theisen knows exactly why the Braves were caught on the outside looking in last season: a 42-41 loss at home to Division III Valley View in Week 2, followed by a 28-21 defeat at Division II Turpin.

This year the Braves open the season with McNicholas (D-III), Turpin and Valley View, and Theisen is determined not to let his team find itself in another early hole.

“We absolutely have to beat those quality football teams; that’s what hurt us last year,” Theisen said.

“Valley View, Turpin and McNick are the key to our season. We have to win two of our first three games.”

Theisen’s Braves will be led by 21

Division: IV Coach: Dan McSurley (121-62) Last year: 10-1 (6-0 South Central Ohio League) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Senior RG/DT Corby Running; junior RB/LB Gunner Calhoun; junior DE Justin Straight; junior RT Michael Stenger.

Other key players: Sophomore LT Jared Salisbury; senior LG James Ebbey; junior TB Jordie Scanlon.

Outlook: As far as size, McSurley thinks this team is the best he has had.

Clinton-Massie returns 13 starters from last year, including eight on a defense that allowed only 12.6 points per game.

The offense, which averaged 42 points per game, will make the transition to new quarterback Jake Richardson, a pure option QB. Barring injuries, McSurley said, this team should be as good as last year’s 10-1 squad.

East Central Division: IV-A Coach: Don Stonefield (66-20) Last year: 10-2 (5-0 Eastern Indiana Athletic Conference) Last league title: 2008 Players to watch: Junior TE/DE Brady Collins; junior OG/DE Kyle Owens; senior DB/KR Adam Rauch; senior TB R.J. Thomas.

Other key players: Senior QB Tyler Deters; senior WR Tyler Hall; senior ILB Derek Fee; senior OLB Chris Struewing;

Wyoming Division: III Coach: Bernie Barre (289-101) Last year: 7-3 (6-1) Last league title: 2004 Players to watch: Senior DL Jibreel Black; senior DB Isaiah Nearor; senior DB Jacob Allsop; senior OL Nick Layman.

Other key players: Senior RB Harry Meisner; junior QB Kyle Seyfried.

Outlook: The Cowboys are loaded with experience, returning six starters on each side of the ball. Seyfried returns after a solid sophomore season when he totaled 1,608 yards passing and tossed nine touchdowns.

Said Barre: “We have a good team and a stable coaching staff with lots of experience.”

Reading

The Enquirer/Cara Owsley

The Braves handed over the quarterbacking duties to Sam Hendricks, a converted wide receiver who will lead a more run-oriented offense.

New sheriff in town Mike Theisen is replacing his mentor at Indian Hill, Kevin Siple, who left to become offensive coordinator at CHCA. But Theisen isn’t new to football.

He played linebacker at Iowa State before spending three years on the Oakland Raiders’ practice squad.

Including a stint at Holmes, Theisen has been coaching high school football for 22 years. seniors and seven returning assistant coaches.

One major change, though, will

be at quarterback, where Sam Hendricks, a converted wide receiver, will replace the graduated Bo Cordell, who was first-team all-state after passing for 2,853 yards and 31 touchdowns.

Hendricks, who is 6 feet 4 and 215 pounds, will lead an offensive scheme built more around running than the previous pass-happy attack.

“He learned a lot last year from Bo, but he has his own set of skills,” Theisen said of Hendricks. “This young man is a very strong runner.”

Theisen said the Braves will keep their signature spread offense, but he’s not afraid to change with the times.

“Coaching kids today is different than it was 20 years ago,” he said. “(Players) have to be a part of the decision-making process.”

OTHER AREA SCHOOLS Clinton-Massie

Division: III Coach: Mike Theisen (first season) Last year: 8-2 (7-0) Last league title: 2009 Players to watch: Senior QB Sam Hendricks; senior RB Jacob Bauer; senior DE Jeremy Dollin; senior SS Max Hendricks.

Other key players: Senior C Jamie Lackman; senior CB Matt Littman; senior WR/K Logan Kornman; senior MLB A.J. Froehlich; senior LB Mick Thomas.

Outlook: Indian Hill is making significant changes to its offense, led by Sam Hendricks.

