2011 Prep Football Preview

THE TRIBUNE’S 2011 PREP FOOTBALL PREVIEW

YOUR GUIDE TO THE TEAMS, PLAYERS AND GAMES TO WATCH THIS SEASON

A NEW ERA Well, newish. Roosevelt has a new coach, but don’t expect the Rough Riders to abandon the hard-nosed style and hard-hitting approach his father established. PAGE 3

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

WHAT’S INSIDE

SPARTANS’ BLUEPRINT Greeley Central uses its crosstown rival’s formula for success to close the gap on West. PAGE 4

READY TO GO

The Windsor Wizards and two of the team’s stars are ‘in a good place’ and ready to make some noise this year in the Class 3A Tri-Valley Conference.

PAGE 6

RELOADING

Class 2A Patriot League rivals Eaton and Platte Valley head into the season with new faces behind center but high expectations for team success. PAGE 8

PLUS

» Season previews for 16 Weld teams » The Do’s and Don’ts of the 2011 season » Ten games you won’t want to miss this fall

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Prep preview

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Cover story

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■■Northern Exposure: Roosevelt’s new coach

New name, same game

By Bobby Fernandez

bfernandez@greeleytribune.com

R

oosevelt is welcoming a new era.

In many ways, it looks a lot like the previous one.

In fact, the era may be new, but the attitude, the intensity, the bulk of the coaching staff? Not so new.

Even though longtime head coach Ed Eastin retired after his 15th season with Roosevelt a year ago, Rough Riders fans can expect more of the hard-hitting, bone-crushing, full-effort, full-energy playing style that has made Roosevelt a perennial contender, even after moving from Class 2A to 3A three years ago.

Ed’s son, Noland, is taking the head coaching reins from his father this fall after years of serving as an assistant coach for the Rough Riders.

Though Noland will no doubt introduce his own wrinkles and philosophies, much of what Roosevelt does this season will resemble the same hard-nosed, workman-like style that his father established as the head man for the Rough Riders during the past couple of decades.

“One thing I think people know about us is we’re not going to back down to anybody. This group definitely won’t do that,” said Noland, who also teaches physical education and health at Roosevelt. “It’s been going on for 15 years. All we want to do is continue the tradition. ... We’re going to give it a new flavor and new twist but still try to maintain who we are.”

For years, Noland and his brother Nathan — who remains an assistant coach — have served under their father as members of the Roosevelt coaching staff.

Noland’s role has grown throughout the years. Last year, he took over the offense.

“If it was just someone random (taking over), it might be kind weird,” Roosevelt senior nose tackle Andrew Tovar said. “But Noland, he’s been around forever.”

Senior running back Marcus Holguin said the transition

ERIC BELLAMY/ebellamy@greeleytribune.com

Juan Sanchez runs the ball in practice at Roosevelt on Saturday in Johnstown.

period every program experiences when switching coaches should be greatly accelerated in this instance with the Rough Riders

being taken over by a familiar face who has plenty of knowledge of Roosevelt’s physical, hardhitting style of play and just as

much knowledge of the players themselves.

“Noland has been here for a while and he’s been around all the kids,” Holguin said. “I think everyone feels comfortable with him taking over. There’s not much of a difference. He’ll take some things and do them his own way, but for the most part, it’s the same atmosphere.”

Senior center Alex Davis said the entire team has assisted with Noland’s transition by entering this season the most focused and energetic they have been at the start of the season in years.

“In the last four years, since I’ve been here, it seems like this is the highest the energy has been,” Davis said. “We’re hungry.

We want to go out there and play some football. It’s been a long offseason.”

Just because it’s a “transition year” doesn’t mean it can’t be a highly successful season. Quite the contrary.

Running back Christian Kratz said he and the rest of the seniors are determined to go out with a bang.

“For all the years that I’ve been here, this team really seems special,” he said. “It feels like the energy is high and everyone has the one goal of winning.”

A year ago, Roosevelt engineered an impressive 9-2 season, falling in the first round of the state playoffs, 12-0, to the same Frederick team they beat 28-14 earlier in the season.

Senior safety Dylan Cunningham said the Rough Riders are determined not just to get back to the playoffs, but to do some damage in the postseason.

“All of us are really excited to capitalize on what we did last year,” he said. “We really had a positive season last year but kind of gave up some stuff in the end.

I think we’re ready for this year.

We’re really hungry, especially knowing we’re playing the team that knocked us out (Frederick) in the middle of the season (on Sept. 30 in Johnstown). That’s going to be big for us. That’s probably going to be the biggest game of the year for us.”

Details

Class 3A Northern Conference ■ Roosevelt Rough Riders

COACH: Noland Eastin, first season 2010 RECAP: Roosevelt had a strong season, finishing with a 4-1 record in Northern Conference play, 9-2 overall. The Rough Riders’ season ended in somewhat disappointing fashion with Roosevelt falling 12-0 to Frederick in the first round.

KEY PLAYERS: RB Christian Kratz, sr.; C Alex Davis, sr.; FS Dylan Cunningham, sr.; NT Andrew Tovar, sr.; RB Marcus Holguin, sr.

2011 OUTLOOK: After years as an assistant, Noland takes over for his father, Ed Eastin, who coached Roosevelt for 15 years. Noland inherits a program with a reputation for enforcing its will on offense while playing a tough, physical style on defense. With Noland calling the plays on offense, Roosevelt used a more wide-open option attack. The Rough Riders are chock-full of experienced seniors, positioning them for another run to the postseason with potential to make noise in the playoffs.

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Class 4A

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Aug. 26, 2011

■■Closing the gap: Greeley Central follows Greeley West’s blueprint

Spartans show the way Details

By Samuel G. Mustari

smustari@greeleytribune.com

T

he Greeley Central football team exited the practice fields late last week with a little sense of urgency, an obvious giddy-up in its step and a nod that exemplified an elevated level of confidence from years past.

Is it time?

Mike Heatherly, in his sixth season of finding the missing pieces to the Wildcats’ puzzle, senses it might be.

However, the optimism is sprinkled with caution.

It’s been more than 10 years since anybody besides Greeley West has worn the football crown in the city.

The Spartans have qualified for the postseason more times than crosstown rival Greeley Central, have produced at least two times more NCAA Division I players, and have had a stranglehold on bragging rights.

