Menards Friday Night Live Preview Guide 2015 by The Columbus Dispatch/Dispatch Magazines

2015 Central Ohio High School Football Preview Guide

Triple threat

August 27, 2015

The area’s top quarterbacks have made names for themselves by showcasing different playing styles while leading their teams to success.

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INSIDE FEATURES Players to watch .............4 Staff predictions .............6 Cover story.....................8 Weekly schedules....46-47 OCC-OHIO Division spotlight ............9 Gahanna Lincoln.............9 Pickerington Central......10 Pickerington North ........11 Reynoldsburg ...............12 Lancaster .....................13 Groveport Madison........14 Newark ........................14 Grove City.....................16 OCC-CENTRAL Division spotlight ..........20 Central Crossing ...........20 Dublin Coffman.............21 Upper Arlington.............22 Marysville.....................23 Hilliard Davidson...........24 Westland ......................26 Thomas Worthington.....26 Olentangy Liberty..........27 OCC-CAPITAL Division spotlight ..........32 Franklin Heights............32 Worth. Kilbourne ...........33 Big Walnut....................34 New Albany ..................35 Mount Vernon ...............36 Olentangy Orange .........37 Olentangy.....................37 Delaware Hayes............40

OCC-CARDINAL Division spotlight ..........42 Westerville Central........42 Canal Winchester..........43 Dublin Jerome ..............45 Dublin Scioto ................48 Hilliard Bradley .............49 Hilliard Darby................50 Westerville North ..........51 Westerville South..........52 CITY LEAGUE-NORTH Division spotlight ..........55 Linden-McKinley...........55 Beechcroft....................56 Centennial ....................57 Columbus East..............58 Northland .....................58 Mifflin...........................59 Whetstone ....................59 CITY LEAGUE-SOUTH Division spotlight ..........61 Walnut Ridge ................61 Marion-Franklin ............62 Independence...............63 Briggs ..........................63 Africentric.....................64 Eastmoor Academy .......64 Columbus South ...........65 Columbus West.............65

CCL League spotlight ...........67 DeSales........................67 Watterson.....................68 St. Charles....................69 Hartley .........................70 Ready...........................71 LCL-BUCKEYE League spotlight ...........73 Licking Valley................73 Granville.......................74 Watkins Memorial.........74 Lakewood ....................75 Licking Heights.............75 LCL-CARDINAL Johnstown-Monroe.......76 Newark Catholic ...........77 Heath ...........................77 Utica ............................78 Northridge ....................78 OTHER AREA TEAMS Bexley ..........................79 Buckeye Valley..............80 Hamilton Township........80 Grove City Christian ......81 Whitehall-Yearling.........82 Worthington Christian....83 Harvest Prep.................84 Jonathan Alder .............84 Columbus Academy ......85 Grandview Heights........86 Columbus Crusaders.....87

Don’t miss a play! HigHligHt videos from the area’s top high-school football games are coming to ThisWeekSports.com/FNL Saturday mornings beginning Aug. 29.

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PLAYERS TO WATCH

Versatility common among area standouts By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Of the 22 high school football players from central Ohio who had committed to play for FBS programs by the end of July, 11 are projected to play defense and five were recruited as offensive linemen. According to Pickerington Central coach Jay Sharrett, that doesn’t necessarily mean, however, that none of those players will find considerably different roles once they settle in at the next level. One of Sharrett’s former players, 2012 graduate Sebastian Smith, fits that category. Although Smith saw action at wide receiver for the Tigers during their Division I state runner-up season in 2011, he was recruited by Ohio University as a safety. Now a junior, Smith was moved to wide receiver shortly after he began playing for the Bobcats and had 31 receptions last fall. “You never can tell what will happen once they get there,” Sharrett said. “College coaches know it’s a crapshoot. Sebastian Smith went (to OU) as a free safety, but he moved to wide receiver once he got there. You can still get a pretty good shot at the NFL from the (Mid-American Conference).” The 2016 recruiting class features several players capable of standing out on either side of the ball at the next level, with Olentangy’s Obi Anunike and Walnut Ridge’s Malik Harrison among that group. The 6-foot-2, 170-pound Anunike, who is expected to miss the beginning of the season after breaking a collarbone in early July, had 50 receptions last season but was recruited as an “athlete” who also has the size and speed to play defensive back. Harrison played quarterback last season for the Scots, but at 6-5 and 200 pounds, he has the physical tools to play a number of positions in college. “A lot of times (college coaches) look at size and projections,” Walnut Ridge coach Byron Mattox said. “Most guys play both sides of the ball (in high school), but with guys who end up playing defense, a lot of it is having that desire to hit and have a high motor.”

Below is a look at some of the area’s top players, by position: •QUARTERBACK – Dublin Coffman’s Gunnar Hoak is coming off a season in which he threw for 2,572 yards and 30 touchdowns while being named the Division I district Offensive Player of the Year and ThisWeek Super 25 captain. Hilliard Darby’s Nick Powers and Olentangy’s Deeb Haber also return after makPage 4

The 10 spot Below are 10 players to watch heading into the 2015 central Ohio high school football season: AUSTIN ANDREWS DeSales Sr. RB/DB The Stallions earned a regional runner-up finish last season, and the 6-foot, 180-pound Andrews, who has committed to Michigan as a cornerback, was a big reason. JONATHON COOPER Gahanna Lincoln Sr. DL The 6-3, 232-pound Cooper was named first-team all-district last season and was the fourth player from the 2016 class to commit to Ohio State. DEEB HABER Olentangy Sr. QB The 6-2, 190-pound Haber threw for 2,785 yards and 23 touchdowns and rushed for eight scores last season as the Braves went 13-1. MALIK HARRISON Walnut Ridge Sr. QB/LB The 6-4, 190-pound Hoak, who has committed to Kentucky, was named ThisWeek Super 25 captain and Division I district Offensive Player of the Year last season. GUNNAR HOAK Dublin Coffman Sr. QB The 6-4, 190-pound Hoak, who has committed to Kentucky, was named ThisWeek Super 25 captain and Division I district Offensive Player of the Year last season. NICK POWERS Hilliard Darby Sr. QB Powers used his 6-2, 185-pound frame to rush for 18 touchdowns and pass for 10 last season and was OCC-Cardinal Player of the Year and second-team all-district. BENNY SNELL Westerville Central Sr. RB Another Kentucky recruit, the 5-11, 200-pound Snell rushed for 2,077 yards and 26 touchdowns last season while helping the Warhawks finish 11-2.

Olentangy’s Obi Anunike is being recruited as an “athlete” because of his ability to play both wide receiver and defensive back. JENNA WATSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

ing the Super 25. Another who led his team to the playoffs a year ago is Olentangy Liberty’s Alex Lando, who passed for 2,045 yards and 22 touchdowns. The City League has a group of strong returning quarterbacks that includes Beechcroft’s Macyah Fleming, Whetstone’s Jack Staggs and Harrison. Other experienced returnees include Central Crossing’s Deric Williamson, Westerville Central’s Gavin Lyon, Gahanna Lincoln’s Mason Blancett, Pickerington North’s Jimmy Weirick, Hamilton Township’s Patrick Robinson, Granville’s Kyle Zies, Columbus Academy’s Matt Watters and Grandview’s Andre Readey. •RUNNING BACK – Westerville Central’s Benny Snell is coming off a season in which he rushed for 2,077 yards and 26 touchdowns. Snell and Hoak have committed to Kentucky. Worthington Kilbourne’s Isaiah Young ran for 1,463 yards and 12 touchdowns a year ago and Hartley’s Quri Hickman finished with 1,469 yards and 26 scores as each helped his team reach the playoffs. Independence’s Ronnie Kuipers rushed for 2,002 yards and 21 touchdowns last season. Derrione Leeper (MarionFranklin), Byron White (Columbus West) and Tyion Akins (Eastmoor Academy) are other City League returnees. •WIDE RECEIVER/TIGHT END – Joining Anunike among

Although a junior, Westerville South’s Marcus Williamson already has committed to Ohio State. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

the area’s top wide receivers is Franklin Heights’ Seth Dawkins, a Louisville recruit. Central Crossing’s Noah Stephens and Westerville Central’s Cedric Frierson are others who had at least 50 recep-

tions last year for teams that made the playoffs. Westerville South has an explosive athlete in sophomore Jaelen Gill, who had 37 catches a year ago. Whetstone’s Aidan Tuttle

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NOAH STEPHENS Central Crossing Sr. WR The 6-4, 215-pound Stephens had 60 catches for 966 yards and scored 10 touchdowns last season to help lead the Comets to their first playoff berth. ETHAN TUCKY Delaware Hayes Sr. RB The 6-3, 220-pound Tucky, who has committed to Boston College as a linebacker, finished with 112 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and 10 sacks last season. MARCUS WILLIAMSON Westerville South Jr. WR/DB A four-star recruit at cornerback with blazing speed, the 5-10, 178-pound Williamson is one of Ohio State’s first commits from the 2017 class.

had 94 catches for 1,082 yards and 11 touchdowns last season and Dublin Jerome’s Skyler Blake had 54 receptions. Recruited to play tight end collegiately from the 2016 class are Grove City’s Brandon Chapman (Wake Forest) and Kilbourne’s Dakota Holtzclaw (Kentucky). •OFFENSIVE/DEFENSIVE LINE – Led by Gahanna defensive end and Ohio State recruit Jonathon Cooper, eight area linemen have committed to FBS programs. Also having pledged to Big Ten programs as defensive linemen are Reynoldsburg’s Mark Gooden (Northwestern) and Westerville North’s Antonio Shelton (Illinois). Westerville South offensive lineman Gunnar Vogel will join Gooden at Northwestern. Set to play in the Big Ten as offensive linemen are Liberty’s A.J. Arcuri (Michigan State), Olentangy’s Luke Campbell (Purdue) and Coffman’s Alex Gellerstedt (Penn State). Pickerington North’s Adam Notestine (Ohio U.) is another FBS commit. Back after making first-team all-district last season are Hamilton Township’s Christian Swauger (Division II), Big Walnut’s Ethan Hale (Division III), Granville’s Nate Miller

(Division III) and Newark Catholic’s Nick Cavinee (Division VI). •LINEBACKER – Another Coffman player who will play for a power-five conference school is middle linebacker Griffin Grady, who has committed to Wisconsin. Teammate Isaac McKinney was last year’s OCC-Central Defensive Player of the Year and first-team all-district. Another Kentucky recruit, Pickerington Central’s Jaylin Bannerman, projects at defensive end in college after starting last year at linebacker. Delaware Hayes’ Ethan Tucky (Boston College) and Olentangy’s Chris Crumb (Ball State) are other college commits. Grandview’s Rhodes Jump was named first-team all-district in Division VI last season and Hilliard Bradley’s Chris Wall was second-team all-district in Division II. •SECONDARY – Four future Big Ten players lead this group. Pickerington Central’s Seth Currens has committed to Wisconsin, DeSales’ Austin Andrews will play for Michigan State and Hamilton Township’s Jake Long has commit-

TOP PLAYERS >> 12 August 27, 2015

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ON THE COVER

(From left) Hilliard Darby’s Nick Powers, Olentangy’s Deeb Haber and Dublin Coffman’s Gunnar Hoak are the area’s top quarterbacks. Last year, Hoak was the Central District Player of the Year in Division I. Haber was first-team all-district in Division II, and Powers was second-team behind Hoak. All three were first-team on ThisWeek’s Super 25 team. PHOTO BY JOSHUA A. BICKEL/THISWEEKSPORTS

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COVER STORY

Quarterback trio help shape area landscape By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Dublin Scioto High School coach Karl Johnson believes one statistic perfectly illustrates how much football has changed at the prep level over the past two decades. During the 1995 season when the Irish won their only state championship, they averaged fewer than 10 passes per game. Johnson, who was an assistant coach that season and has been Scioto’s head coach since 2000, has seen his sport evolve into one in which the quarterback’s No. 1 job is no longer to hand off the ball. “When I got started, we were always looking for guys to be a leader for the offense, but they didn’t necessarily have to do everything,” Johnson said. “No one probably throws the ball as much as they think, but we throw it a lot more than we did in ’95. Now we need (our quarterback) to throw and we need him to be smart. Back then, 12 passes (per game) would be a lot. Now, some teams might average 30.” While an increased emphasis on passing might be the sport’s most obvious change during the past 20 years, it’s just one aspect of quarterback play that has changed. The signal caller must not only keep mistakes at a minimum regardless of how his team utilizes its running backs, but he also must “fit” whatever offense his team runs.

Triple threat

Olentangy’s Deeb Haber threw for 2,785 yards and 23 touchdowns and had eight rushing touchdowns. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

Even though five of the seven Central District Offensive Players of the Year last season were running backs, senior quarterbacks Deeb Haber of Olentangy, Gunnar Hoak of Dublin Coffman and Nick Powers of Hilliard Darby likely will do more to shape central Ohio than any other players this fall. Last season, Hoak was named district Offensive Player of the Year in Division I while leading Coffman to a perfect regular season and the second round of the Region 2 playoffs.

Gunnar Hoak threw for 2,572 yards and 30 touchdowns in Coffman’s drop-back, zone-read offense. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

Powers was second-team all-district behind Hoak while leading Darby to a Region 2 playoff berth, and Haber was first-team all-district in Division II and guided Olentangy to an undefeated regular season and a state semifinal appearance. While each brings a slightly different playing style, all three have some of the same intangibles – with the biggest being their expertise in running their respective team’s scheme. “You don’t want to change your

Nick Powers led Darby with 1,229 yards passing and 1,136 rushing. He accounted for 28 touchdowns. JENNA WATSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

offense,” Westerville Central coach John Magistro said. “Say we have a good running quarterback or a great throwing quarterback. You still want to stay within your philosophy of what you believe in on offense. We’re all copycats, but it basically comes down to doing the things that you think make you better.”

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Power trio

After wrestling the starting job away from a senior who had seen the majority of the action in 2013, Hoak

EXPECTED

took off last season. The Shamrocks averaged 42.5 points during the regular season and finished 11-1, with Hoak putting up impressive enough numbers to be named the ThisWeek Super 25 captain. He finished with 2,572 yards passing with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Hoak, who admits he’s “not really the running type,” is the perfect match for the Shamrocks’ drop-back, zoneread passing style given his arm strength and 6-foot-4, 190-pound frame. “Definitely the experience I got as a sophomore helped,” said Hoak, who committed to the University of Kentucky in April. “In terms of passing and running, we’re about even, but we try to get it inside the hash marks. (My height) for sure definitely helps me to be able to see down the field. We are more of a drop-back team, so I mostly stay in the pocket.” Powers is on the other side of the quarterback spectrum in terms of style. The 6-2, 185-pounder helped the Panthers run their triple-option offense nearly flawlessly last season. Darby went 9-2, with Powers rushing for 1,229 yards and 18 touchdowns on 227 carries and completing 69 of 98 passes for 1,136 yards with 10 touchdowns and two interceptions. The Panthers’ second-leading rusher, senior fullback Kyle Colvin,

QUARTERBACKS >> 37

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OCC-OHIO DIVISION Spotlight

Cooper used camp tour to hone skills

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Locking up a scholarship to his dream school never has been the final destination for Gahanna Lincoln High School football player Jonathon Cooper. Since he verbally committed to play for defending national champion Ohio State six days after the Lions’ season ended with a 7-0 loss to Pickerington Central in the first round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs, the standout defensive end continued to hit everything in sight – the weight room, the camp circuit, and even the classroom. His interest in potentially majoring in accounting lines up with the personality of one of the nation’s top recruits at his position. “I’m pretty good in math, and my mom (Jessica Moorman) used to be an accountant,” Cooper said. “With accounting you definitely have to work hard to make the grades. From a football standpoint, you have to work hard

Inside the division 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Pick. Central 7-0 11-1 Gahanna 6-1 7-4 Lancaster 5-2 7-3 Pick. North 4-3 4-6 Reynoldsburg 3-4 3-7 Newark 2-5 2-8 Grove City 1-6 2-8 Groveport 0-7 2-8 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Sept. 18 Gahanna at Groveport Grove City at Reynoldsburg Central at Lancaster North at Newark Sept. 25 Newark at Gahanna Groveport at Grove City Lancaster at North Reynoldsburg at Central Oct. 2 Reynoldsburg at Gahanna Grove City at Newark

Jonathon Cooper has committed to Ohio State after finishing last season with 49 solo tackles, 35 assists and 11.5 sacks. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKSPORTS

to get the result you want.” No one can dispute how that approach has impacted Cooper or the Lions. After making second-team all-league as a soph-

omore when Gahanna stumbled to a 3-7 finish and former coach John Snoad got fired, Cooper blossomed into one of central Ohio’s best at his posi-

tion a year ago. He closed last season with 49 solo tackles, 35 assisted tackles, 14 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks while making first-

team all-district and the ThisWeek Super 25. Gahanna improved to 7-4, making the playoffs for the 11th time in program history. Cooper has added 15-20 pounds of muscle since the end of last season and stands 6-

Lancaster at Groveport Central at North Oct. 9 Gahanna at Lancaster Central at Grove City Groveport at Newark North at Reynoldsburg Oct. 15 Lancaster at Reynoldsburg Oct. 16 Grove City at Gahanna Groveport at North Newark at Central Oct. 23 North at Gahanna Lancaster at Grove City Central at Groveport Reynoldsburg at Newark Oct. 29 Gahanna at Central Oct. 30 Grove City at North Groveport at Reynoldsburg Newark at Lancaster

foot-4 and about 235 pounds. He’ll be one of four players from Ohio who will play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl on Jan. 9, 2016, at the Alamodome in San Antonio.

COOPER >> 39

Gahanna Lincoln

Lions hoping focus on effort leads to league title By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM As his team prepared to work on a special teams drill at practice Aug. 11, Gahanna Lincoln High School football coach Bruce Ward had specific words about how he expected his players to operate. “Does it take talent to give effort?” Ward asked the team. “No,” several answered in unison. “That’s why you’re out here – to control your effort,” Ward said. It was a reminder of how important every play could be to the Lions this fall as they set out to reach a goal that has seemed like a monumental task for several years – winning a league championship. Since the latest re-alignment of the OCC in 2008, Pickerington Central has won at least a share of title every season. Gahanna has finished as runner-up twice during that time, including last fall in Ward’s first season as coach when the Lions bounced back from a 37 finish in 2013 to go 7-4 overall and 6-1 in the league. The Lions were no match for the Tigers in the regular season last year, however, falling 34-6 in the final week of the schedule. They then lost to Central a week later, 7-0, in the first round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs. This season, the teams will meet in a televised game on the CW Columbus’ Thursday Night Lights, Oct. 29 at August 27, 2015

Central. “They understand the expectations of wanting to win an OCC title and making the playoffs,” Ward said. “I’d love to have week 10 in the Thursday night game matter.” Gahanna – which has lost 11 times in a row to Central – overcame an 0-2 start last season that included a 40-0 loss in its opener to Huber Heights Wayne to go on a seven-game winning streak and have a shot at the league title. Westerville Central, which was a Division I, Region 1 playoff qualifier, has replaced Wayne on the schedule. Westerville South, which beat Gahanna 34-17 a year ago, again will be the opponent in week two “Going on a seven-game winning streak last year showed what we can do,” said senior defensive lineman Jonathon Cooper, who has committed verbally to Ohio State. “Winning solves a lot of problems. This team is really good.”

OFFENSE

Few teams in central Ohio have a returning quarterback who has thrown for more than 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons as the Lions do in senior Mason Blancett. Although he went down with an injury during the regular-season finale and missed the playoff game, Blancett was 90-for-175 passing for 1,110 yards with nine touchdowns and four interceptions and added two rushing touchdowns.

The likely No. 2 quarterback is senior Jestin Thompson, who played wide receiver last year for Canal Winchester. The Lions lost a secondteam all-district running back in Vasean Davis (968 yards, 15 touchdowns rushing) to graduation but have added a junior who should make an impact in Bradon Barker. Last season at Whitehall, Barker rushed for 885 yards and eight touchdowns and

GOOD LUCK

Gahanna Lions!

added two scores apiece receiving and in returns while making second-team all-district in Division III. Senior wide receiver Jake Chobany had 22 catches last year and was second-team allleague. Senior running back Shawn Marcum rushed for 365 yards over the first nine games before getting hurt. Junior Terone Gordon rushed for 56 yards in the playoff loss but is expected to play a slotback role

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Senior Elijah Whiteside (WR) has been offered by Ohio Dominican but was out during the preseason with an injury.

DEFENSE

Cooper and junior linebacker Cael Baker are back to lead a defense that allowed 11.5 points per game during the winning streak last season. Baker is the younger brother

LIONS >> 13

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this season. Another potential contributor could be junior Morgan Ellison, who rushed for 170 yards in Pickerington North’s first two games before going down with a season-ending injury. It was uncertain during the preseason whether he would be ruled eligible by the OHSAA. Senior Donovan White, who has offers from Notre Dame College and Ohio Dominican, should lead the offensive line.

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OCC-O HIO D IVISION

Pickerington Central

Seniors set to step up for Tigers By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Year after year in his program, Pickerington High School Central football coach Jay Sharrett has seen it happen. Several inexperienced seniors blossom during what is often their first seasons as starters to help the Tigers make runs to a league title and into the playoffs. He expects nothing less from this year’s group of 28 12thgraders, despite the losses of last year’s Division I district Defensive Player of the Year, DaVon Hamilton, and numerous other standouts. “Fortunately each senior class takes it upon itself,” Sharrett said. “Some people ask me every year, ‘Where’d you get those guys?’ They don’t flip a light switch as a senior. It’s like they flip 10 light switches. “Another thing we stress is that our juniors, sophomores and freshmen win every game they can for the seniors. They know their role. That’s how you start to build a team. It’s the ultimate team sport to me.” Central lost 32 players to graduation, including three who were recruited by FBS or FCS programs in Hamilton (Ohio State), Clayton Glasco (Ohio U.) and Brad Morris (Brown) and nine others who received honors in the OCC-Ohio Division. The Tigers – who went 11-

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Page 10

1 including 7-0 in the league to win at least a share of their ninth consecutive league title – are building around two seniors who will play collegiately. The senior who has played the most is Seth Currens, who saw action as a freshman and should start in the secondary in addition to having a key role on offense. He has committed to play for Wisconsin. Another key senior is Jaylin Bannerman, a Kentucky recruit at defensive end who also could see time at linebacker. Other veterans such as Noah Burk (RB/DB), Brandon Burks Seth Currens, who has committed to Wisconsin, will play a variety of positions for the Tigers. Offensively, he will line up at quar(RB/DB), Drew Cockerham terback and wide receiver, and he’ll also play in the secondary. CHRIS RUSSELL/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH (OL) and Ahmed Francis II (LB) also seem poised to continue what past classes of senAt a glance iors started. 2015 SCHEDULE “We’ve got a lot of captains Aug. 28 .....at Trotwood-Madison on the defense,” Currens said. Sept. 4 .............at Independence “(The seniors) just have to Sept. 11 ...vs. Cincinnati Withrow be hard on the younger guys *Sept. 18 ................at Lancaster because we need them,” Ban*Sept. 25 .........vs. Reynoldsburg *Oct. 2.......at Pickerington North nerman said. “There’s a lot of *Oct. 9 ...................at Grove City tough love. If they mess up, *Oct. 16....................vs. Newark you’ve got to be on them. But *Oct. 23 ..................at Groveport you also have to be like, ‘Good *Oct. 29 ..................vs. Gahanna job,’ to keep them going. We 2014 RESULTS have a lot of great talent this (11-1 overall, 7-0 OCC-Ohio) year.” Goose Creek (S.C.).........W, 14-7

OFFENSE

The player with the most varsity experience at quarterback is Currens, but he’s likely to play a variety of roles in addition to seeing time behind center. Junior Darius Coker should start at quarterback after sitting behind 2015 graduates Matt Martello (85-for-154 passing for 1,187 yards, four touchdowns) and R.J. Williams (52for-88 for 531 yards, four rushing touchdowns). Senior Noah Burk ran for 396 yards and five touchdowns and should be joined at running back by senior Brandon Burks. Bannerman was a key player on defense last season but also should lead a wide receiver corps that includes senior Danny Foster. Senior Drew Cockerham is a returning starter on the offensive line, and senior Anthony Strait also should start up front. Among the losses to graduation, Glasco rushed for 357 yards and seven touchdowns in addition to earning first-team all-district honors at linebacker. David Weimar was the leading receiver with 26 catches for 350 yards and two touchdowns.

Middletown .................W, 14-11 Courtice (Ontario) Holy Trinity Catholic.........................W, 54-0 *Lancaster...................W, 27-12 *Reynoldsburg .............W, 23-13 *Pick. North ..........W, 30-23 (OT) *Grove City ....................W, 20-0 *Newark........................W, 27-3 *Groveport.....................W, 27-7 *Gahanna ......................W, 34-6 PLAYOFFS Gahanna..........................W, 7-0 Cincinnati Moeller.........L, 21-13 *League contest INSIDE THE TIGERS •Coach: Jay Sharrett, 13th season •Top players: Jaylin Bannerman (WR/DL/LB), Noah Burk (RB/DB), Brandon Burks (RB/WR/DB), Drew Cockerham (OL/DL), Darius Coker (QB), Seth Currens (QB/WR/DB), Ahmed Francis II (RB/LB) and Anthony Strait (OL) •Key losses: Clay Burk (LB), Devon Felder (WR/DB), Clayton Glasco (RB/LB), DaVon Hamilton (OL/DL), Eric Johnson (WR/DB), Ken Logwood Jr. (LB), Matt Martello (QB), Brad Morris (WR/DB), David Weimar (WR/DB/P) and R.J. Williams (QB/WR)

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Jaylin Bannerman, who will play at Kentucky, and the Tigers open the season Aug. 28 at TrotwoodMadison. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

Much of that success was due to a defense that featured Hamilton (DL), Glasco (LB) and Morris (DB). Looking to fill those leadership roles are Bannerman (DL), Burk (DB), Burks (DB), Currens (DB) and senior Drew Hawley (LB). “We have similar strengths to last year, but we’ve got a quicker team defensively,” Burks said. “I just think we need to keep doing the same things we did last year and that will elevate us past the second round (of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs).”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Devon McMillin, who FREE ESTIMATES was second-team all-league and honorable mention all-district, See our ad on pg. 91 will be in his fourth season as DEFENSE the kicker. He made four field Although the Tigers scored went on to post the eighth per- goals and 28 extra points last just 14 points in each of their fect regular season in program season. first two games last season, they history. McMillin also is expected to FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

Defense take on the punting duties held Linemen: *Bannerman, Davlast year by Weimar (34.2 averelle Green (sr., 6-0, 215), *Mike age). Taylor (sr., 6-5, 215), Scott THE LINEUP Pierce (sr., 6-2, 200), *Kieren Offense Douglas (jr., 6-1, 205) Quarterbacks: *Darius Coker Linebackers: *Drew Haw(jr., 6-2, 195), Seth Currens (sr., ley (sr., 6-1, 220), *Ahmed 6-3, 205) Francis II (sr., 5-10, 220), *Grey Running backs: *Noah Burk Brancifort (so, 5-11, 190) Secondary: *Burk, *Burks, (sr., 5-10, 175), *Brandon Burks (sr., 6-2, 225), Jermycole Gra- *Currens, Te’ Cogar (jr., 5-10, ham (jr., 5-10, 175), Garon 170), Xavier Henderson (so., 5-11, 175), Jalen Mitchell (so., Howard (jr., 6-0, 195) Receivers: *Jaylin Banner- 5-9, 175), Jeremiah Wood (so., man (sr., 6-5, 215), *Danny Fos- 5-11, 175) ter (sr., 5-10, 170) Special teams Tight ends: *Trent Gillison Kicker: *Devon McMillin (so., 6-4, 215) (Sr., 6-0, 180) Linemen: *Drew Cockerham Punter: *McMillin (sr., 6-3, 275), Zach Reisinger Returners: *Burk, *Foster, (sr., 6-1, 240), *Anthony Strait *Wood (sr., 6-2, 190), Blake Harrison Long snappers: Charlie Gib(jr., 6-2, 255), Brody Egan (so., son (jr., 5-10, 170), Jacob Cre5-11, 275), Wes Rasmussen means (so., 5-11, 190) (so., 6-4, 285), Ravon White (*Denotes projected starter) (so., 6-0, 260), Brandon Wilson (so., 6-0, 270) julrey@thisweeknews.com August 27, 2015

OCC-O HIO D IVISION

Pickerington North

Panthers counting on depth for turnaround By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM There still could be a positive side to the pain the Pickerington High School North football team experienced during just the third losing season in program history a year ago. Injuries forced numerous underclassmen into key roles, but that earlier playing time has the Panthers believing they have more depth than last season when they went 4-6 overall and 4-3 in the OCC-Ohio Division to finish fourth. “The injuries we had led us to play a lot of youth,” coach Tom Phillips said. “When you look at our roster, we’re still pretty young. This sophomore class reminds me of the senior class from (2013 when the Panthers went 10-2 overall). We’ve got some big kids and some skilled kids. “I think we have the best numbers we’ve had. We’ve got 24 letterwinners back coming off a season when we lost four games in the last 51 seconds. I know our kids can compete.” On opening night of last season, the Panthers lost to Cincinnati Moeller 21-6 in what was formerly Crew Stadium and lost their starting quarterback on the game’s last play when Christian Whitner, a 2015 graduate who had transferred in, went down with a season-ending knee injury. Early in the season, North also was missing 2015 graduate Frankie Weirick (RB/LB), who is now playing for Mount Union. Junior Morgan Ellison rushed for 170 yards over the first two games before going down with a season-ending injury as well. He is now a student at Gahanna. Trezden Johnson (RB/DB), who is a senior captain this fall, went down with a season-ending broken collarbone in a 287 loss to Bloomfield Hills (Mich.) Brother Rice in week three. Among the players who took advantage of unexpected opportunities to play were Jimmy Weirick, a sophomore who returns at quarterback, and Noah Owens, a junior running back. Senior Trezden Johnson believes the Panthers have learned from some of the lessons they experienced while losing four games by seven points or fewer. “A ton of seniors are stepping up, so we don’t have any trouble with senior leadership,” Johnson said. “We just look at (last season) as what not to do. It’s really a learning experience. God has his own plan for

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 27............at Central Crossing Sept. 4 ...........vs. Liberty Township Lakota East Sept. 11 ...................vs. Olentangy *Sept. 18.......................at Newark *Sept. 25 ..................vs. Lancaster *Oct. 2 ......vs. Pickerington Central *Oct. 9 .................at Reynoldsburg *Oct. 16 ....................vs. Groveport *Oct. 23.......................at Gahanna *Oct. 30 ...................vs. Grove City 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 4-3 OCC-Ohio) Cincinnati Moeller ..............L, 21-6 Dublin Jerome .................L, 17-16 Bloomfield Hills (Mich.) Brother Rice .........................................L, 28-7 *Newark ...........................W, 37-0 *Lancaster.......................L, 27-26 *Pick. Central............L, 30-23 (OT)

*Reynoldsburg ..................W, 42-7 *Groveport ......................W, 28-19 *Gahanna ........................L, 27-24 *Grove City .......................W, 13-9 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS •Coach: Tom Phillips, ninth season •Top players: Hunter Belleau (RB/LB), Randy DeJarnett (OL/DL), Austin Hence (WR), Trezden Johnson (WR/DB), Adam Notestine (OL/DL), Jayvonta Tolliver (RB/DB), Julien Turner (RB/LB) and Jimmy Weirick (QB/DB) •Key losses: Kyle Beemiller (OL/DL), Ronald Bonner (DB), Liam Carothers (TE/LB), Matt Myers (WR/DB), Stephvan Tanner (RB), Frankie Weirick (LB), Romaeo Whitlow (WR/DB) and Jaye Williams (WR)

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Jimmy Weirick was first-team all-OCC after throwing for 1,118 yards and rushing for 627 more. He accounted for 15 touchdowns. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

us and we’re looking at this year as a time to step up.”

THE LINEUP

OFFENSE

Jimmy Weirick completed 65 of 162 passes for 1,118 yards with 11 touchdowns, and rushed for a team-best 627 yards with four touchdowns while making first-team allleague. Phillips also is high on freshman quarterback Michael Lowery, who could see action in some packages. Senior Bralen Wilson rushed for 342 yards and should be among the featured backs along with Owens. Several players are expected to split time at wide receiver, with senior Austin Hence the most experienced after having 10 receptions last year. He was out during the preseason with a knee injury. Junior Connor Gessells is a player who Phillips believes has the potential to be a Division I recruit at wide receiver. Seniors Hunter Belleau and Julien Turner are among those who will serve as the H-back or fullback, depending on the play call. Seniors Adam Notestine, Jaquez Printup and Wade Stod-

Tolliver is back at punter after averaging 35.5 yards, but the Panthers have a new kicker in junior Kendall Marcum. Marcum made two extra points a year ago while backing up 2015 graduate Alex Strohm, who was 5-for-9 in field goals, including three from beyond 40 yards. Wilson averaged 18.3 yards on kickoff returns.

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(sr., 5-8, 325), Salinas, Robinson, Myron Welch (so., 6-5, 200) Linebackers: *Belleau, *Turner, *Owens, Clay, Morgan Conkel (jr., 5-10, 170), Chris Fields (jr., 5-10, 165), Josiah Quigley (jr., 6-0, 190) Secondary: *Brandon James (sr., 6-0, 160), *Johnson, Ryan Smith (jr., 5-8, 140), *Que Davis (so, 5-10, 172), *Weirick Special teams Kicker: *Kendall Marcum (jr., 5-10, 150) Punter: *Tolliver Returners: James, Wilson, Conkel Long snappers: Trey Farrell (sr., 6-3, 215), Salinas (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jimmy Weirick (so., 5-11, 170), Michael Lowery (fr., 6-1, 160) Running backs: *Bralen Wilson (sr., 5-7, 150), A’sonte’ Clay (jr., 5-8, 160), *Noah Owens (jr., 5-9, 175), Jayvonta julrey@thisweeknews.com Tolliver (jr., 5-9, 170), Kevaughn Robinson (so., 6-0, 180) Receivers: Hunter Belleau (sr., 6-1, 210), Alex Campbell (sr., 6-1, 180), William Hayes (sr., 5-8, 190), Austin Hence something (sr., 6-5, 195), Brandon James to hold on to, (sr., 6-0, 160), *Trezden Johnson (sr., 6-0, 195), *Nathan something Maziarz (sr., 6-4, 185), Julien to motivate you, Turner (sr., 5-11, 215), *Consomething nor Gessells (jr., 6-4, 185) to inspire you. Tight end: *Alex Morgan (so., 6-5, 205) — TONY DORSETT Linemen: *Adam Notestine (sr., 6-4, 320), *Jacquez Printup (sr., 6-3, 295), Kalob Salinas (sr., 6-3, 265), *Wade Stoddard (sr., 6-3, 275), *Andrei Henson (jr., 5-10, 230), *Samuel Plancarte (so., 5-8, 250) Defense Linemen: *Randy DeJarnett (sr., 6-2, 285), Jack Grundey (sr., 5-11, 185), *Aric Lewis

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Hunter Belleau will play linebacker on defense while also lining up at receiver or H-back on offense. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

dard all are returnees on the offensive line. Notestine has verbally committed to play for Ohio University.

DEFENSE

Turner, who had 50.5 tackles and made second-team allleague, is back at linebacker along with Belleau (12.5 tackles for loss). Senior lineman Randy DeJarnett (5.5 tackles for loss)

and defensive backs Jimmy Weirick (three interceptions) and junior Jayvonta Tolliver are other key returnees. In addition to Frankie Weirick, the biggest losses to graduation were wide receiver/defensive backs Romaeo Whitlow and Jaye Williams, who both are at Findlay, and defensive back Matt Myers, who is at Georgetown (Ky.).

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OCC-O HIO D IVISION

Reynoldsburg

Raiders to atone for disappointing ’14 By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Reynoldsburg High School football coach Buddy White has what he believes is an appropriate word to describe what he and his team experienced last season: Crap. With a teachers’ strike hindering the focus of his players and limiting the contact some of his coaches were able to have, the Raiders lost their first three games and never recovered. They lost seven of their first eight before closing the season with back-to-back wins to finish 3-7 overall and 3-4 in the OCC-Ohio Division. After the season, White picked several new assistants and a new conditioning coach. He also has attempted to instill the attitude that this season represents a fresh start. The fact that so many players expected to have key roles this fall were on the field when Reynoldsburg beat Newark 3310 and Groveport 41-14 to close the season might be the biggest positive. “Last year was tough, but the great thing is we played a lot of young kids and they’re all back,” White said. “They’re all in one accord. They’re interested in putting last year behind them, and we’ve got probably more depth than we’ve had since I’ve been here.” A 36-35 double-overtime loss to New Albany on the Thursday night of opening week a year ago seemed to create a “hangover” effect, according to White. Although the Raiders beat Grove City 20-10 in week four of the regular season – on the same day that more than 100 Reynoldsburg students and par-

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At a glance

Senior running back Cameron Young said the attitude around the program has changed since the Raiders went 3-7 a year ago. “It’s just a whole different vibe this year.” RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

ents joined their picketing teachers – the season had taken a turn the program couldn’t overcome. The Raiders open against New Albany (Aug. 28) and also will play Middletown (Sept. 11) again in week three, but St. Charles (Sept. 4) has replaced Hilliard Bradley on the schedule. What also has changed, according to senior running back Cameron Young, is the attitude throughout the locker room. “Our freshman year we were undefeated, so we do have a lot of motivation,” Young said. “It’s just a whole different vibe this year. We’re doing some things we haven’t done before. All of our seniors are leading better this year.”

OFFENSE

The Raiders return several skill position players, including senior Cameron Young, who scored five touchdowns and was the leading rusher with 540 yards. Junior Nathan Barko will start at quarterback after seeing action in four games a year ago, and senior Amos Paasewe

returns at running back after rushing for 256 yards and one touchdown. Joe Cooper Jr., whose father is a former Ohio State player serving as one of White’s assistants, should lead the wide receivers. Senior Martee Morse is another returning receiver, and Marion Organ is a speedy option as a sophomore. Seniors Darius Dunning and Keevin Seyfried should lead an offensive line that also will feature sophomores Joe Boggs and Elijah Ratliff. Ashton Dulin, who is playing for Malone, finished with 896 all-purpose yards spread among rushing, receiving and returns. Conner McCloud, who is playing for Capital, passed for 844 yards and eight touchdowns and rushed for two scores. Christian Eubanks, who was a second-team all-league offensive lineman, is playing for St. Francis (Pa.). “(Barko’s) had an incredible offseason,” White said. “This is the most confidence I’ve had in a quarterback. We’ve got three different schemes and we’re going to spread it out. One of the things I was (upset) about from last

year was that we’d get it in the red zone and weren’t getting points.”

DEFENSE

Senior lineman Mark Gooden is a Northwestern recruit who will lead the defense after finishing with 34 tackles and five tackles for loss. Senior Chris Tudor (31 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss) and Dunning are others on the line, while senior Nigel Chatman should lead the linebacking corps. Expected to join Cooper in the secondary are junior Sam Cooper, who had 17.5 tackles last season. Dulin, a defensive back who had six interceptions and was first-team all-league, might be the toughest player to replace because of his play-making abilities, according to White.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Cole Mathias is expected to do the punting and kicking after missing all of last season with an injury. He won the kicking job during the preseason last fall but went down with an injury the week of the Raiders’ opener.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Nathan Barko (jr., 6-1, 175), Malik Jones (sr.), Justin Henry (so.) Running backs: Nigel Chatman (sr., 6-0, 250), *Amos Paasewe (sr., 5-9, 200), *Cameron Young (sr., 6-0, 195), Tyler Fredrick (jr., 5-10, 180), Todd Hammond (jr.), Jamal Collier (so.), Desmond Cooper (fr., 6-1, 195) Receivers: Grant Brobeck (sr., 5-11, 190), *Joe Cooper Jr. (sr., 6-5, 185), *Martee Morse (sr., 6-3, 160), Jordan Hay (jr., 6-3, 180), Justice Landers (jr., 5-11, 175), Marion Organ (so., 6-0, 180) Tight ends: *Mark Gooden (sr., 6-1, 220), Tyler Britton (jr., 6-3, 215)) Linemen: *Darius Dunning (sr., 6-1, 250), *Keevin Seyfried (sr., 5-11, 235), Blake Sissoko (sr., 6-2, 265), Alex Woodward (sr., 5-11, 235), Tion Benjamin (jr., 6-3, 300), Colin Dwenger (jr., 6-3, 310), *Joe Boggs (so., 6-4, 255), *Elijah Ratliff (so., 6-2, 240) Defense Linemen: *Dunning, *Gooden, Chris Tudor (sr., 61, 255), Tion Benjamin (jr., 6-

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28................at New Albany Sept. 4 ..................at St. Charles Sept. 11..............vs. Middletown *Sept. 18...............vs. Grove City *Sept. 25 ............at Pick. Central *Oct. 2......................at Gahanna *Oct. 9......vs. Pickerington North *Oct. 15.................vs. Lancaster *Oct. 23 .....................at Newark *Oct. 30 .................vs. Groveport 2014 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 3-4 OCC-Ohio) New Albany ........L, 36-35 (2 OT) Hilliard Bradley .............L, 21-17 Middletown ..................L, 35-20 *Grove City ..................W, 20-10 *Pickerington Central ....L, 23-13 *Gahanna .....................L, 37-14 *Pickerington North.........L, 42-7 *Lancaster....................L, 38-10 *Newark ......................W, 33-10 *Groveport ...................W, 41-14 *League contest INSIDE THE RAIDERS •Coach: Buddy White, fifth season •Top players: Nathan Barko (QB), Nigel Chatman (RB/LB), Joe Cooper Jr. (WR/DB), Darius Dunning (OL/DL), Mark Gooden (TE/DL), Amos Paasewe (RB/DB), Keevin Seyfried (OL) and Cameron Young (RB/DB) •Key losses: Gary Boggs (RB/LB), Adrian Bridges (WR/DB), Andrew Callender (WR/DB), Jacob Cicak (RB/LB/P), Ashton Dulin (WR/DB), Christian Eubanks (OL/DL), Shayne Lyons (QB) and Conner McCloud (QB)

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2, 330), Britton, Boggs, Ratliff Linebackers: *Chatman, Keshon Buckner (sr., 6-1, 225), Donte Haley (sr., 6-0, 230), Chris Strickland (jr., 6-1, 235), Blaine Wagner (jr., 5-10, 195), Boggs Secondary: Cooper, Sam Cooper (jr.), *Cole Goodwin (jr.), *Cameron Hines (jr.), *Savon Pullie (jr.) Special teams Kicker: *Cole Mathias (sr., 6-2, 170) Punter: *Mathias Returners: *Paasewe Long snapper: *Brobeck (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com

TOP PLAYERS FROM >> 4 ted to Purdue from the 2016 class. Westerville South junior Marcus Williamson already has committed to Ohio State from the 2017 class. Another FBS recruit in the secondary is Upper Arlington’s Tyler Speaight, a transfer from Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary who has committed to Toledo.

Westerville North’s Anthony D’Andrea, Westerville South’s Daylan Haynie, Watkins Memorial’s Cameron Johnson, Big Walnut’s Isaac Lucas, Centennial’s Tyler Patterson, Marysville’s Tyler Stiers, Granville’s Travis Wollenburg and Ready’s Tristin Siemer are other standouts. •SPECIAL TEAMS – The first- and second-team all-district kickers in Divi-

sion I, Gahanna’s Tanner Harding and Westerville Central’s Alex Barnhart, are among the returnees. Devon McMillin is entering his fourth season as Pickerington Central’s kicker, and Olentangy’s Jacob Bell was second-team all-district in Division II. Other area returning kickers include Big Walnut’s Tommy Fleser, Hartley’s Ben Hawk and New Albany’s Joey

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Rolwing. Eastmoor’s Quincy Colvin, Watkins Memorial’s Corey Hare, UA’s Danny Logan, Westerville North’s Andrew Malick, Utica’s Mitchell Marston, Coffman’s Caleb Stoneburner and Bradley’s Brady Whittekind should be among the area’s top punters. julrey@thisweeknews.com

August 27, 2015

OCC-OHIO D IVISION

Lancaster

Building depth is key for Gales to succeed

By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Senior quarterback Mason Blancett is looking to post his third consecutive 1,000-yard passing season. He was 90-for-175 for 1,110 yards last season. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKSPORTS

LIONS FROM >> 9

of 2015 graduate Blake Baker, who finished with 109 tackles and was special mention alldistrict. Marcum (LB) and two-way senior linemen Austin Torr and Nick Vernon are other key players.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Tanner Harding, who made 11 field goals and 30 extra points to earn first-team all-district honors, will be the kicker for the third year in a row. Senior Camaron Cheeseman will compete in the Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl on Jan. 3, 2016, as a long-snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Mason Blancett (sr., 5-10, 161), Jestin Thompson (sr., 6-2, 185), Taylor Nisbet (jr., 5-7, 142), David Miler (so., 5-11, 150) Running backs: *Derek Marcum (sr., 5-11, 225), Kent Johnson (sr., 5-10, 165), Bradon Barker (jr., 5-9, 185) Receivers: *Jake Chobany (sr., 5-8, 150), *Kevin Smith (sr., 6-0, 170), *Elijah Whiteside (sr., 6-2, 160), *Terone Gordon (jr., 5-9, 160), Khalil Straughter (jr., 5-7, 145) Tight ends: Jeremiah Campbell (sr., 6-5, 240), Jonathon Cooper (sr., 6-4, 235), Cael Baker (jr., 6-0, 250) Linemen: Zachary Boque (sr., 6-4, 253), *Avery Byers (sr., 6-2, 245), Camaron Cheeseman (sr., 6-2, 206), *Austin Torr (sr., 6-3, 225), *Nick Vernon (sr., 6-3, 292), *Donovan White (sr., 6-4, 232) Defense Linemen: *Cooper, *Torr, *Vernon, Chris Kasubinski (so., 5-8, 210) Linebackers: *Baker, *Marcum, Jared Payton (sr., 5-8, 200), Nathaniel Russell (sr., 57, 165), Nathan Senties (sr., 61, 195), Tremayne Smith (sr., 5-9, 160), Barker, Alex Metz (jr., 5-8, 175) Secondary: *Chobany, *Kevin Smith, Gordon, August 27, 2015

Derek Marcum will start at running back and linebacker for the Lions. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.........at Westerville Central Sept. 4 ..........vs. Westerville South Sept. 11.......vs. Brantford (Ontario) St. John’s College *Sept. 18 ...................at Groveport *Sept. 25 .....................vs. Newark *Oct. 2 ................vs. Reynoldsburg *Oct. 9 .......................at Lancaster *Oct. 16 ...................vs. Grove City *Oct. 23.......vs. Pickerington North *Oct. 29......at Pickerington Central 2014 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 6-1 OCC-Ohio) Huber Heights Wayne.........L, 40-0 Westerville South .............L, 34-17 Upper Arlington ...............W, 41-14 *Groveport ......................W, 43-19 *Newark ...........................W, 45-0 *Reynoldsburg ................W, 37-14 *Lancaster......................W, 41-10

*Grove City .......................W, 10-0 *Pickerington North.........W, 27-24 *Pickerington Central .........L, 34-6 PLAYOFFS Pickerington Central.............L, 7-0 *League contest INSIDE THE LIONS •Coach: Bruce Ward, second season •Top players: Cael Baker (TE/LB), Bradon Barker (RB/LB), Mason Blancett (QB), Jake Chobany (WR/DB), Jonathon Cooper (TE/DL), Derek Marcum (RB/LB), Austin Torr (OL/DL), Donovan White (OL/DL) and Elijah Whiteside (WR/DB) •Key losses: Blake Baker (TE/LB/LS), Jenisys Battle (WR), Brayden Callihan (DB), Brad Coburn (LB), David Cooper (OL/DL),Vasean Davis (RB), Carter Hall (OL) and Marq Williams (DL)

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Returners: *Gordon, Raheem Smith (jr., 5-6, 147) Special teams *Raheem Smith, *Straughter Kicker: *Tanner Harding Long snapper: *Cheeseman (sr., 5-7, 169) (*Denotes projected starter) Punter: *Chad Barrick (sr., 6-5, 200), Harding julrey@thisweeknews.com

The Lancaster High School football team is hoping to take a page out of the book that its 2015 graduating class authored last season. Camaraderie helped the Golden Gales to finish 7-3 overall and 5-2 in the OCCOhio Division. “Seniors are always the key,” said coach Rob Carpenter, who will begin his 18th season when Lancaster opens by playing host to DeSales on Aug. 28. “You always hope to have good numbers in your senior class. But it’s not the seniors I’m worried about. I’m worried about the sophomores. “We’re the kind of team that sophomores will have to help us throughout the course of the season. Those are the guys we’re looking for to step up. At Lancaster, it used to be one class could carry a team, but not anymore. It hasn’t been like that in a decade.” The Gales have 16 seniors on the 62-player roster, but senior tight end Dylan Sharp is out for the season with an injury and senior defensive end Evan Highley missed the second scrimmage against Westerville South on Aug. 15 because of injury. While Carpenter said at last six starting positions were still up for grabs entering the final scrimmage, he was more concerned with determining the status of potential backups on the depth chart. “The real battles are at backups,” he said. “We need to develop depth. We need our juniors and sophomores to step up, especially on special teams, or (our two-way players) will get fatigued fairly quickly, and that’s demoralizing.” Another item that Carpenter said has concerned him throughout the preseason is the team’s apparent lack of enthusiasm. “Coming off a winning season, you would think our enthusiasm during two-a-days would be better than if we were coming off a losing season or a .500-season,” Carpenter said. “It’s something we’ve talked about. We’ve improved a lot during two-a-days, but our enthusiasm for each other hasn’t. But that will change.”

OFFENSE

Although a starting quarterback had not been determined through two scrimmages, Lancaster has several good pieces in its wing-T offense. Senior Ryan Fitchpatrick returns at fullback and classmate Drew Smith has been impressive at one halfback position. The other backfield spot is expected to be filled by

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At a glance *Reynoldsburg ................W, 38-10 *Grove City .....................W, 21-14 *Newark .........................W, 48-20 *League contest INSIDE THE GALES •Coach: Rob Carpenter, 18th season •Top players: J.D. Arbuckle (QB), Josh Cook (LB), Eric Deluse (LB), Noah Dryden (QB/DB), Ryan Edwards (LB), Ryan Fitchpatrick (FB), Zac McNeal (DT), Luke Sheridan (OL/DL), Drew Smith (WB/SS), Kris Sullivan (LB),Ashton Walker (WR/CB) and Will Young (QB) •Key losses: Alex Butsko (QB), Josh Cook (LB), Jacob Croston (OL/DL), Christian Herold (OL), Jerry King (WB), Adam Madison (WR), Jack McNeal (DL), Kyler Messner (OL) and Harrison Taylor (WB/DB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .......................vs. DeSales Sept. 4 ..............vs. Dublin Jerome Sept. 11................at Walnut Ridge *Sept. 18...vs. Pickerington Central *Sept. 25 ......at Pickerington North *Oct. 2 .......................at Groveport *Oct. 9 .......................vs. Gahanna *Oct. 16 ...............at Reynoldsburg *Oct. 23.....................at Grove City *Oct. 30 .......................vs. Newark 2014 RESULTS (7-3 overall, 5-2 OCC-Ohio) Logan ...................W, 43-42 (2 OT) Lakota East........................L, 28-7 Canal Winchester ............W, 36-16 *Pickerington Central .......L, 27-12 *Pickerington North.........W, 27-26 *Groveport ........................W, 35-0 *Gahanna ........................L, 41-10

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sophomore Shea Goss. “Fitchpatrick has stepped up and we need him to be able to break tackles in the middle,” Carpenter said. “He’s getting better and has had a good camp. He’s very strong, runs low and is looking better. Drew Smith also can really make things happen out there.” Senior J.D. Arbuckle and juniors Noah Dryden and Will Young are competing to start at quarterback. “The position is still wide open, although Dryden is in the front seat right now,” Carpenter said. “But we really rely on his defense, so I’m not sure how long we can do that.” The Gales could end up using more than one quarterback per game, the same way they will rotate offensive and defensive linemen. “We want to continue with our passing game, but if it’s going to come with interceptions, then we’ll go back to running the ball,” Carpenter said. Expected to start as receivers and slotbacks are senior Ty Spires and juniors Tyler WoodWoodruff and Justin Wolfe. The starting line should include senior Dillon Denault and juniors Zeb Armstrong, Levi Brown, Luke Sheridan and Alex Shook.

Deluse does,” Carpenter said. “He’s great defensively and he also does can punt and kick and will help us at running back. Smith, our safety will be a three-year starter. But Smith and Dryden are also keys on offense, so that’s why we need to develop some depth. “We have a lot of experience on defense, which is good because the keys for us are blocking, tackling and special teams. We’ve got a lot of young guys on the offensive line and our special teams are still up in the air. So we’re going to need our defense to stop the run, get to the ball and gang-tackle like

DEFENSE

Good Luck, lancaster

The defense returned eight starters, including senior linebackers Eric Deluse and Ryan Edwards. Highley and Denault are back at ends in the 4-3 scheme, with Sheridan at tackle. Smith is a leader in the secondary and will again be joined by Dryden and senior Ashton Walker. Junior Kito Akins will fill the other spot. “Eric Deluse does what Eric

GALES >> 34

FOOTBALL

IS LIKE LIFE — it requires

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Page 13

OCC-OHIO D IVISION

Groveport Madison

Cruisers hope improvement brings wins By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Groveport Madison High School football team will be looking for more significant and sustained improvement this season when the Cruisers open Aug. 28 at Canal Winchester. Although the Cruisers have been more competitive in recent seasons, they haven’t produced many victories. Groveport finished 2-8 last fall after back-to-back 1-9 records. Its last winning season was 2010 when running back Le’Veon Bell led the way before going on to Michigan State and then the Pittsburgh Steelers. “The only way to get over the hump, and to get this pro-

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gram back to where we want it, is to win more games,” thirdyear coach Bryan Schoonover said. “It’s good to be more competitive, but at some point you’ve got to win games. The improvement has to be consistent and sustainable and you do that by winning. “We haven’t talked about our tradition to these kids since last season. We want them to focus one play at a time. That’s how you get sustained effort and focus, which leads to improvement. Good play or bad play, our motto the past year has been, ‘Next Play is Coming.’” According to Schoonover, competing in the OCC-Ohio Division has kept the players from recognizing the improvement in the program. “It’s a very difficult league, so you can make a lot of improvement and still lose, which is what I think we’ve done these past two years,” Schoonover said. Groveport won two of its first three last fall, beating South 49-0 and Westerville North 1413 after losing to Canal Winchester 28-19 in the opener. In those non-league games, the Cruisers averaged 27.3 points and allowed 13.7. The Cruisers then went 0-7 in league play, getting outscored 30.1-12.3 per game. In the OCC realignment that will take effect in the 2016-17 school year, Groveport will compete in the Northeast Division along with Big Walnut, Canal Winchester, Franklin Heights, New Albany and Newark. For its final season in the OCC-Ohio, Groveport has installed a spread offense and will operate primarily out of the shotgun. “We’re trying to put our kids in situations where they can

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win, and we think the spread fits our personnel best at this moment,” Schoonover said. “We’ve got some kids who can play in space and they’re really enjoying this.”

OFFENSE

Junior Seneca Cameron and sophomore Jacob Huffman are competing to start at quarterback, although both will get plenty of action. “They give us different dynamics,” Schoonover said. “Seneca is more mobile and Huffman is a pocket passer with a good release. Dezuan Allen returns at running back, and Corey Newman, Brymar Payne and Ronrico Richards all will get opportunities as well. “I’m impressed with all four of our backs,” Schoonover said. “Newman is a three-year starter on defense who is playing running back for the first time. Allen is shifty and dependable

and we may use him in the slot. Payne is a move-in from Springfield and he’s powerful and squares his shoulders. Richards is a flat-out athlete with size and power at 6-foot2, 220 (pounds).” Isiah Atekins, Tanner Grubb and Tré Charles-Martin will fill the receiver and slotback positions. Cryill Montgomery, Robert Taylor and Charles Wade will add depth and be in rotations. Nate Brookman, Robbie Coburn Dejuan McClure and Nick Perdue return on the line and will be joined by Tré Stevens-Davis.

DEFENSE

Newman and Da’Quan Mayle will be third-year starters at linebacker in the Cruisers’ 4-3 alignment, alongside Jayson Little. Elijah Smith is expected to lead the line, along with Richards, Malik Jolley and

Rafael Rhone. Jalen Foster and C.J. Towns return in the secondary and will be joined by Chase Cole and Paul Robinson. “Mayle and Smith have had outstanding camps and Towns and Foster bring experience to the secondary and will be counted on to make big plays,” Schoonover said. “We’ve got a veteran defense and high expectations.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Seneca Cameron (jr., 6-0, 210), Jacob Huffman (so., 6-1, 175) Running backs: Dezuan Allen (sr., 5-7, 170), Corey Newman (jr., 5-10, 195), Brymar Payne (jr., 5-10, 220), Ronrico Richards (jr., 6-2, 215) Receivers: *Isiah Atekins (so., 5-10, 160), *Tanner Grubb (sr., 5-11, 160), *Tré CharlesMartin (sr., 6-3, 180), Cryill Montgomery (jr., 5-8, 155),

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Robert Taylor (jr., 6-4, 235), Charles Wade (so., 5-7, 145) Linemen: *Nate Brookman (sr., 5-11, 250), *Robbie Coburn (sr., 5-11, 240), *Dejuan

CRUISERS >> 41

Wildcats look to take next step

IS LIKE LIFE —

— VINCE LOMBARDI

Groveport’s Dezuan Allen (center) celebrates a tackle during a scrimmage Aug. 14. Allen also is among those who will play running back. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .......at Canal Winchester Sept. 4 ........................vs. South Sept. 11......vs. Westerville North *Sept. 18 ................vs. Gahanna *Sept. 25 ...............at Grove City *Oct. 2 ..................vs. Lancaster *Oct. 9.......................at Newark *Oct. 16 ................at Pick. North *Oct. 23 ............vs. Pick. Central *Oct. 30............at Reynoldsburg 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 0-7 OCC-Ohio) Canal Winchester..........L, 28-19 South ............................W, 49-0 Westerville North...........L 14-13 *Gahanna......................L 43-19 *Grove City...................L, 27-20 *Lancaster .....................L, 35-0 *Newark.........................L, 10-7 *Pickerington North .......L 28-19 *Pickerington Central.......L 27-7 *Reynoldsburg ..............L 41-14 *League contest INSIDE THE CRUISERS •Coach: Bryan Schoonover, third season •Top players: Dezuan Allen (RB), Jalen Foster (DB), Da’Quan Mayle (LB), Corey Newman (RB/LB), Nick Perdue (OL), Elijah Smith (DL), and C.J. Towns (DB) •Key losses: Jacob Dalton (DL), Markel Davis (WR/CB),Wesley Fearing (QB), Jordan Garrettson (DL), Derrell Gibbs (QB), Malcolm Solack (C) and D’Lante Smith (FB)

Newark

FOOTBALL

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ByAARON BLANKENSHIP three games,” Kopachy said. THISWEEKSPORTS.COM “We started our climb last year with our varsity team improvNewark High School foot- ing its record and our freshball coach Mike Kopachy man team going 8-2. We’re in knows what it takes to turn the process of improving all of around a struggling program, our facilities, including updatand he believes he has the ing our locker rooms, getting Wildcats on track. nice new uniforms and adding Kopachy, who previously turf to our stadium. rebuilt the programs at Salem “We’ve got all of the right and Berlin Center Western ingredients in place for this Reserve, said the Wildcats have program to really explode in made bigger strides than last the right direction.” year’s record would indicate. Kopachy has been in this Newark went 2-8 overall in position before. Kopachy’s first season after During his three-year tenure going 1-9 in 2013 and 5-55 at Salem from 2009-11, over the previous six seasons. Kopachy led the Quakers to a “No one is happy with going 22-11 record and the only two 2-8, but realistically we were playoff berths in team history a lot more competitive last year after they had gone 0-10 in than we were in previous years, 2008 and hadn’t had a winning and we could have gone 5-5 if season since 2005. we would’ve made a couple Kopachy led Western more plays in each of our first Reserve to its first playoff vicFRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

tory in 2006 and a 30-32 record in six seasons from 2002-07 after the Blue Devils had gone 12-48 over the previous six seasons and had endured 19 consecutive losing seasons before his arrival. Newark opens Aug. 28 at Zanesville and begins OCCOhio Division play Sept. 18 at home against Pickerington North. The Wildcats, who finished sixth (2-5) in the league last year behind champion Pickerington Central (7-0), gradually have learned to adopt a winning attitude, according to senior left tackle/defensive end Vinnie Pancini. “The longer coach Kopachy is here, the more we’ll be able to turn our program around,” Pancini said. “Coach Kopachy has helped us begin to create a winning culture where we

are no longer shocked when something good happens for our team.”

OFFENSE

Eight starters have returned in the Wildcats’ shotgun-spread offense, including junior quarterback Kaleb Jarrett, senior wide receiver Hayden Thacker and junior wide receivers Michael Pound and Taveon Swift. Four starting offensive linemen also are back in Pancini, junior Austin Combs and seniors Taylor Lehoe and Jayme Randolph. “Our offensive line got better and better last year and our line is going to be our strength,” Kopachy said. “We’re still searching for a running back who can carry the ball 20 to 25

WILDCATS >> 41 August 27, 2015

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OCC-O HIO D IVISION

Grove City

Dawgs expecting to makes progress By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

season, he realized there would be a learning curve for his players. When coach Mike Lanza He’s hoping that with a year took over the Grove City High behind them, the Dawgs will School football program last continue to progress and

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improve on last season’s 2-8 overall record. Grove City went 1-6 in the OCC-Ohio Division to finish seventh behind champion Pickerington Central (70). Six of the eight losses were by 10 points or fewer. “They understand the terminology,” Lanza said. “That’s the key thing. When you have a change of terminology, a change in coaching when it’s coming from outside the staff that was there before, there’s always going to be a change in terminology. The kids are a little bit further along than they were last year.” Grove City opens Aug. 28 at Hilliard Davidson. The Dawgs won Lanza’s first game last year, defeating Davidson 6-0 at home. The Dawgs are looking to replace 23 players lost to graduation, including Peyton Bowyer, who was named firstteam all-league and secondteam all-district in Division I. He began the season at running back, but played quarterback the final three games and finished with 1,095 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns on 272 carries. With Bowyer gone, a quarterback competition has high-

2015

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lighted the preseason, with seniors Jeremy Ford and Jordin Brown vying for the starting spot. Lanza expects Central to again be the team to beat in the league, with Gahanna, his former coaching stop, also in the mix. Grove City plays host to Central on Oct. 9 and visits Gahanna on Oct. 16. “The goal for this team is just do better than last year and get this program going in the right direction,” senior running back Xavier Moore said. “We’re on the upside right now, so hopefully we can keep it going.”

OFFENSE

Grove City went to a pistol formation late last season and Lanza expects a similar scheme this year. When Brown isn’t playing quarterback, he will be valuable at wide receiver, Lanza said. “Those two guys (Brown and Ford) are battling it out,” Lanza said. “Competition is a good thing, especially at that position.” A top threat on offense should be senior tight end Brandon Chapman, a Wake Forest recruit. “We’re going to be doing a lot of things to try to get him the ball,” Lanza said. Moore returns after rushing for 315 yards and a touchdown on 55 carries. “I’m hoping to do a lot of good things,” Moore said. “Our team is going to be a lot better and looking forward to hopefully making the playoffs this year.” Lanza is hoping for a balanced effort in the backfield, with seniors Cameron Cormany and Gavin Rodgers and

Brandon Chapman (left), a Wake Forest recruit, will play tight end and on the defensive line. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

juniors Ethan Hall and Dylan Schoonover also contributing. Top receivers should be Brown, senior Nathan Hawk and junior Kyle Jordan. Lanza said starting roles on the offensive line were being determined in the preseason, with several players vying for time. Those candidates include seniors Cameron Fleming, Derek Radel, Tre Morgan and Tim Sullivan and juniors Troy Plageman and Eric Spohn.

“We’re trying to find the best combination and so we’re flipping guys around a little bit,” Lanza said. “We have guys learning one and two positions because we’re trying to find the right chemistry.”

DEFENSE

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OCC-OHIO D IVISION

DAWGS FROM >> 16 last season. The line includes Morgan, a returning starter, at tackle along with Chapman, Sullivan and juniors Josh Burgett and Zach Waddle. Key linebackers are Radel, senior Daniel Barnes and junior Ethan Hall.

Brown will be in the secondary with Cormany, Ford, Moore, Jordan and Schoonover. “I love the challenge of playing both ways,” Moore said. “I just have to make sure I’m in the best shape that I can be so I can help my team on both sides of the ball and hopefully get some Ws.”

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...........at Hilliard Davidson Sept. 4................vs. Walnut Ridge Sept. 11........vs. Westerville South *Sept. 18.............at Reynoldsburg *Sept. 25 .................vs. Groveport *Oct. 2 .........................at Newark *Oct. 9......vs. Pickerington Central *Oct. 16......................at Gahanna *Oct. 23 ...................vs. Lancaster *Oct. 30 .......at Pickerington North 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-6 OCC-Ohio) Hilliard Davidson ................W, 6-0 Findlay............................L, 27-25 Westerville South ..............L, 27-8 *Reynoldsburg ................L, 20-10 *Groveport .....................W, 27-20 *Newark .........................L, 30-20

*Pickerington Central ........L, 20-0 *Gahanna .........................L, 10-0 *Lancaster ......................L, 21-14 *Pickerington North...........L, 13-9 *League contest INSIDE THE DAWGS •Coach: Mike Lanza, second season •Top players: Jordin Brown (QB/RB/WR/DB), Brandon Chapman (TE/DL), Cameron Cormany (RB/DB), Jeremy Ford (QB/DB), Xavier Moore (RB/DB), Dylan Schoonover (RB/DB) and Tim Sullivan (OL/DL) •Key losses: Peyton Bowyer (RB/LB), Ryan Grooms (RB/LB), Jacob Minerd (OL/DL), Vinnie Sapp (RB/LB), Brandon Skeen (OL/DL) and Austin Treneff (OL/DL)

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Lanza also has seen a competition in the preseason with special teams, with senior Jamie June a contender to kick and punt. Brown, Cormany, Moore and Schoonover are return threats. Junior Ryan Gravett is a leading contender to handle the long-snapping duties.

Defense Linemen: Chapman, Fleming, *Morgan, *Sullivan, Burgett, Plageman, Zach Waddle (jr., 6-5, 210), Dane Whittier (jr., 6-0, 270), Jacob Hamilton (so., 6-2, 295) Linebackers: *Daniel Barnes (sr., 5-6, 185), Radel, Rodgers,

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Offense Quarterbacks: Jordin Brown (sr., 6-0, 185), Jeremy Ford (sr., 6-1, 195) Running backs: Cameron Cormany (sr., 5-11, 187), Gavin Rodgers (sr., 6-0, 180), Ethan Hall (jr., 5-10, 185), *Xavier Moore (jr., 5-8, 190), Dylan Schoonover (jr., 5-7, 172) Receivers: Brown, Nathan Hawk (sr., 6-1, 180), Kyle Jordan (jr., 5-11, 150) Tight end: *Brandon Chapman (sr., 6-6, 251), Josh Burgett (jr., 6-5, 230) Linemen: Ryan Cooper (sr., 6-3, 210), *Cameron Fleming (sr., 6-0, 230), *Tre Morgan (sr., 6-3, 240), *Derek Radel (sr., 6-4, 200), *Tim Sullivan (sr., 6-2, 235), Troy Plageman (jr., 5-9, 195), Eric Spohn (jr., 6-0, 220)

Ryan Gravett (jr., 6-0, 170), Hall, Mark Bowman (so., 5-11, 210) Secondary: *Brown, *Cormany, Ford, Moore, Jordan, Schoonover Special teams Kicker: *Jamie June (sr., 56, 135), Moore

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OCC-CENTRAL DIVISION

Spotlight

Comets face heightened expectations By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Central Crossing High School football coach Chris Harr and his players hear the talk in the community. After last year’s storybook season, which was capped by the team’s first postseason appearance, expectations have never been higher. The Comets, however, aren’t getting caught up in the hype. They’re playing it cool as they prepare to tackle the challenge ahead. “The expectations have changed a little bit,” said Harr, who is in his sixth season. “There are some people who called last season a fluke and then there are other teams that have put a target on our back. It’s like, ‘We don’t want to get beat by this team again.’ “Our expectations are let’s take this one game at a time and let’s be in every game. Let’s win games and see where we are as the season goes. We definitely have a lot of goals.” The Comets are following up a season in which they finished 7-4 overall and 5-2 in the OCC-Central Division, the best marks since the school opened in 2002. Their third-place league finish was the highest in program history. A 50-13 loss to Cincinnati St. Xavier in the first round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs wasn’t the finish the Comets wanted, but the run they made in the regular sea-

son definitely was noticed. Central Crossing kicks off the season in the area by playing host to Pickerington North on Aug. 27, the first time the team has played on a Thursday. There are now 110 players in the program, including 40 freshmen, compared to the 70 to 80 players it averaged in previous seasons. With 17 starters back, including several key athletes at the skill positions, Harr believes there’s reason for the optimism. The top returnees are junior quarterback Deric Williamson and senior wide receiver Noah Stephens, who should lead Central Crossing’s spread offense. Last season, Williamson passed for 1,261 yards with 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and rushed for 623 yards and five scores on 132 carries. He took over the starting job in a 21-20 overtime win at perennial power Hilliard Davidson in week five. Harr is just as optimistic about his defense, as senior inside linebacker Rob Fusner and senior tackles Ryan Peoples (6-foot-2, 270 pounds) and Kameron Teacher (6-1, 260) should lead that unit. “There’s talk in the community about how good we can be and how good we are, but there’s also a few doubters,” Fusner said. “We’re out here to prove (the doubters) wrong.” Harr had a sense the Comets

Returning to playoffs is primary focus By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

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of the Year honors with Springboro’s Ryan Wilhite, Lorain’s Dave McFarland and Hudson’s Ron Wright. In the OCC-Central last season, Central Crossing finished behind Coffman (7-0) and Olentangy Liberty (6-1) and ahead of Davidson (4-3) and Upper Arlington (3-4). Harr hopes his team challenges for the league title, but he expects the Comets will receive every opponent’s best effort coming off last year’s performance. The Comets earned their first wins against Davidson (21-20, overtime) and UA (35-21), but

With 17 returning starters, including several at the skill positions, the Central Crossing High School football team expects to build on last season’s program-best effort. The Comets went 7-4 overall and earned their first postseason berth, losing at Cincinnati St. Xavier 50-13 in the first round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs. Central Crossing finished third in the OCC-Central Division at 5-2, behind Dublin Coffman (7-0) and Olentangy Liberty (6-1). The overall and league records and placement in the league were three of the numerous records set by the Comets in a breakthrough season. “Obviously, when you get a taste of the playoffs that’s going to be a goal from here on out and we’ve never won an OCC championship and we play in one of the best OCC divisions,” sixth-year coach Chris Harr said. The Comets open at home against Pickerington North on Aug. 27. It will be the first time Central Crossing will play on a Thursday. Harr believes his team will have balance on both sides of the ball. Junior quarterback Deric Williamson and senior wide receiver Noah Stephens look to lead the team’s spread

EXPECTATIONS >> 31

COMETS >> 31

Noah Stephens and the Comets are determined to prove that last season wasn’t a fluke when they went 7-4 and earned their first playoff berth. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

were in for something special, as the nucleus of his team has played together since they were members of Central Crossing’s youth program. “Everything is going the way we want it to right now,” Harr said. “We’ve been preparing for this year it seems like forever. This is the first group that went through the youth program into the (middle school) and then as freshmen. They had a lot to do with the success last year as well.” Harr was recognized for last season’s success, as he shared league Coach of the Year honors with Dublin Coffman’s Mark Crabtree and Westland’s Kyle Goebbel and state Coach

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At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 27 ....vs. Pickerington North Sept. 4.........at Westerville North Sept. 11...............vs. Beechcroft *Sept. 18.....at Olentangy Liberty *Sep. 25 .....vs. Hilliard Davidson *Oct. 2 ...........at Upper Arlington *Oct. 9 ...........at Dublin Coffman *Oct. 16.........vs. Thomas Worth. *Oct. 23 .................at Marysville *Oct. 30..................vs. Westland 2014 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 5-2 OCC-Central) Mount Vernon ..............W, 58-27 Beechcroft .....................L, 26-7 Linden-McKinley............W, 44-8 *Olentangy Liberty..........L, 30-8 *Davidson...........W, 21-20 (3OT) *Upper Arlington ..........W, 35-21 *Dublin Coffman ...........L, 41-21 *Thomas Worthington ....W, 42-0 *Marysville ....................W, 21-7 *Westland......................W, 22-7 PLAYOFFS Cincinnati St. Xavier......L, 50-13 *League contest INSIDE THE COMETS •Coach: Chris Harr, sixth season •Top players: Colter Bass (RB), Rob Fusner (LB), Christian Miranda (WR), Ryan Peoples (DL), Antonio Quintana (B), Noah Stephens (WR), Kameron Teacher (DL) and Deric Williamson (QB) •Key losses: Shane Maxey (DL), Austyn Palmer (OL), Mason Peck (LB), Ian Slater (RB) and Ethan Swank (LB)

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OCC-CENTRAL D IVISION

Dublin Coffman

’Rocks eager to test newcomers By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

From the outside, this fall’s edition of the Dublin Coffman High School football team looks to be a juggernaut, but 15thyear coach Mark Crabtree would dispute that assessment. The Shamrocks have three players who have made verbal commitments to major Division I college programs, but return only five starters – three on offense, two on defense. Senior quarterback Gunnar Hoak (6foot-4, 200 pounds) has committed to Kentucky, while senior offensive lineman Alex Gellerstedt (6-7, 273 pounds) says he is going to Penn State and senior linebacker Griffin Grady (6-2, 203) selected Wisconsin. “We have talent, but much of it’s not proven on Friday nights,” Crabtree said. “There are still a lot of unknown quantities, and we’re not going to know anything until game one. Scrimmages will help, but all we can do is go through reps and schedule the toughest practices that we can. We don’t have answers right now, and we won’t until we’re in the line of fire.” The Shamrocks finished 11-1 last sea-

son, losing to Huber Heights Wayne 4435 in the second round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs. They won the OCCCentral Division at 7-0 ahead of runnerup Olentangy Liberty (6-1). “There’s always tradition around here and high expectations,” said Hoak, who plans to enroll at Kentucky in January in order to participate in spring drills with the Wildcats. “We didn’t go as far as we wanted to in the postseason last year and we’re driven to go further (this fall).” Gellerstedt said the team might not have the experience returning that it had last season, but the Shamrocks have tradition that drives all of the players. “We need to have a good start and we have a lot of really good young guys,” Gellerstedt said. “We want to go out and make this a special season.” Crabtree said the players may be inexperienced at the varsity level, but they are aware of the expectations of playing football at Coffman. The program has reached the playoffs the last six seasons and 12 times since he became coach in 2001, missing the postseason only in 2005 and 2008. “The kids know they play in a good program and they feel like they have expectations to uphold,” said Crabtree, whose

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...................vs. Springfield Sept. 4 ................vs. Dublin Scioto Sept. 11........................at Fairfield *Sept. 18.........at Hilliard Davidson *Sept. 25..................vs. Marysville *Oct. 2.......at Thomas Worthington *Oct. 9............vs. Central Crossing *Oct. 16 ......................at Westland *Oct. 23 ........vs. Olentangy Liberty *Oct. 30.............at Upper Arlington 2014 RESULTS (11-1 overall, 7-0 OCC-Central) St. Charles......................W, 54-23 Dublin Scioto ....................W, 35-7 Canton McKinley...............W, 48-0 *Hilliard Davidson .............W, 24-9 *Marysville .......................W, 51-6 *Thomas Worthington........W, 52-0 *Central Crossing ............W, 41-21 *Westland.........................W, 48-7 *Olentangy Liberty ..........W, 52-24 *Upper Arlington..............W, 20-19

PLAYOFFS Hilliard Davidson.............W, 14-10 Huber Heights Wayne.......L, 44-35 *League contest INSIDE THE SHAMROCKS •Coach: Mark Crabtree, 15th season •Top players: Eric Bradford (WR/DB), Alex Gellerstedt (OL), Griffin Grady (LB), Stephen Headings (RB), Gunnar Hoak (QB), Joe Kendrick (DL), Isaac McKinney (LB), Brady Rothgeb (RB/WR/DB) and Caleb Stoneburner (WR/P) •Key losses: Evan Crabtree (OL), Drew DeNoble (DL), Chase Granlund (WR/DB/K), Jared Febus (LB), Josh Greenwalt (OL), Kyle Hogan (DL), Dre Kendrick (RB), Andrew Kraly (LB), Reagan Malas (DB), Kyle Marcinick (WR), Sam McCollum (OL), Shaun Rankin (WR), C.J. Saunders (WR/DB) and Corey Williams (OL)

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team opens Aug. 28 at home against Springfield. “They have to act and do things in a particular way. They know all of that. That’s part of being in a good, solid program and they understand that it is part of the deal.”