Theisen says his team will be a lot more up-tempo and probably will run more than pass to accommodate the 6-foot-4, 215-pound Hendricks, who played wide receiver for the Braves last season. “We will still work out of the spread (offense), but it will be a different style of offense,” said Theisen.

Hendricks was the team’s second-leading receiver last season with 33 catches for 606 yards and seven touchdowns.

senior WR/DB David Mansfield.

Outlook: East Central returns eight players from a defense that helped the Trojans reach the sectional championship game. But challenges await on the offense, with a new quarterback (Deters) and two new wide receivers.

Fenwick Division: IV Coach: Fred Cranford (9-21) Last year: 3-7 (1-6 Greater Catholic League North) Last league title: 2003 (Mid-Miami League) Player to watch: Senior QB Tyler Murphy; senior HB Sammy Keegan; junior FB Joey Robertson; senior guard Luke Compton.

Other key players: Senior DE Patrick Hudepohl; senior LB Dylan McCulley; senior LB Jake McCabe; junior CB Jimmy Turvey; junior WR Steven Munafo.

Outlook: Keegan didn’t play last season due to health issues but was a starter as a sophomore. He’ll team with three-year starter Murphy and fullback Robertson at the heart of the wing-T offense. Cranford said the key for the team will be how quickly the players jell.

Lebanon Division: I Coach: Sean Lamb (24-16) Last year: 7-3 (3-1 Greater Western Ohio Conference South) Last league title: 2006 Players to watch: Senior WR Chase Cochran; senior QB Dusty Isaacs; senior

OL Elias Sayre; senior TB/DB Trey Bonny.

Other key players: Senior LB Jake Gilbert; senior DL Bryant Presley; senior S Shane Boger.

Outlook: The Warriors bring back 11 starters from last season, including five who started the last two years. Lebanon boasts five all-league honorees, and Lamb believes his team will be better than the 7-3 record it posted last season. To utilize its speed, particularly Cochran’s, Lebanon will run a little more spread offense this season. With strong veteran leadership, the Warriors hope to make their first trip to the playoffs since 2002.

Monroe Division: III Coach: Ken Meibers III (5-5) Last year: 5-5 (5-1 Southwestern Buckeye League Buckeye) Last league title: 2007 Players to watch: Senior FS/QB Ben Leahy; senior RB Jeff Haller; junior RB Devin King; senior OLB Joe Rainey; senior OLB Nate Morgan; senior CB Ryan Leahy.

Other key players: Senior center Logan Pence; senior OT Joe Farrish; senior CB Brandon Hodges.

Outlook: With 17 starters back, including the entire offensive line and eight defensive starters, Monroe hopes to reclaim the league title it held in 2007.

— Marcus Boyd

Division: IV Coach: Scott Thamann (5-5) Last year: 5-5 (4-3) Last league title: 2003 Players to watch: Junior RB Rashad Kyte; senior RB/DE Kirby Acus; senior DL Fred Boswell; senior DE Perris Blair; senior WR/DB Tyler Bessey; senior WR Ben Gertz.

Other key players: Senior LB Clay Hughes; senior QB Brandon Minor; junior DB Mason Antoun.

Outlook: The Blue Devils are looking to improve behind Minor, who served as the team’s backup quarterback last season, and Acus in the backfield.

Last year Acus rushed for 473 yards and seven touchdowns.

“We are pretty talented, but not deep,” said Thamann. “If we stay healthy, we should have a good season. We need to start the season strong to build momentum leading into league play.”

Madeira Division: IV Coach: Tony Arcuri (6-4) Last year: 6-4 (5-2) Last league title: 1999 Players to watch: Senior DE Eric Rolfes; senior WR/DB Ryan Santoro; junior QB Pat McClanahan.

Other key player: Junior WR/ DB Mike Costantini.

Outlook: Arcuri and the Mustangs will count heavily on the offensive and defensive lines, which return the bulk of their starters. “We’re going to ride the backs of the leadership from those positions and go as far as they take us,” said Arcuri. “I’d be disappointed if we’re not a playoff team. If we can keep people healthy and avoid beating ourselves, we should be playing in November.”

Mariemont Division: V Coach: Tom Crosby (200-114-1) Last year: 2-8 (2-5) Last league title: 1996 Players to watch: Junior QB Chip Stewart; senior FB/LB Chris Groppe.

