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KICKOFF 2014
2C — THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
New seasonbegins with new league homes for many teams ootball season is upon us, and I hope you are as excited as we are here at The Observer and Baker City Herald. There are a number of fascinating storylines involving the teams in Northeast Oregon, and in this preview you will find everything you needtoknow about each team around the area. It is important to take note that the OSAA has made a number ofchanges realigning several schools and leagues. Some of these changes have not been updated on the OSAA website as of this writing, so here are some of the major changes that have taken place: Union and Cove high schools will co-optogether asoneteam this season in the newly-configured Wapiti League. The Wapiti League will also include two reigning state champion programs with Grant Union the Class 2A title holders, while Imbler will be transitioning from playing 8-man to 11-man football after winning the 1A state championship. Following a third-place finish in the Northeast Oregon League, Burns will be dropping down from Class 3A to 2A to join the Wapiti League as
made up of Adrian, Crane, Jordan Valley and Dayville. The OSAA website says that Burnt River ERIC AVISSAR will also be in this conference, but Burnt River recently decided to well. After finishing seventh out of only play a junior varsity schedule eight teams in the Blue Mountain this season. Prairie City is also Conference, Enterprise will be listedas a m ember ofSpecial one of the five teams vying for the District 1, but only eight players Wapiti crown. showed up for practice, resulting As of this writing, the OSAA in the school opting to play only website says Elgin is the sixth a junior varsity schedule this member of the Wapiti League, but season. that is not the case. After playing There are no changes to the as a 2A independent last season, Greater Oregon League season, Elgin successfully petitioned the as Baker, La Grande, Ontario and OSAA to play 1A independent McLoughlin could all conceivably football this season. It is also win this year's wide-open league. important to note that conference The GOL will continue to play just realignment can be confusing a three game season that doesn't because the teams in each league Danny Moran/TheOregonian begin until Oct. 10, giving each can varybased on different sports. Imbler celebrates its 88-76 state championship victory over Lowell team essentially five games to Elgin is a good example of this prepare for the games that count. last season, the highest scoring state title in Oregon history. because it will be playing in the Imbler will be transitioning from playing 8-man to 11-man football Thank you for reading our exWapiti League in other sports, intensivehigh schoolfootballcoverafter winning the 1A state championship. cluding volleyball and basketball. age. We put a lot of work into this Realignment also resulted in the playoffs this season. District 1 that includes multiple special section, and reading this wholesale changes at the 1A level. A year ago, 1A Special District Northeast Oregon schools and is istheperfectwa y to getgeared With Imbler moving up to the 2A 1 had five football programs, inm ade upoftw oseparate diviup for those special Fridays in the level and Cove joining forces with cluding St. Paul, Perrydale, Jewell, sions. One division is comprised of fall. No matter how excited you get Union, several coaches at the 1A Falls City/Kings Valley Charter Joseph, Wallowa, Pine Eagle, Echo, forfootball,justremember that it's level believe their teams will have School and Alsea. None of those Harper/Huntington and Powder only a game. much better opportunities to reach teams are in this year's Special Valley. The other division will be Just kidding.
AVISSAR'S ANALYSIS
What'S inSide Here, you will find everything you need to know on 10 local high school programs and three leagues with Northeast Oregon teams along with a primer for Eastern Oregon's season. . :IMBLER PANTHERS FIVE QUESTIONS The Baker City Herald andThe , :The reigning 1A state champions Observer sports staffs answer , :face the unenviable task of the 2014 season's most pressing : transitioning from 8-man to 11questions...................................... 3C , :man football with 26 players on : :the roster.......................................8C LA GRANDE TIGERS New head coach Chad Smith plans : :UNION/COVE BOBCATS : 'After the two teams finished last to run a spread offense similar : 'season with losing records, Union to the one of his predecessor, : 'and Cove are joining forces as while Brandon Dall returns at quarterback................................... 4C : 'a co-op in the new-lookWapiti : 'League 10C BAKER CITY BULLDOGS KeatonBachman makes the ENTERPRISE OUTLAWS transition from wide receiver to An experienced and stout line will be leaned on to continue a strong quarterback, as the Bulldogs aim to bounce back from last season's rushing game, and help keep a 4-6 record...................................... 6C new quarterback upright ..........12C
ELGIN HUSKIES . :SPECIAL DISTRICT 1 Brock Eckstein's squad went winless Adrian is the head of the class in 2012, then bounced back with a: i n the newly-formed league, but 5-3 record last season ..................14C, :others could emerge................. 22C
WAPITI LEAGUE One team must replace all of its starters, another team is going from playing 8-man to 11-man football — everyone's got their issues ........................................... 30C
PINE EAGLE SPARTANS ' P O W D ER VALLEY BADGERS : Standout senior Ray Denig'syounger ' After suffering some losses on brother Shane will take the reigns as : 'the offensive side of the ball, the EASTERN OREGON the team's quarterback....................16C: ,Badgers aim for playoffs ............ 26C Headed by a terrific linebacking trio and one of the more dynamic BEST OF BEST JOSEPH EAGLES receiving duos in NAIA, the Meet the nine big stars you need Wtih a senior transfer and a Mounties appear poised for a for the upcoming season...18C-19C dual-threat quarterback in Cayden conference run...........................32C DeLury, the Eagles try to continue WALLOWA COUGARS their recent upswing ................. 26C FRONTIER CONFERENCE New headcoach Matt Brockamp Carroll College, with reigning hopes to inject life and energy to a GREATER OREGON LEAGUE defensive MVP Sean Blomquist Cougar program behind a versatile With no clear favorite, this year's back, aims to repeat as conference running game ...........................20C GOL is up for grabs...................28C champions ..................................34C
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER rr BAKER CITY HERALD —3C
PREVIOUS OREGON STATE CHAMPIONS
• The sports writers for The Observer and the Baker City Herald answer thebigquestionsofthe2014 footballseason
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Josh Benham
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With a new coach the players believe in, an experienced quarterback and fresh new talent, La Grande will pull the surprise league title.
Ontario. Despite only returning two starters, they remain the team to beat. They manhandled both La Grande and Baker last year.
Baker or Ontario. It most likely will come down to when Ontario travels to Baker Oct. 24, the final regular-season game.
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Absolutely. Three games is not nearly enough to decide who is the best, and teams that get two games at home have an unfair edge.
No. With the potential of high school playoffs, the teams have a big enoughslate ofgames as it is.
No. If the GOL schedule were expanded, it most likely would mean playing the other GOL teams more than once during the season.
After dropping down to the 2A level, Burns has an experienced head coach and the talent to make a run for a state championship.
Ontario. But if Baker finishes second again, I would give them the nod, just due to experience, which comes in handy in the late stages of the season.
Baker basically because they have extensive post-season experience returning.
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1A: Adrian, Pine Eagle and Powder Valley 2A: Burns, Heppner 4A: Philomath, North Bend
1A:Adrian, Crane, Sherman, Dufur 2A: Heppner, Portland Christian, Oakland, Regis 4A: Ridgeview, Gladstone, Cottage Grove, Scappoose
1A: Lowell, Dufur and Adrian 2A: Heppner and Regis 4A: North Bend, Gladstone and Cottage Grove
Burns will be the beneficiary of dropping down to 2A, while the transition from 8-man to 11-man football will be tough for Imbler.
Union will get the addition of Cove, sothey should be much improved, and Imbler will find some resistance in 2A with the transition to 11-manfootball.
Teams like Cove and Imbler who switch from 8-man to 11-man. As an example, Cove has had to co-op with Union to play at the 2A level.
The following is a listof previous Oregon state champions back to 1983: 2013 2A: Nyssa 1A: Dufur 6A: Central Catholic 1A: Mohawk 1993 5A:West Albany 2004 4A: North Medford 4A: Ridgeview 4A: Sprague 3A: Junction City 3A: Cascade Christian 3A:Wilsonville 2A:Vale 2A: Grant Union 2A: Lost River 1A:Wallowa 1A:Imbler 1A: Perrydale 1992 2012 2003 4A: Marshfield 6A: Sheldon 4A:Tigard 3A: St. Helens 5A: Sherwood 3A: Marist 2A: Heppner 4A: Baker 2A: Amity 1A: St. Paul 3A: Dayton 1A: Powder Valley 1991 2A: Oakland 2002 4A:Ashland 1A:Camas Valley 4A: Sheldon 3A: Silverton 2011 3A: Scappoose 2A:Vale 6A: Lake Oswego 2A: Dayton 1A: St. Paul 5A: Mountain View 1A: St. Paul 1990 4A: La Salle Prep 2001 4A: (tie)Tigard / 3A: Santiam Christian 4A: McNary Roseburg 2A: Gold Beach 3A: Scappoose 3A: Reedsport 2A: Amity 2A:Vale 1A:Camas Valley 2010 1A: Dufur 1A: Camas Valley 6A:Aloha 2000 1989 5A: Sherwood 4A: Jesuit AAA:Ashland 4A: Baker 3A: Scappoose AA: Hood River Valley 3A: Rainier 2A: Amity A: Salem Academy 2A: Scio 1A: Dufur B:Sherman County 1A:St. Paul 1999 1988 4A: Beaverton AAA: Benson 2009 6A: Sheldon 3A: Sisters AA: Philomath 5A: Hillsboro 2A: Amity A: Salem Academy 4A: Marist 1A: Dufur B:Cove 3A:Amity 1998 1987 2A: Scio 4A: Ashland AAA: Lakeridge 1A:St. Paul 3A: Sisters AA: Sweet Home 2A: Amity A: Regis 2008 6A: Southridge 1A: Powers B:Cove 5A:West Albany 1997 1986 4A:Astoria 4A: McNary AAA: Glencoe 3A: Grant Union 3A: Ontario' AA: Dallas 2A: Knappa 2A: Lost River A: Dayton 1A:Imbler 1A: Powers B: Butte Falls 'Game forfeited by 2007 1985 6A: Sheldon Ontario. Championship AAA: Medford 5A:West Albany trophy not awarded. AA: Phoenix 4A: Marist A: Dayton 1996 3A: Gold Beach 4A: Roseburg B:Cove 2A: Culver 3A: St. Helens 1984 1A:Mohawk 2A: Dayton AAA: Crook County 2006 1A: Powers AA: North Valley A: Enterprise 6A: Jesuit 1995 5A: Corvallis 4A: Roseburg B:St. Paul 4A: Siuslaw 3A: Junction City 1983 3A: Nyssa 2A: Dayton AAA: Corvallis 2A: Cascade Christian 1A: Dufur AA: Central 1A:Dufur 1994 A: (tie) St. Mary's/Colton 2005 4A: Glencoe B:Cove 4A: Jesuit 3A: Seaside 3A: Marist 2A: Sherman Source: OSAA
KICKOFF 2014
4C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"I want us to reach our potential, whether that's winning five or six games, or anything else. I know that they've struggled here and it's been tough. I want to build on our strong core group of kids." Chad Smith, La Grande head coach By Eric Avissar VVescom News Service
ew La Grande head coach Chad Smith knows he has a tough first season ahead ofhim. As the fourth head coach of the Tigers in the past five years, the 27-year-old Smith will take on his first head coaching gig, with the intention ofbuilding the program into a contender. "I really like the area here," Smith said."La Grande is a great placetobuild aprogram from the bottom up. I'm very impressed with what I've seen from the kids so far and am very excited for our future." Smith, who previously worked as the offensive coordinator at Madras High School, plans to run a similarspread offense to the one his predecessor, Kenny Mace, utilized last season. Brandon Dall isexpected to startatquarterback after a full season under his belt running the spread offense last season. While the Tigers finished lastseason with a 2-6 record and a 1-3 mark in the Greater Oregon
EricAvissarNVescom News Sennce
Senior quarterback Brandon Dall prepares to throw a deep pass during La Grande's intrasquad scrimmage Aug. 23. League, Dall was able to finish the season on a high note, throwing a touchdown pass to Drew Hively and converting the game-winning two-pointconversion to seala 1918 homecoming win over Mac-Hi. "I really like the spread offense," Dall said.cWith the spread, we have a lot of athletic guys that can
make plays." While Smith knows his team is undersized, healso believesthe spread offense will put both his linemen and skill position players in posit ions to succeed. "I don't need a huge offensive line," Smith said."I just need guys that will do their job and get in
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 5 Nyssa Sept. 12 Pendleton Sept. 19 Weiser, Idaho Sept. 26 at Madison Oct. 3 at DeSales, Wash. Oct. 10 Baker Oct. 17 at Ontario Oct. 24 at McLoughlin All TimesPacific
Opponent Nyssa Fruitland, Idaho Vale Burns Weiser, Idaho Baker Ontario McLoughlin
porate zone coverage based on La Grande's opponents, and how they match up with the opposition's skill position players. HuSnan is expected to take on amajor leadership role asthe team's middle linebacker. "Chase is a very good running back and middle linebacker," Dall said."He is a really hard hitter and will be a greatleaderforus." With no clear favorite in the Greater Oregon League this season, Smith said the improvement ofhis team is more important than wins and losses. "I want us to reach our potential, whether that's winning five or six games, or anything else," Smith said."I know that they've struggled here and it's been tough. I want to build on our strong core group of kids.I'm ascompetitive as anyone, but I'm focused on us getting better more than anything else. I'm a firm believer that you're alwayseither getting better,or getting worse." eavissarOlagrandeobservercom
TIGERS AT A GLANCE Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m.