Nobody openly admits it, but truth be told, everybody wants to be like West.

The Spartans do more than flirt with the postseason. They routinely kiss the playoffs right smack on the lips, are considered one of the top Class 4A programs in the state — even in a down season, as in 2010 when they were 5-5 and missed the playoffs by just one victory — and are more often considered contenders instead of pretenders.

All the elements that contribute to the Spartans’ consistent success are attainable.

To take it one step farther, Heatherly has a suspicion that his club is closing the gap toward it finally being a king ready to trek the steps to the self-proclaimed “Castle,” affectionately known as Greeley Central.

“We really noticed after today’s practice, going into a zero week with a game coming up, that we have our entire offense installed, we’re finished with two-a-day practices and are really headed in the right direction,” Heatherly said.

Are the Wildcats that much ahead of where they were six years ago when Heatherly came on board with a plan to revitalize a program that could arguably have found a comfort zone in mediocrity while battling a learning curve that had somehow mirrored a half-moon?

“We feel like we’re ahead of the curve,” Heatherly said. “There’s really no more second-guessing. We really picked up our fall camp without missing a beat from July camp, when we had all of our players and coaches together. It’s something that we really started four years ago.”

Heatherly and longtime Greeley West coach Mark Roggy are on the same page when it comes to analyzing what it takes to become one of the teams in the top echelon of the always-rugged Northern Conference and what’s necessary to stay there.

Class 4A Northern Conference

Photos by JIM RYDBOM/jrydbom@greeleytribune.com

Greeley West’s David Eddy breaks a tackle while playing Loveland last

season at District 6 Stadium.

Veteran coaching staffs

Greeley West senior quarterback Brandon Gallatin passes

during practice this year at the Greeley West practice fields.

Heatherly explained that four of his coaches teach at Greeley Central, an element he hasn’t had the luxury of since taking over the program.

Roggy, who has retired from teaching, has just one coach in the building, but he has a group that has been together for at least a handful of seasons, including offensive coordinator Kay Dalton and defensive coordinator Don Edick, who has been on Roggy’s staff for 20 seasons.

“I’m kind of the pup on this staff,” said Roggy, starting his 19th season as the Spartans’ head coach. “We won’t see a defense that (former University of Northern Colorado head coach Kay Dalton, with more than 50 years of coaching experience) hasn’t seen, my dad (Ron) has been in coaching for 50 years, and the rest of our guys haven been together for at least five or six years now.”

Heatherly experienced similar situations in Pueblo and Colorado Springs, and is finally working with a veteran staff at Greeley Central.

“I believe you need to build a program from the inside out,” Heatherly said. “Having all your coaches in the building these days is really unheard of, so we feel great to have four.”

■ Greeley Central Wildcats COACH: Mike Heatherly, sixth season 2010 RECAP: The Wildcats broke even, finishing 5-5 overall and 2-4 in conference (fifth).

KEY PLAYERS: QB Shawn Dixon, jr.; WR/DE Shane O’Connell, sr.; WR/DB Forest Desmond, sr.; OL/ DL Travis McMurren, sr.; LB/HB Julian Retana, sr.; OL/DL Isaac Williams, sr.; OL/DL Ryan Magnuson, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Heatherly said he expects his team to remain competitive in the alwaystough Northern Conference.

Central has some inexperience in various positions, but Heatherly said what the players lack in experience, they make up for with raw talent, which should make for an interesting season.

■ Greeley West Spartans COACH: Mark Roggy, 19th season 2010 RECAP: The Spartans failed to advance to the postseason with a 5-5 record. It was the first time in six seasons the team missed the playoffs.

KEY PLAYERS: QB Brandon Gallatin, sr.; WR/DB James Dowgin, sr.; WR/DB Tyler Fick, sr.; FB/LB Levi Dopler, sr.; TE/LB Zach Downing, sr.; DE/TE Austin Waterman, jr.; RB/LB David Eddy, jr.; RB/DB Tre Howard, sr.; DE/ TE Jalen Davis, sr.; P/PK Grant Buchanan, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: The Spartans are playoff hungry after missing out last season. Roggy feels like the offensive line will determine how successful the team is. “We’re going to be fast and skilled, and we have kids who can be game-breakers,” Roggy said. “However, if we’re not competitive up front, we won’t be very good. I think we can be salty on special teams, too, and I have high expectations, but everything has to come together and we have to stay healthy.”

Aug. 26, 2011

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Class 4A

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An abundance of interest and participation

Both schools have complete rosters that are around the 100-player figure, including freshmen.

“We’re rolling,” Heatherly said. “It would surprise people to know that some established programs like Niwot and Skyline have trouble fielding junior varsity teams.

We love our numbers, and we have the kids in our school who should be and are on our football team. Not only are they out for the team, they’re getting after it.”

Roggy is the beneficiary of open-enrollment, which works hand-in-hand with success.

“It certainly gives you a better chance to be successful,” Roggy said. “The bottom line is that you want to get the best kids on the team.”

Greeley West’s cycle of success has included some of the school’s all-time best players, evidenced by nearly a half-dozen former Spartans on current NCAA Division I rosters.

“When you have more bullets to fire, it helps,” Roggy said. “It’s important in our conference. You can be Vince Lombardi, and if you don’t have good players, you won’t win.”

Heatherly conceded that there have been seasons when there’s been a “talent disparity” between the two schools, adding, “I’m not knocking Greeley West at all, but until you knock down the giant, it’s tough to get some kids to come your way.”

Roggy agreed, stating, “Some years, we’ve had a lot more talent than in other years, but we’ve had decent numbers for quite awhile. We’ve had good core players.

The more core players you have, the more successful you’ll be because you’re able to overcome injuries with more depth.”

Photos by ERIC BELLAMY/ebellamy@greeleytribune.com

Greeley Central’s Emmet Secret fights for extra yardage at practice last week in Greeley.

Quality players who understand the game

“We’ve had quality kids, and I feel like we have a good core of kids this season,” Heatherly said. “Players find their role and that’s how we define them.”

The Wildcats will call on junior quarterback Shawn Dixon to lead their charge along with senior wide receiver/defensive end Shane O’Connell and senior wide receiver/defensive back Forrest Desmond.

