FOOTBALL 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
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FOOTBALL 2015
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The Northern Virginia Daily
FOOTBALL 2015
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FOOTBALL 2015
Central Falcons...............................................................6-9 Clarke County Eagles .................................................10-13 Handley Judges ..........................................................14-17 James Wood Colonels ................................................18-21 Millbrook Pioneers ......................................................22-25 Sherando Warriors ......................................................26-29 Skyline Hawks.............................................................30-33 Stonewall Jackson Generals ......................................34-37 Strasburg Rams...............................................38-39, 42-43 Warren County Wildcats .............................................44-48 Massanutten Military Academy Colonels ....................49-51 Randolph-Macon Academy Yellow Jackets ................52-54 High School Football Schedule........................................55 James Madison University Dukes...............................56-58 Shenandoah University Hornets .................................59-61 Shepherd University Rams .........................................62-64 University of Virginia Cavaliers ...................................65-67 Virginia Tech Hokies ...................................................68-70 Philadelphia Eagles ....................................................71-72 Baltimore Ravens........................................................73-74 Washington Redskins .................................................75-76 Pittsburgh Steelers......................................................77-78
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
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On the cover: Warren County’s Quay Caison says the Wildcats are ready to play some football. Page 46. Rich Cooley/Daily
2015-16 ADULT LEARNING CLASS REGISTRATION Shenandoah County/GED
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Central High School 1147 Susan Avenue Woodstock, VA
September 14 September 16 5:00 PM
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September 14 September 16 9:00 AM
Strasburg High School 250 Ram Drive Strasburg, VA
September 15 September 17 5:00 PM
Shenandoah County/ESL
Registration
Triplett Business and Technical Center September 9 6375 South Main Street 6:00 PM Mount Jackson, VA
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6 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
CENTRAL FALCONS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Falcons ‘hungry’ after missing playoffs in 2014 By Brad Fauber WOODSTOCK – Central High School’s streak of three consecutive football playoff appearances came to an end last season when the Falcons went 4-6 behind a host of new faces that made up nearly every position. But when Falcons head coach Mike Yew looks back on his team’s 2014 campaign, he sees some silver linings. Last season offered valuable playing time for many of this fall’s returning players, and the experience of seeing that postseason streak come to an end – and coming so tantalizingly close to keeping it alive – had the Falcons feeling eager to get back to work in 2015. “They know that we were two plays from being 6-4 and probably being a 12 seed (in the Region 3A East playoffs),” Yew said recently, referring to lastminute losses to Spotswood and Strasburg, the latter of which came in Central’s 2014 season finale. “But everything happens for a reason … and I think going 4-6 was probably better for us in the long run because we’re a Central's Varsey Bright (21) wards off little hungry now.” “We’re looking good,” Davis said. “I’m Yew said the Falcons, who now comfeeling good about this season. Feeling pete in the VHSL Group 2A classificagreat. The environment’s good. We have tion, came into fall camp looking noticeteam captains looking good and stuff. I ably upbeat, a mentality that sophothink we can make some noise this seamore tight end/linebacker Bryan Davis son.” said continued to exist throughout the team following Central’s first scrimmage of the preseason on Aug. 13.
2015 FALCONS • Coach: Mike Yew (ninth year, 44-44) • Offense/Defense: I-formation/4-4 • Key returnees: RB/LB Hank Hoover, WR/DB Tristan Rau WR/DB Carston Shockey, TE/LB Bryan Davis, OL/DL Codey Heltzel, OL/LB Todd Stocking, OL/DL Alex Sibert, OL/DL Matt Edwards, WR/LB Brandon Braithwaite, RB/LB Trey Riley, K/P Clifton Croom • Key losses: QB Sam Barbour, OL/DL Harold Wakeman, WR/DB Connor Hammack, RB/LB Jesse Cloyd, OL/LB Cody Polk, WR/DB John Hepner
Rich Cooley/Daily file
a John Champe defender during their game last season in Woodstock.
absolutely get it done,” Yew said. “Hossy … throws a better deep ball. He’s got a stronger arm. Hutch does a good job of running the offense, handing the ball off, throwing the underneath stuff. If either one are in the Central returns six starters on offense game we can move the ball.” and seven on defense, including senior Hosaflook, who played for Central’s JV running back/linebacker Hank Hoover, team as a freshman, returns to the who led the Falcons in rushing (923 Falcons’ program after spending his yards), total touchdowns (13) and total previous two years of high school in tackles (62) a season ago. West Virginia. Hosaflook’s prior experiOne key position Central will be inex- ence in Central’s system has helped perienced is at quarterback, where the ease the acclimation process, senior receiver Tristan Rau said. Falcons will feature their third different starter in as many seasons. Senior “We’re all used to him because he was Jordon Hosaflook and junior Colton here his freshman year. He played on Hutchinson competed for the role left JV with us,” said Rau, a first-team Allopen by the graduation of 2014 starter Conference 28 selection who caught 24 Sam Barbour, and Yew said in midpasses for 396 yards and three touchAugust the quarterback competition downs in 2014. “He hasn’t really was “60-40 in Hosaflook’s favor.” changed since then so it hasn’t been “I think both of our quarterbacks can very hard adjusting to him. We’ve got
2014 CENTRAL STATS • Record: 4-6 (3-3 Bull Run District) • Passing leader: Sam Barbour (74 for 159, 1,134 yards, 6 touchdowns, 9 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Hank Hoover (215 carries for 923 yards, 11 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Tristan Rau (24 receptions for 396 yards, 3 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Hank Hoover (62) • Sacks: Trey Riley (3), Harold Wakeman (3) • Interceptions: Connor Hammack (1), John Hepner (1), Cody Polk (1), Carston Shockey (1)
some new plays on offense and we’re just trying to get them in. It’s rolling now.” Hosaflook, who will also play safety for the Falcons, will benefit from having FALCONS, 9
CENTRAL FALCONS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
7
2014 RESULTS (4-6, 3-3 BULL RUN)
Aug. 28 Skyline, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 9
at Madison Co., 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 29 lost to John Champe, 35-10
Sept. 4
Oct. 16
at Riverside, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 5 beat Stonewall Jackson, 38-6 Oct. 17 lost to Clarke County, 40-14
Sept. 18 Turner Ashby, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 23
William Monroe, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 19 lost to Spotswood, 21-14
Oct. 24 lost to Warren County, 24-6
Sept. 25 at Clarke Co., 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 30
at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m.