OFFENSE

The Shamrocks’ spread attack has three returning starters in Gellerstedt, Hoak and senior wide receiver Eric Bradford. Hoak was first-team all-state, district Player of the Year and ThisWeek Super 25 captain. He completed 174 of 267 passes (65.2 percent) for 2,572 yards with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. “We have a lot to get down with a new line and new running backs and receivers,” said Hoak, who also was second-team allleague. “We start from scratch every year, especially in the beginning. We’re working toward coming together as a team.” Coffman must replace running back Dre Kendrick, a 2015 graduate who rushed for 1,639 yards and 22 touchdowns on 232 carries. He was named second-team allstate, first-team all-district and was leagueco-Player of the Year. Another 2015 graduate, Kyle Marcinick,

Eric Bradford is one of only three returning starters on offense

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OCC-CENTRAL D IVISION

Upper Arlington

Move-ins should boost Bears’ playoff hopes By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

If the Upper Arlington High School football team returns to the playoffs for the first time since 2011, it probably will be thanks to a mix of homegrown and new talent. On top of the seven offensive starters the Golden Bears return from last year’s team that went 5-5 overall and 3-4 in the OCC-Central Division, UA got two solid move-ins in

seniors Tyrece Speaight (wide receiver/defensive back) and Vince Murdocco (quarterback). Speaight – who helped Akron St. Vincent-St. Mary win Division III state championships in 2012 and 2013 and reach a state semifinal a year ago— is a Toledo commit, while Murdocco previously played quarterback at Akron Hoban. Those additions, increased depth and one year in coach Joel Cutler’s system have the

Bears optimistic that they can get over the hump. Close losses to Dublin Coffman in each of the past two season finales – 20-19 last year and 17-14 in 2013 – knocked UA out of postseason contention after midseason struggles. The Bears finished 25th in Division I, Region 1, as the top 16 teams made the playoffs. “We’re excited about how things are progressing but it’s never good enough, not yet,” said Cutler, whose second sea-

son at UA begins Friday, Aug. 28, at Dublin Jerome. “(We have) another year under our belt in the strength-and-conditioning program. We are more physical. Overall as a team, we are not there yet, but we are getting there.” A three-game losing streak at midseason last year helped drop UA to fifth place in the OCC-Central at 3-4 behind champion Coffman (7-0). UA begins league play Sept. 18 at Thomas, one week after

the Bears will celebrate the 15th anniversary of their 2000 Division I state championship team in their home opener against Brantford (Ont.) North Park Collegiate. UA returns its entire starting group of running backs in seniors Danny Logan, Cole Kaparos and Nicko Schuman behind an offensive line that brings back three starters. The Bears have five returning starters on the defensive side, but Cutler is hopeful that increased depth will cut down on the players who go both ways. At one time last year, according to Cutler, UA had eight players seeing considerable time on both offense and defense. “We will have a lot of guys rotating in, and that will be a highlight,” said Logan, who is committed to play lacrosse at defending national champion Denver. “We lost two games by a point (last year). We want to get to a 7-3, 8-2, 9-1-type record, and we think we have a group that can do that.”

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OFFENSE

UA leaned to the pass last year in an offense led by 2015 graduate Kyle Kaparos, as the Bears passed for 1,439 yards and ran for 1,200. Murdocco, whom Cutler said generally is a pocket passer, will have an array of receivers at his disposal. While Logan is expected to be used more in the running game, he was UA’s second-leading receiver last year, with 12 catches for 294 yards and three touchdowns. Tight end Cole Pirwitz caught 10 passes for 190 yards and three scores. One of UA’s backup quarterbacks, junior Riley Cooper, also is a move-in. He came from Grove City. Schuman rushed for a teamhigh 331 yards and two touchdowns on 51 carries, and Cole Kaparos added 220 yards and four touchdowns on 56 carries. “I have more of the speed. Danny has speed, too,” Schuman said. “Cole is mostly power, I would say. He’ll be our powerback kind of guy.” Seniors C.J. Johnson (center) and Alex Turner and junior Ben Furash (right tackle) return to anchor the offensive line. “We all understand the offense at a higher pace and can move through the playbook faster,” Kaparos said. “It’s great to go at a fast tempo. We’re throwing in more motions. It’s easier for us to move the ball faster and keep the tempo up and keep the defense on their heels.”

DEFENSE

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Speight, who was a firstteam all-state safety last year, will help lead a secondary that also returns returning junior E.J. Caldwell at safety and Logan at cornerback. Caldwell had 36 tackles last year, fourth on the team and best among returning players. He and Logan each broke up six passes. Pirwitz returns at defensive end, as does senior Izak Wunderlich at defensive tackle and

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OCC-CENTRAL D IVISION

Marysville

New-look Monarchs alter their attack

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Marysville High School football team will have a new look as it aims to return to the postseason. After qualifying for the Division I, Region 1 playoffs in 2013, the Monarchs fell short last season, going 4-6 overall and 2-5 in the OCC-Central Division. The Monarchs finished 26th in Region 1 as the top 16 teams qualified for the playoffs. With the loss of 24 players to graduation, including several skill-position players, fourthyear coach Morgan Cotter said the Monarchs have gone from a spread offense to a more traditional two-back, power-based scheme. “Every year you look forward to the new year,” said Cotter, whose team lost to Austintown Fitch 31-21 in the first round of the 2013 playoffs. “It’s always a little bit of a change, adjusting to the kids you have. You have kids you relied on in the past who graduated. You have kids you’re excited to see grow up.” The offense again will be led by junior quarterback Nathan Snyder, who earned the starting job last year and gained valuable experience to prepare him for his final two seasons. Snyder completed 83 of 151 passes for 934 yards with nine touchdowns and eight interceptions. “We’re real excited about what he can do,” Cotter said of Snyder. “This will be the first time since I’ve been here that we’ve had a (starting) quarterback for more than one season. We’re excited to have a kid who has come back … and knows what it takes to play on Friday nights.” Despite the change of attack, the goals remain the same for the Monarchs. They hope to make the postseason and contend in the OCC-Central Divi-

Junior Noah Wiseman will play tight end and fullback. Cotter said a competition developed in the preseason for starting assignments on the offensive line. Senior Ben Roshon, who is the only fulltime returning starter, will play right tackle. Other key linemen should be seniors Andrew Blumenschein and Zack Kilgore and juniors Gunner Daniels (C), Xavier Friley and Brandon Maisenbacher.

DEFENSE

Cotter said the defense will SPECIAL TEAMS be relatively young as it looks to compensate for the loss of Snyder and junior Tyler Bosch will share kicking duties, several key players. Leading the 4-2-5 base defense should be BlumenMONARCHS >> 57 schein, who is a returning starter on the line. Friley, Kilgore, senior Jack Essig and juniors Cameron Hill and Steven Wolfe also will see time on the line. Essig said the defensive chemistry is growing stronger. “We need to be more disciplined,” he said. “A good thing that’s coming together this year Pierce Scott is expected to lead the receiving corps for the Monarchs, who are coming off a 4-6 is the locker room atmosphere season. PAUL VERNON/THISWEEKSPORTS is great. Everyone gets along Uptown Steakhouse sion, a league Cotter calls one well, as several key players were get. Other key receivers should with each other.” 113 West 5th Street the toughest in the state. lost to graduation. be seniors Austin Erwin and Wiseman, senior Spencer Marysville, Ohio 43040 Last season, when the MonHall and junior Anthony “Sometimes you have to Jake Urbano. (937) 553-9064 archs finished sixth behind adjust to the athletes you have champion Dublin Coffman (7- on the field,” Cotter said. 0), Coffman, Hilliard Davidson The biggest loss is Aron and Central Crossing qualified Mowery, who rushed for 579 for the Division I, Region 2 yards and four touchdowns on playoffs and Olentangy Liberty 94 carries last season. earned a berth in Region 1. From Your Friends at The top threats at running The Monarchs open Aug. 28 back should be seniors Holden RE/MAX WINNERS at Jonathan Alder in the con- Cruea, Bobby Loeffler and Ty tinuation of a Union County Stiers. rivalry. The Monarchs won 27Marysville lost its top receiver 20 last season and 13-0 in 2013, to graduation in Desmond Johnwhile the Pioneers defeated Dine-In Only Marysville 30-10 in 2012, 21- son, who was named secondMust present coupon with team all-league. order. Not valid with any other 0 in 2011 and 30-21 in 2010. Senior Pierce Scott returns oﬀers or specials Expires 10/31/2015 and should be Snyder’s top tarOFFENSE

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*Thomas Worthington........W, 33-0 *Upper Arlington ................L, 14-7 *Central Crossing...............L, 21-7 *Hilliard Davidson ..............L, 28-0 *League contest INSIDE THE MONARCHS •Coach: Morgan Cotter, fourth season •Top players: Andrew Blumenshein (OL/DL), Casey Gould (RB/DB), Ben Roshon (OL), Pierce Scott (WR), Nathan Snyder (QB/K/P) and Ty Stiers (RB/DB) •Key losses: Austin Costlow (RB/LB), Hunter Harding (OL), Desmond Johnson (QB/RB/WR/DB), Seth Kidd (LB), Aron Mowery (QB/RB), Jesse Ramirez (DB),Alex Sepeda (WR/LB) and Keano Smith (DL)

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At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ..............at Jonathan Alder Sept. 4 ......................vs. Delaware Sept. 11...............vs. Dublin Scioto *Sept. 18 ...................vs. Westland *Sep. 25............at Dublin Coffman *Oct. 2 ..........vs. Olentangy Liberty *Oct. 9 .......at Thomas Worthington *Oct. 16.............at Upper Arlington *Oct. 23..........vs. Central Crossing *Oct. 30...........at Hilliard Davidson 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 2-5 OCC-Central) Jonathan Alder................W, 27-20 Delaware........................W, 20-13 Dublin Scioto .....................L, 38-3 *Westland.......................W, 31-28 *Dublin Coffman ................L, 51-6 *Olentangy Liberty ...........L, 23-13

LaCella lead the linebackers. Marysville features an experienced secondary led by returning starters in Stiers and seniors Casey Gould and Jake Hiltscher. Juniors Jacob Henley and Michael Ross also are competing for playing time. “We’re going to be young at linebacker,” Cotter said. “We graduated some really good linebackers the last couple of years. We have some young kids that are eager to play. We just have to find out if they can play under the lights.”

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OCC-CENTRAL D IVISION

Hilliard Davidson

Wildcats set familiar goals: OCC, playoffs

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Hilliard Davidson High School football team enters each season with the same expectations. Those goals include contending for an OCC-Central Division title and advancing in the postseason. The Wildcats are seeking their eighth consecutive postseason berth, and coach Brian White believes his team has the potential to reach its goals. “The expectations never change for us,” White said. “We have the exact same goals every year. Our goal is for our kids to reach their fullest potential. In great years our kids exceed their potential, and when we can do that we’ll take whatever results might be.” Davidson opens Aug. 28, at home against Grove City, looking to avenge a 6-0 loss

to the Dawgs last season. The Wildcats’ non-league schedule also includes games at Darby on Sept. 4 and at Bradley on Sept. 11. It will be the first meeting with the Jaguars. The Wildcats were 2-3 midway through the season a year ago, but won four of their final five regular-season games to earn a postseason berth. The 13th-seeded Wildcats lost at fourth-seeded Dublin Coffman 14-10 in the first round of the Division I, Region 2 playoffs as the Shamrocks pulled out the win with a late touchdown. With Coffman returning a number of key players, White expects the Shamrocks to again be the team to beat in the OCC-Central. Coffman – which defeated Davidson 24-9 during the regular season in week 1 of league play – went 7-0 in the OCCCentral to finish first ahead of Olentangy Liberty (6-1), Cen-

Good Luck Hilliard Davidson!

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tral Crossing (5-2) and Davidson (4-3). At a glance “I feel like we can be bet2015 SCHEDULE *Westland.........................W, 38-0 ter this year and finish in the Aug. 28 ....................vs. Grove City *Upper Arlington................W, 26-7 exact same spot we did last Sept. 4 .................at Hilliard Darby *Olentangy Liberty .............L, 21-0 year,” White said. “We could Sept. 11.............at Hilliard Bradley *Thomas Worthington........W, 45-7 be a much better football team *Sept. 18..........vs. Dublin Coffman *Marysville .......................W, 28-0 *Sep. 25 ..........at Central Crossing PLAYOFFS and finish fourth in our *Oct. 2 ........................at Westland Coffman ..........................L, 14-10 league.” *Oct. 9 .............vs. Upper Arlington *League contest Davidson, which lost 24 *Oct. 16 ........vs. Olentangy Liberty INSIDE THE WILDCATS players to graduation, should *Oct. 23 .....at Thomas Worthington •Coach: Brian White, 17th season be boosted by the return of *Oct. 30 ..................vs. Marysville •Top players: Kyle Bessen (OL), Jack senior quarterback Jack Klein, 2014 RESULTS Klein (QB), Colton Miles (DB), Jacob who missed the final three (6-5 overall, 4-3 OCC-Central) Ross (DB), Ryan Royer (RB/LB), Cam Grove City............................L, 6-0 Russell (DL), Destry Snyder (RB), Ryan games last season after sufHilliard Darby ....................W, 10-7 Tuchow (LB), Zac Uphouse (TE/DL) fering a knee injury in a 21-0 Waterloo (Ontario) Sir John A. and Jesse Wymard (DB) loss to Liberty in week 8. Macdonald........................W, 55-0 •Key losses: Markus Bailey (RB/LB), “We definitely have a lot *Dublin Coffman ................L, 24-9 Ben Brooks (LB) and Nick Potts of potential, a lot of returnees,” *Central Crossing...L, 21-20 (3 OT) (TE/LB) Klein said. “I thought we ended on a $ good note last year and we on Lennox Furnace & AC have a lot of experience, so replacement system we should be pretty good. Our Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 main goals are to compete for (614) 784-0800 the league and make it to the See our ad on pg. 91 playoffs.” Also back is senior running “This has been an enjoyback Destry Snyder, who led downs on 172 carries. He was the team in rushing with 610 named honorable mention all- able year so far, but we’ll find yards rushing and five touch- league. out when adversity strikes just

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how enjoyable it is,” White said. “That’s a tell-tale sign of whether or not you’re having fun if you’re having fun during adverse times.”

OFFENSE

The Wildcats’ ground attack will depend on Snyder and a line that features three returning starters in seniors Kyle Bessen (center), Dylan Day (tackle) and Solomon Sparks (guard/tackle) Seniors Alex Davis, Kyle Siders and Zach Weethee are also expected to contribute up front. Seniors Andrew Kozman and Nathan Rose along with junior Ryan Royer will look to complement Snyder in the backfield. “The more guys you can distribute the ball to, the better you are,” White said. “If we can spread the ball out a little bit, it makes it a little tougher on the defense. If we can’t run the ball, we’re going to struggle.” White is looking forward to the return of Klein at quarterback. “Jack has an intangible that sets him apart,” White said. “The intangibles that he has compensate for the leg injury that he’s still trying to overcome.” When Davidson does pass, top receivers should be seniors Tyler Lomphoy and Nick Ziegler, and junior David St. Clair. St. Clair will also back up Klein. Senior Zac Uphouse and junior Sam Monnin are important blockers at tight end in the team’s ground attack.

DEFENSE

Davidson will again utilize a 50 shade base defense, led by Uphouse at the important Leo linebacker position. He’ll line up across from the tight end and will be counted on to rush the quarterback and stop

WILDCATS >> 31 August 27, 2015

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Page 25

OCC-CENTRAL D IVISION

Thomas Worthington

Cards look for spark in switch to spread By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

After getting shut out seven times and scoring only 20 points last season, the Thomas Worthington High School football team is in search of answers on offense. Second-year coach Rodney Hopkins believes he may have found some. The Cardinals, hoping to utilize their speed, are switching to the spread offense. “We’ve got talent at the skill positions and we’ve got to find a way to get the ball to those guys and let them use their speed and quickness to make plays for us,” Hopkins said. “We lack size and our strength is in our

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speed. This gives us a better chance to make plays. There’s not as much play-making available in the flexbone triple-option offense.” Hopkins had installed the flexbone last season. “We didn’t have the time to install it early in the offseason (last year) and we were a very young team, with just 10 seniors and only six of them had varsity experience,” Hopkins said. “This offense should take advantage of our strengths, and we had a lot more time to prepare the boys and explain the nuances. “There’s a night-and-day difference between where we were at this point last year and where we are now. I believe there’s also a night-and-day difference between our expectations entering last season and entering this season. We are so focused on doing what we need to do that we don’t even look at last year, talk about it or think about it. And that’s a good thing. We’ve turned the page and we’re moving forward.” The Cardinals also are making a change defensively, incorporating a 4-3 look after using a 50-shade base scheme a year ago. Thomas allowed 48.2 points per game in 2014. Hopkins has five new coaches, with Devon Scott, Jake Shafer and Joe Duffy helping the offense and Joel Baldwin and Randy Mueller working with the defense. Baldwin is the defensive coordinator. Derrek Christy has returned as offensive coordinator and Brandon Moorer is back with the defense. “I have been impressed with the way these kids have worked and listened to the staff,” Hopkins said. “They are motivated. They are lifting harder, running harder, practicing harder and competing harder. Last year

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28..........vs. Hilliard Bradley Sept. 4 ....................at Kilbourne Sept. 11.......vs. Columbus South *Sept. 18.......vs. Upper Arlington *Sept. 24 .................at Westland *Oct. 2 ..........vs. Dublin Coffman *Oct. 9 ..................vs. Marysville *Oct. 16 ........at Central Crossing *Oct. 23 ......vs. Hilliard Davidson *Oct. 30 ......at Olentangy Liberty 2014 RESULTS (0-10 overall, 0-7 OCC-Central) Hilliard Bradley ...............L, 43-0 Worthington Kilbourne.....L, 42-0 Eastmoor Academy.........L, 55-0 *Upper Arlington .............L, 42-6 *Westland.......................L, 40-7 *Dublin Coffman .............L, 52-0 *Marysville .....................L, 33-0 *Central Crossing............L, 42-0 *Hilliard Davidson ...........L, 45-7 *Olentangy Liberty ..........L, 34-0 *League contest INSIDE THE CARDINALS •Coach: Rodney Hopkins, second season •Top players: Liam Buchy (OL), Brennan Chiodo (DB), Preston Byers (OL), Chase Forte (DB), Zach Gallion (QB), Zach Henderson (OL), Mason Hunter (WR), Jay Kidd (RB), Chris Lyles (LB), Travis Sanders (DL/OL) and Terrell Washington (RB) •Key losses: Kyle Hillyard (FB/LB), Jace Komminsk (QB/DB), John Lee (RB/SS), John Petrucelli (FB/DE) and Joe Thompson (FB)

Travis Sanders, a junior nose guard, will enter his third season as a starter. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

was a learning experience and they don’t want to live that again. We’ve got seven starters back on both sides of the football, including four on the offensive line and two on the defensive line, plus most of our defensive backfield. We have experience and 20 lettermen.”

OFFENSE

Senior Zach Gallion is expected to start at quarterback, with sophomore Nick Kendig serving as his backup. The primary targets will be senior wide receivers Garrett

Coleman, Mason Hunter and Cole Steele. Senior Jay Kidd and junior Terrell Washington will line up at running back. Sophomore Khalil Jones could see action in the backfield and as a receiver. “Jay Kidd is a small, fast back who has some deception,” Hopkins said. “Washington started last season at quarterback, then moved to the slot. But he’s a bigger back. Hunter has looked good and Coleman and Steele can also turn a 7-yard reception into a 25- or 35-yard gain. We’ve got some big-play poten-

tial.” Seniors Liam Buchy and Preston Byers and juniors Nicholas Green and Justin Tullos are back on the line. Joining them in the starting lineup is senior Chris Pack, who was a defensive starter last season.

DEFENSE

Senior Zach Henderson and junior Travis Sanders will anchor the line. Both are team captains, along with Byers. “Sanders is a nose guard who started as a freshman and will be a third-year starter,” Hop-

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CARDINALS >> 35

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The Westland High School football team will look to build on last season’s progression under second-year coach Kyle Goebbel. The Cougars won three of their first five games last season before losing their final five to finish 3-7 overall. Despite the disappointing finish, Goebbel believes the coaching staff has built a solid foundation for the future. “It’s like night and day,” Goebbel said, comparing the two seasons. “Last year, it was me and my coaching staff getting to know our players and our players getting to know us and going into it with no expectations or idea. This year, we’re very comfortable, very confident with who we are and how we can push our kids to challenge them, and they’re really responding.” Westland opens Aug. 28 at Licking Heights.

“I feel a lot better having coach (Goebbel) for a second year now,” senior fullback and defensive lineman Rafael Garcia said. “I feel more comfortable with him. We’ve come a long way. We have a lot of returning players. We feel like we have a great future ahead of us. We need to be very critical with each other, help each other out and improve in every aspect of the game.” Last season, the Cougars went 1-6 in the OCC-Central Division to finish seventh behind champion Dublin Coffman (7-0), with Coffman, Hilliard Davidson, Central Crossing and Olentangy Liberty all earning Division I playoff berths. Westland’s 40-7 win over Thomas Worthington last year marked its first league win since 2006, ending its 42-game losing streak in league play. The Cougars are looking forward to their season-ending game at South-Western City Schools rival Central Crossing on Oct. 30. Last year, the Comets secured their first postseason berth by defeating

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

Westland 22-7 in the regular-season finale. “We had a very good core group by the end of last season,” Goebbel said. “We ended on a really positive note. We lost to Central Crossing but played one of our better games of the season. We came off that field feeling like a very close group.” Goebbel, who shared league Coach of the Year honors with Coffman’s Mark Crabtree and Central Crossing’s Chris Harr, thinks his team can take a similar path that the Comets took in qualifying for the playoffs. “We have next-level expectations and what we want to accomplish this year when it comes to wins and losses, but we know how tough our schedule is,” Goebbel said. “We want to beat Central Crossing on their field (in) game 10 and then potentially go to the playoffs.” Goebbel said his team’s preseason goals included finding depth at linebacker and on the offensive line.

COUGARS >>31 August 27, 2015

OCC-CENTRAL D IVISION

Olentangy Liberty

Patriots looking for encore

By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

It’s not like the Olentangy Liberty High School football team is still celebrating its first Division I playoff victory, but the accomplishments of last season have given the Patriots something to build on. Coming off its worst finish since its inaugural season, Liberty rebounded to finish 9-3 overall, place second in the OCC-Central Division at 6-1 behind Dublin Coffman (7-0) and qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2009. The Patriots, who had a sixgame winning streak during the regular season, defeated Toledo Whitmer 49-21 in the first round of the Division I, Region 1 playoffs and battled Lakewood St. Edward for three quarters in a second-round contest before losing 41-12. “It’s really given us a lot of confidence,” senior quarterback Alex Lando said. “That experience of playing in November is a whole different atmosphere. We went up against St. Edward and were winning in the third quarter, so I think this is a group that believes we can compete with anyone in the state.” The playoff victory was the first for Liberty since 2005. The Patriots went 5-5 in 2013 and finished 1-9 in their first season in 2003. “Expectations are high and we want to pick up right where we left off last season,” said 13th-year coach Steve Hale, whose team opens Aug. 28 at home against Olentangy Orange. “I think we have a good group returning with a lot of good chemistry. We’ve given them a lot of challenges and they’ve attacked each one.”

Go Olentangy Patriots! Best of Luck!

At a glance

Brendon White had 21 receptions for 264 yards and five touchdowns last season. JAMES D. DECAMP/THISWEEKSPORTS

Liberty returns six starters on offense, including Lando, a two-year starter who completed 191 of 280 passes for 2,045 yards and 22 touchdowns last year and was named special mention all-district and first-team all-league. A.J. Arcuri, a lineman who committed to Michigan State in early August, is expected to be among the leaders of a defense that returns four starters.

OFFENSE

The Patriots had a potent running game a year ago, led by 2015 graduate Nick Durtschi, who rushed for 1,254 yards and 12 touchdowns on 231 carries, caught 44 passes

for 364 yards and four scores and was second-team alldistrict and first-team allleague. Senior Torre Bower and sophomore Trent Davies will be the new faces in the backfield. At wide receiver, juniors Drew Rosi (22 catches, 320 yards), Brendon White (21 catches, 264 yards, 5 TDs) and Liberty and Comfort for All Will Fowler (11 catches, 103 (614) 784-0800 yards) are back. White, who scored three of his touchdowns FREE ESTIMATES against Whitmer, played only See our ad on pg. 91 five games because of a dislocated elbow. Rosi was special mention all-league last year and Fowler our best years for receivers,” was honorable mention all- Lando said. league. PATRIOTS >> 54 “I think this might be one of

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2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .....vs. Olentangy Orange Sept. 4 ...................at Olentangy Sept. 11 .........vs. Dublin Jerome *Sept. 18.....vs. Central Crossing *Sept. 25........at Upper Arlington *Oct. 2 ...................at Marysville *Oct. 9....................vs. Westland *Oct. 16 .......at Hilliard Davidson *Oct. 23 .........at Dublin Coffman *Oct. 20.........vs. Thomas Worth. 2014 RESULTS (9-3 overall, 6-1 OCC-Central) Olentangy Orange..........W, 38-0 Olentangy.....................L, 35-34 Dublin Jerome .............W, 35-12 *Central Crossing...........W, 30-8 *Upper Arlington ..........W, 22-21 *Marysville ..................W, 23-13 *Westland......................W, 35-0 *Hilliard Davidson ..........W, 21-0 *Dublin Coffman ...........L, 53-24 *Thomas Worthington ....W, 34-0 PLAYOFFS Toledo Whitmer............W, 49-21 Lakewood St. Edward ...L, 41-12 *League contest INSIDE THE PATRIOTS •Coach: Steve Hale, 13th season •Top players: A.J. Arcuri (DL), Nathan Brock (OL), Ben Casale (OL), Will Fowler (WR/DB), Alex Lando (QB), Nick Lind (DE), Drew Rosi (WR/DE), Grant Uehlein (DB) and Brendon White (WR/DB) •Key losses: Patrick Barboza (LB), Nick Durtschi (RB), Scott Goodwill (LB), Jake Hale (DE/LS), Hunter Littlejohn (OL/DL), Tyler Smith (LB), Jacob Wiseman (WR) and Jacob Worrell (LB)

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Page 27

OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

SHAMROCKS FROM >> 21

had a team-high 56 receptions for 1,172 yards and 18 touchdowns and was second-team all-state and first-team all-district and all-league. Among those expected to fill the void at running back is senior Stephen Headings, who backed up Kendrick. The rotation at the slot position, which is a hybrid running back/receiver, will include senior Brady Rothgeb, a move-in from Upper Arlington who caught 10 passes for 240 yards and four touchdowns, a team-

high for UA receivers. Crabtree said he expects junior Caleb Stoneburner – the younger brother of former OSU tight end Jake Stoneburner, who was in training camp attempting to make the roster of the Miami Dolphins this summer – to have an “immediate impact” at receiver.

DEFENSE

Coffman’s 4-3 defensive scheme has two returning senior starters at linebacker in Grady and Isaac McKinney. Grady was special mention alldistrict and second-team all-

league, while McKinney was special mention all-state and first-team all-district as well as sharing league co-Player of the Year honors with Kendrick. “We have some good kids, but not a ton of experience and they’re learning what to do,” Crabtree said. “They’ve been working their butts off in practice and we’re coaching them hard. That’s all we can do. We have a chance to be really good, but you never know until the scores are for real.” Rothgeb also played defensive back at UA, totaling 32 tackles, seven pass breakups

and two interceptions. On the line, Crabtree said senior Ryan Beardsley (6-1, 208) and junior Ben Frye (6-3, 219) are “quick and explosive,” and junior Joe Kendrick (5-10, 250) “has a chance to be one of the better defensive linemen around.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Gunnar Hoak (sr., 6-4, 200), Drew Hodgson (jr., 6-2, 184) R u n n i n g b a c k s : Stephen

COFFMAN >> 72

Linebacker Griffin Grady, who has committed to Wisconsin, is one of two senior starters on defense. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

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FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

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Page 30

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August 27, 2015

OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

Inside the division 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Dublin Coffman 7-0 11-1 Olentangy Liberty 6-1 9-3 Central Crossing 5-2 7-4 Hilliard Davidson 4-3 6-5 Upper Arlington 3-4 5-5 Marysville 2-5 4-6 Westland 1-6 3-7 Thomas Worth. 0-7 0-10 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Sept. 18 Central Crossing at Liberty Coffman at Davidson Westland at Marysville Upper Arlington at Thomas Sept. 24 Thomas at Westland Sept. 25 Davidson at Central Crossing Marysville at Coffman Liberty at Upper Arlington Oct. 2 Central Crossing at Upper Arlington

Coffman at Thomas Davidson at Westland Liberty at Marysville Oct. 9 Central Crossing at Coffman Upper Arlington at Davidson Marysville at Thomas Westland at Liberty Oct. 16 Thomas at Central Crossing Coffman at Westland Liberty at Davidson Marysville at Upper Arlington Oct. 23 Central Crossing at Marysville Liberty at Coffman Davidson at Thomas Upper Arlington at Westland Oct. 30 Coffman at Upper Arlington Westland at Central Crossing Marysville at Davidson Thomas at Liberty

EXPECTATIONS FROM >> 20

White, who led his program to state titles in 2006 and 2009, saw the Comets’ improvement firsthand and expects them to contend in the OCC-Central. “Central Crossing made an extreme amount of leaps and bounds last year in terms of improvement and we helped to make their season,” White said. “We helped put them to the next level and they have a ton of kids back. I’m happy for them.”

they remain winless against Coffman (0-8). Central Crossing visits Coffman on Oct. 9 after beginning league play against Liberty on Sept. 18, Davidson on Sept. 25 and UA on Oct. 2. For the Comets to return to the postseason, they’ll need to finish in the top 16 teams in Region 2 after being 15th last year. The top eight play host to a first-round game. Davidson coach Brian fdirenna@thisweeknews.com

WILDCATS FROM >> 24 the run. Senior Cam Russell is another returning starter on the line Other key linemen are senior Ivan Goya, junior Grant Friske and sophomores Sam Backenstoe and Nonso Uba. Senior Ryan Tuchow is a returning starting linebacker and junior Boston Nolte also should see action at that spot. “We’re working a lot harder this year,” Nolte said. “People care a lot more than last year. We don’t want to have a repeat of last year.” The secondary should feature returning starters in senior safety Colton Miles, senior cornerback Jacob Ross and junior safety Jesse Wymard. Royer also was a starter in the secondary last season, but White said he should see time at running back and linebacker.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Robert Lefevre will again handle the kicking and punting duties. Lomphoy, Miles and Ross give Davidson solid threats in the return game.

THE LINEUP

R u n n i n g b a c k s : Andrew Kozman (sr., 5-11, 187), Nathan Rose (sr., 5-9, 165), *Destry Snyder (sr., 5-7. 170), Ryan Royer (sr., 5-10, 189) Receivers: *Tyler Lomphoy (sr., 5-9, 160), Nick Ziegler (sr., 5-10, 173). St. Clair T i g h t e n d : Zac Uphouse (sr., 6-1, 205), *Sam Monnin (jr., 6-1, 200) Linemen: *Kyle Bessen (sr., 6-0, 275), Alex Davis (sr., 510, 216), *Dylan Day (sr., 61, 203), Kyle Siders (sr., 6-0, 256), *Solomon Sparks (sr., 6-0, 206), (sr., 6-0, 255), Zach Weethee (sr., 5-9, 207) Defense Linemen: Ivan Goya (sr., 5-11, 218), *Cam Russell (sr., 6-3, 239), Grant Frisky (jr., 6-2, 246), Sam Backenstoe (so., 6-1, 282), Nonso Uba (so., 6-0, 228) Linebackers: *Ryan Tuchow (sr., 5-11, 203), *Uphouse, *Boston Nolte (jr., 5-11, 181), Royer Secondary: *Colton Miles (sr., 6-0, 176), *Jacob Ross (sr., 5-10, 161), *Jesse Wymard (jr., 6-0, 166), Special teams Kicker: *Robert Lefevre (sr., 6-1, 178) Punter: *Lefevre Returners: Lomphoy, Miles and Ross Long snapper: Uphouse and Monnin (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jack Klein (sr., 6-foot-2, 184 pounds), David St. Clair (jr. 6-0, 162) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com August 27, 2015

COUGARS

FROM >> 26

OFFENSE

At a glance Key wide receivers are seniors Ivan Suazo and Will Peterson, junior Joshua Douglas and sophomores Ousmane Dabo and Adjrain Settler. “We’re a lot more experienced and a lot more comfortable under the coaching staff,” Peterson said. “We know what we have to do.” Seniors Michael Gasca, Justin Hurley and Manny Lagunas should anchor the offensive line. Other notable linemen are seniors Blaine Dunigan and Abu Sheikh, junior Michael Tedder and sophomore Trent Bott. “We have our quarterback back, we have our tailback, Matt Mickens, back, we have our key offensive linemen back with Justin Hurley and Manny Lagunas,” Goebbel said.

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .............at Licking Heights Sept. 4 ...........................vs. Mifflin Sept. 11 .....................at Delaware *Sept. 18...................at Marysville *Sep. 24 ...vs. Thomas Worthington *Oct. 2 ...........vs. Hilliard Davidson *Oct. 9............at Olentangy Liberty *Oct. 16 ...........vs. Dublin Coffman *Oct. 23............vs. Upper Arlington *Oct. 30 ...........at Central Crossing 2014 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 1-6 OCC-Central) Eastmoor Academy ..........L, 28-14 Mifflin...............................W, 34-0 Delaware........................W, 28-21 *Marysville ......................L, 31-28 *Thomas Worthington........W, 40-7 *Hilliard Davidson ..............L, 38-0

downs and added two rushing scores. He was named firstteam all-state, all-district and all-league. Senior Colter Bass should be the top running back after rushing for 497 yards and five touchdowns on 74 carries and adding 21 receptions for 241 yards and three scores last season. He was honorable mention all-league. “There’s high expectations, especially for the seniors,” Bass said. “Since seventh grade at Pleasant View Middle School we’ve had almost this whole class, the 2016 class, who have been waiting and been saying, ‘can’t wait for our senior year,’ and it’s come and it’s time to put our foot on the gas and go out and win that race for the playoffs.” Senior wide receiver Christian Miranda returns after catching 37 passes for 563 yards and four touchdowns. Harr said the team’s offensive balance is evident at receiver, as eight players could contribute. Senior Koran Montague, junior Ryan Traversa and sophomore Owen Lakso are other key threats. On the line, senior center Scott Gorslene and junior tackle Jake Kaiser are key returnees, joining senior Kole Brock and juniors Kyle Bausch, Matt Peck and Zach Robinson.

one as a family. We want to be better than what we were last year. No one thought that we were going to be good last year, but ever since we got good, we want to keep that cycle going from here on out.” Senior Michael Gay should also contribute on the line. Other key linebackers are seniors Caleb Alexander and Blake Luebben and junior Ethan Ingalls. Senior Antonio Quintana returns at cornerback. Senior Mason Shimmel also will play cornerback, and senior Chandler Cohn and junior Troy Speakman are safeties. “Our defense is really good right now,” Harr said. “We have nine seniors on defense. Our front seven is pretty good.”

*Olentangy Liberty .............L, 35-0 *Dublin Coffman ................L, 48-7 *Upper Arlington ..............L, 35-14 *Central Crossing...............L, 22-7 *League contest INSIDE THE COUGARS •Coach: Kyle Goebbel, second season •Top players: Clay Carrel (QB/LB), Rafael Garcia (RB/DL), Michael Gasca (OL/LB/K), Justin Hurley (OL/DL), Michael Llausas (RB/LB), Matt Mickens (RB/DB), Will Peterson (WR/DB) and Ivan Suazo (WR/DB) •Key losses: Tevon Drake (OL/DL), Brian Foster (WR/DB), Reggie Gilliam (RB/LB), Jonathan Justice (OL/DL), Michael Llausas (LB) and Dominick Thomas (WR/DB)

Back to direct Westland’s spread offense is senior quarterback Clay Carrel. Last season, Carrel completed 69 of 137 passes for 842 yards and seven touchdowns and rushed for 524 yards and three touchdowns on 128 carries and was named honorable mention all-league. Westland lost several skill players to graduation, but returns its top rusher in senior tailback Matt Mickens, who ran for 698 yards and six touch$ downs on 97 carries and was on Lennox Furnace & AC second-team all-league. replacement system “I have higher expectations Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All for myself and I’m going to go or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 (614) 784-0800 even harder to try and get colSee our ad on pg. 91 lege looks,” Mickens said. Junior Trey Mayes will split time with Garcia at fullback, Bott at end and Hurley and Peterson, Settler, Suazo and DEFENSE and junior Abdul Diallo and Lagunas at tackle. junior Manny Vargas should sophomore Matt Bailey also Westland’s base 4-3 defense Gasca and Sheikh lead the WESTLAND >> 33 will see time in the backfield. will feature Garcia, Mayes and linebackers, and Mickens,

Save 300

COMETS

FROM >> 20

offense. Senior linebacker Rob Fusner and senior linemen Ryan Peoples and Kameron Teacher should lead the defense. Central Crossing begins league play at Liberty on Sept. 18, and Harr believes his team can again contend for the league title with Coffman, Liberty, Hilliard Davidson and Upper Arlington. Last season, the Comets earned the biggest league victory in program history by winning at Davidson 21-20 in three overtimes. Central Crossing plays host to the Wildcats on Sept. 25. The Comets close the regular season against school district rival Westland on Oct. 30 at home. Central Crossing leads the all-time series 6-0. “This year is all about the seniors and how far they can take us,” Harr said. “We want to get back to the playoffs and we want to host a playoff game. In (Region 2) that’s really hard to do.”

OFFENSE

Williamson took over the starting quarterback job against Davidson in week five and led the Comets to the postseason. He completed 109 of 202 passes for 1,261 yards with 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and rushed for 623 yards and five scores on 132 carries. He was named second-team all-league and special mention all-district. “We expect Deric to be one of the better quarterbacks in the area,” Harr said. “He can run and he’s a different kind of runner. He’s almost like a fullback coming at you. He gives us a different dimension as a runner for a spread team.” Stephens had 50 catches for 636 yards and seven touch-

DEFENSE

Harr said he believes his 34 base defense will be much improved. Fusner had 68 tackles and 7.5 sacks last season, and was first-team all-league and special mention all-district. Teacher had 52 tackles and five sacks, and was second-team all-league and special mention all-district. “Being a senior now, we really want to go all the way,” Teacher said. “We’re together,

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SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Drew Carmichael returns and will handle the kicking and Shimmel is the punter. The top return threats are Bass and Speakman, and Gorslene is the long snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Deric Williamson (jr., 5-11, 215) Running backs: Caleb Alexander (sr., 5-11, 205), *Colter Bass (sr., 5-11, 180) Receivers: *Christian Miranda (sr., 6-2, 185), *Koran Montague (sr., 6-4, 185), Blake Ooten (sr., 5-10, 175), *Noah Stephens (sr., 6-4, 195), Jordan Pilkington (jr., 6-0, 160), Ramses Redman (jr., 6-4, 220), Ryan Traversa (jr., 6-0, 165), Owen Lakso (so., 5-9, 165) Linemen: *Kole Brock (sr., 5-11, 245), *Scott Gorslene (sr., 6-0, 245), Kyle Bausch (jr., 6-2, 275), *Jake Kaiser (jr., 6-3, 275), Matt Peck (jr., 6-0, 240), Zach Robinson (jr., 510, 275)

Defense Linemen: *Michael Gay (sr., 6-0, 265), *Ryan Peoples (sr., 6-2, 270), *Kameron Teacher (sr., 6-1, 265), Steven Hockingberry (jr., 6-0, 195) Linebackers: Alexander, *Rob Fusner (sr., 6-1, 220), *Blake Luebben (sr., 6-3, 205), *Lekan Oseni (sr., 6-2, 205), *Ethan Ingalls (jr., 6-0, 225) Secondary: *Chandler Cohn (sr., 5-11, 185), *Mason Shimmel (sr., 5-11, 180), *Antonio Quintana (sr., 5-11, 160), *Troy Speakman (jr., 6-0, 165) Special teams Kicker: *Drew Carmichael (jr., 5-9, 165) Punter: *Shimmel Returners: Bass, Speakman Long snapper: *Gorslene (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com

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OCC-CAPITAL DIVISION

Spotlight

Dawkins shows strong skills, humble attitude By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Seth Dawkins is an unassuming 6-foot-3, 205-pound senior. But when he steps on the field for the Franklin Heights High School football team, people take notice. Dawkins had offers to several major Division I college programs but gave a verbal commitment to Louisville, the same school where his father Anthony Dawkins played defensive back from 1973-78. “Seth is very humble. He never talks about himself,” Anthony Dawkins said. “I tell him to go out and play, and let the other people do the talking about him.” Franklin Heights coach Tennyson Varney, who is set begin his second season with the Falcons, instantly knew that Dawkins would be the centerpiece of his spread attack. “You can tell right away when you see him,” Varney said. “He’s big, strong and his hands are huge. He looks you in the eye and has that deep voice ... He’s a physical kid with a great background.” Dawkins’ father played at Louisville and his mother, Dubonna (Mosley) Dawkins, was a member of the women’s track and field program at Ohio State. Last spring, he won the boys long jump in the Division I regional track and field meet at Pickerington North with an effort of 21 feet, 10 inches. He

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went on to finish seventh (2110 3/4) in the state meet at Ohio State. “You would not even know that he competed in the state meet,” Varney said. “I had to go up and ask him about it. He doesn’t talk about things like that. It’s almost like it’s an expectation for him.” But football is the sport Dawkins enjoys most, and he wants to help turn around the Falcons’ fortunes this season. The program has lost 37 consecutive league games after finishing 1-9 overall and 0-7 in the OCC-Capital Division last season. Dawkins said his first goal as a senior is snapping that losing streak. “It’s been a while since we won a league game and that’s something I want to share with my teammates,” Dawkins said. “This is our second year with coach (Varney), so we’re expecting to play better and get some OCC wins.” The Falcons almost snapped that streak in the week 8 last season, losing to Olentangy Orange 42-41 in the final minute. A two-point conversion by Orange’s Blake Skuratowicz with 58 seconds remaining capped a rally that erased a 21-point lead that Franklin Heights had with 10:51 left in the game. “One thing that game taught me was that you can never get complacent,” Dawkins said. “That was the closest OCC

Franklin Heights wide receiver Seth Dawkins will follow the footsteps of his father, Anthony, as he will play at Louisville. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

game that we’ve had in quite a while. We can’t let that happen again.” Dawkins visited several schools and was considering Michigan State until he went to Louisville. He fell in love with the school, the program and the city. “My dad was pretty happy that I was going there, but my mom seemed to be even happier,” said Dawkins, who has a 3.3 GPA and plans to major in physical therapy or a pre-dentistry curriculum. “I liked the coaching staff (at Louisville), I liked the colors and I get a chance to play wide receiver when I get there.” What areas does Dawkins thinks he needs to improve on to find success at the next level? “I need to work on blocking in space so I can get on the

field,” he said. “If you can’t block in college, you won’t play. “Also, I need to work on running routes. It’s important to get separation from your defender.” As of now, Dawkins would like to enroll at Louisville in January to prepare for spring practice, but Varney said SouthWestern City Schools does not allow students leave school early even if they have met their graduation requirements. Varney said he was in discussions with the district to possibly change the policy. “I have all of my requirements (for graduation) right now,” Dawkins said. “I would like to leave early, but that might not be possible. We’ll have to wait and see.” shennen@thisweeknews.com

Inside the division 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Olentangy 7-0 13-1 Big Walnut 5-2 7-3 Worth. Kilbourne 5-2 8-4 New Albany 4-3 5-5 Mount Vernon 3-4 5-5 Olentangy Orange 2-5 4-6 Delaware 2-5 3-7 Franklin Heights 0-7 1-9 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Sept. 18 Big Walnut at Olentangy Kilbourne at Delaware Franklin Heights at Mount Vernon Orange at New Albany Sept. 25 Delaware at Big Walnut New Albany at Franklin Heights Mount Vernon at Kilbourne Olentangy at Orange Oct. 2 Kilbourne at Big Walnut Delaware at New Albany

Franklin Heights at Olentangy Mount Vernon at Orange Oct. 9 Big Walnut at Mount Vernon Orange at Delaware Kilbourne at Franklin Heights New Albany at Olentangy Oct. 15 Olentangy at Kilbourne Oct. 16 New Albany at Big Walnut Delaware at Mount Vernon Franklin Heights at Orange Oct. 23 Big Walnut at Orange Delaware at Franklin Heights Mount Vernon at Olentangy Kilbourne at New Albany Oct. 30 Franklin Heights at Big Walnut Olentangy at Delaware New Albany at Mount Vernon Orange at Kilbourne

Franklin Heights

Falcons are working hard to improve By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Tennyson Varney has not had an easy road leading the Franklin Heights High School football program. The second-year coach endured a 1-9 finish last season, and had to withstand difficult conditions in the preseason thanks to the demolition of the high school while the new structure is being built. But with several key players returning, he believes the hardships will only help make his team better. “Adversity is the key word for our preseason,” said Varney, whose team opens Aug. 28 at home against Eastmoor Academy. “We spent a lot of time without electricity and water, and we had to lift weights in the parking lot. A new building cuts into our old practice field, so we couldn’t practice there, so we work out where the band practices, but it’s only 40 yards. “But the kids haven’t complained and have been showing up ready for workouts. They keep working hard and we think this adversity will help us during the season. We can’t worry about what other people are doing. We can only make sure we do the small things necessary to get better.” Seth Dawkins, a 6-foot-3, 205-pound wide

receiver and defensive back who has verbally committed to play at Louisville, said he is excited to get his senior season started. “We have a new school and new coaches to give us a new attitude,” he said. “We’re coming prepared this year.” The Falcons have lost 37 consecutive league games after finishing 0-7 in the OCC-Capital Division last season behind champion Olentangy (7-0). Their last league victory was Oct. 10, 2008, in a 22-13 win over a first-year program in Olentangy Orange. Franklin Heights did not have a program in 2009 when South-Western City Schools canceled fall sports because of a levy failure. Since defeating Orange, the Falcons are 547 overall and have not won more than two games in a season. That came in 2012 when they went 2-8. That was the same year they posted their last win over an OCC program, a 21-14 decision against Westerville North in a non-league season opener. “We definitely have seen a change in culture,” said Varney, who had 42 players on his preseason roster. “The kids have become accountable for themselves and are working to make each other better.”

FALCONS >> 36

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ......vs. Eastmoor Academy Sept. 4 ..................at Harvest Prep Sept. 11..........................at Briggs *Sept. 18 .............at Mount Vernon *Sept. 25 ...............vs. New Albany *Oct. 2.......................at Olentangy *Oct. 9 ...vs. Worthington Kilbourne *Oct. 16.........at Olentangy Orange *Oct. 23 ....................vs. Delaware *Oct. 30....................at Big Walnut 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-7 OCC-Capital) Columbus West...............W, 26-20 Centennial .......................L, 51-27 Briggs .............................L, 49-39 *Mount Vernon.................L, 41-22 *New Albany....................L, 48-13 * Olentangy .......................L, 45-7

*Worthington Kilbourne ....L, 34-12 * Olentangy Orange..........L, 42-41 *Delaware .......................L, 55-13 *Big Walnut......................L, 45-23 *League contest INSIDE THE FALCONS •Coach: Tennyson Varney, second season •Top players: Dylan Akers (QB/DB), Seth Dawkins (WR/DB/P), Brendon Knox (RB/LB), Parker McGlothlin (OL/DL),Austin Moore (OL/DL), James Morgan III (WR/DB), Christian Scase (OL/DL) and Joey Slark (OL/DL) •Key losses: Emmanuel Braxton (WR/DB), Armane Cotton (RB/LB), Justin Harris (RB/DL), Mitch Kittinger (RB/DB), Alonzo Longshore (OL/LB) and Ray Spangler (QB/LB)

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OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Worthington Kilbourne

Wolves want memorable milestone year By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Worthington Kilbourne High School football team is seeking to have a memorable season this fall. This is the program’s 25th season, and the Wolves would like to celebrate the milestone with the OCC-Capital Division championship. Last season, they finished 8-4 overall, went 5-2 in the league to tie Big Walnut for second behind Olentangy (7-0) and qualified for the Division II, Region 5 playoffs. The Wolves received a special gift in the form of the synthetic turf that was installed on their home field this summer. They hope to reciprocate by presenting the community, school and fans with a deeper playoff run than last season, when they defeated Watkins Memorial 32-9 in the first round before losing to Dublin Scioto 32-9 in a regional semifinal. “It’s going to be a memorable season and it would be remarkable to top it off like that, but that’s our goal,” ninthyear coach Vince Trombetti said. “We’re going to run the gun-option (offense) and spread the field a little more this year. We’ve got the potential to be scary good on offense, but we’ve got some work to do defensively with only three starters back.” Kilbourne opens Aug. 28 at Scioto before christening its new turf field Sept. 4 against Thomas Worthington. “We play Scioto in the Battle of Hard Road in our opener every year and, if we didn’t get the turf until next year, that game would be the first on the turf,” Trombetti said. “We thought the Worthington community would appreciate it more if the first game was against Thomas.” Trombetti is inviting all alumni to the home opener. “We’ve got a ton of alumni who have told me they’d be coming to (the home opener),” he said. “We’re also reaching out to our first two classes, especially the football players. We want them to come share stories with the team.” Kilbourne went 2-8 in its first season in 1991, but qualified for the Division II play-

At a glance

Josh Stoner, a senior slotback, was first-team all-OCC last season as the Wolves finished 8-4 overall and 5-2 in the division. PAUL VERNON/THISWEEKSPORTS

offs the following year. “Those early classes were part of the building blocks, helping us build this tradition,” Trombetti said. “Our 1997 team was one of only two teams from Worthington City Schools to go unbeaten in the regular season. Thomas did it in 1986 when they made the final four. “We’re separate schools, but share a link. We’re one community and this is going to be a great community event about our history. This turf is a gift to the entire community, too. It’s not just football.”

OFFENSE

The altered offensive approach is predicated on getting the most out of playmakers like running back Isiah Young, slotback Josh Stoner and wide receiver Dakota Holtzclaw. All three seniors had big seasons a year ago. Young rushed for a program-record 1,463 yards and scored 12 touchdowns on 270 carries. He was named secondteam all-district and shared OCC-Capital Player of the Year honors with Big Walnut’s Christian Johnson and Olentangy’s Connor Slade. Stoner was first-team all-league and special mention all-district.

At 6-foot-7, Holtzclaw provides a big target for senior quarterback Michael BellWheelwright. “Josh Stoner runs (40 yards in 4.4 seconds) and Isiah Young and Dakota Holtzclaw both have run 4.5,” Trombetti said. “Griffin Grosh and Jack Thayer are going to have good years at receiver, too. We just have to reduce our turnovers from a year ago.” Bell-Wheelwright replaces junior Tyler Davis, who helped steady the offense last year after 2015 graduate Griffin Dahn was injured in the fourth game and missed the remainder of the season. Davis is playing in the secondary this season. Juniors Sam Beerman and Carson Van Lynn are expected to be leaders on the line after both made second-team allleague last year.

both of whom were first-team all-district. Senior Connor Alley, junior Jack Trombetti and sophomore Thomas Wilson will start at linebacker, with junior Brock Wajda also seeing time at the position when the Wolves switch to a 3-4 look. Jack Trombetti is the coach’s son. Tyler Davis, Stoner, senior Jared Happ and junior Nick Hill are expected to start in the secondary, and senior Ryan Clay should be a leader on the line, which coach Trombetti said was unsettled.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Receivers: *Griffin Grosh (jr.,6-0, 160), *Dakota Holtzclaw (sr., 6-7, 215), *Jack Thayer (sr., 6-2, 170) Linemen: *Sam Beerman (so., jr., 6-0, 240), *Roen McCullough (so., 6-2, 240), *Brian Turner (jr., 5-10, 230), *Carson Van Lynn (jr., 6-6, 230), Alex Wills (jr., 6-0, 255), R.J. Mehan (fr., 6-4, 205) Defense Linemen: Tristan Ballinger (jr., 5-9, 170), *Ryan Clay (sr., 6-1, 265), *Seth Hartman (jr., 5-7, 190), *Mitchell Heaton (jr., 6-1, 175), Khari Lindsay (sr., 6-1, 190), *Andrew Thompson (jr., 5-10, 250) Linebackers: Connor Alley (sr., 5-7, 210), Jack Trombetti (jr., 6-1, 195), Thomas Wilson (so., 5-9, 205), Brock Wajda (jr., 5-6 175) Secondary: *Tyler Davis (jr., 5-9, 155), *Jared Happ (sr., 61, 175), *Nick Hill (jr., 5-8, 150), *Stoner, Jake Weirick (sr., 5-10, 170), Tyler Ward (so., 5-9, 155) Special Teams Kicker: *Trey Flores (sr.) Punter: *Holtzclaw Returners: *Ward, *Young Long snapper: *McCullough (*Denotes projected starter)

Senior Trey Flores takes over the kicking duties from 2015 graduate Grant Chesser and Holtzclaw returns as the punter. Sophomore Roen McCullough is the long snapper, and Young and sophomore Tyler Ward will be the punt DEFENSE Stoner and junior Nick Hill and kickoff returners. return to the secondary in KilTHE LINEUP bourne’s 4-3 defense. Offense The Wolves lost their entire Quarterbacks: *Michael linebacking corps to graduation, including first-team all- Bell-Wheelwright (sr., 6-2, district honoree Luke 170), Sam Biglin (so., 6-2, 195) Running backs: *Josh Stoner Hackathorne. Also lost to graduation were defensive backs (sr., 5-11, 190), *Isiah Young bemerine@thisweeknews.com Joe Davis and Dom Brown, (sr., 5-10, 190)

WESTLAND FROM >> 31 spearhead the secondary. Carrel also could see time at linebacker.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Gasca will handle the kicking duties and Diallo is the punter, with Garcia handling the long-snapping. Diallo, Settler, Bailey and August 27, 2015

Peterson all could see time as 5-5, 150) Receivers: *Will Peterson kickoff and punt returners. (sr., 5-8, 157), *Ivan Suazo (sr., THE LINEUP 5-7, 144), Ebenezer Bekele (sr., 6-0, 165), Joshua Douglas (jr., Offense Quarterback: *Clay Carrel 6-1, 150), Adjrain Settler (so., 5-8, 165) (sr., 6-0, 175) Linemen: *Michael Gasca Running backs: *Matt Mickens (sr., 5-11, 189), Rafael Gar- (sr., 5-6, 213), *Justin Hurley cia (sr., 6-1, 211), Abdul Diallo (sr., 5-8, 230), *Manny Lagu(jr., 5-11, 205), Trey Mayes nas (sr., 5-7, 230), Abu Sheikh (jr., 6-1, 185), Matt Bailey (so., (sr., 5-7, 193), Michael Ted-

der (jr., 6-5, 246), Trent Bott (so., 6-1, 240) Defense Linemen: *Garcia, *Hurley, *Lagunas, Dunigan, Mayes, Bott Linebackers: *Diallo, *Gasca, Carrel, Sheikh, Jose Echeverri (sr., 5-9, 190), Travis Thompson (jr., 5-8, 175), Secondary: *Mickens, *Peterson, *Settler, Bailey,

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Douglas, Manny Vargas (jr., 6-0, 170), Ousmane Dabo (so., 5-6, 155) Special teams Kicker: *Gasca Punter: *Diallo Returners: Peterson, Diallo, Bailey, Settler Long snapper: *Garcia (*Denotes projected starter)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .............at Dublin Scioto Sept. 4.....................vs. Thomas Sept. 11 ..vs. Hamilton Township *Sept. 18 ................at Delaware *Sept. 25.........vs. Mount Vernon *Oct. 2 ..................at Big Walnut *Oct. 9 ..........at Franklin Heights *Oct. 15 ................vs. Olentangy *Oct. 23...............at New Albany *Oct. 31 ....vs. Olentangy Orange 2014 RESULTS (8-4 overall, 5-2 OCC-Capital) Dublin Scioto................L, 17-14 Thomas Worthington......W, 42-0 Hamilton Township ......W, 21-14 *Delaware.....................W, 22-0 *Mount Vernon .............L, 34-27 *Big Walnut .................W, 23-13 *Franklin Heights .........W, 34-12 *Olentangy...................L, 54-21 *New Albany................W, 34-14 *Olentangy Orange ........W, 42-0 PLAYOFFS Watkins Memorial..........W, 32-9 Dublin Scioto..................L, 23-0 *League contest INSIDE THE WOLVES •Coach: Vince Trombetti, ninth season •Top players: Connor Alley (LB), Sam Beerman (OL), Michael BellWheelwright (QB), Nick Hill (DB), Dakota Holtzclaw (WR), Josh Stoner (SB/DB), Jack Trombetti (LB), Carson Van Lynn (OL) and Isaiah Young (RB) •Key losses: J.C. Bartok (OT), Dom Brown (DB), Joe Davis (DB), Luke Hackathorne (LB), Rafael Herrera (WR), Johnny Mack (LB), Ray Trombetti (OL), Darius Turner (DL), David Turner (DL) and Ahjallah Williams (LB)

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FOOTBALL

IS LIKE LIFE —

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— VINCE LOMBARDI

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OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Big Walnut

Eagles eager to step into postseason By JOSH NORTH THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Last season’s 7-3 overall record was not quite good enough for the Big Walnut High School football team to clinch its first playoff berth since 2011. Seventh-year coach Joe Weaver is hoping the Golden Eagles can end their postseason drought this fall despite having lost 19 players to graduation. The graduated players accounted for 96 percent of the team’s offensive yardage last season, when the Golden Eagles averaged 30.1 points per game. But that doesn’t mean Big Walnut will stray from its philosophies and systems. “We don’t like to change what we do,” said Weaver, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Mansfield Senior. “We like to put our guys in good spots and let them step up to the task.” The Golden Eagles ended last season on a four-game winning streak but fell one spot shy of a playoff berth. They finished ninth in the Division III, Region 9 computer ratings, less than two-hundredths of a point behind the final playoff qualifier, New Philadelphia. Weaver isn’t thinking about the playoffs yet, however, and he doesn’t want his players doing so. He wants the Golden Eagles to maintain the focused attitude that led them to a strong finish a year ago. “Right now, we’re just looking to win game one,” Weaver. “That’s our goal.”

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— TOM LANDRY

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It also has been four years since Big Walnut last won the OCC-Capital Division championship. The Golden Eagles went 5-2 in the league last season, tying Worthington Kilbourne for second behind Olentangy (7-0). Big Walnut opens league play Sept. 18 at Olentangy.

OFFENSE

The Golden Eagles’ tripleoption offense was led last season by running back and 2015 graduate Christian Johnson, the OCC-Capital co-Player of the Year who rushed for a teamhigh 1,330 yards and 12 touchdowns on 196 carries. Big Walnut also lost its second-leading rusher to graduation in Brayden Shepherd, who ran for 973 yards and 14 touchdowns on 209 carries. The Golden Eagles will take a running-back-by-committee approach to start the season, with senior Cole Weaver, juniors Evan Garcia and Philip Roberto and sophomore Tyler Ronk competing for playing time. The replacement for 2015 graduate Jordan Wall at quarterback also was up in the air, with senior Michael Sensi and sophomore John Sutton competing for the starting job. Sensi, who saw some snaps last season in relief of Wall, seems to have the edge heading into the opener. The receiver corps also has undergone significant changes, as the Golden Eagles lost their top three receivers to graduation, including Joe Muench, who caught a team-high 28 passes for 655 yards and six touchdowns a year ago. A pair of 6-foot-3 seniors, Josh Seabrook and Hayden Bowmar, are expected to be the top wide receivers. Big Walnut often utilizes two tight ends in formations and seniors Hayden D’Amico and Jacob Trott are holding those spots. The Golden Eagles also will look to use senior Isaac Lucas on offense, although he doesn’t have a specific position,

GALES FROM >> 13

we always have done.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Deluse will be the punter and had an edge over Dryden and Young to be the kicker. Senior Isaac Goss will be the long snapper, with Dryden, Smith and Walker expected to return kickoffs and punts.

Senior safety Isaac Lucas also will see time on offense, although it likely will be at a variety of postiions. “I’ll be all over the field this year and I’m excited to see what the coaches come up with,” he said. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

according to Weaver. Lucas, who earned first-team all-league honors last season at safety, saw limited time at running back last year. “Isaac is a special player and we will look to use him,” Weaver said. “He is a great teammate and he’ll do what’s asked of him.” Lucas feels his role on offense will increase. “I’ll be all over the field this year and I’m excited to see what the coaches come up with,” he said. “I want to help make big plays when we need them.” Expected to lead the line are seniors Ethan Hale and Justin Nelson. Hale, a two-way lineman, was first-team all-league on offense last year.

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........at Mansfield Senior Sept. 4 ..........vs. Canal Winchester Sept. 11 ...................at St. Charles *Sept. 18 ...................at Olentangy *Sept. 25...................vs. Delaware *Oct. 2 ...vs. Worthington Kilbourne *Oct. 9 .................at Mount Vernon *Oct. 16.................vs. New Albany *Oct. 23.........at Olentangy Orange *Oct. 30 ..........vs. Franklin Heights 2014 RESULTS (7-3 overall, 5-2 OCC-Capital) Mansfield Senior .............W, 33-21 Canal Winchester ............W, 30-14 St. Charles................L, 34-27 (OT) *Olentangy ........................L, 49-7 *Delaware ......................W, 35-14 *Worthington Kilbourne ....L, 23-13 *Mount Vernon ................W, 46-40 *New Albany ...................W, 30-14

DEFENSE

The starting line of Hale, seniors Chuka Akusoba and Charlie Klinedinst and junior Zack Pruyn is expected to lead the defense. “Those guys set the tone for us each week,” Weaver said. “It all starts with them and they are some of the hardest workers on the team.” Lucas will lead the secondary after recording 92 tackles and a team-high three interceptions last season. Senior cornerback Donovan Chhuom also returns to the secondary. The Golden Eagles did not return any starters at linebacker. And according to linebackers coach Luke Moore, the starting positions were “still up in the air” heading into the final week of the preseason. “We don’t know who we’re

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: J.D. Arbuckle (sr., 6-2, 210), Noah Dryden (jr., 5-11, 165), Will Young (jr., 6-0, 205) Running backs: Eric Deluse (sr., 6-1, 195), *Ryan Fitchpatrick (sr., 5-10, 225 ), *Shea Goss (so., 5-11, 200 ), *Drew Smith (sr., 5-9, 180) Receivers: Kito Akins (jr.,

*Olentangy Orange..........W, 35-10 *Franklin Heights.............W, 45-23 *League contest INSIDE THE GOLDEN EAGLES •Coach: Joe Weaver, seventh season •Top players: Chuka Akusoba (DL), Hayden Bowmar (P/WR), Donovan Chhuom (DB), Tommy Fleser (K), Ethan Hale (OL/DL), Charlie Klinedinst (LB), Isaac Lucas (WR/DB), Justin Nelson (OL/DL), Joe Schooley (OL) and Josh Seabrook (WR) •Key losses: Mikey Blackburn (DB), Alec Evans (TE), Conner Fry (DB), Christian Johnson (RB), Jacob Lucas (LB), Blake Marioth (LB), Joey Mazzi (WR), Joe Muench (WR), Justin Richards (OL), Brayden Shepherd (RB), Joe Spaulding (OL) and Jordan Wall (QB)

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(614) 784-0800 going to start there yet,” Moore said. “We might change this lineup four or five more times.” Among those vying for the linebacker spots were seniors Dalton Edwards, Jarrett Adkins and Joey Schooley and juniors Sam Boyd, Kaleb Kocak and Kobe Swackhammer.

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THE LINEUP

Lucas (sr., 6-2, 195), Cody Priestas (jr., 6-5, 215), Chase Adams (so. 6-0, 155) Tight ends: *Hayden D’Amico (sr., 6-1, 215), *Jacob Trott (sr., 6-2, 215) Linemen: *Ethan Hale (sr., 6-1, 265), *Wayne Lambert (sr., 6-1, 290), *Justin Nelson (sr., 6-5, 230), *Richard Kuts (sr., 6-0, 282), *Joey Schooley (sr., 6-3, 251), Tyler Hogg (sr., 6-1, 220), Jason Trainer (sr., 6-0, 200), Aaron Zieg (sr., 6-1, 334), Isaac Swartz (jr., 5-11, 265) Defense Linemen: *Chuka Akusoba (sr., 5-10, 260), *Hale, *Charlie Klinedinst (sr., 5-10, 190), *Zack Pruyn (jr., 6-4, 225), Sam Edwards (sr., 5-9, 215), Sandy Smith (sr., 5-8, 195), Daniel Zitello (sr., 6-1, 220) Linebackers: Jarrett Adkins (sr., 6-0, 190), Dalton Edwards (sr., 5-6, 165), Schooley, Sam Boyd (jr., 5-11, 170), Kaleb Kocak (jr., 6-1, 195), Kobe Swackhammer (jr., 6-3, 197), Brandon Mosher (so., 6-0, 193), Abe Myers (so., 6-2, 200) Secondary: *Donovan Chhuom (sr., 5-6, 160), *Lucas, Anthony Pisano (sr., 5-8, 170), Jesse Temple (sr., 5-8, 170), Roberto, Nick Ulery (jr., 6-0, 170), John West (jr., 5-10, 170) Special teams Kicker: *Tommy Fleser (sr., 6-5, 185) Punter: *Bowmar Returners: Chhuom, Lucas, Ulery, Weaver Long snapper: *Trott (*Denotes projected starter)

Senior Tommy Fleser returns as kicker after making 31 of 32 extra-point attempts and 13 of 18 field-goal tries last season, and Bowmar is back as punter

Offense Quarterbacks: *Michael Sensi (sr., 5-10, 186), John Sutton (so., 6-0, 185) Running backs: *Cole Weaver (sr., 5-7, 170), *Evan Garcia (jr., 5-8, 180), Philip Roberto (jr., 6-0, 170), Tyler Ronk (so., 6-1, 190) Receivers: *Hayden Bowmar (sr., 6-3, 195), *Josh Seabrook (sr., 6-3, 227), Isaac sports@thisweeknews.com

5-11, 165), *Ty Spires (sr., 511, 160), *Justin Wolfe (jr., 511, 155), *Tyler WoodWoodruff ( jr., 5-10, 155) Linemen: *Zeb Armstrong (jr., 6-0, 235), *Levi Brown (jr., 5-10, 245), *Dillon Denault (sr., 6-4, 240), *Luke Sheridan (jr., 6-1, 230), *Alex Shook (jr., 5-10, 235) Defense Linemen: Stephen Deluse

(jr., 5-11, 180), Denault, *Evan Highley (sr., 6-0, 200), Ryan Roseberry (sr., 5-10, 180), *Sheridan, Spencer Smith (so., 6-0, 210), Armstrong, Linebackers: *Deluse, *Ryan Edwards (sr., 6-2, 195), Goss, Kris Sullivan (jr., 6-1, 170), Secondary: *Akins, *Dryden, Trevor Monk (sr., 6-0, 185), *Smith, *Ashton Walker

SPECIAL TEAMS

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(sr., 5-6, 145), Wood-Woodruff Special teams Kicker: E. Deluse, Dryden, Young Punter: E. Deluse Returners: Dryden, Smith, Walker Long snapper: Isaac Goss (sr., 6-0, 210) (*Denotes projected starter) bemerine@thisweeknews.com

August 27, 2015

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

New Albany

Coach wants Eagles to play with ‘urgency’ By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM The New Albany High School football team’s 2014 season ended in an unfamiliar place – October. A four-year string of playoff appearances for New Albany, which has been to the postseason seven times since 2004, was snapped last year when the Eagles went 5-5 overall and 4-3 in the OCC-Capital Division. By the time this year’s Eagles open Aug. 28, at home against Reynoldsburg, thirdyear coach Pat Samanich might have preached one concept above any other. “Urgency,” Samanich said. “The kids need to have that sense of urgency and understand that every play matters. Every down matters. The little things matter. They matter in the classroom and the community. It’s got to be in your DNA, and last year, it wasn’t in the DNA until Week 10 and it showed.” New Albany took a threegame losing streak into the final week of the season, when it defeated Mount Vernon 35-20 to knock the Yellow Jackets out of a playoff spot. The Eagles finished 12th in Division II, Region 5, as the top eight teams made the postseason. “If we had played like that in Week 9, Week 8 or Week 7, we could have had the opportunity to play in the postseason,” Samanich said. “That was the most discouraging thing.” The Eagles, who finished fourth in the OCC-Capital behind eventual Division II state semifinalist Olentangy (7-0), begin league play Sept. 18 at home against Orange. The Eagles lost 28 players to graduation and, according to Samanich, turnout is down about 10 percent because of a $625 pay-to-participate fee. That does not dampen expectations, although New Albany must replace its starting quarterback and several holes throughout the team. “We have to learn the new environment and maintain the things we’ve been doing,” Samanich said. “Our biggest challenge is up front right now. It’s getting guys to fly to the

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...............vs. Reynoldsburg Sept. 4..........at Westerville Central Sept. 11 ........vs. Toledo St. Francis *Sept. 18......vs. Olentangy Orange *Sept. 25..........at Franklin Heights *Oct. 2 ......................vs. Delaware *Oct. 9.......................at Olentangy *Oct. 16....................at Big Walnut *Oct. 23..vs. Worthington Kilbourne *Oct. 30 ...............at Mount Vernon 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 4-3 OCC-Capital) Reynoldsburg.........W, 36-35 (2OT) Westerville Central ...........L, 43-13 DeSales.............................L, 34-9 *Olentangy Orange..........W, 38-21 *Franklin Heights.............W, 48-13 *Delaware ........................W, 34-7

rusher off the end.” Seniors Brennan Chiodo and Chase Forte and junior Bran Bush return in the secondary, and seniors Deritus Achaleke and Chris Lyles and junior Chris Kendricks are expected to lead the linebackers.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Zach Gallion (sr.), Nick Kendig (so.) August 27, 2015

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ball and step in from last year’s team to fill the holes we need filled. Our offensive line coaches do a great job of teaching them and getting them to go.”