Seniors Julian Retana (running back/linebacker) and Ryan Magnuson (offensive/ defensive line) will also be called on heavily.

“It seems like we’re working at a faster pace because everybody knows our system now,” Desmond said. “We’ve run the same offense since my freshman year, and everybody knows their assignments. It’s helped a lot to also have the same coaches every year.”

Desmond went so far as to state he visualizes the Wildcats getting to the postseason, minus any injuries or major setbacks.

“Right now, we have more confidence than we’ve had in the past at this time of the year that we’re going to have a pretty good team,” Desmond said. “Our offensive line is all seniors, and we’ve got a lot of

Greeley Central quarterback Shawn Dixon runs through passing drills at practice .

beef up there. Ryan Magnuson and Isaac Williams are the core up there. Magnuson squats 500 pounds, and he’s one of our fastest offensive linemen.

“It starts up front, and hopefully these guys can lead us to the playoffs.”

Heatherly agrees, but he also knows it will take his team’s best performances on a consistent basis for it to get over the hump.

“Everybody knows that to be successful, you have to step up,” Heatherly said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re No. 1, 2 or 3 on the depth chart, you can be called on at any time.”

Roggy has utilized the same theory for a long time, and it seems like when the Spartans graduate a strong class of seniors, another one is waiting in the wings.

This year’s offense will take its cues from senior quarterback Brandon Gallatin, wideouts James Dowgin and Tyler Fick, and running back David Eddy, while the defense will again field an impressive group of defenders led by senior linebackers Levi Dopler and Zach Downing along with defensive ends Jalen Davis and Austin Waterman.

“To me, being successful has always been expected at Greeley West,” Downing said.

“We come into camp with the idea that we’re definitely going to have a great team.”

Downing didn’t hesitate to explain the continuity of West’s coach staff as a plus.

“We’ve got top-notch coaches, that’s for sure,” Downing said. “I’ve never been let down in any facet of the program.

“When we go to camps, it helps our team come together, and then when we get to our own preseason camp, we’re ready to play football.”

Downing will accept any role he’s given, but adds, “All of our seniors have really stepped it up. We’re really together and seem to be clicking really well already.”

Roggy points out that the Spartans also have another valuable weapon in punter/ place-kicker Grant Buchanan.

“We’ve been the better team around here for awhile, but we should be,” Roggy said.

“We’ve been fortunate to have really good athletes on our football team.”

Heatherly didn’t disagree, adding, “We haven’t been competitive enough at times to suit my needs, but this group seems to have that. We competed well with Greeley West for about three quarters last season.

That has to change.

“Whether Greeley West is up or down in talent, they have tradition, and we’re all trying to establish that. It’s tough to beat tradition.”

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Class 3A

Details Class 3A Tri-Valley Conference ■ Fort Lupton Bluedevils COACH: Jeff Priestley, first season 2010 RECAP: The Bluedevils finished the season with a 2-8 record overall and were 1-7 in the Tri-Valley. .

KEY PLAYERS: OG/DE Timmy Ornelas, sr.; WR/DB Jordan LaRoche, sr.; QB/SS Zach Boyd, jr.; OT/NG Luke Browne, sr.; TE/SS Dallas Hansen, sr.; QB Jeff Merritt, soph.; OG/MLB Ryan Rausch, sr.; WR/FS Seth McCorkle, sr.; RB/LB Mikey Gomez, sr.; RB/FS Joey Figueroa, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Priestley said he expects his Bluedevils players to enter the season hungry, wanting to make a big improvement from last year. They plan to run a wide-open spread offense with a balanced attack. Defensively, the Bluedevils will attack with an aggressive 3-3-5 scheme with hopes of putting pressure on opposing offenses.

■ Northridge Grizzlies

COACH: Jeff Fulton, 12th season 2010 RECAP: The Grizzlies were a disappointing 2-8 last season, finishing in the lower half of the Tri-Valley.

KEY PLAYERS: QB Robert Fulton, jr.; WR Blake Karlin, jr.; LB Dillon Dreher, soph.; TB Cody Cook, jr.; TE Michael Graff, jr.; FB/DE Caleb Flores, sr.; WR J.T. Francies, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: The Grizzlies look to be improved on both sides of the ball with six returnees on the defensive side of the ball and five on the offensive side, according to maxpreps.com.

■ Windsor Wizards

COACH: Chris Jones, fifth season 2010 RECAP: Windsor finished 8-4 overall, falling in the second round of the state playoffs for the third straight season. Despite entering the season with 17 new starters, the Wizards upset Mountain View 14-0 in the first round before falling 17-10 to Cañon City in the quarterfinals.

KEY PLAYERS: OT/DT Joey O’Connor, sr.; DE/G Jake Niess, sr.; DT/G Connor Larson, sr.; FS/RB Aaron Schmidt, sr.; CB/RB/P Jordan Porterfield, jr.; RB/KR Jacob Molina, sr.; LB Trevor Miller, sr.; LB Lucas Watts, jr.; CB Lance Cox, jr.; OT/DT Kyle McCarty, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: While the Wizards have no shortage of numbers nor talent, Jones said the team hopes to continue developing depth while keeping as many players as possible playing one side of the ball. Windsor will try to control the clock with the running game while keeping opposing defenses honest with screens and play-action passing. Jones said he expects his defense to showcase plenty of speed. The defense returns nine starters who accounted for 39 sacks, 14 fumble recoveries and 17 interceptions last year.

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Aug. 26, 2011

■■Peaks and Tri-Valleys: Windsor’s stars healthy, focused

‘In a good place’

By Bobby Fernandez

bfernandez@greeleytribune.com

F

or the hundreds of kids throughout Weld County who pull on helmets, lace up cleats and strap on pads every year, the start of the fall football season brings a whole gamut of emotions.

Excitement, enthusiasm, anxiety, optimism, anticipation — how about relief?

Make no mistake about it, two of Windsor’s top players have plenty of reason to breath a big sigh of relief as they enter this season.

Wizards senior safety/running back Aaron Schmidt can breathe much easier, and with much more enthusiasm, than he did this time last year when he was hobbled for nearly the first month of the season with an ankle injury. Windsor’s 6-foot-4, 285-pound offensive tackle, Joey O’Connor, can finally catch his breath and fully shift his focus toward his senior year after ending his muchtalked-about recruitment process by committing in June to play for Penn State University.