2013 RESULTS(2-6) Date Sept. 5 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25
people's way. With the offense we're running, we won't need to blow people off the ball, we just have to screen them." Dall loses two ofhis top receiving targetsfrom lastseason's team, as Tyson Wicklander and Brandon Cederholm graduated. This year, Dall will target Hively along with brothers Alec and Isaiah Cranford. With Chase Huffman, junior newcomer Christian Korom andRay Jimenez fi guring to take most of the snaps at running back, Smith plans to keep the playbook compact. cWe'renot going torun a lotof plays, but we're going to be good at running the plays we have," Smith said."I'm not a coach that will have 150 plays. We'll be lucky if we have 30. We're going to run a lotof similar plays with different formations and different terminology." On the defensive side of the ball, Smith plans to run a base 4-3 defense, using three different defensive fronts. Smith added that he plans on starting with man-toman coverage, and will later incor-
Result L, 15-41 L, 6-57 L, 13-48 L 22-25 W,27-25 L, 8-43 L, 8-50 W, 19-18
0~ FOLLOW ERICAVISSARONTWITTER QlgoAvissa
Coach Chad Smith (first year at school)
2013 record 2-6 overall,1-2 Greater Oregon League, did not make playoffs
2014 Conference Greater Oregon League • Ontario • Mac-Hi • Baker
Returning starters Total: 9 Offense: 5 Defense: 4
Smith
Jimenez
Key returnees • Brandon Dall, QB • Chase Huffman, RB/LB • Ray Jimenez, RB • Drew Hively, WR
Key newcomers • Andrew Peasley, QB/DB • Christian Korom, WR/RB/DB
Key losses • Tyson Wicklander, QB • Brandon Cederholm, WR • Creed Smith, OUDL • Craig Hopper, OUDL
Keys to success La Grande will have an opportunity to contend in the Greater Oregon League if it can protect quarterback Brandon Dall. Smith
: :said Dall will throwa lot of quick passes to : 'build confidence and get rid of the ball early. : :As the season progresses, he plans to throw : :the ball more downfield. Asa result, the : :offensive line's ability to pick up blitzes and : 'keep Dall upright will goa long way towards : :determining how the team finishes. Having : :a small playbook on both sides should help : 'with building team chemistry.
Questionmarks , :TheTigers will once again have depth , :issues, and will have to put several players : onboth sides ofthe ball. Ifthe injury bug bites, the team's lack of depth could be easily exposed.La Grande iscoming off . :a two-win season aftera winless 2012 . :campaign, so perhaps the biggest question :, will be whether Smith can truly get his . :players to forget about the past.
Toughest game Oct. 3, at DeSales, Wash., 7 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
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KICKOFF 2014
6C — THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"We will be a very solid and competitive team in the leagueand the state. Our successisn't measured by the number of wins we have." Dave 3ohnson, Baker headcoach By Gerry Steele
Keith Kramer and Cline. Johnson said the Bulldogs have akerfootballcoach Dave followed a summer weightlifbng Johnson says the Bulldogs' program and summer camps to >crryr help the team improve. goal this season is the same as every other season — to Johnson said the team's biggest win the state championship. strength is its experience, while his team's lack of size is its bigAnd, if you like to play the numbers, Baker's chances are right gest weakness. As for every year, there this year. the coach said, keeping everyone The Bulldogs have won the healthy is the Bulldogs' biggest Class4A state title tw oofthe past concern as the season begins. four seasons — in 2010 and 2012. Johnson said the Bulldogs aren't keying on any specific numThus, 2014 would fit right into that pattern. ber of wins for a successful season. ''We will be a very solid and "Our success isn't measured by competitive team in the league the numberofwins we have,"he and the state," Johnson said. s. John collinsNvescomNews sennce sald. The Bulldogs (4-6 overall) Offensive line candidates are Quarterback Keaton Bachmna, right, prepares to slip through and finished second in the Greater around the defense during a recent Bulldogs practice at Baker led by first-team all-GOL junior Oregon League a year ago, and ad- High School. Kalani Heiser, and second-team vanced to the first round of the 4A senior Bridger Cook and junior The Bulldogs return 17 letterTrevor Ball. playoffs beforefalling to Cascade ell, Bridger Cook, Kalani Heiser, 37-14. men. Cody Denton, Zarom Bruce, Others in the picture are Keith Johnson, who coached 10 years Johnson said the biggest differTrevor Ball, Porter Cline. BachKramer, Willie Goodwin, Cody at Redmond, five at Pendleton ence between this year's team and man, who played wide receiver Denton, Sam Bootsma and Trisand two at Sandy before coming to last year's is experience and game last season, will replace Thomas tian Pogue. "We have 11 linemen vying Baker, has taken the Bulldogs to savvy. Hamilton at quarterback. the state playoffs every year in his Returning on offense are startReturning on defense are Will for playing time and some oth20 years at the Baker helm. ers Keaton Bachman, Mason Pow- Goodwin, Bachman, Powell, Bruce, ers who could challenge," said VVescem News Service
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 5 Ridgeview Sept. 12 at Payette, Idaho Sept. 19 Fruitland, Idaho Sept. 26 at Vale Oct. 3 at Pendleton Oct. 10 at La Grande Oct. 17 McLoughlin Oct. 24 Ontario AllTimes Pacific
©
Opponent Ridgeview Weiser Payette (Idaho) Fruitland Pendleton Vale La Grande McLoughlin Ontario Cascade
6 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.
Result L, 0-30 W,32-22 W,50-21 L, 8-45 L, 12-21 L, 14-49 W,43-8 W,22-7 L, 12-41 L, 14-37
FOLLOWON TWITTER Qbakercitysporrs
gsteele@bakercityherald.com
BULLDOGS AT AGlANCE Time
2013 RESULTS(4-6) Date Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept.13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
Joel Richardson, Baker's line coach. ''We're pretty deep and have much improved size and depth." The wideouts will be Bruce, Teancum Taylor and Mason Powell. ''We have an entire stable of A backs," Johnson said. He included Cline and Marcus Plumley. Tight end candidates are Ryan Schwin, TJ Dunn and Austin Jones. Bachman is the starting quarterback, backed up by Sam Hamilton. Defensively, the Bulldogs are led by Powell at linebacker and Bachman in the secondary. Both were second-team all-GOL selections. Top candidates on the line are Kramer, Goodwin, Ball and Jones. Mespelt, Heiser, Schwin, Plumley and Cook also are in the pictureatlinebacker. Cline, Bruce, Dunn, Taylor and Hamilton are the main secondary candidates.
Coach Dave Johnson (20 years)
2013 record 4-6 overall, 2-1 Greater Oregon League;lost to Cascade in first round of playoffs
2014 Conference Greater Oregon League • Mac-Hi • Baker • Ontario • La Grande
Returning starters Total: 16 Offense: 9 Defense: 7
Key losses • Ben Baxter, RB/DB • Thomas Hamilton, QB • Lukas Huggins, LB/TE • Colby O'Grady, WR/DE
Johnson
Bachman
Key returnees • Keaton Bachman, QB/S • Mason Powell, LB/WR • Zarom Bruce, WR/DB • Bridger Cook, LB/OL
Bruce
: :Bachman's transtition from wide receiver to : :quarterback is a smooth one. The Bulldogs : :will also look to replace core linemen on : 'both the offensive and defensive sides of : :theball. : 'Most of Baker's returning lettermen have : 'starting varsity experience, so the team has : 'the leaders to help guide the youngsters : 'toward a successful GOL campaign.
Questionmarks
: The biggest question mark is obviously : if Keaton Bachman has what it takes to Key newcomers : succeed at the quarterback position after • Sam Hamilton, QB/WR/DB : thriving as a reliable pass catcher for the • Drew Story, LB/TE : Bulldogs. Baker will also have to tighten up • Eli Wright, LB/RB : a vulnerable defense (especially in non: conference play) that gave up an average : of35 points and 400total yards againstVale Keys to success The biggest key to success will be that Dave : and Pendleton Johnson and the rest of the coaching staff Toughest game does everything they can to ensure Keaton Sept.5,vs.Ridgeview, 7 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 7C
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KICKOFF 2014
SC —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"We are going to use a lot of misdirection and finesse. Wewon't be manhandling people up front, so we're going to have to play finessefootball and do several things right to be successful." Lee Lowe,Imbler head coach By Eric Avissar VVescom News Service
oming off a Class 1A state championship win in 8-man football, the Imbler Panthers will now compete at the 2A level playing 11-man football. Head coach Lee Lowe, who has vast experience coaching both forms, knows the transition will be di5cult. 'This is definitely a big challenge for us," Lowe said on transitioning into 11-man football," We're going into a Wapiti League that will be very tough. I think it's an exciting challenge." Seniorrunning back JoeGri5n will play a major role in determining how well Imbler handles the adjustment. During last season's state championship run, Gri5n amassed 2,203 yards rushing, averaging 11.7 yards per carry. While Gri5n admitted he will have to become a more patient runner in the 11-man game, he insists the change is far from overwhelming. "I wouldn't say there's a huge
alsoincorporating some spread offensetokeep opponentsguessing. He added that he knows his team will have to maintain a balanced attackin ordertobesuccessful. "Joe (Gri5n) is an exceptional athlete, but we can't go into games strictlyrelying on him, or else it will be a long season," Lowe said. ''We have to be balanced throwing and running the ball. In 8-man football ,you can bea little moreone dimensional and rely on one player that's faster than everyone else. In 11-man, ifyou're one dimensional, you're going to be in big trouble." Nancy Campbellphato At press time, Lowe said Imbler running back Joe Griffin jukes past a Wallowa defender last he hasnotselected a starting October during the Panthers' 68-6 win. Imbler went on to win the quarterback, and will likely decide between senior Austin Insko and Class 1A state title. sophomore Brandon McGilvray. difference, it's just three more guys ing, tackling and taking care of McGilvray has yet to throw a pass on the field," Gri5n said.'We're at the varsity level, while Insko's your own responsibilities," Lowe said.'The more people we have loneattempted pass lastseason going to to run a similar offense. It's coming along well, and I think out there, the greater the chance was a 56-yard touchdown. Senior we'll be okay getting used to it." someone blows an assignment. We Jake Campbell, who is currently Lowe echoed Gri5n's sentiments know there will be a higher quality slated to play wide receiver and that while the formations are difof play on the other side of the ball." defensiveback,went 7-for-14 last ferent, they're still playing football. Lowe said his team will run a pro season for 99 yards. "It still comes down to blocksetoffenseforthem ostpart,while On defense, Lowe plans to run a
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 11 Wes . -McE/Gris Sept. 20 atToledo Sept. 26 Stanfield Oct. 3 at Burns Oct. 10 at Un i on/Cove Oct. 24 Enterprise Oct. 31 Grant Union AIITimes Pacific
Opponent Adrian Dufur Sherman St. Paul Powder Valley Wallowa Joseph Cove pine Eagle Perrydale Triad Triangle Lane Lowell
''We will have a four-man front, and run multiple variations," Lowe said.'We will probably bring some more people into the box with the teams that like to run the ball." With 26 players on this year's squad, depth will be the biggest concern for the Panthers. ''We have to stay healthy," Lowe said.'We can't afford any injuries. Even in 8-man, one or two injuries can reall y deteriorate ateam." Like many players, Gri5n will be playing both sides of the ball as a running back and defensive back. Imbler's debut in the newlook Wapiti League will also be dependent on how the offensive and defensive lines hold up. Senior Reed Graves is the lone returning starter from last year's interior units, while the 6-3, 261-pound Jordan Teeter will be the biggest Panther in the trenches. While Imbler has five linemen that are over 200 pounds, Lowe said his team is not going to overpower opponents. eavissarOlagrandeobservercom
PANTHERS AT A GlANCE Time 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m.
2013 RESULTS (12-1) Date Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 oct. 25 Nov. 9 Nov. 16 Nov. 23 Nov. 30
4-3 base package.
Result W, 46-44 L, 28-56 W, 72-20 W, 82-46 W, 56-18 W, 68-6
w, 56-6
W, 57-14 W, 62-0 W, 59-14 W,74-22 W, 62-6 W,88-76
0~ FOLLOW ERICAVISSARONTWITTER QlgoAvissa
Coach Lee Lowe (30 years, 198-1 23 record)
2013 record 12-1 overall, 5-1 2A Special District 4, won 1A state championship
2014 Conference 2A Wapiti League • Union/Cove • Grant Union • Enterprise • Burns
Returning starters Total: 10 Offense: 5 Defense: 5
Key losses • Kyle Campbell, QB (2,321 yards, 29TDs) • Riley Merrigan, OUDL • Cole Campbell, OUDL
Lowe
Griffin
Graves
Key returnees • Joe Griffin, RB/DB (2,203 yards, 4 INTs) • Luke Silbernagel, RB/LB (791 total yards) • Reed Graves, OUDL • Klint Porter, TE/LB (772 total yards)
Key newcomers • Jordan Teeter, OUDL • MakhailTritchka, WR/DB • Tristan Hays, TE/DL • Cade Gorham, OUDL
Keys to success The role Joe Griffin will play in how Imbler fares in its return to 11-man football cannot be overstated. Griffin is the team's most
: :talented player, and will be relied upon : 'to carry the load for the Panthers at : :running back. Lee Lowe hasa great deal : 'of coaching experience in both 8-man and : :11-man football, so he has to be careful : 'that the transition does not become too : 'overwhelming for the kids playing 11-man : 'for the first time. Lowe will also have to : :makes the right call at quarterback.