OFFENSE

Junior Victor White returns to anchor the ground game. The 5-foot-9, 175-pound White can used in a fullback capacity, and will be complemented by senior Nat Henry and juniors Brandon DeHass and Zach Hall. White was the Eagles’ second-leading rusher last year, with 544 yards and seven touchdowns on 62 carries. Senior Casey Horch (6-2, 187) takes over at quarterback for 2015 graduate Jalen Ward, behind an offensive line featuring senior center Jacob Rocco and senior tackles Nate Evans and Danny Greenberg. Other candidates for playing time include junior center Jacob Ebright, and junior guards Aaron Jimenez and Anthony Jimenez. “This offense is based on the run. That’s definitely the way it should be. We want to get back to the New Albany way,”

Horch said. “I wasn’t as big last year as I am now. I gained about 20 pounds of muscle, so hopefully that makes me more of a threat.” Horch does have a few experienced receivers. Senior Justin Washington had seven catches for a team-high 147 yards and a touchdown last year, and other options include senior tight end Jake Simons, seniors Eric Klopfenstein and Garrison McDonald, and junior Sam Blaha.

DEFENSE

The linebacking corps returns the most experience on defense, with seniors Nick Dewberry and M.J. Jones and junior Davey Chamberlain the preseason favorites to start at middle, strong-side and weakside linebacker, respectively. Senior Sam Looker is able to play any of those positions, according to defensive coordinator Matthew Kidwell. “Nick is the leader of our defense. As he goes, our defense goes,” said Kidwell, adding that players’ time on offense will help dictate their amount of playing time on defense. “The secondary, we

Running backs: *Jay Kidd (sr.), *Terrell Washington (jr.), Khalil Jones (so.) Receivers: *Garrett Coleman (sr.), *Mason Hunter (sr.), *Cole Steele (sr.), Jones Linemen: *Liam Buchy (sr.), *Preston Byers (sr.), *Nicholas Green (jr.), *Chris Pack (sr.), *Justin Tullos (jr.) Defense Linemen: *Zach Henderson (sr.), *Dalton Jordan (sr.), *Tim Kallas (sr.), *Travis Sanders (jr.) Linebackers: *Deritus

Achaleke (sr.), *Chris Kendricks (jr.), *Chris Lyles (sr.) Secondary: *Brian Bush (jr.), *Brennan Chiodo (sr.), *Chase Forte (sr.), *Dakarey Williams (so.) Special teams Kicker: *Beelal Hasan (jr.) Punter: *Calvin Darko (sr.) Returners: *Hunter, *Jones Long snapper: *Brett Brilski (sr.) (*Denotes projected starter) bemerine@thisweeknews.com

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year. “He’s discouraged and we’re sad for him. He wants to be back,” Samanich said. “We’ll don’t have a lot of experience, see what he decides to do.” but we have very, very good athletes. They can defend the THE LINEUP pass but they like to come up Offense and hit and be aggressive as Quarterbacks: *Casey Horch well.” (sr., 6-2, 187), Tyler MarThe defensive line will be tinkovich (so., 6-0, 140), Zack led by senior Jake Strahler and Thomas (so., 5-5, 125) junior Tommy Pollack on the Running backs: *Zach Hall ends, Simons at tackle and sen- (jr., 5-8, 170), *Victor White ior Jordan Lobel at nose guard. (jr., 5-9, 175), Nat Henry (sr., Expected starters in the sec- 6-3, 225), Brandon DeHass (jr., ondary are McDonald and 6-1, 200) Washington at the corners, with Receivers: *Eric KlopfenKlopfenstein and Blaha as stein (sr., 6-4, 185), *Justin safeties. Washington (sr., 5-11, 180), Garrison McDonald (sr., 6-1, SPECIAL TEAMS 185), Sam Blaha (jr., 5-11, 173) Tight end: *Jake Simons (sr., Junior Zach Shirk will start the season as New Albany’s 6-5, 215) Linemen: *Nate Evans (sr., kicker, and junior Drew Dingman will be the punter, as the 5-9, 220), *Dylan Greenberg team awaits the potential return (sr., 6-1, 225), *Tommy Lee (sr., 6-2, 240), *Jacob Rocco of senior Joey Rolwing. According to Samanich, (sr., 5-11, 225), *Aaron Rolwing – New Albany’s start- Jimenez (jr., 5-5, 190), Jordan ing kicker since the end of his Lobel (sr., 5-11, 235), Jacob freshman season – was side- Ebright (jr., 5-11, 200), lined by mononucleosis in late Anthony Jimenez (jr., 5-5, 180) July and is not expected to Defense Linemen: *Lobel, *Simons, return until the start of the reg*Jake Strahler (sr., 6-2, 205), ular season, if at all. Rolwing made seven of 13 *Tommy Pollack (jr., 6-4, 195), field-goal attempts and 30 of Henry, Rocco Linebackers: *Nick Dew32 extra-point attempts last

Eric Klopfenstein will play at wide receiver and at safety for the Eagles, who went 5-5 a year ago. KYLE ROBERTSON/THISWEEKSPORTS

CARDINALS FROM >> 26

*Olentangy ......................L, 48-14 *Big Walnut......................L, 30-14 *Worthington Kilbourne ....L, 34-14 *Mount Vernon ................W, 35-20 *League contest INSIDE THE EAGLES •Coach: Pat Samanich, third season •Top players: Nick Dewberry (LB/TE), Casey Horch (QB), Eric Klopfenstein (WR/DB), M.J. Jones (LB), Joey Rolwing (K/P), Justin Washington (WR/DB) and Victor White (RB) •Key losses: Xzavier Brandon (OL/DL), Paul Kalec (OL/DL), Tyler Pearson (OL/DL), Jack Schroer (OL/DL), Christo Semertsidis (RB), James Smith (RB) and Jalen Ward (QB/DB)

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berry (sr., 6-1, 210), *M.J. Jones (sr., 6-1, 210), *Davey Chamberlain (jr., 5-11, 185), Alex Boffo (sr., 5-9, 160), Evans, Sam Looker (sr., 6-0, 205), DeHass Secondary: *Blaha, *Klopfenstein, *McDonald, *Washington, Jeremiah Kirven (sr., 6-1, 180), Kris Thompson (sr., 6-0, 165), Kaleb Thompson (sr., 5-8, 170), Geno Zappitelli (jr., 5-11, 175) Special teams Kicker: *Zach Shirk (jr., 60, 210), Joey Rolwing (sr., 64, 190) Punter: *Drew Dingman (jr., 5-10, 165), DeHass Returners: Blaha, Hall, Trent Twinam (sr., 5-11, 185), White Long snapper: Lobel (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com

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OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Mount Vernon

New coach faces challenge By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM New Mount Vernon High School football coach Justin Todd rattles off the challenges facing this year’s Yellow Jackets team with some resignation that betrays the challenge for which he ended a wildly successful three-year run at nearby Loudonville. Mount Vernon returns only one starter on offense in senior wide receiver Nate Davis and two on defense in Davis – who plays cornerback – and two-year starting linebacker Ethan Rummel, also a senior. No seniors are expected to start on the offensive line in Todd’s spread scheme, a considerable departure from the power offense of recent years that focused on running back J.D. Orr, who gained more than 5,000 yards from scrimmage in his career and now plays baseball at Wright State. He was district Offensive Player of the Year last season and first-team all-state. The Yellow Jackets, who lost their final four games last year to finish 5-5 overall and 3-4 in the OCC-Capital Division, have about 70 players in the program. “It’s better than what they have had here, but if you look at our actual roster, we only have 15 players returning from last year’s varsity team,” said Todd, whose team opens Aug. 28 at home against Marion Harding. “I think the freshman team ended up with 13 players, so you are talking about 28 kids. We have 40-some kids who have never played high school football.” Perhaps Todd’s most telling

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At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ............vs. Marion Harding Sept. 4..........................at Newark Sept. 11 .......at Mansfield Madison *Sept. 18.........vs. Franklin Heights *Sept. 25..........at Worth. Kilbourne *Oct. 2...........at Olentangy Orange *Oct. 9.....................vs. Big Walnut *Oct. 16 ....................vs. Delaware *Oct. 23.....................at Olentangy *Oct. 30.................vs. New Albany 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 3-4 OCC-Capital) Central Crossing ..............L, 58-27 Marengo Highland...........W, 60-13 Mansfield Madison..........W, 27-21 *Franklin Heights.............W, 41-22

*Worthington Kilbourne ...W, 34-27 *Olentangy Orange..........W, 41-28 *Big Walnut......................L, 46-40 *Delaware .......................L, 36-28 *Olentangy ......................L, 49-35 *New Albany....................L, 35-20 *League contest INSIDE THE YELLOW JACKETS •Coach: Justin Todd, first season •Top players: Owen Carpenter (WR/DB), Nate Davis (WR/DB), Freddy Hart (RB/LB), Jared Robinson (WR/LB/K), Ethan Rummel (RB/LB) and Mason Williams (QB) •Key losses: Jeep Cochran (OL/DL), Alec Curts (OL/DL), Ryan Fitzgerald (QB) and J.D. Orr (RB)

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(614) 784-0800 observation after a recent practice was that he might have more two-way players at Mount Vernon than he did at Loudonville, a Division VI school where he went 30-6. The Redbirds averaged 47 points per game last year and lost to eventual state runnerup Kirtland in the Region 19 final. “We will have to interchange guys a lot in order to keep them fresh,” Todd said. A 35-20 loss at New Albany in the season finale last year was the knockout blow to Mount Vernon’s hopes of making the playoffs for just the second time and first since 1993. The Yellow Jackets finished fifth in the OCC-Capital behind champion Olentangy (7-0). Mount Vernon finished ninth in Division II, Region 5, .75 of a point behind eighthplace Ashland as the top eight teams made the playoffs. The Yellow Jackets’ OCCCapital opener is Sept. 18 at home against Franklin Heights. Mount Vernon is leaving the OCC after this school year for the Ohio Cardinal Conference. “We haven’t talked about (last year) much, but the coaches say ‘5-5’ to get us motivated,” said Rummel, a 5-foot-10, 175-pound senior. “They keep reminding us. If we’re not doing well, they will just say ‘5-5’ and that does the trick.”

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See our ad on pg. 91 offense around Davis, a 5-10, 165-pound senior who caught 35 passes for 750 yards and five touchdowns last year. He was named second-team alldistrict. Senior Mason Williams was the favorite to be starting quarterback in the preseason behind an offensive line expected to feature two junior tackles and three sophomore interior linemen. Juniors Ben Cook and Greg Wyatt will play left and right tackle, respectively, with 6-2, 260pound sophomore Josh Egan expected to start at center. Rummel and junior Freddie Hart will play running back. “We probably ran the ball 65 percent of the time in Loudonville and threw a lot of screens. We wanted to control the clock,” Todd said. “But coaches have to adapt to their personnel, and looking at where our strengths are we are very young and inexperienced on the offensive line. … “I think Mason is ready … and has done a nice job. He is managing the offense how we want him to. He has a strong arm and a quick release. He gets the ball out on time, which we need him to do.”

and sophomore Jack Rummel in the middle. Linemen, who Todd said will be interchangeable between the ends and tackles, include Cook, Wyatt and sophomores Hudson Dennis and Nate Orr. Safeties include senior Avery Fenton and junior Cody Valrance. Juniors Jacob Tiell and Tristan Little lead a deep group of cornerbacks. “We have a lot of different stuff coverage-wise; five (defensive backs) instead of just four and … just six in the box instead of seven,” Rummel said. “It’s a lot to learn.” Davis said his team expected such growing pains. “When (Todd) first came here, he said there will be a Dylan Akers returns at quarterback for the Falcons after starting lot of different things going the final four games last season. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS on, and there are,” Davis said. “We are still struggling a bit.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

FROM >> 32

Robinson, who Todd said is one of several Yellow JackOFFENSE ets in his first year of playing The Falcons will run a mulfootball, will be the starting kicker and is vying for the tiple-spread attack and have worked in the weight room to punting job with Valrance. avoid the injuries of last season. THE LINEUP Franklin Heights had trouOffense ble keeping healthy players on Q u a r t e r b a c k s : *Mason the field a year ago, and they Williams (sr., 6-3, 180), Jaxon lost their quarterback, 2015 Gregory (so., 5-9, 175) graduate Ray Spangler, to a R u n n i n g b a c k s : *Ethan knee injury in a season-openRummel (sr., 5-10, 175), Fred- ing 26-20 victory over Columdie Hart (jr., 6-0, 195) bus West. Receivers: *Owen CarpenKeeping healthy running ter (sr., 5-10, 175), *Nate backs also proved difficult. Davis (sr., 5-10, 165), *Jared “We lost Ray in the opener Robinson (sr., 6-1, 210), and we didn’t play with the *Kaden Daniels (so., 6-1, 175), same running back two games Avery Fenton (sr., 5-10, 175), in a row all year,” said Varney, Tristian Little (jr., 5-10, 165), who hired former Central Jacob Tiell (jr., 6-0, 175), Crossing coach Rick Vaughn Cody Valrance (jr., 5-11, 175) as offensive coordinator. “I Linemen: *Ben Cook (jr., think we can run the ball this 6-2, 240), *Greg Wyatt (jr., year. We don’t have to rely on 6-0, 215), *Josh Egan (so., 6- passing every down.” 2, 260), *Hunter Kiser (so., A big reason for the opti5-8, 190), *Nate Orr (so., 5- mism surrounding the running 10, 210), Hudson Dennis (so., game is the addition of junior 5-8, 215) Brendon Knox, who transferred Defense from Ready. The 6-0, 205Linemen: *Cook, *Dennis, pounder rushed for 901 yards *Wyatt, Orr and nine touchdowns on 137 Linebackers: *Robinson, carries last season. *E. Rummel, *Hart, Jack The Falcons also return junRummel (so., 6-0, 185) ior quarterback Dylan Akers, Secondary: *Daniels, who started the final four *Davis, *Bryior Burney (jr., games a year ago. 5-9, 160), *Tiell, *Valrance, Varney is excited about the DEFENSE Carpenter, Fenton, Jarrod potential of his offensive line The Yellow Jackets are Laslo (jr., 5-8, 155), Little with senior tackle Tony Johnmoving from a 4-3 defense to Special teams son (6-6, 320), senior center a 3-3 look. Kicker: *Robinson Christian Scase (6-2, 275), junLast year, Mount Vernon Punter: Robinson, Valrance ior guard Austin Moore (6-0, allowed 46 or more points Returners: Carpenter, 282), sophomore tackle Parker three times and never gave up Daniels, Davis McGlothlin (6-0, 290) and OFFENSE fewer than 13 in a game. sophomore guard Jaden ProfLong snapper: Gregory With youth or inexperience Rummel is joined at line(*Denotes projected starter) fitt (6-0, 220). at almost every position, backer by senior Jared RobinDawkins (honorable menMount Vernon will center its son on the outside and Hart dpurpura@thisweeknews.com tion all-league) returns at wide receiver after filling in at quarterback and running back last Soccer, volleyball, football, dance, bowling, softball and more! season. Check out the Youth Sports Spotlight on the homepage of ThisWeekSPORTS.com

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43 points per game a year ago. “We’re trying to put our kids in a sound position on the field,” said Varney, whose team used a 4-2-5 scheme last season. “Plus we have Seth at safety, which could be his strongest position.” Joining Dawkins as a returning starter in the secondary is junior James Morgan III. Seniors K’Shawn Agee and Joey Slark return on the line, with senior Davon Moore and sophomore Eddie Ferguson back at linebacker. Junior Dreston Hawthorne, a movein from Moneta (Va.) Staunton River, has impressed Varney at linebacker.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Dylan Akers (jr., 6-0, 190) Running backs: *Brendon Knox (jr., 6-0, 205) Receivers: *Seth Dawkins (sr., 6-3, 205), Orlando Wilborn (sr., 6-1, 161), *James Morgan III (jr., 6-0, 165), Tyler Rhodes (jr., 5-6, 163) Linemen: *Tony Johnson (sr., 6-6, 320), *Christian Scase (sr., 6-2, 275), *Austin Moore (jr., 6-0, 282), *Parker McGlothlin (so., 6-0, 290), *Jaden Proffitt (so., 6-0, 220) Defense Linemen: *K’Shawn Agee (sr., 5-11, 230), Scase, *Slark (sr., 5-9, 272), Moore, McGlothlin Linebackers: *Davon Moore (sr., 6-2, 239), Dreston Hawthorne (jr., 6-0, 185), *Eddie Ferguson (so., 6-0, 185) Secondary: Dawkins, *Trevell Walls (sr., 5-10, 170), Morgan, *Troy Williams (so., 5-8, 140) Special teams Kicker: *Paulino Punter: *Dawkins Returners: Dawkins, DEFENSE Williams Franklin Heights, which runs Long snappers: Walls, Akers a 4-3 alignment, is counting on (*Denotes projected starter) a big improvement from its defensive unit after giving up shennen@thisweeknews.com August 27, 2015

COVER S TORY

QUARTERBACKS

FROM >> 8

finished with 574 yards. “He’s gotten better already since last year,” Panthers coach John Santagata said of Powers, who has offers from Notre Dame College and Ohio Dominican. “I think Nick would be a good fit in any system. Particularly for our system, you need a good athlete, and if you can run and pass, the system works better. To be a quarterback in our style, you’re doing so much more than handing the ball off. You’re adjusting the plays, and (Powers) has the ability to do that.” Haber could be considered a hybrid of the skills possessed by Hoak and Powers, albeit in a different system. The 6-2, 190-pound Haber took over midway through his sophomore season and last fall completed 203 of 331 passes for 2,785 yards with 23 touchdowns and nine interceptions as the Braves went 13-1. Haber also showed his athleticism by rushing for eight touchdowns a year ago. “At the beginning of the season, I don’t try to run as much, but I’ll run on a scramble,” Haber said. “I like to roll out more as the season goes on.” “In my 17 years as a head coach, he’s the best I’ve ever coached at the quarterback position,” Braves coach Mark Solis said. “He makes great decisions and understands our offense. We put a lot on him to make decisions, and he’s played in a lot of big games for us.”

Finding the right fit

Coffman, Darby and Olentangy are among the many teams that run the same offensive system at the middle school, freshman and junior varsity levels as they do at the varsity level. Mark Crabtree didn’t necessarily set out for the Coffman program to become the area’s No. 1 quarterback factory when he took over as coach in 2001, but his offense developed into what it has become when players such as 2003 graduate Brady Quinn and 2004 graduate Jack Rafferty came through and showed strong abilities to make plays in the pocket. “One thing I will say is, I think we’ve done a good job of developing our quarterbacks,” Crabtree said. “Generally speaking, option teams have really good option quarterbacks. Schools that throw the ball a lot tend to find those types of players (who fit that system).” Among the area teams joining Darby as an option-based offense are DeSales and

Hilliard Davidson. According to Santagata, the biggest difference between his program’s offense and the one run by Davidson coach Brian White is its emphasis on the option itself. Santagata compares the Panthers’ triple option to that of the Naval Academy, where the quarterback’s No. 1 job is to run the ball while showing an ability to throw. He describes Davidson’s scheme as more of a power running game. “There are so many different intricacies in option football,” Santagata said. DeSales coach Ryan Wiggins agrees with that assessment. A former Stallions player who has led the program since 2007, Wiggins has seen quarterbacks of various sizes and characteristics run DeSales’ option for most of the past three decades. A year ago, DeSales’ quarterback, 2015 graduate Josh DeLozier, led the team in rushing while attempting just 57 passes. Some seasons, such as when current Ohio State running back Warren Ball was a senior in 2011, the Stallions focused more on a power running game. “The main thing for us is that we have to have a quarterback with the ability to make good decisions and take care of the football,” Wiggins said. “And you’ve got to have someone who is tough physically and mentally tough. With the triple option, when you’re athletic and tall, it’s all icing on the cake. The fact that people just don’t see it week in, week out helps.” Wiggins estimates that about 70 percent of the Stallions’ opponents last season used a variation of the spread offense, which typically features a quarterback in the shotgun formation with three, four or, occasionally, five wide receivers. Regardless of what offensive system a team runs, Marion-Franklin coach Brian Haffele believes the end desire is similar. “We just want to get our best athletes in space,” Haffele said.

Battle for supremacy

R.J. Williams, see time behind center. Olentangy Liberty, which finished 9-3 and won its first postseason game since 2005 in the Region I playoffs, returns senior Alex Lando, who passed for 2,045 yards and 22 touchdowns and made special mention all-district. Central Crossing made its first postseason appearance last season and returns junior Deric Williamson, who passed for 1,261 yards and 11 touchdowns and was named special mention all-district. Gahanna senior Mason Blancett started all but one game and was honorable mention all-district. Add in the fact that Davidson senior Jack Klein started the first eight games last season and Westerville Central senior Gavin Lyon started four games before each sustained a season-ending injury, and it’s stacking up to be a special season at quarterback. “With the evolution of so many teams running wideopen games, (quarterback) has become even more important than it ever has been,” Johnson said. It also has added to the excitement. “One thing I’ll say is that I’ve never enjoyed coaching offense as much as I do now,” Johnson said. If not for the development of the prep offense in recent years, Haber might not have stuck with the sport. After playing for the Braves’ freshman team, he wasn’t planning to return to the program as a sophomore but was talked into giving football another try by Solis, who had taken over during that offseason. What Haber saw – an offense that he describes as “up-tempo” with a goal of running a play “every 19 seconds” – helped him to fall back in love with the sport. Creating new plays seemingly on a weekly basis, as Olentangy attempts to do, is what could be the wave of the future as teams attempt to measure up. “We want to be extremely difficult to prepare for,” Solis said. “Everything we do is built into tempo and in being as fast as we can. When you’re able to go at a high tempo and change formations, that makes you that much more difficult to defend. “I spent three days at Auburn over my spring break. We do it because if there’s something we can learn, we’re going to do it. That’s what’s fun about coaching. You can always learn something.”

Beyond Haber, Hoak and Powers, there’s no shortage of quarterback talent returning in central Ohio. Of the eight area teams that made the Division I playoffs last season, only Pickerington Central had a senior primarily play the position. The Tigers actually had two seniors, 2015 graduates Matt Martello and julrey@thisweeknews.com

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OCC-CAPITAL D IVISION

Olentangy Orange

Seniors setting tone for Pioneers’ season At a glance *Delaware ......................W, 13-10 *Franklin Heights ............W, 42-41 *Big Walnut .....................L, 35-10 *Worthington Kilbourne ......L, 42-0 *League contest INSIDE THE PIONEERS •Coach: Zebb Schroeder, second season •Top players: Matthew Collins (WR/DB), Bobby Eleyet (RB/DB), Tyler Lichter (RB/DB), Zach Pfeifer (RB/DB), Michael Sargent (WR/DB),Hunter Shepherd (WR/DB), Blake Skuratowicz (RB/LB/K) andAlbertVanFossen (OL/DL) •Key losses: Nick Buening (WR/LB), Sam Damko (OL/DL), Nick Lee (OL/DL), Kenny MacMillan (OL/DL), Kyle Pellington (OL),Will Phillis (QB/DB) and Roarke Vaile-James (RB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ..........at Olentangy Liberty Sept. 4 ......................at Watterson Sept. 11 ......vs. Westerville Central *Sept. 18 ................at New Albany *Sept. 25..................vs. Olentangy *Oct. 2................vs. Mount Vernon *Oct. 9 .......................at Delaware *Oct. 16 ..........vs. Franklin Heights *Oct. 23 ..................vs. Big Walnut *Oct. 30...at Worthington Kilbourne 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 2-5 OCC-Capital) Olentangy Liberty...............L, 38-0 Milford ...............................W, 7-6 Hilliard Bradley ...............W, 21-13 *New Albany....................L, 38-21 *Olentangy ........................L, 36-0 *Mount Vernon.................L, 41-28

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Hunter Shepherd has had his fill of losing. Two years ago, the senior wide receiver was part of an Olentangy Orange High School football team dominated by sophomores that finished 1-9 overall. Last season, however, the Pioneers finished 4-6 overall, and now they hope to take an even bigger step as the once-downtrodden sophomores enter their senior season. “There’s no worse feeling in the world than going to school on Monday morning after you had lost over the weekend,” Shepherd said. “Being able to lose that feeling is what we’ve worked for since the end of last season.” The Pioneers tied Delaware for sixth (2-5) in the OCC-Capital Division behind champion Olentangy (7-0). “After going 1-9 as sophomores and 4-6 last season, we have a little bit of a chip on our shoulders,” said senior linebacker and fullback Blake Skuratowicz, who was special mention all-district and honorable mention all-league. “We don’t

want to let teams walk all over us. We strive to be better.” “We’re a lot bigger and we know how fast the (varsity) game is. We want to continue that improvement.” Second-year coach Zebb Schroeder has noticed the drive within this senior class. “I really like our senior leadership because they set a good example, not only on the football field but in the school and community as well,” said Schroeder, whose team has moved up to Division I, Region 1 from Division 2, Region 5. “Their actions are all in line with the team goals of winning an OCC title and going to the playoffs. It’s easy to say that, but their actions are in line with reaching those goals.” Schroeder said one of the biggest changes has been their inclusive nature during workouts. “In the past, the players weren’t passionate about lifting as a team, but that has changed,” said Schroeder, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Olentangy Liberty. “They would go off to their separate pods and work out with their friends. But this group tried to get everyone involved and make them feel like they were part of the team,

not just a bunch of seniors being together and a bunch of sophomores on the other side of the room. They worked together as a team like they will on the field.”

OFFENSE

The Pioneers return seven players on offense and will implement a spread alignment to maximize their quickness, but they must replace junior quarterback Will Phillis after his transfer to Hilliard Bradley. Phillis was 96 of 172 passing for 1,216 yards with 11 touchdowns and 7 interceptions and was honorable mention alldistrict. Junior D.J. Dayhuff saw action in four games at quarterback last season, finishing 7-for-17 passing for 77 yards and one interception. He has been pushed in practice by sophomore Luke Schmeling. Returning starters on offense are senior tailback Tyler Lichter, junior tight end Emerson Milner, and senior wide receivers Matthew Collins, Michael Sargent and Shepherd. Back on the line are seniors Jake Fisher and Albert VanFossen. “We have a lot of speed and quickness

PIONEERS >> 39

Olentangy

Braves look to build on last year’s success By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Neither Chris Crumb nor any of his Olentangy High School football teammates would give back last year’s run to a Division II state semifinal for anything. But Crumb and the Braves – who went 13-1 overall and 7-0 in the OCC-Capital Division as part of their first undefeated regular season since 1957 and the program’s best season overall – acknowledge a marked difference between preseason practices this sea-

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son and last. “Now that we know we can do that, the expectation is there. We want to live up to what everybody says we’re supposed to be, which I don’t really like,” said Crumb, a 6-foot-1, 255pound defensive tackle and fullback who committed to Ball State in June. “I like being the underdog and coming out of nowhere. I’m not sure I like being top dog. It’s easier to get complacent, and I don’t like that. But this is one thing I love about this team – every single day, guys are fighting for their spots. They’re bulldogs and driving to get that spot because they know they can lose it in a second. “We definitely have an attitude. I love the nastiness of the hitting. You have to keep your head up and watch yourself. If somebody gets a chance to knock you on your butt, they’re going to do it. I love that kind of attitude, that in-your-face kind of a team.” Crumb is one of three Division I commits for the Braves, along with senior wide receiver Obi Anunike (Toledo) and senior offensive lineman Luke Campbell (Purdue). “It was really nice to get that decision made,” said the 6-4, 275-pound Campbell. “Now I get to just play and enjoy my senior season.” Olentangy averaged 42.3 points per game and allowed 13.7 during a 13-0 start that included its first league championship. The Braves also earned the top seed in the Division II, Region 5 playoffs and lost to eventual state champion Cincinnati La Salle 48-13 in a state semifinal. Not that any of that will mat-

At a glance *Worthington Kilbourne ...W, 54-21 *Mount Vernon ................W, 49-35 *Delaware ........................W, 36-0 PLAYOFFS Ashland ............................W, 35-6 Wooster............................W, 31-6 Dublin Scioto ..................W, 41-29 Cincinnati La Salle ...........L, 48-13 *League contest INSIDE THE BRAVES •Coach: Mark Solis, third season •Top players: Obi Anunike (WR), Chris Crumb (RB/DL), Alex Draime (LB/LS), Jimmy Elmurr (LB), Deeb Haber (QB), Jake O’Donnell (WR) and Seth O’Neal (WR/DB) •Key losses: Drew Batt (WR), Jake Didion (LB), Dalton Endres (DL), Anthony Golden (RB), Connor Slade (DL) and Nick Tarpey (DB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...........at Westerville South Sept. 4 ..........vs. Olentangy Liberty Sept. 11........at Pickerington North *Sept. 18.................vs. Big Walnut *Sept. 25 .......at Olentangy Orange *Oct. 2 ............vs. Franklin Heights *Oct. 9...................vs. New Albany *Oct. 15...at Worthington Kilbourne *Oct. 23..............vs. Mount Vernon *Oct. 30......................at Delaware 2014 RESULTS (13-1 overall, 7-0 OCC-Capital) Westerville South ..............W, 38-6 Olentangy Liberty.....W, 35-34 (OT) Lexington........................W, 52-13 *Big Walnut.......................W, 49-7 *Olentangy Orange............W, 35-6 *Franklin Heights ..............W, 45-7 *New Albany ...................W, 48-14

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ter to the Braves – who have moved up to Division I, Region 1 – when they open Friday, Aug. 28, at Westerville South. They begin OCC-Capital play Sept. 18 at home against Big Walnut. “We had a good offseason,” third-year coach Mark Solis said. “Right now, we’re just doing a lot of evaluation. It’s not even about what people expect. What we did last year is over with. The big thing is embracing the process and finding out our personnel.”

full year as a starter, Solis alluded to installing several new packages that will allow Haber to “drive the car, so to speak.” Haber completed 204 of 328 passes for 2,784 yards with 23 touchdowns and nine interceptions, and was named first-team all-league and all-district. “He knows the offense almost as well as I do,” Solis said. “That makes life easier for me.” Junior Cam Kennedy, a lacrosse player, was the frontrunner throughout the preseaOFFENSE son to replace 2015 graduate With increased trust in sen- Anthony Golden as the feaior quarterback Deeb Haber, tured back. Golden rushed for who is beginning his second 1,975 yards and 33 touchdowns FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

Olentangy’s Chris Crumb has 10 touchdowns in his career at fullback, but he’ll make most of his noise at defensive tackle for the Braves. MIKE MUNDEN/THISWEEKSPORTS

on 302 carries. Crumb, who has 10 career touchdowns at fullback, occasionally will see time on offense, as will senior linebacker Jimmy Elmurr. “No one knows about (Kennedy) yet, but he’ll be a weapon,” Haber said.

Anunike, who caught 51 passes for 606 yards and four touchdowns, is expected to miss at least the season opener with a broken collarbone suffered in July. Seniors Jake O’Donnell and Seth O’Neal

BRAVES >> 39 August 27, 2015

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

PIONEERS

FROM >> 38

at the skill positions,” Schroeder said. “We need to get the ball to these kids so they can make plays.” Collins (honorable mention all-district) had 27 catches for 405 yards and five touchdowns. Lichter (special mention allleague) missed three games with injuries, but totaled 431 yards rushing and four touchdowns. Shepherd broke his right leg in week 5 during a 36-0 loss to Olentangy, but finished with 15 catches for 213 yards. He had five receptions for 135 yards in a 38-21 loss to New Albany. Sargent (30 catches, 275 yards) set a team record with 11 receptions in a 13-10 loss to Delaware.

DEFENSE

Skuratowicz, who plays linebacker in the 4-3 Orange defensive scheme, totaled 83 tackles with two forced fumbles, one interception, three sacks and six tackles for a loss a year ago. “The biggest thing we have to do is have trust in our team-

mates,” Skuratowicz said. “You have to trust that your teammate is going to do what they’re supposed to do on every play. You can’t worry about them. You just have to stay focused on your assignment.” Junior Christian Albertini also returns at linebacker, with seniors Tyler Houston and Nic Melsop back on the line. Seniors Josh Forrester and Michael Kowalski and junior Zach Pfeifer return in the secondary. “We’ve had some pretty good competition on the defensive side of the ball,” Schroeder said. “This may give us an edge because the kids already are already hungry to be great.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: J.D. Dayhuff (jr. 6-2, 175), Luke Schmeling (so., 6-0, 165) Running backs: *Tyler Lichter (sr., 6-0, 190), *Blake Skuratowicz (sr., 6-2, 229), Bobby Eleyet (jr., 5-10, 175), Zach Pfeifer (jr., 5-9, 160) Receivers: *Matthew Collins

(sr., 5-7, 165), Michael Sargent (sr., 5-10, 156), *Hunter Shepherd (sr., 5-9, 155), Sam Almond (jr., 5-11, 160), Trevor Collins (jr., 5-10, 165), Garet Delelles (jr., 6-1, 165) Tight end: *Emerson Milner (jr., 6-3, 210) Linemen: Nic Melsop (sr., 6-5, 230), Jake Fisher (sr., 61, 235), Tyler Houston (sr., 63, 245), *Albert VanFossen (sr., 6-3, 245), *Zach Skidmore (jr., 6-2, 235), Jack Houston (so., 5-11, 205), Nathan Parker (so., 6-0, 203) Defense Linemen: *Tyler Houston, *Melsop, Matt Parker (sr., 61, 180), VanFossen, Mitch Clifford (jr., 6-0, 277), T.J. Coates (jr., 6-3, 185) Linebackers: *Skuratowicz, Christian Albertini (jr., 5-10, 185), Delelles, Graham Starn (so., 5-11, 167) Secondary: Matthew Collins, *Josh Forrester (sr., 5-10, 165), *Michael Kowalski (sr., 5-10, 165), Lichter, Almond, Steven Collins (jr., 6-0, 177), Alex Kunchal (jr., 5-10, 175), Eleyet, *Pfeifer

Orange’s Matthew Collins had 27 receptions for 405 yards and five touchdowns in being named honorable mention all-district. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

Special teams Kicker: Delelles, Joe Metcalf (jr., 5-10, 150), Grant Simon (so., 5-9, 145) Punter: Almond, Neer, Schmeling Returners: Matthew Collins,

COOPER

FROM >> 9

“Jonathon’s a man, one of the best in the country for a reason: He works his butt off,” coach Bruce Ward said. “His size alone is great, but he’s also quick as a cat and he’s obviously a lot bigger than last year. It felt like he got an inch taller. The elite (camp) circuit has taught him a lot.” Although some athletes who commit as early as Cooper don’t continue to attend camps during the offseason before their senior season, Cooper attended the Best of the Midwest Combine in February in Indianapolis where he received the defensive line MVP honor and ran 4.62 seconds in the 40 yards. He then participated in a camp in Atlanta in March, which featured numerous players who likely will land at SEC schools. Cooper also attended Ohio State’s camp

in June and has traveled to Oregon and Baltimore for camps. “I did visit a lot of camps,” Cooper said. “I did it just to be active and to see who the best players were in the country. They were really just combines. I learned there are a lot of good players out there.” He also spent time learning more about the craft of being a defensive lineman. On July 25 at Ohio State’s Friday Night Lights camp for elite college prospects, Cooper worked extensively with Buckeyes defensive line and assistant head coach Larry Johnson. While Johnson was at Penn State from 2000-13, he helped develop future NFL players such as Tamba Hali, Devon Still and eventual No. 1 overall draft choice Courtney Brown. “They showed me a lot of different techniques (at the camps I attended), but

the biggest one was meeting with coach Johnson at the Ohio State camp,” Cooper said. For fellow defensive players like junior linebacker Cael Baker, having a player like Cooper to work with adds to the hope the Lions have of again being in position to win the OCC-Ohio Division title. Last season, Gahanna and Pickerington Central were tied for first in the league heading into the final week of the regular season, when the Tigers won 34-6 to capture the title at 7-0 while the Lions settled for second (6-1). “Coop is Coop, and he deserves all of the attention,” Baker said. “He’s quick and strong, and he’s so good with his hands. He’ll beat you off the ball and punish your quarterback. It’s a sight to see.” julrey@thisweeknews.com

Lichter, Eleyet, Pfeifer Long snappers: Melsop, Michael Trombetti (sr., 6-0, 190) (*Denotes projected starter)

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BRAVES FROM >> 38

are expected to be among Haber’s other top targets.

DEFENSE

Crumb, who had 123 tackles and 11 sacks last year, is the only returning starter on the defensive line, which lost district Defensive Player of the Year Connor Slade (155 tackles, 21 sacks). Slade’s younger brother, sophomore defensive lineman Jacob Slade, already has been offered by Toledo, according to Solis. “We have depth and we’re just trying to solidify who is where,” Crumb said. “What’s the best combination? We all know every spot. We can be interchangeable.” But the unit returns plenty of experience elsewhere, led by Elmurr at linebacker, where he had a team-high 222 tackles with three interceptions, August 27, 2015

three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, as well as seniors Alex Draime (113 tackles, two sacks) and Jacob Fleck (74 tackles). O’Neal had 52 tackles and a team-high six interceptions at defensive back. Seniors Thomas Beckman, David Campbell, Austin Francis and Dubem Okafor are among those vying for starts in the secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Olentangy returns senior kicker Jacob Bell, who made 10 of 15 field goals and all 67 of his point-after attempts last year, and senior punter Jake Jenkusky, who averaged 35.3 yards in 30 attempts. Draime will be the Braves’ long snapper, and Beckman is the holder. “I’ll put our kicking game up against anybody,” Solis said. “Some teams this time of year are trying to find one kicker.

We have two I trust.”

THE LINEUP

(sr., 6-3, 245), *Crumb, *Jacob Slade (so., 6-3, 235), Nic Jesus (sr., 5-10, 250), Trevor Truvelle (jr., 6-2, 215) Linebackers: *Alex Draime (sr., 6-0, 215), *Jimmy Elmurr (sr., 6-0, 235), *Jacob Fleck (sr., 5-9, 185), Max Hall (jr., 5-10, 165), Dylan Hall (so., 5-10, 170), Peyton Hall (so., 5-10, 155) Secondary: *Thomas Beckman (sr., 5-9, 170), *O’Neal, David Campbell (sr., 5-9, 160), Austin Francis (sr., 5-11, 190), Dubem Okafor (sr., 5-9, 170) Special Teams Kicker: *Jacob Bell (sr., 60, 195), Josh Petrone (so., 55, 130) Punter: *Jake Jenkusky (sr., 6-2, 175) Returners: O’Donnell, O’Neal Long snapper: *Draime, James Rosenberry (so., 5-10, 165) (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Deeb Haber (sr., 6-2, 190), Sam Durst (jr., 6-1, 170) Running backs: *Cam Kennedy (jr., 5-8, 190), *Deonta Mack (jr., 5-10, 160), Chris Crumb (sr., 6-1, 255), Ali Iverson (so., 5-7, 150) Receivers: *Obi Anunike (sr., 6-4, 210), *Jake O’Donnell (sr., 6-0, 180), *Seth O’Neal (sr., 5-11, 195), Christian McFarland (sr., 5-8, 170), Derrick Wyche (sr., 6-4, 220), Nathan Reidel (jr., 6-2, 170) Linemen: *Luke Campbell (sr., 6-4, 275), *Matt Gray (jr., 6-2, 250), *Josh Lloyd (sr., 510, 225), *Andrew Luxeder (sr., 6-2, 240), *Hayden Schmidt (jr., 6-2, 265), Ryan Strawser (sr., 6-2, 245), Case McCoy (jr., 6-0, 225) Defense Linemen: *Rahim Benton dpurpura@thisweeknews.com FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

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Page 39

OCC-CAPITAL D IVISION

Delaware Hayes

Pacers expect to take off in Goldenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second year By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM The Delaware Hayes High School football team is expecting a big improvement during Mike Goldenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second year as

coach, as the Pacers look ready to put behind them the growing pains of adjusting to a new system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re definitely going to be more physical and more competitive and we believe we

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have some very gifted athletes out there who are going to make their mark,â&#x20AC;? Golden said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got the new (synthetic) turf and the school and the community is very excited about the improvements that Hayes is making.â&#x20AC;? The Pacers finished 3-7 overall and 2-5 in the OCCCapital Division last year but believe they will compete at a higher level with everyone on the same page. That wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always the case last season when players were learning a new offense and defense. According to Golden, the learning process made the Pacers slower to react and less physical because players were thinking rather than coming off the ball hard. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We truly had an offseason program in place and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at a much more advanced level than we were at the beginning of last year,â&#x20AC;? Golden said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We brought in new offensive and defensive schemes, as well as new philosophies, approaches and terminology. It takes a while to get everyone up to speed and on the same page. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was very pleased with our progress all summer and we physically competed well against DeSales in our first scrimmage, although it was more of a practice in groups

and then the weather broke down on us.â&#x20AC;? The Pacers will be led by two-way senior standout Ethan Tucky, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound running back and outside linebacker who committed to Boston College on June 14. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very excited about the season and we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait,â&#x20AC;? said Tucky, who is a four-star prospect and the 21st-ranked outside linebacker in the nation by 247Sports. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone has come together and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re way ahead of where we were last year at this time. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all looking forward to having a great season.â&#x20AC;? Tucky was second-team allstate in Division I, first-team all-district, first-team all-league and a member of the ThisWeek Super 25 team.

OFFENSE

Eight starters have returned to the Pacersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wing-T offense, including the entire backfield and several receivers. Delaware will be trying to improve on the 17.6 points per game it produced last fall. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Cullen Moore got 10 games under his belt as a sophomore quarterback and that looks like itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to pay off this year,â&#x20AC;?

Ethan Tucky, a senior running back and linebacker, has com-

PACERS >> 41 mitted to play at Boston College. DAN TRITTSHUH/THISWEEKSPORTS

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PACERS FROM >> 40

Golden said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;His progression is catching up to his ability. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extending plays and making throws. I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got many playmakers around him, too.â&#x20AC;? Sean Gliebe returns with Tucky in the backfield. Top receivers and slotbacks include Derrick Buford, Josh Hyatt, Miles Roberts, Noah Watts and Anthony Rodgers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tucky is the real thing,â&#x20AC;? Golden said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He placed sixth in the (200 meters in the Division I state track and field meet in June) and we expect big things from him in his second season at running back. Gliebe is a versatile fullback and halfback who will make big plays, too. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deven Ward and Caleb Cooper also have ability and will get their share of plays in the backfield. Buford and Hyatt have good hands and lead a really solid group of targets.â&#x20AC;? Nathan Wilgus is the lone returning starter on the line and the Pacers were still looking at different combinations late in the preseason.

DEFENSE

Delaware allowed nearly 23 points per game last season, but returns seven defensive starters. The Pacers lost all of the linemen from their 3-5-3 stack setup, however. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Stan Sorn and Kole Shaw have been strong for us on the line thus far and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to need that to allow our linebackers to get to the ball,â&#x20AC;? Golden said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sorn has shown a tremendous amount of improvement.â&#x20AC;? Braden Donges also will see time on the line. The Pacers plan to move Tucky around on the field to create advantages. Golden said that Tucky could be used as a pass-rushing end and a middle linebacker in addition to out-

OCC-CAPITAL D IVISION

At a glance *Mount Vernon ................W, 36-28 *Franklin Heights.............W, 55-13 *Olentangy .........................L 36-0 *League contest INSIDE THE PACERS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Mike Golden, second season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Derrick Buford (WR/FS), Caleb Cooper (MLB), Sean Gliebe (RB), Josh Hyatt (WR/OLB), Cullen Moore (QB), Stanley Sorn (NG), Ethan Tucky (RB/MLB/OLB), Devin Ward (RB/CB), Noah Watts (WR/CB/K/P) and Nathan Wilgus (OL) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Ernest Bonsu (FB), Josh Daughenbaugh (OLB), Austen Kimbro (OL/DL), Derek Louck (OL/DL), Brandon McConaha (WR/DB), Lamar Rhymes (TE/DL), Shane Sand (OL/DL) and Joseph Sanfillipo (P/K)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.............vs. Buckeye Valley Sept. 4 ......................at Marysville Sept. 11.....................vs. Westland *Sept. 18 ........vs. Worth. Kilbourne *Sept. 25 ..................at Big Walnut *Oct. 2 ....................at New Albany *Oct. 9..........vs. Olentangy Orange *Oct. 16 ...............at Mount Vernon *Oct. 23............at Franklin Heights *Oct. 31 ...................vs. Olentangy 2014 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 2-5 OCC-Capital) Buckeye Valley..................W, 30-0 Marysville........................L, 20-13 Westland .........................L, 28-21 *Worthington Kilbourne ......L, 22-0 *Big Walnut......................L, 35-14 *New Albany......................L, 34-7 *Olentangy Orange...........L, 13-10

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side linebacker. Cooper, Hyatt, Jacob Hackathorn and Caleb Naegele are expected to be among the starting linebackers, with Grant Conahan and Cole Sparks also seeking action. The secondary will consist of Watts, Roberts and Rodgers .

SPECIAL TEAMS

Watts will take over the punting and kicking duties from graduate Joseph Sanfillipo. Hackathorn will be the long snapper and Buford and Roberts are expected to return punts and kickoffs.

THE LINEUP

See our ad on pg. 91 10, 155) end: Tight *Jacob Hackathorn (sr., 6-1, 185) Linemen: Mason Davis (jr., 6-0, 225), *Josh McSweeney (jr., 6-1, 320), *John Spangler (sr., 5-9, 230), *Elliott Shaw (sr., 6-2, 235), *Cole Sparks (sr., 5-9, 200), *Nathan Wilgus (jr., 6-3, 305) Defense Linemen: Braden Donges (so., 6-1, 210), *Kole Shaw (so., 5-11, 230), *Stanley Sorn (jr., 5-9, 240), *Tucky Linebackers: *Grant Conahan (jr., 5-11, 210), *Cooper, *Hackathorn, *Hyatt, *Caleb Naegele (sr., 5-10, 165), Sparks, Tucky Secondary: *Miles Roberts (jr., 5-9, 160), *Anthony Rodgers (jr., 6-0, 170), *Watts Special teams Kicker: *Watts, Drew Staley (sr., 5-7, 160) Punter: *Watts Returners: *Buford, *Roberts Long snapper: *Hackathorn (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterback: *Cullen Moore (jr., 6-0, 205) Running backs: Caleb Cooper (sr., 5-11, 190), *Sean Gliebe (sr., 5-9, 180), *Ethan Tucky (sr., 6-3, 225), Deven Ward (jr., 5-10, 160) Receivers: *Derrick Buford (jr., 6-3, 175), *Josh Hyatt (sr., 6-3, 185), *Noah Watts (sr., 5- bemerine@thisweeknews.com

WILDCATS FROM >> 14

times per game. But with so much experience on our line, I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be able to run the ball well. Kaleb has made tremendous strides over this past year and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got a good group of receivers to throw to. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We try to stay balanced between our passing game and running game, and having turf should help later in the season because when our field got worn down in past seasons, sometimes it was hard to throw the ball effectively out there in the muck.â&#x20AC;?

At a glance *Groveport ........................W, 10-7 *Pickerington Central .........L, 27-3 *Reynoldsburg .................L, 33-10 *Lancaster.......................L, 48-20 *League contest INSIDE THE WILDCATS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Mike Kopachy, second season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Austin Combs (OL), Kaleb Jarrett (QB),Taylor Lehoe (OL), Vinnie Pancini (OL/DL), Jayme Randolph (OL/DL), Jed Quackenbush (K/P), Chase Richardson (RB/LB) and Hayden Thacker (WR/DB) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Dasanto Daniels (RB/DB), Kam Hicks (WR/DB),Austyn Mays (LB), Darius Shackleford (WR) and Khayle Woods (WR/DB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......................at Zanesville Sept. 4...........vs. Westerville North Sept. 11.............at Licking Heights *Sept. 18 .....vs. Pickerington North *Sept. 25.....................at Gahanna *Oct. 2 .....................vs. Grove City *Oct. 9 ......................vs. Groveport *Oct. 16......at Pickerington Central *Oct. 23 ..............vs. Reynoldsburg *Oct. 30 .....................at Lancaster 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 2-5 OCC-Cardinal) Zanesville ........................L, 31-14 Westerville North .............L, 17-15 Licking Heights ................L, 37-14 *Pickerington North............L, 37-0 *Gahanna ..........................L, 45-0 *Grove City .....................W, 30-20

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DEFENSE

The Wildcatsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 4-2-5 base defense features only four returning starters in junior linebacker Chase Richardson, linemen Pancini and Randolph and senior safety Doren Barrett. However, Kopachy said he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect his defense to drop off. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have our leading tackler coming back in Chase Richardson,â&#x20AC;? Kopachy said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Chase is tough as nails and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great role model for the rest of our defense to follow. We have a great upside in our secondary, too.â&#x20AC;?

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Black (so., 6-0, 210), Levi McKee (so., 6-0, 200), Cordell Spivey (jr., 5-10, 170), Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ante Woods (so., 5-10, 180) Receivers: Michael Pound (jr., 6-1, 180), Taveon Swift (jr., 6-3, 170), Hayden Thacker (sr., 6-0, 180) Linemen: *Austin Combs (jr., 5-11, 245), *Taylor Lehoe (sr., 6-0, 275), *Vinnie Pancini (sr., 6-3, 240), *Jayme Randolph (sr., 6-4, 275) THE LINEUP Defense Offense Linemen: Brad Holland (so., Quarterback: *Kaleb Jarrett 6-3, 290), Ryan Lecuyer (6-4, (jr., 6-2, 185) 280), Pancini, Randolph, Josh Running backs: Christian Street (so., 6-2, 230)

See our ad on pg. 91 Linebackers: Christian Black (so., 6-0, 210), Caleb Denune (sr., 6-3, 185), Chase Richardson (jr., 5-9, 190), Brad Wiemers (jr., 6-1, 215) Secondary: Doren Barrett (sr., 6-0, 180), Spivey, Thacker, Kobe Thompson (so., 5-10, 145), Woods Special teams Kicker: *Jed Quackenbush (jr., 6-2, 170) Punter: *Quackenbush Returners: To be determined Long snapper: *Combs (*Denotes projected starter) ablankenship@thisweeknews.com

CRUISERS FROM >> 14

*Jalen Foster (sr., 6-0, 185), *Paul Robinson (sr., 5-10, 175), *C.J. Towns (sr., 6-2, 180) Special teams Kicker: *Darrel Talbert (sr., 5-7, 135) Punter: *Cole Returners: *Atekins, *Foster, *Wade Long snapper: *Dakota Harmon (jr., 6-1, 270) (*Denotes projected starter)

McClure (jr., 5-10, 300), *Nick Perdue (jr., 62, 300), *TrĂŠ Stevens-Davis (jr., 6-2, 280) Defense Linemen: *Malik Jolley (jr., 5-11, 225), *Rafael Rhone (jr., 6-0, 220), *Elijah Smith (sr., 5-10, 255), *Richards Linebackers: *Jayson Little (jr., 5-11, 215), * Daâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Quan Mayle (sr., 6-0, 210), *Newman Secondary: *Chase Cole (sr., 5-10, 170), bemerine@thisweeknews.com

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August 27, 2015

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Page 41

OCC-CARDINAL DIVISION

Spotlight

Heavy workload doesn’t take toll on Snell By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Like most running backs, the more carries he gets, the more effective Benny Snell becomes. And the Westerville Central senior doesn’t mind handling that workload. Snell has the Warhawks in position for a long postseason run as they look to build on last season’s berth in a Division I, Region 1 semifinal. The Warhawks lost to Lakewood St. Edward 41-0, but still posted the program’s most successful season at 11-2. Led by Snell, the team advanced one round further than the 2013 team, which finished 10-2 with a 40-24 loss to Austintown Fitch in the second round. “I want every yard,” Snell said. “I always want to be that guy to make that play, so if I need to make a block, go out for a pass, whatever I’m needed for is what I’m going to do to win. I prefer running the ball because I’m going to get everything I can every time I touch the ball.” Last season, Snell led the team in rushing with a program-record 2,077 yards and 26 touchdowns on 295 carries

Inside the division 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Hilliard Darby 7-0 9-2 West. Central 6-1 11-2 Dublin Scioto 4-3 8-5 West. South 4-3 6-4 Hilliard Bradley 3-4 5-5 Dublin Jerome 3-4 4-6 West. North 1-6 2-8 Canal Winchester 0-7 1-9 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Sept. 18 South at Canal Winchester Jerome at Bradley Central at Scioto North at Darby Sept. 25 Canal Winchester at Central Darby at Jerome Scioto at North Bradley at South Oct. 2 Darby at Canal Winchester

Westerville Central’s Benny Snell is looking for another 2,000-yard season after rushing for 2,077 see him improving on that. yards and 26 touchdowns a year ago. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS There’s not a whole lot of weakness in his game.” running out of the Warhawks’ Snell also is invaluable defen- inside, but also has the speed Another goal for Snell and his spread offense. He was named sively and will play corner- to take the ball wide and run teammates is to win an OCCfirst-team all-state, all-district back, but they try to limit his by opponents. Cardinal Division title after finand all-league. plays on that side of the ball to “We always knew he could ishing second (6-1) to Hilliard “This offense is amazing,” help him remain fresh during run the football, but people Darby (7-0) a season ago. CenSnell said. “We’ll run until we a long season. don’t realize how good of a tral – which lost to the Panthers get stopped, and then we’ll pass “When Benny is on the field, receiver he is coming out of 34-10 – plays host to Darby on until we get stopped. We out- he’s awfully good,” Magistro the backfield,” Magistro said. Oct. 23 during week 9. “The thing I’m impressed with work our opponents because said. Snell saw limited time as a we’re so quick. It’s amazing.” At 6-foot-0 and 210 pounds, right now is we need him to sophomore, playing behind Coach John Magistro says Snell can run over defenders block in pass protection and I seniors Alex Fisher and Justin

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Head. Despite the lack of playing time, Snell caught Magistro’s attention. “I remember as a sophomore thinking this kid should be getting a lot of carries, but we had two other backs, Fisher and Head, that were getting the job done and they were seniors or who knows what he could have done as a sophomore,” Magistro said.

SNELL >> 43

Westerville Central

Warhawks don’t alter goals

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Get a FREE quote.

North at Jerome Scioto at South Central at Bradley Oct. 9 Canal Winchester at Bradley Jerome at Scioto South at Darby North at Central Oct. 16 Canal Winchester at Jerome Darby at Scioto Bradley at North Central at South Oct. 23 North at Canal Winchester Jerome at South Scioto at Bradley Darby at Central Oct. 30 Canal Winchester at Scioto Central at Jerome Bradley at Darby South at North

Since coach John Magistro took over the Westerville Central High School football program in 2009, expectations have risen each year. Those goals continue to grow as Central looks to return to the playoffs a year after the Warhawks lost 41-0 to Lakewood St. Edward in a Division I, Region 1 semifinal. St. Edward went on to win the state title, defeating Huber Heights Wayne 31-21 in the championship game. Central concluded the most successful season in program history at 11-2 overall. “If we can stay healthy, we feel like we can compete with anybody,” said Magistro, whose team opens at home against Gahanna on Friday, Aug. 28. “It doesn’t really matter what I think. It’s what they think, and their expectations haven’t changed. It takes a little bit of luck from a health standpoint because we don’t have the numbers that some of the Division I teams have throughout the state, so we have to stay healthy.” Although it lost 23 players to graduation, Central returns several starters from a potent spread offense that averaged 32.6 points. One of the key returnees is

At a glance *Westerville South...........W, 45-32 *Hilliard Darby .................L, 35-10 *Dublin Jerome...............W, 49-28 PLAYOFFS Solon..............................W, 23-10 Austintown Fitch .............W, 44-21 Lakewood St. Edward ........L, 41-0 *League contest INSIDE THE WARHAWKS •Coach: John Magistro, seventh season •Top players: Cedric Frierson (WR/DB), Jalen Carter-Henley (OL/DL), Gavin Lyon (QB), David Rucker (WR/DB) and Benny Snell (RB/DB) •Key losses: Ben Cooper (DL), Ty Holmes (WR/DB), Nate Jackowski (QB/LB),Justice Jenkins (RB/DB),Andy Oppliger (LB/RB), Nathan Rodriguez (OL/DL) and Nate Traini (OL/DL)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......................vs. Gahanna Sept. 4 ..................vs. New Albany Sept. 11 ........at Olentangy Orange *Sept. 18 ..............at Dublin Scioto *Sep. 25........vs. Canal Winchester *Oct. 2 ...............at Hilliard Bradley *Oct. 9 ...........vs. Westerville North *Oct. 16..........at Westerville South *Oct. 23 ..............vs. Hilliard Darby *Oct. 30..............at Dublin Jerome 2014 RESULTS (11-2 overall, 6-1 OCC-Cardinal) DeSales..........................W, 21-17 New Albany ....................W, 43-13 Independence.................W, 49-20 *Dublin Scioto.................W, 26-16 *Canal Winchester...........W, 44-14 *Hilliard Bradley ................W, 31-7 *Westerville North ...........W, 39-17

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(614) 784-0800 senior quarterback Gavin Lyon, who missed the final four games last season after suffering a concussion in a 35-10 loss at Hilliard Darby in week 9. Lyon completed 58 of 86 passes for 926 yards with 12 touchdowns and one interception and was honorable mention all-district. “We like to go fast and tire teams out and score a lot of

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See our ad on pg. 91 points,” Lyon said. “As a quarterback, you can’t ask for anything else. It’s a lot of fun to run the offense and get the ball to these athletes and see them work.” The Warhawks went 6-1 in the OCC-Cardinal Division to finish second behind Darby (70), and Central plays host to the Panthers on Oct. 23 in week 9. Magistro believes his team

will again contend for the league title, with Westerville South also in the hunt. “We always want to win the OCC, then reach the playoffs, and then obviously each year we want to get further in the playoffs,” Magistro said. “Our goal is to win the state championship. Every year these guys have moved closer and closer.”

OFFENSE

A healthy Lyon is looking to forward to again leading an offense that was held under 30 points only twice during the regular season a year ago. “I’m feeling good,” Lyon said. “Our team is looking good. We’re all working hard and there’s a lot of good energy in practice, so it’s coming together and we’re excited to be playing.” Lyon’s top weapon should be senior running back Benny Snell, who led the team in rushing with a program-record 2,077 yards and 26 touchdowns on 295 carries. Snell, a University of Kentucky recruit, was named first-team all-state, all-district and all-league. Also back is senior wide receiver Cedric Frierson, who had 51 catches for 1,033 yards and nine touchdowns and was first-team all-district and

WARHAWKS >> 44 August 27, 2015

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

Canal Winchester

Indians seek turnaround this season ByAARON BLANKENSHIP THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Canal Winchester High School football coach Phil Mauro and his players aren’t making any bold predictions about how many games their team will win this season, after the Indians went 1-9 overall last year and 0-10 in 2013. The only thing the Indians are ready to guarantee is that they will play hard in honor of Canal Winchester resident Brock Johnson, who died May 20 at the age of 14 from an autoimmune disease. The Indians will open Aug. 28 against visiting Groveport and will start OCC-Cardinal Division play Sept. 18 at home against Westerville North. “Brock is a special person and he’s inspired us so much over the years,” said senior Isaiah Coe, who will play middle linebacker and right guard. “When we found out the news that Brock had passed away, we were in the weight room crying because Brock was such a good friend. “When we huddled up, I asked my teammates to promise to dedicate this season to Brock and to make sure we do our best in everything we do for him, and that’s what we’re going to do.” The Indians are looking to be more competitive in the OCC-Cardinal, after going 07 in each of their first two seasons in the league. Hilliard Darby (7-0) won the OCC-Cardinal last year. Canal Winchester defeated Groveport 28-19 in its opener last year to snap an 11-game losing streak, before dropping its last nine contests. The Indians, who were outscored 402-116 while going 0-10 in 2013, were more competitive overall last season. They were outscored 344-134 but lost close league games to Hilliard Bradley (24-14) and Westerville North (17-14). This is Mauro’s second season in his second stint at Canal Winchester, where he led the Indians to an unprecedented level of success during his first tenure from 2007-10. During those four seasons, Mauro guided the Indians to a

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28..................vs. Groveport Sept. 4...................at Big Walnut Sept. 11 ...................vs. DeSales *Sept. 18 ....vs. Westerville South *Sept. 25 ...at Westerville Central *Oct. 2..............vs. Hilliard Darby *Oct. 9 ............at Hilliard Bradley *Oct. 16 ...........at Dublin Jerome *Oct. 23 ......vs. Westerville North *Oct. 30 .............at Dublin Scioto 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-7 OCC-Cardinal) Groveport.....................W, 28-19 Big Walnut ....................L, 30-14 Lancaster .....................L, 36-16 *Westerville South...........L, 45-7 *Westerville Central.......L, 44-14 *Hilliard Darby ................L, 42-7 *Hilliard Bradley ............L, 24-14 *Dublin Jerome...............L, 42-6 *Westerville North .........L, 17-14 *Dublin Scioto...............L, 45-14 *League contest INSIDE THE INDIANS •Coach: Phil Mauro, sixth season •Top players: Jaelen Crump (RB/DL), Matt Blum (OL), Trevor Harrison-Rawn (QB), Danny Jones (OL),Ty Luckett (LB), Je’len Olbrantz (WR/DL), Colin Sotlar (RB/LB), Nick Tiell (RB/LB) •Key losses: Nick Hammond (QB/DB), Lamont Martin (RB/LB) and Skyler Scott (WR)

Colin Sotlar will start at linebacker while also seeing time at running back for the Indians, who are looking to improve on last season’s 1-9 record. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

on our running game this year,” Mauro said. “We’re still testing out a number of guys at running back, so we’re going to run the ball by committee at least early in the season.”

DEFENSE

Returning to lead Canal Winchester’s 4-3 defense are seniors Crump (end), Luckett (linebacker), Olbrantz (end) and Sotlar (linebacker) and junior Nick Tiell (linebacker). “We’re an attacking defense with all 11 guys running to the ball,” Coe said. “Our first defensive goal is to stop the run and we need to refuse to give up the big plays ablankenship@thisweeknews.com that have hurt us the past few years.”

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36-9 record, two MSL-Buckeye Division championships and four playoff appearances. Before his arrival, the Indians hadn’t had a winning season since 2001 and had qualified for the playoffs only twice (1986, 1988). “We had the opportunity to win three more games than we did, so we’ve got to learn to finish the games that we’re close in,” Mauro said. “We also need to have better first halves to give ourselves the opportunity to win more games in the second half.”

THE LINEUP

Kasey North, a junior offensive lineman, and the Indians open Aug. 28 as host to Groveport. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

Rawn returns to lead the Indians’ spread offense, after he was 64-for-109 passing for 841 yards, with five touchdowns and seven interceptions a year ago. OFFENSE Four starters on the offenJunior Trevor Harrison- sive line also have returned in

senior Matt Blum (left guard) and juniors Danny Jones (right guard), Kasey North (right tackle) and Austin Wolfe (left tackle). “We have most of our offensive line back and we’re going to have a little more emphasis

program with Dublin Coffman senior quarterback Gunnar Hoak, who has also committed to play for the Wildcats. “He’s my dude,” Snell said of Hoak. Snell has a family tradition in the sport as his uncle, Matt

Snell, was a running back for the New York Jets, helping his team win Super Bowl III 167 over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts in 1969. Snell rushed for his team’s only touchdown and finished with 121 yards on 30 carries.

Offense Quarterback: *Trevor Harrison-Rawn (jr.) Running backs: Jaelen Crump (sr.), Myron Johnson (jr.), Colin Sotlar (sr.), Nick Tiell (jr.), Rondell Wade (jr.) Receivers: Lonzell Feagin (jr.), Blake Harvey (sr.), Ty Luckett (sr.), Cameron Metzler (jr.), Je’len Olbrantz (sr.) Linemen: *Matt Blum (sr.), *Isaiah Coe (sr.), *Danny Jones (jr.), *Kasey North (jr.), *Austin Wolfe (jr.) Defense Linemen: Crump, Kaleb

SNELL

FROM >> 42

Snell was highly recruited by colleges and decided to attend Kentucky. He also considered Iowa and Nebraska. “There’s a lot of stress off my shoulders now,” Snell said August 27, 2015

of his verbal commitment. “There’s no regrets. I’m ready. It all just worked out at the end. The recruiting is great because they take you in as family. It just felt right there.” Snell said that he is looking forward to joining the Kentucky

Darfus (sr.), Josh Hale (sr.), Olbrantz, Lonnie Williams (sr.) Linebackers: *Luckett, *Sotlar, *Tiell Secondary: Anthony Amburgey (sr.), Casey Cook (sr.), Maon Ingram (jr.), Logan Miller (sr.), Luke Osborn (sr.), Jacob Robertson (so.), Austin Smith (jr.) Special Teams Kicker: *Trevor Thompson (so.) Punter: *Sotlar Returners: *Johnson, *Smith, *Tiell Long snappers: *Cook, *Cody Toledo (sr.) (*Denotes projected starter)

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Page 43

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

WARHAWKS

FROM >> 42

all-league, and second-team allstate. Although the offensive line was hit hard by graduation, the Warhawks return a solid group led by senior tackle Jalen CarterHenley. Senior Joseph Tiberio and juniors Noah Adams and Nick Finn are also in the mix, and senior George Palmer was expected to contribute on the offensive and defensive lines, but was lost for around six weeks with a leg injury during the preseason.

DEFENSE

Central, which allowed 20.8 points a game last season, will again run a 4-2-5 base defense. Frierson should lead that unit at defensive back, with seniors Daniel Kreuzer and David Rucker and junior Bryce Cromer joining him in the secondary. Kreuzer also will play wide receiver and back up Lyon at quarterback. Snell will see action at linebacker along with with seniors Daniel Rucker and Andrew Wallace and junior Collin Robertson Henley-Carter will see time on the line, along with seniors Ryan Kennedy and Justin Nguyen and junior Jack Curran. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of the (defensive) posi-

Gavin Lyon completed 58 of 86 passes for 926 yards with 12 touchdowns before being injured in week 9. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKSPORTS

tions are up for grabs,â&#x20AC;? Magistro said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very fast on defense. We have lockdown corners. We have Cedric and the (David) Rucker kid. Bryce Cromer is awfully good back there. Daniel Kreuzer is looking good at quarterback and free safety.â&#x20AC;?

honors, while Kreuzer will handle the punting duties. Frierson, Comer and Snell will be among those returning kicks.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Daniel Kreuzer (sr., 6-3, 195), *Gavin Lyon (sr. SPECIAL TEAMS 5-11, 175) Running backs: *Benny Snell Senior Alex Barnhart returns as kicker after earning second- (sr., 6-0, 210), Receivers: *Cedric Frierson team all-district and all-league

(sr., 6-1 205), Bryce Comer (jr., 5-10, 175), Tight ends: Andrew Wallace (sr., 6-3, 196) Linemen: *Jalen Carter-Henley (sr., 6-3, 290), George

Palmer (sr., 5-10, 210), Noah Adams (jr., 6-0, 280), Nick Finn (jr., 5-11, 201), Joseph Tiberio (6-3, 285) Defense Linemen: *Carter-Henley,

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Centralâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cedric Frierson had 51 receptions for 1,033 yards and nine touchdowns in being named first-team all-district. JOSHUA A. BICKEL/THISWEEKSPORTS

Ryan Kennedy (sr., 6-5, 215), *Justin Nguyen (sr., 6-2, 228), Palmer, Jack Curran (jr., 6-3, 215), Linebackers: *Daniel Rucker (sr., 5-10, 185), Snell, *Wallace, Collin Robertson (jr., 6-2, 195), Secondary: *Frierson, Kreuzer, *David Rucker (sr., 5-7, 157), *Cromer Special teams Kicker: *Alex Barnhart (sr., 6-0, 205) Punter: *Kreuzer Returners: Frierson, Snell, Comer Long snapper: *Wallace (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com

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August 27, 2015

OCC-CARDINAL D IVISION

Dublin Jerome

New coach brings championship experience By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Bob Gecewich entered his new job as football coach at Dublin Jerome High School looking to rejuvenate the programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture. Gecewich takes over a team that finished 4-6 the past four seasons under Mark Hundley, who had led the Celtics since the program began in 2004 and is now an assistant at Coffman. Hundley announced early last season that he was resigning at the end of the year and finished with a 50-62 record in 11 seasons. Jerome went 34 in the OCC-Cardinal Division last fall. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re starting from scratch,â&#x20AC;? Gecewich said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The whole program is starting from scratch and I have no reservations about saying that. From how to work hard in the weight room to what a productive practice looks like to what accepting coaching looks like.â&#x20AC;? Gecewich said a main focus since he was named coach in January was to emphasize the importance of weight training. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The No. 1 push was to fix the weight room and get kids to buy into that weight program because strong football teams arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t built during these (preseason) weeks,â&#x20AC;? Gecewich said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You get that camaraderie, you get that sweat equity, you get all that investment. You get that stuff in the offseason.â&#x20AC;? Gecewich served as an assistant at Maria Stein Marion Local in northwest Ohio the past two seasons. Before that, he was an assistant at Nashville (Tenn.) McGavock for five years and Dorchester (S.C.) Woodland for one season. All three programs enjoyed success with Gecewich on staff, including six playoff appear-

Zack Hazlett will move to quarterback after being a receiver last season when he had 27 receptions for 257 yards. PAUL VERNON/THISWEEKSPORTS

ances and two state championships. Last fall, Marion Local won the Division VII state title, capping a 15-0 season with a 410 victory over Norwalk St. Paul on Dec. 6 at Ohio Stadium. The Flyers also captured the state title in 2013, defeating Glouster Trimble 33-0 in the final.

Last season, Jerome tied Hilliard Bradley for fifth in the OCC-Cardinal, behind champion Hilliard Darby (7-0) and Westerville Central (6-1). Many expect those teams, along with Westerville South, to contend for the league title, and Gecewich hopes his team can be part of that mix.

Jerome opens Aug. 28 at home against Upper Arlington, which is expected to contend in the OCC-Central and defeated the Celtics 36-0 in week 1 a year ago. Jerome last qualified for the Division II playoffs in 2008, and Gecewich hopes he has his new team on track for a return

trip to the postseason. Jerome is 0-2 in the playoffs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be happy if we go into every game and we play disciplined football and we play competitive football,â&#x20AC;? Gecewich said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How do we define competitive? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re maxing out on effort every snap. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that simple.â&#x20AC;?

year itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mix of shotgun and under center.â&#x20AC;? Hazlettâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top threat should be junior wide receiver Ty Henderson, who had 28 receptions

OFFENSE

" "# "

Gecewich promises to feature a mix of formations on offense, led by senior Zack Hazlett at quarterback. Hazlett, who has been hampered by various injuries during his career, previously played slotback and wide receiver. Last season in limited time, he had 27 catches for 257 yards. He replaces 2014 graduate Alex Cline, who completed 193 of 354 passes for 2,315 yards with 24 touchdowns and 15 interceptions and was named first-team all-league and special mention all-district. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone seems to be excited for the year, a new coach,â&#x20AC;? Hazlett said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone seems to be looking forward to this year. We have some spread, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a mix of everything. Last year we were all spread and we didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have anything under center. This

CELTICS>> 54

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Page 45

COMPOSITE SCHEDULES: WEEKS 1-5

WEEK 1

WEEK 2

Aug. 27 Area non-league Pickerington North at Central Crossing, 7 p.m.; Elgin at Ridgedale, 7 p.m.

Sept. 3 Area non-league West Jefferson at Jonathan Alder, 7 p.m.; Licking Heights at Hamilton Township, 7 p.m.