“It’s a huge relief,” O’Connor said. “I’m really glad that I got (the commitment) done and now I can focus on my season and just enjoy the time I have out here with the guys. That’s the best part of being out here.”

For Schmidt, he doesn’t need to search for signs that this preseason has been a heck of a lot more productive and promising than his preseason a year ago. The manner in which he flew around the practice field, making play after play, when official practices began last week was proof enough.

“It makes me feel a lot more prepared,” Schmidt said of his active preseason. “I can be around the defense more. I can get the coverages down. On top of that, I feel a lot more conditioned. So, I can go both ways and not be as tired.”

Despite missing the first week and being severely limited in the second and third games after injuring his ankle playing summer basketball, Schmidt racked up 482 rushing yards — second on the team to Banning Lobmeyer’s 761 — to go with 274 receiving yards, second only to Alex Baldwin.

Last season, the Wizards engineered an 8-4 campaign, falling for the third straight year in the quarterfinals, this time to Cañon City, 17-10.

With a fully healthy, fully focused roster

Photos by ERIC BELLAMY/ebellamy@greeleytribune.com

Andrew Blum, left, takes a hit from Joey O’Connor during practice

on Tuesday at Windsor High School.

“

It’s a huge relief. I’m really glad that I got (the commitment) done and now I can focus on my season and just enjoy the time I have out here with the guys. That’s the best part of being out here.”

— Joey O’Connor, Wizards 6-foot-4, 285-pound offensive tackle who committed in June to play at Penn State

Aaron Schmidt looks for the pass during practice on Tuesday at Windsor High School.

to start the season, Windsor’s fifth-year head coach, Chris Jones, and his squad have an eye on making another postseason run, perhaps this time shaking their second-round bugaboo.

“We’re in a good place,” Jones said. “It’s year five in the process, and offensively and defensively the base strategies and philosophies are still there, intact. We’ve added some things here and there, but base offense and defense are the same, our base special teams are the same, and we’ve pretty much come in and hit the ground running.”

Aug. 26, 2011

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Class 2A

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Aug. 26, 2011

■■Renewed Patriotism: Eaton, Platte Valley look to replace veteran leaders

Rivals reload at QB

By Bobby Fernandez

bfernandez@greeleytribune.com

E

aton’s “new” starting quarterback really isn’t all that new at all.

Meanwhile, the Reds’ rival, Platte Valley, came into camp with a veteran and a youngin’ competing for the starting quarterback spot. The veteran happens to be one of the Broncos’ top defensive players and the youngster is proving to be poised beyond his years, which will no doubt play a big role in coach Troy Hoffman’s decision.

Like much of the Class 2A Patriot League, Eaton and Platte Valley had a senior starter at quarterback last year: Tony Ball and Adam Hange, respectively.

The Reds plan to replace Ball with senior Jaden Olearnick.

Olearnick, despite coming into this season as the opening week starter for the first time in his career, has plenty of experience under center.

As for Platte Valley, among the two players competing to be the Broncos’ new starting quarterback, neither has the experience of Olearnick. Sophomore Logan Sitzman sparingly played at the varsity level last year.

Sitzman’s competition, senior Johnny Day, has plenty of varsity experience, just not at quarterback. Day is one of the Broncos’ top defensive players, lining up at middle linebacker last year.

Sitzman’s ever-improving arm and Day’s immense impact on defense could allow Platte Valley to keep one of its top defenders, Day, in his natural position while grooming a young quarterback, Sitzman, who is likely to only improve during the next three seasons.

“The best thing about this competition is there is no animosity,” Hoffman said. “Johnny has been great at helping Logan learn. The thing is, they are in competition to improve Platte Valley; it’s not to beat out one another.”

Sitzman said if he does earn the job, his intent is to act more like a senior than a sophomore, especially considering Platte Valley is moving from a shotgun

JIM RYDBOM/jrydbom@greeleytribune.com

Platte Valley senior Johnny Day, left, works to break a tackle during drills this year in

Kersey. Day and sophomore Logan Sitzman are expected to compete for the starting quarterback job. to pistol formation. The quarterback will be asked to make quick decisions and react even more suddenly.

“I’ve been at (quarterback) my whole life, so I’m comfortable,” Sitzman said. “I’m learning as I go and making sure I get the offense down. ... (With the pistol), we’ll be able to get the ball out to the quarterback faster. So, that way we can get going.”

Regardless if it’s from the quarterback or linebacker position, Day has plans to be a mentor to the younger players. That includes being supportive of Sitzman even though the two are in a competition for the quarterback spot.

“For me, it’s more about helping the team win, it’s not about myself,” Day said. “This is high school and people want to win

ERIC BELLAMY/ebellamy@greeleytribune.com

Eaton quarterback Jaden Olearnick runs for yardage while playing against Platte Valley last season.

games. We don’t care who is playing quarterback. Whoever is playing quarterback, we’re going to give it our all.”

Sitzman received a bit of playing time under center, mainly during lopsided games, last year.

For the Reds, the choice is easy.

Olearnick has filled in admirably because of injuries suffered by previous starter, Ball, the last couple years. Olearnick has the experience and the tools to be one of the league’s top quarterback.

“He’s smart and has good speed, a good arm and a lot of experience,” Eaton coach Bill Mondt said of Olearnick. “He knows what’s going on with all the runs and pass plays.”

In six games last year, Olearnick completed 27-of-49 passes for 337 yards and two touchdowns, rushing 23 times for 79 yards and two more touchdowns.

He’s had a pair of highly talented quarterbacks and strong leaders under which to learn the position the last few years — 2009 graduate Seth Lobato and 2011 graduate, Ball. Lobato is now in his second year with the University of Northern Colorado as a redshirt sophomore after a year with the University of Colorado.

Ball plays for Western State College in Gunnison.

“Watching Seth, that was great,” Olearnick said. “As a Division I athlete, he’s proven himself, that’s obvious. I was the ball boy and the stat-taker my freshman year (when Lobato was a senior), and he really commanded that team, and they knew he was the leader.

That’s definitely what I want on the team. So, we’ll see. I’ve just got to keep working for it.”

Olearnick matured greatly and improved his all-around athletic skills during last winter’s wrestling season. He placed fifth at February’s 3A state wrestling tournament, finishing with a 41-8 record.