Questionmarks . :The biggest question is obviously how . :Imbler handles the transition from 8-man to . :11-man football. While the Panthers are not . :lacking in talent, they will be the thinnest : team in the league, as they only have 26 : players on this year's squad. Imbler cannot . :afford to have the injury bug hit the squad. . :Also, will the next starting quarterback be : able to take pressure off Griffin?
Toughest game Oct. 3, at Burns, 6 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 9C
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KICKOFF 2014
10C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"Coaches havedone a really good job of making this feel like a football team. We might go to sleep in two different towns, but we play asone." 3ordan Alexander,Union/Cove running back By Eric Avissar
'There is so much more involved in 11-man plays," Murchison said. "There is also so much more team ollowing a 3-5 record and a 2-5 finish in the Blue movement to account for. EveryMountainLeague,Union one is looking to improve and fight now enters its second fortheirspots." season of 11-man football, joining Following the departure of forces with Cove, forming a co-op workhorse running back Ty Coon that has head coach Jon Reynolds throughgraduation,Reynolds excited for the future. plans to involve a trio of running "At the beginning of this, we had backs to handle the workload in a lot of kids on the fence," the team's triple option offensive Reynolds said.'You're coming attack. He said Union's Jordan from your program and melding Alexander and Aaron Clark along with ours, you don't know if you with Cove's Tayton Duby-Gerlach have your spot. The talent we've will each provide something differhad has doubled. The kids are ent for the rushing attack. 'Tayton is an-old fashioned scat happy excited and can't wait to win football games." back," Reynolds said."He hits the Reynolds also said he feels like hole really quick and can really his new team is twice as talented bounce it outside. Jordan is a conas last year's with the addition verted fullback and on the wing. of Cove players who are now He will push linemen through adjusting to 11-man football after the hole, and he's fast. He won't run away from contact. Aaron is playing 8-man at the 1A level last season. One of the players who will speedy and doesn't back down from contact. He's a smart runner, play a major role is starting quarterback Derek Murchison, a senior and knows where everyone is. I who admitted the transition from couldn't be happier with our run8-man football at Cove to 11-man ning backs this year." has been a challenging one. Reynolds added that Clark, who VVescom News Service
EricAvissarNvescom News sennce
Senior running back Jordan Alexander looks for running room during a fall practice at Union High School. The Bobcats enter their first season in a co-op with Cove. started at quarterback for Union lastseason,could lineup asa quarterback as well. Since Clark is more of a running quarterback and Murchison is considered a more proficient thrower, Murchison is expected to open up Union/
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 5 at Um a tilla Sept. 12 Riverside Sept. 19 at P ilot Rock Sept. 26 Irrigon Oct. 10 Imbler Oct. 17 a t Grant Union Oct. 24 Burns Oct. 31 at E nterprise All Times Pacific
eavissarOtagrandeobservercom
BOBCATS AT A GlANCE Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m.
Coach Jon Reynolds (three years, 8-17 record)
2013 record 4-5 overall, 2-5 2A Blue Mountain Conference, did not make playoffs
2014 Conference
2013 RESULTS (4-5) Date Opponent Sept. 3 McLoughlin (JV) Sept.13 Riverside Sept. 20 Grant Union Sept. 27 Stanfield Heppner Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Wes.-McE/Griswold Oct. 18 Irrigon Oct. 25 Enterprise Nov. 1 Pilot Rock/Nixyaawii
Cove's playbook with a stronger passing attack. While Clark has previous experience playing running back, Reynolds said the junior is handling the transition with aplomb. "The co-op talk began in
January, and Aaron knew Derek is more of a thrower than him," Reynolds said."He just said as long as I'm playing football I'm happy. We've had to make a lot of kids change positions. They've handled the changes well. They're willing to do what it takes to help the team, and often receive more playing time. Derek is gone next year, and Aaron will probably be our quarterback as a senior." With Reynolds expecting the WapitiLeague tobe a run-heavy conference, Union/Cove will utilize a 4-4 as its base defense. He added that his team is comfortable putting eight men in the box because his players are fast enough to defend the pass. As Union and Cove gear up for their first season together, Alexander is adamant that the team is still a tight-knit unit. "Coaches have done a really good job of making this feel like a football team,"Alexander said.'We might go to sleep in two different towns, but we play as one."
Result W,53-6 W, 13-12 L, 0-60 L, 26-74 L, 0-46 L, 14-39 L, 0-34 W, 10-7 W, 44-20
Q~ FOLLOWERICAVtSSARONTWITTER QlgoAvissa
2A Wapiti League • Imbler • Enterprise • Grant Union • Burns • Union/Cove
Returning starters Total: N/A Offense: N/A Defense: N/A
Key loss • Ty Coon, RB/LB
: :finds in its firstyear asa co-op.After starting : :at quarterback for Union last year, Aaron : 'Clark is making way for Cove's Derrick : 'Murchison to step in as the team's signal : 'caller. If Murchison can open up the rushing : :attack by throwing the ball accurately Reynolds Clark Alexa n der : 'downfield, Union/Cove's offense could Key returnees : 'prove to be extremely difficult to slow • Aaron Clark, RB/LB down. • Jordan Alexander, RB/LB Questionmarks • J.D. Graves, TE/DE : The transition from 8-man to 11-man : football for the Cove students could prove Key newcomers : to be challenging, as Murchison has already • Derrick Murchison, QB/DE : admitted he has so much more to keep • Tayton Duby, RB/DB : track of with six more players on the field to • Chad Witty, RB/LB : account for. Also, it remains to be seen how . :Reynolds will be able to make the Union : and Cove players mesh together, as several Keys to success Union'Cove's ability to deceive opponents . :players were forced to change positions. and execute the triple option attack precisely will define how much success Union'Cove
Toughest game Oct. 17, at Grant Union, 6 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 11C
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KICKOFF 2014
12C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"We have the returning 2Aand 1Astate champion, and also Burns is coming down from 3A.Honestly, I don't see any easygamesthis year." Mike Rowley,Enterprise headcoach By Josh Benham VVescom News Service
astyear left a bad taste in Enterprise head coach Mike Rowley's mouth. The Outlaws went 3-6 in 2013 and failed to make the playoffs. It was the only season during Rowley's four-year tenure the team didn't make the postseason. "My goal is to make the playoffs again," Rowley said.aWe made the playoffs threeyearsagoand returned the next year. I want to get back. I want the kids to compete and earna little respectfor our conference." Enterprise finished last year 2-5 in the Blue Mountain Conference, with one of the losses being a 10-7 heartbreaker to Union. In order to get back to the playoffs, it will have to replace nine seniors, six of whom made impacts: Tristan Moorehouse, who received league honorsforthree yearsatdefensive end and tight end, Trevor Wentz on both lines, quarterback Kyle Roepke,running back Cody White, Damon Greenshields, who Rowley said was constantly double and
the leader of the line as well as a mentor to the younger players. "Being a senior, you really have to step up," Kohlhepp said."Last year wekind ofhad a problem with leadership, so you just have to stepup and getinto thatrole." otaass Junior Andrew Curtis is a 280-pound lineman, and senior center Nikolai Christoffersen, the third-place finisher at state track in the javelin throw, has experience on both sides. "Nikolai's been working and lifting weights harder than anyone all summer," Rowley said."I expect Josh BenhamNVescom News Service him to have a big year." Senior center Nikolai Christoffersen runs through conditioning The offensive line unit will play drills during fall practice at Enterprise High School. Christoffersen a big role early as Rowley breaks in a new quarterback. Juniors Jusis one of a trio of offensive linemen expected to lead an experitin Exon and Will McCadden are enced offensiveline. in themidst ofa battleto become tripleteamed atdefensiveend and of the returning starters will help the starting quarterback. "I just want to do whatever the fullback, and middle linebacker Enterprise greatl y in thatrespect. Matt Staigle. Senior Daniel Kohlhepp, who team needs," Exon said. Whatever The team has seven starters was ninth in the discus at the 2A is best for the team is fine with me." back this season and three others state track and field championwho received significant playing ships last May, anchors the offenIfMcCadden ends up being the time ayear ago.Footballpurists sive and defensive sides after lead- second-string quarterback, the always talk about winning the ing the Outlaws with 65 tackles. junior will still play a large role battle in the trenches, and three Kohlhepp has a big role, serving as in the offense after rushing for a
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 5 at S t a nfield Sept. 12 at McLoughlin Sept. 19 Heppner Sept. 26 Bye Oct. 3 Gran t Union Oct. 10 Bye Oct. 17 at Burns Oct. 24 at Imbler Oct. 31 Unio n 'Cove AllTimes Pacific
Opponent Orofino, Idaho McLoughlin Wes-Mc/Gris Heppner Grant Union Irrigon Pilot Rock/Nix Union Stanfield
j benham@lagrandeobservercom
OUTLAWS AT A GLANCE Time 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 2 p.m. 7 p.m.
01 ESULTS(3-6) Date Sept. 6 Sept.13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct.11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
team-best451 yards on 71carries last season. "I'm pretty excited about Will this year," Rowley said. Isaac Rowley, the second-leading rusher with 262 yards, is back for his junior year, and will start at tailback. While the offense has some question marks at quarterback,it'sthedefensive end position that will need to find replacements. Rowley hopes someone can stepup beforetheseason starts. Behind the line, the linebacking corps is seasoned. "Our linebackers are solid. We have three out of the four coming back, so that's probably going to be a strength," Rowley said.aWade Isley is just a sophomore, but he's really solid, and Exon and McCadden bothstarted there lastyear." That experience defensively will come in handy in the extremely competitive2A Wapiti League, especially with the addition of Imbler, the reigning 1A state champ, to a league with last year's 2A title-holder, Grant Union.
Result L, 6-48 W, 18-7 L, 0-12 L, 0-30 L, 3-50 W,31-8 W, 62-13 L, 7-10 L, 21-51
Q~ FOLLOW JOSH BENHAM ON TWITTER QlgoBenham
Coach Mike Rowley (fourth year, 14-14 overall record)
2013 record 3-6 overall, 2-5 2A Blue Mountain Conference, did not make playoffs
2014 Conference
Rowley
Kohlhepp
Key returnees
Exon
Kohlhepp, who will bea fouryear starter on the line. JuniorsWill McCadden and Justin Exon : 'are battling it out for the quarterback position, : 'but regardless of who wins out, both players : 'are skilled rushers, and the offense should be : 'able to move the ball on the ground with either : 'player manning the quarterback spot.
Questionmarks • Will McCadden, RB/QB (451 rushing yards, 2A Wapiti League : :Enterprise was already in fora tough year 2TDs) • Burns • Imbler : :with the addition of Imbler to the Wapiti • Isaac Rowley, RB (262 yards, 2TDs) • Elgin • UniorVCove : 'from 1A, and Burns dropping down from 3A • Daniel Kohlhepp, OUDL (65 tackles) • Grant Union • Enterprise : 'to 2A. But thetaskof rising to thetop ofthe Key newcomers : 'league becomes even more difficult with all Returning starters • Wade Isley, LB, 20 tackles Total: 7 : :the losses, in particular on defense. Damon • Justin Exon, LB/RB/QB (25 tackles, 42 Offense: 3 : 'Greenshields andTristan Moorehouse rushing yards) Defense: 4 : :forced teams to gameplan around at : :their defensive end position, and their Key losses : :graduations will leave gaping holes on the • Kyle Roepke, QB (396 passing yards, 5TDs):: Keys to success : 'edges of the Outlaws' defensive line. • Tristan Moorehouse, TE/DE (161 receiving Nikolai Christoffersen, Daniel Kohlhepp and Andrew Curtis all bringa wealth of yards, 2TDs, 50 tackles) Toughest game • Matt Staigle, FB/MLB, 210 yards, 3TDs experience on the offensive line, especially : :Oct. 3, vs. Grant Union, 7 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 13C
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KICKOFF 2014
14C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"We are really fortunate becauseour kids are unselfish and willing to rotate. They're here just to win, and it's really exciting to work with that."
BrockEckstein,El gi n head coach By EricAvissar
last season. In his first season in charge, he Elgin football program head coach Brock Eckstein is taking one step back in oversaw a hapless Huskie hopes of taking two steps squad that finished 2012 with forward. a winless season. During that After competing as a Class 2A season, Eckstein said it seemed independentprogram in 8-man as if a differentplayerwas getfootball, the Huskies successtmg carted off wrth an rn]ury fully petitioned the OSAA in the every game. spring to become a 1A indeThe work ethic of the Huskies pendent program. This means paiddividends in 2013,asthey that for the second year in a finished the season with a 5-3 row, Elgin will not be eligible for record. "It was refreshing to know we the postseason. However, wide receiver Gavin Christensen have a good program going and doesn't believe motivation will are heading on the right track," be an issue. Eckstein said on the team's "It's not hard for us to stay resounding improvement last motivated because we only season. For the third straight season, get four years ofhigh school football," Christensen said.cWe Christensen will be catching have fiiends and family suppasses from Gage Little, a fellow porting us, and we want to give junior that Eckstein sees a great EricAvissarNVesCom News Sennce 110 percent every time we step deal of talent in. "Gage hasa phenomenal arm Elgin quarterback Gage Little throws a on the field." Christensen is the team's top and can throw a great deep deep ball during practice at Elgin High School. The Huskies are playing the 2014 returning receiver after hauling ball," Eckstein said."He also has in nine touchdowns while acseason as a 1A independent and are great accuracy." ineligible for postseason play. cumulating 463 receiving yards Little said all ofhis teamVVescom News Service
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 4 vs. D ayton, Wash. Sept. 12 at Harper/Huntington Sept. 19 vs. Jordan Valley, at BakerCity Sept. 26 vs. Pine Eagle Oct. 3 at Arlee, Mont. Oct. 10 at Perrydale Oct. 17 at Echo Oct. 24 at lone Oct. 31 Cond o n/Wheeler All Times Pacific
Eckstein still feels his team is physically strong. "Speed will help us compensateforoursize,"Eckstein said. cWe don't have big linemen, but we have strong kids. We lift every day and have a lot of speed and power. We don't have the brute size, but we still have plenty of strength." Eckstein added that he plans on playing to the strengths of his kids, as he will run a lot of deception plays and counters. Along with proven targets in the passing game, Elgin will also utilize a timeshare system for its running backs, which has createda collective sense of unselfishness that Eckstein appreciates. cWe're really fortunate because our kids are unselfish and willing to rotate," he said. "They're here just to win, and it's really exciting to work with that." eavissarOlagrandeobservercom
HUSIGES AT A GlANCE Time 7 p.m. 12 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. TBD 2 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 5 p.m.