Aug. 28 Area non-league Big Walnut at Mansfield Senior, 7 p.m.; Buckeye Valley at Delaware, 7 p.m.; Groveport at Canal Winchester, 7:30 p.m.; Springfield at Dublin Coffman, 7:30 p.m.; Upper Arlington at Dublin Jerome, 7:30 p.m.; Worthington Kilbourne at Dublin Scioto, 7:30 p.m.; Eastmoor Academy at Franklin Heights, 7:30 p.m.; Gahanna at Westerville Central, 7:30 p.m.; Grove City at Hilliard Davidson, 7:30 p.m.; Hilliard Bradley at Thomas Worthington, 7:30 p.m.; Hilliard Darby at Northmont, 7:30 p.m.; DeSales at Lancaster, 7:30 p.m.; Marion Harding at Mount Vernon, 7:30 p.m.; Marion-Franklin at Westerville North, 7:30 p.m.; Reynoldsburg at New Albany, 7:30 p.m.; Newark at Zanesville, 7 p.m.; Olentangy at Westerville South, 7:30 p.m.; Olentangy Orange at Olentangy Liberty, 7:30 p.m.; Pickerington Central at Trotwood-Madison, 6 p.m.; Watterson at Walnut Ridge, 7:30 p.m.; Africentric at Ansonia, 7:30 p.m.; East at Briggs, 7:30 p.m.; Northland at Independence, 7:30 p.m.; Linden at Orrville, 7 p.m.; Mifflin at West, 7:30 p.m.; South at St. Charles, 7 p.m.; Amanda-Clearcreek at Lakewood, 7 p.m.; Cleveland Knights at Berne Union, 7 p.m.; Harvest Prep at Bexley, 7 p.m.; Bloom-Carroll at John Glenn, 7 p.m.; Centennial at Grandview, 7 p.m.; Miami Trace at Circleville, 7:30 p.m.; Grove City Christian at Columbus Academy, 7 p.m.; Whitehall vs. Ready at DeSales, 7 p.m.; Fairfield Union at New Lexington, 7 p.m.; Fisher Catholic at Paint Valley, 7 p.m.; Belmont at Hamilton Township, 7 p.m.; Caldwell at Liberty Union, 7 p.m.; Zane Trace at Logan Elm, 7 p.m.; London at Urbana, 7:30 p.m.; Millersport at Eastern, 7:30 p.m.; Westfall at Teays Valley, 7 p.m.; West Jefferson at Mechanicsburg, 7 p.m.; Madison Plains at Cedarville, 7 p.m.; Sheridan at Granville, 7 p.m.; River View at Heath, 7 p.m.; Chillicothe at Johnstown, 7:30 p.m.; Westland at Licking Heights, 7 p.m.; Licking Valley at Tri-Valley, 7 p.m.; Reigning Sports Academy Thunder at Hartley, 7 p.m.; Newark Catholic at Portsmouth West, 7 p.m.; Northridge at Washington Court House, 7:30 p.m.; Whetstone at Watkins Memorial, 7 p.m.; Cardington at North Union, 7 p.m.; Utica at Centerburg, 7:30 p.m.; East Knox at Danville, 7 p.m.; Benjamin Logan at Fairbanks, 7 p.m.; Clear Fork at Fredericktown, 7 p.m.; Galion at Bucyrus, 7 p.m.; Loudonville at Highland, 7 p.m.; Marysville at Jonathan Alder, 7 p.m.; Worthington Christian at Cincinnati Landmark Christian, 7 p.m.; Mount Gilead at Colonel Crawford, 7 p.m.; Crestview at Northmor, 7 p.m.; Pleasant at Dawson-Bryant, 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 4 Area non-league Canal Winchester at Big Walnut, 7:30 p.m.; Central Crossing at Westerville North, 7:30 p.m.; Delaware at Marysville, 7:30 p.m.; Dublin Scioto at Dublin Coffman, 7:30 p.m.; Dublin Jerome at Lancaster, 7:30 p.m.; Franklin Heights at Harvest Prep, 7 p.m.; Westerville South at Gahanna, 7:30 p.m.; Walnut Ridge at Grove City, 7:30 p.m.; South at Groveport, 7:30 p.m.; Hilliard Bradley at Middletown, 7 p.m.; Hilliard Davidson at Hilliard Darby, 7:30 p.m.; Mifflin at Westland, 7:30 p.m.; Mount Vernon at Newark, 7:30 p.m.; New Albany at Westerville Central, 7:30 p.m.; Olentangy Liberty at Olentangy, 7:30 p.m.; Lakota East at Pickerington North, 7:30 p.m.; Thomas Worthington at Worthington Kilbourne, 7:30 p.m.; Upper Arlington at Mason, 7:30 p.m.; Marion-Franklin at Beechcroft, 7:30 p.m.; West at Centennial, 7:30 p.m.; Columbus Academy at Linden, 7:30 p.m.; Liberty Union at East, 7:30 p.m.; Ready at Briggs, 7:30 p.m.; Granville at Eastmoor Academy, 7:30 p.m.; Pickerington Central at Independence, 7:30 p.m.; Whitehall at Northland, 7:30 p.m.; Meigs at Amanda-Clearcreek, 7 p.m.; Grandview at Berne Union, 7 p.m.; Africentric at Grove City Christian, 7 p.m.; Bexley at Bloom-Carroll, 7 p.m.; Washington Court House at Circleville, 7:30 p.m.; Fairfield Christian at Hardin Northern, 7 p.m.; Fisher Catholic at Sciotoville Community, 7 p.m.; Logan Elm at Westfall, 7:30 p.m.; Greenon at London, 7 p.m.; Green at Millersport, 7 p.m.; Teays Valley at Logan, 7 p.m.; Greeneview at Madison Plains, 7 p.m.; Toledo Central Catholic at Hartley, 7 p.m.; Olentangy Orange at Watterson, 7:30 p.m.; Reynoldsburg at St. Charles, 7:30 p.m.; Chaminade Julienne at DeSales, 7 p.m.; Fairfield Union at Johnstown, 7:30 p.m.; Northridge at Lakewood, 7 p.m.; Licking Valley at Philo, 7 p.m.; Aylmer (Ontario) East Elgin at Watkins Memorial, 7 p.m.; Whetstone at Buckeye Valley, 7 p.m.; Cardington at Riverdale, 7 p.m.; Centerburg at Lucas, 7 p.m.; Utica at East Knox, 7 p.m.; Fairbanks at Mechanicsburg, 7 p.m.; Danville at Fredericktown, 7 p.m.; Columbus Crusaders at Galion, 7 p.m.; Benjamin Logan at Elgin, 7 p.m.; Heath at Highland, 7 p.m.; Marion Harding at Lima Senior, 7 p.m.; Ridgemont at Mount Gilead, 7 p.m.; North Union at Triad, 7 p.m.; Northmor at Worthington Christian, 7 p.m.; Pleasant at Cincinnati Country Day, 7:30 p.m.; Columbus Crusaders at Galion, 7 p.m.

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WEEK 3

Sept. 10 Area non-league Marion-Franklin at Hartley, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 Area non-league DeSales at Canal Winchester, 7:30 p.m.; Beechcroft at Central Crossing, 7:30 p.m.; Westland at Delaware, 7:30 p.m.; Dublin Coffman at Fairfield, 7 p.m.; Dublin Jerome at Olentangy Liberty, 7:30 p.m.; Dublin Scioto at Marysville, 7:30 p.m.; Brantford (Ontario) St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College at Gahanna, 7:30 p.m.; Westerville South at Grove City, 7:30 p.m.; Westerville North at Groveport, 7:30 p.m.; Hamilton Township at Worthington Kilbourne, 7 p.m.; Hilliard Davidson at Hilliard Bradley, 7:30 p.m.; Springfield at Hilliard Darby, 7:30 p.m.; Mount Vernon at Mansfield Madison, 7 p.m.; St. Francis at New Albany, 7:30 p.m.; Olentangy at Pickerington North, 7:30 p.m.; Westerville Central at Olentangy Orange, 7:30 p.m.; Middletown at Reynoldsburg, 7:30 p.m.; South at Thomas Worthington, 7:30 p.m.; Brantford (Ontario) North Park Collegiate at Upper Arlington, 7:30 p.m.; Eastmoor Academy at Northland, 7:30 p.m.; Independence at Linden, 7:30 p.m.; Franklin Heights at Briggs, 7:30 p.m.; Worthington Christian at Africentric, 7:30 p.m.; East at West, 7:30 p.m.; Lancaster at Walnut Ridge, 7:30 p.m.; Watkins Memorial at Mifflin, 7:30 p.m.; Withrow at Pickerington Central, 7:30 p.m.; Centennial at Bexley, 7 p.m.; Newark Catholic at Columbus Academy, 7 p.m.; Jonathan Alder at Amanda-Clearcreek, 7 p.m.; Lakewood at Berne Union, 7 p.m.; Jefferson Township at Fairfield Christian, 7 p.m.; Vinton County at Fairfield Union, 7:30 p.m.; Fisher Catholic at Crestline, 7 p.m.; North Union at Grandview, 7 p.m.; Grove City Christian at Portsmouth Notre Dame, 7 p.m.; Alexander at Harvest Prep, 7 p.m.; Belmont at Liberty Union, 7 p.m.; Logan Elm at Miami Trace, 7:30 p.m.; Miller at Millersport, 7 p.m.; Teays Valley at Chillicothe, 7:30 p.m.; Jackson at West Jefferson, 7 p.m.; Southeastern Local at Madison Plains, 7 p.m. Whetstone at Whitehall, 7 p.m.; London vs. Ready at DeSales, 7 p.m.; Watterson at Walsh Jesuit, 7:30 p.m.; Big Walnut at St. Charles, 7 p.m.; Heath at Granville, 7 p.m.; Newark at Licking Heights, 7 p.m.; Bloom-Carroll at Licking Valley, 7 p.m.; Mount Gilead at Northridge, 7 p.m.; Johnstown at Buckeye Valley, 7:30 p.m.; South Central at Cardington, 7 p.m.; Pleasant at Centerburg, 7 p.m.; East Knox at Strasburg-Franklin, 7 p.m.; Triad at Fairbanks, 7 p.m.; Fredericktown at Utica, 7 p.m.; Keystone at Galion, 7 p.m.; Highland at River Valley, 7 p.m.; Mansfield Senior at Marion Harding, 7 p.m.; Northmor at Lucas, 7 p.m.; Sept. 5 Reigning Sports Academy Thunder vs. Area non-league Nelsonville-York at Newark Catholic, 7 Columbus Crusaders, 7:30 p.m. p.m. Aug. 29 Sept. 12 Area non-league Area non-league Fairfield Christian at Rosecrans, 7 p.m. Circleville at Westfall, 7:30 p.m.

WEEK 4

WEEK 5

Sept 17 Mid-State League (all games at 7 p.m.) Bexley at Whitehall; Millersport at Fisher Catholic

Sept. 24 Ohio Capital Conference Thomas Worthington at Westland, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 Ohio Capital Conference (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Newark at Gahanna; Groveport at Grove City; Lancaster at Pickerington North; Reynoldsburg at Pickerington Central; Hilliard Davidson at Central Crossing; Marysville at Dublin Coffman; Olentangy Liberty at Upper Arlington; Canal Winchester at Westerville Central; Hilliard Darby at Dublin Jerome; Dublin Scioto at Westerville North; Hilliard Bradley at Westerville South; Delaware at Big Walnut; New Albany at Franklin Heights; Mount Vernon at Worthington Kilbourne; Olentangy at Olentangy Orange

Sept. 18 Ohio Capital Conference (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Gahanna at Groveport; Grove City at Reynoldsburg; Pickerington Central at Lancaster; Pickerington North at Newark; Central Crossing at Olentangy Liberty; Dublin Coffman at Hilliard Davidson; Westland at Marysville; Upper Arlington at Thomas Worthington; Westerville South at Canal Winchester; Dublin Jerome at Hilliard Bradley; Westerville Central at Dublin Scioto; Westerville North at Hilliard Darby; Big Walnut at Olentangy; Worthington Kilbourne at Delaware; Franklin Heights at Mount Vernon; Olentangy City League Orange at New Albany (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Beechcroft at Mifflin; Centennial at NorthCity League land; East at Whetstone; Marion-Franklin (all games at 7:30 p.m. unless noted) at Africentric; Independence at Briggs; Linden at Beechcroft; Mifflin at Centen- Eastmoor Academy at South; West at nial; East at Northland; Africentric at West, Walnut Ridge 7 p.m.; Briggs at Eastmoor Academy; South at Independence; Walnut Ridge at Mid-State League Marion-Franklin (all games at 7 p.m.) West Jefferson at Bexley; Columbus Central Catholic League Academy at Whitehall; Grandview at LonWatterson at St. Charles, 7 p.m. don; Amanda-Clearcreek at Teays Valley; Bloom-Carroll at Logan Elm; FairMid-State League field Union at Circleville; Hamilton Town(all games at 7 p.m.) ship at Liberty Union; Fisher Catholic at Grandview at Columbus Academy; Madi- Berne Union; Fairfield Christian at Millerson Plains at London; Hamilton Town- sport; Grove City Christian at Worthingship at Amanda-Clearcreek; Liberty Union ton Christian at Bloom-Carroll; Circleville at Teays Valley; Logan Elm at Fairfield Union; Grove Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference City Christian at Berne Union; Worthing- (all games at 7 p.m.) Buckeye Valley at Fairbanks; Galion at ton Christian at Harvest Prep Jonathan Alder; Marion Harding at North Union; Pleasant at River Valley; CardingMid-Ohio Athletic Conference ton at Centerburg; East Knox at North(all games at 7 p.m.) Buckeye Valley at Galion; Fairbanks at mor; Fredericktown at Mount Gilead; Marion Harding; Jonathan Alder at Pleas- Elgin at Highland ant; River Valley at North Union; Mount Gilead at Cardington; Centerburg at North- Area non-league mor; Highland at East Knox; Elgin at Fred- Beavercreek at Hartley, 7 p.m.; Ready at Minford, 7:30 p.m.; Watterson at Beneericktown dictine, 7:30 p.m.; Johnston at Granville, 7 p.m.; Heath at Licking Heights, 7 p.m.; Area non-league DeSales at Hartley, 7 p.m.; Ready at Newark Catholic at Lakewood, 7 p.m.; Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, 7:30 Linden at Licking Valley, 7 p.m.; Northp.m.; Fairfield Christian at West Jeffer- ridge at Bradford, 7:30 p.m.; St. Charles son, 7 p.m.; Licking Valley at Heath, 7 at Columbus Crusaders, 7:30 p.m.; Utica p.m.; Watkins Memorial at Johnstown, at Watkins Memorial, 7 p.m.; Madison 7 p.m.; Lakewood at Utica, 7 p.m.; Fort Plains at Harvest Prep, 7 p.m. Frye at Northridge, 7 p.m.; Columbus Sept. 26 Crusaders at Whetstone, 7:30 p.m. Area non-league DeSales at Covington (Ky.) Catholic, 1 Sept. 19 p.m. Area non-league Granville at Jackson, 7:30 p.m.; Madison Plains at Harvest Prep, 7 p.m.; Licking Heights at Newark Catholic, 7 p.m.

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FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

August 27, 2015

WEEK 6

COMPOSITE SCHEDULES: WEEKS 6-10

WEEK 7

Presented by

Oct. 1 Mid-State League Circleville at Bloom-Carroll, 7 p.m.

Oct. 8 Licking County League Newark Catholic at Johnstown, 7 p.m.

Oct. 2 Ohio Capital Conference (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Reynoldsburg at Gahanna; Grove City at Newark; Lancaster at Groveport; Pickerington Central at Pickerington North; Central Crossing at Upper Arlington; Dublin Coffman at Thomas Worthington; Hilliard Davidson at Westland; Olentangy Liberty at Marysville; Hilliard Darby at Canal Winchester; Westerville North at Dublin Jerome; Dublin Scioto at Westerville South; Westerville Central at Hilliard Bradley; Worthington Kilbourne at Big Walnut; Delaware at New Albany; Franklin Heights at Olentangy; Mount Vernon at Olentangy Orange

Oct. 9 Ohio Capital Conference (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Gahanna at Lancaster; Pickerington Central at Grove City; Groveport at Newark; Pickerington North at Reynoldsburg; Central Crossing at Dublin Coffman; Upper Arlington at Hilliard Davidson; Marysville at Thomas Worthington; Westland at Olentangy Liberty; Canal Winchester at Hilliard Bradley; Dublin Jerome at Dublin Scioto; Westerville South at Hilliard Darby; Westerville North at Westerville Central; Big Walnut at Mount Vernon; Olentangy Orange at Delaware; Worthington Kilbourne at Franklin Heights; New Albany at Olentangy

City League (all games at 7:30 p.m. unless noted) Beechcroft at East; Whetstone at Linden; Northland at Mifflin; Africentric at Independence; Briggs at South; Walnut Ridge at Eastmoor Academy; MarionFranklin at West, 7 p.m.

City League (all games at 7:30 p.m.) East at Centennial; Mifflin at Linden; Whetstone at Northland; South at Africentric; Briggs at Walnut Ridge; Eastmoor Academy at Marion-Franklin; West at Independence

Central Catholic League Watterson at DeSales, 7 p.m.

Mid-State League (all games at 7 p.m.) Madison Plains at Columbus Academy; West Jefferson at Grandview; London at Whitehall; Bloom-Carroll at AmandaClearcreek; Logan Elm at Circleville; Fairfield Union at Hamilton Township; Liberty Union at Teays Valley; Harvest Prep at Berne Union; Fairfield Christian at Grove City Christian; Worthington Christian at Fisher Catholic

Mid-State League (all games at 7 p.m.) Bexley at Madison Plains; Columbus Academy at West Jefferson; Whitehall at Grandview; Amanda-Clearcreek at Fairfield Union; Teays Valley at Hamilton Township; Liberty Union at Logan Elm; Berne Union at Fairfield Christian; Fisher Catholic at Grove City Christian; Harvest Prep at Millersport Licking County League (all games at 7 p.m.) Licking County League Granville at Licking Valley; Utica at Heath; (all games at 7 p.m.) Lakewood at Watkins Memorial Heath at Newark Catholic; Johnstown at Northridge; Licking Valley at Lake- Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference wood; Watkins Memorial at Licking (all games at 7 p.m.) Pleasant at Buckeye Valley; North Union Heights; at Fairbanks; River at Galion; Marion Harding at Jonathan Alder; Cardington Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference at Elgin; Centerburg at Fredericktown; (all games at 7 p.m.) Jonathan Alder at Buckeye Valley; Fair- East Knox at Mount Gilead; Northmor at banks at River Valley; Galion at Marion Highland Harding; North Union at Pleasant; Northmor at Cardington; Highland at Center- Area non-league/others burg; Fredericktown at East Knox; Mount Millersport at Bexley, 7 p.m.; Beechcroft at Watterson, 7:30 p.m.; Hartley at HamilGilead at Elgin; ton (Ind.) Southeastern, 7 p.m.; St. Charles at Licking Heights, 7 p.m.; Northridge at Area non-league Landmark Eagles at Centennial, 7:30 Hicksville, 7 p.m.; Warrensville Heights p.m.; St. Charles at Hartley, 7 p.m.; Ready at DeSales, 7:30 p.m. at Wynford, 7 p.m.; Granville at Utica, 7 p.m.; London at Worthington Christian, Oct. 10 7 p.m.; Kingston (Pa.) Wyoming Semi- Mid-State League nary College Prep vs. Columbus Cru- Worthington Christian at Fisher Catholic, 7 p.m. saders at Otterbein, 7:30 p.m.

WEEK 8

Oct. 15 Ohio Capital Conference (all games at 7 p.m.) Olentangy at Worthington Kilbourne; Lancaster at Reynoldsburg Oct. 16 Ohio Capital Conference (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Grove City at Gahanna; Groveport at Pickerington North; Newark at Pickerington Central; Thomas Worthington at Central Crossing; Dublin Coffman at Westland; Olentangy Liberty at Hilliard Davidson; Marysville at Upper Arlington; Canal Winchester at Dublin Jerome; Hilliard Darby at Dublin Scioto; Hilliard Bradley at Westerville North; Westerville Central at Westerville South; New Albany at Big Walnut; Delaware at Mount Vernon; Franklin Heights at Olentangy Orange City League (all games at 7:30 p.m. unless noted) Centennial at Beechcroft; Northland at Linden; Whetstone at Mifflin; Africentric at Walnut Ridge, 7 p.m.; Marion-Franklin at Briggs; Independence at Eastmoor Academy; South at West, 7 p.m. Mid-State League (all games at 7 p.m.) Bexley at London; Grandview at Madison Plains; Whitehall at West Jefferson; Logan Elm at Amanda-Clearcreek; Hamilton Township at Bloom-Carroll; Circleville at Liberty Union; Teays Valley at Fairfield Union; Fisher Catholic at Fairfield Christian; Grove City Christian at Harvest Prep; Millersport at Worthington Christian

WEEK 9

WEEK 10

Oct. 29 Oct. 22 Ohio Capital Conference Licking County League Licking Valley at Watkins Memorial, 7 Gahanna at Pickerington Central, 7 p.m. p.m. Oct. 30 Ohio Capital Conference Oct. 23 (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Ohio Capital Conference Grove City at Pickerington North; Grove(all games at 7:30 p.m.) Pickerington North at Gahanna; Lan- port at Reynoldsburg; Newark at Lancaster at Grove City; Pickerington Cen- caster; Dublin Coffman at Upper Arlingtral at Groveport; Reynoldsburg at Newark; ton; Westland at Central Crossing; Central Crossing at Marysville; Olentangy Marysville at Hilliard Davidson; Thomas Liberty at Dublin Coffman; Hilliard David- Worthington at Olentangy Liberty; Canal son at Thomas Worthington; Upper Arling- Winchester at Dublin Scioto; Westerville ton at Westland; Westerville North at Central at Dublin Jerome; Hilliard Bradley Canal Winchester; Dublin Jerome at West- at Hilliard Darby; Westerville South at erville South; Dublin Scioto at Hilliard Westerville North; Franklin Heights at Big Bradley; Hilliard Darby at Westerville Cen- Walnut; Olentangy at Delaware; New tral; Big Walnut at Olentangy Orange; Albany at Mount Vernon; Olentangy Delaware at Franklin Heights; Mount Ver- Orange at Worthington Kilbourne non at Olentangy; Worthington Kilbourne at New Albany City League (all games at 7:30 p.m. unless noted) City League Northland at Beechcroft; Centennial at (all games at 7:30 p.m.) Whetstone; Linden at East, 7 p.m.; AfriBeechcroft at Whetstone; Linden at Cen- centric at Eastmoor Academy; West at tennial; Mifflin at East; Briggs at Africen- Briggs; Independence at Walnut Ridge; tric; Eastmoor Academy at West, 7 p.m.; Marion-Franklin at South Independence at Marion-Franklin; Walnut Ridge at South Central Catholic League Hartley vs. Ready at Hilliard Bradley, 7 Central Catholic League p.m.; DeSales at St. Charles, 7 p.m. Mid-State League Mid-State League (all games at 7 p.m.) (all games at 7 p.m.) Bexley at Grandview; Columbus AcadColumbus Academy at Bexley; London emy at London; West Jefferson at Madiat West Jefferson; Madison Plains at son Plains; Amanda-Clearcreek at LibWhitehall; Amanda-Clearcreek at Cir- erty Union; Fairfield Union at Bloom-Carcleville; Bloom-Carroll at Teays Valley; roll; Circleville at Hamilton Township; Liberty Union at Fairfield Union; Hamil- Teays Valley at Logan Elm; Worthington ton Township at Logan Elm; Berne Union Christian at Berne Union; Fairfield Chrisat Millersport; Worthington Christian at tian at Harvest Prep; Millersport at Grove Fairfield Christian; Harvest Prep at Fisher City Christian Catholic Licking County League (all games at 7 p.m.) Licking County League Lakewood at Granville; Heath at John(all games at 7 p.m.) Granville at Licking Heights; Johnstown stown; Licking Heights at Licking Valley; at Utica; Northridge at Newark Catholic; Utica at Northridge

Licking County League (all games at 7 p.m.) Watkins Memorial at Granville; Northridge at Heath; Licking Heights at Lake- Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference (all games at 7 p.m.) wood; Newark Catholic at Utica Marion Harding at Buckeye Valley; Fairbanks at Pleasant; North Union at Galion; Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference River Valley at Jonathan Alder; Highland (all games at 7 p.m.) Buckeye Valley at River Valley; Galion at at Cardington; Centerburg at Mount Fairbanks; Jonathan Alder at North Union; Gilead; East Knox at Elgin; Northmor at Pleasant at Marion Harding; Cardington Fredericktown; at East Knox; Elgin at Centerburg; Fredericktown at Highland; Mount Gilead at Area non-league Lima Central Catholic at Hartley, 7 p.m.; Northmor Grandview at Grove City Christian, 7 p.m.; Lakewood at Heath, 7 p.m.; Area non-league Norwalk at East, 7:30 p.m.; Berne Union at Columbus Academy, 7 p.m.; Hartley Oct. 24 at Watterson, 7 p.m.; St. Charles at La Area non-league Salle, 7 p.m.; Johnstown at Licking Val- Northland at University School, 1 p.m.; ley, 7 p.m.; Logan at DeSales, 7 p.m.; Columbus Crusaders at Wheeling (W.Va.) Area non-league Columbus Crusaders at Middletown Linsly, 2 p.m. Lima Central Catholic vs. Ready at Upper Christian, 7 p.m. Arlington, 7 p.m.; Columbus Crusaders at Elkhart (Ind.) Christian, 2 p.m. Oct. 17

Mid-Ohio Athletic Conference (all games at 7 p.m.) Buckeye Valley at North Union; Fairbanks at Jonathan Alder; Galion at Pleasant; River Valley at Marion Harding; Fredericktown at Cardington; Centerburg at East Knox; Elgin at Northmor; Highland at Mount Gilead

Area non-league Winton Woods at Watterson, 7:30 p.m.; Whitehall at Fisher Catholic, 7 p.m.; Mifflin at Triway, 7 p.m.; Watkins Memorial at Newark Catholic, 7 p.m.; St. Charles at Northwest, 7 p.m.; Wheeling (W.Va.) Linsly at DeSales, 7 p.m.; Columbus Crusaders vs. Saltsburg (Pa.) Kiski Prep at Otterbein, 7:30 p.m.

Area non-league Ready at Wheeling (W.Va.) Linsly, 2 p.m.

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FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

Page 47

OCC-CARDINAL D IVISION

Dublin Scioto

Seniors are ready to step forward for Irish

By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

What the Dublin Scioto High School football team was able to accomplish last season might’ve seemed unlikely

following back-to-back losses in October. The reality was that another loss would’ve kept the Irish away from the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Not only did Scioto win its

final two regular-season contests to qualify for the postseason, but it won two playoff games to advance to the Division II, Region 5 final before losing to Olentangy 4129 to finish 8-5 overall.

TIME TO MOVE!

NOW ENROLLING FOR FALL We offer a variety of classes for ages 2½ years – adult For a free trial class call 614-761-2882 or visit dublindance.com

A strong senior class led the way last year. Now, a new group of seniors is being tasked with the same mission as the Irish open Aug. 28 at home against Worthington Kilbourne in the Battle of Hard

FOOTBALL is

an incredible game. Sometimes it’s so

incredible, it’s

unbelievable.

— TOM LANDRY

Good Luck,

dublin scioto

irish!

from your friends at

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Road. “I think it helps what we did last season,” 16th-year coach Karl Johnson said. “At the same time, every team is its own team. We have guys who got to play on that team, but it wasn’t their team. They were playing behind a pretty strong group, but it’s their turn now.” The Irish have a number of first-year starters, including at quarterback. Junior Noah Densel and sophomore Jayden Penn were competing during the preseason to take over for 2015 graduate Nathan Densel, a threeyear starter who finished 214for-353 passing for 2,377 yards and 11 touchdowns with 16 interceptions last year and was named first-team allOCC-Cardinal Division and special mention all-district. Scioto also must find defensive leaders with the graduation of Nick Conner, a firstteam all-district and all-league linebacker who is now playing at Ohio State. He played six-plus games and recorded 53 tackles, four sacks and an interception before sustaining a seasonending knee injury during a 36-31 loss to Dublin Jerome in week seven.

Scioto’s top tackler from last season also graduated in lineman Brennen Sawicki (75.5 tackles). “We don’t have a Nick or Brennen in this group, but we have some really good high school football players,” Johnson said. “They just have to develop their identity.”

OFFENSE

Three of Scioto’s five returning starters are wide receivers who will help power the spread, no-huddle offense. The Irish lost two of their top receivers from last year to graduation in Jake Keeley (55 catches, 665 yards, 4 TDs) and Justin Schafer (46 catches, 603 yards, 4 TDs) but return seniors Dominick Cutchember, Josh Vogel and Evan Wallace. Wallace had 50 catches for 411 yards and was honorable mention all-district. “Last year’s seniors provided a lot of energy and leadership and we need to build off that,” Vogel said. “We want to make our own run this season, and we need to put it together and make it work.” Senior Jestin Penn, who earned carries last season, will start at running back. Francis

IRISH >> 53

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August 27, 2015

OCC-CARDINAL D IVISION

Hilliard Bradley

Jaguars planning to open up offense By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Chance Levitt and the Hilliard Bradley High School football team are making a change. The Jaguars still will line up in a spread formation, but the offense will have more of a passing element than in the past with some changes in personnel. Levitt was quarterback for Bradley last season when it finished 5-5 overall and tied Dublin Jerome for fifth (3-4) in the OCC-Cardinal Division behind champion Hilliard Darby (7-0). But junior Will Phillis moved from Olentangy Orange back to the Hilliard district, where he attended through the sixth grade. The addition of the 6-foot-4, 215-pound Phillis – who was second-team all-district at quarterback for Orange, completing 96 of 172 passing for 1,216 yards, 11 touchdowns and seven interceptions – gives Levitt a chance to put his legs to use in the hybrid wide receiver/running back slot position for the Jaguars. He compares it to another high-profile former central Ohio quarterback. “My situation could be compared to that of (Ohio State’s) Braxton Miller, who moved over to slot from quarterback to do what’s best for the team,” Levitt said. “Braxton’s doing it and even (former Ohio State quarterback) Terrell Pryor is doing it (for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL). “It’s been a pretty easy transition to the slot and I feel comfortable there. I’ll be able to make plays out in space and Will will be in the pocket.” Levitt completed 38 of 81 passes for 422 yards with three touchdowns and five interceptions and finished with 376 yards rushing and two touchdowns on 104 carries. “Our passing game will be more sophisticated, and we’ll be more balanced instead of being run-heavy,” said Mike LoParo, who enters his fifth season. “It’s a little more advanced than we’ve been in the past. We’ll still have to be able to run the ball, but we’ll have a different look. “This will give Levitt the chance to both run and catch the ball. He’s having a lot of fun and doesn’t have a lot of the pressure. He can also return kicks, play at cornerback and use all of his skills. Being a quarterback can limit playing in some of those areas.” Senior wide receiver Derek Dunnagan is happy to see his childhood friend return. “We go to the same church (Alkire Road Church of Christ), so I’ve been friends with Will August 27, 2015

At a glance *Westerville Central............L, 31-7 *Canal Winchester...........W, 24-14 *Westerville North ...........W, 21-14 *Dublin Scioto....................L, 13-7 *Hilliard Darby .................L, 27-14 *League contest INSIDE THE JAGUARS •Coach: Mike LoParo, fifth season •Top players: Alex Balahtsis (OL/DL), Nick DeWolf (DL), Derek Dunnagan (WR/DB), Jacob Himes (OL), Chance Levitt (RB/WR/DB), Will Phillis (QB), Blake VanVorhis (DL), Chris Wall (RB/LB), Brady Whittekind (WR/K/P) and Patrick Yeo (DL) •Key losses: Trey Anderson (RB/DB), Jordan Haywood (RB/LB), Kenny Sanford (RB/DB) and Austin Upper (OL/DL)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......at Thomas Worthington Sept. 4....................at Middletown Sept. 11 .........vs. Hilliard Davidson *Sept. 18 ...........vs. Dublin Jerome *Sept. 25 ........at Westerville South *Oct. 2.........vs. Westerville Central *Oct. 9...........vs. Canal Winchester *Oct. 16 ..........at Westerville North *Oct. 23...............vs. Dublin Scioto *Oct. 30................at Hilliard Darby 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 3-4 OCC-Cardinal) Thomas Worthington .........W, 43-0 Reynoldsburg..................W, 21-17 Olentangy Orange ............L, 21-13 *Dublin Jerome...............W, 44-13 *Westerville South..............L, 38-7

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offensive style, but also get a key component back on their offensive line. Senior Jacob Himes returns after starting as a sophomore, but he missed last season with a shoulder injury. The tackle is hard to miss, standing 6-foot9, 370 pounds. “I missed last year with the shoulder injury and now I want to help my teammates reach our goals and make the playoffs for the first time,” Himes said. “Being off with the injury, I learned that you never know when a play could be your last. You can’t take any play off. You have to go 100 percent on every rep.” OFFENSE Also returning on the line The Jaguars have a new are senior center Shane Cor-

for a while,” Dunnagan said. “We’ve been working to get the changes down and everyone is buying into what we have been doing.” Levitt was impressed with the way the Jaguars offense looked when it was unveiled Aug. 11 in a scrimmage at Granville. “It was good to get out there and see how we could perform against a defense other than our own,” said Levitt, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Thomas Worthington. “We did what we wanted to do a lot of the time, but we still can get better.”

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Chance Levitt will move from quarterback to a hybrid wide receiver/running back slot position to make room for Will Phillis, a transfer from Olentangy Orange. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

nett (6-0, 245) and senior tackle Jake Siford (6-2, 275). The three returnees up front will be opening holes for a running game that will feature a number of backs. Levitt will get his carries along with senior Chris Wall, who was second-team all-district and allleague but whose primary role will be at linebacker. Also in the running back mix are juniors Robert Hyrmer and Jacob Reitz, and sophomore Adam McCardle. Phillis will throw to a group of receivers led by Dunnagan (6-4, 210) and Levitt. Other

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potential targets include sen- league with 35 tackles, six tackiors Austin Rings and Brady les for loss and one fumble Whittekind and sophomore recovery. Kory Taylor (6-5, 190). Seniors Alex Balahtsis and Patrick Yeo also return on the DEFENSE line, with senior Blake VanThe Bradley defense fea- vorhis back in the secondary. “Defense could be a strong tures a 50-shade alignment with six returning starters led by suit with our front seven being Wall, who had 109 tackles, a good crew,” said LoParo, three forced fumbles, six sacks, whose team moved up to Divi12 tackles for loss and an inter- sion I, Region 2 from Division II, Region 5. “We have a lot of ception. Senior Jack Erwin also ground to cover in the secondreturns at linebacker, while jun- ary in terms of the loss of expeior Nick DeWolf is back up rience and needed growth, but front after earning honorable JAGUARS >> 53 mention all-district and all-

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Page 49

OCC-CARDINAL D IVISION

Hilliard Darby

Panthers want it to be business as usual ByAARON BLANKENSHIP THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ........at Clayton Northmont Sept. 4 ...........vs. Hilliard Davidson Sept. 11 ..................vs. Springfield *Sept. 18 .......vs. Westerville North *Sept. 25 ............at Dublin Jerome *Oct. 2............at Canal Winchester *Oct. 9...........vs. Westerville South *Oct. 16 ................at Dublin Scioto *Oct. 23 ........at Westerville Central *Oct. 30 ............vs. Hilliard Bradley 2014 RESULTS (9-2 overall, 7-0 OCC-Cardinal) Clayton Northmont ..........W, 42-21 Hilliard Davidson................L, 10-7 Springfield ......................W, 38-20 *Westerville North .............W, 34-0 *Dublin Jerome...............W, 42-14 *Canal Winchester.............W, 42-7 *Westerville South...........W, 38-14 *Dublin Scioto.................W, 31-10

Hilliard Darby High School football coach John Santagata has plenty of good reasons to feel optimistic heading into his eighth season. The Panthers return six starters on both sides of the ball from last season, when they went 9-2 overall, won the OCC-Cardinal Division title and reached the Division I playoffs. Among the returnees is last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s OCC-Cardinal Player of the Year, senior quarterback Nick Powers. However, Santagata said the Panthers, who open Aug. 28 at Clayton Northmont, are guarding against getting caught up in the hype surrounding their team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of people hype up your team when you have good players coming back from a team that had success the year before, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been around long enough to know that a lot more than that goes into being a successful football team,â&#x20AC;? Santagata said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You need to have good senior leadership, good chemistry, and you need to stay healthy, just for starters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At this point, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not even thinking or talking about winning our league or making the playoffs. Our focus is on each dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s practice and the only goal weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re talking about is beating Clayton Northmont.â&#x20AC;? Darby has had five consecutive winning seasons and has finished with a winning record seven of the past eight years after putting together just one winning season in its first 10 seasons. Santagata has guided the Panthers to OCC-Cardinal titles in two of the past three seasons and has led them to the Division I playoffs four of the past

*Westerville Central.........W, 35-10 *Hilliard Bradley ..............W, 27-14 PLAYOFFS Cincinnati Colerain.............L, 28-7 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: John Santagata, eighth season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Kyle Colvin (RB), Mo Debyan (DL), Jake Harms (OL/DL), Braeden Hook (LB), Zach King (OL), Willie Lewis (WR/DB), Ritchie Palsgrove (RB), Nick Powers (QB), Mason Schmeling (LB) and Christopher Schultz (WR/DL) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Trevor Cox (RB/DB), Zack Donatelli (WR/DB), Logan Hernon (OL/DL), Lorenzo McLaurin (RB), Chad Miller (OL), Dwayne Oates (DB), Ben Radcliff (LB), Austin Wine (DB) and Nick Zawodney (OL/DL)

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first round of the Region 3 playoffs before losing to Pickerington North 24-14 in a regional semifinal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re the sixth-smallest Division I school in the state and the smallest in Region 2, so it wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be easy to reach the playoffs, much less win games there,â&#x20AC;? Santagata said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a very challenging nonleague schedule to contend with, and then every team in our league seems to have talented players again. If we can get through the regular season healthy and win enough games, then weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll talk about our chances of winning playoff games.â&#x20AC;?

offense after rushing for 1,229 yards and 18 touchdowns on 227 carries and throwing for 1,136 yards and 10 touchdowns last season. The other returning starters are senior left tackle Jake Harms, senior right tackle Zach King, senior wide receiver Christopher Schultz, senior fullback Kyle Colvin and senior slotback Ritchie Palsgrove. Colvin rushed for 574 yards and seven touchdowns on 117 carries last year and was second-team all-league. King was special mention all-league. Senior fullback Kyle Colvin rushed for 574 yards and seven touchdowns on 117 carries last season. Harms, Powers and seniors JENNA WATSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH Braeden Hook and Mason Schmeling are serving as team OFFENSE five seasons, including each of first round of the playoffs the Colerain in Region 2 last year. captains. the past three years. past two seasons, including a In 2012, the Panthers beat Powers is back at the helm â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have a good group of But Darby has lost in the 28-7 home loss to Cincinnati Westerville South 31-10 in the of Darbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spread option kids and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re getting good leadership from our senior captains,â&#x20AC;? Santagata said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re putting in a lot of hard work and trying to make sure our kids display good character on and off the field. That will play a big part in how successful Insurance we are.â&#x20AC;? Located at the corner of Hilliard-Rome & Roberts 5466 ROBERTS ROAD DEFENSE The returning starters in Darbyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4-3 defense are Harms Order online at FlyersPizza.com 5108 Cemetary Road Erie and Schultz at end, junior Mo Hilliard, Ohio 43026 Serving the Hilliard/West Side Insurance Debyan at tackle, Hook and 614-777-8999 of Columbus for over 38 years $ ! $ Schmeling at linebacker and www.securityplusinsurance.com Valid at all locations GOOD LUCK DARBY PANTHERS! senior Willie Lewis at cornerback. Last season, Hook (97 tackGood Luck Hilliard Darby! les) and Harms (22 tackles) were first-team all-league and Schmeling (81 tackles) and $ Schultz (59 tackles) were second team. $ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a lot of experience in our front seven, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re working on bringing our Excludes Alcohol olivetreecolumbus.com secondary up to speed because Cannot be combined weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re pretty inexperienced with any other offers back there with the exception Expires 10-31-15 2459 Hilliard Rome Rd. of Willie,â&#x20AC;? Santagata said. Next to Kroger

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August 27, 2015

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

Westerville North

Warriors look to build winning culture By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

of their wins.

Andrew Malick was around for some of the hardest times the Westerville North High School football team endured, as well as for the progression it has made the past two seasons. Entering his senior season, Malick pointed to one reason he thinks the Warriors can improve on last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s records of 2-8 overall and 1-6 in the OCC-Cardinal Division. That followed up a 3-7 record in 2013, the year North snapped a 45-game losing streak. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been building a culture of discipline,â&#x20AC;? said Malick, a three-year starter at linebacker and punter and a twoyear starter at running back who this year will add kicking to his responsibilities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about having our guys strive to get better and strive to win, and it comes from strong leadership. Not all of that can come from the coaches. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The culture idea, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about things like when we are doing drills, nailing the smaller things. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s getting an inch lower in your stance and springing harder to the ball. It can make a heck of a difference on the field.â&#x20AC;? North, which opens Friday, Aug. 28, at home against Marion-Franklin, must replace several key players lost to graduation, including starting quarterback Jake Downs and running back/linebacker Jake Hinz. Malick moves in from wide receiver, and will look to build on his 48.5 tackles from a year ago. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Malick will be the leader of the pack right now,â&#x20AC;? fourthyear Warriors coach Rodger Elander said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t carry the (running back) load by himself. Some programs like to have one guy run for 2,500 yards. I would rather see three guys run for 800. We have kids with some ability.â&#x20AC;? Senior Colin Fugger, who will play quarterback and linebacker, hopes to contribute a hard-nosed attitude. He smilingly admitted that style during the preseason, and while Warriors coaches might hold their breath seeing their quarterback invite contact, Fugger doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think so. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think they like it,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I mean, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high school football. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not looking to preserve my body for a multimillion-dollar contract. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to protect my left elbow from Lord knows what. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high school football. You can hit at any position.â&#x20AC;? North, which dropped to Division II, Region 5 from Division I, Region 2, begins OCC-Cardinal play Sept. 18 at defending champion Hilliard Darby. The Warriors were seventh in the league last year after defeating Canal Winchester for their only OCC-Cardinal victory, while the Panthers finished 7-0.

Offense Quarterbacks: *Colin Fugger (sr., 6-2, 195), Julian Malone (so., 5-11, 180) Running backs: *Andrew Malick (sr., 5-11, 208), *Brandon Mitchell (jr., 5-6, 144), Shauon Rogers (jr., 5-8, 175), Greg Shehee (so., 5-7, 169) Receivers: *Devin Pace (sr., 5-10, 146), *Brice Beverly (jr., 6-2, 167), Cameron Volkert (jr., 5-11, 155), Will Cooper (jr., 5-11, 168) Tight end: *Jacob Bueter (sr., 6-2, 195) Linemen: *Antonio Hernandez (sr., 5-10, 240), *Antonio Shelton (sr., 6-3, 275), *Connor Vermillion (sr., 5-5, 170), *Derek Downs (jr., 6-5, 285), *Drew Wilson (jr., 5-10, 240), Chris Muncie (sr., 5-9, 225), Mason Hay (jr., 6-1, 240), John Hutson (jr., 6-0, 263) Defense Linemen: *Hay, *Shelton, *J.J. Harvey (so., 6-0, 211), *Jeremiah Burton (fr., 6-2, 295), Jacob Strawser (so., 6-0, 250), Nick Surbaugh (sr., 510, 215), Alek Downs (so., 61, 225) Linebackers: *Bueter, *Fugger, *Malick, Hunter Wolfe (sr., 5-7, 194), Mason Plaxico (jr., 5-10, 172), Jack Williams (jr., 6-0, 160), Bodi Bien (so., 5-8, 187), Shehee Secondary: *Beverly, *Cooper, *Pace, *Jacob Woods (so., 5-11, 165), Volkert, Malone, Julian Slate (so., 5-8, 125) Special teams Kicker: *Malick Punter: *Malick Returners: Mitchell, Pace Long snapper: Williams (*Denotes projected starter)

August 27, 2015

THE LINEUP

Andrew Malick likely will rarely leave the field for the Warriors. He will play running back and linebacker while also handling the punting and kicking duties. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKSPORTS

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ........vs. Marion-Franklin Sept. 4 ........vs. Central Crossing Sept. 11 .................at Groveport *Sept. 18 ..........at Hilliard Darby *Sept. 25..........vs. Dublin Scioto *Oct. 2 ............at Dublin Jerome *Oct. 9 ......at Westerville Central *Oct. 16.........vs. Hilliard Bradley *Oct. 23 ......at Canal Winchester *Oct. 30 .....vs. Westerville South 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-6 OCC-Cardinal) Marion-Franklin............L, 27-14 Newark .......................W, 17-15 Groveport.....................L, 14-13 *Hilliard Darby................L, 34-0 *Dublin Scioto ................L, 27-6 *Dublin Jerome ...L, 42-41 (3OT) *Westerville Central ......L, 39-17 *Hilliard Bradley ...........L, 21-14 *Canal Winchester .......W, 17-14 *Westerville South ........L, 28-21 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Rodger Elander, fourth season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Brice Beverly (WR/DB), Colin Fugger (QB/LB), Antonio Hernandez (OL/DL),Andrew Malick (RB/LB/K/P), Antonio Shelton (OL/DL) and Drew Wilson (OL) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Gage Archer (OL/DL), Trey Crumrine (OL/DL), Jake Downs (QB/P), Jake Hinz (RB/LB), Mason Gresh (WR/DB) and Damani Johnson (WR/DB)

Julian Malone, according to Elander. Because of their athleticism, Elander said he will try to have both of them on the field as much as possible. Malone also is a defensive back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;(Malone) is a super allaround athlete. At times, he thinks he should step aside and let Colin have his chance his senior year,â&#x20AC;? Elander said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But I want (Malone) to step on someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s toes and say he is better. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of those things where Colin is a leader and likable and people respect him. â&#x20AC;&#x153;For the team, though, those two kids will be on the field somewhere. If one is at quarterback, the other will find his way onto the field on either offense or defense.â&#x20AC;? Offensive tackle Antonio Shelton â&#x20AC;&#x201C; who verbally committed to Illinois in July and also plays defensive tackle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; will anchor a line that also features returning starters in senior Connor Vermillion (left guard) and junior Drew Wilson (center). Junior Brice Beverly returns to lead the wide receivers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The one thing weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re missing offensively right now is a gamebreaker, a guy who can go 75 yards any time he touches the ball,â&#x20AC;? Elander said.

omore J.J. Harvey and 6-2, 295-pound freshman Jeremiah Harvey. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shelton was good last year (42 tackles), but heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really perfected his craft this year and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to be a fine leader,â&#x20AC;? Malick said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colin is the glue of our team. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a really smart guy. You can trust him with anything.â&#x20AC;? Senior Jacob Bueter is Northâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s projected third starter at linebacker, where 5-7, 169pound Greg Shehee also made early positive impressions. Beverly, junior Will Cooper, Malone and senior Devin Pace will anchor the secondary, from which Fugger moved to line-

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OFFENSE

While Fugger had the edge in the quarterback competition during the preseason, he was challenged by sophomore

Some of the same players who lead the Warriors on offense also will be expected to do so on defense. In addition to Malick and Fuggar at linebacker, the 6-3, 275-pound Shelton leads a defensive line that also includes junior tackle Mason Hay and a younger corps of defensive ends that features 6-0, 211-pound soph-

FOOTBALL is

an incredible game. Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so

backer. North lost one of its key contributors in safety Anthony Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Andrea, who had a teamleading five interceptions as a sophomore. He now plays for Olentangy.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Malick, who was honorable mention all-league last year for his all-around contributions, averaged 39.6 yards per punt in 2014 and will add kicking to his repertoire for the first time. The Warriors had six games decided by seven points or fewer last year, including both dpurpura@thisweeknews.com

incredible, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

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â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TOM LANDRY

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OCC-CARDINAL D IVISION

Westerville South

Wildcats working on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;smash-mouthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; style ByAARON BLANKENSHIP THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Westerville South High School football coach Kyle Stout emphasized the importance of improving his teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strength during the offseason, so that the Wildcats can play a more physical style this season. The first-year coach, who was a three-year starter on the offensive line at Ashland University and served as Wadsworthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offensive coordinator the past two seasons, said he is pleased with the way his players responded to that challenge. Stout has replaced Rocky Pentello, who led the Wildcats to a 158-93 record in 24 seasons, including a 2-1 start last year before being placed on paid administrative leave. The school received an anonymous tip that Pentello had shoved and slapped a player at practice. He was charged with assault and endangering a child and later announced his resignation from coaching and retirement from teaching.

At a glance *Dublin Scioto ............L, 56-49 OT *Hilliard Darby .................L, 38-14 *Westerville Central .........L, 45-32 *Dublin Jerome...............W, 48-46 *Westerville North ...........W, 28-21 *League contest INSIDE THE WILDCATS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Kyle Stout, first season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Jaelen Gill (RB), Daylan Haynie (DB), Anthony Imondi (OL/DL), Christian Nkansah-Wiafe (LB), Gunner Vogel (OL), Zach Wachalec (RB/DL) and Marcus Williamson (WR/DB) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Abu Daramy (WR/DB), Rob Dowdy (OL), Lincoln Flood (QB), Shuron Howard (LB), Charles Thigpen (DB) and Devan Wade (RB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28....................vs. Olentangy Sept. 4 ........................at Gahanna Sept. 11 ....................at Grove City *Sept. 18........at Canal Winchester *Sept. 25 ..........vs. Hilliard Bradley *Oct. 2.................vs. Dublin Scioto *Oct. 9 .................at Hilliard Darby *Oct. 15.......vs. Westerville Central *Oct. 23.............vs. Dublin Jerome *Oct. 30 ..........at Westerville North 2014 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 4-3 OCC-Cardinal) Olentangy..........................L, 38-6 Gahanna.........................W, 34-17 Grove City.........................W, 28-7 *Canal Winchester ............W, 45-7 *Hilliard Bradley................W, 38-7

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Tim Bates took over for the final seven games, guiding the Wildcats to a 6-4 finish. South tied Dublin Scioto for third at 4-3 in the OCC-Cardinal Divi-

sion behind champion Hilliard Darby (7-0). â&#x20AC;&#x153;Getting stronger and more physical was a big emphasis coming in, and our coaching

otterbein football 2015 DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

9/5

BUFFALO STATE

1:30

9/20

at Marietta*

6 p.m.

9/26

WILMINgTON*

2 p.m.

10/3

at Heidelberg*

1:30 p.m.

10/10

at Capital*

1:30 p.m.

10/17

MUSkINgUM*

7 P.M.

10/24

BALDWIN WALLAcE* 1:30 P.M.

10/31

at MOUNT UNION* 1:30 p.m.

11/7

JOhN cArrOLL*

11/14

at OHIO NORTHERN* 1:30 p.m.

Sophomore slotback Jaelen Gill is expected to be a dual threat, running and catching the ball. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKSPORTS

staff pushed our kids extremely hard in the weight room,â&#x20AC;? said Stout, whose team opens Aug. 28 at home against Olentangy and begins league play Sept. 18 at Canal Winchester. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The kids didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t complain. They had a really good summer in the weight room, and I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be ready to play more of a smash-mouth style of football this year.â&#x20AC;? Senior left tackle Gunner Vogel said the added strength has enabled the Wildcats to add more power-running plays to its pistol offense. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a lot more multiple, with a lot more power looks than we were last year when

we were mostly a spread offense,â&#x20AC;? Vogel said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Now, when we get into third-andshort situations, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be able to physically move defenders and run the ball a lot more effectively.â&#x20AC;? Senior middle linebacker Zach Wachalec said Southâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense also is better equipped to stop opponentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; running games. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We made enormous gains in the weight room and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be a lot more physical on both sides of the ball,â&#x20AC;? Wachalec said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think our defense is going to be a lot tougher to move the ball against.â&#x20AC;?

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OFFENSE

Southâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offense features a pair of Division I college recruits in Vogel (Northwestern) and junior wide receiver Marcus Williamson (Ohio State) and another potential one in sophomore slotback Jaelen Gill. Gill had 37 catches for 520 yards and four touchdowns as a freshman. He also rushed for 152 yards and a score on 23 carries and was second-team all-league. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My personal goal is to either rush for 1,000 yards or have 1,000 receiving, what-

WILDCATS >> 53

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Page 52

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

August 27, 2015

OCC-CARDINAL D IVISION

IRISH

At a glance

FROM >> 48

secondary, where senior Jack Suich also earned playing time Cutchember, a 2015 graduate, last season. was Scioto’s top rusher a year ago with 353 yards and nine SPECIAL TEAMS touchdowns on 82 carries. Scioto lost a valuable Penn will run behind a line weapon in 2015 graduate Sam that returns two starters in junCrosa, who made 14 of 18 iors Aleck Kelly and Brian field-goal attempts and 38 of Zimmerman. 39 extra-point attempts last

DEFENSE

Scioto’s 4-2-5 base defense will rely on the experience that returns in the middle in senior linebackers Wills Hutras and Joe Wallace, who helped anchor last year’s defense during Conner’s absence. “I think this is a group that can run well and we have good defensive team speed,” Johnson said. Senior Ras Lumpkins is the only returning starter on the line, but Johnson believes there will be depth with seniors Clint Conner and Cameron Dietich and juniors Brino Cruz and Yohan Puruggannan competing for playing time. Senior Brian Johnson is the only returning starter in the

season. He was first-team all-district and all-league. Hutras, sophomore Alex Davalos and freshman Grif Crosa were competing for the kicking duties. Vogel is the punter. Dominick Cutchember and the Irish will open Aug. 28 against Worthington Kilbourne in the Battle of Hard Road. THE LINEUP BARBARA J. PERENIC/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH Offense Quarterbacks: Noah Densel Tight end: *Austin Gillispie (sr., 6-1, 190), *Brino Cruz (jr., 5-11, 175), Jayden Penn (sr., 6-0, 200) (jr., 5-7, 230), *Yohan PurugLinemen: *Aleck Kelly (jr., gannan (jr., 5-6, 190), (so., 5-8, 140) Running backs: *Jestin 6-2, 265), *Brian Zimmerman Cameron Dietrich (sr., 5-10, Penn (sr., 5-10, 180), Cjai Har- (jr., 6-0, 220), *Josh Kocher 200) Linebacker: *Wills Hutras rison (sr., 5-8, 175) (sr., 5-10, 175), *Logan Stump Receivers: *Dominick (sr., 5-10, 295), *Reece (sr., 6-0, 175), *Christian Cutchember (sr., 5-9, 160), Schuetz (jr., 6-2, 265), Jun Hammond (jr., 5-10, 200), *Josh Vogel sr., 5-11, 170), Fukuzawa (jr., 5-10, 215) *Joe Wallace (sr., 6-0, 180), Defense *Evan Wallace (sr., 5-11, 155), Jared Nolan (jr., 5-10, 160), Linemen: *Ras Lumpkins Cole Baisden (jr., 5-11, 155) *Amari McMahon (sr., 5-11, Secondary: *Brian Johnson 170) (sr., 6-2, 240), *Clint Conner

FROM >> 52

DEFENSE

Returning to lead South’s 34 defense are senior free safety Daylan Haynie, Wachalec and Williamson at cornerback. Williamson had five interceptions and was first-team allleague a year ago, while Haynie (three interceptions) was second-team all-league and Wachalec was honorable mention all-league. Senior outside linebacker Jeremiah Byrd is confident the Wildcats’ defense will prove to be a strength instead of a weakness this season. South gave up an average of 28.3 points per game last year while missing the Division I playoffs for a second consec-

PANTHERS

FROM >> 50

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Nick Powers (sr., 6-2, 200) Running backs: *Kyle Colvin (sr., 58, 180), Brandon Nicol (jr., 5-10, 165), Jake Schnieder (so., 5-8, 200) Receiver: *Christopher Schultz (sr., 510, 185)

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(sr., 6-1, 180), *Jack Suich los (so.), Grif Crosa (fr.) (sr., 5-11, 185), Jake Bradley Punter: *Vogel (sr., 5-7, 127), Demetri BranLong snapper: *Johnson don (jr., 6-0, 170) (*Denotes projected starter) Special teams Kicker: Hutras, Alex Dava- sports@thisweeknews.com

JAGUARS

WILDCATS ever helps my team the most,” Gill said. Williamson had 19 catches for 249 yards and one touchdown and rushed for two touchdowns. A pair of seniors, wide receiver Jordan Humphrey and center Anthony Imondi, also are returning starters. Humphrey had 12 catches for 169 yards last season. “We’re going to run multiple formations out of the pistol this year, but we’re still hanging our hat on a lot of spread stuff because we have a lot of fast guys on this team,” Stout said.

*Hilliard Bradley ................W, 13-7 *Canal Winchester...........W, 45-14 PLAYOFFS Teays Valley ....................W, 38-14 Worthington Kilbourne.......W, 23-0 Olentangy........................L, 41-29 *League contest INSIDE THE IRISH •Coach: Karl Johnson, 16th season •Top players: Dominick Cutchember (WR),Wills Hutras (LB),Aleck Kelly (OL), Brian Johnson (DB), Ras Lumpkins (DL), Josh Vogel (WR), Evan Wallace (WR), Joe Wallace (LB) and Brian Zimmerman (OL) •Key losses: Nick Conner (LB/FB), Francis Cutchember (RB), Nathan Densel (QB), Brennen Sawicki (OL/DL), Jake Keely (WR) and Justin Schafer (WR)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...........vs. Worth. Kilbourne Sept. 4 ..............at Dublin Coffman Sept. 11 ....................at Marysville *Sept. 18 .....vs. Westerville Central *Sept. 25.........at Westerville North *Oct. 2............at Westerville South *Oct. 9...............vs. Dublin Jerome *Oct. 16 ..............vs. Hilliard Darby *Oct. 23 .............at Hilliard Bradley *Oct. 30.........vs. Canal Winchester 2014 RESULTS (8-5 overall, 4-3 OCC-Cardinal) Worthington Kilbourne.....W, 17-14 Dublin Coffman..................L, 35-7 Marysville.........................W, 38-3 *Westerville Central..........L, 26-16 *Westerville North .............W, 27-6 *Westerville South...........W, 56-49 *Dublin Jerome................L, 36-31 *Hilliard Darby .................L, 31-10

utive season. “We have a lot of speed and strength and we don’t have a major weakness this season,” Byrd said. “Our goals are to keep pressure on quarterbacks and to hold teams under 10 points a game.”

THE LINEUP

ton (jr.), *Anthony Imondi (sr.), *Jude Pedrozo (fr.), *Gunnar Vogel (sr.) Defense Linemen: *T.J. Blakley (sr.), *Imondi Linebackers: *Jeremiah Byrd (sr.), *Christian NkansahWiafe (jr.), *Wachalec Secondary: *Aaron Granger (jr.), *Daylan Haynie (sr.), *Dom Long (jr.), *Williamson Special teams Kicker: *Anthony Bonnell (sr.) Punter: *Jennings Returners: *Haynie, *Williamson Long snapper: *Pedrozo (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Brian Jennings (jr.); Trent Burke (jr.) Running backs: *Jaelen Gill (so.), *Jeremy Wachalec (sr.) Receivers: Evan Frank (jr.), *Jordan Humphrey (sr.), Mason Hunter (sr.), *Marcus Williamson (jr.) Linemen: *Brandon Brax- ablankenship@thisweeknews.com

FROM >> 49

we have some good athletes there.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Jaguars will have experience in the kicking game with Whittekind, who was second team all-district and all-league as a punter. He averaged 38.7 yards on 36 punts, and also is expected to handle the kicking duties. LoParo said Phillis also can punt if needed.

THE LINEUP

190) Linemen: Alex Balahtsis (sr., 6-1, 275), *Shane Cornett (sr., 6-0, 245), *Jacob Himes (sr., 6-9, 370), Jacob Kramb (sr., 6-0, 195), *Jake Siford (sr., 62, 275), Obi Igwe (jr., 6-1, 260), Jack Rogers (jr., 6-0, 225) Defense Linemen: *Balahtsis, Himes, *Patrick Yeo (sr., 6-1, 205), Brendan Bordner (jr., 6-5, 225), *Nick Dewolf (jr., 6-3, 245), Jared Rolan (so., 5-11, 230) Linebackers: *Jack Erwin (sr., 6-2, 180), *Wall,*Jared Rapp (jr., 6-2, 210) Secondary: Levitt, Jason Penwell (sr., 6-1, 175), Austin Routzong (sr., 5-9, 160), Jacob Roberts (sr., 5-11, 175), *Blake Vanvorhis (sr., 5-11, 165), Kevin Collins (jr., 5-11, 145) Special teams Kicker: *Whittekind Punter: *Whittekind, Phillis Returners: Levitt, Vanvorhis, Hyrmer, Daevon Anderson (so., 6-0, 145), Taylor Long snapper: *Cornett (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: Chance Levitt (sr., 6-0, 195), *Will Phillis (jr., 6-4, 215) Running backs: Levitt, *Chris Wall (sr., 5-11, 200), Robert Hyrmer (jr., 5-10, 190), Jacob (so., 5-9, 156), Nicol, Jon Oldaker (sr., 6- Reitz (jr., 5-10, 185), Adam 1, 175), Jonte Peterson (so., 5-10, 165) McCardle (so., 5-10, 180) Receivers: *Derek DunnaSpecial teams gan (sr., 6-4, 210), *Levitt, Kicker: TBD Austin Rings (sr., 5-9, 190), Punter: Powers Brady Whittekind (sr. 6-0, Returners: *Colvin, *Peterson Long snapper: Michael Browning (so., 170), Kory Taylor (so., 6-5, shennen@thisweeknews.com 5-8, 200), Schultz (*Denotes projected starter)

Linemen: *Josh Boyle (jr., 6-1, 256), *Keegan Farrell (jr., 6-0, 260), *Jake Harms (jr., 6-1, 205), *Jacob Huff (jr., 59, 230), *Nick Russell (jr., 6-0, 240) Defense Linemen: *Mo Debyan (jr., 6-0, 261), *Harms, *Huff, *Schultz Linebackers: *Braeden Hook (sr., 61, 195), *Mason Schmeling (sr., 6-2, 190) Secondary: *Willie Lewis (jr., 5-8, 160), Noah Li (jr., 5-8, 148), Taj Long ablankenship@thisweeknews.com

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Page 53

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

CELTICS

At a glance

FROM >> 45

Gecewich said.

for 476 yards and six touchdowns. Junior fullback Austin Booth, who rushed for 404 yards and five touchdowns on 142 carries, should lead the ground game. Senior center Emilio Paesano and junior Sam Neverov should anchor the offensive line. Senior Ratik Gambhir, who played as a sophomore but sat out last season, is expected to see action at guard.

DEFENSE

The Celtics will utilize a 34 base defense, led by senior inside linebacker Daniel Lex. “We have a lot more numbers out this year,” said Lex, who was honorable mention all-league. “The excitement is coming through. We have a really young coaching staff and they’re energetic. They let us goof around, but when it comes time to get down and do work, we have to do it or we get penalized for it.” Senior Ty Scott will play nose guard and senior Colson Poach will be at outside linebacker. The secondary features senior Conner Barco, and juniors Mikey Flanagan and Malachi Strickland. “We’re getting there,”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Poach will handle the kicking and junior Thomas Cooper will punt. Gecewich said that Poach has been effective during the preseason on kickoffs. Gecewich added junior Johnathan Kacherski or sophomore Dalton Kagy are competing to be the long snapper, and that Barco, senior Ryan Prochko, Ty Henderson and junior Thomas Henderson are among those expected to return punts and kickoffs.

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28............vs. Upper Arlington Sept. 4 ......................at Lancaster Sept. 11 .........at Olentangy Liberty *Sept. 18 ...........at Hilliard Bradley *Sept. 25.............vs. Hilliard Darby *Oct. 2...........vs. Westerville North *Oct. 9..................at Dublin Scioto *Oct. 16 ........vs. Canal Winchester *Oct. 23..........at Westerville South *Oct. 30.......vs. Westerville Central 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 3-4 OCC-Cardinal) Upper Arlington..................L, 36-0 Pickerington North ..........W, 17-16 Olentangy Liberty ............L, 35-12 *Hilliard Bradley...............L, 44-13

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PATRIOTS FROM >> 27 The Patriots’ top receiver last season was 2015 graduate Jacob Wiseman, who caught 59 passes for 641 yards and nine touchdowns and made special mention all-district and first-team all-league. The line returns two starters in seniors Nathan Brock and Ben Casale. Among the starters lost to graduation was firstteam all-district and all-league selection Hunter Littlejohn, who is playing at Indiana University.

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THE LINEUP

Liberty and Comfort for All

Offense Quarterback: *Zack Hazlett (sr., 6-foot-0, 157 pounds) Running backs: Daniel Lex (sr. 5-11, 197), Ryan Prochko (sr., 5-11, 170), *Malachi Strickland (sr., 5-9, 158), *Austin Booth (jr., 5-5, 166), Collin Hannan (jr., 6-1, 194), Robert Cope (so., 5-9, 167) Receivers: Conner Barco (sr., 5-11, 161), Skyler Blake (sr., 5-9, 158), Prochko, Thomas Henderson (jr., 5-11, 165), *Ty Henderson (jr., 6-0, 157), Matt Nesbit (jr., 5-11, 165), Shay Talton (jr., 5-9, 135), Max Darrow (so., 5-11, 158) Tight ends: Nick Bush (sr., 6-3, 200), Colson Poach (sr.,

*Hilliard Darby .................L, 42-14 *Westerville North..W, 42-41 (3OT) *Dublin Scioto.................W, 36-31 *Canal Winchester ............W, 42-6 *Westerville South ...........L, 48-46 *Westerville Central .........L, 49-28 *League contest INSIDE THE CELTICS •Coach: Bob Gecewich, first season •Top players: Austin Booth (RB), Zack Hazlett (QB/DB), Ty Henderson (WR), Daniel Lex (LB/FB), Sam Neverov (OL/DL) and Emilio Paesano (OL/DL) •Key losses: Armand Castilla (LB), Alex Cline (QB), Austin Hall (RB/LB) and Steve Kidwell (WR/DB)

(614) 784-0800 6-2, 220), Matt Preininger (jr., 6-2, 220) Linemen: Dom Burrell (sr., 5-11, 229), David Feng (sr., 64, 290), Ratik Gambhir (sr., 510, 189), Alex Kovach (sr., 511, 227), *Emilio Paesano (sr., 6-0, 280), *Sam Neverov (jr., 6-3, 290 Defense Linemen: Bush, Feng, *Ty Scott (sr., 6-0, 162), Johnathan Kacherski (jr., 6-3, 188), Josh Miller (jr., 5-7, 169), Cole Albright (so., 6-1, 179) Linebackers: *Lex, *Poach, Trey Mehrer (sr., 5-10, 191), Booth, Hannan, Preininger, Steven Tejeda (so., 6-0, 167),

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See our ad on pg. 91 Cade Kacherski (so., 6-1, 153) Secondary: Barco, Hazlett, Prochko, *Mikey Flanagan (jr., 5-10, 145), Thomas Henderson, *Strickland, Talton, Darrow Special teams Kicker: *Poach Punter: *Thomas Cooper (jr. 5-11, 241) Returners: Barco, Prochko, Ty Henderson, Thomas Henderson Long snappers: Johnathan Kacherski, Dalton Kagy (so. 5-8, 150) (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com

DEFENSE

The strength of Liberty’s defense in past seasons has been its linebackers, but Hale must groom an almost entirely new group. Lost to graduation were Goodwill (second-team all-district), Patrick Barboza (honorable mention all-district, second-team all-league), Jacob Worrell (honorable mention all-district, first-team all-league) and Smith (first-team allleague). Their replacements include sophomore Ed Warinner, who earned playing time as a freshman. Others competing for starting jobs include senior Joe Paolo and juniors Kyle Akerman and Chase Smith.

“I think this group will be fine. “We just need them to get some reps,” Hale said. In addition to Arcuri, Nathan Lind returns as a starter up front as the Patriots look to replace lineman Jake Hale, a secondteam all-district and all-league honoree last year. Senior Grant Uehlein and White are returning starters in the secondary.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Alex Lando (sr., 6-3, 180) Running backs: *Torre Bower (sr., 5-9, 160), *Trent Davies (so., 5-7, 165) Receivers: *Brendon White (jr., 6-2, 190), *Will Fowler (jr., 6-0, 170), *Drew Rosi (jr., 6-4, 235), Johnny Wiseman (so., 5-10, 160), Ben Rinsma (jr., 6-3, 185), Trey Stablein (jr., 5-11, 155) Linemen: *A.J. Arcuri (sr., 6-6, 255), *Nathan Brock (sr., 6-4, 265), *Ben Casale (sr., 60, 230), *Brendan Hunter (sr., 5-11, 208), Connor Parrish (jr., 6-1, 265), Matt Donahue (sr., 5-11, 225) Defense Linemen: *Arcuri, *Nick Lind (sr., 6-1, 195), Rosi, Donahue, Josh Fisher (jr., 6-0, 220),

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Page 54

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

August 27, 2015

CITY LEAGUE-NORTH DIVISION

Spotlight

Ryan embraces challenge with Linden By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

With he and his teammates having just finished a long running drill during a mid-August practice, senior two-way lineman Aric Rogers led the Linden-McKinley High School football team to a break of “family on three.” Those words weren’t suggested by first-year coach Jason Ryan, but they illustrated exactly what he’s hoping to build in the long run. “We’re definitely trying to create the family atmosphere,” Ryan said. “I’m in my first year trying to take it all in. I’m not taking a back seat, but when there’s a void I sit back and see who’s going to be positive.” For Ryan, being a part of a tight-knit community is something he’s used to. A 2003 St. Charles graduate, Ryan was a part of the program when the Cardinals reached the playoffs for the first time in 17 years in 2000 under former coach Mark Crabtree. Then as a senior tight end and linebacker in 2002 under former coach Jeff Liebert, Ryan made special mention all-district as his team made it back to the postseason. He has spent the last seven seasons as an assistant at his alma mater. Jeff Pharion has headed the Cardinals’ program since 2009, leading them to playoff berths in 2010 and ’13. Ryan is an Ohio State graduate who essentially never has left home when it comes to football — until now. “Jason Ryan is a very thorough and organized coach,” said Pharion, who first met Ryan when Ryan was a jun-

Inside the division 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Beechcroft 6-0 11-2 Northland 5-1 7-3 Centennial 4-2 5-5 Mifflin 3-3 3-6 Whetstone 2-4 3-7 Linden-McKinley 1-5 2-8 East 0-6 1-9 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Sept. 18 Linden at Beechcroft Mifflin at Centennial East at Northland Sept. 25 Beechcroft at Mifflin Centennial at Northland East at Whetstone

for Ryan, who got married in April and was hired as Linden’s coach in late May. He succeeds Aaron Owens, who left to take a teaching job in another building. During Owens’ tenure, the Panthers went a combined 1149, with their best seasons coming in 2009 and ’11 when they were 3-7 overall. Linden was 2-8 last fall. Despite being a part of past playoff teams at St. Charles, Ryan believes he understands how difficult it can be to change a culture. While the Panthers never have made the playoffs and last had a winning season when they went 6-4 in 2001, St. Charles is 0-5 all-time in the postseason. In 2013, St. Charles beat DeSales for the first time since 1976 and won its first league championship since 1962 by going 2-0 in the CCL-Silver Linden first-year coach Jason Ryan spent the last seven years as an assistant at St. Charles. Division. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS “St. Charles is my home and I love it there, but I saw an ior varsity player. “I’ve student of the game of foot- been before.” opportunity at Linden to use enjoyed watching him become ball and he’ll take the Linden Life has been full of new football as a positive and try a fine man. He’s a meticulous program to places it’s never adventures in recent months to re-energize the community,”

Linden-McKinley

New faces surround Panthers program By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

During its first scrimmage, the Linden-McKinley High School football team was reminded about the limitations of having a tiny roster. Keeping players in shape without wearing them out is just one of the challenges the Panthers will have this fall considering they usually had only 25 to 35 players throughout the preseason. “We had 56 plays (Aug. 10 in a scrimmage) versus Pickerington Central, and our guys were gassed, but at the same time it was good,” coach Jason Ryan said. “Some days we’ve only had in the mid-20s (in player attendance) so we’ve got to keep their legs fresh. Our numbers are so low that we’ve had as many as 32 and as few as in the teens. We’re building from the base up with a new outlook on football.” New might be the best way to charAugust 27, 2015

acterize just about everything regarding the program. In addition to Ryan being a head coach for the first time after serving as an assistant for the last seven seasons at St. Charles, nearly every key player a year ago under former coach Aaron Owens was lost to graduation. “The work we were able to get in (against Pickerington Central) was good,” junior Tre’ Sanders said. “It’s been an overall good experience so far. The team is coming along a lot better with the new coaching staff. There are a lot of new players and a lot of new formations this year.” Under Owens, who left to take a teaching position at another school, the Panthers were 2-8 overall and 1-5 in the City League-North Division last season. Linden snapped a 19-game league losing streak when it beat Columbus East 45-8 in its regular-season finale. Africentric, the other team the Pan-

thers beat last season (56-16 in their opener), is not back on the schedule. Orrville, which made the Division IV playoffs in 2011 but has gone a combined 7-23 over the last three seasons, including 2-8 last year, will play host to the Panthers in the opener Aug. 28. Also new to the schedule are Licking Valley, which was a Division IV playoff qualifier last year, Columbus Academy and Independence. Also gone from the schedule is Ansonia, a Division VII program that went 3-7 but beat the Panthers 28-20 a year ago. “I would say the attitude from the core guys is good,” Ryan said. “There can be no growth without pain. The challenge every day is to be positive.”