“Any state (tournament) or any (football) game, you’re going to have a little pressure,” Olearnick said. “I think the more times you go through that, you learn to deal with the pressure more. You’re more comfortable.”

Aug. 26, 2011

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Class 2A

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Class 2A Patriot League details ■ Eaton Reds

COACH: Bill Mondt, 17th season 2010 RECAP: The Reds narrowly made the playoffs, falling 35-7 to top-seeded Florence in the first round. Eaton had to play without starting senior quarterback Tony Ball (concussion) in the last two games, finishing with a 5-2 league record, 7-4 overall.

KEY PLAYERS: TE/LB Darin Foss, sr.; C/DT Holden Rexius, sr.; OT/DE Eric Kler, sr.; OG/DE Dalton Shoop, jr.; DB Tyler Batt, sr.; OL/LB Trent Sieg, jr.; HB Lincoln Korell, sr.; HB Austin Ekeler, jr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Like many of the Patriot League teams, Eaton graduated a senior quarterback last year. Still, the Reds may be the least affected of the teams opening the season with a new starting quarterback. Olearnick has plenty of experience, routinely filling in the last couple of years because of injuries to the previous starter, Ball. Olearnick has no shortage of reliable targets within Eaton’s elite passing game. Defense will be key if the Reds are going to be a contender at the league and state levels.

■ Platte Valley Broncos

COACH: Troy Hoffman, second season 2010 RECAP: The Broncos tied Brush for first in the Patriot League. They moved on to the state

playoffs, falling in the first round, 21-14, to Aspen, finishing their season 6-1 in league, 7-3 overall.

KEY PLAYERS: LB/RB Trenton Fahrenbruch, sr.; LB/QB Johnny Day, sr.; TE/LB Kyle Olsen, sr.; WB/DB Landin Gentry, sr.; DL/OL Dillon Joens, jr.; OL/DL JR Gonzalez, sr.; DB/WB Cameron Maxey, soph.; LB/RB Caleb Creech, soph.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Entering preseason camps, Hoffman’s top priority is naming a starting quarterback between Day and sophomore Logan Sitzman. Either candidate could be suited to excel as the Broncos maintain a spread offense but move from the shotgun to pistol. Day is one of the team’s offensive leaders, which could play a factor in the decision. Platte Valley returns its entire starting line from last year.

Its defense is anchored by returning all-league selections/honorable mentions Fahrenbruch, Day, Gentry and Joens, who will anchor the 3-5-3 attacking scheme. The Broncos return 24 lettermen in all.

■ University Bulldogs COACH: Tom Grasmick, third season 2010 RECAP: The Bulldogs were a much-improved 4-6 overall, 1-6 in the Patriot League.

KEY PLAYERS: QB Tanner Sparks, jr.; RB Stephen Bradley, sr.; WR/DB Jack Pryzgoda, sr.; OL/ DL Josh White, sr.; LB Tad Strohauer, soph.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Grasmick has indicated the Bulldogs have had their best two-a-day drills in quite some time. “The attitude has helped a lot, and we had the best summer participation since I’ve been here,” Grasmick said. “We’re excited.” Cornerstone Christian (Westminster) and Denver Collegiate will scrimmage with the Bulldogs in the zero week of the season before they travel to Jefferson in the first week and then play host to Highland in their home opener on Sept. 10.

■ Valley Vikings COACH: Ryan Wehrman, fifth season 2010 RECAP: Valley fell short of the playoffs, finishing in fifth place in the league with a 3-4 record, 5-5 overall.

KEY PLAYERS: OL/LB Mac McClung, sr.; OL/ DE Walker Gonzales, sr.; RB/LB Pedro Alvidrez, sr.; QB/LB Keith Huntington, sr.; WR/DB Drew Matsushima, sr.; OL/LB Blake Brazell, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Wehrman has the biggest players he’s had in his five years, with depth and size on both lines. He said the goal is to break from the middle of the pack in the always-tough league. Huntington will lead the offense, while Wehrman expects MacClung to command the defense. The team has strong depth, which should help keep starters fresh.

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■ Weld Central Rebels COACH: Mike Brown, eighth season 2010 RECAP: The Rebels entered the season capable of contending in the tough league but were plagued with injuries, finishing 2-5 in league, 4-6 overall.

KEY PLAYERS: WR/DB Travis Siebers, sr.; TE/LB Cord Dunham, sr.; FB/DB Joe Cummings, sr.; RB/ LB Levi Schlidt, sr.; OL/DL Jon Meketuk, jr.; WR/ DB Tyler Nebelsick, soph.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Brown pointed out that although his team is young, graduating numerous key players from last year’s squad — including star quarterback J.J. Sirios and wide receiver Brandon Hoff — nearly every team in the Patriot League is young. “Everybody — at least the top five teams (from last year) — are in the same boat. Everybody graduated a lot of great seniors,” Brown said. “We’re young, so we’re kind of thin, but if we can stay healthy, we can reload pretty quickly and fight for at least part of that league championship. If not, we can maybe finish second and compete for a playoff spot.” Even though this will be somewhat of a rebuilding year, Brown said he sees no reason why his team can’t stay in the hunt for a league title and playoff spot if it can stay healthy. The Rebels’ injuries allowed young players to receive ample playing time, and Brown said his group has gelled quickly this season.

10

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Class 1A

Prep preview

Class 1A conference details Class 1A North Central Conference ■ Highland Huskies

COACH: David Stanford, third season 2010 RECAP: Highland struggled in what is no doubt the toughest league in 1A 11-man. The Huskies finished 0-5 in league, 1-8 overall.

KEY PLAYERS: QB Latham Clayton, sr.; RB/LB Dakota DiFrancesco, sr.; DE/OL Jake Hasbrouck, jr.; LB/OL Chris Nelson, sr.; RB/LB James Price, jr.; OL/LB Danny Castillo, sr.; WR/DB Andrew Espinoza, sr.; OL/DL Garrett Boldry, sr.; RB/ LB Dalton Smith, sr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Stanford said there is strong potential for his team to improve from last year, but getting healthy will be a big priority. Huskies bruisers Price (ankle) and Smith (shoulder) will both be sidelined for the next couple weeks. “We’ve got a few (young) guys that are going to be pressured into service,” Stanford said. “I think they’re capable of it, but you’ve got that experience factor.” The Huskies will run the option on offense and a 3-5 on defense.