2013 RESULTS(5-3) Date Opponent Sept. 6 Pine Eagle Sept.13 Harper/Huntington Sept. 20 Joseph Oct. 4 Arlington Oct. 11 Rosalia, Wash. Oct. 18 Echo Oct. 25 lone Nov. 1 Wallowa
mates are focused on the season ahead, and he is excited to take the next step forward. "I want to have a cohesive team that works together," Little said.cWe all want to have another winning season." In the backfield, junior Jaydon McKayreturns after notching 143 yards and two touchdowns last season, while senior Jordan Vermillion gained 312 yards and three scores on the ground. McKay and Vermillion will have little time to rest, as both will play key roles for the defense as linebackers. Eckstein said he is excited for the upcoming season in large part because the program has continually improved its depth sincehe took overbeforethe 2012 season. Last year, the Huskies finished the season with 13 players, and began fallpractices for the upcoming season with 30 players. Although none of his players weigh more than 190 pounds,
Result W,34,-28 W,48-12 W,42-0 L, 14-28 L, 26-50 W, 60-16 L, 14-38 W,58-0
Q~ FOLLOWERICAVISSARONTWITTER QlgoAvissa
Coach Brock Eckstein (third year at school, 5-11 record)
2013 record 5-3, Ineligible for posteason
2014 League 1A Independent The Huskies are playing the 2014 season asa 1A independent and are ineligible for postseason play.
Returning starters Total: 6 Offense: 2 Defense: 4
Eckstein
Little
Key returnees : '• Gage Little, QB : '• Gavin Christensen, WR : '• Jordan Vermillion, RB/LB :: •Jaydon McKay, RB/LB
Key newcomers • Chance Weaver, RB/LB • Steven Sandgren, OUDL • Devon Packaro, OUDL • Correy Collins, OUDL
Key losses • Jake Burgess, TE • Curtis Little, OUDL • Hayden Bershenyi, RB/LB
Keys to success The biggest keyto success for Elgin offensively will be the rapport between quarterback Gage Little and wide receiver
: :Gavin Christensen. Little's arm strength : :makes his last name very deceptive, while : 'Christensen isa strong route runner who is : 'adept at catching passes in traffic. Another : 'major key to success will be how Eckstein : 'distributes the workload between running : 'backs Jordan Vermillion, Jaydon McKay : :and Chance Weaver. He will have to keep all : :three healthy and happy.
Questionmarks : The biggest question mark for any program : like Elgin that plays as an independent : will be how the players can be motivated for an entire season when they have no : postseason to play for. Another interesting : question will be how does Christensen . :handle the added attention from defenses , :nowthat Elginno longer hastightend Jake : :Burgess.
Toughest game Oct. 31, vs. Condon/Wheeler, 7 p.m.
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KICKOFF 2014
16C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
nlt feels like we've been one win short every year. When we don't make
the playoffs year aReryear, it wears on you." BlakeDennis,Pine Eagl e head coach By Gerry Steele VVesCom News Servrce
ine-Eagle football head coach Blake Dennis approves of what the Oregon Ifs School Activities Association has done in realigning the Class 1A districts. "It's a whole new configuration, and I like the way it's set up," Dennis said."It's the best opportunity schoolsour sizehave had to get •s into the playofFs in several years. I'm hoping our team will take advantage of that." Pine-Eagle joins Echo, Joseph, Powder Valley and Wallowa in the new Special District 1 North Division. = The Spartans, who fi nished 3-6 overall and 1-4 in the Old Oregon League a year ago, have not advancedtothepostseason since 2004. Their last league title was in 2002 when Pine-Eagle was cochampion of the Wapiti League. S. John CollinsNVescom News Service Dennis also is counting on Pine Eagle linemen practice their blocking and pass rushing skills experience to help the Spartans' during practice in Halfway. chances. The only departure from "He'sa solid athletewho started last season's squad is quarterback spring. Dennis will replace Seal Justin Seal, who graduated last with Shane Denig. at middlelinebacker forus asa II
4!
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 5 Jordan Valley Sept. 12 Prairie City Sept. 20 at Monument/Dayville Sept. 26 at Elgin Oct. 3 at Wallowa Oct. 10 Powder Valley Oct. 17 Joseph Oct. 24 at Echo AII TimesPacific
Opponent Jordan Valley (JV) Elgin Prairie City Perrydale Cove Powder Valley Wallowa Joseph Imbler
Result W, 14-6 L, 28-34 W,48-14 L, 26-40 L, 22-34 L, 24-74 W,54-6 L, 34-56 L, 0-62
0 F OLLOW ONTWITTERQbakercityspoits
fiom the majority of the same group. Dennis said experience is obviously a team strength. The Spartans' top weakness is a lack of playofFexperience. Dennis said he thinks five league wins will be enough to have a successful season. "Those league games will determine playofFplacing. We take the preseason games seriously, but they only prepare us for what's ahead," Dennis said. He added that the team's largestgoalthisseason isto m ake sure every player is committed to to the team. eWe haven't made any big longterm goals. We want to take each the backfield. game week by week and prepare Senior Ray Denig, a four-year for the opponent of that week," starter, will anchor the line at the Dennis said. center position. Senior Nathan McHe said his biggest concern, like Coy returns at guard. The starters that of most coaches, is keeping at the other line positions have yet the team healthy. eWe have 18 out right now, as to be decided, Dennis said. Thorn is expected to be one of always, we don't want to have any Shane Denig's go-to targets, as the injuries," Dennis said.'We don't senior will return to his split end want to lose any players." position out wide. The Spartans defense will come gsteele@bakercityherald.com
SPARTANS AT A GULNCE Time 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 1 p.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 7 p.m.
2013 RESULTS 3-6 Date Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept.13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct.11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25
freshman,n Dennis said of Shane Denig. The Spartans return six offensivestartersfrom a year ago, including seniors Ray Denig, Jon Thorn, Nathan McCoy and Isaiah Simpson, along with juniors Jeff Rice and Shane Denig. Rice will handle the bulk of the workload at running back. Playing in just 3-V2 games last season, Riceran forover900 yards forthe Spartans. "He has a ton of talent, and I really hope he has a good season," Dennis said."He is definitely a game-breakingathlete. Simpson and sophomore Nathan McCall also will see time in
Coach
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Blake Dennis (20 years)
2013 record 3-6 overall, 1-41A Special District 4, did not make playoffs Dennis
2014 Conference
Rice
Key returnees
R. Denig
1A Special District 1 : :• Ray Denig, OUDL North Division Sout h Division : :• Jeff Rice, RB • Pine Eagle • Adrian : '• Isaiah Simpson, WR/DB •Joseph • Crane ': • JonThorn, WR/DB • Powder Valley • Harper/Huntington Key newcomers • Echo • Jordan Valley • Joseph Aguilar, LB/TE •Wallowa • Monument/Dayville • Hayden Kuda, RB/DL Returning starters • Colton Walker, DE/G : :• Nathan Seggerman, G/DL Total: 14 Offense: 7 Keys to success Defense: 7 Head coach Blake Dennis is adamant that the biggest key to success for his team is Key loss • Justin Seal, QB simply confidence. For the past several :
:
: :seasons, Dennis said his team has finished : 'between the middle or close to the top of : :the league. With no more Imbler and Cove : 'to deal with, Dennis sees this new league as : :an opportunity for the Spartans to reach the : :playoffs for the first time since 2004. If Jeff : 'Rice can play the whole season, Pine Eagle's : 'rushing attackcould become devastating for : :opponents.
Questionmarks Like many 8-man football teams, the : Spartans are one injury away from disaster. : Whether or not all Pine Eagle players, . :especially Denig and Rice, can stay healthy . :has to be the biggest question mark heading : :into the season. Additionally,a major : question mark heading into the season is , :how Shane Denig will handle the starting . :quarterback role, replacing Justin Seal.
Toughest game Oct. 10, vs. Powder Valley, 2 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014 0
THE OBSERVER & BAKER CITY HERALD — 17C
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KICKOFF 2014
18C —THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
• The nine best of the best from Baker, Wallowa and Union counties will grab everyone's attention by making plays on both sides of the ball ootball isa team sportthatrequiresevery person on the field working in unison. But it's inevitable that certain players shine brighter than the rest. It could be the slashing running back with terrific feet and vision who keeps the crowd on the edge of their seat, threatening to bust a touchdown run at any moment, or the mauling lineman that decimates anything and everything in his path. Or maybe the quarterback with ice water in his veins that looks at a late fourth-quarter deficit and smirks, then marches his team down the field for the game-winner. It could be the wide receiver who catches anything in his radius, or perhaps it's the menacing defender who gives the opposing coaches and
players headaches all game long. These are the best of the best in Union, Baker and Wallowa counties. The nine players who will demand the attention of everybody on and off the field every game this fall. Their respective teams turn to them for leadership in big games and at critical moments and to step up and make big plays. The stars enjoy stepping up to the challenge when their team needs them most. Which player will lead his team to the state playoffs? Which one will earn all-conference or all-state honors this year? Which star will shine the brightest and take his place as the No. 1 star of them all? Here is what you need to know about all nine teams'starplayers.
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
Daniel Kohlhepp, Enterprise Outlaws CLASS/POSITION Senior, OUDL HEIGHTNVEIGHT 6-foot-1, 235 pounds WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Daniel is a four-year starter on the offensive line. With his wrestling and track and field accomplishments, it proves he is not just a stiff and slow lineman, but a versatile athlete that can move for a big guy. CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Made state during freshman season, the first time team had been to state in10 years.
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WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "Daniel's a good leader. It was his idea to bring up some of the freshman to help them, and so he decided to step back a little bit in practice and help bring them along." — Mike Rowley, Enterprise head coach
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Brandon Dall, La Grande Tigers
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Ray Denig,Pine Eagle Spaitans
CLASS/POSITION Sophomore, QB/DB
CLASS/POSITION Senior, QB
CLASS/POSITION Senior, OUDL
CLASS/POSITION Senior, QB/S
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 5-foot-g, 140 pounds
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 6-foot-1, 180 pounds
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 6-foot-1, 210 pounds
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 6-foot, 170 pounds
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Excelled as a freshman, averaging over 5 yards per carry on the ground, compiling 458 yards and two touchdowns. Takesover as quarterback for the graduated WyattWarnock.
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Dall enters his senior year at La Grande with a season and a half of starting experience under his belt. Dall also possesses the mobility to scramble for first downs.
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Head coachBlake DennisconsidersDenig to be his defensive stalwart, as opponents constantly have to double-team him.
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Talented athlete who has already shown his prowess as a primary receiving target last season. This season, he will replace Thomas Hamilton at quarterback.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Earning all-league honorable mention last season as a freshman.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Threw game-winning TD and converted a 2-point conversion to beat Mac-Hi last year.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Denigwas named asecond-team allSpecial District 4 selection at defensive tackle.
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "This year, he's going to add a lot to them again, and he's going to be the bulk of their offense this year. He's a stud in our league. He'll be fun to watch." — DanTownsend, PowderValley head coach
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "Brandon has a solid arm, and he is very coachable. He doeseverything Iaskas a coach, which is great to see from our starting quarterback." — Chad Smith, La Grande head coach
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "He makesthe linebackers lookgood,and he is a true force to be reckoned with. Ray is a gamebreaker on the defensive side of the ball." — BlakeDennis,Pine Eagle head coach
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Caught two touchdown passes and had an interception in Baker's 32-22 win over Weiser, Idaho, last season. WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "Keaton is a very talented kid. He works very hard, so I'm sure he's doing everything he can to prepare for his transition." — Tim Hutchison,McLoughlin head coach
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 19C
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Gage Little, Elgin Huskies
3oe GriNn, Imbler Panthers
Seth Dixon, Powder Valley Badgers Gareth Murray, Wallowa Cougars
CLASS/POSITION Junior, QB
CLASS/POSITION Senior, RB/DB
CLASS/POSITION Sophomore, QB/LB
CLASS/POSITION Senior, OL/DE
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 6-foot-3, 180 pounds
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 5-foot-7, 150 pounds
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 5-foot-g, 170 pounds
HEIGHTNVEIGHT 6-foot-1, 160 pounds
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Enters the season with two years of starting experience already under his belt. The Huskies' signal caller possesses a strong arm and sharp accuracy.
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Griffin is a very quick and elusive running back. He was named1Aco-player of theyear after playing a starring role on Imbler's state championship team.
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST As a freshman, Dixon rushed for 1,003 yards and compiled 522 yards receiving while leading Powder Valley with 13 touchdowns.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Threw for 775 yards and 11 touchdowns during his sophomore season, leading Elgin to a 5-3 record.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Totaled 2,203 rushing yards on 188 carries, averaging 11.72 carries per game last year.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Beating Condon/Wheeler, the 16th-ranked team at the time, 51-0, and Echo, 60-14.