“He’s been the most consistent guy,” Ryan said. “He’s more of a runner than a thrower, but he’s athletic and tough.” Among the other players likely to take on roles in skill positions are seniors Maurice Fountain and Michael Simon and juniors Cordell Calloway (RB) and Da’Sean Henry (WR). Simon’s status heading into the season is uncertain because of an injury. Senior Aric Rogers, who is in his third season with the program, leads an offensive line that also includes seniors Daevon Britford and Tamarko Lawson. “We’ll (have) multiple (offensive looks),” Ryan said. “We’ll try to get to the fourth quarter as quickly as possible. Our two words have been consistency and intensity because you can OFFENSE have the fanciest scheme but it doesSanders, who is expected to start at n’t matter if you’re not getting consisquarterback, has been tasked with lead- tency.” ing an offense that was held to 14 points or fewer six times last season. PANTHERS >> 66

FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2015 Football Preview

Oct. 2 Beechcroft at East Whetstone at Linden Northland at Mifflin Oct. 9 East at Centennial Mifflin at Linden Whetstone at Northland Oct. 16 Centennial at Beechcroft Northland at Linden Whetstone at Mifflin Oct. 23 Beechcroft at Whetstone Linden at Centennial Mifflin at East Oct. 30 Northland at Beechcroft Centennial at Whetstone Linden at East

Ryan said. “I was the codefensive coordinator two years ago when (St. Charles) won the CCL championship. We’ve got problems at St. Charles like we do here. They’re way different, but (both programs are) undersized and undermanned. “Once you’re in a place for about a decade, and I was at St. Charles for seven years as a coach in addition to being there for four years as a player, it’s natural to want other opportunities to grow. It’s a mutually beneficial opportunity.” Instilling a new system and set of values hasn’t been easy, but players like Rogers are keeping the big picture in perspective. “We’re learning a lot of new stuff, and it’s great,” Rogers said. “It’s (also) been a little tough. We could be better. Just having the seniors be up is going to have an effect on everybody else. There’s a lot of new guys here.” julrey@thisweeknews.com

FOOTBALL

IS LIKE LIFE — it requires

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Linden-McKinley

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Page 55

CITY L EAGUE -N ORTH D IVISION

Beechcroft

Cougars determined to take next step By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM For the first time in program history, the Beechcroft High School football team won more than one playoff game in a season when it earned a Division IV, Region 13 runner-up finish last fall. The odds would seem to be against the Cougars improving on that finish considering they lost a senior class that included three players who will play at the FCS level this year as well as a running back who approached 2,000 yards rushing. Just don’t say that to senior quarterback Macyah Fleming. “I think we’re going to win the City League-North Division again and (regardless of which postseason) division we’re in, it’ll be a test, but I still think we’re ready,” Fleming said. Beechcroft, which will play in Division III, Region 9, has made the playoffs 16 times but is just 5-16 all-time in the postseason. In other words, what the Cougars accomplished last season – when they finished 11-2 overall and 6-0 in the City-North – is the start of what they hope to build for years to come. “I see (last year) as us gaining an understanding of the meaning of being in a playoff game,” senior linebacker Tyree Mapp said. “It just makes us more humble. Last year created a lot of excitement and we just want to go farther.” For that to happen, Beechcroft won’t have the benefit of 10 games worth of computer points to build with because it is open for week one of the regular season. The Cougars open Sept. 4 at home against Marion-Franklin, which has made the playoffs 11

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At a glance

Senior Macyah Fleming returns at quarterback after completing 84 of 164 passes for 1,350 yards and 18 touchdowns in leading the Cougars to an 11-2 record. KRISTEN ZEIS/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

consecutive seasons. The Red Devils last met Beechcroft in the first round of the Division II, Region 7 playoffs in 2008 and won 34-28 in two overtimes in what was former Cougars coach Tom Dunlap’s last game before retiring. Central Crossing, which lost to Beechcroft 26-7 but was a Division I playoff qualifier last year, will play host to a rematch Sept. 11. Watterson replaces Hartley on the schedule and will play host to the Cougars on Oct. 9. “Last year was a great experience with a lot of teaching points,” said Trevor White, who took over as coach last season after previously coaching nowclosed Brookhaven for three seasons. “They overcame a lot of adversity, which is big for us this year. We’ve got an average size senior class of about 15, but a very small freshman class. We’ve got some quality players this year, but no depth.”

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OFFENSE

After completing 84 of 164 passes for 1,350 yards with 18 touchdowns and rushing for seven scores last fall, Fleming could be asked to do even more this season. The Cougars lost David Peoples, a first-team all-district running back who finished with 1,814 yards and 28 touchdowns, to graduation. He’s now attending a prep school. Also back is senior wide receiver Mike Powers, who had 29 catches for 565 yards and 11 touchdowns while making second-team all-district. Senior Najeed De’Young is expected to line up at a variety of offensive positions, including running back. Seniors Rodell Rahmaan and Robert Williamson are wide receivers with experience. Although the Cougars return

2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 4 .........vs. Marion-Franklin Sept. 11........at Central Crossing *Sept. 18.....vs. Linden-McKinley *Sept. 25......................at Mifflin *Oct. 2 ............at Columbus East Oct. 9 .....................at Watterson *Oct. 16................vs. Centennial *Oct. 23.................at Whetstone *Oct. 30.................vs. Northland 2014 RESULTS (11-2 overall, 6-0 City-North) Dayton Dunbar.............W, 47-12 Central Crossing ............W, 26-7 Walnut Ridge ...............W, 18-14 *Whetstone....................W, 48-8 *Linden-McKinley ..........W, 41-8 *Mifflin ........................W, 33-16 *Columbus East .............W, 65-0 Hartley .........................L, 35-20 *Centennial....................W, 49-7 *Northland.....................W, 21-7 PLAYOFFS Bexley .........................W, 39-20 Zanesville Maysville .......W, 35-0 Steubenville..................L, 29-21 *League contest INSIDE THE COUGARS •Coach: Trevor White, second season •Top players: Najeed De’Young (RB/TE/LB), Macyah Fleming (QB), Daiyon Goins (OL/DL), Tyree Mapp (LB), Mike Powers (WR/DB), Rodell Rahmaan (WR/LB), Aarin SmootBaker (OL/DL/LS) and Robbie Williamson (WR/DB) •Key losses: Stefen Banks (OL/DL), Asan Crego (WR/DB), Tyree Dukes (OL), Chaquez Fair (OL/DL), Colby Ketchens (DB), Anthony McClendon (DL), Steven Pelletier (OL/DL), David Peoples (RB/DB) and Takeyvion Simmons (LB)

Mike Powers was second-team all-district after catching 29 passes for 565 yards and 11 touchdowns. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

senior Daiyon Goins and junior Aarin Smoot-Baker to their offensive line and also figure to start senior DaVanie Anderson, they spent much of the preseason determining who would start at the other two spots. “Our offensive skills are definitely one of the strengths of the team,” White said. “A lot will hinge on our offensive line. That’s where we have to find some answers.”

DEFENSE

Beechcroft lost a trio of standout defensive players to graduation in Chaquez Fair (firstteam all-district on offensive

line, starter on defensive line), Takeyvion Simmons (first-team all-district linebacker) and Stefen Banks (District Player of the Year on defensive line). All three are playing for Savannah State in the FCS. Another 2015 graduate, Anthony McClendon, made second-team all-district on the defensive line despite being in his first season in the sport. Looking to lead this year’s defense are Smoot-Baker and junior Tavion Bryant on the line, Mapp and De’Young at linebacker and senior Kasaad Tyree, Williamson and junior Raequawn Alexander in the

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secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Fleming was the second-team all-district punter after averaging 37 yards last season. The Cougars must replace Abass Ceesay at kicker but return Powers and Williamson to the return unit.

THE LINEUP

Sullens (sr.), Dai-Shaw Cottrell (jr.), Shemar Samuel (so.) Receivers: *Mike Powers (sr., 5-10, 160), *Rodell Rahmaan (sr., 6-3, 205), *Robert Williamson (sr., 5-6, 150), Matt Parks (jr.) Tight end: *De’Young Linemen: *JaVanie Anderson (sr., 5-8, 160), *Daiyon Goins (sr., 6-3, 305), Moses Kamara (sr., 5-7, 180), Aarin Smoot-Baker (jr., 6-3, 260), Deonteze Newsom (so.) Defense Linemen: *Tavion Bryant (jr., 6-2, 190), *Cottrell, *SmootBaker, *Newsom Linebackers: *De’Young, Amin Kamara (sr., 5-10, 205), *Tyree Mapp (sr., 6-0, 180), *Rahmaan, Adam Twyman (sr.) Secondary: Powers, *Kasaad Tyree (sr., 6-0, 180), *Williamson, *Raequawn Alexander (jr., 5-11, 180), *Parks Special teams Kicker: To be determined Punter: *Fleming Returners: *Powers, *Williamson, *Samuel Long snapper: *Smoot-Baker (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Macyah Fleming (sr., 6-3, 200), Kyle Barrett (jr., 6-2, 175) Running backs: Najeed De’Young (sr., 5-9, 180), *Joe julrey@thisweeknews.com

August 27, 2015

CITY L EAGUE -N ORTH D IVISION

Centennial

Upbeat Stars show plenty of confidence ByAARON BLANKENSHIP THISWEEKSPORTS.COM The Centennial High School football team enters the season with a greater sense of optimism than it has had in more than a decade. Senior slotback/cornerback Tyler Patterson said the positive mindset is the direct result of the enthusiasm created last season when Centennial went 5-5 overall for its first non-losing record in 13 years. The five-win season was the Stars’ best since they earned 6-4 marks in 2000 and 2001. “Since we started winning more games, more people at our school have started to like football and support us, and we have a lot more confidence in ourselves,” Patterson said. “That’s helped our recruiting because more people are wanting to be a part of the football team, including some who didn’t want to play football in the past. “We’ve been looking forward to this season because we’re motivated to do better than we did last year. We’re definitely shooting to finish with a winning record this year.” The Stars open Aug. 28 at Grandview and play host to Mifflin on Sept. 18 in their City League-North Division opener. Third-year coach Donte Goosby said his team will need to find a way to beat some of the more competitive squads on its schedule to finish with a winning record. The Stars went 5-0 last year against squads that finished with losing records, beating Franklin Heights (51-27), Linden-McKinley (27-14) Mifflin (42-27), Columbus East (420) and Whetstone (53-21). Against opponents that finished with winning records, the Stars lost to Grandview (147), Bexley (41-28), Northland (44-28), DeSales (42-0) and Beechcroft (49-7).

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .................at Grandview Sept. 4..........vs. Columbus West Sept. 11.......................at Bexley *Sept. 18 ....................vs. Mifflin *Sept. 25 ................at Northland Oct. 2 ...vs. Chillicothe Landmark Christian Academy *Oct. 9 ...........vs. Columbus East *Oct. 16.................at Beechcroft *Oct. 23 ......vs. Linden-McKinley *Oct. 30.................at Whetstone 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 4-2 City-North) Grandview......................L, 14-7 Franklin Heights...........W, 51-27 Bexley ..........................L, 41-28 *Linden-McKinley ........W, 27-14 *Mifflin ........................W, 42-27 *Northland....................L, 44-28 DeSales..........................L, 42-0 *Columbus East ...........W, 62-24 *Beechcroft ....................L, 49-7 *Whetstone..................W, 53-21 *League contest INSIDE THE STARS •Coach: Donte Goosby, third season •Top players: Darius Echols (OL/DL), Timmy Leach (OL), Tyler Patterson (RB/DB) and Marquise St. John (OL/LB) •Key losses: Tyler Hill (RB), Jeremy Johnson (QB), Kenny Lambert (OL/DL), Anthony Slappy (WR/DB), Hunter Waits (OL/LB) and DarSean Watts (RB/LB)

Tyler Patterson is one of five starters back on offense for the Stars. A year ago, Patterson rushed for 290 yards and caught 19 passes for 252 yards. JENNA WATSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

obstacle is going to be overcoming the inexperience we have at several key positions, because you can’t have too many blown coverages or assignments if you’re going to beat a team like Grandview. We’ll need to find a way to win our closer games against the better teams on our schedule if we’re going to take another step forward this year.”

OFFENSE

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The Stars finished third (42) in the City-North behind Beechcroft (6-0) and Northland (5-1). “We’re coming off two seasons of growth, so my hope is that we can build off the energy and momentum that we had going into the offseason,” said Goosby, whose team finished 4-6 in 2013 after going 1-9 the previous season. “Our biggest

Five starters have returned to lead the Stars’ spread offense in senior wide receiver Joe Cooper, Patterson, senior left guard Marquise St. John, junior right guard Darius Echols and junior right tackle Timothy Leach. Patterson rushed for 290 yards and four scores on 44 carries and had 19 catches for 252 yards and two touchdowns last year. Cooper had nine catches for 116 yards and a score. Leach was honorable mention all-league. The Stars will need to find a way to replace the production of some key 2015 graduates, including quarterback Jeremy Johnson (112-for-212 passing for 1,711 yards, 16

touchdowns), wide receiver Anthony Slappy (44 catches for 645 yards, 8 touchdowns), tailback DarSean Watts (1,094 yards, 17 touchdowns on 141 carries), slotback Tyler Hill (29 catches for 527 yards, 4 touchdowns) and center Kenny Lambert. Johnson, Slappy and Watts were first-team all-league, and Hill and Lambert were secondteam all-league. Goosby said he’s counting on senior quarterback Luke Fallon, junior wide receiver T.J. McCoy and senior slotback Dmitri Warner to help fill the void. “We lost a lot of guys who played a lot of snaps, including Jeremy who was a threeyear starter and probably the greatest quarterback in Centennial’s history,” Goosby said. “We’re going to need to spread teams out and find lanes to run in. We’re pretty athletic on the edges, so we need to get guys like Tyler Patterson the ball in space so he can make plays for us. “Luke isn’t going to be able to throw the ball all over the field the way Jeremy did, but he’s a little more athletic, so we’ll use more designed runs for our quarterback this year.”

MONARCHS FROM >> 23

with Snyder handling the punting.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Nathan Snyder (jr., 6-4, 200) Running backs: Holden Cruea (sr., 5-7, 180), Bobby Loeffler (sr., 5-10, 185), *Ty Stiers (sr., 5-10, 185) Receivers: *Austin Erwin August 27, 2015

(sr., 5-10, 160), Casey Gould (sr., 5-9, 160), Jake Hiltscher (sr., 5-6, 150), *Pierce Scott (sr., 6-3, 205), Jake Urbano (sr., 6-0, 155) Tights ends: Morgan Kessler (sr., 6-3, 175), *Noah Wiseman (sr., jr., 6-1, 205) Linemen: *Andrew Blumenschein (sr., 5-11, 275), *Ben Roshon (sr., 6-1, 225), Zack Kilgore (sr., 5-9, 235), Brandon Maisenbacher (jr., 6-0, 235),

*Gunner Daniels (jr., 5-10, 235), Xavier Friley (jr., 6-1, 280) Defense Linemen: *Blumenschein, *Jack Essig (sr., 6-1, 220), Kilgore, Cameron Hill (jr., 6-0, 215), Friley, Steven Wolfe (jr., 6-0, 230) Linebackers: Spencer Hall (sr., 6-2, 185), *Wiseman, *Anthony LaCella (jr., 5-6, 180) Secondary: *Gould,

*Hiltscher, *Stiers, Jacob Henley (jr., 5-9, 155), Michael Ross (jr., 6-2, 150) Special Teams Kicker: Tyler Bosch (jr., 58, 140), *Snyder Punter: *Snyder Returners: Cruea, Erwin, Stiers Long snapper: *Daniels (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com

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DEFENSE

Centennial’s 4-3 defense features a trio of third-year starters in St. John at linebacker, Echols at end and Patterson at cornerback. Echols, Patterson (4 interceptions) and St. John were second-team all-league last year. Also back are Cooper (3 interceptions) at linebacker, Fallon at safety, junior end Rodney Groves and sophomore safety Coreion Watts. “We’ll need to be better on defense to be competitive with the top teams in the CityNorth,” Goosby said. “Beechcroft and Northland are still the teams to beat in our league, but Mifflin and Whetstone are going to be tough to get a win against, too. “Those teams have athletic guys who are fast, so we’ve got to find a way to stop them.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: Luke Fallon (sr.) Running backs: Tyler Patterson (sr.), Dmitri Warner (sr.) Receivers: Joe Cooper (sr.), T.J. McCoy (jr.) Linemen: Tyrique Crusoe

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(sr.), Darius Echols (jr.), Timothy Leach (jr.), Marquise St. John (sr.), Ja’Cree Tyler (sr.) Defense Linemen: Crusoe, Echols, Rodney Groves (jr.) Linebackers: Cooper, St. John, Tyree Sutton (jr.) Secondary: Fallon, Brian Lindsey (jr.), McCoy, Patterson, Warner, Coreion Watts (so.) Special teams Kicker: Olivier Hakizimana (sr.) Punter: Hakizimana Returners: McCoy, Patterson, Warner Long snapper: Echols ablankenship@thisweeknews.com

To Succeed,

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— TONY DORSETT

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CITY L EAGUE-NORTH D IVISION

Columbus East

Smith trying to get Tigers back on track By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Moussa Kaba is expected to play on both the offensive and defensive lines for Northland, which has finished second in the CityNorth the last two seasons. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

Northland

Vikings look to reach potential By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

With one of the highest participation numbers among City League-North Division programs at more than 50, the Northland High School football team is expecting to field one of the most physical squads in the league. What could determine whether the Vikings can take a step forward after earning back-to-back league runner-up finishes is how quickly its skillposition players develop. Northland’s starters at quarterback, running back, wide

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receiver, tight end and at three offensive line spots were lost to graduation. “I like our size,” 13th-year coach Kevin Tooson said. “We have some linebacker/tight end types who are very physical. Skill-wise, we’re very young. “I think we’re still a work in progress. There are so many unknowns when you’re this inexperienced. They don’t understand why it has to be this hard right now for them to have success. A lot of what makes you successful is how you go about it, and right now we’re just trying to get them to have the right mentality.” With a cast that included 2015 graduates and first-team all-league selections Nateshawn Hargrove (RB), Michael Harris (OL) and Sherman Watson (WR/DB) as well as special mention all-district quarterback Nick Fischer a year ago, the Vikings overcame a 1-2 start to battle for the league title. They took a six-game winning streak into their regularseason finale against Beechcroft and lost 21-7 at home to finish 7-3 overall and 5-1 in the league. The Vikings settled for 10th in Division II, Region 5, two spots from the playoffs. Northland’s only playoff appearances came in 2010 and 2013. Independence and Whitehall, the two teams Northland beat in non-league play last year, return to the schedule Aug. 28 and Sept. 4, respectively. Eastmoor Academy is back on the schedule after last playing the Vikings in 2012. Hunting Valley University School,

At a glance *Mifflin ...........................W, 25-22 *Whetstone.....................W, 53-35 *Linden-McKinley .............W, 33-6 *Beechcroft .......................L, 21-7 *League contest INSIDE THE VIKINGS •Coach: Kevin Tooson, 13th season •Top players: Cortez Brooks (OL/DL), Elijah Burton (RB/LB), Jalen Jackson (RB/LB), Moussa Kaba (OL/DL), Dante Lewis (QB), Domonique Powers (WR/TE/LB), Demetrius Terry (TE/LB) and Mekko Wharton (RB/LB) •Key losses: Mohamed Diakite (WR/LB), Nick Fischer (QB/LB/P), Nateshawn Hargrove (RB/DB), Mike Harris (OL/DL), Michael Kyle (OL/DL), Chris Swann (DB),Abu Turay (RB/DB) and Sherman Watson (WR/DB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...............at Independence Sept. 4.......................vs. Whitehall Sept. 11 .....vs. Eastmoor Academy *Sept. 18 ..........vs. Columbus East *Sept. 25 .................vs. Centennial *Oct. 2 ............................at Mifflin *Oct. 9.....................vs. Whetstone *Oct. 16...........at Linden-McKinley Oct. 24 ....at Hunt. Valley University *Oct. 30....................at Beechcroft 2014 RESULTS (7-3 overall, 5-1 City-North) Independence .................W, 34-20 Marion-Franklin .................L, 28-8 Cincinnati Taft..................L, 35-19 Whitehall ........................W, 21-14 *Columbus East ................W, 49-6 *Centennial.....................W, 44-28

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a Division III program, rounds out the non-league schedule after going 4-6 a year ago. “We’re young, but we’re improving every day in practice,” senior Domonique Powers said.

OFFENSE

Expected to step in for Fischer, who passed for more than 700 yards and 11 touchdowns and rushed for more than 400 yards last season, is junior Dante Lewis, who missed last season with a shoulder injury. The Vikings are building their offense around senior linemen Cortez Brooks and Moussa Kaba. Both were honorable mention all-league last season. Senior Jolan Crawley, jun-

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During his time playing football for Ohio State under former coach John Cooper in the late 1990s, Eric Smith often found himself battling injuries while also experiencing some of the ups and downs associated with being a student. The career path he’s taken since that time also hasn’t always been easy. “When I graduated (from college), I didn’t jump right into (coaching),” Smith said. “I wish they’d given a course on real life.” After gaining coaching experience as an assistant at Ohio University, Lakeview Junior High in the Pickerington school district and Linden-McKinley High School, he spent the last three seasons serving under Reynoldsburg coach Buddy White. He was planning to be the offensive coordinator at Briggs this fall when he was offered an opportunity to be the coach at Columbus East. The 1995 Walnut Ridge graduate believes he’s ready for the challenge of taking over a program that went just 1-9 in coach Marcus Vaughn’s only season. The Tigers made their only playoff appearance in 1999 when they went 8-3. They were 35-95 under Mike White from 1998-2010 and 8-22 from 201113 under Lewis Carter. East was 5-5 in 2006, 2008 and 2012, but slipped to 2-8 in 2013. Smith hopes to invigorate a program that returns one of the state’s best track athletes in senior Asa Burke as well as several other key players. The Tigers’ only win last fall came over Dayton Jefferson, 50-16 in week nine. “I was over at Briggs and didn’t get this job until mid-June, but when they called me I said, ‘Why not?’ ” Smith said. “It’s tough when the population of the school makes it tough in itself, but my No. 1 goal is just to draw some attraction back to East. There is some rich tradition here and we’re trying to build it back. “There are many aspects to changing a culture. We had about 15 in the weight room but now we’re up to about 33.”

ior Taevon Ransom and freshman Jordan McCall also will provide size on the line. Powers will be a key target at wide receiver or tight end while senior Andy Breckenridge-Hall, who has been a key player on the boys basketball team, is expected to contribute at wide receiver. Several others are vying for time at wide receiver and running back. “We’ll do pretty much what we’ve been doing, which is a OFFENSE little bit of two-back sets because we’ve got some Count Burke among those tweener guys who are pretty who believe good things are starting to happen in the proathletic,” Tooson said. Other key losses were Har- gram. Burke, who was fourth in the grove (680 yards rushing, 10 100 meters and third in the 200 VIKINGS >> 60 in the Division II state track and

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At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28........................at Briggs Sept. 4 .............vs. Liberty Union Sept. 11 .........at Columbus West *Sept. 18 ................at Northland *Sept. 25 ...............at Whetstone *Oct. 2 .................vs. Beechcroft *Oct. 9...................at Centennial Oct. 16.....................vs. Norwalk *Oct. 23 ......................vs. Mifflin *Oct. 30 ......vs. Linden-McKinley 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-6 City-North) Hamilton Township .........L, 70-0 Briggs ..........................L, 54-30 Columbus West...............L, 41-0 *Mifflin ...........................L, 36-0 *Northland......................L, 49-6 *Whetstone...................L, 71-12 *Beechcroft ....................L, 65-0 *Centennial...................L, 62-24 Dayton Jefferson..........W, 50-16 *Linden-McKinley ...........L, 45-8 *League contest INSIDE THE TIGERS •Coach: Eric Smith, first season •Top players: Asa Burke (WR/DB), Andre Daniels (WR/DB), William Evans (WR/DB), Thomas Featherstone (WR/LB), Deltrin Kimbro (RB), Dwayne Logan (OL/DL), Juwan Smith (QB/DB) and Orpheus Twyman (OL/DL) •Key losses: Derrick Callender (OL/DL), Dwayne Fairley (TE/DL), Brandon Hurd (QB) and Chuck Ingram (RB)

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field meet last spring, figures to take on several roles to best utilize his athleticism. “I’m loving the team and loving the coaching,” Burke said. “The players are more engaged, and just the way we practice is better. We don’t let adversity get to us.” Burke was a second-team allleague selection last year who is complemented by senior wide receiver William Evans and junior receiver Thomas Featherstone, who also are returnees. Senior Juwaun Smith is at quarterback after being the backup last year. Seniors Orpheus Twyman and Dwayne Logan anchor a line that should get strong coaching from Smith, a former offensive lineman who coached the position at Reynoldsburg. Last season, the Tigers were shut out four times and scored 12 points or fewer three other times. “We do some spread with a

TIGERS >> 60 August 27, 2015

CITY L EAGUE-NORTH D IVISION

Whetstone

Braves are counting on better defense By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Marcus Benson is one of the key returnees for the Braves. A year ago, he rushed for 797 yards and eight touchdowns despite missing two games with an injury. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

The Whetstone High School football team has displayed a potent offense during the past several seasons. Fourth-year coach Don Poff is hoping the Bravesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; defense finally will catch up to their offense this year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have returned the majority of players who earned starts on defense last year. We were such a young ballclub,â&#x20AC;? said Poff, whose team opens Aug. 28 against Watkins Memorial. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a matter of fact, I think we only lost four or five seniors who started on either side of the ball.â&#x20AC;? The Braves, who had to forfeit an opening win over South, finished 2-8 overall and 2-4 in the City League-South Division last year. They averaged 27.7 points per game, excluding the forfeit, but surrendered an average of 39.6. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Those are big numbers, but I think just the growth and maturity will really make a difference defensively,â&#x20AC;? Poff said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When you play as many freshmen and sophomores as we were forced to do last year, they can have all the physical traits but the mental part of the game can be deficient. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So we took our lumps and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re bigger, stronger and faster. Plus, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re more prepared mentally to play on the varsity level. Those young guys learned last year, which they wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been able to do if they were on a j.v. or freshman team. We have decreased our reaction times to the pass and run signifi-

cantly and we want to be able to create more turnovers this year.â&#x20AC;? Whetstone dropped South, Upper Arlington and Ready from its non-league schedule and added Watkins Memorial, Buckeye Valley and the Columbus Crusaders. The Braves play their first three games on the road before playing host to the Crusaders on Sept. 18.

OFFENSE

The spread offense will be led by senior wide receiver Aidan Tuttle, junior quarterback Jack Staggs and junior running back Marcus Benson. Tuttle had 94 receptions for 1,082 yards and 11 touchdowns last season and was named second-team all-state and first-team all-district in Division II. He also was firstteam all-league and honorable mention ThisWeek Super 25. Staggs, who is in his third year as a starter, was 213-for373 passing for 2,286 yards and 20 touchdowns with 11 interceptions last year. Benson rushed for 797 yards and eight touchdowns and had 15 receptions for 209 yards and three touchdowns despite missing two games due to injury. Staggs was special mention all-district and Benson was honorable mention. Both were second-team all-league. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a seasoned quarterback and several strong receivers,â&#x20AC;? Poff said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tuttle was second-team all-state and worked even harder this offseason. Staggs and Benson both had tremendous sopho-

more seasons. Staggs is such a student of the game and is going to continue to grow. His progressions are much quicker than last year.â&#x20AC;? Other targets at Staggsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; disposal include Rozell Manley, Colin Lind and Cameran Bragg. Manley was honorable mention all-district last year. Freshman J.J. Brenham will see a lot of time in the backfield. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think Brenham is going to be a super stud,â&#x20AC;? Poff said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most athletic kid on the field and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a physical specimen you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t often find with freshmen. Once he matures mentally, look out.

BRAVES >> 60

FOOTBALL is

an incredible game. Sometimes itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s so

incredible, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

unbelievable.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TOM LANDRY

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Mifflin

Thornton out to invigorate Punchers By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Anthony Thornton will be in his first season as Mifflin High School football coach, but he might know as well as anyone the type of success the program is capable of achieving. A 1987 Brookhaven graduate, Thornton helped the Bearcats win the City League championship as a senior in 1986 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the same year the Punchers made their first of back-to-back playoff appearances. When he got a job as an assistant coach at his alma mater in 2003, Mifflin was coming off a playoff appearance the season before. That was the last time it made the postseason. Thornton became the head coach at Brookhaven in 2008 and served in that capacity for three seasons, posting a 24-10 record with two playoff appearAugust 27, 2015

ances. His last game at Brookhaven At a glance was a 22-20 loss in week 10 2015 SCHEDULE *Northland.......................L, 25-22 of the 2010 season to Mifflin, Aug. 28 .............at Columbus West *Linden-McKinley .............W, 12-0 which was in its first season Sept. 4........................at Westland *Whetstone.....................W, 34-14 coached by his former high Sept. 11 .......vs. Watkins Memorial *League contest school coach, Gregg Miller. *Sept. 18 ..................at Centennial INSIDE THE PUNCHERS *Sept. 25.................vs. Beechcroft â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Anthony Thornton, first seaâ&#x20AC;&#x153;This was an affluent com*Oct. 2......................vs. Northland son munity at one time and was *Oct. 9.............at Linden-McKinley â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Eric Anderson (OL/DL), actually a strong community,â&#x20AC;? *Oct. 16...................vs. Whetstone Bryan Battle (WR/DB), Jelani Bridges Thornton said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Marion*Oct. 23 .............at Columbus East (WR/DB), Jerome Dormeus Franklin and Whetstone have Oct. 30...............at Wooster Triway (RB/TE/LB), Jakyi Galloway (RB/K/P), those types of communities 2014 RESULTS Jeremiah Jackson (WR/DB), Melik now, but what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to (3-6 overall, 3-3 City-North) Scott (LB) and Lee Strickland (OL/DL) Licking Heights ................L, 41-10 â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Ty Allen (OL/DL), Lamdo is bridge that gap again. Westland ...........................L, 34-0 ont Bowman (TE/LB), Montrese FraSince (the 1980s), open enrollWatkins Memoria...............L, 33-0 zier (RB/LB), Michael Gause (OL/DL), ment has taken its toll. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re *Columbus East ................W, 36-0 Stanley Jackson (WR/DB), Makiyn trying to rebuild our bridge and *Centennial......................L, 42-27 Tate (RB/DB) and Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Anthony Williams what it means to be a Mifflin *Beechcroft .....................L, 33-16 (QB) Puncher.â&#x20AC;? Thornton, who took over at Furnace Mifflin in February, served as Tune-Up an assistant at Ohio Dominican in 2011. He then assisted Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 under Miller at Mifflin in 2012, (614) 784-0800 spent 2013 at Centennial and See our ad on pg. 91 last season was an assistant at Walnut Ridge. The Punchers went 28-21 in including 8-2 in 2011. Mifflin 5-5 in 2013 and 3-6 a year ago. five seasons under Miller, went 7-3 in 2012 before going Miller retired from coach-

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ing in the offseason, and nearly all of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s key players are gone. One source of continuity is Stanley Jackson, a 2015 graduate who is playing for Ashland University and is serving as a wide receivers coach. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The environment and the culture had to change around here,â&#x20AC;? Thornton said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The school is at capacity, and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a waiting list for kids to get in. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a lot of great support thus far from the boosters and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to get some alumni involved.â&#x20AC;?

OFFENSE

Thornton, who was a quarterback and went on to play at Ohio University after graduating from Brookhaven, is planning to run multiple formations, including some that include the pistol. Sophomore Daveon Logan is expected to be the quarter-

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PUNCHERS >> 60 Page 59

BRAVES FROM >> 59

We’ve just got great skill players offensively.” Poff said the line was beginning to take shape.

DEFENSE

Durrell Nicks and Davion Proctor are expected to anchor the defense in front of a solid corps of returning linebackers that includes Miles Poff, Tyrec Moore and T.J. Johnson. Poff is the coach’s son. “(Miles) has a great football IQ and finds the ball well,” coach Poff said. “Moore is a ferocious tackler and Johnson has shown consistency. We’ve got playmakers in (the secondary), too, with Ibrahim Sesay, Adreon Barrett and Noah Minor returning. Sesay led the team in interceptions and was (honorable mention) all-district.” Junior Jerrimi Williams has earned a starting spot in the secondary in his first season in the program.

CITY L EAGUE -N ORTH D IVISION

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28..........at Watkins Memorial Sept. 4 ...............at Buckeye Valley Sept. 11......................at Whitehall Sept. 18 ...vs. Columbus Crusaders *Sept. 25 ..........................vs. East *Oct. 2.............at Linden-McKinley *Oct. 9 .......................at Northland *Oct. 16...........................at Mifflin *Oct. 23 ..................vs. Beechcroft *Oct. 30...................vs. Centennial 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 2-4 City-North) South.......................L, 1-0 (forfeit) Upper Arlington..................L, 51-9 Whitehall .........................L, 35-20 *Beechcroft .......................L, 48-8 Ready..............................L, 56-43

*East ..............................W, 71-12 *Linden-McKinley............W, 28-14 *Northland.......................L, 53-35 *Mifflin ............................L, 34-14 *Centennial......................L, 53-21 *League contest INSIDE THE BRAVES •Coach: Don Poff, fourth season •Top players: Marcus Benson (RB), J.J. Brenham (RB), Colin Lind (TE/WR), Rozell Manley (WR),Tyrec Moore (LB), Durrell Nicks (DL), Miles Poff (LB), Jack Staggs (QB), Ibrahim Sesay (DB) and Aidan Tuttle (WR) •Key losses: Zack Arnold (FB), Justus Barnett (LB), Ryan Burnett (LB), Nick Entingh (OL/DL), Jeremy Polk (OT) and Malik Posley (OT)

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Receivers: *Colin Lind (sr.), *Rozell Manley (jr.), *Aidan Tuttle (sr.), Cameran Bragg (so.) Linemen: *Jacob Click (jr.), *Lawrence Dean (jr.), *Justin McDaniel (jr.), *Durrell Nicks (jr.), *Davion Proctor (so.), THE LINEUP Logan Foster (jr.), Rashawn Offense Ruby (sr.) Quarterback: *Jack Staggs Defense (jr.) Linemen: *Dean, *Lincoln Running backs: *Marcus Mullins (so.), *Proctor, Nicks Benson (jr.), *J.J. Brenham Linebackers: *T.J. John(fr.) son (so.), *Tyrec Moore (sr.),

See our ad on pg. 91 *Miles Poff (jr.) Secondary: *Adreon Barrett (jr.), *Noah Minor (sr.), *Ibrahim Sesay (so.), *Jerrimi Williams (jr.) Special teams Kicker : *Luke GreenLauber (sr.) Punter: *Green-Lauber Returners: *Benson, *Brenham, *Williams Long snapper: *Poff (*Denotes projected starter) bemerine@thisweeknews.com

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Andrew Doll (jr., 5-10, 220) Linebackers: *Ed Warinner (so., 6-0, 200), Kyle Akerman (jr., 5-9, 170), Chase Smith (jr., 6-0, 200), Joe Paolo (sr., 5-11,

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FROM >> 59

back, with junior Peter Randolph also being an option. Randolph could see action at a variety of positions, including running back. They will replace D’Anthony Williams, who passed for 1,057 yards and was honorable mention all-district last year as a junior but is not back with the team. Senior Melik Scott is the top returnee after making first-team all-City League-North Division and special mention alldistrict on defense. He should see time at running back, but battled a knee injury during the preseason. Senior Jelani Bridges, who is a transfer from Eastmoor Academy, and sophomore Jeremiah Jackson, who is Stanley Jackson’s brother, are expected to lead the receiving corps. “It’s been really fun, and this team is really cool,” Bridges said. “All of the players have really welcomed me to the team. When I came over I didn’t want to step on any toes, but they’ve made me feel like a part of the team. (Our offense) is really innovative, up tempo, exciting and fun.” In addition to replacing Stanley Jackson, who had 36 catches and was second-team all-district last year, the Punchers lost honorable mention alldistrict running back Makiyn Tate (705 yards rushing, 11 touchdowns) and first-team allleague and all-district lineman Mike Gause to graduation.

Special teams 205) Kicker: Lando, A.J. Smith Secondary: *Fowler, *White, Daniel Blaine (sr., 5- (jr., 6-3, 178) Punter: White, Fowler 8, 120), Chase Fetherolf (jr., DEFENSE 5-9, 145), Grant Uehlein (sr., (*Denotes projected starter) Bridges, Jeremiah Jackson, 6-0, 175), Collin Nappi (sr., 5Randolph, junior Bryan Battle 9, 165) sports@thisweeknews.com and senior Brian Johnson are members of a secondary that could be the strength of the defense.

FOOTBALL TIGERS IS LIKE LIFE —

PUNCHERS

FROM >> 58

THE LINEUP

Offense little outside-inside zone,” Smith Quarterback: *Juwaun Smith said. “We’ll do mostly quick (sr., 5-11, 170) passes to utilize the speed we Running backs: *Deltrin have and open up the defense. Kimbro (sr.) Burke is a track guy who runs Receivers: *William Evans 10.6 (in the 100).” (sr., 5-10, 185), *Andre Daniels (sr.), *Thomas Featherstone DEFENSE (jr.), Shahqim Edwards (so.) Twyman was second-team H-back: *Asa Burke (sr, 5all-league last season as a defen- 9, 155), sive lineman and again should Linemen: *Dwayne Logan lead the way on that side of the (sr., 6-3, 315), *Orpheus ball. Twyman (sr., 6-4, 240), *Raeon In addition to Logan and junior Raeon Arrington, who each Arrington (jr., 5-11, 325) Defense weigh more than 300 pounds, Linemen: *Logan, the Tigers are putting athletic *Twyman, *Arrington, *Aaron sophomore Aaron Cordell on Cordell (so., 6-0, 175) the line. Linebackers: Ric’Shawn Joining Featherstone at linebacker should be senior Huge (sr.), Tyus Murray (sr.,) A’Kesch Ross, a returning *A’Kesch Ross (sr., 5-10, 195), starter, and senior Deltrin Kim- *Kimbro, *Featherstone Secondary: *Burke, *Daniels, bro. Burke, Smith and Evans all are back in the secondary. *Evans, *Smith Special teams Kicker: *Ross SPECIAL TEAMS Punter: *Evans The Tigers are hoping the Returners: *Burke, *Evans athleticism of Burke and Evans Long snapper: *Kevin Elliott also will pay off in the return (so.) game. (*Denotes projected starter) Evans also is expected to do the punting, while Ross returns as the kicker. julrey@thisweeknews.com

Jeremiah Jackson will start at receiver and in the secondary as well as return kicks. LAURIE STEVENSON/THISWEEKSPORTS

Scott is the top returning linebacker and junior Lee Strickland, a two-way lineman who was second-team allleague on defense, will be at nose tackle. Stanley Jackson (DB) and Gause (DL) were joined in the 2015 senior class by Lamont Bowman (LB), who was second-team all-league.

SPECIAL TEAMS

While sophomore Jakyi Galloway is expected to be the kicker, he also battled during the preseason for the punting job with freshman Aman Thornton, who is the coach’s son, and junior Zhaques Streeter.

THE LINEUP

Receivers: *Jelani Bridges (sr.), Bryan Battle (jr., 6-3, 180), *Jeremiah Jackson (so., 6-0, 185) Tight end: *Dormeus Linemen: *Eric Anderson (sr.), *Valdez Clemens (jr.), *DeSean Scales (jr.), *Lee Strickland (jr., 6-0, 285), *Aikeen Wyche (jr.) Defense Linemen: *Anderson, *Clemens, *Scales, *Strickland Linebackers: *Dormeus, *Scott, Devyn Whitlow (jr., 61, 160) Secondary: *Battle, *Bridges, *Brian Johnson (sr., 6-2, 200), *Randolph, *Jackson Special teams Kicker: *Galloway Punter: Galloway, Zhaques Streeter (jr.), Aman Thornton (fr.) Returners: Bridges, Jackson Long snapper: Randolph (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: Peter Randolph (jr., 5-10, 175), *Daveon Logan (so. 5-11, 175) Running backs: Jerome Dormeus (sr.), *Melik Scott (sr., 5-9, 220), Randolph, julrey@thisweeknews.com *Jakyi Galloway (so.)

VIKINGS FROM >> 58

touchdowns), Watson (6 touchdowns) and offensive lineman Michael Kyle. Hargrove and Kyle are playing for Notre Dame College and Watson is at Urbana.

DEFENSE

Brooks, Kaba and Powers also will play key roles on defense along with senior Mekko Wharton. Powers, who was first-team all-league and second-team alldistrict on the line a year ago, should be at linebacker this fall with Wharton, who was second-team all-league. McCall should have an immediate impact on the line, while seniors Rob Price Jr. and Demetrius Terry will contribute to a linebacking corps that also includes senior Jalen Jackson. The biggest losses to graduation were Chris Swann, Abu Turay and Watson. All were key players in the secondary. Swann joined Watson on the all-league first-team and also

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joins him at Urbana. Turay 230), Quentin Jones (jr.) Linemen: *Cortez Brooks made second-team all-league. (sr., 5-11, 200), *Jolan Crawley (sr., 5-11, 250), *Moussa SPECIAL TEAMS Tooson has recruited a pair Kaba (sr., 5-11, 230), Taevon of soccer players, senior Ben- Ransom (jr., 5-7, 215), jamin Akah and sophomore Kwabena Adade (so.), Jordan Franklin Funez, to be his punter McCall (fr., 5-8, 260) Defense and kicker, respectively. Linemen: *Brooks, *Kaba, Jesus Bustos was a secondteam all-league selection at *Darius Dean (jr., 6-4, 285), kicker who was lost to gradu- Jordan Johnson (jr., 5-10, 240), *McCall ation. Linebackers: Jackson, *Rob THE LINEUP Price Jr. (sr.), *Powers, *Terry, Offense Quarterbacks: *Dante Lewis Wharton, Burton, Dione (sr., 6-1, 195), Armani Turner Brown-Morton (jr.) Secondary: *Justin Florexil (so.) Running backs: *Jalen Jack- (sr.), *Townsend, *Chad King son (sr., 6-1, 190), Mekko (jr.), *Mark Lee Jr. (fr.) Special teams Wharton (sr.), Albert Adusi Kicker: *Franklin Funez (jr., 5-4, 130), Elijah Burton (so.) (jr.) Punter: *Benjamin Akah (sr., Receivers: Andy Breckenridge-Hall (sr.) *Domonique 5-9, 230) Returners: *Adusi, *Burton, Powers (sr., 6-0, 190), Isaiah Townsend (sr.), De’Shawn Jef- *Cole Long snapper: To be deterfery (jr.), Ricardo Robinson (jr.), DeShawn Cole (so.), mined (*Denotes projected starter) Daythan Jones (so.) Tight ends: Powers, *Demetrius Terry (sr., 6-0, julrey@thisweeknews.com August 27, 2015

CITY LEAGUE-SOUTH DIVISION

Walnut Ridge

Scots seeking faster start, playoff berth By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Malik Harrison likely will start at quarterback for Walnut Ridge, although heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expected to be a wide receiver in college. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We like to get football players like him who are willing to play offense, defense or pretty much anything we want,â&#x20AC;? coach Byron Mattox said. ERIC ALBRECHT/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Spotlight

Harrison intriguing to colleges

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Walnut Ridge High School senior Malik Harrison has been enjoying quite a ride the last several months. Because of his skills on the basketball court, heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s had the opportunity to travel as far away as Europe as well as to the nearby Schottenstein Center for events heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll never forget. His combination of speed and size â&#x20AC;&#x201C; heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been clocked at 4.4 seconds in the 40 yards and stands 6-foot-5, 215 pounds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; has provided him his pick of numerous football scholarship offers. About the only things left to be decided are exactly how heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be used by the Scots on the field this season and how heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll eventually fit in once he gets to college. Those are only minor issues, according to coach Byron Mattox, because of the character Harrison has exhibited. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got a great attitude and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a good student who works hard for us,â&#x20AC;? Mattox said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kind of an unassuming kid who gets along well with his teammates and is real coachable. We like to get football players like him who are willing to play offense, defense or pretty much anything we want.â&#x20AC;? That versatility is just one of the traits that has helped him earn 12 offers from FBS schools and it also makes him the most intriguing player in the City League-South DiviAugust 27, 2015

Inside the division Briggs at South 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Marion-Franklin at West Marion-Franklin 7-0 10-2 Walnut Ridge at Eastmoor Walnut Ridge 6-1 6-4 Oct. 9 Eastmoor 5-2 8-2 Briggs at Walnut Ridge Independence 4-3 4-6 Eastmoor at Marion-Franklin West 3-4 5-5 South at Africentric Briggs 2-5 4-6 West at Independence South 1-6 2-8 Oct. 16 Africentric 0-7 1-9 Africentric at Walnut Ridge Independence at Eastmoor 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Marion-Franklin at Briggs Sept. 18 South at West Africentric at West Oct. 23 Briggs at Eastmoor Briggs at Africentric South at Independence Eastmoor at West Walnut Ridge at Marion-Franklin Independence at Marion-Franklin Sept. 25 Walnut Ridge at South Eastmoor at South Oct. 30 Independence at Briggs Africentric at Eastmoor Marion-Franklin at Africentric Independence at Walnut Ridge West at Walnut Ridge Marion-Franklin at South Oct. 2 Africentric at Independence West at Briggs

sion heading into the season. How exactly will the Scots use him? The most likely answer is quarterback, with a dash of safety and linebacker thrown in. In some systems heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be the perfect wide receiver, which is the position he could play once he gets to college. Regardless, his hopes are to make an impact on every play from scrimmage and lead the Scots to the playoffs for the first time since 2009. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My sophomore year I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really play defense, but now Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m playing on both sides of the ball,â&#x20AC;? Harrison said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really have a preference. I just want to be on the field.â&#x20AC;? He also doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind being

inside of a gym or on a track for that matter. Last winter for the Scotsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; boys basketball team, Harrison averaged 14 points and made second-team all-district as his team finished 21-6 and made its first state-tournament appearance since 1971. He then competed for the track team in the spring in the long jump and sprinting events. During the spring of his sophomore year in 2014, Harrison traveled with Team Ohioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s U-17 basketball team that finished runner-up in the APL Junior International World Championships in Italy. Although his love for basketball and the combination of his size and ball-handling abilities eventually could have

attracted the attention of college basketball programs, the interest he has received from college football recruiters never has wavered. He began picking up offers before his junior season began and has been offered by seven power-five conference programs, including Wisconsin and Michigan State among five Big Ten offers. Although he doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have an offer from Ohio State, he worked out at the Buckeyesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Friday Night Lights camp over the summer and could end up with an offer at some point. Wisconsin could have the inside track because two former Walnut Ridge standouts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2013 graduate Rob Wheelwright and 2011 graduate Austin Traylor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; already play for the Badgers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m still looking at (each of the colleges) the same,â&#x20AC;? Harrison said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to be able to play at the next level and hopefully Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do well enough to make it to the NFL. Most of them are talking to me about being an athlete.â&#x20AC;? This fall, Harrison will attempt to lift the hopes of a Walnut Ridge team that has gone a combined 20-10 over the last three seasons but with no playoff appearances. Last fall, he rushed for 1,087 yards and 15 touchdowns on 123 carries and completed 74 of 146 passes with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions while earning special mention

HARRISON >> 66

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Since its last playoff appearance in 2009, the Walnut Ridge High School football team has seen its fortunes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; more often than not â&#x20AC;&#x201C; decided in the first half of the season. The Scots have produced winning records in all but two seasons (2006 and 2011) under coach Byron Mattox, who begins his 10th year against visiting Watterson on Friday, Aug. 28. However, losses to nonconference opponents and 10-time City League-South champion Marion-Franklin have made it challenging to end the postseason drought. Walnut Ridge opened last season with setbacks to Watterson, Chillicothe and Beechcroft, a team that lost to Steubenville 29-21 in a Division IV regional final. The Scots only league loss came to Marion-Franklin (27-6). While there are a number of starters to replace, Mattox isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ready to write off his teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chances to compete for a playoff berth and a league championship. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If we stay healthy, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be a tough team to match up against,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to beat the champion and we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been able to do that. The guys we have this year bring a lot of athleticism and a lot of speed.â&#x20AC;? Walnut Ridge has twice finished with eight victories under Mattox, going 8-3 in 2009 when it reached the Division II playoff field and 8-2 in 2010. The Scots have finished no worse than third in the CitySouth in all but Mattoxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first season. They shared a league championship with Eastmoor Academy and Marion-Franklin in 2009. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve really been fortunate to have good leadership and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got guys who can go out there and make plays,â&#x20AC;? Mattox said.

OFFENSE

The Scots return just three starters on offense, but they have an experienced quarterback in senior Malik Harrison, who rushed for 1,087 yards and 15 touchdowns and threw for 794 yards and seven touchdowns last season Harrison, who is getting looks from a number of Big Ten schools, including Ohio State, was first-team all-league and special mention all-district.

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .................vs. Watterson Sept. 4 ...................at Grove City Sept. 11.................vs. Lancaster *Sept. 18 .......at Marion-Franklin *Sept. 25.......................vs. West *Oct. 2 ......at Eastmoor Academy *Oct. 9 ........................vs. Briggs *Oct. 16.................vs. Africentric *Oct. 23 ........................at South *Oct. 30...........vs. Independence 2014 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 6-1 in City-South) Watterson.......................L, 16-6 Chillicothe.....................L, 28-14 Beechcroft....................L, 18-14 *South .........................W, 50-14 *Marion-Franklin.............L, 27-6 *West ............................W, 14-6 *Eastmoor Academy.....W, 33-14 *Briggs ..........................W, 27-0 *Africentric ....................W, 45-0 *Independence.............W, 61-26 *League contest INSIDE THE SCOTS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Byron Mattox, 10th season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Michael Ayers (DB), Kameron Brown (OL/DL), William Harris (OL/DL), Malik Harrison (QB/DB), Quoran Knights (RB/LB), Darius Mclean (WR/DB), William Stringer (RB), Justin Vance (LB), Tarik Wright (TE/DL), Kalib Younger (WR) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Xzavier Files (OL/DL), Jaisean Johnson (RB/WR), Jaylen Spots (LB), Dezjuan Starks (OL/DL)

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CITY L EAGUE-SOUTH D IVISION

Marion-Franklin

Red Devils remain favorite in league By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM When Brian Haffele took over as coach of the MarionFranklin High School football team more than a decade ago, he counted more than 100 players on his roster. Times have been changing for the Red Devils. “The biggest challenge is that our numbers have been down,” said Haffele, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Westerville North. “That’s the reason why we have so many guys going both ways. That makes it a little more challenging in how you address (your personnel). The school population also has dropped to right around 600 kids.” Since the last time the Ohio High School Athletic Association set its football divisions based on enrollment numbers in May 2013, Marion-Franklin’s boys enrollment dropped by 36. This year, the traditional playoff contender will move from Division IV, Region 13, to Division III, Region 9. With a roster of 55-60 players in preseason camp, Haffele has put a greater emphasis on conditioning, as the Red Devils could have as many as a dozen two-way players. Still, the numbers game hasn’t lowered expectations for a program that has won 11 consecutive City League-South Division championships and has an equal number of playoff appearances. A year ago, Marion-Franklin went 7-0 in the league before losing 21-14 to Steubenville in a Division IV regional semifinal to finish 10-2. That playoff loss has served

At a glance *Eastmoor Academy..........W, 21-7 *Briggs .............................W, 34-8 *South ..............................W, 47-8 PLAYOFFS Amanda-Clearcreek ........W, 20-15 Steubenville.....................L, 21-14 *League contest INSIDE THE RED DEVILS •Coach: Brian Haffele, 12th season •Top players: Travis Geiger (OL/DL), Markel Drake (WR/DB),Anthony Hodnett (QB), Derrione Leeper (RB/LB), Allen Michael-Roberts (WR/DB), Terrance Sealey (WR/DB), Jamari Walker (OL/LB/DL) •Key losses: Justin Tyler (QB), Anthony McKee Jr. (DB), Alijahwon Tarvin (LB), David Wellborne (RB/LB), Dashawn Nelms (DB)

2015 RESULTS Aug. 28 ...........at Westerville North Sept. 4 .....................at Beechcroft Sept. 10 .........................at Hartley *Sept. 18 .............vs. Walnut Ridge *Sept. 25...................at Africentric *Oct. 2...............................at West *Oct. 9........vs. Eastmoor Academy *Oct. 16 ..........................at Briggs *Oct. 23 .............vs. Independence *Oct. 30 ...........................at South 2014 RESULTS (10-2 overall, 7-0 City-South) Westerville North.............W, 27-14 Northland .........................W, 28-8 Hartley ............................L, 21-20 *Independence..................W, 28-6 *Walnut Ridge...................W, 27-6 *Africentric .......................W, 52-0 *West ...............................W, 32-7

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as a lesson in the offseason, as the Red Devils were plagued by mistakes. A 46-yard touchdown run was called back because of a holding penalty and Steubenville intercepted passes inside its own 10-yard line. “We’ve put a big emphasis on that this summer in trying to eliminate those kinds of mistakes,” said Haffele, whose teams have reached the state semifinals three of the previous five seasons. “But our kids are hungry and they’re ready to compete for another title.”

that averaged 29 points per game, it must replace a dualthreat quarterback in 2015 graduate Justin Tyler, Tyler, who was special mention all-district and second-team all-league, threw for nearly 900 yards and 10 touchdowns and rushed for more than 700 yards and eight touchdowns. Senior Anthony Hodnett will take over for Tyler, and he will get support senior running back Derrione Leeper (85 carries, 562 yards, 6 TDs) and senior receivers Allen Michael-Roberts (16 catches, 182 yards) and TerOFFENSE rance Sealey, both returning Although Marion-Franklin starters. Last year’s top receiver, returns five starters to an offense

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Derrione Leeper rushed for 562 yards and six touchdowns a year ago as the Red Devils finished 10-2 overall. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

Michael Winfrey, was among the graduates after finishing with 22 catches for 321 yards and 6 touchdowns. On the line, the Red Devils return senior Jamari Walker (second-team all-district, firstteam all-league) and sophomore Travis Geiger. “We’re really stressing the importance of keeping the intensity up as a unit,” Walker said. “We’ve got to get some of these younger guys motivated and we need our line to come together.”

DEFENSE

There is much to replace on a defensive unit that held opponents to 10 points per game with the likes of first-team all-district linebackers Alijahwon Tarvin and David Wellborne and defensive backs Anthony McKee Jr., and Dashawn Nelms. Tarvin was the team’s emotional leader for three seasons. “We need to see who our emotional guys are going to be this season,” Haffele said. “I think our intensity has been higher and it has to be because we know every time we step on the field we’re going to get everybody’s best shot.” There are three returning starters in Walker, Leeper (linebacker) and senior Markel Drake (defensive back). The challenge has been trying to find the right mix. “Leeper is moving from the secondary and we’re trying to see if Walker can convert to linebacker,” Haffele said. “We might have him playing down, but that’s what the summer is for, to put the jigsaw puzzle together.”

Markel Drake, a senior defensive back, is one of three returning starters on that side of the ball. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

Hodnett (sr., 6-1, 220), Justin King (sr., 5-9, 180) Running backs: *Derrione Leeper (sr., 5-11, 220), *King Receivers: *Allen MichaelRoberts (sr., 6-0, 175), *Terrance Sealey (sr., 5-10, 175), Derrick Cole (sr., 6-3, 180), Markel Drake (sr., 5-9, 185), Tasharon Gaines (sr., 6-1, 170), Zaire Porter (so., 6-4, 200), Isaiah Demons (jr., 5-10, 175), Michael Hogan (jr., 6-0, 185) Linemen: *Jamari Walker (sr., 6-2, 275), *Landon Saulsberry (sr., 6-0, 260), *Cortland THE LINEUP James (so., 6-0, 240), *Travis Offense Geiger (so., 6-5, 305), DonoQuarterbacks: *Anthony van Hayes Jr., (jr., 6-3, 255),

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Richard Gray (sr., 6-2, 305), Torrian Hendricks (jr., 6-2, 300) Defense Linemen: *Saulsberry, *Mychal Keys (so., 6-5, 215), *Geiger, *Walker Linebackers: *Brendan Everett (jr., 5-11, 185), *Leeper, Coby Calhoun (jr., 6-1, 250), Walker Secondary: *MichaelRoberts, *Sealey, *Drake, *King, El Usir (sr., 6-2, 185) Special teams Kicker and punter: *Edgar Lucero (jr., 5-10, 200) Long snapper: *Hodnett sports@thisweeknews.com

August 27, 2015

CITY L EAGUE-SOUTH D IVISION

Independence

Kuipers looks to repeat 2,000-yard season By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Ronnie Kuipers of the Independence High School football team doesn’t remember too much about the last game of the 2014 season. The senior running back was taken to the hospital to be treated for a concussion after taking a hard hit in the second half of a 61-26 loss to Walnut Ridge. He was shocked when he opened the newspaper the next morning. “I didn’t know how many yards I had in that game, so I was surprised to see that I had like 190, and that game is what got me to 2,000,” said Kuipers, whose team opens against visiting Northland on Aug. 28. The Division III Central District Offensive Player of the Year accumulated 2,002 yards – to be exact – on 185 carries with 19 touchdowns. Independence traditionally has produced one of the area’s leading rushers with the likes of Erik Haw, Jacob Ramsey, Luther Nicholas, Brandon Morton and Devin Clodfelter. Kuipers has proven he belongs among them. As a sophomore, he rushed for 751 yards and six TDs as four players combined for 4,100 yards rushing in 2013.

Coach Maurice Douglas, who begins his sixth season, expects more of the same from Kuipers. “Ronnie is probably the seventh or eighth back here to rush for 2,000 yards, but we’ve got a couple more guys who could be dangerous as well,” said Douglas, whose 76ers went 4-6 overall and 4-3 in the City-South a year ago. That group includes seniors Kevon Jones (45 carries, 356 yards, 2 TDs), second-team all-league, and Santino Peake (13 carries, 76 yards) and junior Malik Adams (17 carries, 217 yards, TD). But Kuipers, a 100 meters champion in track, has the breakaway speed. “Usually people just say I’m explosive,” he said. “As soon as I get the ball and find the hole, I’m gone. Just like a track meet.”

OFFENSE

Junior Christian Earnest is the top returnee on the line, where he was first-team allleague and first-team all-district. There will many new faces alongside him, however, with senior Jaquel Clardy, juniors Jaden Cox and D’Andre Hannon and sophomore Chad Douglas expected to start,

At a glance *Briggs...........................W, 52-33 *Africentric .......................W, 52-6 *West .............................W, 52-14 *Eastmoor Academy ........L, 50-32 *Walnut Ridge .................L, 61-26 *League contest INSIDE THE 76ers •Coach: Maurice Douglas, sixth season •Top players: Christian Earnest (OL/DL), Ronnie Kuipers (RB/DB), Kevon Jones (RB), Kaavon Parker (WR/DB), Santino Peake (FB/DL), Jalen Rodriguez (QB), De’Zahn Townsend (WR/P), •Key losses: Dwayne Angel (OL/DL), Sidney Perry (TE/LB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ....................vs. Northland Sept. 4......vs. Pickerington Central Sept. 11 ..........at Linden-Mckinley *Sept. 18........................vs. South *Sept. 25 ........................at Briggs *Oct. 2 .....................vs. Africentric *Oct. 9 .............................vs. West *Oct. 16.......at Eastmoor Academy *Oct. 23............at Marion-Franklin *Oct. 30................at Walnut Ridge 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 4-3 City-South) Northland ........................L, 34-20 Hamilton Badin................L, 55-18 Westerville Central...........L, 49-20 *Marion-Franklin ...............L, 28-6 *South..............................W, 46-6

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according to coach Douglas. At quarterback, senior Jalin Rodriguez returns after completing 17 of 33 passes for 315 yards and three touchdowns. “I think sometimes we throw it a little better than people give us credit,” Douglas said. “The running game gets most of the spotlight because we do it very well, but we can pass if we need to do so.”

See our ad on pg. 91 Senior Kaavon Parker finished with 12 receptions for 292 yards and three touchdowns a year ago.

DEFENSE

Independence will be without graduate Sidney Perry, who finished with a team-best 74 tackles at middle linebacker while earning second-team allleague honors.

Still, the 4-3 defense will feature plenty of experience that includes a strong line with returning starters Earnest, Clardy and Peake. In the secondary, Parker had four interceptions and was first-team all-district and firstteam all-league. “Last year, we didn’t have a lot of experience,” Douglas said of his defense, which allowed 33.6 points per game. “This year, we’re expecting them to play up to that experience level. They’re fast and that’s going to be the tone for this team.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jalin sports@thisweeknews.com Rodriguez (sr., 5-11, 190), De’Zhan Townsend (jr., 5-8, 155) Running backs: *Ronnie Kuipers (sr., 5-11, 170), Kevon Jones (sr., 5-9, 160), Santino Peake (sr., 5-9, 225), Malik something Adams (jr., 5-9, 175) Receivers: *Kaavon Parker to hold on to, (sr., 5-10, 165), *Townsend, something Jeremiah Jackson (so., 5-8, to motivate you, 160), Asaan Dukes (jr., 5-7, something 150) to inspire you. Tight end: *Jayvon Brown (sr. 5-10, 180) — TONY DORSETT Linemen: *Christian Earnest (jr., 6-0, 240), *Jayden Cox (jr., 5-10, 190),

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Briggs

Coach will unleash offense in second year

By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM When Larry Willoughby was hired as Briggs High School football coach in July 2014, he admits he didn’t have much time to evaluate the roster. So the Bruins relied on an old-school wing-T offense with two running backs, including 2015 graduate Maleik Gore, who was named first-team alldistrict and all-league as Briggs finished 4-6 overall and 2-5 in the City League-South Division. Willoughby, whose team plays host to East in its opener Aug. 28, intends to make use of the Bruins’ skilled athletes in a much different way in his second season. “We are exclusively in the pistol with three wide receivers,” he said. “I feel like we have five guys who can take it to the house. This time last year, I would say that we had one guy (Gore).” The Bruins, who won three of their first four games last season before losing five of their final six, return eight starters on both sides of the ball. All of the returning starters are seniors. “These guys got their brains beat in as freshmen and now August 27, 2015

At a glance *Independence ................L, 52-33 *South ............................W, 51-20 *Walnut Ridge....................L, 27-0 *Marion-Franklin................L, 34-8 *West ..............................L, 17-14 *League contest INSIDE THE BRUINS •Coach: Larry Willoughby, second season •Top players: Isaiah Caldwell (WR/DB), Mason Cullen (OL/LB), (RB/DB), Conner Holt (RB/LB), Tavin Jordan (OL/DL), Cam Marshall (WR/DB), Tyson Miles (QB/DB), Tyler Poeschel (OL/DL) and Michael Robinson (OL/DL) •Key losses: Maleik Gore (RB) and Bobby Walker (OL/DL)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.............................vs. East Sept. 4...........................vs. Ready Sept. 11.........................vs. Briggs *Sept. 18 .....at Eastmoor Academy *Sept. 25............vs. Independence *Oct. 2 .............................at South *Oct. 9 ..................at Walnut Ridge *Oct. 16...........vs. Marion-Franklin *Oct. 23.....................at Africentric *Oct. 30 ...........................vs. West 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 2-5 City-South) Watkins Memorial..............L, 27-6 East................................W, 54-30 Franklin Heights..............W, 49-39 *Africentric .....................W, 56-36 *Eastmoor .........................L, 48-0

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they’re 17- and 18-year-old men,” Willoughby said. “They are faster and we think we’ve got guys who can make plays in space.” Willoughby is working to turn around a program that went 2-18 under his predecessor, former Ohio State running back Butler By’not’e, who had a brief NFL career as a defensive back.

See our ad on pg. 91 The Bruins last had a winning season in 2010 when they went 6-4 under Derek Katris, who now coaches Marion Elgin. Willoughby has experience directing a winning program. During his seven-year tenure as coach at Heath from 19942000, he compiled a 41-29 record and won two MSL-Cardinal championships.

“With 22 upperclassmen, our expectations are high and they should be,” he said. “But there are teams out there that we have to beat, and haven’t beaten, if we’re going to be legit.”

OFFENSE

Leading the eight returning starters on an offense that averaged 26.3 points per game a year ago is senior quarterback Tyson Miles, who Willoughby says is likely the team’s most accomplished rusher. The pistol formation moves Miles to the shotgun so he can read coverages better. Also back is senior running back Conner Holt as well as four returning starters up front in seniors Tyler Poeschel, Michael Robinson, Mason Cullen and Shane Ross. Poeschel was first-team allleague last year and Robinson made second team. “These guys are legitimate offensive linemen,” Willoughby said. “Poeschel was the city’s heavyweight champion (in wrestling) and Robinson is what you want in an offensive lineman. He’s big (6-foot-3, 285 pounds) and he runs well. These are smart, strong kids who have been playing side-by-side for a while.”

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*Chad Douglas (so., 6-0, 270), D’Andre Hannon (jr., 5-11, 190), *Jaquel Clardy (sr., 60, 215) Defense Linemen: *Earnest, *Clardy, *Peake, *Daequan Grady-Gadio (sr., 6-0, 215), Douglas Linebackers: *Jayvon Brown (sr., 5-10, 190), *Cox, *Adams Secondary: *Parker, *Jackson, *Eu’rell Turnage (jr., 510,160), *B.J. Smith (sr., 510, 175), Dukes, Kuipers Special teams Kicker and punter: *Townsend (*Denotes projected starter)

Briggs will feature a large group of receivers that includes two returning starters in seniors Cam Marshall and Kapone Richardson. Last season, Richardson returned three kickoffs for touchdowns.

DEFENSE

The defensive unit that returns eight starters has gone from a 4-3 base formation to a 3-4 with the hope of eliminating the big play. “We gave up way too many,” Willoughby said. “Either we weren’t in the right place or we were outmatched. We really struggled to find a scheme that fit us. We had to get a little creative and now I think we’re running what fits our personnel.” The Bruins will be most experienced up front, where ends Cullen and Robinson return as starters with junior Tavin Jordan. Holt has moved from safety to linebacker. Juniors Corey Spencer and Zach Jenkins also are expected to start at linebacker. Returning to the secondary are Richardson, Caldwell and senior Mitts Distelhorst. Miles started as a defensive back last season, but sophomore Ter-

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CITY L EAGUE-SOUTH D IVISION

Eastmoor Academy

Warriors seek return to playoffs By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Entering the final week of the regular season a year ago, the Eastmoor Academy football team appeared to be headed to the playoffs for the first time since 2011. The Warriors were positioned among the top eight teams in Division V, Region 17 before easily defeating Africentric 416 in the week 10 matchup. Despite the victory, Eastmoor dropped to ninth in the region, finishing one spot shy of a playoff berth. “That win related to a loss for us,” said coach Jim Miranda, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Franklin Heights. “You struggle when something like that happens, but you also have to win those games against Walnut Ridge and MarionFranklin.” Eastmoor finished 8-2 overall and 5-2 in the City LeagueSouth Division last year. Its losses came against MarionFranklin (21-7) and Walnut Ridge (33-14). It marked the third consecutive season in which the Warriors missed the playoffs after making four postseason appearances in a row from 2008-11. They reached the Division III state final in 2008, losing to Aurora 21-10.

returning starters, including junior running back Tyion Akins, who Miranda says is one of the top backs in central Ohio after rushing for nearly 900 yards last season. Akins missed three games. The defense has four returning starters, including senior linebacker David Via, who was first team all-league a year ago.

OFFENSE

Richard Holley is one of three returning starters on the offensive line for the Warriors. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

“We were pretty consistent during that time and we’ve been close recently,” Miranda said. “One year (2007) we went 9-1 and missed getting in (the Division III playoffs). We’ve been

absent since 2011, but I think this is a team that can get us back into the playoffs if we gain some confidence.” Eastmoor will be most experienced on offense with six

After being the backup last season, junior quarterback Josh Jones is ready to take over an offense that Miranda converted to a spread from a power running game in 2013. Coaches have watched Jones become more confident in reading opposing defenses. Success will depend on Jones getting the ball to Akins as well as another returning starter, senior wide receiver Terry Johnson, who was first-team allleague last year. To complement the skill positions, the Warriors have a veteran line with seniors Malik Johnson, Richard Holley and Nigel Mcmillan all back in starting roles. Senior Jeffrey Owens also is back at tight end. The other two expected starters on the line are freshman Kris Wilkins and junior Khalil Swayne. Among the key losses to

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ............at Franklin Heights Sept. 4 .......................vs. Granville Sept. 11.....................at Northland *Sept. 18..........................vs. West *Sept. 25 .......................vs. Briggs *Oct. 2 .............................at South *Oct. 9.................vs. Walnut Ridge *Oct. 16 ............at Marion-Franklin *Oct. 23 .............vs. Independence *Oct. 30 ...................vs. Africentric 2014 RESULTS (8-2 overall, 5-2 City-South) Westland ........................W, 28-14 St. Charles........................W, 17-7 Thomas Worthington .........W, 55-0 *West .............................W, 37-12 *Briggs .............................W, 48-0

*South ..............................W, 66-0 *Walnut Ridge..................L, 33-14 *Marion-Franklin................L, 21-7 *Independence................W, 50-32 *Africentric .......................W, 41-6 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS •Coach: Jim Miranda, 13th season •Top players: Tyion Akins (RB), Richard Holley (OL), Terry Johnson (WR/DB), Nigel Mcmillan (OL/DL), Jeffrey Owens (OL/DL), Keeshawn Ramsey (WR/LB) and David Via (LB) •Key losses: Keivon Belcher (DB), Chauncey Coleman (DL), Quincy Colvin (P), Lawrence Daily (OL/DL) and George Daniels IV (WR/DB)

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(614) 784-0800 graduation on offense were wide receivers George Daniels IV and Jaylen Woody and lineman Lawrence Daily, who was firstteam all-league. “We had a tremendous amount of skill last year and that was a good group of kids that we lost,” Miranda said.

DEFENSE

Eastmoor allowed an average of 12.6 points per game a year ago. The Warriors must replace

WARRIORS >> 66

First-year Nubians coach stresses patience

In taking over a high school football program that’s won once in its last 31 games, Mark Treece isn’t claiming that he’ll be a savior for Africentric Early College. As a first-year coach in the City League-South Division, he knows what his team will be up against with a 23-man roster. Any change will take time. “I honestly believe we can turn this thing around, but it’s going to take time,” said Treece, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Ansonia. “Of course if the Titanic could have turned on a dime, it wouldn’t have sunk.” Much of Treece’s time as a coach has been spent with innercity youth in Philadelphia and as an assistant at Dayton Belmont. He has been teaching for 33 years and is currently on the staff at Africentric. Treece is the third coach in as many seasons at Africentric. A year ago, Sean Zink’s team finished 1-9 overall, earning a 42-0 victory over Worthington Christian, a first-year program. The win snapped the Nubians’ 23-game losing streak. From there, Africentric went 0-7 in the City-South and was outscored 285-50 in those games. “You keep smacking somePage 64

also instituted a strict weightlifting regimen and now mandates film study. “We’re like the Northwestern of old,” said Treece, referring to the Big Ten school’s 34game losing streak from 197982. “Look how long they were on a skid and they turned it around.”

back Tyler Potts, who started the second game of the season a year ago when 2015 graduate Raqwan Camara went down with an injury. He never lost the job. “He can throw the ball very well and he has decent arm strength,” Treece said. “He’s knowledgeable and he can run any offense. He’s also very elusive.” Most of the experience is on the line in returning senior starters Robert Lewis, Jalen Martin, Beonja King Wilson and D’yonmarte Bibins, a group that has made “real gains,” according to Treece. “Those guys are really hard workers and they’re able to adjust in most situations,” he said. “They’re learning how to use their size more than anything else. They’re playing with some leverage.” The Nubians expect to utilize a trio of running backs in juniors Coty Howard and Tyree Camara and freshman TaVoyn Morrison. At receiver, senior KeAuntay Monie, juniors Landon Martin and Kayin Perkins and freshman Deonte Wade are expected to start.