Class 1A eight-man Mile High League ■ Dayspring Christian

Eagles COACH: Mick Holmes, 12th season 2010 RECAP: The Eagles advanced to the Elite Eight round of the eight-man playoffs, eventually losing to Merino. They were 7-1 in conference and preseason action, eventually finishing the season at 9-2.

KEY PLAYERS: QB/CB Eli Miller; OG/DE Justin Short; RB/CB Ben Sanderford; TE/LB Luke Figgs; OG/DE Jason Reynolds; OC/DT Tate Mesbergen.

SEASON OUTLOOK: The Eagles are optimistic about the returning offensive and defensive linemen, which should bode well for what is always a very potent running game.

ERIC BELLAMY/ebellamy@greeleytribune.com

Dayspring’s Ben Sanderford, center, breaks a 51-yard touchdown run in the final seconds of the game to defeat Merino last season.

From its 4-2 defensive alignment, the Eagles expect to put a lot of pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Offensively, Miller and Sanderford will play roles, but the Eagles will also feature an exciting play-action passing game.

Class 1A six-man North Conference

■ Briggsdale Falcons COACH: Rick Mondt, seventh season 2010 RECAP: Briggsdale played in the cross-division round of the postseason, falling to Idalia. The Falcons finished tied for second in the conference with a 3-2 record, 4-5 overall.

KEY PLAYERS: END/LB Tyler Axelson, jr.; OL/DL Justin Erickson, jr.; QB Jake Gorman, jr.; RB/LB Nathan Krise, jr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: With a youthful roster, the Falcons enter the season determined to gain experience. The team has no seniors, and the returning players have minimal playing time under their belts.

Therefore, the team will need time to learn and adjust to new roles, Mondt said.

Briggsdale will play a spread offense and will line up in a 2-3 on defense.

■ Pawnee Coyotes COACH: Doug Miller, 15th season 2010 RECAP: The Coyotes finished 3-2 in conference

play, 4-3 overall, falling just short of making the postseason.

KEY PLAYERS: QB/DB Brye Brunelle, jr.; TB/LB Scott Klinginsmith, jr.; FB/DB Zeb Durst, jr.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Miller said he enters this season believing that Fleming is the team to beat but Prairie and Weldon Valley should also provide tough competition in the North Conference. A perennially strong Peetz team and a speedy Briggsdale squad should make for a tough league top to bottom.

Nonetheless, Miller said if his team stays healthy, the Coyotes should be in the hunt.

Pawnee must compensate for the loss of all-conference players Brad Durst and James Klinginsmith, but the Coyotes return Brunelle (who passed for 1,800 yards last season) and leading rusher Scott Klinginsmith.

■ Prairie Mustangs

COACH: Glenn Carlson, sixth season 2010 RECAP: The Mustangs finished the season 4-4, falling just short of the eightteam state playoffs.

KEY PLAYERS: C/DE Jacob Laramore, sr.; PR/KR/DB/ WR Troy Warboys, sr.; DE/ OE Brady Stump, jr.; LB/ RB Dustin Warboys, jr.; LB/ RB Richard Pena, jr.; LB/RB Tyler Carmen, soph.; QB Ross

Stump, soph.

SEASON OUTLOOK: Carlson has outstanding numbers for a six-man team, with 21 players. With talent and depth, Carlson said he expects his team to be a contender in a strong conference. Conference top dog Fleming should again be a state title contender after finishing second at state last year, but outside of the Wildcats, Carlson said his team has a decent chance of beating any of the league’s other five teams. Pawnee has a nice mix of veterans and youth with two seniors, six juniors, six sophomores and seven freshmen.

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Aug. 26, 2011

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For the fans

Prep preview

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■■The schedule

Plan your fall now FRIDAY, AUG. 26

» Berthoud at Greeley Cen­ tral, 7 p.m. » Northridge at Prairie View, 7 p.m. » Platte Valley at Sterling, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 2

» Greeley Central at Green Mountain, 6 p.m. » Centaurus at Northridge, 7 p.m. » Deer Trail at Briggsdale, 7 p.m. » Fort Lupton at Arvada, 7 p.m. » Highland at Resurrection Christian, 7 p.m. » Manual at Weld Central, 7 p.m. » Otis at Prairie, 7 p.m. » Roosevelt at Platte Valley, 7 p.m. » Valley at Mead, 7 p.m. » Windsor at Eaton, 7 p.m. » Woodlin at Pawnee, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 3

» Greeley West at Montbello, at All-City Stadium, 10 a.m. » Hugo at Dayspring Chris­ tian, 1 p.m. » University at Jefferson, 1 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 8

» Monarch at Greeley West, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 9

» Bethune at Prairie, 4 p.m. » Air Academy at Greeley Central, 7 p.m. » Briggsdale at Woodlin, 7 p.m. » Dayspring Christian at Vail Christian, 7 p.m. » Eaton at Mead, 7 p.m. » Northridge at Roose­ velt, 7 p.m. » Platte Canyon at Weld Central, 7 p.m. » Valley at Fort Lupton, 7 p.m. » Wiggins at Platte Valley, 7 p.m. » Palmer Ridge at Windsor, 7 p.m. » Pawnee at Arickaree, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 10

» Greeley Central at Loveland, 7 p.m. » Holyoke at Highland, 7 p.m. » Thompson Valley at Gree­ ley West, 7 p.m. » Skyline at Roosevelt, 7 p.m. » University at Platte Valley, 7 p.m. » Valley at Estes Park, 7 p.m. » Weld Central at Eaton, 7 p.m. » Lone Star at Pawnee, 7:30 p.m.