WHY HE MAKESTHE LIST Murray has stood with the program during a few tumultuous years in Wallowa, and it looks like his perseverance will pay off. The teamshould be much improved, and the senior is at the forefront of it. Murray is responsible for recognizing the defense and making the offensive line calls.
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "Joe is shifty and can change directions very well. He's physical for a smaller back and hasexcellentspeed,greatm oves and catches the ball as well as anyone." — Lee Lowe, Imbler head coach
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "I think he's someone you're going to have to watch out for, as far as our league, as far as somebody that will be able to get yardage and score touchdowns." — Josh Harman, Jose h head coach
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "Gage hasa phenomenal arm and can throw a great deep ball. He also has great accuracy." — Brock Eckstein, Elgin head coach
WHATTHEY'RE SAYING "He's a straightforward, shake-your-hand kind of kid. He's a great leader by example out here on the football field. Gareth is definitely a star in our book." — Matt Brockamp,Wallowa head coach
2013 HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS Class 6A First Round Jesuit 56, Crater 21 Lake Oswego 35, Sunset 28 Lakeridge 30, South Medford 17 Southridge 28, West Linn 20 Beaverton 35, Sprague 34 Canby 35, Newberg 7 Tualatin 14, Centennial 3 Sheldon 56, Lincoln 28 Central Catholic 55, Century 7 McNary 30, Roseburg 14 Glencoe 49, West Salem 34 Clackamas 47, Aloha 7 North Medford 49, Reynolds 27 Oregon City 40, McMinnville 23 Grants Pass 54, Westview 7 Tigard 57, Gresham 29 Second Round Jesuit 21, Lake Oswego 19 Lakeridge 28, Southridge 20 Canby 31, Beaverton 7 Sheldon 45, Tualatin 21 Central Catholic 62, McNary 7 Clackamas55,Glencoe 21 North Medford 14, Oregon City 9 Tigard 62, Grants Pass 3
Quarterfinals Jesuit 62, Lakeridge 33 Canby 24, Sheldon 17 Central Catholic 42, Clackamas 7 Tigard 42, North Medford 0 Semifinals Jesuit 35, Canby 17
Central Catholic 83, Tigard 49 Final Central Catholic 38, Jesuit 28
Ridgeview 49, Philomath 17 Cottage Grove 37, North Bend 34 Finals Ridgeview 50, Cottage Grove 31
Quarterfinals
Class 5A First Round Sherwood 55, Churchill 0 Crescent Valley 36, Wilsonville 29 Ashland54, Penmdleton 9 Roosevelt 38, Marist 35 Springfield 70, Franklin 20 Silverton 35, Mountain View0 Dallas 41, Hermiston 35 WestAlbany 48, Summit 20 Quarterfinals Sherwood 68, Crescent Valley 7 Ashland 13, Roosevelt 7 Silverton 35, Springfield 3 WestAlbany 51, Dallas 6 Semifinals Sherwood 57, Ashland 12 WestAlbany 17, Silverton 0 Final WestAlbany 21, Sherwood 20
Class 4A First Round Philomath 49, Ontario 27 Gladstone 29, Siuslaw 9 Henley 28, Banks 19 Ridgeview 41, North Valley 12 Scappoose 39, Elmire 32 North Bend/OCT 35, Cascade 7
Heppner 48, Reedsport Charter 8 Monroe 25, Lost River 14 Oakland 33, Kennedy 7 Regis 61, Stanfield 0
Class 3A First Round Dayton 42, Coquille 12 Blanchet Catholic 28, Valley Catholic 24 Nyssa 48, lllinois Valley 10 Santiam Christian 49, Colton 0 Cascade Christian 56, Pleasant Hill 7 Rainier 42, Horizon Christian, Tualatin 0 Vale 46, Clatskanie 0 Harrisburg 49, Geivais 0
Quarterfinals
Thomas Boyd/TheOregonian
Central Catholic head coach Steve Pyne gets an ice cold bath on an ice cold day after beating Jesuit High School in the OSAA 6A Football Championships at Jeld-VVen Field in Portland last season. Central 41, Klamath Union 40 Cottage Grove 48, Seaside 32
Quarterfinals Philomath 35, Gladstone 17
Ridgeview 28, Henley 21 North Bend/OCT 21, Scappoose 20 Cottage Grove 42, Central 38 Semifinals
Dayton 20, Blanchet Catholic 7 Nyssa 29, Santiam Chnstian 0 Cascade Christian 68, Rainier 12 Vale 27, Harrisburg 25 Semifinals Nyssa 19, Dayton 15 Cascade Christian 24, Vale 19 Finals Cascade Christian 41, Nyssa 6
Class 2A First Round Portland Christian 49, North Douglas 0 Knappa 42, Weston-McEwen/Griswold 7 Gold Beach 34, Central Linn 0 Grant Union 49, Nestucca 20
Portland Christian 21, Knappa 7 Grant Union 24, Gold Beach 14 Heppner 52, Monroe 7 Regis 44, Oakland19 Semifinals Grant Union 34, Portland Christian 24 Regis 21, Heppner 14 Finals Grant Union 12, Regis 7
Class 1A First Round Lowell 56, Condon/Wheeler 0 St. Paul 72, Yoncalla 44 Adrian 62, Elkton 20 Camas Valley 64, Crane 34 Imbler 59, Perrydale 14 Triad 38, Powder Valley 34 Triangle Lake 46, Sherman 36 Dufur 70, Monument/Dayville 14
Quarterfinals Lowell 60, St. Paul 22 Camas Valley 52, Adrian 28 Imbler 74, Triad 22 Triangle Lake 40, Dufur 30 Semifinals Lowell 68, Camas Valley 44 Imbler 62, Triangle Lake 6 Finals Imbler 88, Lowell 76
KICKOFF 2014
20C — THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"If we play with confidenceand show upwith that mentality, that's all you can ask of the kids. The scoreboard will be what it is at the end of the game." Matt Brockamp, Wallowa headcoach By Josh Benham vvescom News serwce
n unusual sight greets visitors to Wallowa practices. Amidst all the kids in pads and helmets, a man in tshirt and shorts is seen weaving his way through players, stopping when the whistle blows to instruct players on what he just saw. It's safe to say new head coach Matt Brockamp takes a hands-on approach. "Coach is really pumped up in practice," sophomore running back Travis Haga said."He actually runs with us, so it's been a lot of fun." That fresh voice is being counted on to kickstart the Cougar program. Brockamp was hired in the offseason after a two-year stretch in which Wallowa went 1-15. Beyond the X's and Os, Brockamp is trying to turn around the culture that spread throughout the team. "Based on what I've seen, our biggest weakness has been attitude and confidence," he said. aWe're going to coach them out of
Jash BenhamNVesCom News Sennce
Wallowa running back Chandler Burns, left, trails, as head coach Matt Brockamp as the coach runs an option play during a fall practice atWallowa High School. that mindset of, 'this stinks, we're getting our butts kicked,' and reinforce the idea of playing to win." To do that, the team is wiping thepastseasons from theircollectivememories. "Last year's gone — this is a new beginning," sophomore Chandler Burns said.aWe're actually going to try to go all the way."
Whereas last season, the Cougar roster barely reached double figures, the turnout this fall has been much better. With18 kids at the initial practices, two seniors will be heavily relied on. Gareth Murray will man the center position on the offensive line while playing defensive end on thatsideoftheball.
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Sept. 5 at lone Sept. 12 at Condon/Wheeler Sept. 20 vs. Crane, at Baker Sept. 26 at Echo Oct. 3 Pine Eagle Oct. 10 Bye Oct. 17 Powder Valley Oct. 24 Joseph AllTimes Pacific
Opponent Echo Condon/Wheeler Bye Joseph Imbler Pine Eagle Powder Valley Cove Elgin
the fieid.a The duo will have a large role in the offense as Wallowa transitions into more of a ground attack. aWe're going to run the ball," Brockamp said."I don't want to say much more than that. It's going to be something new, that not a lot of teams run in Oregon. Wallowa has been kind of a spread passingteam forthe last10years, butit' sgoing to bedifferent." Brockamp starred at Silverton High School before patrolling the secondary at Southern Oregon, and he wants his defense to be an aggressive unit that plays with reckless abandon and flies to the football. That attitude is already rubbing off on the players. aWe have to play tough defense, and I want to see a lotofhard hits this year," Murray said. Brockamp expects North Powder to be one of the top teams in Special District 1, with Joseph right up there. But he's more worried about his team shrugging off the strugglesfrom lastyear. joshbenham@tagrandeobservercom
COUGARS AT AGlANCE Time 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 3 p.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m.
2013 RESULTS (0-8) Date Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1
"I'm just trying to go out and end my career on a good note," Murray said."I don't think about last year." Fullback and middle linebacker Micah Fuller is the other senior after transferring from La Grande. 'The transition from 11-man to 8-man football hasbeen a bitofa challenge, but it's a lot of fun, and I'll think I'll enjoy it," Fuller said. Even though it's his first year at Wallowa, Fuller has embraced the role in making a quick turnaround. "I've been around teams that haven't won a lot, and I've seen the looks on the seniors faces when they don't win," Fuller said."I just don't want to have that same expression on my face when the end of the season comes around. I want to be able to look back without any regretsand say thatI'vegiven it 100 percent every chance I get." A couple of talented running backs return for their sophomore campaigns in Burns and Travis Haga. aWe bothhave alotofspeed," Haga said.'We'ze prettybig and built. Hopefullywe11 beb~ power through the line and acmss
Result L, 22-50 L, 30-62 L, 26-54 L, 6-68 L, 6-54 L, 20-56 L, 12-66 L, 0-58
0~ FOLLOW JOSH BENHAM ON TWITTER QlgoBenham
Coach
Keys to success
Matt Brockamp (first year at school)
2013 record 0-8 overall, 0-5 Special District 4, did not make playoffs
2014 Conference
Brockamp
Full e r
Key returnees 1A Special District 1 : :• Gareth Murray, OUDL North Division Sout h Division : :• Cole Hafer, TE/LB • Pine Eagle • Adrian : :• Chandler Burns, RB • Joseph • Crane : 'aTravis Haga, RB • Powder Valley • Harper/Huntington : :• Noah Allen, DB • Echo • Jordan Valley : :• Koby Frye, QB/LB • Wallowa • Monument/Dayville Returning starters Total: 9 Offense: 5 Defense: 4
Key newcomers Key losses
• Chaz Murray • Spencer Shelton
• Micah Fuller, FB/LB • Joe Pendarvis, OL • Caevan Murray, OUDL • Cameron Salmon, OUDE • Ethan Burns, OUDL
Murray
: 'Wallowa has a lot of speed highlighted by : 'the running backtandem of Chandler Burns 'andTravis Haga.Theycan give the defenses : : :multiple fronts with all the versatility in the ' ,backfield, which will be enhanced with the : :addition of Fuller, who serves as a bruising : 'fullback with additional speed.
Questionmarks With all that speed comes a shortage of size up front, which could pose problems against teams with bigger players in the trenches. Brockamp said that the biggest issues with the team include playing with confidence after the last couple seasons, and he will have to get the team to develop a better mindset over the course of this year.