OFFENSE

DEFENSE

At a glance *Briggs ............................L, 56-36 *West ................................L, 33-0 *Marion-Franklin................L, 52-0 *Independence ..................L, 52-6 *South.................................L, 6-2 *Walnut Ridge....................L, 45-0 *Eastmoor Academy...........L, 41-6 *League contest INSIDE THE NUBIANS •Coach: Mark Treece, first season •Top players: D’yonmarte Bibins (OL/DL), Robert Lewis (OL/DL), Jalen Martin (OL/DL), Tyler Potts (QB/DB) and Beonja King Wilson (OL/DL) •Key loss: Keanieyl Rice (RB/DB)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.........................at Ansonia Sept. 4 ........at Grove City Christian Sept. 11 ..vs. Worthington Christian *Sept. 18...........................at West *Sept. 25 .........vs. Marion-Franklin *Oct. 2.................at Independence *Oct. 9............................vs. South *Oct. 16 ................at Walnut Ridge *Oct. 23 .........................vs. Briggs *Oct. 30.......at Eastmoor Academy 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-7 City-South) Linden-McKinley..............L, 56-16 Holgate............................L, 28-22 Worthington Christian........W, 42-0

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body in the face and it just wears on their morale,” Treece said. “People say it’s just sports, but there are adults who are talking bad about these kids. That’s hard on a kid and you’re still talking about a kid who’s 17 years old.” Treece spent the offseason taking players to camps that included Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le’Veon Bell’s Elite Exposure camp in his hometown of Groveport. Treece

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Africentric Early College

By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

just as central to their play on the other side of the ball. Potts, a Division VII firstteam all-state defensive back, is one of three returning starters to a defense that allowed 36.9 points per game. He will be joined by Wade, Perkins and sophomore Jaron Anderson in the secondary. The other returning starters are Lewis and Bibins on the line. “We’re going to be tested, but I’m excited about (Potts) returning,” Treece said. “He was all-state as a freshman, so he’s in position to get looks at the next level. Several of the other guys possess similar characteristics, but they’re young.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Tyler Potts (so., 5-11, 155) Running backs: Coty Howard (jr., 6-1, 205), TaVoyn Morrison (fr., 5-10, 205), Tyree Camara (jr., 5-11, 210) Receivers: *Landon Martin (jr., 6-0, 165), *KeAuntay Monie (sr., 5-11, 170), *Deonte Wade (fr., 6-1, 155), *Kayin Perkins (jr., 6-1, 170), Anthony Massey (sr., 5-11, 175), Jaron Anderson (so., 6-0, 150) Linemen: *Robert Lewis (sr.,

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NUBIANS >> 69 August 27, 2015

CITY L EAGUE-SOUTH D IVISION

Columbus West

Returnees to power Cowboys’ running game By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Cowboy’s second-leading rusher, Demetrious Brown (124 carries, 701 yards, 5 TDS), was second-team all-league. Junior fullback Mose’ Lattimore (108 carries, 495 yards, 4 TDs) also returns. The assistant coach who introduced the double-wing to West has moved on, as Derek Katris was named the coach at Marion Elgin. To replace him, Flusche added former Africentric coach Shawn Zink as his offensive coordinator. “I knew (Zink) ran almost exactly the same stuff over there, so it’s just going to be a little bit different version,” Flusche said. “We’ve got the personnel to run it and, hopefully, we’re going to have even more success with it this season.” In past seasons, Flusche’s staff developed two of the area’s most prolific passers in Chris Rhode and Eric Stewart. Rhode, who led the Cowboys to their best finish under Flusche at 73 in 2011, threw for more than 2,500 yards. His predecessor was Stewart, who threw for Central District records of more than 8,400 yards and 85 touchdowns during his career.

When opponents went up against the Columbus West High School football team last year, the scouting report looked much different than in the past. Gone was the Cowboys’ pass-happy spread offense that could rack up yards with 20-30 passes a game. In its place, a strong rushing game with the double-wing, a formation that features two wingbacks, a receiver, a tight end and a fullback. West compiled more than 2,500 yards on the ground and averaged nearly 25 points per game as it finished 5-5 overall and 3-4 in the City LeagueSouth Division. Coach Mike Flusche, who begins his ninth season, is ready to take that success to the next level. “It didn’t make sense to go in a different direction,” said Flusche, whose team opens Aug. 28 against visiting Mifflin. “We’re going to tweak things a little bit, but we’ve got everybody back.” That personnel includes one of the area’s top backs in senOFFENSE ior Byron White, a first-team Along with a stable of returnall-league, second-team all-district selection who carried 183 ing starters in the backfield, the times for 1,019 yards and 16 Cowboys have four returning starters up front. touchdowns.

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28..........................vs. Mifflin Sept. 4......................at Centennial Sept. 11............................vs. East *Sept. 18..................vs. Africentric *Sept. 25 .............vs. Walnut Ridge *Oct. 2.............vs. Marion-Franklin *Oct. 9.................at Independence *Oct 16.......vs. Eastmoor Academy *Oct. 23..........................vs. South *Oct. 30 ..........................at Briggs 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 3-4 in City-South) Franklin Heights...............L, 26-20 Linden-Mckinley .............W, 40-20 East..................................W, 41-0 *Eastmoor Academy.........L, 37-12 *Africentric .......................W, 33-0

*Walnut Ridge....................L, 14-6 *Marion-Franklin................L, 32-7 *Independence ................L, 52-14 *South ............................W, 59-14 *Briggs ...........................W, 17-14 *League contest INSIDE THE COWBOYS •Coach: Mike Flusche, ninth season •Top players: Demetrious Brown (QB/DB), Shamar Brown (RB/DB), Rolanderick Dumas (LB), Antonio Givens (TE/DE),Tim Hufford (WR/DB), Mose’ Lattimore (FB/LB),Austin Sable (OL/DL), Byron White (RB/DB) •Key losses: Rodney Johnson (TE), Kevin Russell (LB), Mackenzie Seiber (DB)

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(614) 784-0800 Twin brothers and sophomores Mathew and Dawson Shaw and junior Austin Stable are among the eight returning offensive starters. West will be without graduate Rodney Johnson, who was a first-team allleague tight end a year ago. Flusche also expects to have the ability to throw the ball as Brown replaces White at quarterback. “Demetrious has a nice arm

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See our ad on pg. 91 and he’s truly a dual-threat quarterback.” The starters returning at receiver are senior Tim Huffurd and junior Shamar Brown.

DEFENSE

Although West lost to graduation linebacker Kevin Russell (first-team all-league, second-team all-district) and defensive back Mackenzie Seiber (first-team all-league, second-

team all-district), there are six returning starters for a defense that allowed around 21 points per game a year ago. Much of that experience is in the secondary, where Demetrious Brown, White and Huffurd return as starters. Senior Rolanderick Dumas was a second-team all-league and special mention all-district selection at linebacker, where Lattimore also is a returning starter. The line of the 3-4 defense will be anchored by Sable, who will rotate with junior Wesley Zefi at nose guard. “We’ve cut down the scheme and made it a little easier,” Flusche said. “I just think we’re going to be better. Those six who are back have really made the defense their own.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Demetrious Brown (jr., 5-11, 170) Running backs: *Byron White (sr., 6-0, 190), *Mose’ Lattimore (jr., 6-0, 220), Leroy Canter (jr., 5-10, 175) Receivers/wingbacks: Tim Huffurd (sr., 5-10, 160), *Shamar Brown (jr. 6-3, 185) Tight ends: *Antonio Givens (sr., 6-8, 280), Dale Martin (jr., 6-1, 210) Linemen: *Mathew Shaw (so., 5-10, 220), *Dawson Shaw (so., 5-10, 220), *Fallen Davis

Columbus South

Setting foundation on mind of new coach

By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

There came a point and time when Grady Parks Jr. was posed a question from his high school football coaching mentor: Do you want to be a head coach? The longtime assistant under veteran Eastmoor Academy coach Jim Miranda responded with a question of his own: Do you think I’m ready to be a head coach? “It was like we were going back and forth with those questions,” said Parks, who had been Eastmoor’s defensive coordinator since 2007 and also coached with Miranda at Northland (1995-1997, 2001). “But I knew one day I wanted to get a head coaching job and he gave me his blessing.” The task for this first-year head coach is turning around a Columbus South program that hasn’t had a winning season since the Bulldogs finished 64 in 2006 under graduate Jeramie Carter. In three years under previous coach Keith Dimmy, who is now an assistant wide receivers coach at Ohio Dominican, South went 8-22, including last season’s finish at 1-9 when it was outscored 439-76. Parks, a native of West Palm Beach, Fla., and graduate of Urbana University, has been August 27, 2015

around winning programs. With him is former Eastmoor offensive coordinator Tim Adams. “We know it’s going to take work because we’ve come up through the ranks together,” said Parks, whose team opens at St. Charles on Friday, Aug. 28. “Things haven’t changed in our coaching philosophy and commitment. If we didn’t think we could get to a point where 50 to 60 kids are coming out and we’re winning every year, we wouldn’t be here.” Depth will be a challenge this year, as the Bulldogs had 3035 players participating in preseason practices. “We understand that this is a process and you have to start with a foundation,” Parks said. “You can’t build a house from the top down.”

OFFENSE

Having coached in the City League-South, Parks understands the importance of being able to run the ball. He will have a couple of big bodies up front in senior Nigel Brown (6-foot2, 310 pounds), one of only two returning starters, and sophomore Micha Brown (5-10, 326). “We want to be physical up front,” Parks said. “We’re not going to be fancy.” The other returning starter is junior Dezujwann Robinson, who can play both quarterback

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28....................at St. Charles Sept. 4 ......................at Groveport Sept. 11 ....at Thomas Worthington *Sept. 18.............at Independence *Sept. 25....vs. Eastmoor Academy *Oct. 2...........................vs. Briggs *Oct. 9 ......................at Africentric *Oct. 16 ............................at West *Oct. 23...............vs. Walnut Ridge *Oct. 30 ..........vs. Marion-Franklin 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 1-6 City-South) Whetstone.........................L, 28-8 Groveport..........................L, 49-0 Harvest Prep .....................L, 41-0 *Walnut Ridge .................L, 50-14

*Independence ..................L, 46-6 *Eastmoor Academy ..........L, 66-0 *Briggs............................L, 51-20 *Africentric.........................W, 6-2 *West..............................L, 59-14 *Marion-Franklin ...............L, 47-8 *League contest INSIDE THE BULLDOGS •Coach: Grady Parks Jr., first season •Top players: Keiandre Banks-Petty (WR/DB), Nigel Brown (OL/DL), Lamont Broomfield (OL/DL), Ahmad Holloway (OL/DL), Kaveion Martin (QB/RB/DB), Dezujwann Robinson (QB/WR/LB), •Key loss: Joehnis Joyce (QB)

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(614) 784-0800 and receiver. Junior Kaveion Martin also has been getting snaps at quarterback, where graduate Joehnis Joyce was second-team allleague last season. The starting lineup could feature as many as three freshmen in running back Braylon Threats and receivers Dequan Petty and Haisaun Martin. “We’re playing the numbers game, so we’re really going to

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See our ad on pg. 91 have to manage minutes and find out where we can utilize our athletes,” Parks said.

DEFENSE

son and junior linebacker Keith Beverly, every expected starter on defense will be two-way players. “We’re going to keep everything in front of us and we’re going to run to the football,” Parks said.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Dezujwann Robinson (jr., 6-1, 185), Kaveion Martin (jr., 5-10, 165) Running backs: Braylon Threats (fr., 5-9, 155), Martin Receivers: Robinson, *Haisaun Martin (fr., 5-10, 150), *Keiandre Banks-Petty (jr., 60, 165) Tight end: *Dequan Petty (fr., 6-1, 145) Linemen: *Nigel Brown (sr., 6-2, 310), *Lamont Broomfield (jr., 6-3, 260), *Ahmad Holloway (so., 6-3, 255), *Micha Brown (so., 5-10, 326), *Jacob Todd (jr., 6-0, 240) Defense Linemen: *Brown, *Broomfield, *Holloway Linebackers: *Robinson, *Petty, *Threats, *Keith Beverly (jr., 5-11, 190) Secondary: *Haisaun Martin, *Kaveion Martin, *BanksPetty, *Trevon Thompson (sr., 6-1, 170) (*Denotes projected starter)

Both Robinson and Brown are returning starters on defense, and Robinson was second-team all-league at linebacker last season when South allowed nearly 44 points per game. With the exception of senior defensive back Trevon Thomp- sports@thisweeknews.com

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(sr., 6-0, 220), *Austin Sable (jr., 5-10, 200), *Mike Ross (jr., 5-10, 230), Jacob McCoy (jr., 6-3, 200), Wesley Zefi (jr., 62, 320) Defense Linemen: *Sable, *Givens, *Davis, Zefi, Sedric Desson (jr., 5-10, 175) Linebackers: *Martin, *Lattimore, *Phillip Thompson (so., 5-9, 170), *Rolanderick Dumas (sr. 5-10, 150), Canter, Harris Rodgers (jr., 5-10, 160) Secondary: *Demetrious Brown, *White, *Huffurd, *Shamar Brown Special teams Kicker: *Kassim Hassan (jr., 5-10, 174) Punter: *Rogers Long snapper: *Rolanderick (*Denotes projected starter)

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Page 65

CITY L EAGUE -S OUTH D IVISION

PANTHERS

SCOTS

FROM >> 55

A year ago, Linden’s top players offensively were 2015 graduate Nick Battle, who rushed for 1,001 yards and had 20 receptions, as well as classmates James Williams (20 catches for 404 yards, 8 total touchdowns) and Hasan Varence (23 catches for 765 yards, 564 yards passing).

DEFENSE

Among the few returnees who were key players last year is senior Da’Mon Davis, who will lead the defense at outside linebacker in addition to starting at tight end. Britford, Lawson and Rogers also should be among the key defensive linemen. Senior Jericho Logan, who according to Ryan is one of the team’s most athletic players, should start in the secondary. George Reid (DB), who had five interceptions, is a 2015 graduate who made first-team all-district in Division V on defense along with Battle (LB, 20 tackles for loss). Varence (DL) and Williams (DB) were other key defenders a year ago.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Taking over at punter for Battle, who averaged 43 yards per punt last season, is expected to be sophomore Parker Parsons. Parsons also could be the team’s kicker.

HARRISON

FROM >> 61

all-district honors in Division III. Walnut Ridge lost its first three games and four of its first five before closing the season with five consecutive wins to finish 6-4 overall and 6-1 in

FROM >> 61

At a glance

ond-team all-league) and junior Kameron Brown return along the line of the 4-3 defense. At linebacker, junior Quoran Knights (71 tackles) and sophomore Justin Vance (81 tackles) are expected to lead the group. The secondary includes returning starters in juniors Michael Ayers (78 tackles), a three-year starter who was second-team all-league, and Darrick Forrest. “I like our speed,” Mattox said. “We’ll be able to play any coverage we want and allow our linebackers to run around.”

Tyalor (jr., 6-7, 175) Tight end: Tarik Wright (sr., 6-3, 270) Linemen: *Kameron Brown (jr., 6-0, 260), *Matias Fuller (soph., 5-11, 210), *Arius Griffin (jr., 6-3, 290), *Marqwon Hale (jr., 6-2, 240), *William Harris (jr., 5-11, 330), Tyler Crosky (sr., 5-9, 185), Kyron Grant (jr., 5-9, 280), Tambourra Jenkins (sr., 5-9, 230) Defense Linemen: *Brown, *Harris, *Wright, Crosky, Fuller, Jenkins Linebackers: *Knights, *Justin Vance (soph., 5-11, 200), Chris Meadows (jr., 510, 170), Harrison, Jajuan Johnson (soph., 5-11, 175) Secondary: *Michael Ayers (jr., 6-3, 180), *Deohn Bunts (sr., 5-7, 160), *Darrick Forrest (jr., 6-0, 175), *Mclean, Tyrell Hopson (sr., 5-9, 155), Wade Ector (sr., 5-8, 150), Troy Jones (sr., 5-8, 140) Special teams Kicker: *Demba Dja (sr., 510, 150) Punter: *Harrison (*Denotes projected starter)

Although Walnut Ridge lost a first-team all-league and special mention all-district receiver and running back to graduation in Jaisean Johnson, seniors Darius Mclean (10 catches, 107 yards) and Kalib Younger return at receiver. Also gone are four starters up front in Dezjuan Starks, Damon Hardgrove, Brian Edwards and Xzavier Files. Starks was first-team all-league and first-team all-district. A junior-led group will take their place. “We tried to get those guys some playing time last year,” Mattox said. “It’s going to be interesting. They’re a group $ THE LINEUP that works hard and I think on Lennox Furnace & AC Offense we’re moving in the right direcreplacement system Quarterback: Malik Harrition.” Not valid with any other discounts son (sr., 6-4, 215) Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 DEFENSE Running backs: *Andre (614) 784-0800 See our ad on pg. 91 While the Scots lost first- Franklin (jr., 5-7, 170), team all-league and first-team *William Stringer (jr., 6-0, all-district linebacker Jaylen 180), Quoran Knights (jr., 5(sr., 6-4, 295), Quadarius Spotts (102 tackles) to gradu- 10, 185) THE LINEUP McDonald (so.) Offense Receivers: *Azende Johnation and Files up front, six Defense Quarterbacks: *Tre’ Sanders starters are back for what has son (sr., 6-0, 160), *Darius L i n e m e n : *Britford, *Law(jr., 5-10, 175), Neal Pradier been one of the stingiest Mclean (sr. 6-3, 175), *Kalib (sr., 6-4, 225), Nelson Vargas son, *Rogers, *Pradier Younger (sr., 6-2, 180), Joseph Linebackers: *Davis, *Brit- defenses in the City-South. (sr.) Senior Tarik Wright (sec- Martin (jr., 6-1, 175), Mar’ya sports@thisweeknews.com ford, *Calloway Running backs: Maurice Secondary: *Jericho Logan Fountain (sr.), Michael Simon (sr.), *Simon, *Henry (sr.), *Cordell Calloway (jr.) Special teams Receivers: *Da’Sean Henry Kicker: *Parker Parsons (so.) (jr.), Michael Johnson (fr.) FROM >> 64 Punter: *Parsons (jr., 6-0, 160), Davey Wheeler SPECIAL TEAMS Tight end: *Da’Mon Davis Returners: *Simon, *Henry Eastmoor returns its kicker (sr., 5-10, 160) (sr.) two first-team all-league selec- and punter in senior Quincy Long snapper: *Lawson Slotbacks: *Jackson, KeeLinemen: *Daevon Britford (*Denotes projected starter) tions in 2015 graduates Colvin, who was first-team all- shawn Ramsey (jr., 5-10, 180), (sr., 6-2, 250), *Tamarko LawChauncey Coleman (lineman) district last year as a punter. Malik Crockett (jr., 6-0, 175) son (sr. 6-1, 235), *Aric Rogers julrey@thisweeknews.com and Keivon Belcher (back). Tight ends: *Jeffrey Owens Via is back as the long snapReturning to starting roles per. (sr., 6-2, 230), David Via (sr., are Johnson in the secondary, 6-0, 225) THE LINEUP Via and Keeshawn Ramsey at Linemen: *Malik Johnson linebacker and Owens at end. (sr., 6-3, 250), *Richard HolOffense the league. It earned at least a ish. “Terry is the quarterback on Quarterback: *Josh Jones (jr., ley (sr., 6-0, 230), *Khalil share of second in the league “I think I’ve improved a lot,” defense and this is a group that 6-0, 175) Swayne (jr., 6-0, 250), *Nigel for the third consecutive sea- Harrison said. “My sophomore played quite a bit toward the Running backs: *Tyion Mcmillan (sr., 6-0, 240), *Kris son. year I wasn’t really confident end of the year last year as Akins (jr., 6-0, 187), Dalen Jack- Wilkins (fr., 6-3, 250) As a sophomore, he rushed in my quarterbacking, but last sophomores,” Miranda said. “I son (jr., 5-7, 175), Savon Defense for 559 yards and five touch- year I got better. Now I’m con- know we can go up against the Edwards (fr., 5-9, 170) Linemen: *Owens, downs and threw for 909 yards fident in leading the offense.” run. The question is getting Receivers: *Terry Johnson *Emmanuel Ray (jr., 5-11, 290), and seven touchdowns while these guys to play at a higher (sr., 6-2, 170), *Michael Keels EASTMOOR >> 89 leading the Scots to a 7-3 fin- julrey@thisweeknews.com level.” (jr., 6-1, 175), Antoine French 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .........................at Orrville Sept. 4......vs. Columbus Academy Sept. 11.............vs. Independence *Sept. 18 .................at Beechcroft Sept. 25...............at Licking Valley *Oct. 2 ....................vs. Whetstone *Oct. 9...........................vs. Mifflin *Oct. 16 ...................vs. Northland *Oct. 23 ...................at Centennial *Oct. 30.............at Columbus East 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-5 City-North) Africentric ......................W, 56-16 Columbus West ...............L, 40-20 Central Crossing................L, 44-8 *Centennial .....................L, 27-14 *Beechcroft.......................L, 41-8 Ansonia ..........................L, 28-20

*Whetstone .....................L, 28-14 *Mifflin..............................L, 12-0 *Northland ........................L, 33-6 *Columbus East................W, 45-8 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS •Coach: Jason Ryan, first season •Top players: Daevon Britford (OL/DL), Cordell Calloway (RB/LB), Tamarko Lawson (OL/DL/LS), Jericho Logan (DB), Da’Mon Davis (TE/LB), Da’Sean Henry (WR/DB),Aric Rogers (OL/DL) and Tre’ Sanders (QB) •Key losses: Nick Battle (RB/LB/K/P), Wanya Glenn (QB), Marquise Mann (RB), George Reid (RB), Josh Spelhaug (OL/DL), Jeff Swalbauch (OL/DL), Hasan Vance (TE/LB) and James Williams (WR/DB)

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August 27, 2015

CENTRAL CATHOLIC LEAGUE

Spotlight

Unselfish attitude benefits Andrews By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Inside the division

Austin Andrews wanted to be a part of the DeSales High School football program for almost as long as he can remember. Watching his uncle, Joey Whitehead, help the Stallions go deep into the playoffs his final two seasons and be named Division II district Defensive Player of the Year as a senior in 2007 left a lasting mark. That doesn’t necessarily mean that the two-year regular at running back loves everything about being part of an option offense bent on how the quarterback chooses to share the ball. “I do and I don’t,” Andrews said. “It’s hard sometimes. I grew up having the ball in my hands, but it’s good for me from a maturity aspect, because at a young age you feel like you’re the best and should always have the ball. You can’t have that mindset and win games. It actually helps me a lot.” That unselfishness should pay off for Andrews and the Stallions again this fall. A first-team all-district player in Division III at defensive back last year when DeSales finished 10-3, the 6foot, 180-pound Andrews began racking up college offers during the past offseason. He committed to play for Michigan State in May, setting himself up to follow in the foot-

2014 SILVER STANDINGS Team League Overall DeSales 2-0 10-3 Watteson 1-1 3-8 St. Charles 0-2 3-6 2014 GOLD STANDINGS Team League Overall Hartley 1-0 10-3 Ready 0-1 5-4

steps of 2010 DeSales graduate and four-year Spartans letterwinner and offensive lineman Travis Jackson. Andrews chose Michigan State from a list of more than 20 FBS offers that includes 11 from power-five conferences. Last fall, Andrews was the Stallions’ third-leading rusher with 819 yards and scored 10 touchdowns. Defensively, he had 37 tackles and one interception with four passbreakups. Clocked at 4.5 seconds in the 40 yards, Andrews also should see time as a kick and punt returner this season. “We knew early on that Austin was a football player,” coach Ryan Wiggins said. “He’s got great length and he’s a playmaker. There’s a lot of ability there. He’s so explosive, and when you have Austin, you have one of the better talents out there.” While Whitehead was a punishing defensive lineman at 60, 305 pounds who went on to play for Otterbein, Andrews is considered a three-star recruit

2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Sept. 18 Watterson at St. Charles Oct. 2 Watterson at DeSales Oct. 23 DeSales at St. Charles Oct. 30 Hartley vs. Ready at Hilliard Bradley

by Rivals.com and Scout.com who could play either safety or cornerback in college. He believes he still has some things to improve on, though, to get ready for the college level. “I like hitting, but I also like to cover a lot,” Andrews said. “I like to tackle. I want to work on covering a little better. There were a couple deep balls that got over me last year that shouldn’t have.” In 2013 when the Stallions went 5-4 and came up short of the playoffs for the second consecutive season, Andrews rushed for nearly 400 yards over the final three games and finished as the leading rusher with 526 yards and four scores. Last season, he averaged eight carries per game but 7.8 yards per attempt. Andrews shined defensively in his first prep playoff game a year ago, grabbing an interception as the Stallions beat Dover 31-14 in their Region 9 postseason opener. Then in DeSales’ 24-14 win over Jackson in a second-round

Austin Andrews has committed to play at Michigan State. A year ago, he rushed for 819 yards and scored 10 touchdowns and also had 37 tackles and one interception. CHRIS PARKER/THISWEEKSPORTS

game, he rushed for 68 yards, including a 27-yard run to set up his team’s final touchdown. Andrews’ defensive abilities couldn’t slow down Athens

in the Stallions’ 52-20 loss in downs and 307 yards. the Region 9 final as Bulldogs Still, it was an experience quarterback Joe Burrow, who that he wouldn’t trade. went on to sign with Ohio ANDREWS >> 72 State, passed for five touch-

DeSales

Jacoby, Pentello rejoin Stallions’ coaching staff By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......................at Lancaster Sept. 4........vs. Dayton Chaminade Julienne Sept. 11 .........at Canal Winchester Sept. 18 .........................at Hartley Sept. 26 at Covington (Ky.) Catholic *Oct. 2......................vs. Watterson Oct. 9........vs. Warrensville Heights Oct. 16...........................vs. Logan *Oct. 23....................at St. Charles Oct. 30..vs. Wheeling (W.Va.) Linsly 2014 RESULTS (10-3 overall, 2-0 CCL-Silver) Westerville Central ...........L, 21-17 Chaminade Julienne........W, 49-30 New Albany ......................W, 34-9 Akron Buchtel .................W, 35-27 Warrensville Heights........W, 49-14 *St. Charles.......................W, 40-0 Centennial ........................W, 42-0

*Watterson ..............W, 17-14 (OT) Hartley ..............................L, 21-7 Wheeling (W.Va.) Linsly......W, 33-7 PLAYOFFS Dover .............................W, 31-14 Jackson..........................W, 24-14 Athens.............................L, 52-20 *League contest INSIDE THE STALLIONS •Coach: Ryan Wiggins, ninth season •Top players: Austin Andrews (RB/DB), Danny Barren (OL/DL), Nick Carter (OL/DL), Ryan Corkrean (TE/LB), Jake Gilmore (RB/LB), Darren Hankins (RB/DB), Drew McLuckie (OL/DL) and Derrius Mullins (OL/DL) •Key losses: Adam Acquista (RB/DB/K), Josh DeLozier (QB), Brian Dytko (OL/DL), Luke Melsop (TE/DL), Nick O’Brien (OL), Drew Selegue (OL/DL) and Mikey Wade (WR/DB)

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The DeSales High School football team got back on track regarding what it expects to accomplish on a regular basis last season, when it went 10-3 overall and was the Region 9 runner-up in Division III. The addition of Bob Jacoby and Rocky Pentello to the staff this fall should only help the Stallions build on what they accomplished a year ago. Jacoby was DeSales’ coach from 19882006, leading it to Division III state titles in 1997 and ’98, before coaching at Hamilton Township from 2007-09 and at Hamilton from 2010-12. Pentello is a former assistant at DeSales who led Westerville South’s program for 24 seasons before stepping down last season amid pressure after three games. “It’s really exciting to have (Jacoby) back,” said Wiggins, a 1997 DeSales graduate who played for Jacoby and then served under him as an assistant for nine seasons. “He’s passionate and we’re excited to have him. “Coach Pentello is helping us out with his knowledge of the back end of the defense. Over the course of many years

he’s had a lot of success.” Jacoby was an assistant at DeSales under former coach Tony Pusateri when the Stallions won the Division III state title in 1985 and succeeded him three seasons later. Pentello also was an assistant for the 1985 title team. In addition to the titles Jacoby was a part of, he helped DeSales earn state runner-up trophies in 1990, 1996, 2001 and 2005. The only state final DeSales has reached that Jacoby wasn’t a part of was in 2009 when a Wiggins-led team lost to Youngstown Mooney 35-7 for the Division III title. “Coach Jacoby is a guy I learned everything from,” Wiggins said. “One way or another, he’s been a huge part of the tradition of DeSales football. He’s been gone for 10 years now, and all of the players have heard the stories about him.” Regardless of the past success the program has enjoyed, count senior Jake Gilmore among those who aren’t dwelling on a 2014 season in which the Stallions won the CCL-Silver Division at 2-0 and got back to the playoffs following a two-

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year absence. “(Last) season was definitely a great season, but 2015 is what we’re on,” said Gilmore, who figures to be the team’s No. 1 fullback. “We have some new faces this year.”

OFFENSE

Despite the importance of quarterback play to their triple-option scheme, the Stallions spent much of the preseason unsure about who would be behind center. A strong crew of returning running backs has lessened possible concerns over the lack of an obvious starter at quarterback, however. No quarterback in the program threw a varsity pass last season when the starter was Josh DeLozier, a 2015 graduate who rushed for 1,130 yards while scoring 23 touchdowns. DeLozier is playing for John Carroll after making first-team all-district. Junior Dylan Todd saw action in three games last season at quarterback, while junior Chris Stoll and sophomores Paxon Hunter and Ty Van Fossen also could see time. Gilmore was the second-leading rusher

STALLIONS >> 72 Page 67

CENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

Watterson

Large roster raises Eagles’ expectations By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Although the Watterson High School football team enduring a second consecutive losing season last fall, numbers throughout its program rarely have been higher. A 36-member sophomore class that the coaching staff is high on has boosted the program’s overall numbers to more than 100 and lifted the spirits of a team that went just 2-8 for the second-worst winning percentage in its 59-year history. The biggest question is whether the improving depth and young talent can make enough of a difference to help the Eagles navigate a schedule that includes seven teams that posted winning records a year ago, including five that made the playoffs. In addition to a CCL schedule that includes a DeSales team that was a Division III, Region 9 runner-up last season, Cleveland Benedictine will play host to the Eagles after winning last year’s Division IV state title. Watterson is off during week nine, marking the second time in three seasons the Eagles will have a bye week. “The challenge is big and we’re excited about it,” coach Dan Bjelac said. “We’ve had three groups of 40-plus freshmen and we’ve been good at retaining people. I’ve been doing this for a lot of years and (the sophomore class) is a very good class, but they’ve got to develop. It’s a very good class potentially.”

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At a glance Buffalo (N.Y.) Canisius ......L, 21-14 *DeSales ..................L, 17-14 (OT) *St. Charles.......................W, 24-7 Winton Woods..................L, 26-22 *League contest INSIDE THE EAGLES •Coach: Dan Bjelac, 13th season •Top players: Adam Gilles (OL/DL), Matt Kent (TE/DL), Sam Lewis (RB/LB), Stephen Markos (QB/LB), Dylan Murphy (OL/DL), Michael Schweitzer (TE/DL/LB), Chase Towns (OL/DL) and Jack Yersavich (WR/DB) •Key losses: Tyler Bair (WR/DB), Stephen Golonka (OL/DL), Jack Haley (RB/LB), Ben Kaminski (RB/LB), Alex Loscko (WR/DB), Sam Maglicic (QB) and John Pirrmann (OL/DL)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.................at Walnut Ridge Sept. 4 .........vs. Olentangy Orange Sept. 11.............at Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit *Sept. 18..................at St. Charles Sept. 25 ..at Cleveland Benedictine *Oct. 2..........................at DeSales Oct. 9......................vs. Beechcroft Oct. 16..........................vs. Hartley Oct. 30 ........vs. Cin. Winton Woods 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-1 CCL-Silver) Walnut Ridge ....................W, 16-6 Mason...............................L, 15-7 Walsh Jesuit ......................L, 35-7 Poland Seminary..............L, 27-16 Cleveland Benedictine......L, 34-24 Hartley ............................L, 42-14

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For players such as senior Sam Lewis, a turnaround after winning five games over the past two seasons can’t happen soon enough. Two years ago, the Eagles averaged 12.3 points and went 3-6 overall including 0-2 in the CCL-Silver Division. They have made the playoffs just once since winning the 2010 Division III state title. Watterson opened last season by beating Walnut Ridge 16-6 but lost its next seven before beating St. Charles 247. The Eagles, who went 1-1 in the CCL-Silver, lost five games by 10 points or fewer – including a 17-14 overtime defeat at home against DeSales. “I’m fed up with losing,” Lewis said. “My attitude this year is, ‘We’re mad and we’re ready to go out and change that.’ We’re going to play really hard and have a good season.”

OFFENSE

See our ad on pg. 91 the leading returning rusher after finishing with 237 yards and adding 92 yards in receptions. Senior Michael Schweitzer is back at tight end after missing all of last year with an injury that occurred in the preseason. He was the projected starter heading into last season. Seniors Adam Gilles and Chase Towns and junior Matt Clark all should take on bigger roles on the offensive line after seeing action last fall. Senior Dylan Murphy (6foot-5, 285 pounds) is one of the biggest players in the program and also should start on the line. “We’ll be a little bit different offensively, more of a wingT hybrid with a spread package,” Bjelac said. “I’m very comfortable with the depth we have at running back.” The Eagles will have a new receiving corps after losing their top two receivers, Alex Loscko (20 catches) and Tyler Bair (11 catches), to graduation. One of the players looking to make an impact at that position is sophomore Nate Meyer, the son of Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer.

The Eagles are looking for more offense after scoring more than 20 points just three times last season. Taking over at quarterback is senior Stephen Markos, who passed for 155 yards and two touchdowns in limited duty. Sam Maglicic, who completed 56 of 127 passes for 702 yards DEFENSE and six touchdowns and rushed Lewis is back at linebacker for 713 yards and 10 scores while making special mention after finishing with a team-best all-district, is at Youngstown 73.5 tackles and 13 tackles for loss a year ago. State. Senior Matt Kent (14.5 tackSenior Michael Auddino is

Michael Auddino is the leading returning rusher with 237 yards. The Eagles open the season Aug. 28 at Walnut Ridge. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

les, two tackles for loss) is a returnee who should help anchor the defensive line along with seniors Adam Gilles, Murphy and Chase Towns. The biggest loss on defense was lineman John Pirrmann, who had 50.5 tackles and six tackles for loss and now is playing for Harvard. Bair had 41.5 tackles and two interceptions in the secondary. Jack Haley, another 2015 graduate, had 41 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss at linebacker and is playing for Heidelberg.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Eagles will have a less experienced kicking unit after senior Michael Harper was lost to graduation. He made five field goals and averaged 40.6 yards per punt. Auddino averaged 27.4 yards on five kickoff returns and junior Adam Kasun

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Linemen: Matt Clark (sr., 5returned one kickoff for 40 11, 193), *Adam Gilles (sr., 6yards last season. 2, 208), *Dylan Murphy (sr., 6-5, 285), Joel Silleck (sr., 6THE LINEUP 1, 210), *Chase Towns (sr., 6Offense Quarterbacks: *Stephen 2, 223), Michael Massinople (jr., 5-10, 227), Dominic Elmo Markos (sr., 6-2, 203), Will (soph., 5-10, 226) Davis (jr., 6-1, 170), Cole Defense Andrews (soph., 5-10, 175) Linemen: *Gilles, *Kent, Running backs: *Michael Auddino (sr., 5-11, 187), *Sam *Murphy, *Towns, Will Lewis (sr., 6-1, 215), Nick Fortkamp (jr., 5-11, 257) Linebackers: *Auddino, Melaragno (sr., 5-11, 181), Nick Bowen (jr., 5-10, 185), *Lewis, *Bratka Secondary: Andy Cotter (sr., Max Bratka (jr., 5-10, 202), Adam Kasun (jr., 5-10, 171) 6-0, 173), *Melaragno, *WinReceivers: Andy Cotter (sr., ters, *Yersavich 6-0, 173), *Donovan Kelly (sr., Special teams Kicker: Nick Rocci (jr., 55-9, 162), *Jacob Winters (sr., 6-1, 177), Jack Yersavich (sr., 9, 155), *Kevin Lamming 6-1, 181), Connor Busch (jr., (soph., 6-1, 160) Punter: *Schweitzer, Giesler 6-0, 172), Nate Meyer (soph., Returners: *Auddino, 6-1, 180) Tight end: Matt Kent (sr., 6- *Kasun Long snapper: *Kent 1, 224), *Michael Schweitzer (sr., 6-3, 226), Nick Giesler julrey@thisweeknews.com (jr., 6-1, 224)

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CENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

St. Charles

Cardinals work toward stronger finishes By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Coach Jeff Pharion said his St. Charles Preparatory School football team was looking for a signature defense, and then realized it was there all of the time. The Cardinals had a 3-4 alignment as their base defensive set, but switched to the 43 when going up against CCLSilver Division foes DeSales and Watterson. But instead going back to the 3-4 when not facing the Stallions or Eagles, they have decided to stick with the four-man front in most of their defensive situations. “We were looking for an identity defensively, and I think we found it,” said Pharion, whose team finished 3-7 overall last season. “It’s something we feel comfortable with and it should be a good fit for us.” St. Charles has been focusing on tackling drills with the help of a tool called “Shadow Man” – which is an inflatable dummy with water in the bottom to add weight. Pharion said the prop has been invaluable. “We’re teaching hip tackling, going cheek to cheek,” he said. “(The Shadow Man) allows you to have contact in tackling without hitting another person and lowering the risk of injury.” Five of the Cardinals’ seven losses came to eventual playoff teams in Cincinnati La Salle (42-0), DeSales (40-0), Dublin Coffman (54-23), Hartley (2421) and Ironton (25-24). All five teams won first-round postseason contests. The Cardinals also lost three games they were winning at halftime, as they led Hartley 147 and Ironton 17-13 at the break. Against Watterson in week 8, St. Charles was up 7-0 at halftime but allowed 24 secondhalf points in a 24-7 loss to finish 0-2 in the CCL-Silver behind DeSales (2-0) and Watterson (1-1). “We suffered some adversity last year in the second half, especially in the third quarter,” senior offensive lineman Patrick McPherson said. “We have to stay focused.” Senior quarterback Joe Maciejewski said the mental aspect of the game is as important as the physical. “We have to focus on getting through the game without any mental breakdowns,” he said. “We have to keep our composure and stick with our fundamentals.” Otis Smith said the Cardinals

At a glance

Otis Smith will move into the hybrid back position for the Cardinals. A year ago, Smith had 16 receptions for 251 yards and a touchdown. Smith also will start in the secondary. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

have gone through tough conditioning that should help eliminate late-game fatigue and make the team stronger. “You have to be working hard every day to get ready for the season, and our conditioning sessions have been great,” said Smith, a starter at wide receiver and defensive back who was honorable mention all-district. “You have to be conditioned if you’re going to play on both sides of the ball. You have to be composed, because if something happens on offense you can’t take it over on defense. You have to be ready to play.”

OFFENSE

The Cardinals’ spread attack features a hybird back who is part-running back, part-wide receiver and sometimes, even part-quarterback. NiQuille Bell, a 2015 graduate, held that spot the previous two seasons, and Smith takes over that position. Smith caught 16 passes for 251 yards and one touchdown a year ago. “Otis played wide receiver last year and we’ve been working with him on some of the tailback plays,” Pharion said. “He can rotate in at tailback, and we’ll see if we can work in more for him as the season pro-

gresses.” The Cardinals are without senior running back Jacob Nowell, who left the school after rushing for 675 yards and seven touchdowns on 113 carries and being honorable mention alldistrict. Pharion said they will have a “running back-by-committee” in senior Pearson McDaniel, junior Davionn Johnson and sophomore Brooks McCann. Maciejewski takes over at quarterback after starting three games when 2015 graduate Jacob Moehrman was out with injury. “Joe has the best mechanical tools and the strongest arm of any quarterback that I’ve had here,” said Pharion, who begins his seventh season. “He kind of reminds of Jack Rafferty when he was here.”

DEFENSE

Pharion said the defensive line is a strength in its 4-3 set with several interchangeable performers to keep the players fresh on the field. That group include seniors Taylor Hill and McPherson, juniors Luke Brake, Eric Cothern and Grant Griffith, and sophomores Brandon Derrow and Jake Sattler.

“We put in a lot of time in the weight room to get stronger for this season,” McPherson said. “We have a good, young group of juniors who will be pushing the seniors to make us all better.” Kevin Leary is back at inside linebacker as the Cardinals look to replace the other two starters. One possible replacement, senior Nick Eramo, broke his collarbone and had surgery Aug. 11. His return is questionable. Smith leads a talented defensive backfield after finishing with 52 tackles last season.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Will Groeber returns to handle the kicking and punting. He was honorable mention all-district as a punter last season when he averaged 37.2 yards. Groeber also made all 26 of his extra-point attempts.

THE LINEUP

8, 180), Ronnie Wollett (sr., 60, 180), Kwesi Anekwe (jr., 511, 165), Jordan Burkey (jr., 59, 160), Stephen Cottrill (jr., 62, 195), Tanner Fix (jr., 5-8, 140) Tight ends: *Taylor Hill (sr., 6-1, 240), Drew Eldred (jr., 510, 180) Linemen: *Patrick McPherson (sr., 6-2, 285), *Will Scheirmann (jr., 6-0, 250), Chris Silber (sr., 6-2, 240), Chuck Caudill (jr., 6-4, 255), *Michael Feldmann (jr., 6-0, 215) Defense Linemen: *Hill, McPherson, Luke Brake (jr., 5-10, 210), *Eric Cothern (jr., 5-11, 205), Grant Griffith (jr., 6-2, 205), *Brandon Derrow (so., 6-3, 210), Jake Sattler (so., 5-9, 245) Linebackers: Cottrill, Ian Klingler (jr., 6-2, 180), *Kevin Leary (jr., 6-2, 185), Greg Scarpitti (jr., 6-0, 180) Secondary: *Smith, Burkey, *Johnson, McCann, Joseph Rivera (so., 5-11, 165) Special teams Kicker: *Will Groeber (sr., 5-10, 165) Punter: *Groeber Returners: Smith, Johnson, Fix Long snappers: Brake, Scarpitti

Offense Quarterbacks: *Joe Maciejewski (sr. 5-10, 190), Davionn Johnson (jr., 5-11, 170) Running backs: Pearson McDaniel (sr., 5-8, 155), Johnson, Brooks McCann (so., 511, 170) Receivers: *Ian Lennon (sr., 6-1, 170), *Otis Smith (sr., 5- shennen@thisweeknews.com

NUBIANS FROM >> 64

6-3, 275), *Terrance Long (sr., 6-1, 255), *Jalen Martin (sr., 59, 315), *Beonja King Wilson (sr., 5-11, 260), *D’yonmarte Bibins (sr., 6-5, 290), Matthew Alexander Paige (fr., 5-11, 245) August 27, 2015

Secondary: *Wade, *Potts, Defense Linemen: *Lewis, *A.C. *Perkins, *Anderson Woods (sr., 6-1, 170), Bibins, JarSpecial Teams rod Martin (sr., 5-6, 135), Long Kicker: Potts, Bibins Linebackers: *Morrison, Punter: Potts, Bibins Howard, Justin Martin (fr., 5(*Denotes projected starter) 11, 155), Kamar Wilbanks (jr., sports@thisweeknews.com 5-11, 170), Camara

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2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .......vs. Columbus South Sept. 4.............vs. Reynoldsburg Sept. 11 ...............vs. Big Walnut Sept. 18 ................vs. Watterson Sept. 25 ................vs. Columbus Crusaders at Otterbein *Oct. 2 ........................at Hartley Oct. 9 .............at Licking Heights Oct. 16 .......at Cincinnati LaSalle *Oct. 23 ...................vs. DeSales Oct. 30 ...............at Canal Fulton Northwest 2014 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 0-2 CCL-Silver) Dublin Coffman.............L, 54-23 Eastmoor Academy.........L, 17-7 Big Walnut ............W, 34-27 (OT) Hartley .........................L, 24-21 Columbus Crusaders......W, 42-0 *DeSales ........................L, 42-0 Ironton .........................L, 25-24 Cincinnati La Salle ..........L, 42-0 *Watterson .....................L, 24-7 Marion Harding..............W, 41-6 *League contest INSIDE THE CARDINALS •Coach: Jeff Pharion, seventh season •Top players: Eric Cothern (DL), Will Groeber (K/P), Grant Griffith (DL), Taylor Hill (DL, Davionn Johnson (RB/DB), Kevin Leary (LB), Joe Maciejewski (QB), Patrick McPherson (OL/DL),and Otis Smith (WR/DB) •Key losses: NiQuille Bell (WR/DB), Jack Billman (WR/LB), Matt Cooke (WR), Cole Delaney (OL/LB), Nick Eramo (WR/LB), Eddie Glace (LB), Jimmy Holtz (WR/DB), Kit MacDonald (OL/DL), Matt Martin (WR), Jacob Moehrman (QB/LB), Jacob Nowell (RB/LB), Peter Oellerman (OL) and Willie Wiseman (DB)

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CENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

Hartley

Hawks expecting another long postseason By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM During the past five seasons, the Hartley High School football team has won a state championship, earned a state runnerup finish and been to state semifinals two other times. This season’s team might stand toe-to-toe with any of those squads. Experience, leadership, size, speed – name it, and coach Brad Burchfield believes the Hawks have it as they prepare to open Aug. 28 at home against Reigning Sports Academy Thunder. “It’s the best we’ve ever been, and we expect things to go well again,” Burchfield said. “We have great talent and ability and we return a boatload of starters. Our camaraderie is fantastic. I love our team. This is going to be a great, great team.” Hartley overcame losing its first two games last season by winning its next eight to earn the No. 1 seed for the Division V, Region 17 playoffs. The Hawks’ only other loss was to Canton Central Catholic 34-24 in a state semifinal. Over the past five seasons, Hartley has gone 61-9, with three of the losses coming to three-time defending Division V state champion Coldwater. The Cavaliers aren’t back on the Hawks’ schedule, but last year’s Division III state champion, Toledo Central Catholic (Sept. 4), and three other teams that made the playoffs a year ago will be opponents. The Hawks also beat each of the other four teams that compete in the CCL, including DeSales. It was the first meeting between the Stallions and Hartley since 1987. The Hawks have beaten Ready five times in a row for the CCL-Gold Division title.

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something to motivate you, something to inspire you.

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Page 70

Junior quarterback Jake Ruby is one of eight returning starters on offense for the Hawks. Last season, Ruby rushed for 1,149 yards and 11 touchdowns and passed for 823 yards and two more scores. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEKSPORTS

“Our expectations are high every year, but this group is very goal-oriented,” Burchfield said. “We’re going to play the best of the best. It’s either going to make us good enough to compete for the state championship or we’re going to get better. You can’t predict who’s going to win the championship, but you can put yourself in a position to have a legitimate shot at it. It’s going to be a challenge, but we’ve got a lot of really accomplished players.”

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28............vs. Reigning Sports Academy Thunder Sept. 4 ..vs. Toledo Central Catholic Sept. 10...........vs. Marion-Franklin Sept. 18 ......................vs. DeSales Sept. 25 ...............vs. Beavercreek Oct. 2......................vs. St. Charles Oct. 9......at Fishers (Ind.) Hamilton Southeastern Oct. 16 ......................at Watterson Oct. 23 ....vs. Lima Central Catholic *Oct. 30 .........vs. Ready at Bradley 2014 RESULTS (11-3 overall, 1-0 CCL-Gold) Muskegon (Mich.) Catholic Central .......................................L, 24-14 Coldwater........................L, 26-14 Marion-Franklin ..............W, 21-20 St. Charles ......................W, 24-21 Thurgood Marshall ..........W, 30-29 Watterson.......................W, 42-14 Fort Wayne (Ind.) Luers....W, 43-13

OFFENSE

The Hawks return eight starters on offense, including their top two rushers in junior quarterback Jake Ruby and senior running back Quri Hickman. Ruby passed for 823 yards and two touchdowns and rushed 182 times for 1,149 yards and 11 scores. Hickman was firstteam all-district and finished with 1,548 yards and 28 touchdowns on 294 carries. Also back are junior Cam’Ron Culver (610 yards rushing, six touchdowns) and Richard Jones III (518 yards rushing, three touchdowns). Senior Rian Anderson is the leading returning receiver after catching 13 passes a year ago. Ruby and senior tight end Austin Rawlins both were special mention all-district. Although Hartley lost a firstteam all-district player on the offensive line to graduation in Ben Reis, four other starters up front return. Senior Ryan Reed will be in his third season starting and was second-team alldistrict last season along with senior Jared Croswell. Senior Ross Wirthman and junior Thomas Casmir also are back. “(Last year) taught me a lot about stepping up under pressure,” Hickman said. “We’re very excited that we have most of the same offensive line

Beechcroft......................W, 35-20 DeSales............................W, 21-7 *Ready ...........................W, 52-19 PLAYOFFS Portsmouth West.............W, 49-13 St. Clairsville.....................W, 42-7 Wheelersburg .................W, 45-38 Canton Central Catholic....L, 34-24 *League contest INSIDE THE HAWKS •Coach: Brad Burchfield, eighth year •Top players: Rian Anderson (WR/DB), Jared Croswell (OL), Cam’Ron Culver (RB/DB), Quri Hickman (RB/LB), Richard Jones III (RB/DB),Austin Rawlins (TE/DL), Ryan Reed (OL/LB) and Jake Ruby (QB/P) •Key losses: Jalen Austin (WR/LB), Cavell Bennett (RB/LB), Pat Heinmiller (OL/LB), Keith Key (TE/LB), Ben Reis (OL/DL), Mateo Saxton (RB/DB), Tayron Washington (TE/DL) and Jack Zang (RB/DB)

$ Rian Anderson is the leading returning receiver with 13 catches. KYLE ROBERTSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

returning.”

DEFENSE

Although the Hawks lost the district’s Defensive Player of the Year in linebacker Jack Zang, to graduation, six starters are back. Hickman finished with 40 tackles and returns to lead a linebacking corps that also features junior Cody Kirkbride (4.5 tackles for loss, one interception). Senior Sean Gilmore returns to lead the defensive line. Anderson (seven pass breakups), who was secondteam all-district on defense, and Jones III (seven pass breakups) return in the secondary. In addition to Zang, the Hawks lost first-team all-state selection Tayron Washington (DL) to graduation. Washington (Georgetown College), Keith Key (TE/LB, Ohio Uni-

versity) and Jalen Austin (WR/DB, Youngstown State) are playing collegiately.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Ben Hawk was the first-team all-district kicker a year ago when he made six of 10 field goals and 61 of 64 extra points. Ruby averaged 36.7 yards on 23 punts, with five going inside the 20. Jones III averaged 20.8 yards on 10 kickoff returns and Culver averaged 18.8 on eight kickoff returns. Both players also should be among the punt returners.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jake Ruby (jr., 6-0, 185), Conor Collins (jr., 6-6, 200)

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(614) 784-0800 Running backs: *Quri Hickman (sr., 6-0, 235), *Cam’Ron Culver (jr., 5-10, 175), Marquette Dixon (jr., 5-10, 195), Nick Onega (jr., 5-10, 195) Receivers: *Rian Anderson (sr., 6-3, 180), *Richard Jones (jr., 6-0, 175), Garrett Tipton (so., 6-4, 185) Tight ends: *Austin Rawlins (sr., 6-3, 220), Tyler Sweeney (sr., 6-3, 285), Jack Baughman (jr., 6-0, 10), Nick Cone (so., 6-2, 220) Linemen: *Ryan Reed (sr., 6-0, 220), *Ross Wirthman (sr., 6-3, 270), *Jared Croswell (sr., 5-10, 240), *Thomas Casmir (jr., 6-0, 230), Adam Cone (jr., 6-1, 245), *Cody Kirkbride (jr. 6-0, 220) Defense Linemen: *Sean Gilmore

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See our ad on pg. 91 (sr., 5-10, 225), *Sweeney, Jake Hanson (sr., 5-10, 220), Vashawn Walker (sr., 6-0, 255), Mycheal Poole (jr., 5-10, 285), Jordin Smith (jr., 6-1, 240) Linebackers: *Hickman, *Collins, *Kirkbride, Baughman, Casmir, Jacob McFeeters (jr., 5-10, 175) Secondary: *Anderson, *Jones, *Culver, Jaden Manley (jr., 5-10, 185), Ruby Special teams Kicker: *Ben Hawk (sr., 60, 165) Punter: *Ruby Returners: Anderson, Jones, Culver Long snapper: *Reed (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com

August 27, 2015

CENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

Ready

Silver Knights counting on upperclassmen By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Now that he’s a senior on the Ready High School football team, Marcus Stone isn’t in a mood for horseplay heading into the season. Having a hard-nosed attitude is something he hopes that he and the tiny group of seniors he’s joined by can instill into a roster that is heavy on freshmen and sophomores. Ready followed a 12-2 finish in 2013 when it made a Division VI state semifinal by slipping to 5-4 overall and out of the playoffs in coach Brian Cross’ first season. “We want to be better than the 5-4 we were last year,” Stone said. “We expect our seniors to come out and motivate each other, come out week by week and compete hard (every play). “I’m pretty hard on the young guys because when I was younger I didn’t take it as seriously as I should have. We have to step it up this year.” With fewer than 50 players overall – including just seven seniors and nine juniors – that won’t be easy. The positive side of the roster situation is that the Silver Knights lost only 10 players from a year ago to graduation, although an expected returnee, junior running back Brenden Knox, also is no longer with the program after he transferred to Franklin Heights. There are nine returning starters overall. “We’ve got about 46 on the team, and right now we’re just trying to plug them into positions,” Cross said. “We’re just trying to find out what they can do. We’re actually up a little bit (numbers-wise), but our goal is to have 15 kids per class. There are only 124 boys in the school, so if I can get 60 kids out, that would give us some depth.” Ready opened last season with three consecutive wins and was 5-1 before losing its final three games of the regu-

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ....vs. Whitehall at DeSales Sept. 4............................at Briggs Sept. 11......vs. London at DeSales Sept. 18 .............at Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy Sept. 25........................at Minford Oct. 2..............at Bucyrus Wynford Oct. 10....vs. Lima Central Catholic at Upper Arlington Oct. 1 ....at Wheeling (W.Va.) Linsly *Oct. 30........vs. Hartley at Bradley 2014 RESULTS (5-4 overall, 0-1 CCL-Gold) Whitehall........................W, 27-17 Columbus Academy ..........W, 35-6 London.............................W, 41-6 Jackson ..........................L, 42-14 Whetstone......................W, 56-43

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Senior Dominic Lombardi was 46-for-106 for 741 yards and six touchdowns last season. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

lar season. It lost to Hartley 5219 in the regular-season finale for the CCL-Gold Division title. The only other returning teams to the schedule are Whitehall (27-17 win) and London (41-6 win). Bucyrus Wynford, which will play host to Ready on Oct. 2, went 11-2 last season. Lima Central Catholic was 8-3 and will represent a Knights home game Oct. 10 at Upper Arlington.

Both Wynford and Lima Central Catholic competed in Division VI, Region 20. Also on the schedule is Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, which plays host to Ready on Sept. 18 after going 13-1 a year ago. The Eagles were in Division V, Region 18. Ready was 12th in computer points in Division VI, Region 21. “Our ninth week is open as it was last year,” Cross said. “We want to play 10 games,

to 80 percent of his kickoffs went to the end zone,” rance Yates will take his place Willoughby said. “He’s really so that Miles can focus on his a great athlete. We had never duties as quarterback. tried him at punter and it took all of five minutes (for him to SPECIAL TEAMS learn it).” Yates returns to handle the THE LINEUP kicking and punting duties after Offense emerging as a weapon for the Quarterback: *Tyson Miles Bruins last season. “He’s going to be a field goal (sr., 6-0, 160) Running backs: *Conner threat from 50 yards in and 70

Holt (sr., 5-9, 165), *A.J. Houchins (jr., 5-6, 165) Receivers: *Cam Marshall (sr., 5-6, 140), *Isaiah Caldwell (sr., 5-11, 160), *Kapone Richardson (sr., 6-1, 170), Mitts Distelhorst (sr., 5-9, 170), Kam Stephens (jr., 6-5, 210), Mareo Turner (so., 6-0, 155) Linemen: *Tyler Poeschel (sr., 6-1, 295), *Michael Robinson (sr., 6-3, 285), *Mason Cullen (sr., 6-0, 260), *Shane

BRUINS FROM >> 63

Marion Harding.................W, 41-7 Loudonville......................L, 64-14 Bellaire .............................L, 30-0 *Hartley...........................L, 52-19 *League contest INSIDE THE KNIGHTS •Coach: Brian Cross, second season •Top players: Zach Baum (OL/DL), Brandan Burks (RB/LB), Nick Durbin (OL/DL), Devon Dukes (RB/LB), Patrick Jansen (OL/DL), Dominic Lombardi (QB/DB),Tristin Siemer (WR/DB), Marcus Stone (OL/DL) and Kyle Usner (OL/DL) •Key losses: Alex Eblin (TE/DL), Anthony Havens (WR/DB),Alvin Knox (LB), Connor Lancia (WR/LB/P), Seth Stock (RB/DB) and Tre Windham (OL/DL)

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SPECIAL TEAMS

Lombardi is expected to add punting to his duties and junior Leo Dunkle should be the kicker after the loss of Aiden Dulin (K) and Lancia (P) to graduation. Lancia was firstteam all-district after averaging 37.8 yards per punt. Usner is back at long snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Dominic Lombardi (sr., 6-0, 175), Austin Aiello (fr.., 5-10, 145) Running backs: Brandan Burks (jr., 5-10, 210), Donald Butts (jr., 5-10, 160), Reggie Mitchell (jr., 5-11, 212), *Devon Dukes (so., 5-10, 215), Ryan Wood (so., 6-1, 185) Receivers: *Kevin Morrison (jr., 5-11, 165), Chase Jones (so.., 5-8, 150), Christian Schell (so., 5-8, 160), *Tristin Siemer (so., 5-10, 180) Tight end: *Cade Canter (fresh., 6-3, 205) Linemen: *Zach Baum (sr., 5-11, 225), *Nick Durbin (sr., 5-11, 215), *Marcus Stone (sr., 6-0, 245), *Kyle Usner (sr., 63, 210), *Patrick Jansen (jr., 61, 225) Defense Linemen: *Stone, *Usner, Jansen, *Mitchell Linebackers: *Hunter Inks (sr., 5-9, 160), *Burks, *Ryan Spoon (so., 6-0, 180), Wood Secondary: *Lombardi, Butts, *Morrison, Jones, Schell, *Siemer Special teams Kicker: *Leo Dunkle (jr., 510, 170) Punter: *Lombardi, Dunkle Returners: *Morrison, *Dukes, *Siemer Long snapper: *Usner (*Denotes projected starter)

but the teams that wanted to Patrick Jansen. Senior Kyle Usner also will play us were a lot larger and one of them had 80 kids out in start up front. Knox was the leading rusher the (grades 10-12).” last season with 901 yards and OFFENSE nine touchdowns and Stock The loss of Knox, combined rushed for 618 yards and 15 with the losses to graduation touchdowns. Alex Eblin, who of skill position players such started at tight end and had as Anthony Havens and Con- three touchdown catches, is at nor Lancia at wide receiver and Ohio Northern. Connor Lancia, another Seth Stock at running back, means that young players likely 2015 graduate who rushed for 243 yards and started at wingwill be carrying the ball. Sophomore Devon Dukes back and linebacker, is a walkis back after rushing for 260 on at Toledo. yards and three touchdowns. DEFENSE Junior Donald Butts also should see time at tailback, with junUsner (DL) and sophomore iors Brandan Burks and Reg- Tristin Siemer (DB) are the top gie Mitchell and sophomore returnees on defense. Ryan Wood at fullback. Siemer was second on the Senior quarterback Dominic team in tackles with 46.5 and Lombardi was 46-for-106 pass- had eight pass breakups, while ing for 741 yards with six Usner had 44 tackles, four touchdowns and seven inter- sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss. julrey@thisweeknews.com ceptions. Burks, Lombardi, Morrison “I think our backfield is and Stone all are expected to going to be pretty good,” Cross be key players on both offense said. and defense. The Knights return four The biggest loss defensively players on the line who gained was 2015 graduate Alvin it requires starting experience last season Knox-Steed, who led Ready perseverance, in seniors Zach Baum, Nick in tackles with 59.5 and was self-denial, Durbin and Stone and junior first-team all-district. hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and respect for authority. Ross (sr., 6-0, 290), Curtis 5-11, 170), Houchins — VINCE LOMBARDI Secondary: *Caldwell, *DisTatum (so., 5-10, 265), Dale Phillips (jr., 5-9, 200), Corey telhorst, *Richardson, *TerSpencer (jr., 5-10, 195) rance Yates (so., 6-0, 170), Defense Miles, Turner, Marshall, Nate Linemen: *Cullen, *Robin- Hall (so., 5-8, 165) Special teams son, *Poeschel, *Tavin Jordan Kicker: *Yates (jr., 6-1, 190), Phillips, Punter: *Yates Stephens, Ross, Chris AlexanLong snapper: Ross, Spencer der (so., 5-8, 280), Cain Teague (so., 6-2, 210) (*Denotes projected starter) Linebackers: *Holt, *Spencer, *Zach Jenkins (jr., sports@thisweeknews.com

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STALLIONS

mer (sr., 5-11, 190), Ben Frye (jr., 6-3, 219), Joe Kendrick (jr., 5-10, 250), Manuel Massa (jr., 5-8, 232) Linebackers: *Griffin Grady (sr., 6-2, 203), *McKinney, Colt Whitman (sr., 5-11, 213) Secondary: Ryan Boyle (sr., 5-11, 158), Reece Partridge (sr., 5-8, 168), Adam Tonon (sr., 59, 184), Damaj Saxton (sr., 511, 164), Patrick Young (sr., 64, 180), Jack Hamilton (jr., 5-9, 168), Cal Haefke (jr., 5-11, 161) Special teams Kicker: *Ryan Simone (jr., 5-11, 154) Punter: *Stoneburner Returners: Bradford, T.J. Campbell (sr., 5-9, 141), Rothgeb, C.J. Wise (jr., 5-8, 140) Long snappers: Tonucci, Luke Crabtree (so., 6-1, 194) (*Denotes projected starter)

Headings (sr., 5-10, 209), Brady Rothgeb (sr., 6-0, 180), Casey Kirk (jr., 5-9, 177), Cam Scott (so., 5-9, 187) Receivers: John Bartman (sr., 6-0, 163), *Eric Bradford (sr., 5-7, 158), Isaac McKinney (sr., 5-11, 176), Tommy McQuaid (sr., 6-2, 185), Rothgeb, Kirk, Nico Smith-Ross (jr., 6-2, 164), Caleb Stoneburner (jr., 6-4, 181), Ibn Williamson (jr., 5-10, 161), Tight ends: Jack Dorenkott (jr., 6-0, 190), Griffin Hoak (so., 6-0, 200) Linemen: Kwasi Amponsah (sr., 5-11, 271), Ryan Forbush (sr., 6-1, 244), *Alex Gellerstedt (sr., 6-7, 273), Scott Griffin (sr., 6-0, 248), Moe Arman (jr., 6-1, 308), Cole Tonucci (jr., 61, 270) Defense Linemen: Ryan Beardsley (sr., 6-1, 208), Addison Zim- shennen@thisweeksports.com

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last season with 1,031 yards and six touchdowns, and senior Austin Andrews, a Michigan State recruit at defensive back, rushed for 819 yards and 10 touchdowns. Senior Ryan Peaks ran for 457 yards and should see time at both running back and slot receiver. Senior Danny Barren leads an experienced line that also includes senior Nick Carter and junior Drew McLuckie as returning starters. Brian Dytko, a first-team all-district lineman who made the ThisWeek Super 25 last season, also is playing at John Carroll.

DEFENSE

Andrews, who has been a key player since his sophomore season, is poised to again lead the defense at cornerback. Also back are seniors Nick Smith (LB), Shawn Snyder (DB) and Hankins (DB) and juniors Luke Barber (DL) and Ryan Corkrean (LB). Another key returnee is Derrius Mullins (DL), who has Division I offers from Cincinnati, Kent State, Toledo and Ohio

University. heading into his junior season. Alton (so., 6-5, 165) Tight ends: Luke Barber (jr., 6-1, 210), Ryan Corkrean (jr., 6-2, 210) SPECIAL TEAMS Linemen: *Darren Barren (sr., 6-2, Competing in the preseason to replace 240), *Nick Carter (sr., 6-0, 320), *Kendall second-team all-district kicker Adam Pannell (sr., 5-9, 210), Joey DeSantis (jr., Acquista were junior Dominic DiMaccio 6-2, 250), *Drew McLuckie (jr., 6-3, 210), and Rob Landis. Omar Vargas (jr., 5-11, 220) The Stallions also have a new punter Defense in junior Ian Cook after DeLozier served Linemen: *Carter, *Barber, *McLuckie, in that role last year. Andrews, Hankins and junior Jared Ty Smith (sr., 5-11, 200), *Derrius Mullins Noble provide athleticism to the return (jr., 6-5, 315) Linebackers: *Corkrean, *Nick Smith game. (sr., 5-11, 185), *Patrick Moriarty (jr., 6THE LINEUP 2, 235), *Van Fossen Offense Secondary: *Andrews, Hankins, *SnyQuarterbacks: Chris Stoll (jr., 6-3, 230), der, *Yinger, Arnold, Noble Dylan Todd (jr., 6-1, 170), Paxon Hunter Special teams (so., 5-8, 155), Ty Van Fossen (so., 6-0, Kicker: Rob Landis (so., 5-11, 150), 175) Running backs: *Austin Andrews (sr., Dominic DiMaccio (jr., 5-8, 150) Punter: *Ian Cook (jr., 6-0, 200), 6-0, 180), Jake Gilmore (sr., 5-8, 180), *Darren Hankins (sr., 5-11, 170), Drake McNally Returners: *Andrews, *Hankins, Yinger (sr., 5-11, 170), Alonzo Booth (jr., *Noble 6-0, 235) Long snapper: *Stull Receivers: *Ryan Peaks (sr., 5-9, 155), (*Denotes projected starter) Shawn Snyder (sr., 6-1, 185), Joe Arnold (jr., 5-9, 150), Chris McNally (jr., 6-0, 160), Jared Noble (jr., 5-9, 175), Tanner julrey@thisweeknews.com

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“(Going deep into the playoffs) was huge,” Andrews said. “You always dream about a championship, and for us seeing it and tasting (the playoffs) was amazing. It brings the best out of you. You have to bring your ‘A’ game because you’re going against guys with scholarships.” He sees no reason why the Stallions, who have been to the playoffs 23 times, including 18 in a row from 1994-2011, can’t reach those heights again. “At our school, tradition can never be underestimated,” Andrews said. “I saw a lot of the brotherhood that you need last year.” julrey@thisweeknews.com

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LICKINC COUNTY LEAGUE

Spotlight

Baughman not showing signs of slowing By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Elijah Brechbill didn’t hesitate when describing longtime Licking Valley High School football coach Randy Baughman. “Coach Baughman is the face of Licking Valley football,” said the senior, who plays wide receiver and defensive back. “He’s always been. Growing up around here and being a part of the program, it’s great having him as a coach. Baughman hasn’t always been the coach at Licking Valley, of course. It only seems like it. Entering his 34th year leading the Panthers, he has a 27688-1 record with his alma mater. He has led the Panthers to 15 postseason appearances, including a pair of state runner-up finishes. In 2001, they lost to Kenton 40-13 in the Division IV final. In 2007, they lost to Big Walnut 17-10 in the Division III title game. “You hear so many negative things about kids being lazy and so on, but we have some great kids,” said Baughman, who graduated from Licking Valley in 1971. “They might have more ways to entertain themselves today, but we have a core group of kids who want to work hard and commit themselves. They want to be disciplined if it makes for a better football team.” The Hanover native graduated from West Liberty (W.Va.) State University, just east of Wheeling. He became a social studies teacher, starting his career at Midvale Indian Valley North, a school that merged with Indian Valley

Inside the division LCL-BIG SCHOOL 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Granville 3-1 8-3 Licking Valley 3-1 8-3 Watkins Memorial 2-2 8-3 Licking Heights 1-3 6-4 Lakewood 1-3 2-8 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Oct. 2 Licking Valley at Lakewood Watkins Memorial at Licking Heights Oct. 9 Granville at Licking Valley Lakewood at Watkins Memorial Oct. 16 Watkins Memorial at Granville Licking Heights at Lakewood Oct. 22 Licking Valley at Watkins Memorial Oct. 23 Granville at Licking Heights Oct. 30 Lakewood at Granville Licking Heights at Licking Valley

Randy Baughman is 276-88-1 as he enters his 34th season at Licking Valley.“You hear so many negative things about kids being lazy and so on, but we have some great kids.” THISWEEKSPORTS FILE PHOTO

South to become Gnadenhutten Indian Valley. “I had a lot of high school coaches who really seemed to enjoy coaching,” Baughman said. “I didn’t see myself as a teacher, but at that time, the only coaches were teachers. I knew I had to be a teacher if I was going to coach.” Baughman was an assistant for six years before getting his first head coaching position

with Indian Valley North as the Big Blue went 6-4 in his only season before he made his return home. “I had some great coaches who had a big influence on me and I wanted to come back and do the same,” Baughman said. “One of them was Dick Torbert, who was basketball coach when I was in high school. Another was Larry Chapman, who was one of my football

coaches, as well as John Krichbaum, who was my head football coach. “When I was here (as student at Licking Valley), we only won four (football) games my senior year, but we were more of a basketball school. We had big battles with Granville (in basketball).” Throughout the years, Baughman has accumulated a wealth of football knowledge.

Licking Valley

Panthers out to rediscover ‘toughness’ By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Toughness has been a characteristic of the Licking Valley High School football team. But the Panthers have not lived up to their own lofty expectations in the past four seasons, missing the postseason in 2011 and 2012 and losing at home in the opening round of the Division IV, Region 13 playoffs the last two years. Licking Valley lost to Steubenville 2114 in 2013 and to Zanesville Maysville 30-7 last season, when the Panthers finished 8-3 overall. “Our coaches have us breaking huddle with ‘Tough on three!’ – which is important,” senior offensive lineman Braylan Taylor said. “We need to get back to week 12 and win that first round (playoff game). We have to come out like we want to be there.” The Panthers won their second consecutive championship in the LCL-Big School Division, which is now called the LCLBuckeye Division. They finished 3-1 to tie Granville for the title ahead of thirdplace Watkins Memorial (2-2). August 27, 2015

“Toughness is important because it always gets you up when you knock a player down,” said senior Elijah Brechbill, who was second-team all-district and second-team all-league last season while playing wide receiver and defensive back. “You definitely want to be aggressive, which is something you can’t do in a lot of sports. I like to makes contact and go out and make plays.” Randy Baughman begins his 35th season leading the program. He was pleased with his team’s first scrimmage Aug. 11 against visiting Thornville Sheridan, another tough, hard-hitting program nestled in the middle of farming communities. “We were fairly aggressive and we had a lot of kids creating competition,” he said. “There were kids out there battling and there wasn’t any standing around. That experience will go a way toward giving us more depth.” Baughman said the Panthers might have been happy to reach the postseason with a young team last season, but just making week 11 should not be enough for this year’s edition. “It’s always a goal to win a league title,

and then you can look at the next goal (making the playoffs),” said Baughman, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Dresden Tri-Valley. “I think last year, we were just satisfied with getting in (the postseason). Maybe the goals need to be set higher this year.”

OFFENSE

The Panthers line up in a spread formation with seven returning starters, including Brechbill at wide receiver and Taylor at guard. Other starters back are senior wide receiver Tommy Klein (honorable mention all-league), senior tight end Luke Kozlowski, senior running back Garrett Robinson (second-team all-district and first-team all-league), senior tackle Jaqui VanMeter (second-team all-district and first-team all-league) and sophomore running back Bailey Hayden (second-team all-league). Robinson has been hampered by a shoulder injury. Another starter, senior guard Noah Ourant (second-team all-league), who also played on the defensive line, is out with a knee injury suffered during a pick-

PANTHERS >> 89

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Senior lineman Brylan Taylor said his coach almost has a sixth sense when it comes to the sport. “Coach Baughman has so much knowledge that it gives us an extra edge,” Taylor said. “He seems to know what’s going to happen on the field before it happens. It’s amazing.” Baughman was athletics director for 15 years at Licking Valley before retiring in 2011. Over time, his coaching career with the Panthers has become a family affair. “I’ve coached the sons of some of the players who played for me,” he said. “Last season, we had six sons of former players on the team, which is the most yet. I haven’t coached any grandsons of former players, but I’m sure that will happen soon enough.”