Other key players: Senior G Riley Webb; junior OL Drew Hyer; junior OL Evan Hollyday; senior OL Bryan Georgilis; junior RB Jake Griffin; senior DL Tyler Wood; junior LB Alex Utt; senior LB Kevin Nerl; junior DB John Sunday; junior DB Chase Beach.

Outlook: Mariemont wants to balance its steady running attack with a developing passing game, led by Stewart. The Warriors’ backfield will be anchored

Enquirer file

Reading coach Scott Thamann

Games to watch m Matchup: Reading at Indian Hill, Oct. 9 Notes: A big statement game for the Blue Devils, who expect to contend for a conference title. m Matchup: Indian Hill at Wyoming, Oct. 30 Notes: This final-week battle between the league’s top two teams could set up to be a CHL championship game. m Matchup: Mariemont at Madeira, Oct. 30 Notes: This longstanding rivalry moves to Mariemont and features two teams looking to bounce back from disappointing campaigns last year.

by Groppe, who averaged 5.8 yards per carry last season to go along with eight touchdowns.

Groppe also will line up on defense at outside linebacker; last season, he recorded 110 tackles and seven sacks. “We hope to be the most improved team in the CHL and battle for a playoff berth,” said Crosby. “Our biggest challenge is to regain the inner confidence in our ability to succeed and then make it happen on the field.”

Finneytown Division: IV Coach: Shane Hartley (4-6) Last year: 4-6 (2-5) Last league title: None Players to watch: Senior RB/SS Tylor Sims; senior WR/ FS Maurice Burns; junior OL/DL Donovan Clark.

Other key player: Senior QB Matt Blauser.

Outlook: Blauser will lead the Wildcats after throwing for 537 yards last season as a backup. “We will be a young and inexperienced team,” said Hartley. “Our team attitude, however, has been great, and we have high hopes that team chemistry will overcome lack of depth and experience.”

Taylor Division: III Coach: Dave Huffman (2-8) Last year: 2-8 (1-6) Last league title: None Players to watch: Senior RB John Greene; junior OL Chris Barrier; junior OL Sean Weisgerber.

Other key players: Sophomore OL Evan Koons; senior RB Cameron Youngblood.

Outlook: The main thing Huffman wants out of his team is for it to learn how to win. “We had a good offseason of lifting and conditioning, and we have guys coming back with experience from last year,” the coach said. “We think we’ll improve on last year, but there are a lot of unknowns.” Returning to the backfield is Youngblood, who last year rushed for 805 yards and eight touchdowns.

Deer Park Division: V Coach: Barry Pettyjohn (33-50) Last year: 1-9 (1-6) Last league title: 1982 Players to watch: Senior TE/ LB Robby Adkins; senior HB/LB R.J. King; senior RB/OLB Ben Flamm; senior WR/DB Billy Baker; senior OL/DL Justin Macke.

Other key players: Junior QB/DB Daniel Sporing; junior OL/DL Shaun Madden; senior HB/DB/K Mike Eaken; sophomore OL Isaiah Headen.

Outlook: The Wildcats are hoping their experience will help them avoid another disappointing season. Deer Park returns eight starters on offense and seven on defense, including four senior linebackers. “We knew last year was going to be a little rough,” said Pettyjohn.

“But we have a lot more experience this year, so things will be different.”

— Cedric K. Brown

C18 THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2009

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW

WESTERN BROWN COACH LEADS YOUTH MOVEMENT

By Marcus Boyd mboyd@enquirer.com

The closest most 24-yearolds will come to being head coach of a football team is playing a video game.

But not at Western Brown, where Evan Dreyer, 24, is believed to be the youngest head coach in the state. While his contemporaries try to work their way up the coaching ladder, Dreyer will lead the Broncos in pursuit of a repeat as Southern Buckeye Conference champions, with a return trip to the Division II playoffs.

Dreyer has taken over for Don Sizer, who took an assistant coaching job at Wilmington College. Under Sizer, Western Brown won three league titles and last season posted a 10-0 regularseason record.

Athletic director Tim Cook faced a tall task in finding the right new coach.