Toughest game Sept. 20, vs. Crane, at Baker, 3 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 21C
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22C —THE OBSERVER rr BAKER CITY HERALD
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"It's going to be a lot different with losing Imbler andCove. Things aregoing to bedifferent, we'll see some newteams." Dan Townsend,PowderValley head coach By Josh Benham
1A SPECIALDISTRICT 1 AT A GlANCE
VVescom News Service
new league always brings uncertainty, but most 1A Special District 1 coaches agree on one thing — Adrian is the team to beat. The Antelopes are expected to be one of the teams vying for a state title berth, as it only lost threeplayers offa team that reached the quarterfinals a year ago before being bounced out by Camas Valley, 52-28. The Antelopes went 8-2 and won all eight conference games. Quarterback Reagan Shira is back, as are a trio of running backs: Morgan White, Bryson Shira and Chase Walker. Seniors Jett McCoy and Tyler Reay headline a stout offensive line with junior Mikey GriSn. Crane also was beaten by Camas Valley in the first round of the playoffs, ending its 7-3 season. Head coach Stub Travis said the team hastoreplace the offensive line after losing three starters to graduation, buta few key players are back. Quarterback Travis Landon, running back/linebacker Austin Roath, wide receiver/ defensive end Matt Witzel and defensive end Joe Valentine will try to edge Adrian in their Oct. 24 meeting. Powder Valley was 7-3 a year ago as well, with a 4-1 conference mark, before getting beat by Triad 38-34 in the first round of the playoffs. In order to get back to postseason play, the Badgers must replace six seniors. Sophomore Seth Dixon will play quarterback, who scored 13 touchdowns with over1,500 yards oftotaloffense, and running back Sean Stanford, who finished with 250 yards and three touchdowns. Three offensive line starters — Eddy Bedolla, Lee McElligott and Shane Hoopaiare back, as the Badgers hope to navigate the new conference. "It's going to be a lot different with losing Imbler and Cove," Powder Valley head coach Dan
Adrian at Harper/Huntington, 2 p.m. FRESH START Jordan Valley at Monument/ The birth of1A Special District Dayville, 2 p.m. 1 begins this fall with teams from Wallowa at Echo, 7 p.m. three different 2013 leagues, as 1A Powder Valley at Joseph, 7 p.m. consolidated from six leagues into Pine Eagle at Elgin, 7 p.m. four. Adrian, Crane, Monument/ Thursday, Oct. 2 Dayville, Jordan Valley and Harper/ Monument/Dayville at Harper/ Huntington from Special District 6 combined with Powder Valley, Huntington, 2 p.m. Joseph, Wallowa and Pine Eagle Friday, Oct. 3 of Special District 4, along with Crane at Jordan Valley, 1 p.m. Special District 3's Echo, to form Pine Eagle atWallowa, 2 p.m. the new conference. Technically, Adrian at Prairie City, 7 p.m. Prairie City and Burnt River are Echo at Powder Valley, 7 p.m. listed on the OSAA website as Friday, Oct. 10 the11th and12th members, but Prairie City at Jordan Valley, noon both schools will be fielding junior Harper/Huntington at Crane,1 p.m. varsity teams this year. Powder Valley at Pine Eagle, With the creation, a new playoff 2 p.m. system was introduced as well. The Monument/Dayville at Adrian, league is split into two divisions, 7 p.m. with Powder Valley, Echo, Joseph, Jarrad Felgeahauer/ArgusObserver Echo at Joseph,7 p.m. Wallowa and Pine Eagle grouped : Adrian's Bryson Shira lunges out to make a fancy one-handed Friday, Oct. 17 in the North, and the remaining : :catch during a practice last season. The Antelopes are a team Crane at Monument/Dayville, five teams in the South. : :expected to be in the hunt for the 1A state title. 1 p.m. The winner of those two : Echo at Crane, 2 p.m. Crane at Sherman,3 p.m. Prairie City at Harper/Huntington, divisions at the end of the regular : JordanValleyat Pine Eagle,2 p.m. Wilder, Idaho, at Jordan Valley, 1 p.m. season will face off in the district. : 'Adrian vs. Lummi, Wash., Dufur 3:30 p.m. Joseph at Pine Eagle,2 p.m . That contest will be mainly :: Classic,4p.m. Wallowa at CondorWVheeler,6 p.m. Powder Valley at Wallowa, 2 p.m. for seeding purposes in the Condon/Wheeler at Joseph, 6: 30 p. m lone at Echo,7 p.m. Jordan Valley at Adrian, 7 p.m. postseason, as both teams will Wallowa at lone, 7 p.m. Monument/Dayville atArlington,7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 head to state. The No. 2 team of Saturday, Sept. 6 Council, Idaho, at PowderValley,7 p.m. Harper/Huntington at Jordan one division will face off against : :Powder Valley vs. Sherman, Dufur Saturday, Sept. 20 Valley, 2 p.m. the No. 3 squad of the other for Classic, 7:30 p.m. Joseph vs. Prairie City at Baker, 11 a.m. Joseph at the remaining two playoff bids. Wallowa, 2 p.m . Friday, Sept. 12 Crane vs. Wallowa, at Baker, 3 p.m. Crane at Adrian, 6 p.m. WEEK-BYWEEK SCHEDULE Elgin at Harper/Huntington, 2 p.m. Adrian at PowderValley, Baker,5 p.m. :' PineEagleatEcho,7 p.m . : 'Prairie City at Pine Eagle, 2 p.m. AllTimes Pacific Friday, Sept. 26 Monument/Dayville at Prairie City, Friday, Sept. 5 : Adrianvs. Dufur, at Imbler,3 p.m. Prairie City at Crane,1 p.m. 7 p.m. ':
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Townsend said."Things are going to bedifferent and we'llsee some new teams. It's going to be fun in with the new playoff system." Joseph should improve off its 2-6 campaign, but will miss their star quarterback, Wyatt Warnock. Sophomore Cayden DeLury steps up as signal-caller, after rushing and receiving his way to just under 700 yards and three scores a year ago. Harper losesjusttwo seniors off a 2-5 team. Junior quarterback
Dakota Allaire leads a strong core coming back, with defensive end/ running back Nathan Joyce, senior tight end/linebacker Chad Anderson and two-way linemen Junior DeSantiagoand Greg Chandler. aWe got experience and we'll be prettystrong,so I'm looking to get to the playoffs," Harper head coach Lee Tiller said. Echo will try to turn around their fortunescoming offa 1-8 season. The good news is that nine kids with playing time under their belt
are back, including senior quarterback Danny Tappo, tight end/cornerback Dustin Goldie and junior guard/linebacker Hayden Sather. Wallowa is breaking in a new coach with Matt Brockamp, as he attemptstorevitalizethe program. The Cougars also get an infusion on the field in Micah Fuller, a senior transfer fiom La Grande who will play fullback and middle linebacker, and should be one of the top players in the conference. Wallowa also has two speedyrunning backs in Chan-
dler Burns and Travis Haga. Jordan Valley is another school with a new coach, but this one is a familiar face. Bryce Kershner graduated in 2010 from the Mustangs, and takes over a team that didn't field a varsity team last year. Running back Braden Fillm ore, wide receiver/defensive back Lee Stanfordand running back/ defensive back Nick Eiguren are seniors Kershner is depending on. j benham@lagrandeobservercom
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
BE COOL
FOR BACK TO
SCHOOI
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 23C
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KICKOFF 2014
24C — THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"We start out with tough teams, but by the time we get to
league play, it will help a lot." Seth Dixon, PowderValley sophomore By Josh Benham VVesCom News Service
P+
ith big losses across the board, Powder Valley now turns to a sophomore to shoulder the load. Last season, the Badgers had seniorweapons at allthe offensive skill positions, including quarterback Chace Dixon and running back Quin Stephens, as well as towering wide receivers Brock Jones and Tyler Robinson. That quartet helped lead Powder Valley to a 7-3 record and berth in the playoffs, where it ultimately fell 38-34 to Triad in the first round. ''We lost six seniors, and all six started one way or the other," head coach Dan Townsend said.'We are replacing a handful of kids that playedalotoffootball,sowehave our hands full. It's definitely a changing of the guards. We'll just have to see who will pan out." This fall the team pins its offense around Seth Dixon. He will hope to avoid the dreaded sophomore slump following a freshman outing in which the 5-foot-10
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Jash BenhamNVescom News Sennce
Powder Valley's Seth Dixon throws a ball during fall practice. Dixon returns for his sophomore season after helping the Badgers to a 7-3 record last season and an apperance in the 1A state playoffs. Powder Valley fell to Triad 38-34 in the first round. phenom rushed for 1,003 yards and had 522 receiving yards, with 13 touchdowns. "Seth is kind of a freak," Townsend said."He has a way of playing football that not a lot of people have. It's that natural ability. He's smart too. He understands
football, and he sees the field well." That football IQ will aid Dixon in transitioning to quarterback, as he is the most likely player to emerge from the initial practices as the signal-caller. Lee McElligott and three-year offensive line starter Eddy Bedolla are the lone
2014 SCHEDULE Date Sept. 6
Opponent vs. Sherman, at Dufur Classic Sept. 12 Council, Idaho Sept. 20 vs. Adrian, at Baker Sept. 26 at Joseph Oct. 3 Echo Oct. 10 at Pine Eagle Oct. 17 at Wallowa Oct. 24 Bye All TimesPacific
seniors on the roster. ''With losing all those seniors, m e and Eddydefi nitely haveto step up," McElligott said.'We've got a big freshman and sophomore class, so we need to show the younger kids what to do." Townsend said this is most experienced offensive line he's had in six years as head coach, and McElligott's role on both offensive and defensive lines provides muchneeded direction. The senior has high hopes for the line this year. "I think we'll have a better line this year than last year," McElligot sald. While last season's size may be missing, McElligot said this year's versionisfastatnearly every position. "Our speed is our strength, and we're a smart team, too," he said. ''We're not just out there being meatheads and running around." Powder Valley made the passing game a prominent aspect in their offense last season. Even with the lossesofthe 6-foot-3 Jones and 6-foot-4 Robinson, opponents should expect the same aerial
attack from the Badgers, centered on junior receiver Caleb Day. While Townsend acknowledged there will be growing pains associated with breaking in new players, thisseason isplayoffs-or-bust for Powder Valley. ''We just got done doing our team goals, and that's one of them,"Townsend said.'We've been there the last two years, and we fully intend on going back to the state playoffs." Powder Valley must navigate through the new 1A Special District 1, and Townsend pointed to Pine Eagle and Joseph as difficult tests this year. The team will need to grow up fast if they want a prime spotin the league playoffs, with games against Sherman County, Adrian and Council, Idaho, to open the season. ''We start out with tough teams, but by the time we get to league play, it will help a lot," Dixon said. ''We'll still have to work, but it will help us in the long run as far as rankings go." j benham@lagrandeobservercom
BADGERS AT A GlANCE Time
7:30 p.m. 7 p.m. 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m. 2 p.m.
2013 RESULTS (7-3) Date Opponent Sept. 6 St. Paul Sept.13 Echo Sept. 20 Notus, Idaho Sept. 27 Imbler Oct. 4 Pine Eagle Oct.11 Cove Oct. 18 Wallowa Oct. 25 Joseph Nov. 1 Condon/Wheeler Nov. 9 Triad
A
Result L, 48-54 W, 60-14 W,56-36 L, 18-56 W,74-24
W,55-18 W,56-20 W,82-36 W,51-0 L, 34-38
SENDSTORYIDEAS TOjbenham@lagrdndeobservercom
Coach Dan Townsend (sixth year, 19-27 overall)
2013 record 7-3 overall, 4-1 Special District 4, lost to Triad 38-34 in first round of playoffs
2014 Conference
Townsend
Dixon
the quarterback spot, should he win out, and Townsend is excited about Day this year at the wide receiver position. The offensive line : 'has quick, lean players that won't wow you : :with size. But that agility should prove tough : :to handle on traps and pull-blocks, and all McEll i g ot : 'the linemen have experience.
1A Special District 1 Key returnees North Division South Division : '• Seth Dixon, RB, (1,003 rushing yards, 522 • Pine Eagle • Adrian : :receiving yards, 13 TD) •Joseph • Crane : :• Sean Stanford, RB, (250 rushing yards, 3 • Powder Valley • Harper/Huntington : 'TD) • Echo • Jordan Valley : '• Lee McElligott, OUDL • Wallowa • Monument/Dayville : :• Eddy Bedolla, OUDL
Returning starters
Total: 9 Offense: 5 Defense: 4
Key losses • Chace Dixon, QB • Quin Stephens, RB • Tyler Robinson, WR • Brock Jones, WR
Key newcomers . :Cade Browne, DB : :Korey Grende, RB : :Caleb Day,WR
Keys to success The team is built around speed. Seth Dixon should provide a great deal of athleticism at
Questionmarks When every skill position starter is gone from a team, the questions start and end there. Powder Valley must replace a quarterback, running back and two giant wide receivers. While Seth Dixon did play a lot last year and led the team in touchdowns, he can't do it all alone. A couple of players will have to step up and become impact players at the skill positions, or else teams will just have to focus on Dixon and make other players beat them.
Toughest game Sept. 20, vs. Adrian, at Baker, 5 p.m.
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD —25C
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KICKOFF 2014
26C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"Last year, we were pretty much a run-focusedteam, as that was Wyatt's strength. Butwhen you're one-dimensi onaland can'tpassvery much,teamscan stackthe box. This year, we've got weapons in multiple positions." 3osh Harman,Josephheadcoach By Josh Benham VVescom News Service
osephfootballwa sata low pointjusta couple ofseasons ago. Their 2012 record was 0-6, with a 30-point defeat to Pine Eaglebeing theclosestgame. Yet two years later, second-year head coach Josh Harman has the program on the rise. The Eagles are coming off a 2-6 2013 campaign. However, the first two games with Condon/ Wheeler and Yoncalla had to be forfei ted due to issuesregarding a foreign exchange student. So after clearing that up, the team won conference games over Wallowa and Pine Eagle to finish 2-3 in 1A Special District 4. 'Two years ago we were having a bad, down year," Harman said. ''Afier last year, I'm really excited. W e've gota good,young nucleus of players, so I'm hoping to get three or four wins and continue the upward trend." A young quarterback will be at the forefront of the movement. SophomoreCayden DeLury will
Josh BenhamNVescom News Sennce
Running backTyler Johnson carries the ball during a fall practice at Joseph High School. Johnson transfered from Enterprise and is expected to be a contributor on the offensive side of the ball. start out at signal-caller after Wyatt Warnock, who passed for over 400 yards and rushed for another 620, graduated. DeLury is coming off a freshman year in which he ran for 458 yards and caught 11 passes for 214 yards.
"Wyatt was really tough, and just from watching him I learned quite a bit," DeLury said."I had one game in North Powder where I played a little quarterback after he went out, so it was good just to get some experience."