LCL-SMALL SCHOOL 2014 STANDINGS Team League Overall Johnstown 4-0 8-3 Heath 3-1 5-5 Newark Catholic 2-2 5-5 Utica 1-3 2-8 Northridge 0-4 1-9 2015 LEAGUE SCHEDULE Oct. 2 Heath at Newark Catholic Johnstown at Northridge Oct. 8 Newark Catholic at Johnstown Oct. 9 Utica at Heath Oct. 16 Northridge at Heath Newark Catholic at Utica Oct. 23 Johnstown at Utica Northridge at Newark Catholic Oct. 30 Heath at Johnstown Utica at Northridge

His career went full circle two years ago when the Panthers moved from the MSLOhio Division to the LCL, the league in which he played and coached until it was disbanded in 1991. But Licking Valley returned to the league with a flurry, winning titles both seasons in the LCL-Big School Division, which is now known as the LCL-Buckeye Division. “That (LCL return) has been a good thing,” he said. “It’s what we used to have, even though it’s a little different. There’s a difference in school size compared to what it was before, but the good outweighs the bad. The gates are up, the travel is down and the revenue is up. It’s good, and not just for football.” shennen@thisweeknews.com

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Granville

Watkins Memorial

Warriors out to handle expectations By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Not many in central Ohio expected big things from the Watkins Memorial High School football team last season. But the Warriors went 8-3 overall and qualified for the Division II, Region 5 playoffs, where they lost to Worthington Kilbourne 32-9 in the first round. With 26 letterwinners returning, expectations will be high this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no doubt about it. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard it from the community and other (Licking County League) coaches that we are considered the favorite, the team to beat,â&#x20AC;? said eighthyear coach Jeff Severino, whose team opens Aug. 28 at home against Whetstone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true that we played well last year when we were the underdog, but now weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to see how these kids handle the high expectations. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a senior-dominated team with 23 or 24 seniors who, for the most part, will play on one side of the football, so weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to develop some depth early, in scrimmages and in early-season games. Injuries are always big and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re difficult to avoid. We need three guys at every position because we also want to use rotations at some spots.â&#x20AC;? The Warriors relied on a sturdy defense in their run to the playoffs, allowing 11.3 points per game during the reg-

Winning first playoff game is Acesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; goal By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

ular season. They allowed more than 14 points only twice during the regular season â&#x20AC;&#x201C; in losses to Granville (40-30) and Lakewood (29-28). â&#x20AC;&#x153;We only lost three players on defense to graduation and we also have most everyone back on offense, so we should improve on both sides of the ball,â&#x20AC;? Severino said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The kids are a year older, bigger and stronger. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a lot of speed, talent and experience.â&#x20AC;?

OFFENSE

One of the biggest changes is the orchestrator of the slot/veer offense, as senior Westley Brandon replaces Mike Ford at quarterback. Ford made first-team all-LCL Big School and honorable mention all-district last year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Westley has experience and lots of talent surrounding him,â&#x20AC;? Severino said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The biggest thing we need him to do is step up and be a leader. Bad things are going to happen on the field, so the test is how you react to that. I think that was one of Mike Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best attributes. He not only made plays, but he kept the team together when things werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t going well.â&#x20AC;? The Warriors return Kaleb Goad at running back. He will be joined in the backfield by junior Terry Lowery, the only expected starter on offense who is not a senior. Watkins Memorial has a handful of fast, elusive slotbacks

Corey Hare will play linebacker while also handling punting and kicking duties for the Warriors. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

in Evan Caniff, Robert Speaks and Garth Medors and strong wide receivers in twins Alex Miles and Rex Miles, as well as Bobby Broomfield. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got plenty of outside speed with Caniff, Speaks and Medors,â&#x20AC;? Severino said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caniff is the top sprinter in (Licking County) in track. Alex Miles is probably our top receiver. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got good hands.â&#x20AC;? Tackle Josh Hickin (6-foot6, 290 pounds) should anchor the line, which has four returnees.

DEFENSE

Seniors Cameron Johnson, Zach Jenkins and Alex Miles

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are back to lead the 4-2-5 defensive scheme after earning alldistrict honors last season. Johnson, a safety, was firstteam all-district. Alex Miles, an end, was second team and Jenkins, a tackle, was honorable mention. Johnson and Alex Miles also were second-team all-league. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Johnson led the team in interceptions and Jenkins does a great job at tackle and is just a load up front,â&#x20AC;? Severino said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think with Alex Miles, Brandon Boyd and Kyle Clark up front, we have a strong line that will allow our linebackers to

WARRIORS >> 76

The tradition continues for the Granville High School football program. The Blue Aces again have a strong quarterback and a handful of talented wide receivers and will be looking to capture another league championship and playoff berth. Last season, Granville went 8-3 overall and 3-1 in the LCLBig School Division, tying Licking Valley for first. It marked the Blue Acesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fourth consecutive league title, which set a program record. They also qualified for the playoffs for the fifth time in eight seasons and the sixth time overall. One constant Granville would like to change is its early playoff exits. The Blue Aces fell to 0-6 in postseason play last year with a 65-14 loss to Athens in a Division III, Region 9 first-round game. It didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help that 11 starters for Granville that night were freshmen or sophomores, as the Blue Aces were depleted by injuries. The teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playoff record is the impetus for loftier expectations this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our goals donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t change, but weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hopeful that we can reach the last one,â&#x20AC;? seventh-year coach J.R. Wait said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We want to win the LCL, qualify for the playoffs and advance. We keep knocking on the door, but we havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t busted through for a playoff victory yet. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will say that we are much

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further ahead of where we were last year at this time. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a long time since weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been this ready to go into a season. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got some very familiar faces and we had a great summer. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re gelling already and I think thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s due to the amount of work we put in and due to familiarity that comes with 21 lettermen returning. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re still a young team overall, but we have so many guys with experience. We have a number of freshmen who will play. They went 16-0 in middle school, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obviously a talented group.â&#x20AC;?

OFFENSE

Senior Kyle Zies has returned for his second season at quarterback in the multiple spread offense. Despite a running game that wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t overly productive due to injuries, Zies completed 105 of 188 passes for 1,323 yards and 15 touchdowns in the regular season and was named first-team all-league and special mention all-district. Wait thinks Zies, who threw 14 interceptions a year ago, is ready for a breakout season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He had a terrific summer and I really feel good about his progress and timing with the receivers,â&#x20AC;? Wait said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going through his reads well and he has a number of very good targets. I also believe weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be more productive running the football.â&#x20AC;? Sophomore Michael Reed had 32 receptions for 444 yards and five touchdowns last year and was first-team all-district and all-league, and junior Jack Peterson had 17 catches for 204 yards. Seniors Thaddeus Winston and Drew Dilger also will start in the four-receiver sets. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Those guys have a lot of confidence and big-play ability,â&#x20AC;? Wait said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got at least seven or eight receivers who are dependable.â&#x20AC;? Freshman Brandon Haley is expected to get the nod at running back when the season opens Aug. 28 at home against Thornville Sheridan. Senior Cole Jacquith also will get work in the backfield and Wait said it is possible that Reed or Winston could line up behind Zies at some point. Four linemen who were postseason starters have returned in junior Nick Kurek and sophomores Nate Miller, David Parkinson and Grant Porterfield. Miller was secondteam all-league and Porterfield was honorable mention.

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LICKING C OUNTY L EAGUE

Licking Heights

Hornets to mix more passing into game plan By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Licking Heights High School football team is not going to eschew its traditional meat-and-potatoes offensive approach this season, but the Hornets are planning to mix in some appetizers, vegetables and maybe even an occasional dessert. “We have a second-year quarterback in Gabe Caldwell and we’ve got many talented playmakers, so we want to balance the field and spread out the defense,” 10th-year coach Darren Waters said. “We’re still going to get in our stack-I, but we’re also going to go from the spread and throw the football. “We’re not going to sling it all over the field or anything, but we’re going to take advantage of our weapons. We have some true receivers and we have some size on the perimeter. We

think we can prevent defenses from flooding the box. We want them to defend the entire field.” The Hornets attempted to phase in that approach last season, but reverted back to power football during a three-game losing streak that cost them a chance at a third consecutive league title and a third consecutive postseason berth. Licking Heights was 6-1 before losses to playoff teams Granville (26-21), Licking Valley (26-9) and Watkins Memorial (10-7). The Hornets capped the season by beating playoffbound Johnstown 9-6 to finish 6-4 overall. They were 1-3 in the LCL-Big School Division. “We had more time to work on the wrinkles in the offense and add our passing game this summer,” said Waters, who has 25 letterwinners back. “We learned and grew during (7-on7) passing scrimmages. We were tested, but I think we’re

going to be able to get this done. If we can be multi-dimensional, it could really give our run game a boost as well.” The first test is Aug. 28 when Westland visits for the opener. The Cougars, who compete in the OCC-Central Division, are new to the schedule along with St. Charles and Newark Catholic. The Hornets dropped Mifflin, Johnstown and Northridge from the schedule.

OFFENSE

Senior Adrien Hammonds will start at one running back position with Ke’Shawn Moore and Maurice Edmondson splitting time at the other. London Pearson had been the starter alongside Hammond but he recently moved to the Youngstown area. Senior Nate Thacker and junior Brandon Smith will be at receivers. But Waters said the Hornets’

backfield depth means juniors Josiah Harrell and Tosh Hayes also should see playing time. “We’ve preached competition every day since January,” Waters said. “Everything we’ve done we’ve made it a competition – conditioning, lifting, attendance, grade-point averages. We even had a closest-tothe-pin golf-like competition, using the goal posts. We want to compete on every snap this year, and it definitely has carried over into practices with competition for every position.” Seniors Branden Edmondson, Austin Dulaney and Mina Zaky and junior Iman Ragland are other receivers expected see action, while tight ends include senior Nick Murphy, junior Josh Martin and sophomore Christopher Thomas. The line will be led by seniors Jake Langkamp (tackle) and Zach Sims (center), who both were honorable mention

all-district. Sims also was hon- depth as we move along,” orable mention all-league. They Waters said. will be joined on the line by senior Jacob Dalton (guard) and SPECIAL TEAMS juniors Chance Canady (guard) Senior Cameron Christian is and Jordan Coulter (tackle). back as kicker and Thacker will be the punter, with Hammond DEFENSE doing the long snapping. Junior L.A. Kelly, an honorAmong those expected to able mention all-district pick, return kickoffs and punts are and senior Cameron Malicoate Thacker, Pearson, Moore and return as outside linebackers to Maurice Edmondson. lead the 4-4 defense. The Hornets expect to have THE LINEUP six two-way starters. Sims and Offense Murphy are back at ends and Quarterbacks: *Gabe CaldCanady returns at tackle, where well (sr.), Nate Thacker (sr.) he will be joined by Coulter. Running backs: *Adrien Thacker (S) returns in the secondary and Smith (LB) is Hammonds (sr.), Ke’Shawn Moore (jr.), Josiah Harrell (jr.), the other two-way starter. Neff will be the other inside HORNETS >> 79 linebacker and Moore, Edmondson and Branden Edmondson will split time at the other corner. “With so many guys playing both ways, we’re going to have to stay healthy and work on our

FOOTBALL is

Lakewood

Win energizes Lancers’ offseason work

By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Lakewood High School football program was re-energized last season and is hoping to continue building on the strides it made. Although the Lancers won just two games, one of those was a 29-28 decision over playoff-bound Watkins Memorial. And the fact that it happened in the regular-season finale provided a spark that remains hot entering the 2015 season that kicks off Aug. 28 against visiting Amanda-Clearcreek. “It absolutely propelled us into the offseason with a new

desire and passion,” secondyear coach Craig Conley said. “It drove our entire offseason. We have plenty of guys back who started in that game. I think that win capped a good season in terms of building interest in football within the school and the community. “I don’t think it’s a coincidence that we ended last season with 44 players and we’re starting this season with 62. We’ve only got eight seniors out of those 62. Now we’ve got to keep building and get the young kids involved so that they stick with the program.” The Lancers’ other win was 33-26 over Northridge in the

seventh week of the season. But victories alone can’t measure the turnaround, as the Lancers also played well in setbacks to Newark Catholic (146) and Granville (21-6). “We had some blowout losses in there, and we didn’t play very well in the first three weeks, but we were implementing a new offense and a new defense,” Conley said. “There definitely was a learning curve. But we began learning from mistakes and we grew. “We preached accountability in the offseason, from grades to weight room and being accountable for your teammates and school, not just yourself.

These kids are maturing and it’s neat to step back as coaches and watch the growth. We’ve just got to continue moving it forward and see it pay dividends.”

OFFENSE

Senior Cole Glaub returns at quarterback to lead the spread offense. Glaub, who also plays in the secondary on defense, is the lone returning letterwinner who earned postseason honors a year ago. He was an honorable mention pick in the LCL-Big School Division and on the Division III alldistrict team. “We moved him to quarterback from receiver last year

because he brought a new dynamic to the quarterback position and we could tell he was a leader,” Conley said. “When times get tough, others follow his lead. He’s a gifted athlete and good leader.” Glaub has a slew of receivers to throw to this season, as senior Austin Myers returned and is joined by juniors Cam Brooks and Cam Downs. Brooks is 6-foot-6, and Conley said Downs is a tremendous athlete with good hands. Sophomore Chase Shaffer is expected to be the featured running back, and the line is

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Johnstown-Monroe

End of last season keeping Johnnies focused By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Things got away from the Johnstown-Monroe High School football team as it entered the final two games of an otherwise standout season. The Johnnies had won eight of their first nine games, but ended the regular season with a 9-6 setback to Licking Heights, then lost to host Steubenville 35-22 in the opening round of the Division IV, Region 13 playoffs to finish 83 overall. Trent Coe said those losses drove his teammates during the offseason and provided a lesson that they must heed in 2015. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were thinking too many steps ahead,â&#x20AC;? said Coe, a defen-

sive back who had 55 tackles with one interception last season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to stay focused and be ready to play.â&#x20AC;? Senior defensive lineman Jonny Chatfield, who was second-team all-district with 73 tackles, seven sacks and one interception, is taking the same attitude. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to take things one step at a time, which was something we werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t doing at the end of the year,â&#x20AC;? said Chatfield, who also will see time on the offensive line. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to keep a positive attitude and work hard in all areas of the game.â&#x20AC;? Coach Mike Carter said his team had a unfortunate end to a season in which they went 40 to win the LCL-Small School Division, which is now called

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the LCL-Cardinal Division. Newark Catholic (3-1) was runAt a glance ner-up as Johnstown won its Licking Heights....................L, 9-6 2015 SCHEDULE first LCL title since 1979 and Aug. 28....................vs. Chillicothe PLAYOFFS also advanced to the postseaSept. 4...............vs. Fairfield Union Steubenville.....................L, 35-22 son for the third time in four Sept. 11 .............at Buckeye Valley *League contest seasons. Sept. 18 .......vs. Watkins Memorial INSIDE THE JOHNNIES â&#x20AC;&#x153;(Losing the final two games) Sept. 25.......................at Granville â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Mike Carter, 14th season *Oct. 2 ......................at Northridge â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Cody Blevins (TE/DL), was disappointing in that stand*Oct. 8 ............vs. Newark Catholic Nate Brown (FB/LB), Hayden Bullard point,â&#x20AC;? said Carter, who begins *Oct. 16................at Licking Valley (RB/WR/LB),Alex Catalogna (OL/DL), his 14th season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud *Oct. 23 ............................at Utica Jonny Chatfield (OL/DL), Trent Coe of the way the young men Oct. 30 ...........................vs. Heath (WR/DB), Jeff Nogaj (OL/DL), Clay played to reach the playoffs, but Psurny (WR/LB/K), Brandon Siegfried 2014 RESULTS they wanted to go further. We (8-3 overall, 4-0 LCL-Small School) (DE) and Cody Workman (QB/P) have good senior leadership that Chillicothe.......................W, 28-14 â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Brendan Barasch worked hard in the offseason Fairfield Union...................W, 26-0 (WR/DB), Ethan Clift (B), Eli Dowell Lakewood.........................W, 37-6 (RB/LB), Cody Farley (RB), Zack to make sure we get back to the Granville .........................W, 21-21 Fleming (WR/LB), Matt Hollis playoffs. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of our Licking Valley...................L, 21-13 (WR/DB), Mitch Montgomery (OL/DL), strengths, the willingness to *Northridge.......................W, 10-0 Marcus Nogaj (TE/DL), Joey Norris work hard. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve kept a pos*Newark Catholic ..............W, 10-0 (OL/DL), Jake Taylor (OL/LB), Cody itive attitude and had fun *Utica ...............................W, 35-6 Thompson (WR/LB) and Matt Walthroughout the preseason, and *Heath..............................W, 27-7 ton (OL) that will go long way toward being successful.â&#x20AC;? Chatfield said senior leadership was crucial in preparation any Service Repair for the season. Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 â&#x20AC;&#x153;As a senior you have a lot (614) 784-0800 more of a leadership role,â&#x20AC;? he See our ad on pg. 91 said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have to lead the team in the right direction and we have to work to get better every- Workman returns at quarter- and running back Cody Farley back along with bookend sen- from last season,â&#x20AC;? Carter said. day.â&#x20AC;? iors Alex Catalogna (6-4, 320; â&#x20AC;&#x153;But Cody Workman coming OFFENSE special mention all-district) and back at quarterback and Alex The Johnniesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; unbalanced Iformation will have a new look Jeff Nogaj (6-5, 320) at tack- Catalogna and Jeff Nogaj on the line will be vital to our after the graduation of Cody les. Workman was honorable teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offensive success.â&#x20AC;? Farley. The 5-foot-11, 205The Johnnies are looking for pound running back rushed for mention all-district, rushing for 1,932 yards and 21 touchdowns 977 yards and six touchdowns Farleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s replacement, but still on 288 carries to earn first-team on 135 carries and completing have a wide-open race for the all-state honors as well as being 20 of 38 passes for 352 yards spot. Those in the hunt include named district and league Player with five touchdowns and four seniors Nate Brown, Hayden Bullard, Coe and Cole Wasierof the Year. The three-year interceptions. Seniors Hayden Bullard and ski, junior Andrew Sayer and starter had career rushing totals of 5,379 yards and 59 touch- Trent Coe rotated at slotback sophomore Jared Orders. last season, and seniors Richie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for someone downs in 861 carries. But the Johnnies have three Carey and Trevor Kennedy who is tough and durable, and is also a total team player,â&#x20AC;? starters back on offense and four alternated at wide receiver. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We lost four offensive line- Carter said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They have to be more players who rotated into the starting lineup. Junior Cody men, a fullback (Eli Dowell) able to go out and fight for those

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extra yards.â&#x20AC;?

DEFENSE

Seven starters return in the Johnniesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 4-4 defensive alignment, led by a standout front. Catalogna and Nogaj rotated at one tackle with Chatfield at the other. Senior Cody Blevins (59 tackles) and junior Brandon Siegfried (48 tackles, 5 sacks) are back as ends. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need to replace four of the seven positions behind the defensive line,â&#x20AC;? Carter said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The battle for these positions will be crucial early on.â&#x20AC;? Brown (94 tackles, 15 for loss, 8 sacks) returns at linebacker along with both Bullard (89 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception) and Coe at defensive back. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We have some good, experienced players back on defense,â&#x20AC;? Coe said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But we also have a lot who are playing where they havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t played before. We have to stay focused and keep working to get better.â&#x20AC;?

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Trent Coe (sr. 5-10, 155), *Cody Workman (jr. 6-0, 180) Running backs: Nate Brown (sr., 6-0, 200), Hayden Bullard (sr., 5-11, 150), Coe, Cole Wasierski (sr., 5-9, 165), Andrew Sayer (jr., 5-11, 185), Jared Orders (so., 6-0, 180) Receivers: Richie Carey (sr., 6-2, 180), Trevor Kennedy (sr., 5-10, 165), Clay Psurny (sr., 510, 160), Hunter Alley (jr., 64, 195), Kyle Carpenter (jr., 62, 190), Jesse Farley (jr., 5-9,

JOHNNIES >> 82

WARRIORS FROM >> 74

make plays.â&#x20AC;? Corey Hare and Terrial Hitchings are the linebackers. Joining Johnson in the secondary will be Logan Morrison, Cole Nixon, Rex Miles and Broomfield. Rex Miles, who was honorable mention all-district, is moving from end to strong safety.

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Hare returns as punter and place-kicker after being named second-team all-league last year. Rex Miles is the long snapper and Medors, Caniff and Broomfield are expected to return punts and kickoffs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Corey Hare is an absolute weapon for us and will help us change field possession,â&#x20AC;? Severino said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He played a big role and really assisted our defense last year.â&#x20AC;?

THE LINEUP

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Offense Quarterback: *Westley Brandon (sr., 6-3, 195)

Running backs: *Kaleb Goad (sr., 5-10, 180), *Terry Lowery At a glance (jr., 5-10, 170) Heath..............................W, 24-14 2015 SCHEDULE Receivers: *Evan Caniff (sr., Aug. 28....................vs. Whetstone *Licking Heights................W, 10-7 5-9, 170), *Alex Miles (sr., 6Sept. 4 ............vs. Aylmer (Ontario) *Lakewood ......................L, 29-28 3, 200), *Rex Miles (sr., 6-3, PLAYOFFS East Elgin 190), Bobby Broomfield (sr., Sept. 11 ..........................at Mifflin Worthington Kilbourne........L, 32-9 6-2, 180), Garth Medors (jr., 5Sept. 18 ...................at Johnstown *League contest Sept. 25 ...........................vs. Utica INSIDE THE WARRIORS 10, 160), Robert Speaks (sr., 5*Oct. 2 ...............at Licking Heights â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Jeff Severino, eighth sea11, 185) *Oct. 9 .....................vs. Lakewood son Linemen: *Marvin Bennett *Oct. 16 .......................at Granville â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Evan Caniff (SB), Kaleb (sr., 6-0, 215), *Josh Hickin (sr., *Oct. 22...............vs. Licking Valley Goad (RB), Corey Hare (LB/K/P), sr., 6-6, 290), *Jack May (sr., Oct. 31.............at Newark Catholic Cameron Johnson (DB), Josh Hickin 5-11, 245), *Thomas Smedley (OT), Zach Jenkins (DT), Jack May 2014 RESULTS III (sr., 6-2, 245), *Nick Wuer(8-3 overall, 2-2 LCL-Big School) (OL), Garth Medors (SB), Alex Miles stl (sr., 6-1, 225) Briggs...............................W, 27-6 (WR/DE), Rex Miles (WR/DB) and Alymer East Elgin ..............W, 49-0 Robert Speaks (SB) Defense Mifflin ...............................W, 33-0 â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Drew Burgess (OL), Linemen: *Brandon Boyd Utica.................................W, 25-8 Brett Copeland (LB), Mike Ford (QB), (sr., 6-2, 220), *Kyle Clark (jr., Newark Catholic................W, 10-3 Taven Jenkins (DB), Charles John5-10, 205), *Zach Jenkins (sr., *Granville.........................L, 40-30 son (DB), Nathan Miller (OL/DL) and 6-2, 270), *A. Miles *Licking Valley.....................W, 9-7 Cameron Smith (DB) Linebackers: *Corey Hare (sr., 6-0, 190), Terrial Hitch$ ings (sr., 5-11, 215) on Lennox Furnace & AC Secondary: *Cameron Johnreplacement system son (sr., 6-0, 170), *Logan MorNot valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All rison (sr., 5-9, 170), *Cole or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 (614) 784-0800 Nixon (jr., 5-11, 175), *BroomSee our ad on pg. 91 field, *R. Miles Special teams Kicker: *Hare Returners: *Broomfield, Long snapper: *R. Miles Punter: *Hare *Caniff, *Medors (*Denotes projected starter)

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Heath

Bulldogs raise expectations after last season By BRAD EMERINE THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Coming off a 2013 season in which it went 2-8, the Heath High School football team rebounded to finish 5-5 overall a year ago. Even with that improvement, however, it was a season that could have turned out even much better, according to coach Mark Collier. Four of the losses were to playoff teams, and Collier said going 2-2 in those contests likely would have put the Bulldogs in contention for the Division IV, Region 13 playoffs. “We lost to Granville 21-12 in the second week and lost a tough one to Licking Valley (42-36) in three overtimes the following week,” said Collier, who is entering his 15th season. “We thought we still had a chance to make it until after the Watkins Memorial game in week 8 (a 24-14 loss). We had sustained some injuries, and then we lost to Johnstown (277) for the LCL-Small School championship the next week.” Heath finished 3-1 in the league to place second. The biggest reason for the turnaround was improved play on defense. The Bulldogs allowed 19.1 points per game, down from 46.3 in 2013. Heath allowed 52 points or more six times in 2013, but the most the Bulldogs allowed last season was in a 47-13 loss to Licking Heights. “We really worked hard on defense and (defensive coordinator) Tim Ward got those guys moving to the ball quicker,” Collier said. “We stressed putting our kids in situations where they could succeed. “This year we’ve got several sophomores on defense, so we lack a little experience there. But they’re very athletic. It’s just a matter of how quickly they adjust to playing varsity

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.......vs. Warsaw River View Sept. 4..........at Marengo Highland Sept. 11 ......................at Granville Sept. 18..............vs. Licking Valley Sept. 25 ............at Licking Heights *Oct. 3 .............at Newark Catholic *Oct. 9.............................vs. Utica *Oct. 16...................vs. Northridge Oct. 23 ....................vs. Lakewood *Oct. 30 ...................at Johnstown 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 3-1 LCL-Small School) Bloom-Carroll .................W, 31-30 Granville..........................L, 21-12 Licking Valley.........L, 42-36 (3 OT) Licking Heights................L, 47-13 Lakewood.......................W, 37-11 * Newark Catholic ...........W, 17-16

*Utica ...............................W, 27-0 Watkins Memorial............L, 24-14 *Johnstown.......................L, 27-7 *Northridge.......................W, 49-0 *League contest INSIDE THE BULLDOGS •Coach: Mark Collier, 15th season •Top players: Aric Adams (WR/CB), Daulton Brown (OT/LB), Tyler Karr (LB), Aaron Latiolais (QB/FS), Adryn McCoy (RB), Simon Romine (WR), Elijah Senior (G/DT) and Kyle Yoho (OT/DE) •Key losses: Billy Beistel (DB), Donny Beistel (FB/LB), Robbie Brown (C/DE), Tyler Felumlee (G/DT), Jackson Kaiser (WR), Bobby Kazar (WR), Camron Romine (TB/OLB) and Isaiah Young (OLB)

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returns at quarterback. He is one of four starters back offensively along with seniors Kyle Yoho (tackle) and Elijah Senior (guard) and junior Daulton Brown (tackle). “Despite that, we have upperclassmen who are experienced, throughout the offense,” Collier said. “We’ve got juniors or seniors across the line, at tight end, in the backfield and at wideouts. We’ve got a fullback, Nick Lines, who was an all-state track athlete, and Adryn McCoy started two games last year (at halfback). Tyler Karr has experience at quarterback, so we could get (Latiolais) some handoffs, too.” Dillon Gemmell and Alex Bradley will be the newcomers up front, with Avery Hogue at tight end. OFFENSE Simon Romine is the only Senior Aaron Latiolais, who sophomore expected to see sigwas first-team all-league and nificant time on offense, barhonorable mention all-district, ring injuries. He will start at

full time. If they do, we’re going to have a good season.” Heath opens at home on Friday, Aug. 28 against Warsaw River View, which replaces Bloom-Carroll on the schedule. Marengo Highland, which plays host to the Bulldogs on Sept. 4, has replaced Watkins Memorial. “I believe we have the ability to beat every team on our schedule, but every team on our schedule is capable of beating us, too,” Collier said. “It’s all about who plays mistakefree football that game. We have a group of kids that will give us a chance in every game. The goal is to win them all, one at a time, win the LCL and make the playoffs. Four teams (in the LCL) made it last year. Why not us?”

wideout along with senior Aric Adams. Senior Rahli Khaliq and sophomore Treyton McCoy also will see action at receiver. “Romine runs good routes and has the best hands on the team,” Collier said. “He’s very athletic, but we’ll see how things go with the bright lights shining on Fridays.”

DEFENSE

The Bulldogs’ linebackers will be young, with three sophomores expected to start alongside Brown, a third-year starter who was honorable mention all-league last year. Karr will get the nod at the other inside position, with Andrae Manning and Brock Williams on the outside. “Daulton Brown started as a freshman and our defense took its lumps that year, but he has experience and will be a leader inside,” Collier said. “We’ve got athletic sophomores in there and we’ll see how well they can handle the emotional ups and downs. “We’ve got an experienced line that should help keep them free, and I really like our experience in the secondary.” Up front are three seniors in Senior at tackle and Yoho and Tyler Miracle at ends, while. sophomore Isiah Lampton will play nose guard. The secondary includes seniors Latiolais (safety) and Adams (cornerback) and sophomore Treyton McCoy (cornerback).

SPECIAL TEAMS

Karr is expected to be the punter, while sophomore Tayte Duncan will be the kicker. The long snapper will be sophomore Bailey McCoy.

Offense Quarterbacks: *Aaron Latiolais (sr., 5-9, 165), Tyler Karr (so., 5-9, 165)

Green Wave looking for edge Near the end of a Newark Catholic High School football practice in mid-August, a coach asked players what they would hang their hat on this year. Answers varied. “This year, we chose as our theme, BOOM, (which means) ‘Brothers on One Mission,’ ” senior running back/linebacker Wes Jurden said. “We want to, as a unit, progress as one. Ultimately, our goal is to get to state.” Senior two-way lineman Nick Cavinee, a Division I recruit, added something else. “We want to pride ourselves doing little things, doing things other teams might not be willing to do,” Cavinee said. “It’s watching film in our downtime (or) doing reps at home. Any little advantage that can get us in that championship mentalAugust 27, 2015

ity, we look to do and we look to do it right and hard and with everything that we’ve got.” The Green Wave is hungry as it prepares to open the season Aug. 28 at Portsmouth West. Newark Catholic finished 5-5 overall and 2-2 in the LCLSmall School Division last year, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2011 and the fourth time since winning the Division VI state championship in 2007. After averaging 33.2 points in 2013, when Newark Catholic went 11-2 and lost to Ready 48-21 in the Division VI, Region 21 final, the Green Wave lost 19 seniors and filled several positions with younger players. The team averaged 12.1 points last year and scored 10 points or fewer four times. Newark Catholic finished third in the LCL-Small behind Johnstown (4-0) and Heath (3-1) and ahead of Utica (1-3) and Northridge (0-4). The Green Wave also

(fr., 6-0, 220) Defense Linemen: *Isaiah Lampton (so., 5-10, 175), *Senior, *Yoho, *Miracle, Bailey McCord (so., 6-0, 170), Duncan, Fisher, Bradley Linebackers: *Brown, *Karr, *Manning, *Williams, Sonny Hannum (jr., 5-8, 145), Lines, Hogue, McCord Secondary: *T. McCoy, *Adams, *Latiolais, A. McCoy, Khaliq, Romine Special teams Kickers: *Duncan, Miracle Punters: *Karr, Latiolais Returners: TBD Long snappers: *McCord, A. McCoy (*Denotes projected starter) bemerine@thisweeknews.com

FOOTBALL is

an incredible game. Sometimes it’s so

incredible, it’s

unbelievable.

— TOM LANDRY

Good Luck, heath bulldogs!

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THE LINEUP

Newark Catholic

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Running backs: *Adryn McCoy (jr., 5-6, 155), *Nick Lines (sr., 5-8, 165), Andrae Manning (so., 5-7, 150), Brock Williams (so., 5-10, 160), Latiolais Receivers: *Aric Adams (sr., 6-0, 170), *Simon Romine (so., 5-9, 145), Rahli Khaliq (sr., 62, 155), Treyton McCoy (so., 5-11, 160) Tight ends: *Avery Hogue (sr., 5-8, 155), Kordell Wiley (sr., 6-2, 170) Linemen: *Kyle Yoho (sr., 6-2, 245), *Daulton Brown (jr., 5-10, 220), *Elijah Senior (sr., 5-10, 205), *Dillon Gemmell (jr., 5-9, 220), *Alex Bradley (jr., 5-10, 165), Tyler Miracle (sr., 6-0, 220), Alijah Fisher (jr., 6-0, 220), Tayte Duncan (so., 6-0, 220), Carter Hazen

finished 14th in Region 21 as the top eight teams made the playoffs. “We appear to have depth at the skill positions. We are hoping to develop more depth on the (offensive) and (defensive) lines,” 14th-year coach Bill Franks said. “We are really trying hard to every month control what we can control. The offseason was good. We were consistent. “Now, let’s take care of our bodies. Let’s rest, let’s sleep and study film. That’s a huge emphasis right now. Before we watch the film of a game or a scrimmage with our kids, we are hoping they prewatched it at home on an iPad or an iPhone. We want to take another step in seriousness in that area, just being really accountable.” Newark Catholic’s home opener at refurbished White Field is Sept. 5 against Nelsonville-York. New synthetic turf was

FOOTBALL is

an incredible game. Sometimes it’s so

incredible, it’s

unbelievable.

— TOM LANDRY

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Utica

First-year coach embraces rebuilding task

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Coach Brian Gastin was with the Utica High School football program as an assistant last fall, and liked what he saw from the players every day in practice. The Redskins had the hardworking kids necessary to build a winning program. So when former coach Charlie Smith left the program after two seasons, Gastin welcomed the challenge to rebuild a program that has not reached the postseason in 15 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had some rough times, but we have some good kids,â&#x20AC;? said Gastin, who coached Mount Vernon to its only OCC football titles in

To Succeed, You need to find something

to hold on to,

something to motivate you, something to inspire you.

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; TONY DORSETT

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1998 and 2002. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We drink the same water here that everyone else does in the county. You need to be half psychologist and half coach. These kids are as good as anyone around.â&#x20AC;? The Redskins have made the postseason three times â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1991, 1999 and 2000. In their last playoff appearance, they defeated visiting Bellaire 3528 in overtime in a first-round Division IV game before losing to Licking Valley 33-7 in a regional semifinal at Newarkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s White Field. Utica finished ninth in Division IV, Region 15 in both 2008 and 2010, as the top eight teams qualified for the playoffs. Last season, the Redskins finished fourth (1-3) in the LCL-Small School Division, which is now called the LCLCardinal. Johnstown (4-0) was champion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to create a vision that you as players are

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Page 78

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28....................at Centerburg Sept. 4.......................at East Knox Sept. 11.............vs. Fredericktown Sept. 18...................vs. Lakewood Sept. 25.........at Watkins Memorial Oct. 2 .........................vs. Granville *Oct. 9 .............................at Heath *Oct. 16 ..........vs. Newark Catholic *Oct. 23 ..................vs. Johnstown *Oct. 30 ....................at Northridge 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-3 LCL-Small School) Centerburg ........................L, 23-0 East Knox .........................W, 14-0 Fredericktown..................L, 48-32 Watkins Memorial..............L, 25-8 Granville ..........................L, 34-13 Licking Valley...................L, 28-13

OFFENSE

Gastin has changed the Redskinsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; offense from a pro-set to a wing-T formation. They have six returning starters in seniors Kamron Gleckler (guard), Brad Keener (fullback), Mitchell Marston (wide receiver) and Pierce Piazza (running back), junior Matt Moore (center) and sophomore Brad Potes (quarterback). â&#x20AC;&#x153;The new offense we have

*Heath...............................L, 27-0 *Johnstown .......................L, 35-6 *Northridge.......................W, 38-6 *Newark Catholic...............L, 20-6 *League contest INSIDE THE REDSKINS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Brian Gastin, first season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Josh Dassylva (RB/WR/DB), Kamron Gleckler (OL/DL), Mitchell Marston (WR/DL/P) Matt Moore (OL/DL), Brock Moran (RB/DL), Gavin Posey (OL/DL), Brad Potes (QB/DB) and R.J. Snyder (OL/DL) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Zack Edmister (RB/DB), Tate Evans (OL/DL), Austin Parmer (WR/DB), Jake Smith (WR/LB), Braedon Taylor (WR/LB) and Stout VanWey (OL/DL)

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New coach set on instilling winning attitude By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM A new coach and a new attitude have permeated the Northridge High School football program. The Vikings are led by firstyear coach Shawn Hinkle, who was the head coach at Canal Winchester from 2011-13. He takes over a Northridge program that last had a winning record in 2005, when the Vikings finished 6-4. In the nine seasons since, they are 23-67 and have not won more than three games since going 4-6 in 2008. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re trying to change the

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lot of kids who are either firsttime players or playing for the first time in years,â&#x20AC;? Gastin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being a coach is a lot more than just practice and Friday nights in the fall. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now like you are the CEO of a company, and you have do fund-raising and a lot of duties. I really wanted the challenge to build this program.â&#x20AC;?

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only as good as the guy next to you,â&#x20AC;? said Gastin, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Centerburg. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your job is so important because if you worry about doing your 1/11th, then that will fit in with everyone else. They need to make sure they do their individual job.â&#x20AC;? The Redskins suffered a major loss when senior Garrett Robberts (6-foot-3, 230 pounds; second-team allleague) was injured over the summer playing baseball, going over a fence trying to record an out. He tore the ACL and MCL in his right knee and is likely out for the season. Robberts started on both sides of the line and was the teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s placekicker. Utica has 53 players on its roster, eight more than last season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The good news is we have more kids than last year, but the bad news is that we have a

! !

culture, which is something the kids and I have talked about extensively,â&#x20AC;? said Hinkle, who replaces Darby Riley (5-25 in three seasons). â&#x20AC;&#x153;What a change in culture means is leaving no stone unturned. We have to start from scratch and rebuild everything.â&#x20AC;? Northridge was winless last season in the LCL-Small Division, which is now called the LCL-Cardinal Division. It was 0-4 behind champion Johnstown-Monroe (4-0). The Vikings have struggled during their first two seasons in the LCL, especially in football. Northridge is 0-14 against LCL schools and has been outscored 555-135 in those contests for an average score of 39.6 to 9.6. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coach (Hinkle) has come in and has taken the things that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done before and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changed them around and given us new concepts,â&#x20AC;? senior two-way lineman Logan Parker said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s made the community realize that this is going to be a new year. This is when Northridge football changes and puts things together for a winning season. We have much more intensity than last year and more hope for a better season.â&#x20AC;? In the past, Northridge played crossover games against larger LCL teams in the other division. This season, however, games against Granville, Licking Heights or Licking Valley have been replaced by Beverly Fort Frye (Sept. 18), Bradford (Sept. 26) and Hicksville (Oct. 9). â&#x20AC;&#x153;The kids have bought in, and bought in quickly,â&#x20AC;? said Hinkle, a 1987 graduate of Crooksville who was an assis-

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ........at Wash. Court House Sept. 4 ......................at Lakewood Sept. 11 ..............vs. Mount Gilead Sept. 18 .....................vs. Fort Frye Sept. 26.......................at Bradford *Oct. 2 ....................vs. Johnstown Oct. 9 .........................at Hicksville *Oct. 16 ...........................at Heath *Oct. 24 ...........at Newark Catholic *Oct. 30 ...........................vs. Utica 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-4 LCL-Small School) Arcanum .........................L, 38-14 Fairfield Christian ..............W, 35-7 Mount Gilead ...................L, 42-27 Licking Valley.....................L, 40-0 Licking Heights..................L, 47-7 *Johnstown .......................L, 51-0

Lakewood........................L, 33-26 *Newark Catholic...............L, 34-6 *Utica ................................L, 38-6 *Heath...............................L, 49-0 *League contest INSIDE THE VIKINGS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Shawn Hinkle, first season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Hunter Corbin (RB/LB/P),Austin Chambers (OL/DL), Sam Doran (RB/LB), Logan Garee (RB/LB), Daniel Hatfield (QB/DB), Gage Linkous (RB/LB), Logan Parker (OL/DL) and Sam Shults (OL/DL) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Brennan Angus (RB/DL), Canden Chapman (WR/LB), Bryant Garee (QB/DB), Matt Hebert (OL/DL), Chase Hess (RB/LB/K/P), Mike Kimes (WR/DB), Daniel McNamara (WR/DB) and Hunter Reece (OL/DL)

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(614) 784-0800 tant at Bloom-Carroll last season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They know what direction weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re headed and what my expectations are, and that they should be their expectations as well.â&#x20AC;?

OFFENSE

Hinkle said the Vikings will run a spread offense out of necessity, as they feature a roster that is small but quick. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re running an offense with strong spread tendencies,â&#x20AC;? said Hinkle, whose team opens Aug. 28 at Washington Court House. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being a little undersized, we need to try to get the ball to the edge and make some plays.â&#x20AC;? The Vikings have 48 players, but only four are 250

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See our ad on pg. 91 pounds or more, with two other players listed at 220 or above. Senior lineman Sam Shults (5foot-10, 255 pounds) and sophomore Evan Willeke (6-3, 255) are the biggest. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I first got this job, my dad asked me how many kids I have over 200 pounds (seven), but I told him that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter any more,â&#x20AC;? Hinkle said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You have to look at how many kids are at least 250 or over. Kids are just bigger today than they were 20 or 25 years ago.â&#x20AC;? Junior Daniel Hatfield took over at quarterback a year ago when Bryant Garee was injured. He also started as a defensive back and was honorable mention all-league. He is competing with senior Alex

Webb for the starting job behind center. Hinkle said they plan to use a running back-by-committee, especially until senior Sam Doran returns from wrist surgery and a cut on his leg from farm machinery. The widereceiver positions are just as open.

DEFENSE

The 4-3 base defense has most positions up for grabs, especially as Hinkle tries to limit the number of full-time two-way players. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re basically a coverfour team,â&#x20AC;? Hinkle said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking to see who fits what we have and looking at the athletic ability of the kids on our ball club.â&#x20AC;? One of his biggest areas of concern is the defensive line, which will likely be a rotation of players from the offensive line. With the extra play comes fatigue and more of a chance for injury, which is something Hinkle said his team must try to avoid. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Any one injury can lend to multiple positions,â&#x20AC;? Hinkle said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Typically, we have kids playing two, maybe three spots if you count special teams. When you have numbers like we have, the importance of each individual player is magnified.â&#x20AC;?

SPECIAL TEAMS

Injuries have already crept into the special teams with Doran out as the long-snapper. Senior Tristan Foor is sidelined with an ankle injury, leaving the place-kicking position

VIKINGS >> 90 August 27, 2015

OTHER AREA TEAMS

Bexley

Veteran Lions eye MSL title, playoff berth By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM As the Bexley High School football team prepares to pursue an MSL-Ohio Division title and a third consecutive playoff appearance, it enters the season as an experienced group. The Lions have eight returning starters on offense and six on defense. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel like weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to be a very well-rounded team,â&#x20AC;? senior wide receiver and defensive back Jack Allen said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think some of our opponents will think we lost a lot from last year, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not the case. Last year, we had players who could make big plays. This year, we have a team.â&#x20AC;? A year ago, Bexley bulldozed its opponents with a powerful running game that averaged more than 360 yards per contest and an offense that averaged 38.9 points. It was quarterback Andre Stewart, a first-team all-district and all-league selection, who gave defenses the most problems. A 2015 graduate who was MSL-Ohio Back of the Year, Stewart had 1,452 yards rushing and 27 touchdowns on 141 carries and completed 31 of 66 passes for 563 yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions. While Stewart is gone, the offense will have veterans up front and in the backfield. Taking Stewartâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s place is junior quarterback Simon Kroos, who started as a sophomore for the boys basketball team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no stranger to varsity competition,â&#x20AC;? said ninth-year coach John Smith, whose team plays host to Harvest Prep in

HORNETS FROM >> 75

first-team all-league).

At a glance

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Bexley lost its dependable kicker to graduation in Adam Hirsch, a soccer player who made 53 of 55 extra-point attempts and earned honorable mention all-league honors. Smith has recruited another soccer player to kick in junior Logan Meyer.

THE LINEUP

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its opener Aug. 28. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s got a strong mental fortitude and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a thrower. The expectation is to run the football, but if teams put nine men in the box, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to be able to throw.â&#x20AC;? In last seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opener, Bexley defeated a Harvest Prep team (45-12) that went on to qualify for the postseason in Division VII. In the playoffs, the Lions fell to Beechcroft 39-20 in a Division IV, Region 13 first-round game to finish 8-3 overall. With back-to-back MSLOhio losses to Whitehall (9-0) and West Jefferson (21-14), Bexley tied Grandview and West Jefferson for second (42) in the league behind Whitehall (5-1).

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OFFENSE

Bexleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offense features a seasoned front that includes returning starters in seniors Izzy Keller (honorable mention alldistrict, second team all-league) and Jackson Lee and juniors Parker Getz, John Corcella (honorable mention all-league) and Wade Randle (second-team all-district). The Lions also have their first-team all-district and allleague tight end, senior Youssef Abou Hashish. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re developing some depth behind those guys and we just want to make sure everybody is ready to go,â&#x20AC;? Smith said. Bexley also is deep at running back, where juniors Micah Fliegel and Shawn Early return

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......................vs. Westland Sept. 3 .........at Hamilton Township Sept. 11.......................vs. Newark Sept. 19...........at Newark Catholic Sept. 25..........................vs. Heath *Oct. 2..........vs. Watkins Memorial Oct. 9......................vs. St. Charles *Oct. 16 ....................at Lakewood *Oct. 23.......................at Granville *Oct. 30................at Licking Valley 2014 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 1-3 LCL-Big School) Mifflin.............................W, 41-10 Hamilton Township...........L, 56-21 Newark...........................W, 37-14 Heath .............................W, 47-13 Northridge ........................W, 47-7 *Lakewood .....................W, 78-14

*Granville.........................L, 26-21 *Licking Valley ...................L, 26-9 *Watkins Memorial.............L, 10-7 Johnstown..........................W, 9-6 *League contest INSIDE THE HORNETS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: Darren Waters, 10th season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Gabe Caldwell (QB), Chance Canady (OL/DL), Jordan Coulter (OL/DL), Adrien Hammonds (RB/LB), L.A. Kelly (RB/OLB), Jake Langkamp (OL), Zach Sims (OL/DL), Brandon Smith (WR/LB) and Nate Thacker (WR/DB) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Tyler Angle (G/DT), Kendall Bradley (TB/S), Chris DeLeau (FB/LB), Mershawn McMahan (WB/DB) and Robbie Moore (FB/OLB)

Tosh Hayes (jr.), Maurice Edmondson (so.) Receivers: *Brandon Smith (jr.), *Thacker, Branden Edmondson (sr.), Iman Ragland (jr.), Austin Dulaney (sr.), Mina Zaky (sr.) Tight ends: *Josh Martin (jr.), Nick Murphy (sr.), Christopher Thomas (so.) Linemen: *Chance Canady (jr.), *Jordan Coulter (jr.), *Jacob Dalton (sr.), *Jake Langkamp (sr.), *Zach Sims (sr.), Dennis Johnson (sr.), Chasen Neff (sr.), Quinton Payton (jr.), Garrett Sommerkamp (jr.) Defense Linemen: *Canady,*Coulany Service Repair ter, *Murphy, *Sims, Payton, Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 Martin, Johnson, Dalton, Car(614) 784-0800 los Martinez (sr.) See our ad on pg. 91 Linebackers: *Neff, *Smith, *L.A. Kelly (jr.), *Cameron Malicoate (sr.), Hammonds, Special Teams Moore, M. Edmondson Harrell, Hayes, Omar Jalloh Kicker: *Cameron Christian Long snapper: *Hammond, (jr.), Nolan Murgatroyd (sr.) (sr.), Cody Eichenlaub Harrell Secondary: *B. Edmondson, Punter: *Thacker, Timmy (*Denotes projected starter) *Pearson, *Thacker, Dulaney, Sanford (jr.) Moore, Killian Brewer (jr.) Returners: Thacker, Pearson, bemerine@thisweeknews.com

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SPECIAL TEAMS

*Madison Plains ..............W, 49-12 Fairfield Christian ..............W, 56-0 *London W, 56-7 *Columbus Academy.......W, 49-28 PLAYOFFS Beechcroft.......................L, 39-20 *League contest INSIDE THE LIONS â&#x20AC;˘Coach: John Smith, ninth season â&#x20AC;˘Top players: Youssef Abou Hashish (TE/LB), Jack Allen (WR/DB), John Corcella (OL/LB), Micah Fliegel (RB), Parker Getz (OL/DL), Izzy Keller (LB), Jackson Lee (OL/DL), Jacob Mittman (DB), Jacob Nagle (WR) and Wade Randle (OL) â&#x20AC;˘Key losses: Javell Gray (RB),Adam Hirsch (K), Jeff Nicosia (WR/DB),Andre Stewart (QB/DB) and John Yee (OL/DL)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ................vs. Harvest Prep Sept. 4.................at Bloom-Carroll Sept. 11 ..................vs. Centennial *Sept. 17 ....................at Whitehall *Sept. 25...........vs. West Jefferson *Oct. 2 ...............at Madison Plains Oct. 9 ......................vs. Millersport *Oct. 16.........................at London *Oct. 23.....vs. Columbus Academy *Oct. 30....................at Grandview 2014 RESULTS (8-3 overall, 4-2 MSL-Ohio) Harvest Prep...................W, 45-12 Berne Union......................W, 56-0 Centennial ......................W, 41-28 *Grandview.....................W, 42-16 *Whitehall............................L, 9-0 *West Jefferson ...............L, 21-14

Senior Youssef Abou Hashish returns after being named firstteam all-district at tight end. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

as starters. Fliegel, who was honorable mention all-district and all-league, had 765 yards and seven touchdowns on 78 carries. Gone is 2015 graduate Javell Gray (special mention all-district, second-team all-league), who rushed for 743 yards and eight touchdowns on 79 carries. The group of receivers includes returning starter Jacob Nagle, a senior.

DEFENSE

Of the six returning starters, three of them play up front in senior Jordan Robinette and Keller and Getz. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really where we are

going to have success, or not, on that side of the ball,â&#x20AC;? said Smith, whose defense held opponents to 15.6 points per game last season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These guys are back for their second season and we feel we could be two-deep by the end of the season.â&#x20AC;? The linebackers will be a young group led by Abou Hashish (72 tackles). The secondary features returning starters in Kroos and senior Jacob Mittman (second-team all-district, first-team all-league). Last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s defense relied on a strong group of linebackers led by 2015 graduate Jeff Nicosia (team-best 119 tackles; second-team all-district,

LANCERS

FROM >> 75

anchored by senior tackle Mat French and sophomore guard Logan Hissong, both of whom are two-way linemen and returning starters. Also back on the line are juniors Cody Copeland and Shay French. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a number of weapons at slot back and we returned four starters on the line,â&#x20AC;? Conley said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mat French is a big and physical football player at 6-3 and 315. He had a tremendous offseason and training camp. He squats 635 and benches 400.â&#x20AC;?

DEFENSE

Although there are only three returning starters on defense, Conley believes it will be a stronger unit than the one that allowed 33.8 points per game last season. Joining tackles Hissong and Mat French on the line will be junior Matt Mohr and sophomore James Waters at the end spots. Linebackers in the 4-3

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base defense will be senior Jason Gardner, junior Alex Poling and sophomore David Moody. In the secondary with Glaub will be juniors Austin Avery and Scotty Painter and sophomore Josh Yost. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got a very good defensive front that will allow our linebacking corps to run free and get to the ball,â&#x20AC;? Conley said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like our linebackers and I think theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll make some big plays for us.â&#x20AC;?

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Cole Glaub (sr., 6-0, 160) Running backs: *Chase Shaffer (so., 5-9, 165) Receivers: *Cameron Brooks (jr., 6-6, 160), *Cameron Downs (jr., 5-9, 150), *Branson Hinkle (jr., 58, 185), *Austin Myers (sr., 57, 135) Linemen: *Cody Copeland (jr., 5-9, 190), *Mat French

LAKEWOOD >> 88

Offense Quarterbacks: *Simon Kroos (jr., 6-1, 160), Jacob Mittman (sr., 6-0, 170) Running backs: *Micah Fliegel (jr., 5-8, 170), *Shawn Early (jr., 5-10, 180), *Tommy Brown (sr., 5-10, 160), Josh Jones (jr. 5-9, 150), Rico Truss (sr., 5-11, 170) Receivers: *Jacob Nagle (sr., 5-11, 175), *Jack Allen (sr., 63, 180), *Kyle Benson (jr., 61, 180), Wesley Woodward (so., 5-8, 145) Tight end: *Youssef Abou Hashish (sr., 5-11, 220) Linemen: *Izzy Keller (sr., 6-1, 233), *Jackson Lee (sr., 61, 220), *Parker Getz (jr., 6-0, 220), *John Corcella (jr., 5-11, 170), *Wade Randle (jr., 6-3, 265), Lyle Petry (jr., 6-0, 210), Grant Robinson (jr., 6-0, 220), Ethan Gammage (so., 6-0, 235) Defense Linemen: *Jordan Robinette (sr., 6-2, 195), *Getz, *Keller, Lee, Robert Lewis III (sr., 5-8, 188) Linebacker: *Abou Hashish, *Corcella, *Early, *Jalen Hatton (jr., 5-10, 195), Truss Secondary: *Kroos, *Mittman, *Brown, Allen, Jones

LIONS >> 82

ThisWeekSPORTS.com Page 79

O THER A REA T EAMS

Hamilton Township

Buckeye Valley

Barons seek first trip to postseason

Robinson is back to lead Rangers

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM On a personal level, Patrick Robinson will have a hard time topping his breakout sophomore season for the Hamilton Township High School football team. In his first year as starting quarterback, Robinson set school records for completions (174), passing yards (2,329) and touchdowns (23) to power the Rangers to records of 7-4 overall and 5-2 in the MSL-Buckeye Division and their first playoff appearance since 2002. “The big thing this year is reads. The game has slowed down for me a lot,” said Robinson, a 5-foot-9, 174-pound junior who had a stress fracture in his right arm during the preseason but does not expect to miss any of the regular season. “We’ve bonded together and I know them way better than I did last year. This year will be cleaner and crisp.” Robinson also is the first junior to be named a captain at Hamilton Township, according to sixth-year coach Nathan Hillerich. As a team, the Rangers remain hungry. If they are to win their third consecutive league championship this year, it probably won’t be enough for satisfaction. Hamilton Township lost to Wooster 3521 in the first round of the Division II, Region 5 playoffs, denying the Rangers their first postseason win since Nov. 3, 1989, when they defeated Urbana 2-0 in the school’s playoff debut. Even so, players did not necessarily agree that this team has a playoff-or-bust mentality. “There’s not really any pressure,” said two-way lineman Christian Swauger, who was special-mention all-state last year when the Rangers went 5-2 in the MSL-Buckeye to tie Teays Valley for the title. “I think

Junior Mikele Cumberland is one of six starters to return on defense for the Rangers. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

we’re a lot further along than we were last year. We have a lot better technique and this is our second year in the offense.” A Sept. 3 home game against Licking Heights and a Sept. 11 visit to Worthington Kilbourne likely will provide early litmus tests for Hamilton Township, which dropped to Division III, Region 9 this year. Kilbourne and Licking Heights both are in Division II. “You win those, you’re almost locking yourself into the playoffs,” Hillerich said. “You lose one, you’re still in good position. You lose both, well, that’s what kept us out in 2013.”

OFFENSE

Hamilton Township lost its top running back from last year in Aaron Williams (1,153 yards and 19 touchdowns on 155 carries in seven games), who now plays at Morehead State. The Rangers also must replace their top three receivers, led by current Bowling Green player Deric Phouthavong (66 catches, 1,051 yards, 10 touchdowns). In addition to Robinson, the Rangers return their second-leading rusher in senior Wes Payne (412 yards and three touchdowns on 80 carries), and added transfer Jake Long from Ashland (Ky.) Paul Blazer. In June, Long committed to Purdue, which recruited him as a safety, but flipped

Good Luck

Rangers! Compliments of

to West Virginia on Aug. 10. Long downplayed his own talents while lauding Robinson. “I haven’t seen (a quarterback) like him,” Long said. “His arm strength is crazy, but his reads, I haven’t seen someone read the field like him. “The offense is very different from what I ran (in Kentucky), but we are up-tempo, it’ll get me ready for college and it’ll make defenses play up to us.” Swauger, a left guard, is one of four returning starters on the offensive line, along with seniors Jake Ellis (right tackle) and Jacob Gall (right guard) and sophomore Tristan Kieffer (center).

FOOTBALL is

an incredible game. Sometimes it’s so

incredible, it’s

unbelievable.

— TOM LANDRY

Good Luck, “Your Neighborhood Grocer”

At the corner of Parsons & Williams Since 1948! Page 80

DEFENSE

Hamilton Township returns six defensive starters in linemen Ellis and Swauger, senior defensive back Mike Phimmasone, junior defensive back Mikele Cumberland and junior linebackers Jacob Maynard and Jeremy Maynard. Jeremy Maynard had 63 tackles last year, second on the team, and a team-high six sacks. Several of those returning starters also will see time on offense, so Hillerich is thankful for the team’s depth. Others who are expected to start or see

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in-the-headlights look,” Stephens said. “Now they have the answers. That mental thing Ben Kidwell of the Buckeye is starting to click in.” Valley High School football team minces no words when OFFENSE discussing what he wants to get Schilling completed 94 of out of this season. 152 passes for 880 yards with Kidwell, a 5-foot-10, 185- eight touchdowns and 10 interpound senior, rushed for 508 ceptions last year, and rushed yards and six touchdowns on for 304 yards and two touch86 carries last year, and caught downs on 137 carries. 20 passes for 180 yards and He competed for the starting three scores as the Barons went job with junior Ben Spaulding, 4-6 overall and 3-4 in the Mid who started against Upper SanOhio Athletic Conference-Red dusky and completed all seven Division. passes on the opening drive, Improving on those numbers including a touchdown. are on his mind, but they’re sharThe starting quarterback’s ing room with another wish. options will include Kidwell, “Obviously I would like to who again figures to be the get the ball as much as I possi- Barons’ primary back, and senbly could and score as many ior Gabe Miller and freshman touchdowns as I can, both for Ethan Goble at receiver. me and my team,” Kidwell said. Three-year starter Andy Park “But I am pretty confident for returns at right tackle to anchor this season. I think we are going an offensive line that also to make a name for ourselves includes 6-foot, 295-pound junthis season. I think we are going ior guard Wes Cochran, who to put (Buckeye Valley) back went 1-2 at heavyweight in the on the map. Division II state wrestling tour“We need (to do well) this nament last year. Senior Eli season, not only for us (seniors) Walls will start at center, with but the entire program.” classmate Gardon Wycoff movBuckeye Valley is seeking ing to guard from tight end. its first playoff appearance. “We have guys who can play The Barons fought inexpe- receiver, so I figured I would rience and inconsistency a year go play o-line,” said Wycoff, ago, not putting together back- who is 6-2 and 210 pounds. to-back wins until the final two “Definitely the toughest part games of the year, when they has been my size. I am not the beat MOAC-Red foes Upper thickest guy out there. But the Sandusky (28-13) and North easiest part is since I pay attenUnion (12-0). Buckeye Valley tion, I know how to take good, tied North Union for fifth in the clean steps and work around league behind Marion Pleasant people.” (7-0), Caledonia River Valley (5-2), Jonathan Alder (5-2) and DEFENSE Galion (4-3) and ahead of FairKidwell also was a leader on banks (1-6) and Upper Sandefense last year, as he recorded dusky (0-7). Marion Harding has replaced 72 tackles, two interceptions, a Upper Sandusky, which was a sack and a fumble recovery at football-only member of the outside linebacker. Senior cornerback Nick MOAC in 2014 before joining the rest of its teams in the North- Cooper is coming off a junior season in which he made seven ern 10 Athletic Conference. “Last year, mentally we hurt interceptions and was named ourselves a great deal, whether first-team all-state in Division it was in alignments or assign- III. Cooper spent much of the ments,” second-year coach Matt preseason recovering from a Stephens said. “We need to ruptured spleen he sustained clean that up. And we need to during baseball season. Senior Todd Westover get that killer instinct. We were in games where I thought we returns at safety, as does junior were a better team, and we just Chris Santillin at cornerback. Park and Gardon Wycoff are couldn’t close it out. We have to be able to put teams away.” expected to be the starting ends, Stephens lauded an increased with Cochran and Walls as the comfort level among his play- tackles. Taren Wycoff and junior ers. That is partly aided by the return of several key players, Blayde McCully also will play including senior quarterback linebacker. Tim Schilling, a handful of lineSPECIAL TEAMS men and sophomore linebacker Senior Sam Scharff returns Taren Wycoff, who led the Barons with 102 tackles and an for his second year at kicker. He was 16-for-19 on extra-point interception as a freshman. “The questions we are ask- attempts and 5-for-5 on field ing in meetings, maybe a year goals, with a long of 38 yards. ago, we would ask the same BARONS >> 81 thing and there was that deerAugust 27, 2015

O THER A REA T EAMS

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...................at Delaware Sept. 4 .................vs. Whetstone Sept. 11 ..............vs. Johnstown *Sept. 18 .....................at Galion *Sept. 25 ................at Fairbanks *Oct. 2...........vs. Jonathan Alder *Oct. 9.........vs. Marion Pleasant *Oct. 16 ...............at River Valley *Oct. 23 ........vs. Marion Harding *Oct. 30...............at North Union 2014 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 3-4 MOAC-Red) Delaware .......................L, 30-6 Fisher Catholic.............W, 33-13 Bellbrook .....................L, 22-20 *Galion...........................L, 32-0 *Fairbanks...................W, 17-13 *Jonathan Alder............L, 40-14 *Marion Pleasant..........L, 34-13 *River Valley.................L, 34-14 *Upper Sandusky.........W, 28-13 *North Union .................W, 12-0 *League contest INSIDE THE BARONS •Coach: Matt Stephens, second season •Top players: Wes Cochran (OL/DL), Ben Kidwell (RB/LB), Gabe Miller (WR/DB),Tim Schilling (QB/DB), Eli Walls (OL/DL), Gardon Wycoff (OL/DL) and Taren Wycoff (LB) •Key losses: Austin Kelleher (WR/DB/P), Hunter Morrison (WR/DB), David Praul (OL/DL) and Gavin Terry (WR/DB)

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BARONS

FROM >> 80

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Tim Schilling (sr., 5-10, 165), Ben Spaulding (jr., 6-0, 170) Running backs: *Ben Kidwell (sr., 5-10, 185), Gabe Miller (sr., 5-11, 170) Receivers: *Nick Cooper (sr., 5-9, 150), *Ian Hogg (sr., 6-2, 185), Miller, Ethan Goble (fr., 5-9, 140) Linemen: *Josh Dodds (sr., 5-6, 220), *Andy Park (sr., 6-2, 245), *Eli Walls (sr., 6-3, 285), *Gardon Wycoff (sr., 6-2, 210), *Wes Cochran (jr., 6-0, 295), Jacob Fout (sr., 6-1, 260), Brandon Webb (sr., 6-0, 200) Defense Linemen: *Walls, *Cochran, *Wycoff, *Park, Nick Tubaugh (sr., 5-9, 225), Daryl Mayo (jr., 5-9, 168) Linebackers: *Nathan Bisang (jr., 5-9, 170), *Blayde McCully (jr., 6-0, 220), *Taren Wycoff (so., 6-2, 215), Nick Bradburn (jr., 5-10, 185), Spaulding Secondary: *Cooper, *Miller, *Todd Westover (sr., 6-2, 175), *Chris Santillin (jr., 5-9, 170), Schilling Special Teams Kicker: *Sam Scharff (sr., 57, 145) Punter: Bradburn, Jacob Man (sr., 5-9, 155) Returners: Miller (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com

August 27, 2015

Grove City Christian

Eagles want to take care of business

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

After coming up just short of two major goals last year, the Grove City Christian School football team enters this season with added incentive to achieve those objectives this fall. The Eagles are looking to earn their first MSL-Cardinal Division title following a runner-up finish at 5-1 behind champion Harvest Prep (6-0) last season, and they also are aiming for a Division VII playoff berth after finishing 10th in Region 25 last year. The top eight teams qualify for the postseason. “The big thing is if these guys come together and they work together as a team, our goals should be there at the end of the year,” said coach Andrew McCampbell, whose team travels to Harvest Prep on Oct. 16 after losing 32-29 to a year ago. “The league is first. I want the league championship. The schools are just so evenly matched.” One of the first tasks McCampbell has is to find a replacement for 2015 graduate Tre Roberts, who was named Back of the Year in the MSL-Cardinal after rushing for 1,781 yards and 23 touchdowns on 191 carries as a senior. McCampbell will look at a tandem of players to replace Roberts, led by senior running back Tavian Sim. “Tavian is going to be my key guy on offense,” McCampbell said. “He’s had guys in front of him for three years and this year it’s all him.” Another key loss is junior quarterback Matt Bailey, who

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decided not to play this season. Sophomore Caleb Sullivan, who saw time at quarterback last season when Bailey missed time with an arm injury, will start behind center. “Caleb has a lot of experience running the offense,” McCampbell said. McCampbell expects Harvest Prep to again be the team to beat in the league, but expects Berne Union to also challenge. “We have one team that we haven’t beaten in the league yet and that is Harvest Prep,” said McCampbell, whose team also lost to the Warriors 28-0 in 2013. “I would really like to get them. They’re a good team. It was a heck of a game last year. They barely got out of there with a win. Overall, our motivation is definitely winning that league championship.” Last season, the Eagles finished behind Harvest Prep and ahead of Millersport (4-2), Fisher Catholic (3-3), Berne Union (1-5), Fairfield Christian (1-5) and Worthington Christian (1-5).

OFFENSE

Sullivan will direct the power formation offense that will feature Sim, who was second-team all-league last season after rushing for 244 yards and six touchdowns on 71 carries. Senior fullback Caleb Newkirk returns after missing last season with a knee injury and also will look to help fill the void left by Roberts’ departure. While he was unable to play last season, Newkirk participated on the school’s cheerleading squad. Senior Brady Holt should

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At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ......at Columbus Academy Sept. 4.....................vs. Africentric Sept. 12 .........at Port. Notre Dame *Sept. 18 ...............at Berne Union *Sep. 25...at Worthington Christian *Oct. 2 ..............vs. Fisher Catholic *Oct. 9 ..........vs. Fairfield Christian *Oct. 16 ................at Harvest Prep Oct. 23....................vs. Grandview *Oct. 30 ..................vs. Millersport 2014 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 5-1 MSL-Cardinal) Columbus Academy.........L, 54-14 Rittman...........................L, 31-14 Portsmouth Notre Dame..W, 43-32 *Fairfield Christian ..........W, 42-14 *Worthington Christian ....W, 50-21

Madison Plains..................L, 40-7 *Harvest Prep..................L, 32-29 *Millersport ....................W, 49-19 *Fisher Catholic ..............W, 41-37 *Berne Union ..................W, 26-13 *League contest INSIDE THE EAGLES •Coach: Andrew McCampbell, third season •Top players: William Carson (OL/DL), Brady Holt (WR/TE/RB/DB), Caleb Newkirk (RB/LB), Paul Rouch (OL/DL),Tavian Sim (RB/LB) and Caleb Sullivan (QB/DB) •Key losses: Matt Bailey (QB), Kylar Hunt (OL/DL), Logan Kohl (OL/LB), Alec Poling (RB/DB), Tre Roberts (RB/DB) and Tristan Taylor (QB/WR/K)

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(614) 784-0800 contribute at wide receiver, tight end and wing back. “The goal is always to win the Mid-State League,” Holt said. “That’s one of the goals that we always go for every year because we’re always in the running every year. Being that close last year lit a fire for us to really try and get it this year.” Sophomore Ian Sinclair will play tight end. Seniors William Carson and Paul Rouch will anchor the offensive line, and sophomore Quenton Blount also should contribute up front after a solid offseason, according to McCampbell. “We’re definitely going to push ourselves and it’s going to be a whole other level,” said Carson, who is a captain along with Holt. “We have to stick to our game and play as a team, play as brothers. We

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DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

Sophomore Zach Lantzy, who also plays on the boys soccer team, returns to handle kicking and punting duties. Newkirk and Reynolds are long snappers, with Sullivan

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Offense Quarterbacks: *Caleb Sullivan (so., 6-foot-3, 165 pounds), Brett Baker (fr., 510, 150) R u n n i n g b a c k s : *Caleb Newkirk (sr., 6-1, 205), *Tavian Sim (sr., 5-6, 160) Receivers: *Brady Holt (sr., 5-7, 140), Noah Whitaker (so., 5-11, 130), Brandon Rex (fr., 5-8, 130) Linemen: *William Carson (sr., 6-0, 255), *Paul Rouch (sr., 5-7, 165), *Clayton Lepley (jr., 5-11, 205), *Joe Pashovich (jr., 6-0, 220), *Quenton Blount (so., 5-8, 250) Defense Linemen: *Carson, *Rouch, *Pierce Thissen (sr., 5-10, 195), *Adam Blake (jr., 5-10, 255), *Pashovich Linebackers: *Sim, *Lepley, *Andrew Reynolds (so., 6-0, 180), Kent Writesel (so., 5-9, 150) Secondary: *Holt, *Sullivan, Nicholas Jackson (so., 511, 140), Whitaker Special teams Kicker: *Zach Lantzy (511, 160) Punter: *Lantzy Returners: Sullivan, Writesel Long snappers: Newkirk, Reynolds (*Denotes projected starter)

The Eagles will feature a 43 base defense, and with 29 players on the roster, several athletes will play both offense and defense. Key linemen include Carson, Rouch, senior Pierce Thissen and juniors Adam Blake and Joe Pashovich. Sim, junior Clayton Lepley and sophomore Andrew Reynolds should lead the linebackers, and Holt and Sullivan will be key players in the fdirenna@thisweeknews.com secondary.

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Whitehall-Yearling

Rams feature new coach, personnel

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Although several key players graduated, first-year coach Rod Lightfoot expects a smooth transition as a new era in Whitehall-Yearling High School football begins. Lightfoot, who took over in June after Jake Kuhner resigned after three seasons to become Pickerington North’s wrestling coach, had been an assistant coach for 25 years. That includes the past two seasons and in 1995 at Whitehall. He also has coached at Gahanna, Olentangy Liberty and Thomas Worthington. “I’m very optimistic,” Lightfoot said. “I will be happy if our kids leave it out on the field every game. Our main priority is to obtain our goals that we’ve set. If we come short, we’ll learn how we got there, and if we achieve those goals then we’ll keep moving forward.” Whitehall opens Aug. 28 against Ready in a rematch of last season’s 27-17 seasonopening home loss. The Rams were 0-2 before winning five of their next six games and finished 6-4 overall, failing to qualify for the Division III, Region 9 playoffs. They finished 12th in the region, four spots from the final playoff berth. A goal for the Rams is to defend their MSL-Ohio Division title. They went 5-1 in the league to finish ahead of Bexley, Grandview and West Jefferson, which tied for second at 4-2. It was Whitehall’s first outright league title since 1985 when it won the OCC-Capital, and its first league championship since it tied Licking Valley for the MSL-Ohio title in 2003.

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At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........................at Ready Sept. 4.......................at Northland Sept. 11...................vs. Whetstone *Sept. 17 .......................vs. Bexley *Sept. 25 ...vs. Columbus Academy *Oct. 2......................at Grandview *Oct. 9 .........................vs. London *Oct. 16..............at West Jefferson *Oct. 23............vs. Madison Plains Oct. 30 ...............at Fisher Catholic 2014 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 5-1 MSL-Ohio) Ready..............................L, 27-17 Bloom-Carroll ..................L, 24-14 Whetstone ......................W, 35-20 Northland ........................L, 21-14 *Bexley...............................W, 9-0 *Columbus Academy .......W, 34-23

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Senior wide receiver Derrion Sanders returns after being named honorable mention all-league. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

“That’s everything we talk about every day,” Lightfoot said. “We have a target on our back. We need to work hard every day defending that championship. They know the tremendous challenge ahead of them.” Whitehall will have a new look at quarterback as junior DeShante Vaughn is expected to replace 2015 graduate Tristen Ritchie, who passed for 1,263 yards and 13 touchdowns. Ritchie was named first-team all-league and special mention all-district. The Rams also must replace junior Braden Barker, who transferred to Gahanna. Last season, Barker led the team in rushing with 832 yards and seven touchdowns on 130 carries and had 18 catches for 309 yards and two scores. As a defensive back, he had a teambest three interceptions and was first-team all-league and second-team all-district.

unit still will be effective. He said Vaughn has progressed during the offseason and should be ready to direct the pistol scheme. “DeShante is one of those kids if you tell him once he makes the correction,” Lightfoot said. “He’s doing a tremendous job. He’s throwing the ball well and he’s making good decisions. He’s more than capable of leading the offense.” Junior running back Siraj Muhammad rushed for 307 yards and two touchdowns last season, and seniors Earl Redman (TB) and Kaelan Portis (FB) should also see time in the backfield. “It’s like playing with a chip on our shoulder,” Portis said of defending the league title “There’s an expectation now. We want to repeat and keep it a tradition.” Seniors Brandon Copley and Derrion Sanders are key wide receivers, and senior Stafford Lipscomb will play tight end. OFFENSE Last season, Copley was secDespite the new look on ond-team all-league and offense, Lightfoot believes the Sanders was honorable men-

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ing Barker, defensive back Dassan Jefferson, linebacker Cameron Barker and lineman Jaquan Bevly, who were firstteam all-league. Cameron and Braden Barker are brothers. The line will feature Nichols, Nesbitt and Pierce at tackle, and junior Michael Kantor at end. Key linebackers are seniors Treshon Dizard, Skylar Wilichowski and Portis and juniors Jawuan Hammock and Brandon Webber. “Defensively, we’re looking for our linebacker core (to step up),” Lightfoot said. “They’re untested, so we’re anxious to see how they respond. We only have one linebacker (Wilichowski) that has Friday night experience, but he’s an untested linebacker because we moved him from outside to inside. We’re looking for leadership out of him. We’re looking for him to be a playmaker.” The secondary should be led by senior Caleb Johnson and junior Jailen Willis at cornerback, Muhammad at strong safety and junior TaQuan Williams at free safety.