“We talked to four or five candidates, and (Dreyer) just so happened to be the last one to come in and interview,” Cook said. “The fact that he coached at both Anderson and Colerain, as well as being the most suitable, left us in awe, especially looking at his age.”

Indeed, Dreyer has crafted an impressive résumé quickly. The 2003 McNicholas graduate played quarterback at Mount St. Joseph, where he majored in special education. After graduating in 2007, Dreyer’s pursuit of a teaching job led him to become acquainted with Colerain coach Tom Bolden.

Bolden made Dreyer his wide receivers coach, and a new career was born.

“I appreciate Bolden and just Colerain in general so much for the opportunity they gave me,” said Dreyer.

“Never would I have thought I would have had the chance to coach a nationally top-25 team at the age of 22.”

Said Bolden of Dreyer: “He’s very energetic. He wants to work hard and enjoys working hard. He did a good job for us and Anderson, and that has helped him to get to the position where he is at.”

While at Colerain, Dreyer worked with three players who would go on to Division I college football: Quentin Sims (Georgia Tech), Ravelle Sadler (Louisville) and Damon Sims (Indiana).

“Coach was a very good coach while I was at Colerain,” Sadler said. “… Everything he did, it was all about making me a better receiver, and I think he is going to be a great head coach at Western Brown.”

After one year at Colerain, Dreyer became Anderson’s offensive assistant coach under Jeff Giesting.

Playoff schedules OHIO Regional quarterfinals m Divisions II, III, V: Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m. m Divisions I, IV, VI: Nov. 7, 7 p.m.

Regional semifinals m Divisions II, III, V: Nov. 13, 7:30 p.m. m Divisions I, IV, VI: Nov. 14, 7 p.m.

Regional finals m Divisions II, III, V: Nov. 20, 7:30 p.m. m Divisions I, IV, VI: Nov. 21, 7 p.m.

State semifinals m Divisions II, III, V: Nov. 27, 7:30 p.m. m Divisions I, IV, VI: Nov. 28, 7:30 p.m.

State finals Friday, Dec. 4 m Division III: 11 a.m., Massillon m Division V: 3 p.m., Canton m Division II: 7 p.m., Massillon Saturday, Dec. 5 m Division IV: 11 a.m., Canton m Division VI: 3 p.m., Massillon m Division I: 7 p.m., Canton KENTUCKY m First round, Nov. 6-7 m Second round, Nov. 13-14 m Third round, Nov. 20-21 m State semifinals, Nov. 27-28 m State finals: Dec. 4-5, L.T. Smith Stadium, Bowling Green

“Evan will do a great job,” said Giesting. “He is very knowledgeable about the game and I Dreyer feel that he was very prepared to move up to become a head coach.”

Dreyer’s staff features

four 24-year-olds. In spite of that youth, and the relatively small gap in age between the coaches and their players, Dreyer is confident in his ability to lead an established program like Western Brown.

“I feel that with opportunity comes experience,” he said. “Being 24, I can only get better.”

THE ENQUIRER

AT CINCINNATI.COM | CHAT IT UP In conjunction with the release of today’s football preview, Enquirer high school sports writers Mike Dyer and Ryan Ernst will host a noon online chat at Cincinnati.Com. In recent days, Cincinnati.Com hosted chats featuring area coaches John Rodenberg (Moeller), Larry Cox (Lakota West) and Tom Bolden (Colerain). Some highlights: MOELLER’S JOHN RODENBERG Question: Coach, who do you feel is the best player in the GCL? Rodenberg: I have tremendous respect for Elder quarterback Mark Miller. He is a great high school quarterback who reads coverages better than anyone I have ever coached against.

LAKOTA WEST’S LARRY COX Q: What can you tell us about Jordan Hicks that these recruiting sites can’t?

Cox: He’s a better person than he is an athlete. That’s a pretty large statement, but he backs it up with the way he lives his life.

COLERAIN’S TOM BOLDEN Q: Can you state your case why the GMC is better than the GCL this season?

Bolden: I would say the GMC is the best 10-team league around. On the other hand, I would say the GCL is the best four-team league with the most parity.

Check out Cincinnati.Com all season for more chats with coaches and experts.