» Highland at University, 1 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 15

» Greeley Central at Niwot, 7 p.m. » Silver Creek at Northridge, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 16

» Colorado Springs Christian School at Valley, 7 p.m. » Fleming at Pawnee, 7 p.m. » Fort Lupton at Roose­ velt, 7 p.m. » Highland at Eaton, 7 p.m. » Pueblo West at Greeley West, 7 p.m. » Skyline at Windsor, 7 p.m. » Briggsdale at Prairie, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 22

» Longmont Christian at Day­ spring Christian, 1 p.m. » Windsor at Northridge, 1 p.m. » Prairie at Briggsdale, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 27

» Jefferson at Greeley West, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 17

» Weld Central at Skyview, noon » Mead at University, 1 p.m. » West Grand at Dayspring Christian, 1 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 28

THURSDAY, SEPT. 22

» Greeley Central at Longmont, 7 p.m. » Windsor at Mountain View, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 23

» Berthoud at Fort Lupton, 7 p.m. » Eaton at Estes Park, 7 p.m. » Lyons at Highland, 7 p.m. » Northridge at Skyline, 7 p.m. » Pawnee at Briggsdale, 7 p.m. » Prairie at Peetz, 7 p.m. » Roosevelt at Fort Morgan, 7 p.m. » University at Brush, 7 p.m. » Valley at Strasburg, 7 p.m. » Weld Central at Platte Valley, 7 p.m. » Dayspring Christian at Merino, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 24

» Greeley West at Niwot, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 30

» Fort Lupton at Erie, 7 p.m. » Frederick at Roosevelt, 7 p.m.

» Greeley Central at George Washington, 7 p.m. » Mountain View at North­ ridge, 7 p.m. » Platte Valley at Brush, 7 p.m. » University at Eaton, 7 p.m. » Valley at Weld Central, 7 p.m. » Silver Creek at Windsor, 7 p.m. » Dayspring Christian at Sedgwick County, 7:30 p.m. » Highland at Yuma, 7:30 p.m. » Prairie at Fleming, 7:30 p.m. » Weldon Valley at Pawnee, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 1

» Briggsdale at Peetz, 1 p.m. » Broomfield at Greeley West, 1 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 6

» Northridge at Frederick, 7 p.m.

» Roosevelt at Mountain View, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 7

» Brush at Valley, 7 p.m. » Eaton at Strasburg, 7 p.m. » Estes Park at Platte Val­ ley, 7 p.m. » Greeley West at Greeley Central, 7 p.m. » Pawnee at Prairie, 7 p.m. » Sterling at Fort Lupton, 7 p.m. » Windsor at Fort Morgan, 7 p.m. » Wray at Highland, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 8

» Haxtun at Dayspring Christian, 1 p.m. » Weld Central at Univer­ sity, 1 p.m. » Briggsdale at Weldon Valley, 3:30 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 13

» Longmont at Greeley West, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 14

» Dayspring Christian at Caliche, 7 p.m. » Eaton at Brush, 7 p.m. » Estes Park at Weld Cen­ tral, 7 p.m. » Fleming at Briggsdale, 7 p.m. » Fort Morgan at North­ ridge, 7 p.m. » Frederick at Fort Lupton, 7 p.m. » Platte Valley at Valley, 7 p.m. » Roosevelt at Berthoud, 7 p.m. » Sterling at Windsor, 7 p.m. » Weldon Valley at Prairie, 7 p.m. » Highland at Akron, 7:30 p.m. » Pawnee at Peetz, 7:30 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 15

» Strasburg at University, 1 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 21

» Fort Lupton at Fort Morgan, 7 p.m.

» Broomfield at Greeley Central, 7 p.m. » Eaton at Valley, 7 p.m. » Erie at Roosevelt, 7 p.m. » Fort Lupton at Windsor, 7 p.m. » Northridge at Sterling, 7 p.m. » Platte Valley at Strasburg, 7 p.m. » Weld Central at Brush, 7 p.m. » Wiggins at Highland, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, OCT. 29

» Estes Park at University, 1 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 3

» Roosevelt at Silver Creek, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, NOV. 4

» Greeley West at Loveland, 7 p.m. » Northridge at Fort Lupton, 7 p.m. » Platte Valley at Eaton, 7 p.m. » Strasburg at Weld Cen­ tral, 7 p.m. » Thompson Valley at Gree­ ley Central, 7 p.m. » University at Valley, 7 p.m. » Windsor at Frederick, 7 p.m.

12

n

For the fans

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Prep preview

n

Aug. 26, 2011

■■A little advice

2011’s do’s ...

3.

By Samuel G. Mustari and Bobby Fernandez

smustari@greeleytribune.com

1.

The Do’s

Do check out the game photos on The Tribune’s website the day after Platte Valley’s Week 1 affair with Roosevelt on Sept. 2. You’re guaranteed to find a few timely shots of the groundshaking, bone-crushing hits that are commonplace when two of the county’s most physical defenses lock up to open the season each year.

2.

Do make sure to stop by the concession stands at your local football venue. You might be surprised to find that not every stand consists of the hot dog/nacho status quo (See: Kersey Pizza at Platte Valley football games and homemade chili and cookies at Dayspring games.)

Do expect at least a few Weld County teams to make runs deep into the playoffs. The county has established itself as a hotbed for toptier football, with contenders sprinkled throughout nearly every classification.

4.

Do make sure you check the contents of your canteens and coolers before making plans to show up early for some pregame tailgating.

There are certain beverages that might fly at the pro and college levels that could get you in a bit of trouble in the more familyfriendly confines of prep games.

5.

Do support your area teams even in a time of economic crisis. The five-or-so bucks you pay at prep games is a big bargain compared to most other methods of burning a couple of hours on a Friday night. Plus, active fan support can go a long way toward building a studentathlete’s confidence and self-esteem.

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n

For the fans

Prep preview

... and don’ts 4.

The Dont’s

1.

Don’t forget your cold-weather gear every time you leave your house for a nighttime game.

Even if it’s 80 degrees and sunny as you’re pulling out of your driveway, Colorado autumn nights are as unpredictable as the action on the field.

Don’t wear a Greeley West jersey while sitting on Greeley Central’s side of the field. In such instances, the Wildcat faithful is unlikely to welcome you with open arms.

2.

Don’t leave a Dayspring-Merino game early. Period. No matter what. If recent history has taught us anything about this always-heated matchup, this game is not over until the final second ticks off the clock.

3.

5.

Don’t allow your school district to play games without an ambulance on the premises. Concussions and other potentially serious injuries can be as common at high school games as they are in the pros and college.

Don’t bother bringing your own scorebook to a six-man football game. By the second quarter, your scorebook will be more of a mess than our notepads are when trying to cover one of those high-scoring, borderline chaotic — yet always entertaining — runand-gun affairs.