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THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *DeShante Vaughn (jr., 6-0, 165) Running backs: *Kaelan Portis (sr., 5-10, 185), Earl Redman (sr., 5-8, 162), *Siraj Muhammad (jr., 5-8, 155) Receivers: *Brandon Copley (sr., 5-9, 160), *Derrion Sanders (sr., 6-2, 180) Tight end: *Stafford Lipscomb (sr., 6-3, 200) Linemen: *Shawn Barnes (sr., 6-1, 270), *Steven Gass (sr., 6-2, 240), *Austin Nichols (jr., 5-11, 175), Seymour Pierce (jr., 6-2, 215), Kendall Nesbitt (so., 6-1, 215) Defense Linemen: *Michael Kantor (jr., 6-1, 190), *Nichols, *Pierce, *Nesbitt Linebackers: Treshon Dizard (sr., 6-0, 220), *Portis, *Skylar Wilichowski (sr., 5-8, 195), Jawuan Hammock (jr., 6-1, 185), Brandon Webber (jr., 511, 165) Secondary: *Caleb Johnson (sr., 5-9, 150), * Muhammad, *TaQuan Williams (jr., 6-0, 155), *Jailen Willis (jr., 5-9, 160) Special teams Kicker: *Mateo Miranda (sr., 6-1, 175) Punter: *Copley Returners: Redman, Brandon Hopkins (jr., 6-1, 160) Long snapper: *Nichols (*Denotes projected starter)

tion. “We’re trying to get everything to come together as a team,” Copley said. “I’m trying to help the underclassmen get better.” Whitehall was hit hard by graduation on the offensive line and returns players with limited varsity experience. Senior Shawn Barnes will play center, senior Steven Gass and sophomore Kendal Nesbitt will play tackle and juniors Austin Nichols and Seymour Pierce will play guard. “We’ve been blessed with a lot of skill players,” Lightfoot said. “We’re trying to get our offensive linemen that are juniors and sophomores to understand what we’re doing as far as our inside and outside zone. It takes a few weeks just SPECIAL TEAMS to get them acclimated to takSenior Mateo Miranda, who ing the proper steps. We’re getting there. We’re excited about also plays on the boys soccer team, will kick and Copley is what they can bring.” the punter. Top return threats include DEFENSE Redman and junior Brandon The 3-4 base defense also Hopkins. Nichols is the long snapper. fdirenna@thisweeknews.com lost several key players, includ-

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FROM >> 76

Special Teams Kicker: *Logan Meyer (jr.) Punter: To be determined Long snapper: *Abou Hashish (*Denotes projected starter)

155) Tight end: Carson Blevins (sr., 6-4, 225), Cody Blevins (sr., 6-4, 215) Linemen: *Alex Catalogna (sr., 6-4, 320), Jonny Chatfield (sr., 5-10, 200), David Corbi (sr., 5-10, 185), Aaron McNabb (sr., 5-7, 230), Marcus Funderwhite (sr., 6-0, 220), *Jeff Nogaj (jr., 6-5, 320), Logan

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*Grandview.....................W, 28-20 *London............................W, 20-6 *West Jefferson ...............L, 34-33 *Madison Plains ..............W, 35-27 *League contest INSIDE THE RAMS •Coach: Rod Lightfoot, first season •Top players: Brandon Copley (WR/P), Siraj Muhammad (RB/DB), Austin Nichols (OL/DL), Kaelan Portis (RB/DB), Derrion Sanders (WR) and DeShante Vaughn (QB) •Key losses: Braden Barker (RB/DB), Cameron Barker (TE/LB), Jaquan Bevly (OL/DL), Brandon Buchert (OL/DL), Nelson Cage (RB/LB), J.D. Hornberger (OL), Dassan Jefferson (WR/DB), Davon Moore (RB/DL) and Tristen Ritchie (QB/K)

Tackett (sr., 6-0, 175), Pace Branson (jr., Peyton Clift (jr., 5-9, 155), Isaia Jacob (jr., 6-3, 200), Corey Bias (so., 6-2, 240), Caleb 5-10, 155) Special teams Writesel (so., 6-0, 260) Defense Kicker: *Psurny Linemen: *Cody Blevins, *Catalogna, Punter: *Workman Returners: Coe, Wasierski, Farley *Chatfield, Brandon Siegfried (jr., 6-4, Long snapper: *Brown 195) Linebackers: *Brown, *Bullard, Corbi, (*Denotes projected starter) *Carpenter, Farley Secondary: Carey, *Coe, Wasierski, shennen@thisweeknews.com

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Worthington Christian

Warriors keeping long-term goals in mind By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM The pain of losing all but one game last season hasn’t overshadowed the big picture for the Worthington Christian High School football team. With just eight seniors on their roster a year ago and in their first season playing a varsity schedule, the Warriors knew wins would be difficult to come by. Although the focus heading into this season remains on building a stable program longterm, they’d love to experience more nights like when they beat Berne Union 42-12 in week 9 of the regular season. “A lot of the people who were a part of the win last year are back this season and are ready to play like that again,” junior Ben Morrow said. “It boosted morale going into this season,” junior Emerson Patrick said. To have more success on the scoreboard, the Warriors must overcome some of the same obstacles that hindered them a year ago. There are even fewer seniors – three overall – in the program this fall. Also like last season when Worthington Christian went 19 overall with low numbers, the Warriors have a roster of just 30 players. That means keeping players healthy will remain at a premium, despite the fact that most key players will go both ways. Some players, such as Patrick and fellow junior Reed Tucker, will be starters on both sides of the ball and play a key role in special teams. Still, what the Warriors believe they started last year was encouraging to coach Brian Stier. After Stier was hired as coach in the summer of 2011, Worthington Christian had a middle school team in 2012 and a junior varsity team in 2013.

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......at Cincinnati Landmark Christian Sept. 4............vs. Galion Northmor Sept. 11 ....................at Africentric *Sept. 18...............at Harvest Prep *Sept. 25 ...vs. Grove City Christian Oct. 2...........................vs. London *Oct. 10..............at Fisher Catholic *Oct. 16...................vs. Millersport *Oct. 23..........at Fairfield Christian *Oct. 30..................at Berne Union 2014 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 1-5 MSL-Cardinal) Cin. Landmark Christian ...L, 45-17 Galion Northmor ................L, 55-0 Africentric..........................L, 42-0 *Millersport......................L, 32-21 *Grove City Christian ........L, 50-21

*Fairfield Christian ...........L, 26-14 London..............................L, 47-7 *Fisher Catholic ...............L, 40-14 *Berne Union ..................W, 42-12 *Harvest Prep ....................L, 47-7 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS •Coach: Brian Stier, second season •Top players: Justin Eisel (WR/DB), Sam Homoelle (OL/DL), Parker Lambert (OL/DL), Ben Morrow (OL/DL/LS), Emerson Patrick (RB/LB),Alex Tucker (QB), Reed Tucker (WR/DB) and Issac Wilson (WR/LB) •Key losses: Ben Betulius (RB/LB), Robby Brennan (WR/LB), Devon Feigenbaum (OL/DL), Dominic Francis (TE/LB), Nick Grant (RB/LB) and Brian Lambright (OL/DL)

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(614) 784-0800 “Enrollment is extremely high at the high school,” Stier said. “We’re at capacity, if not over. They’ve got a new plan (to build) a high school and middle school, which will take about three to five years by the time they get moving and get it started. “I think we can be competitive in our conference. The big thing is if we can stay healthy. We’ve got eight guys who started that are back on offense and we’ve got about five or six returning starters on defense.” The Warriors tied Berne Union and Fairfield Christian for fifth at 1-5 in the MSL-Cardinal, behind Harvest Prep (60), Grove City Christian (5-1), Millersport (4-2) and Fisher Catholic (3-3).

OFFENSE

Junior Alex Tucker returns after starting at quarterback, but the Warriors also have depth at the position according to Stier.

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See our ad on pg. 91 Junior Mark Shoemaker and sophomore Braedon Mullins are returnees who have practiced at quarterback. Junior Joseph Greenwood is another option but is a transfer from Buckeye Valley who must sit out the first five games because of the OHSAA’s transfer rule. Tucker completed 81 of 148 passes for 983 yards with six touchdowns and rushed for 448 yards and six scores. He was second-team all-league and honorable mention all-district in Division VI. Also back on offense are Morrow, Patrick and senior Justin Eisel, who all were honorable mention all-league. Eisel finished with 17 receptions, while Patrick had 28 catches for 320 yards as well as 203 yards rushing. Junior Reed Tucker, Alex Tucker’s twin brother, also will see action at receiver. Among those lost to graduation were Robby Brennan

RANGERS

FROM >> 80

considerable varsity time include senior defensive end Aaron Godsey, senior linebacker Dillon Flanery and junior linebackers Anthony Balsimo and Austin Jewell. “We’re trying to save as many guys as we can from playing both ways,” Hillerich said. “We have to put our best 11 out there, but we want to get to the playoffs. We might end up going back to Division II, and if we do, we need to have some guys rested and ready against teams that don’t have a lot of players going both ways. We have to rotate guys to stay fresh.”

(WR), Brian Lambright (OL) and Nick Grant (RB). Lambright was first-team all-league and second-team all-district on defense. Grant was second-team all-league and finished with 448 yards rushing and six touchdowns. Brennan had 19 receptions. “We’ll be in the shotgun spread like last year, but we’ll be more of a huddle team,” Stier said. “Emerson will probably be our featured back this year. He played a lot more at slot receiver last year, but running back is probably a more natural fit. Reed Tucker is going to be a big-time receiver.”

DEFENSE

Most of the key players on offense also will take on important roles defensively, with Eisel (DB), Lambert (DL), Morrow (DL), Patrick (LB), Shoemaker (DB), Reed Tucker (DB) and Sam Homoelle (DL) leading the way. Junior Jacob Kuts (DB) had two interceptions and seven pass

break-ups. The biggest losses to graduation were Brennan (DB), Brian Lambright (DL) and Dominic Francis (LB). Francis was firstteam all-league and special mention all-district. The Warriors are looking to improve a defensive unit that gave up an average of nearly 40 points per game last season.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Brad Robbins was the second-team all-district punter after averaging 36.7 yards, and also made all 10 of his extrapoint attempts at kicker.

THE LINEUP

Bowen averaged 30.1 yards per punt last year, and Robinson also punted 10 times (35.4 yards average). Bowen succeeds 2015 graduate Eric Juarez on field goals and extra points. Juarez made 57 of 59 point-after attempts.

THE LINEUP

Swauger (sr., 6-1, 260), *Tristan Kieffer (so., 6-2, 280), J.T. Ison (jr., 6-2, 274) Defense Linemen: *Aaron Godsey (sr., 6-3, 214), *Sir Simms (sr., 6-3, 167), *Corey Sexton (sr., 6-1, 197), Christian Davidson (so., 6-0, 188), Jeremy Ferguson (so., 6-0, 198) Linebackers: *Anthony Balsimo (jr., 6-0, 205), *Jacob Maynard (jr., 6-1, 170), *Jeremy Maynard (jr., 6-1, 170), Dillon Flanery (sr., 5-10, 195), Austin Jewell (jr., 6-2, 186) Secondary: *Cumberland, *Long, *Phimmasone, *Steven Poth (sr., 5-9, 175) Special teams Kicker: *Bowen Punter: *Bowen Returners: TBD Long snapper: *Jewell (*Denotes projected starter)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........vs. Dayton Belmont Sept. 3 .............vs. Licking Heights Sept. 11 ..at Worthington Kilbourne *Sept. 18 ....at Amanda-Clearcreek *Sept. 25 ..............at Liberty Union *Oct. 2...................vs. Teays Valley *Oct. 9 ...............vs. Fairfield Union *Oct. 16 ...............at Bloom-Carroll *Oct. 23 ....................at Logan Elm *Oct. 30 ....................vs. Circleville 2014 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 5-2 MSL-Buckeye) Columbus East..................W, 70-0 Licking Heights ...............W, 56-21 Worthington Kilbourne......L, 21-14 *Circleville .......................L, 54-42 *Amanda-Clearcreek.........W, 42-0 *Liberty Union .................W, 49-28

FOOTBALL is

*Teays Valley....................L, 35-21 *Fairfield Union .................W, 42-7 *Bloom-Carroll ................W, 35-12 *Logan Elm.....................W, 27-21 PLAYOFFS Wooster...........................L, 35-21 *League contest INSIDE THE RANGERS •Coach: Nathan Hillerich, sixth season •Top players: Mikele Cumberland (WR/DB), Jake Ellis (OL/DL), Jacob Gall (OL/LB), Jake Long (WR/DB), Patrick Robinson (QB), Christian Swauger (OL/DL) •Key losses: Xavier Harris (RB/DB), Dillon Hawthorne (WR/LB), Houston Palmer (LB), Deric Phouthavong (WR) and Aaron Williams (RB/DB)

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11, 160), *Issac Wilson (jr., 510, 160) Linemen: *Sam Homoelle (jr., 6-1, 240), *Parker Lambert (jr., 6-1, 245), *Ben Morrow (jr., 6-0, 225), *Galen Cox (so., 6-5, 245), Joe Seifert (so., 5-11, 180), Luke Sharp (fr., 6-1, 250) Defense Linemen: *Homoelle, *Lambert, *Morrow, *Cox, Seifert, *Sharp Linebackers: Jarod Proxmire (sr., 6-0, 170), *Patrick, *Wilson, *Mullins, Danny Myers (so., 5-10, 140), *Seifert Secondary: *Eisel, *Jacob Kuts (jr., 5-10, 155), *Shoemaker, *Reed Tucker Special teams Kicker: *Brad Robbins (jr., 6-0, 175) Punter: *Robbins Returners: *Patrick, *Shoemaker, *Reed Tucker Long snapper: *Morrow (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: Joseph Greenwood (jr., 5-11, 180), Mark Shoemaker (jr., 6-0, 140), *Alex Tucker (jr., 6-0, 165), Braedon Mullins (so., 6-0, 200) Running back: *Emerson julrey@thisweeknews.com Patrick (jr., 5-6, 155) Receivers: *Justin Eisel (sr., 6-2, 160), *Reed Tucker (jr., 60, 155), *Sammy Myers (jr., 5-

At a glance

Offense Quarterbacks: *Patrick Robinson (jr., 5-9, 174), Isiah Murphy (fr., 5-11, 155) Running backs: *Wes Payne (sr., 5-10, 194), *Mike Phimmasone (sr., 5-6, 151), Jake Long (sr., 6-1, 183) Receivers: *Long, *Austin Bowen (jr., 5-10, 158), *Mikele Cumberland (jr., 5-10, 161) SPECIAL TEAMS Linemen: *Jake Ellis (sr., 6Junior Austin Bowen takes 3, 265), *Jacob Gall (sr., 5-9, over kicking duties and returns 225), *Thomas Mouzon-Keen for his second year as the punter. (sr., 5-9, 205), *Christian August 27, 2015

Emerson Patrick is expected to be the featured back after gaining 203 yards rushing and 320 receiving a year ago. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEKSPORTS

an incredible game. Sometimes it’s so

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Harvest Prep

Warriors seek repeat of MSL title, playoff berth By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Having the best season in program history has impacted the Harvest Prep football team in multiple ways. One of the positives of making the playoffs and winning their MSL-Cardinal Division championship a year ago for the first time is that the Warriors created memories their players and community won’t soon forget. The flip side of that equation is that Harvest Prep lost its Division VII, Region 25 playoff opener to Caldwell 4825 and now must grapple with something it has never had to deal with before: Expectations. For a program with just nine

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seniors, the question coach Milan Smith has for his team is how it will respond new perceptions of the program. “There’s promise,” the second-year coach said. “It’s good for our program, but there’s some stuff that comes with it. There’s a dichotomy to it. The kids had a chance to win the first league championship and make the playoffs for the first time and (become) one of the best teams in the state of Ohio. That’s good. “The bad is that there are unrealistic expectations. There isn’t a legacy here yet. We want to be considered like a Marion Local, but we lost in the first round of the playoffs. We’re not there yet.” The challenge of building on last season likely will rest on the shoulders of a roster heavy on sophomores. Four sophomores are expected to start on the offensive line, and the player with the most potential to have a college future could be sophomore Isaiah Mullins, a 6-foot5, 240-pounder who will play tight end and defensive end. The Warriors also won’t have the player who should be their quarterback until midseason because of the OHSAA’s transfer rule. Harvest Prep, which finished 4-6 in 2013, never let an opening 45-12 loss to Bexley a year ago change its hopes for a strong season. A seven-game winning streak that included a 32-29 win over Grove City Christian in week seven of the regular season followed, and four players – Fabian Cuveitje (Evangel University), James John-

Senior Curtis Jones, who scored six touchdowns and was first-team all-state at defensive Columbus Academy ..........L, 38-35 2015 SCHEDULE back, will be utilized in a variAug. 28............................at Bexley *Worthington Christian .......W, 47-7 ety of offensive roles, includSept. 4 .............vs. Franklin Heights PLAYOFFS ing running back. Sept. 11..........vs. Albany Alexander Caldwell............................L, 48-25 Sophomore Eddie Bramlett *Sept. 18..vs. Worthington Christian *League contest will be leading the receiving Sept. 25.............vs. Madison Plains INSIDE THE WARRIORS corps. *Oct. 2 .......................at Millersport •Coach: Milan Smith, second seaHarvest Prep lost three play*Oct. 9.....................at Berne Union son *Oct. 16 ......vs. Grove City Christian •Top players: Daniel Bangura ers to graduation from its offen*Oct. 23...............at Fisher Catholic (QB/RB/DB), E.J. Bramlett (WR/DB), sive line, including first-team *Oct. 30..........vs. Fairfield Christian Jeremiah Dillinger (OL/DL), Curtis all-district selection Asante Jones (RB/WR/DB), Isaiah Mullins 2014 RESULTS Palmer. (TE/DL), Rodney Myers (QB), Melvyn (8-3 overall, 7-0 MSL-Cardinal) Looking to lead the line is a Bexley ..............................L, 45-12 Thomas (HB/LB) and Quinton Woodsophomore class that includes Toledo Horizon Science ......W, 79-0 son-Levey (OL/LS) Jeremiah Dillinger, Andrew Columbus South.................W, 41-0 •Key losses: Fabian Cuveitje (RB/DB), Howes, Martin Woods and *Fisher Catholic..................W, 39-7 Sam DuPree (QB), James Johnson Quinton Woodson-Levey. *Fairfield Christian..............W, 46-0 (OL/DL/LS), Asante’ Palmer (OL/LB), Woodson-Levey’s older *Millersport ........................W, 39-0 Hunter Pharis (RB/TE/LB) and Terbrother, Gideon Woodson*Grove City Christian ........W, 32-29 rence Walton (WR/DB) *Berne Union......................W, 54-0 Levey, was a four-year starter for the Warriors before graduating in 2014. Furnace “We rushed for more than Tune-Up 4,000 yards last year,” Smith said. “We’re not the same team Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 we were last year. We’ve just (614) 784-0800 got to find a way to win footSee our ad on pg. 91 ball games, game by game. We set our own team goals, but we son (Mississippi Valley State), back to start the season, but put more emphasis on competHunter Pharis (Evangel) and senior Rodney Myers Jr. likely ing week after week.” Judah Tutt (Alderson Broad- will take over at midseason. DEFENSE Myers must sit out the first dus) – earned scholarships to five games after transferring Division II programs. Jones and Bangura, who was The Warriors finished 8-3 from Pickerington North, second-team all-district at overall, the first time they had where he served as a junior var- defensive back, should lead the won more than six games in sity quarterback. defense. That duo will replace junior program history. Jones finished with six inter“We’re ready to work hard, Sam DuPree, who moved to ceptions and Bangura had four execute and stay humble,” sen- Tennessee during the offsea- interceptions a year ago. ior Melvyn Thomas said. “The son. Thomas will lead the lineThomas, who was first-team backing corps in a 5-2 set after seniors last year were strong leaders and they passed down all-district at tight end last sea- finishing with 6.5 sacks and a strong bond to the younger son when he had 19 receptions six tackles for loss a year ago. for 294 yards with four touchplayers.” downs, will serve as an H-back. SPECIAL TEAMS Mullins has received interOFFENSE Smith was hoping to find a est from Mid-American ConSophomore Daniel Bangura ference schools according to kicker during the preseason, possibly a player from the socis expected to be at quarter- Smith.

At a glance

cer team, after Samson Shete was lost to graduation. Jones and Bangura also will be key returners on special teams, meaning that they’ll rarely leave the field.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Daniel Bangura (soph., 5-9, 170), Rodney Myers Jr. (sr., 6-0, 185) Running backs: *Curtis Jones (sr., 5-8, 160), Bangura Receivers: Teshawn Colvin (sr., 5-8, 160), *Melvyn Thomas (jr., 6-0, 205), *James McDowell (jr., 6-2, 190), *E.J. Bramlett (so., 6-1, 150), Savon Mitchell (so., 5-10, 130) Tight end: *Isaiah Mullins (so., 6-5, 240) Linemen: Keith Winston (jr., 6-3, 240), *Jeremiah Dillinger (so., 6-3, 280), *Andrew Howes (so., 5-9, 260), *Martin Woods (so., 6-1, 270), *Quinton Woodson-Levey (so., 6-0, 227), Richard Turnbo (fr., 6-1, 285) Defense Linemen: *Dionte Waller (5-10, 157), *Nijal Jackson (jr., 5-9, 165), *Daniel Owensby (jr., 6-2, 190), *Mullins, *Nick Tyree-Martin (so., 5-7, 180) Linebackers: *Demetrius Williams (sr., 5-7, 170), *Thomas Secondary: *Colvin, *Jones, *Bangura, *Bramlett Special teams Kicker: To be determined Punter: *McDowell Returners: *Jones, *Bangura Long snapper: *WoodsonLevey (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com

Jonathan Alder

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— TOM LANDRY

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Page 84

Close losses give Pioneers ‘rallying cry’

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

The Jonathan Alder High School football team proved to itself last year that it could play with almost anyone. Finishing games, however, was another matter the Pioneers still rue as they prepare to open Aug. 28 at home against Marysville. The Pioneers lost two games in which they were tied or leading late in the third quarter or early in the fourth, including their opener, a 27-20 loss to Marysville. The other game was a 57-50 loss to Marion Pleasant three weeks later. Jonathan Alder finished 6-4 overall and 5-2 in the Mid Ohio Athletic Conference-Red Division, and 13th in Division IV, Region 14 as the top eight teams made the playoffs. The Pioneers have not made the postseason since 2011, the last of 11 consecutive years they qualified.

and lost two games that we were tied in or leading late and lost by seven points. We win those, *Buckeye Valley ..............W, 40-14 2015 SCHEDULE we are 8-2 and in the playoffs. Aug. 28....................vs. Marysville *Upper Sandusky..............W, 42-0 That’s been our rallying cry.” Sept. 3..............vs. West Jefferson *North Union...................W, 21-13 Jonathan Alder returns four Sept. 11 .....at Amanda-Clearcreek *Caledonia River Valley ....L, 39-14 starters on each side of the ball, *Sept. 18..........at Marion Pleasant *Fairbanks........................W, 54-7 including running back and line*Sept. 25 .......................vs. Galion *League contest backer Sean Sullivan, a 5-foot*Oct. 2 ...............at Buckeye Valley INSIDE THE PIONEERS *Oct. 9 .............vs. Marion Harding •Coach: Brett Glass, second season 9, 175-pound senior who rushed *Oct. 16..................at North Union •Top players: Austin Fooce (RB/LB), for 1,257 yards and 14 touch*Oct. 23 .................vs. River Valley Andrew Koenig (WR/DB), Trey Pugh downs on 175 carries. Junior *Oct. 30....................vs. Fairbanks (WR/DE), Nate Sullivan (RB/DB/P), tight end/linebacker Trey Pugh, Sean Sullivan (RB/LB) and Zeke 2014 RESULTS who is 6-5 and 215 pounds, Thorpe (OL/DL) (6-4 overall, 5-2 MOAC-Red) holds offers from Illinois, KenMarysville .......................L, 27-20 •Key losses: Jessy Beachy (RB), tucky, Northwestern and Toledo West Jefferson .................W, 28-6 Troy Caldwell (OL/DL), Mitchell Eye and figures to be among the Clarksville Clinton-Massie..L, 49-0 (WR/DB), Luke Nees (QB) and Steven leading receiver and a key cog *Marion Pleasant .............L, 57-50 Underwood (OL/DL) on defense. *Galion ...........................W, 41-24 “I have a good feeling about this season. We have a talented group. We have a lot more depth than we’ve had the past two any Service Repair years,” said Pugh, who preferred Not valid with any other discounts Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 not to dwell on last year’s close losses. “You can make those (614) 784-0800 See our ad on pg. 91 excuses, but it all comes down to who is more mentally tough, “Our big thing all offseason second-year coach Brett Glass who makes the right choices has been the word ‘finish,’ ” said. “We were 6-4 last year and the fewest mistakes.”

At a glance

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Jonathan Alder begins MOAC-Red play Sept. 18 at defending league champion Pleasant. Pleasant, one of two MOACRed teams to make the playoffs last year along with Galion, won the league title at 7-0. The Pioneers tied Caledonia River Valley for second, ahead of Galion (4-3), Buckeye Valley (3-4), North Union (3-4), Fairbanks (1-6) and Upper Sandusky (07). Marion Harding has replaced Upper Sandusky, which was a football-only member of the MOAC in 2014 before joining the rest of its teams in the Northern 10 Athletic Conference. “We have the physical ability and the mental ability,” senior two-way lineman Zeke Thorpe said. “Now, it’s about how we face the game. It’s really not something we need to physically improve. It’s our attitude.”

PIONEERS >> 90 August 27, 2015

O THER A REA T EAMS

Columbus Academy

Miller is aiming to rejuvenate Vikings By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Robin Miller is looking to provide a spark in his first season as Columbus Academy football coach. Miller replaced interim coach Sheldon Hill, who filled in after Jim Collis resigned in late October. Coming off a season in which the Vikings went 4-5 overall and 2-4 in the MSLOhio Division, Miller said his first goal was to rejuvenate enthusiasm in the program. “Our first priority was building interest in the program, getting that enthusiasm back to the program,” said Miller, a first-time head coach who was an assistant at Licking Valley the past seven seasons. Academy opens at home against Grove City Christian on Aug. 28 and begins league play Sept. 18 at home against Grandview. Last season, the Vikings defeated Grove City Christian 54-14 in their opener before losing four of their next five games. Academy finished 11th in Division VI, Region 21, three spots from the playoffs. The Vikings began last season with 27 players, but there are 39 on this year’s preseason roster, providing much-needed depth and allowing the program to field a junior varsity team. Academy returns several skill-position players led by wide receiver Jerome Buckner and running back Herman Moultrie, both of whom are sophomores. Buckner was named second-team all-league last season, and Moultrie was honorable mention. Academy tied Madison Plains for fifth in the MSLOhio behind Whitehall (5-1), Bexley (4-2), Grandview (42) and West Jefferson (4-2) and ahead of London (0-6). The Vikings visit their biggest rival, Bexley, on Oct. 23. Last season, the Lions defeated Academy 49-28 to secure a Division IV, Region 13 playoff berth. “I’m impressed with the kids’ attitudes (and) their work ethic,” Miller said. “It’s a testament to the school, (which has) tough admissions and standards. These kids are smart. These kids got in for a reason. They’re attentive, they listen and they’re very coachable.”

OFFENSE

Miller hopes his team uses its athleticism to its advantage with a new pistol-formation offense. “It’s a brand new system for the kids and most of these coaches,” Miller said. “It will be a spread with a downhill running mentality. I give them credit for how well they’re picking it up because it’s brand new. We’re almost starting from scratch.” August 27, 2015

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28......vs. Grove City Christian Sept. 4 ............at Linden-McKinley Sept. 11..........vs. Newark Catholic *Sept. 18.................vs. Grandview *Sept. 25 ....................at Whitehall *Oct. 2................at West Jefferson *Oct. 9..............vs. Madison Plains Oct. 16..................vs. Berne Union *Oct. 23 ..........................at Bexley *Oct. 30.........................at London 2014 RESULTS (4-5 overall, 2-4 in MSL-Ohio) Grove City Christian.........W, 54-14 Ready................................L, 35-6 *London..........................W, 38-30 *Grandview......................L, 33-21

*Whitehall........................L, 34-23 *West Jefferson .................L, 42-7 *Madison Plains ..............W, 47-13 Harvest Prep...................W, 38-35 *Bexley............................L, 49-28 *League contest INSIDE THE VIKINGS •Coach: Robin Miller, first season •Top players: Brett Bates (OL/DL), Darren Bates (OL/DL), Roman Bellisari (RB/LB), Jerome Buckner (WR/DB), Herman Moultrie (RB/DB), Nick Stringer (QB/LB) and Matt Watters (QB/DB) •Key losses: Luke Albers (OL/DL), Reed Clark (OL/DL), Ben Dahl (RB/DB) and JaVahn Iverson (RB/LB)

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Sophomore running back Herman Moultrie and the Vikings open Aug. 28 as host to Grove City Christian. RYAN M.L. YOUNG/THISWEEKSPORTS

Senior Matt Watters and junior Nick Stringer have been competing for the starting quarterback position. Last season, Watters completed 64 of 150 passes for 1,253 yards with 12 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He was honorable mention allleague. “Things are going great, especially with the new offense. We’re learning things a lot quicker,” Watters said. “Now that we’re starting to get things down we’re starting to use more complex plays.” Buckner caught 36 passes for 698 yards and seven touchdowns and Moultrie had 13 catches for 179 yards and a touchdown. Junior Michael Kusi, who Miller said is one of the team’s best athletes, is another key running back. Senior Jack Mills, a captain, will play tight end. He was second-team all-league last season. The offensive line should feature senior Dalton Porter, who also was second-team allleague. Other key linemen are junior twins Brett Bates and Darren Bates and junior Jeremiah Mills.

DEFENSE

Junior linebacker Roman Bellisari, who led the Vikings in tackles last season with 70, should be the driving force of the team’s 4-3 defense. Stringer had 42.5 tackles at linebacker, and senior Liam Wainaina is another key linebacker. “We’re jelling together and we’re playing pretty fast,” Stringer said. Key linemen are Porter, the Bates brothers and junior Damien Steiner. Jack Mills, Watters, Kusi and Moultrie are key players in the secondary. “The defense is very similar to what they’ve done in the past,” Miller said. “We’ll try

and simplify things and make sure we’re all on the same page. I come from a 4-3 background, so we combined what I did at Licking Valley and what they’ve been doing here.”

Moultrie (so., 5-10, 180) Receivers: *Jerome Buckner (so., 5-9, 145), Solomon Pierre-Louis (so., 6-3, 153), Dorrian Moultrie (fr., 5-9, 150) Tight end: *Jack Mills (sr., 6-2, 185) Linemen: *Dalton Porter SPECIAL TEAMS Senior Sam Tuckerman, (sr., 5-11, 192), *Brett Bates who is a captain on the boys (jr., 6-4, 215), *Darren Bates soccer team, returns and will (jr., 6-2, 220), *Jeremiah Mills handle kicking and punting duties. Stringer is the long snapper, and the top return threats are Buckner, Kusi and junior Anthony Sugar.

(614) 784-0800 (jr., 6-2, 210), Max Rocco (jr., 6-1, 232) Defense Linemen: *Porter, *Brett Bates, *Darren Bates, *Damien Steiner (jr., 6-3, 160) Linebackers: *Liam Wainaina (sr., 5-11, 185), *Bellisari, *Stringer Secondary: Mills, *Watters, *Kusi, *Buckner, *Herman

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Moultrie Special teams Kicker: *Sam Tuckerman (sr., 6-1, 200) Punter: *Tuckerman Returners: Anthony Sugar (jr., 5-7, 150), Kusi, Buckner Long snapper: *Stringer (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Matt Watters (sr., 6-0, 180), Nick Stringer (jr., 6-0, 175), Matt Saling (so., 6-0, 190) Running backs: Roman Bellisari (jr., 6-1, 190), Michael Kusi (jr., 5-10, 165), *Herman

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O THER A REA T EAMS

Grandview Heights

Bobcats motivated for longer postseason run By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

the Grandview Heights High School football team rode the wave of emotion that was the Andre Readey was in the Bobcats’ first postseason middle of it all last season, and appearance since 2011 and their fourth overall. can’t wait for more. In the opening round, thirdThe senior quarterback for

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seeded Grandview posted a 3129 home victory over sixthseeded Woodsfield Monroe Central as his brother, 2015 graduate Leo Readey, kicked a 20-yard field goal with 44.2 seconds to play. The next week the Bobcats lost 27-21 to second-seeded Lucasville Valley in a regional semifinal at Nelsonville-York to finish 9-3 overall. “It was a huge thing (in the playoffs) and a great feeling when that happened,” said Andre Readey, whose team tied Bexley and West Jefferson for second (4-2) in the MSL-Ohio Division behind Whitehall (5-1). “We want to have that feeling again and we have worked hard in the offseason so we can get back there again.” The victory over Monroe Central was the program’s first home playoff win and its first in the postseason since defeating Portsmouth Notre Dame 28-7 in 1987. Grandview is now 2-4 all-time in the postseason. “Everyone on the team wants to make it back,” said Rhodes Jump, a senior running back and linebacker. “We’re making sure we do everything we can to have that experience.”

year.” Ninth-year coach Jason Peters has the same philosophy. “We’re back, and we know it’s a new year,” Peters said. “We understand what we need to accomplish and what we need to do to get back. We had a lot of kids play football last year and they’ve been working together. We have hit the ground running and have been able to focus more on football and getting better.”

At a glance *Madison Plains..............W, 29-15 Millersport........................W, 41-0 PLAYOFFS Monroe Central...............W, 31-29 Lucasville Valley ..............L, 27-21 *League contest INSIDE THE BOBCATS •Coach: Jason Peters, ninth season •Top players: Benton Bair (WR/LB), Jordan Beight (RB/DB), Hunter Holland (WR/DB), Glenn Cheney (RB/DB), Rhodes Jump (RB/LB), Joey Landusky (WR/DB), Andre Readey (QB/DB), Thomas Stanley (OL/DL) and Luke Treasure (OL/DL) •Key losses: Ben Jump (RB/DL), Nick Maupin (RB/DB), Christian Meyer (OL/DL), Joe Pinney (RB/DB), Leo Readey (RB/LB), Grant Varner (OL/DL), Jake Walters (OL/DL) and Hank Wilson (OL/DL)

2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...................vs. Centennial Sept. 4...................at Berne Union Sept. 11 ................vs. North Union *Sept. 18 ....at Columbus Academy *Sept. 25.......................at London *Oct. 2 ......................vs. Whitehall *Oct. 9 ..............vs. West Jefferson *Oct. 16.............at Madison Plains Oct. 23 .......at Grove City Christian *Oct. 20 ........................vs. Bexley 2014 RESULTS (9-3 overall, 4-2 MSL-Ohio) Centennial........................W, 14-7 Minford ............................W, 28-6 Fairfield Christian............W, 76-14 *Bexley ...........................L, 42-16 *Columbus Academy.......W, 33-21 *London ...........................W, 41-0 *Whitehall .......................L, 28-20 *West Jefferson..................W, 7-2

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Senior Luke Treasure, who made his mark on both sides of the line during the postseason run, said last season’s success has become a source of motivation for the Bobcats. “Making the playoffs last year was definitely something

See our ad on pg. 91 to be proud of, but we try not to think of last season,” he said. “Rather than set (just getting back to the playoffs) as a goal, we want more. We thought that we could have gone further last year and we’re trying to use that loss to push us further this

Peters said the Bobcats have seven starters back in their multiple offensive attack that contains elements of the wing-T, option and portions of other schemes. Andre Readey (special mention all-district, second-team all-league) is back at quarterback after rushing for 861 yards and 12 touchdowns on 137 carries. He also completed 45 of 106 passes for 754 yards with eight touchdowns and nine interceptions. “Having a year of experience under your belt helps a lot,” he said. “That experience has helped with everything, The reads come a little easier,

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August 27, 2015

O THER A REA T EAMS

Columbus Crusaders

Football just part of equation By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Rhodes Jump, who rushed for 738 yards, will start at running back and linebacker for the Bobcats, who are coming off a 9-3 season. JOSHUA A. BICKEL/THISWEEKSPORTS

BOBCATS

FROM >> 86

and I’m more confident with everything.” Jump (first-team all-district and all-league) returns at running back after rushing for 738 yards and seven touchdowns on 129 carries along with 12 catches for 212 yards and one score. “We’ve been working hard in the weight room and getting conditioned,” Jump said. “We’ve been executing plays really well. We didn’t pass much last year, but (Andre) has a strong arm and we’ll be passing more.” Other returning starters are senior linemen Thomas Stanley and Treasure, who were both second-team all-district and all-league, junior center Donny Casey, and junior wide receivers Jordan Beight and Hunter Holland (19 catches, 128 yards, 1 touchdown). Beight moves to wingback. Ben Fultz played “40 to 45 percent of the snaps” at tackle, according to Peters.

DEFENSE

Readey and senior Glenn Cheney return as starters in the defensive backfield. “For the last two years, we’ve been lucky to have a lot of kids with experience,” Peters said. “They’ve been through it before, and that puts us as coaches in a comfortable position.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Andre Readey (sr.), Joey Landusky (jr.) Running backs: *Rhodes Jump (sr.), Jordan Beight (jr.), Matt Smith (jr.) Receivers: *Benton Bair (sr.), Glenn Cheney (sr.), Jack Dobies (jr.), *Hunter Holland (jr.), Landusky, Hudson Jump (fr.) Tight ends: Grant Hartman (jr.), James Lachey (so.) Linemen: *Thomas Stanley (sr.), *Luke Treasure (sr.), *Donny Casey (jr.), *Ben Fultz (jr.), *Patrick Taylor (jr.) Defense Linemen: *Stanley, *Treasure, *Lachey, *Brandon Spaulding (so.) Linebackers: *Bair, *Jump, *Landusky, Luke Sternecker (jr.) Secondary: *Cheney, *Readey, *Beight Special teams Kicker: Bair Punter: Jump Returners: Beight, Holland, Landusky Long snapper: To be determined (*Denotes projected starter)

The Bobcats have eight starters returning in its 4-2 defensive set. Back the line are Stanley and Treasure, with senior Benton Bair (honorable mention allleague), Jump and junior Joey Landusky (2 interceptions) returning at linebacker. “We’re lucky because we’ve had two or three guys coming back for us again up front,” Peters said. “We have to continue to get better at what we do. You’re never as good as you want to be.” shennen@thisweeknews.com August 27, 2015

As a student at Olentangy High School, Colin Swisher is part of a district that celebrated its greatest football season a year ago when the Braves reached a Division II state semifinal. He believes he’s also gotten to be a part of something special the past few years as a member of the Columbus Crusaders club football program. Swisher, a senior two-way lineman who is in his sixth season with the Crusaders, has grown up with athletes such as junior home-school student Alex Melfe as well as the Bowie family, which has had four brothers play for the Crusaders’ high school team. “I love this program so much,” Swisher said. “I’m in my sixth year playing, and it’s not just about football. (Junior Nehemiah) Bowie and I are in a speaking bureau together where we talk about being men of Christ. We go to churches and to schools.” According to their website, the Crusaders began their program in 1996 as a ministry that “seeks excellence in football balanced with intentional, Biblical character-building.” For those like the Bowies, being a part of the program has been like a lifestyle. Nehemiah is a homeschooled student who played at wide receiver and linebacker a year ago as the Crusaders finished 2-8, including 1-3 against teams that play in the OHSAA. His sophomore brother, Micah Bowie, is expected to be a key contributor this fall in the defensive secondary. They are two in a family that includes seven boys, including 2014 graduate Elijah Bowie, now a defensive back playing for Ohio Dominican. Elijah Bowie is one of more than a dozen athletes to play for the Crusaders who eventually played collegiately. Also on that list is 2011 Horizon Science graduate Harold Jones-Quartey, who went on to play for the University of Findlay and was in camp this summer trying to make the Arizona Cardinals of the NFL as an undrafted free agent safety. “(The Crusaders are) definitely a family,” Nehemiah Bowie said. “Every single one of us know certain things about each other. That’s how close we are.” Bowie and Swisher are hoping there will be more success on the field this fall as well. The Crusaders’ only wins last season were over the Cincinnati Landmark Christian Eagles and Dayton Ponitz Tech. The Eagles are comprised solely of home-schooled students from southwest Ohio and are not a member of OHSAA. Ponitz Tech, which has been in the OHSAA since 2009, is 0-4 all-time against the Crusaders but is not back on the schedule.

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 29..vs. Noblesville (Ind.) Lions at Otterbein Sept. 4 ............................at Galion Sept. 11 .....vs. Grove City Reigning Thunder at Otterbein Sept. 18....................at Whetstone Sept. 25 ..................vs. St. Charles at Otterbein Oct. 2 .................vs. Kingston (Pa.) Wyoming Seminary at Otterbein Oct. 10 ....at Elkhart (Ind.) Christian Oct. 16......at Middletown Christian Oct. 24...at Wheeling (W.Va.) Linsly Oct. 30 ..............vs. Saltsburg (Pa.) Kiski Prep 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall) Indianapolis Lions ..............L, 27-0 Cin. Landmark Christian ....W, 32-6 Kiski Prep .......................L, 47-14

Dayton Meadowdale ........L, 38-14 St. Charles.........................L, 42-0 Wyoming Seminary..........L, 54-28 Greencastle (Ind.) South Putnam .........................................L, 34-6 Dayton Ponitz Tech............W, 41-8 Wheeling (W.Va) Linsly .......L, 38-6 Middletown Christian .......L, 21-12 INSIDE THE CRUSADERS •Coach: Ben Barlow, fourth season •Top players: Nehemiah Bowie (WR), Terry Geiger (WR/DB), Cole Kirby (OL/DL), Elias Markley (WR), Alex Melfe (WR/LB), Colin Swisher (OL/DL), Chase Thompson (OL/DL),Tim Triplett (QB) and Jeremiah Wooten (RB) •Key losses: Anthony Andrews (OL/DL), Noah Armentrout (RB/LB), Carl Jones (WR/DB), Glenn Ransom (OL/DL), Max Roberts (WR/DB) and Don Stinson (RB/DB)

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(614) 784-0800 The OHSAA teams the Crusaders are playing this fall are Galion (Sept. 4), Whetstone (Sept. 18), St. Charles (Sept. 25) and Middletown Christian (Oct. 16). In addition to adding Galion and Whetstone, the Grove City Reigning Thunder (Sept. 11) is a club team the Crusaders will play that is in its first season as a varsity program. The Crusaders have played them at the junior varsity level the last two seasons. “We’re definitely significant steps ahead of where we were last year,” coach Ben Barlow said. “They’ve done a lot of hard work over the summer. We’ve got some really good skilled players, and it’s just a matter of us figuring out our offensive line and defensive line.”

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DEFENSE

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OFFENSE

back in most formations for the Crusaders, who run a spread offensive scheme that often uses four wide receivers. Junior Elias Markley (home schooled) is back after starting eight games last year at wideout, where he’ll join Bowie. Junior Matt Dinning (Arts and College Preparatory Academy) is a “quarterback who is learning to play wide receiver,” according to Barlow. Senior Terry Geiger (Columbus Downtown) is expected to see more time at wide receiver after playing mostly defense last year. Melfe could line up at several positions, including H-Back. The Crusaders’ biggest playmaker last year was 2015 graduate Carl Jones, a Division VII first-team all-district player who finished with 1,412 all-purpose yards.

Junior Tim Triplett (home schooled) is back at quarterback after starting all but one game last season. Sophomore Jeremiah Wooten (Tree of Life) is expected to be the only running

Nehemiah Bowie (DB) and Melfe (LB) each made secondteam all-district last fall. Several two-way linemen, including Swisher and juniors Cole Kirby (Delaware Christian) and Chase Thompson (Westerville North), also should take on key roles.

CRUSADERS >> 88

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CRUSADERS FROM >> 87

THE LINEUP

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Offense Quarterbacks: Matt Dinning (jr., 5-6, 155), *Tim Triplett (jr., 6-4, 195) Running backs: *Jeremiah Wooten (so., 5-11, 181) Receivers: Terry Geiger (sr., 5-8, 167), *Nehemiah Bowie (jr., 6-1, 175), *Dinning, *Elias Markley (jr., 5-10, 137) H-Back: *Alex Melfe (jr., 63, 230) Linemen: *Colin Swisher (sr., 5-7, 270), *Cole Kirby (jr., 6-0, 235), *Chase Thompson (jr., 6-5, 252), *Avery Buttermore (so., 5-6, 214), *Ben Vucelich (fr., 6-0, 240) Defense Linemen: *Swisher, *Kirby, *Thompson, Buttermore, Vucelich Linebackers: *Melfe, *Devin Snyder (jr., 5-8, 202), Jared Bruce (so., 6-0, 175), Sam Chrysler (so., 5-10, 147), Wes Lowry (so., 5-11, 178), Dan Rush (fr., 6-0, 160) Secondary: *Nehemiah Bowie, *Geiger, *Alize McKnight (sr., 5-11, 154), *Micah Bowie (so., 5-11, 165) Special teams Kicker: Matthias Bean (so., 6-0, 160), Bruce Punter: TBD Returners: *Geiger, *Nehemiah Bowie Long snapper: *TBD (*Denotes projected starter)

O THER A REA T EAMS

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .....vs. Amanda-Clearcreek Sept. 4 ....................vs. Northridge Sept. 11 .................at Berne Union Sept. 18 ............................at Utica Sept. 25..........vs. Newark Catholic *Oct. 2 ................vs. Licking Valley *Oct. 9...........at Watkins Memorial *Oct. 16............vs. Licking Heights Oct. 23 ............................at Heath *Oct. 30.......................at Granville 2014 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-3 LCL-Big School) Amanda-Clearcreek ...........L, 42-0 Liberty Union ....................L 48-13 Johnstown.........................L, 37-6 Newark Catholic ................L, 14-6 Heath ..............................L, 37-11

*Licking Heights...............L, 78-14 Northridge ......................W, 33-26 *Granville...........................L, 21-6 *Licking Valley .................L, 68-22 *Watkins Memorial..........W, 29-28 *League contest INSIDE THE LANCERS •Coach: Craig Conley, second season •Top players: Cameron Brooks (WR), Cody Copeland (OL), Mat French (OL/DL), Cole Glaub (QB/DB), Logan Hissong (OL/DL), Austin Myers (WR), David Moody (LB) and Alex Poling (LB) •Key losses: Eddy Boerstler (WR/LB), Zach Cozad (RB/LB), Zac Holbrook (WR/LB/P) and Dalyn Loomis (WR/DL)

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Poling (jr., 5-9, 180) Secondary: *Austin Avery (jr., 5-7, 160), *Scotty Painter (jr., 5-9, 170), *Josh Yost (soph., 5-7, 170), *Glaub Special teams Kicker: TBD Punter: *Painter Returners: TBD Long snapper: *Christian Fahy (soph., 5-8, 175) (*Denotes projected starter)

(sr., 6-3, 315), *Shay French (jr., 6-2, 285), *Austin Givens (soph., 5-8, 220), *Logan Hissong (soph., 6-3, 270) Defense Linemen: *Matt Mohr (jr., 6-1, 190), *James Waters (soph., 6-0, 180), *Mat French, *Hissong Linebackers: *Jason Gardner (sr., 5-8, 215), *David Moody (soph., 5-9, 200), *Alex bemerine@thisweeknews.com

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2130 Tremont Center • Upper Arlington, Ohio 43221 1460 Grandview Ave. • Columbus, Ohio 43212 4621 Reed Rd. • Columbus, Ohio 43220

August 27, 2015

O THER A REA T EAMS

BEARS

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.......................at Tri-Valley Sept. 4 ..........at Duncan Falls Philo Sept. 11..............vs. Bloom-Carroll Sept. 18...........................at Heath Sept. 25 .........vs. Linden-McKinley *Oct. 2 ......................at Lakewood *Oct. 9........................vs. Granville Oct. 16....................vs. Johnstown *Oct. 22 .........at Watkins Memorial *Oct. 30............vs. Licking Heights 2014 RESULTS (8-3 overall, 3-1 LCL-Big School) Tri-Valley ...........................L, 42-6 Duncan Falls Philo...........W, 19-13 Heath ...................W, 42-36 (3 OT) Northridge ........................W, 40-0 Johnstown......................W, 21-13 Utica...............................W, 28-13 *Watkins Memorial ..............L, 9-7

FROM >> 22

nose guard. Pirwitz had 41 tackles last year, including 33 solo and a team-high six sacks. Johnson also should see time at defensive tackle. Junior Mason Myers is among the few veterans at linebacker, one of the more wideopen positions in the preseason. Seniors Matthew Lengel and Christian Weaver, and sophomore Dante Landolfi competed for the other starting positions. “That’s a situation where who is out there will change depending on the packages we are seeing (from opponents),” Cutler said. “We’re looking at an older group defensively. We have great kids competing for jobs.”

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SPECIAL TEAMS

Caldwell and returning senior Jared O’Brien are expected to split kicking duties, while Logan returns as a punter. O’Brien made 21 of 24 extra-point attempts last year. Caldwell was 2-of-2 on field goals and 3-of-3 on extra points, and also averaged 28.5 yards per kickoff return. Logan averaged 39.6 yards per punt.

THE LINEUP

Danny Logan will start at running back and in the secondary for second-year coach Joel Cutler. EAMON QUEENEY/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

5-10, 255), Cole Pirwitz (sr., 6-4, 240), Slade Morley (jr., 61, 245) Defense Linemen: *Pirwitz, *Chris Weaver (sr., 6-0, 240), *Izak Wunderlich (sr., 6-2, 260), *Will Brailer (jr., 6-3, 225), Johnson, Chase Pfister (sr., 61, 220), Nathan Orlandini (jr., 6-0, 240) Linebackers: *Mason Myers (jr., 6-1, 205), *Weaver, *Dante Landolfi (jr., 6-2, 220), Matthew Lengel (sr., 6-1, 200), Kaparos Secondary: *E.J. Caldwell (jr., 6-1, 200), *Johnny Landolfi, *Logan, *Speaight, Matthews, Schuman, Smith Special teams Kicker: *Jared O’Brien (sr., 5-11, 165), Caldwell Punter: *Logan Returners: Caldwell, Matthews, Speight (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Vince Murdocco (sr., 6-1, 200), Riley Cooper (jr., 6-1, 210), Jack Feller (jr., 5-9, 185) Running backs: *Cole Kaparos (sr., 6-1, 200), *Danny Logan (sr., 6-0, 190), *Nicko Schuman (sr., 5-7, 175) Receivers: *Ben Baker (sr., 60, 180), *Tyrece Speaight (sr., 5-11, 190), Christian Matthews (sr., 6-0, 175), Johnny Landolfi (sr., 5-10, 150), Michael Smith (jr., 6-2, 205) Linemen: *Nick Dolan (sr., 5-11, 255), *C.J. Johnson (sr., 6-3, 285), *Alex Turner (sr., 6-3, 240), *Ben Furash (jr., 62, 290), Nick Dinsmore (sr., dpurpura@thisweeknews.com

REDSKINS

FROM >> 78

has given us a lot of options,” said Marston, who was first-team all-district and allleague. “It looks like it’s going one way and then goes the other. The running game opens things up for the passing game, and the pass opens up the run.” Gastin said the change best fits his personnel. “There’s a lot of deception in the wingT and we have a lot of big kids who can run,” he said. “The kids have been openminded and have been willing to do what’s been necessary. They’ve taken ownership on themselves.” Moore is excited to see how the Redskins handle the new alignment. “We’ve had a pretty hard preseason,” said Moore, who was honorable mention all-league last season. “We have new coaches and a new system, and we’ve been working hard trying to make this system work.”

DEFENSE

The Redskins have four starters back in their 4-2 defensive formation. August 27, 2015

*Licking Heights................W, 26-9 *Lakewood .....................W, 68-22 *Granville........................W, 24-17 PLAYOFFS Zanesville Maysville ...........L, 30-7 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS •Coach: Randy Baughman, 34th season •Top players: Elijah Brechbill (WR/DB), Ethan Fout (RB/LB),Tommy Klein (WR), Anthony Moran (WR/LB), Morgan Posey (OL/DL), Garrett Robinson (RB), Braylan Taylor (OL/DL) and Jaqui VanMeter (OL/DL) •Key losses: Mason Brehm (OL/LB), Damon Hupp (WR/DB), Nathan Loper (LB), Tyler Nethers (QB/DB), Bo Redman (DL) and Hayden Walpole (OL/DL)

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PANTHERS FROM >> 73

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...............at Dublin Jerome Sept. 4 ...........................at Mason Sept. 11 ...........vs. Brantford (Ont.) North Park Collegiate *Sept. 18 ...at Thomas Worthington *Sept. 25.......vs. Olentangy Liberty *Oct. 2............vs. Central Crossing *Oct. 9.............at Hilliard Davidson *Oct. 16 ...................vs. Marysville *Oct. 23 ......................at Westland *Oct. 30 ...........vs. Dublin Coffman 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 3-4 OCC-Central) Dublin Jerome ..................W, 36-0 Whetstone ........................W, 51-9 Gahanna..........................L, 41-14 *Thomas Worthington........W, 42-6 *Olentangy Liberty ...........L, 22-21

*Central Crossing.............L, 35-21 *Hilliard Davidson ..............L, 26-7 *Marysville .......................W, 14-7 *Westland.......................W, 35-14 *Dublin Coffman ..............L, 20-19 *League contest INSIDE THE BEARS •Coach: Joel Cutler, second season •Top players: E.J. Caldwell (DB/K), C.J. Johnson (OL/DL), Cole Kaparos (RB/LB), Danny Logan (RB/DB/P), Vince Murdocco (QB), Cole Pirwitz (TE/DE), Nicko Schuman (RB/DB) and Tyrece Speaight (WR/DB) •Key losses: Coleson Carmell (LB), Kyle Kaparos (QB), Jack Pardi (WR/DB), Jackson Pfister (TE/DE), Brady Rothgeb (WR) and Drew Snouffer (RB/LB)

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up basketball game. “We feel like we have some good skill people,” Baughman said. “We don’t have the big, burly linemen that we sometimes have, but they’re quick. We want to spread things out and make the defense cover more ground.” Junior Zack Hatfield and sophomore Jake Lewis are competing to start at quarterback.

DEFENSE

Licking Valley, which uses a 4-3 base defense, returns seniors Morgan Posey, Taylor and VanMeter on the defensive line. Robinson will return at lineFurnace backer when healthy and Brechbill is back at strong Tune-Up safety. Not valid with any other discounts “We’ll rotate players on the Liberty and Comfort for All or special offers. Expires 11-30-15 offensive and defensive lines,” (614) 784-0800 Baughman said. “We have See our ad on pg. 91 guys stepping up, creating competition between each other and making everyone better. “It’s the most competition that we’ve had in a while, Marston and Gleckler return on the line. 190), *Pierce Piazza (sr., 5-10, 200), *Brad which is good because we only have 48 kids in grades 10-12. In the secondary, seniors Peyton Snow Keener (jr., 6-1, 200) Receivers: *Mitchell Marston (sr., 6- That’s not a high number, but (safety) and Josh Dassylva (cornerback) the competition will go a long 5, 200), *Cole Maxwell (sr., 6-3, 175) are back. Linemen: *Kamron Gleckler (sr., 6-0, way to help out our depth.” “We’re leading by example now as seniors,” Marston said. “We have young guys, 190), *Matt Moore (jr., 6-0, 270), Josh but have enough older guys who are able Cotter (so., 6-0, 325), Gage Pack (so., 6THE LINEUP to teach young guys what they need to do 0, 230), *Gavin Posey (so., 6-5, 240), Offense *R.J. Snyder (so., 5-7, 200), Chad Vonand the work they need to put in.” Quarterbacks: Zack Hatfield The defense features several sopho- doch (so., 6-2, 310) (jr., 6-0, 190), Jake Lewis (so., Defense mores who expect to see significant time, 6-1, 165) L i n e m e n : *Gleckler, *Marston, *Moran, including linemen Gage Pack, Gavin Posey Running backs: Ethan Fout and R.J. Snyder, linebacker Jarrett Miller, Moore, Pack, Posey, Snyder Linebackers: Hoover, Crew Young (sr., and defensive backs Josh Dickson and 5-10, 175), Keener, Jarrett Miller (so., 5Tristan Warthman. “We’re going to have four sophomores 10, 175) Secondary: *Dassylva, *Peyton Snow in the mix on the offensive line and as many as eight sophomores on defense,” (sr. 5-10, 150), Chase Smith (jr. 5-8, 140), FROM >> 66 Gastin said. “We have a good sophomore Josh Dickson (so. 5-9, 155), Tristan Warth*Quincy Colvin (sr., 5-7, 245), man (so. 6-2, 180) class that has a good attitude.” Malik Johnson, Mcmillan, DarSpecial teams ryl Wilson (sr., 6-0, 190) Kicker: *Moran THE LINEUP Linebackers: *Via, *Bernard Punter: *Marston Offense Banaga (jr., 5-11, 205), *RamReturners: Dassylva, Snow Quarterbacks: Tony Hoover (jr., 6-0, sey, Calvin Twyman (jr., 5-11, Long snapper: *Moore 170) *Brad Potes (so., 5-10, 160) 165), Trevon Hughes (jr., 5-10, (*Denotes projected starter) Running backs: Josh Dassylva (sr., 6205) 0, 175), Hoover, Brock Moran (sr., 6-2, shennen@thisweeknews.com Secondary: *Jones, *Jack-

(sr., 5-11, 180), *Garrett Robinson (sr., 5-10, 200), Gunnar Carpenter (so., 5-9, 140), *Bailey Hayden (so., 5-9, 165) Receivers: *Elijah Brechbill (sr., 5-10, 175), *Tommy Klein (sr., 6-2, 175), Anthony Moran (sr., 6-1, 180), Carpenter Tight end: *Luke Kozlowski (sr., 5-11, 190) Linemen: Morgan Posey (sr., 6-0, 205), Hunter Sensabaugh (sr., 6-0, 200), *Braylan Taylor (sr., 6-0, 275), *Jaqui VanMeter (sr., 6-2, 280), Colton Hughes (jr., 6-1, 210), Hunter Priest (jr., 6-2, 240) Defense Linemen: *Posey, *Taylor, Sensabaugh, *VanMeter, Cole McKee (jr., 5-10, 240), Austin Collins (so., 6-0, 210), Hughes, Priest Linebackers: *Fout, Trent McArtor (sr., 5-10, 170), Josh Montgomery (sr., 5-11, 180), *Robinson, Briar Hartshorn (jr., 5-11, 170), Secondary: Alec Baughman (sr., 5-11, 140), *Brechbill, Moran, Grant McHugh (jr., 510, 170), Ethan Brechbill (so., 5-10, 155) Special teams Kicker: *Elijah Brechbill Punter: *Baughman Returners: Elijah Brechbill, Ethan Brechbill, Carpenter, Hayden Long snappers: Montgomery, Taylor (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com

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son, *Crockett, *Terry Johnson, French, Wheeler, Laquan Brothers (jr., 5-10, 160), Napoleon Harris (fr., 6-2, 180) Special teams Kicker: *Colvin Punter: *Colvin Long snapper: *Via (*Denotes projected starter) sports@thisweeknews.com

Page 89

BLUE ACES FROM >> 74

DEFENSE

The Blue Aces have returned eight starters on defense, although junior Jake Purdy is moving from the line to linebacker in the 46 Bear scheme. Joining him at linebacker are seniors Hunter Brown, Andrew Bubnar and Braeden Leigh. Up front will be senior Zac LaRussa, junior Mathieu Holt and Parkinson. Junior Travis Wollenberg will be in the secondary with Winston, Jack Peterson and Jake Peterson. Wollenberg was secondteam all-district and all-league last season, and Winston was special mention all-district and second-team all-league. “Purdy has been very solid thus far and Bubnar is a returning starter at linebacker,” Wait said. “Holt is very solid up front and Winston is certainly a leader in the defensive backfield. We have a nice blend of experience and youth, but for us to reach our goals, the young kids are going to have to grow up in a hurry.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Drew Maxwell will do the kicking and Wollenberg is expected to be the punter. Freshman Trent Compton is the long-snapper, and Reed and Dilger will be the punt and kickoff returners.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Kyle Zies

O THER A REA T EAMS

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ......vs. Thornville Sheridan Sept. 4 ........at Eastmoor Academy Sept. 11 .........................vs. Heath Sept. 19.......................at Jackson Sept. 25 .................vs. Johnstown Oct. 2 ...............................at Utica *Oct. 9 .................at Licking Valley *Oct. 16 .......vs. Watkins Memorial *Oct. 23 ............at Licking Heights *Oct. 30...................vs. Lakewood 2014 RESULTS (8-3 overall, 3-1 LCL-Big School) Caledonia River Valley.....W, 15-14 Heath.............................W, 21-12 Cambridge .......................W, 23-6 Johnstown ......................L, 24-21 Utica ..............................W, 34-13 *Watkins Memorial .........W, 40-30 *Licking Heights .............W, 26-21 *Lakewood.......................W, 21-6

Newark Catholic .............W, 32-14 *Licking Valley.................L, 24-17 PLAYOFFS Athens ............................L, 65-14 *League contest INSIDE THE BLUE ACES •Coach: J.R. Wait, seventh season •Top players: Thomas McGrath (DL), Nate Miller (OL/DL), David Parkinson (OL/DL), Jack Peterson (WR/DB), Jake Peterson (QB/DB), Grant Porterfield (OL/DL), Michael Reed (WR), Thaddeus Winston (WR/DB) and Kyle Zies (QB) •Key losses: Kyle Bundy (RB/DL), Austin Finley (DE), Christian McDermott (RB/DB), Jett Nye (RB/LB), Patrick Oehlman (RB/LB), Ashton Plute (WR/DB), Brandon Priest (OL/DL), Trevor Steyn (RB/DB) and Sam Stone (WR)

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(614) 784-0800 (sr.), Cameron Crouch (fr.) Running backs: *Brandon Haley (fr.), Cole Jacquith (sr.), Michael Reed (so.) Receivers: *Drew Dilger (sr.), *Jake Peterson (jr.), *Thaddeus Winston (sr.), *Reed, Colin Mulford (sr.), Bob Compton (so.), Keegan VanMeter (fr.) Linemen: *Alex Eckels (jr.), *Nick Kurek (jr.), *Nate Miller (so.), *David Parkinson (so.), *Grant Porterfield (so.), Aaron Holbrook (sr.), Mathieu Holt (jr.), Trent Compton (fr.) Defense Linemen: *Holt, *Zac LaRussa (sr.), Hunter Brown (sr.), Andrew Bubnar (sr.)

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See our ad on pg. 91 Linebackers: *Brown, *Bubnar, *Braeden Leigh (sr.), *Jake Purdy (jr.), Patrick Chaykowski (so.), Thomas McGrath (sr.), Jarred Melick (sr.), Tommy Wolfe (fr.) Secondary: *Jack Peterson, *Jake Peterson, *Winston, *Travis Wollenberg (jr.), Alex James (sr.), B. Compton, VanMeter Special teams Kicker: *Drew Maxwell (sr.) Punter: *Wollenberg Returners: *Reed, *Dilger Long snapper: *T. Compton (*Denotes projected starter) bemerine@thisweeknews.com

PIONEERS FROM >> 84

OFFENSE

anchor the front four of the 42 defense next to tackles McKenna and Thorpe. Senior Michael Rowe or junior Daniel Gowans will play the other end. Probable starting linebackers are Sullivan and juniors Austin Fooce and Hunter Maynard. Thorpe moved to defensive tackle from linebacker during the summer. “We did lose a lot of linemen from last year, and so we have had guys needing to step up,” said the 6-1, 205-pound Thorpe. “I gained about 20 pounds. They are totally different positions. “There are different reads for each position. At tackle, you are reading how the guard moves. At linebacker, you are reading the guard and the flow of the play. There are a lot of mental and physical aspects.” Junior safety Andrew Koenig is the only returning starter in the secondary. He will be joined at safety by junior Nate Sullivan or sophomore Brian Blacka.

Receivers: *Trey Pugh (jr., 6-5, 215), *Andrew Koenig (jr., 6-2, 175), Cody Hamer (sr., 60, 145), Dean Karkut (sr., 6-0, 140) Linemen: *Jake McGlaughlin (sr., 6-0, 240), *Riley McKenna (sr., 5-11, 210), *Jake Pollom (sr., 6-5, 330), *Luke Puckett (sr., 5-7, 235), *Zeke Thorpe (sr., 6-1, 205), Christian Hipp (sr., 6-0, 225), Casey Yutzy (jr., 5-9, 220), Defense Linemen: *McKenna, *Pugh, *Thorpe, *Daniel Gowans (jr., 5-10, 185), Andrew Reasoner (sr.), Michael Rowe (sr., 5-11, 190), Yutzy Linebackers: *S. Sullivan, *Fooce, *Hunter Maynard (jr., 5-9, 180) Secondary: *Shane Blacka (sr., 5-9, 160), *Karkut, *Koenig, *N. Sullivan, Connor Hamer (sr., 6-0, 150), Brian Blacka (so., 5-10, 145), Matthew Seimer (jr., 6-3, 155) Special teams Kicker: Nick Salzler (jr., 58, 140), Ethan Gordin (so.) Punter: Eisnaugle, N. Sullivan Returners: Koenig, S. Sullivan, B. Blacka, Dalton Potts (so., 5-7, 135) Long snapper: Gowans, Maynard (*Denotes projected starter)

In addition to Sullivan pacing the ground game last year in Jonathan Alder’s pistol offense, Pugh caught 30 passes for 409 yards and three touchdowns in eight games and was named second-team all-district. Most other positions on offense were up for grabs. Junior Colton Swick and sophomore Preston Eisnaugle vied for the starting quarterback job, and the offensive line lost all five starters. Seniors Jake McGlaughlin (G), Riley McKenna (G/T), Jake Pollom (LT), Luke Puckett (C) and Thorpe (G/T) are among the favorites to start on the line with junior center/guard Casey Yutzy. “We have always said we are not going to play our five best (on the line). We are going to play our best five and see how they work together,” Glass said. “Colton and Preston (were) in a neck-and-neck competition. THE LINEUP They’re similar guys. We had Offense a stretch probably in the last 10 Quarterbacks: Colton Swick years where we had two three- (jr., 6-3, 185), Preston Eisnauyear starters in a row. The last gle (so., 5-11, 145) three years, we have had a oneRunning backs: *Sean Sulyear starter every year.” livan (sr., 5-9, 175), *Austin Fooce (jr., 6-0, 215), *Jamie DEFENSE Dye (so., 5-8, 150), Nate Suldpurpura@thisweeknews.com Pugh, a defensive end, will livan (jr., 5-9, 145) Page 90

GREEN WAVE FROM >> 77

installed this summer at the 77year-old facility, the home stadium for both the Green Wave and Newark. The Green Wave opens league play in the renamed LCL-Cardinal on Oct. 3 against Heath at White Field.

OFFENSE

Senior Kris Goodman, who started at quarterback in a handful of games last year before being injured, was the preseason frontrunner to take back the position. He was succeeded by senior Jack Wollenberg, who totaled 377 passing yards and 444 rushing yards on 93 carries. Jurden had 91 carries for 444 yards, and primarily will play fullback this year. Senior Cole Buchanan ran for more than 300 yards and will share time with, among others, junior Riley Whitaker. Newark Catholic has what Franks called “a slew of returning receivers” in Wollenberg, seniors Hunter Davis, Austin Kent and Jud Lewis and junior Tanner Lake. Cavinee returns at offensive tackle to anchor a line that also includes senior Ryan Allyn (G) and juniors Drake Nance (G), Nick Gialdini (C), Connor Sheehan (G), Ben Russ (T) and Tyke Wilson (G). “Last year, we came in run heavy, but normally we are balanced,” Franks said. “This year, we are making a real effort to be as balanced as we can be. We like to have multiple ball carriers out of the pistol, and we are looking to throw the ball as well. We are utilizing downfield runners with jet sweeps and passing.”

DEFENSE

A 4-2-5 defense from which Franks expects versatility is led by Cavinee at defensive end and Jurden at weak-side linebacker. Lewis, junior safety Grant Rausch and Wollenberg return to lead the secondary, behind expected starters Buchanan at strong-side linebacker and Nance at middle linebacker. Cavinee and Sheehan lead the ends, with Allyn and Wilson among the top tackles. “We were very young on

At a glance 2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........at Portsmouth West Sept. 5 ............vs. Nelsonville-York Sept. 11......at Columbus Academy Sept. 19 ...........vs. Licking Heights Sept. 25 ....................at Lakewood *Oct. 3............................vs. Heath *Oct. 8 .....................at Johnstown *Oct. 16 ............................at Utica *Oct. 24...................vs. Northridge Oct. 31 .........vs. Watkins Memorial 2014 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 2-2 LCL-Small) Portsmouth West.................W, 7-0 Nelsonville-York...................L, 9-0 Fisher Catholic ..................W, 13-3 Lakewood.........................W, 14-6 Watkins Memorial..............L, 10-3 *Heath.............................L, 17-16

*Johnstown .......................L, 10-0 *Northridge.......................W, 34-6 Granville ..........................L, 32-14 *Utica ...............................W, 20-6 *League contest INSIDE THE GREEN WAVE •Coach: Bill Franks, 14th season •Top players: Ryan Allyn (OL/DL), Cole Buchanan (RB/LB), Nick Cavinee (OL/DL/P), Kris Goodman (QB), Tanner Lake (WR/QB/DB), Wes Jurden (RB/LB) and Jack Wollenberg (WR/DB) •Key losses: Blake Baker (RB/DB), Derek Bielecki (WR/LB), Luke Ceneviva (WR/LB), Zach Kent (WR/LB), Austin Miller (TE/LB) and Mitch Willis (OL/LB)

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defense last year. That was part of going 5-5, just that we didn’t have much experience,” Jurden said. “All but one defensive lineman is back. We had to replace a lot of our secondary, but it is strong. And our linebacking corps, I return. But all the positions we filled are filled with strong players.” Newark Catholic allowed more than 17 points only once and held eight teams to 14 points or fewer. “We’re a base look. It’s an even defense and we can be an eight-man front or a seven-man front,” Franks said. “What’s happened with these multiple offense is that you have to be able to play almost anything. We start sometimes with two safeties and then go down to one.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Heath McCarthy returns for his second season at kicker, with juniors Nate Liesen and Wilson as backups. Cavinee also returns to punt, after averaging 36.9 yards per attempt in 2014.

THE LINEUP

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Running backs: *Cole Buchanan (sr., 6-0, 171), *Wes Jurden (sr., 5-11, 191), *Riley Whitaker (jr., 6-0, 195), Kyle Gibson (jr., 6-2, 197), Grant Rausch (jr., 5-6, 157) Receivers: *Jack Wollenberg (sr., 6-2, 170), *Tanner Lake (jr., 6-1, 151), Connor Cramer (sr., 5-9, 153), Hunter Davis (sr., 5-11, 148), Austin Kent (sr., 6-0, 145), Jud Lewis (sr., 5-11, 150) Linemen: *Ryan Allyn (sr., 6-2, 249), *Nick Cavinee (sr., 6-7, 245), *Nick Gialdini (jr., 5-11, 195), *Drake Nance (jr., 6-0, 190), *Ben Russ (jr., 6-3, 223), Nate McNabb (sr., 5-11, 216), Connor Sheehan (jr., 60, 197), Tyke Wilson (jr., 6-0, 254) Defense Linemen: *Allyn, *Cavinee, *Sheehan, *Wilson Linebackers: *Buchanan, *Jurden, *Nance, Sam Bending (jr., 5-9, 175) Secondary: *Lewis, *Wollenberg, *Nolan Jurden (jr., 510, 159), *Rausch, Cramer, Lake Special teams Kicker: *Heath McCarthy (sr., 5-10, 146), Nate Liesen (jr., 5-10, 143), Wilson Punter: *Cavinee, Lake Returners: To be determined Long snapper: Buchanan (*Denotes projected starter)

Offense Quarterbacks: *Kris Goodman (sr., 6-1, 168), Tanner Lake (sr., 5-11, 148), Hunter dpurpura@thisweeknews.com Chapman (so., 6-5, 174)

VIKINGS FROM >> 78

in doubt until his return.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Alex Webb (sr., 5-11, 170), Daniel Hatfield (jr. 6-3, 170) Running backs: Ethan Chalfant (sr., 5-10, 170), Sam Doran (sr., 5-11, 175), Hunter Corbin (jr., 5-11, 175), Logan Garee (jr., 5-11, 170), Gage Linkous (jr., 5-9, 200) Receivers: Brenton Ickes

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(sr., 5-6, 145), Gunner Absten (jr., 6-0, 180), Isaac Marinchek (jr., 6-4, 160), Chris Absten (so., 5-8, 140), William Cox (so., 6-1, 155), Nick Hatten (so., 5-7, 150) Linemen: *Logan Parker (sr., 5-10, 250), *Sam Shults (sr., 5-10, 255), *Austin Chambers (jr., 5-11, 250), Trevor Roach (jr., 5-10, 180), Austin White (jr., 6-2, 210), Drew Davison (so., 6-0, 180) Defense Linemen: Parker, Shults, Chambers, Roach, White, John

Berkley (so., 5-8, 200) Linebackers: Doran, Webb, Corbin, Linkous Secondary: Ickes, Gunner Absten, Garee, Hatfield, Marinchek, Chris Absten, Hatten Special teams Kicker: Tristan Foor* Punter: Corbin, Hatten Returners: Doran, Ickes, Corbin, Garee, Hatten, Long snapper: *Doran, Davison (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com

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