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Time Sept. 5 Condon/Wheeler 6:30 p.m. Sept. 12 Bye Sept. 20 vs. Prairie City, at Baker 11 a.m. Sept. 26 Powder Valley 7 p.m. Oct. 3 Bye Oct. 10 Echo 7 p.m. Oct. 17 at Pine Eagle 2 p.m. Oct. 24 at Wallowa 2 p.m. AII TimesPacific
Already a skilled rusher, DeLury brings a dual-threat as quarterback. "I"m pretty new at quarterback," he said."My throws are getting better, but I'm still going to rely a lot on running. That's just what I'm good at." Beyond Warnock's play, the Eagles will need to fill his leadership void. With only three seniors, those roles will be thrusted upon Tyler Johnson, Noah DeLury and Dustin Johnson. Tyler Johnson transferred from Enterprise, and his role at running back will be vital with DeLury being the lone experienced skill position player. "Football is really important to me," Johnson said."I would like to play my heart out this year and do the best I can, and help not only myself, but others on the team. I just hope to have fun." Harman wants players like junior center Raymond Seal and sophomore guard Kai Oliver to smooth Cayden DeLury's transition to starting quarterback,
Date Sept. 6 Sept. 14 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25
Opponent Condon/Wheeler Yoncalla Elgin Wallowa Cove Imbler Pine Eagle Powder Valley
Result L, forfeit L, forfeit L, 0-42 W,54-26 L, 0-46 L, 6-56 W,56-34 L, 36-82
0~ FOLLOWJOSHBENHAMONTWITTER QlgoBenham
jbenham@laI,randeobservercom
EAGLES AT A GlANCE Coach
Keys to success
Josh Harman (second year, 2-6 overall)
2013 record 2-6 overall, 2-3 1A Special District 4, did not make playoffs H arman
2014 Conference
John s o n
DeLur y
: :• Sam Beckman, RB (151 yards rushing) 1A Special District 1 North Division South Division • Eric Lara, RB (690 yards, 6 TDs) • Pine Eagle • Adrian • Joseph • Crane Key returnees • Powder Valley • Harper/Huntington • Cayden DeLury, QB (672 total yards, 3TDs) : '~Aaron Borgerding,WR • Echo • Jordan Valley • Wallowa • Monument/Dayville : :• Noah DeLury, WR : :• Raymond Seal, OL
: 'The offensive line has Seal returning, with : :some promising freshman in Warnock and : :Ramirez. With a solid line, the running game : 'should be solid with the transfer Johnson, : 'and Cayden DeLury is a mobile quarterback : 'that will make plays with his legs as well as : 'throughthe air.
:
'
2013 RESULTS (2-6)
making it easier to get the ball to promisingsophomore receiver Aaron Borgerding. "Last year, we were pretty much a run-focused team, as that was Wyatt's strength," Harman said. "But when you're one-dimensional and can't pass very much, teams can stack the box. This year, we've got weapons in multiple positions." Stacking the box is Joseph's calling card defensively. Harman likes to run a hybrid between a 3-3-2 and 3-3-1-1 centering on the middle of the offense. With only 11 players on the roster, most of the team will have to play both ways, which could pose an issue as the season wears on. "If we suffered any injuries, our depth could hurt us," Harman said. Barring any unforeseen losses, Harman sees a 1A Special District 1conferencethat isup forgrabs. "Powder Valley is a favorite, but with Cove and Imbler moving to 2A, I think our league is wide open," he said.
Returning starters
Total: 4 Offense: 2 Defense: 2
Key newcomers
~Tyler Johnson, RB : :• Rylie Warnock, OL Key losses • Wyatt Warnock, QB (424 passing yards, 620 : :• Miguel Ramirez, OL yards rushing, 10 totalTDs) • John Stein, OUDL :
Questionmarks : Harman said the team has natural fits, but : depth could become a problem if the team : experiences injuries early in the year. The team has lost a couple of would-be seniors : 'in the days leading up to fall camp, and that has really hurt Harman and the team . :with missing experience. The schedule , :doesn't offer much room for error with only : sixgames. On the plusside,Joseph gets . :league heavyweight Powder Valley at home.
Toughest game Sept. 26, vs. Powder Valley
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
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THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD —27C
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KICKOFF 2014
28C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
" ... I will take the camaraderie of this group anyday. Wehave a vert good group of young men that have the potential of growing up in a hurry if they choose to." Erik3ohnson,Ontari o head coach
By Eric Avissar
4A GREATER OREGON LEAGUE AT A GlANCE
VVescom News Service
hile each of the four Greater Oregon League teams will play eight games during the regular season, only three games count. As a result, the margin of error will be once again be extremely thin for the likes of Baker, La Grande, Ontario and Mac-Hi. As the reigning GOL champions, Ontario will have to replace the bulk of its talent on both sides of the ball, bringing back only two returning starters on both offense and defense. Despite waiting until the third game of the season to become the starting running back, Ben Johnson finished last season as a first-team all-GOL selection. The senior returns for one last go with the Tigers after running for 850 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns last season, while also catching a pair of scores. Head coach Erik Johnson believes that while his team is lacking in experience, it is not short of desire. "This team is inexperienced and untested, but I will take the camaraderie of this group any day," Johnson said.«We have a verygood group ofyoung men that have the potential to grow up in a hurry if they choose to." Despite finishing 2013 with a losing record, GOL runner-up Baker reached the 4A playoffs, losing 3714 to Cascade in the firstround. Baker will enter the 2014 season with the most experienced team in the GOL, returning nine starters on offense and six on defense. After being named a first-team all-GOL selection last fall, quarterback Thomas Hamiltonopted totransferto Oregon City. Senior Keaton Bachman will take the reigns of the quarterback position. Bachman will have two
W
2013 STANDINGS GOL AII PF PA Ontario 3 - 0 4-5 288 207 Baker 2-1 4 - 6 207 281 La Grande 1-2 2-6 118 307 Mac-Hi 0 - 3 2 - 6 107 231 WEEKBYWEEK SCHEDULE AIITimes Pacific Friday, Sept. 5 Ridgeview at Baker, 7 p.m. Nyssa at La Grande,7 p.m. Waitsburg/Prescott, Wash., at M cLoughlin, 7 p.m. Ontario at Fruitland, Idaho,6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 12 Baker at Payette, Idaho, 6
p.m. Pendleton at La Grande,7
p.m. Enterprise at McLoughlin,7 p.m. Ontario at Weiser, 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 Fruitland, Idaho, at Baker,7
li
p.m.
«g
Weiser, Idaho, at La Grande,7
p.m. Jordan SchultarArgusObserver
Ontario's Mike Hussey breaks free from a group of Burns defenders for a first down in Ontario last season. As the reigning Greater Oregon League champions, Ontario will have to replace the bulk of its talent on both sides of the ball, bringing back only two returning starters on both offense and defense. returning all-GOL selections to protect him with first-teamer Kalani Heiser and second-team pick Bridger Cook. For the fourth time in five seasons, the La Grande Tigers will start the season with a new coach. With the 27-year-old Chad Smith at the helm, the Tigers will run a spreadoffense similarto the one Kenny Mace ran last season. Brandon Dall returns as the team's starting quarterback, and will be looking to throw to brothers Isaiah and Alec Cranford along with Andrew Hively after losing pass catchers Brandon Cederholm
and Tyson Wicklander to graduation. While Smith is still figurirg out the makeup of the backfield, Ray Jimenez will be an elusive breakaway threat as the team's speed back, while senior Chase Huflman has established himself as the team's power back while also playing middle linebacker. The Tigers were abletoavoid a winless GOL campaign after a thrilling 19-18 homecoming win over McLoughlin in the season finale. As the last place finisher in the GOL last season, McLoughlin faces an uphill battle to reach the
playoffs for the first time since 1996. Head coach Tim Hutchison enters his third season in charge with a 6-10 record thus far. Senior Joey Barnheart will replacefour-year starterChase Copenhaver at quarterback. Barnheart played wide receiver last season. Hutchison considers another one of his key players to be senior running back Jeff Jones, who was named a first team allGOL selection his sophomore year before tearing his ACL in his first game as a junior. eavissarOlagrandeobservercom
Vale at McLoughlin, 7 p.m. Pendleton at Ontario, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26 Baker atVale,6 p.m. La GrandeatMadison,7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27 Pleasant Hill at Ontario,1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3 M cLoughlin atNyssa,6 p.m. Baker at Pendleton,7 p.m. La Grande at DeSales, Wash., 7 p.m. Vale at Ontario, 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 Baker at La Grande,7 p.m. McLoughlin at Ontario, 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17 La Grande at Ontario, 6 p.m. McLoughlin at Baker, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 La Grande at McLoughlin,7 p.m. Ontario at Baker, 7 p.m.
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30C â&#x20AC;&#x201D;THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"It took so long to establish our offensive anddefensive philosophies. I'm not sure if we ever got to the level of progresslast season to the point we were at in Day 3 of this preseason" Terry Graham, Burns headcoach By Eric Avissar
2A WAPITILEAGUE AT A GULNCE
VVescom News Service
ith two reigning state champions and a team moving down from the
OSAA Class 3A level, the newly-formed 2A Wapiti League figures to be one of the most competitive and wide open leagues in Oregon. Grant Union joins the league coming off a 12-7 win over Regis in last year's 2A state title game. Head coach Jason Miller now faces the unenviable task of replacing all 11 starters on both sidesoftheballaftergraduating 17 seniors. However, the cupboard is not completely bare for Miller, as he will essentially promote a junior varsity squad that went undefeatedlastseason. "I feel our league is wide open, and success will be determined by our discipline, work ethic and leadership," Miller said. Miller said that junior Garrett McConnell will get plenty of work running and catching the ball at running back, while using several players to fulfill responsibilities at halfback and fullback. Miller has yet to name a starting quarterback for the season opener. Freshman Wade Reimers is competing with junior Brady Burch. The other state champion faces perhaps an even more di5cult task, as Imbler will transition from playing 8-man football at the 1A level to duking it out in the trenches with only 26 total players in 11-man football. While the Panthers will have to replace OSAA 1A all-star quarterback Kyle Johnson, standout running back Joe Gri5n is back for his senior season. The quick and elusive Gri5n will play a major role in defining how the Panthers handle the transition after scoring nine touchdowns in last year's state championship win over Lowell. "Joe iGri5nl has a great knack forseeing holes, "Im bler head
NEWTEAMS FACE NEW CHALLENGES IN REFORMED WAPITI LEAGUE There are three schools in the Wapiti League that played in thesame league lastseason,as Enterprise, Union and Grant Union all played in the Blue Mountain Conference. Burns made the drop from 3A to 2A due to decreased enrollment, and enters theWapiti League after finishing third out of four teams in the Eastern Oregon League. On the flip side, Imbler jumps up a level after itwon the1A state championship, going undefeated through five games in Special District 4, including a 57-14 win over Cove, a program that combined to form the Union/Cove co-op. WEEK-BYWEEK SCHEDULE AllTimes Pacific Friday, Sept. 6 Burns at Sisters, 7 p.m. Enterprise at Stanfield, 7 p.m. Grant Union at Weston-McEwen' Griswold, 7 p.m. Union/Cove at Umatilla, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11 Imbler at Weston-McEwen' Griswold, 7 p.m.
coach Lee Lowe said."He's physicalfor a sm allerback and has excellent speed,greatmoves and catches the ball as well as anyone. He's a real receiving and running threat." Meanwhile, the prohibitive favorite to win the Wapiti is the team dropping from 3A to 2A in Burns. Hilanders' head coach Terry Graham, who coached Burns from 1989-2003,returned last season for his second stint as head coach of the Hilanders. Though Burns finished the season with a 4-6 record in the Eastern Oregon League, Graham has reason to be confident. "It took so long to establish our
Friday, Sept. 12 Lakeview at Burns, 7 p.m. Enterprise at Mac-Hi,7 p.m. Grant Union at Heppner, 7 p.m. Riverside at Union/Cove, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 Burns at Cascade Christian, 7 p.m. Heppner at Enterprise, 7 p.m. Stanfield at Grant Union,7 p.m. Pilot Rock at Union/Cove, 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 Imbler vs. Toledo, at Hermison, 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26 Burns at La Pine,7 p.m. Grant Union at Pilot Rock, 7 p.m. Irrigon at Union/Cove, 7 p.m. Stanfield at Imbler, 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3 Imbler at Burns, 6 p.m. Grant Union at Enterprise, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10 Burns at Grant Union, 7 p.m. Imbler at Union/Cove,7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17 Enterprise at Burns, 6 p.m. Union'Cove at Grant Union, 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 Enterprise at Imbler, 2 p.m. Burns at Union/Cove, 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31 Nyssa at Burns, 7 p.m. Union'Cove at Enterprise, 7 p.m. Grant Union at Imbler, 2 p.m.
offensiveand defensive philosophies," Graham said."I'm not sureifwe evergotto thelevelof progresslastseason to the point we're at now in day three of this preseason." Senior quarterback Austin Feist will lead the Burns offense. As a dual-threat quarterback, Feist threw for 607 passing yards and four touchdowns and ran for 724 yards and 10 touchdowns despite missing three games with a concussion. AfterUnion and Cove fi nished lastseason with losingrecords playing 11-man and 8-man football, respectively, the two schools havejoined forcestocreate a co-op
Angel Carpenter/Blue Mountain Eagle
Grant Union's Garrett McConnell grabs a pass from Wade Reimers during fall practice earlier this month in John Day. The Prospectors are coming off a 12-7 win over Regis in last year's 2A state title game. Unfortunately for head coach Jason Miller, he will have to replace all 11 starters on both sides of the ball after graduating 17 seniors.
program. Jon Reynolds will serve as head coach after coaching the Union program last season, where he will run the triple option offense. Junior Aaron Clark will move from quarterback to running back following the arrival of Cove's Derek Murchison. Clark said he, Jordan Alexander and Tayton Duby-Gerlach will create a rushing attack that opponents will struggle to scheme against. "They're never going to see us coming," Clark said.eWe have so many options, opponents won't know where we're going with the ball â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that's why they call it the option."