AUGUST 27, 2011

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For the fans

Prep preview

n

Aug. 26, 2011

■■What to watch

10 games you can’t miss

By Bobby Fernandez and Samuel G. Mustari

bfernandez@greeleytribune.com

Friday, Sept. 2 Roosevelt at Platte Valley, 7 p.m.

ers split their two meetings a year ago. Mountain View topped Windsor 28-7 on Sept. 24 in nonleague play.

The Wizards earned their revenge a couple of months later, upsetting the Mountain Lions 14-0 on Nov. 13 in the first round of the playoffs. The loss was just the second all season for Mountain View. The other came on Oct. 22 in a 27-7 slip-up against Silver Creek.

The first week of the season may lack conference games, but this is one matchup that never lacks the intensity, energy and bonecrushing physicality that normally accompanies conference games.

Roosevelt and Platte Valley possess two of the most hard-hitting defenses in the county. They also don’t lack any physicality on the other side of the ball with their run-first offenses.

The two are old Class 2A Patriot League foes, who for years played much later in the season. The teams have scheduled each other in Week 1 each year since the Rough Riders moved to 3A three years ago. (This year Platte Valley has a zero-week matchup with Sterling.)

Since then, Roosevelt has won two of three games, with the home team winning every time.

Last season, the Rough Riders prevailed 27-6 in Johnstown.

You can always expect a highoctane, high-scoring affair when these friendly rivals get together.

When these two teams meet, they draw the full attention of their small rural communities.

The Falcons and Coyotes routinely trade victories.

Last year, Briggsdale took home bragging rights, winning 57-56 in Grover. Pawnee jumped out to a 36-6 first quarter lead before the Falcons came storming back with 44 total points in the second and third quarters.

Windsor at Eaton, 7 p.m.

Dayspring Christian at Merino, 7:30 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 4 Greeley West at Loveland, 7 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 23 Pawnee at Briggsdale, 7 p.m.

Last year in the season opener, Windsor and Eaton renewed their rivalry of past decades.

The nonleague matchup made for one of the most exhilarating games of the early season.

Despite trailing for much of the night, the Wizards rallied late for a 14-13 win in Windsor.

The Reds led 13-0 until quarterback Tyler Winder hooked up with Alex Baldwin for a 3-yard touchdown pass to pull within a touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Winder hit Vince Hooley for a 26-yard touchdown pass to take the lead with 27.5 seconds left.

The Wizards went on to have an 8-4 season, falling 17-10 to Cañon City in the 3A state quarterfinals.

Eaton went 7-4 with a 35-7 loss to Florence in the 2A first round.

Every year there seems to be fewer spectators questioning what will happen when Dayspring and Merino play, and more questioning how many times they will play and who will get the last laugh.

The two teams have played twice in each of the past three years — once in 1A eight-man North Plains League play and again in the postseason, including two titles games in which each team has won once.

Merino has gone 5-3 against Dayspring during that span.

Last season, the Eagles earned a dramatic 41-35 win in the regular season with running back Ben Sanderford scoring the 51-yard go-ahead touchdown with 3 seconds left.

Thursday, Sept. 22 Windsor at Mountain View, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Oct. 6 Roosevelt at Mountain View, 7 p.m.

These 3A postseason contend-

what was left of its season.

Now, with a horde of players who appeared in those two games gone from both teams, this game should be an indication of where each program stands.

Last year, this game estab-

ERIC BELLAMY/ebellamy@greeleytribune.com

Greeley Central’s Willy Sandau , left, collides

with Nate Charles while running tackling drills at practice. This year’s Greeley Central-Greeley West showdown is Oct. 7 lished an early favorite in the 3A Northern Conference race, and the same might be true this year.

The Mountain Lions edged the Rough Riders 21-14 in Johnstown on Oct. 8. With hopes of scoring a late-game touchdown, then attempting a two-point conversion for the win, Roosevelt senior quarterback Brandyn Hernandez was stopped on the Mountain View 2-yard line with 1 second left, allowing the Mountain Lions to preserve the win.

That game ultimately made all the difference in the league title race as the teams ended up tying in the final league standings with identical records (4-1 Northern, 9-2 overall).

Friday, Oct. 7 Greeley West at Greeley Central, 7 p.m.

Is it time for Greeley Central to stand up to the Spartans and their recent run of success?

The Spartans have become serious contenders for the Class 4A

state title in the past four seasons, while Greeley Central coach Mike Heatherly has done a noticeable job of rebuilding the Wildcats.

The crosstown rivalry always adds an element of competition at its best, and both teams use this game for bragging rights, which the Spartans have had for a while.

Saturday, Oct. 22 Windsor at Northridge, 1 p.m.

By this time in the season, both teams will be well into their schedules, but they can still use this as a gauge of how they match up with each other.

Two years ago, Windsor upset the Grizzlies and it proved to be a preview of what turned out to be a season of struggles for Northridge.

Last season, this all-Weld matchup also went in Windsor’s favor, and the Wizards continued to march into the postseason while Northridge was salvaging

The battle between these two teams has become one of the premier matchups in the state as both programs have established themselves among the state’s best at the Class 4A level.

Last season, the Indians used the power of oversized tailback Conner Medbery to steamroll the Spartans.

With Brandon Gallatin returning for his second season as the Spartans’ starter at quarterback, it will be interesting to see how much progress has been made by Mark Roggy’s complex offensive attack, which takes its cues from former University of Northern Colorado head coach Kay Dalton.

The Spartans’ defense has been a strong point for nearly a decade, and it usually takes one of the team’s best defensive efforts to contain Loveland.

At this point of the season, this game could be crucial in determining a Northern Conference champion and possibly postseason berths.

Platte Valley at Eaton, 7 p.m.

The fact these two teams don’t face each other until the final game of the Patriot League season is only fitting. It’s always a physical, hard-hitting matchup in quite possibly the league’s best rivalry, one of the premier rivalries in all of 2A. This game has settled league title races and determined postseason positioning on more than one occasion, including last year.

The Broncos topped Eaton 2924 in Kersey on Nov. 5, a game in which neither team ever led by more than single digits. With the win, Platte Valley earned a share of the league title. The Reds nearly missed the playoffs with the loss.

Aug. 26, 2011

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Prep preview

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Prep preview

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Aug. 26, 2011

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