Enterprise joins the Wapiti comingoffa 3-6record and a 2-6 ma rk in the Blue Mountain Conference. Head coach Mike Rowley will enter his fourth season in charge after missing out on the postseason for the first time in his career last year. The Outlaws are still trying to figure out who will step in as the starting quarterback. Juniors Justin Exon and McCadden are currently in competition, with the latter having already proving himself as a reliable option in the backfield after running for 451 yards on 71 carries last season. eavissarOtagrandeobservercom
KICKOFF 2014
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
THE OBSERVER a BAKER CITY HERALD — 31C
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KICKOFF 2014
32C —THE OBSERVER s BAKER CITY HERALD
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2014
"I'm excited about the offense. We'll have our challenges, we alwaysdo, but at the sametime, I think that we'll have our opportunities to be better than last year." Tim Camp,Eastern Oregon headcoach
By Josh Benham VVesCom News Service
trio ofheadhunting linebackers figure to wreak havoc on Eastern Oregon opponents all season long. Ryan Watson, Matt Gayman and Gary Posten anchor a defense that looks to rebound from a disappointing 2013 campaign. The Mountaineers ranked second-tolast in the Frontier Conference in pointsallowed and totalyardage allowed per game. Still, the linebacking corp representsthe brightestspotsfor this fall. Posten, a redshirt junior from Emmett, Idaho, led Eastern with 119 tackles last season, placing him second overall in the conference. The Yakima, Wash., native Watson, a senior, was second in the conference with five intercepti ons.Watson's 109 tackles were third in the conference and second on the team, earning him first team all-conference honors.
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Wescom News Service photo
Eastern Oregon wide receiver Jace Billingsley is coming off a single-season Eastern record of 69 receptions in 2013. Gayman, a redshirt senior from Auburn, Wash., ranked fourth on the Mounties with 66 tackles. cWe'vegot a lotofexperience at linebacker, and I think we've got some reall y good leaders there, too," Posten said."It should carry our defense in that aspect." Besides that trio,head coach
Tim Camp is anticipating a big year from players on the defensive line, which would allow the linebackers even more freedom. Senior Parker Lawson returns at defensive tackle,asdoesKyle Lanoue. The redshirt sophomore had a team-high four sacks and was named a first team all-confer-
2014 SCHEDULE Date Opponent Aug. 23 Menlo Aug. 30 Bye Sept. 6 Bye Sept. 13 Southern Oregon Sept. 20 at Montana Tech Sept. 27 at Rocky Mountain Oct. 4 College of Idaho Oct. 11 Carroll College Oct. 18 at Montana Western Oct. 25 MSU-Northern Nov. 1 Montana Tech Nov. 8 at College of Idaho Nov. 15 at Southern Oregon AIITimesPacific
Opponent Portland State Montana Tech MSU-Northern Southern Oregon Carroll College Montana Westem Bye Rocky Mountain Montana Tech Dickinson State Southem Oregon Montana Westem
offa single-season Eastern record of 69receptions,and figuresto be a leader in and out of the huddle. "I'm one of the older guys in the offense now," Billingsley said."I'm not a big talker. I try to come out here and give 100 percent every single practice and every play, and hopefully guys will see that." Junior kicker Marc David will be entering his third straight year as thestartingkicker.David's presence will be vital in tight games.Bartlow alsohas a leader on his offensive line. Senior Garek Stuart is back following his second team all-conference selection, and from his center position, should be a stabilizing force in the middle of the line. The Mounties averaged 29points pergame in 2013 — fourth in the Frontier — but Camp wants to see his offense keep climbing up the conference leaderboard. j benham@lagrandeobservercom
MOUNTAINEERS AT A GLANCE Time W,45-27
1 p.m. noon noon 6 p.m. 1 p.m. noon 1 p.m. noon 11 a.m. noon
2013 RESULTS (6-5) Date Aug. 29 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2 Nov. 9 Nov. 16
ence selection. "Another lineman, (senior) Jordan Martinez, there's not a kid stronger in the country than that kid," Camp said.'We've got some guys that haveplayedalotoffootball.Now we just have to get them dialed in on the same page, and I think some good things will happen." In the secondary, Adam Bese returns at safety, but Eastern must find a replacement for cornerback Karsen Garcia, a 2013 first-team all-conference selection. cWe lostprobably one ofthebest corners that's ever played here in Karsen," Camp said."John Payne's going to have to step up and play. We've got his brother here, Jordan, and he's going to have to step up and play as well." Offensively, newly minted starting quarterback Zach Bartlow has the luxury ofhaving first team all-conference wide receiverJace Billingsley on his side. The junior from Winnemucca, Nev., is coming
Result L, 17-57 L, 7-23 L, 27-45 L, 20-73 W,35-31 W,20-0 L, 13-45 W,45-30 W, 57-3 W,38-37 W,42-20
Coach
is his two top receivers, Jace Billingsley and : :Justin Hernandez. Billingsley is coming off 'a season inwhichheearned second-team : 2013 record : 'NAIAAII-American honors, and his numbers 6-5 overall, 6-4 Frontier Conference, did not : :should improve even after a stellar campaign. make playoffs While McGinnis-Parker will be missed, the C ar p Wat son Bartlo w : :1-2 combo of A.J. Prom and Esekielu will be Frontier Conference Key returnees effective in replacing Eastern's record-setter. • MSU-Northern • Montana Western , :•Jace Billingsley, WR (69 receptions, 820 yards, : 'The trio of linebackers — Posten, Watson • Southern Oregon • Rocky Mountain . :4TDs) : 'and Matt Gayman — is one of the best units • Carroll College • Montana Tech • Gary Posten, LB (119 tackles, 2 INTs) : 'inthe NAIA. • College of Idaho • Eastern Oregon , :• Ryan Watson, LB (109 tackles, 5 INTs, 2 sacks) . :eTJ.Esekielu, RB (240 yards, 8TDs) Questionmarks Returning starters : 'While the linebacking corp is as good as it Key newcomers Total: 15 : 'gets, the Mountaineer secondary will be : '• MickWilson, TE Offense: 7 : :tested early and often. The loss of Garcia at : :eAndre Brembry, OL Defense: 8 : :cornerback is huge, and a couple of players, Keys to success : 'Eastern' offensive attack should be one of : 'like redshirt sophomore John Payne, must Key losses : 'step up, especially when the team faces • Chris McGinnis-Parker, RB (1,361yards, 11TDs) : 'the top units, not only in the Frontier, but : :pass-happy offenses. • Karsen Garcia, DB (1 INT, 6 PBUs, 28 tackles) : 'possibly in NAIA. Zach Bartlow appears • Emory Jones, OL : :ready to lead as the quarterback, and he has Toughest game . :'a plethora of weapons. First and foremost • Nick Magrone, DB, (1 INT, 28 tackles) Oct. 11, vs. No. 2-ranked Carroll College Tim Camp (seventh year, 36-30 overall)
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"We're playing in one of the toughestconferencesat this level. Every team canbeatanotherteam on any week,so we' vegotto focuson every team. " 3ace Billingsley,Eastern Oregonwide receiver By Josh Benham
FRONTIER CONFERENCE AT A GULNCE
VVescom News Service
he return of a slew of Frontier Conference all-league players keeps Carroll College as theclassofthe conference. Following a 2013 season in which the Fighting Saints went 12-2 overall, with a 9-1 conference record, the reigning champions appear loaded again. Last year's Frontier defensive player of the year, linebacker Sean Blomquist, leads four players on that side of the ball that earned all-conference honors. Blomquist had the most tackles i124l and tackles for loss i19l in the Frontier, and his seven sacks ranked fifth. Seniors Sean Condon and Bryan Graupman play on thedefensive line, who were second i8l and fourth i7.5l in sacks in the league, respectively. Junior free safety James Dowgin led the conference with seveninterceptions. The Frontier's top returning tailback, senior Dustin Rinker, givesCarrolloffensivefi repower, after compiling 1,960 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2013. The Saints also return offensive lineman Alex Kastens, punter Rhys Felton, and kick and punt returners Anthony Clarke and Jared Mayernik, all Frontier conference first-teamers. Rocky Mountain iMont.l finished tiedatsecond lastyearbehind quarterback Bryce Baker, who is back after making first-team all-conference in his junior season. Bakercompleted 70 percent of his passes, tops in the Frontier for 2013, and passed for 3,893 yards and 31 touchdowns, both second in conference. Histop targetisjunior Andre McCullouch, who Baker foundfor1,328yards,78receptions and 13scoreslastyear.Firstteam all-conference offensive lineman Ryan Armstrong anchors the line. Tied with the Bears in second last year was Southern Oregon, which has the other first-team quarterback back in the Frontier. Senior Austin Dodge threw for
Mountain, noon : Southern Oregon at Carroll College, noon : 'Eastern Oregon at Montana : :Western, noon : :Montana Tech at MSU-Northern, : noon Saturday, Oct. 25 : 'Montana Western at Rocky Mountain, noon : 'Southern Oregon at College of : :Idaho, noon ' ,:Carroll College at Montana Tech, : :noon WEEK-BYWEEK SCHEDULE MSU-Northern at Eastern Oregon, AllTimes Pacific 1 p.m. Saturday,Aug. 23 Saturday, November 1 Eastern Oregon 45, Menlo 27 : 'College of Idaho at Montana Montana Western, 38, : :Western,11 a.m. Montana Tech 6 Frontier Conference photo : 'Carroll College at MSU-Northern, Saturday,August 30 Carroll's Sean Blomquist scores a touchdown during the Saints' 11 a.m. Rocky Mountain at Dickinson NAIA playoff win over Georgetown last season. Blomquist is the : Montana Tech at Eastern Oregon, State, noon reigning conference defensive player of the year. : :noon Southern Oregon at Menlo : Rocky Mountain at Southern College, 1 p.m. MSU-Northern at MontanaTech,5 p.m. : 'Southern Oregon at Eastern : :Northern, noon : Oregon,1 p.m. Saturday, November 8 Montana Western at Eastern : Oregon,1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 : Rocky Mountain at Carroll College, W ashington, 6:05 p.m. : 'MontanaWestern at Carroll Saturday, Sept. 20 Saturday, Sept. 6 , :Carroll College at Rocky Mountain, College, noon 11 a.m. Dickinson State at MSU-Northern, : :noon : 'College of Idaho at Eastern : Eastern Oregon at College of noon Eastern Oregon at MontanaTech, : :Oregon,6p.m. Idaho, 11 a.m. Rocky Mountain at Montana : :MontanaWestern at MSU: :noon Saturday, Oct. 11 Western, noon College of Idaho at Southern RockyMountainatM ontanaTech, Northern, 11 a.m. College of Idaho at Pacific, 1 p.m. : :Oregon,1 p.m. : :noon : 'Southern Oregon at MontanaTech, ' ,:MSU-Northern at College of Idaho, 11 a.m. Carroll College at Southern ' ,MSU-Northern at Montana Oregon, 1 p.m. : :noon : :Western,1 p.m. Saturday, November 15 Saturday, Sept. 13 Saturday, Sept.27 Carroll College at Eastern Oregon, : :MSU-Northern at Rocky Mountain, Rocky Mountain at MSU-Northern, : 'Eastern Oregon at Rocky 1 p.m. 11 a.m. noon ' ,:Mountain, noon : 'Montana Western at Southern : 'College of Idaho at Carroll College, Montana Western at College of : :Montana Tech at College of Idaho, : :Oregon,1 p.m. 11 a.m. Idaho, noon : :noon Saturday, Oct. 18 : 'Eastern Oregon at Southern MontanaTech at Carroll College, noon: Southern Oregon at MSU: College of Idaho at Rocky : :Oregon, noon 2013 STANDINGS Frontier All Conference Games Carroll College 9-1 12-2 Rocky Mountain 7- 3 8-4 Southern Oregon 7- 3 7-4 Eastern Oregon 6- 4 6-5 M ontana Western 4-6 4 -6 MSU-Northern 4-6 4-6 Montana Tech 3-7 3-7 Dickinson State. 0-1 0 1-1 0
4,383 yards with 47 touchdowns, including 559 yards and 8 touchdowns in a win over Montana Tech. Wide receivers Ryan Retzlaff, a fi rst-teamer, and Dylan Young both eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark in yards, with Retzlaff's 1,191 and Young's 1,123 yards ranking second and third, respectively, in the Fronti er.M attRetzlaffscored a league-high 19 touchdowns while finishing fifth in receiving yards with 856, and first-team offensive lineman Drew Gibson is back for his senior season.
Eastern Oregon finished fourth a season ago, and brings back threeplayersreceived afirst-team nod. Junior wide receiver Jace Billingsley, who also made the second team at kick returner, was fifth in the Frontier with 69 receptionsand totaled 820 yards. cWe'vegotbiggoals,butin order forus to reach thosegoals,this team's really going to have to focus one game at a time," Billingsley said.cWe're playing in one of the toughestconferences atthislevel. Every team can beat another
team on any week, so we've got to focus on every team." Senior linebacker Ryan Watson was fourthin the Frontier with 109 tackles, and junior defensive lineman Kyle Lanoue tied for 10th with four sacks, with both players fimshingin the top 20in tackles for loss. Center Garek Stuart made the second team for the Mountaineers in 2013, but it's the players that have to fill the shoes of players like Chris McGinnis-Parker and Karsen Garcia, both all-conference selecti ons that graduated,that
Eastern head coach Tim Camp wants to see more from. "A coupleofguys,it'sgoing to be their senior year," Camp said."Like Luis Ortiz, from Hermiston, he's a really good player, and he's one of the guys we need to show ioutl. It's going to be their senior year, and I'm counting on the guys that have been around for awhile. It's all about fundamentals and the basics, and doing things that you know you can do on a consistent basis." j benham@lagrandeobservercom
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