Sept. 26 beat George Mason, 29-21
Oct. 31 beat Madison County, 19-16
Oct. 2
Nov. 6
George Mason, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 3
Nov. 7
Warren County, 7:30 p.m.
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CENTRAL FALCONS
8 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Hoover eager to reprise workhorse role for Falcons By Brad Fauber WOODSTOCK – Two years ago, Hank Hoover was lost in a depth chart crowded with 21 seniors. There simply wasn’t much playing time readily available for a sophomore on Central High School’s football team in 2013. That fall was admittedly a tough season for Hoover, who had starred on both sides of the ball as a running back and linebacker in two seasons on the Falcons’ JV squad only to be relegated to a special teams role in his first varsity season.
yards and 11 touchdowns and caught 16 passes for 213 yards and a score. On defense, Hoover tallied 62 total tackles (34 solo). Hoover was a second-team All-Bull Run District selection at running back a season ago, and Falcons head coach Mike Yew said Hoover possesses a lot of the qualities that make up a “pretty good” high school tailback.
“He has pretty good vision, that’s probably the one attribute,” Yew said. “… He blocks well. He’s got good speed. So he has a lot of the qualities. He’s not a 10 on all of them, but if he’s a seven, But Hoover, knowing it was all simply part of the eight, nine on pretty much all of them that makes you a pretty good running back and I think that’s process, accepted his role during his sophomore where Hank’s at.” season. Now entering his senior season, Hoover – whom “It’s just what happens,” he said recently. “You let Yew refers to as a “program player,” or a player your older kids play and whenever your time who has participated in football at Central for all comes, it comes.” five years (eighth grade included) – is ready to Hoover’s time came in his junior season in 2014 reprise his role as an every-down player in 2015. when the graduation of those 21 seniors left near“Definitely want to do it,” Hoover said, “and I ly every position up for grabs. want to do it two times better than I did last year.” “Knowing that all these positions were open, I wanted to get mine,” Hoover said. “I had [mine] since my ninth-grade year and then I wanted it again my 11th-grade year, so I definitely tried to step up my game to claim my spot.”
Rich Cooley/Daily
Central’s Hank Hoover stands along the sidelines during a recent practice.
With his eye on 1,000 rushing yards and more tackles than he recorded a season ago, Hoover will certainly have his chances to accomplish both of those goals this fall. Yew estimated Hoover will get around 18 carries per game (he averaged 21.5 By the time the first game rolled around last fall, last season), although Yew said that number will vary based on the game situation and effectiveHoover had locked up a starting role as both the featured running back and one of the middle line- ness of Central’s rushing attack. backers. When the season ended, he led Central in On defense, the senior returns as a middle linerushing yards, touchdowns and total tackles. backer in arguably Central’s deepest and most As the workhorse in the Falcons’ offensive backHOOVER, 9 field, Hoover carried the ball 215 times for 923
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CENTRAL FALCONS
Falcons Continued from 6
experience around him at the skill positions and along the offensive line. In addition to Davis at tight end, Central’s offensive line includes three returning starters in seniors Codey Heltzel, Todd Stocking and junior Alex Sibert, although Central’s lack of depth due to below-average roster size could bring some challenges to that position group. “We’re just very thin up front,” Yew said. “We have five linemen that start, probably have one or two more that are ready to go in now and then after that we may be moving some tight ends or fullbacks to the line.” Defensively, Heltzel and senior Matt Edwards return to the line while senior Carston Shockey retains his role as a starting cornerback in the secondary. But the unit’s true strength lies at linebacker, where veterans Davis, Hoover, Stocking, Brandon Braithwaite and Trey Riley all return. “As they go, we’ll go,” Yew said of the linebackers. “If they have a bad game it could be a long night for us. If they play well, we’ll have a good night.” Clifton Croom returns to handle the kicking duties for the Falcons, and Yew said the junior entered camp with a stronger leg after attending some kicking camps over the summer. Croom made six field goals last season and Yew said he anticipates using Croom for attempts up to 38 yards out. Central opens the 2015 season at home against Skyline tonight, the first of three straight home games in a stretch that includes Stonewall Jackson and Turner Ashby before opening Bull Run District play with defending district champion Clarke County. Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
2015 ROSTER No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 10 11 12 14 15 16 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 28 31 32 33 44 45 50 51 52 53 54 55 57 58 63 66 67 74 75 77
Name Varsey Bright Jordon Hosaflook Tristan Rau Trey Riley Aaron Crider Elijah Williams Hank Hoover Timothy Sloan Alonzo Charity Tru Bowen Chance Estleford Colton Hutchinson Carston Shockey Mason Lucy-Spiedel Caleb Fredman Mason Marston Zebadiah Dyer Brandon Chavez Brandon Braithwaite Brandon Davis Clifton Croom Christopher Carter Matthew Bromley Zachery Bokanyi Bryan Davis Zachary Abrams Alexander Sibert Andrew Miller Dakota Harvey James Horn Ronald Schreiber Todd Stocking Matthew Edwards Grayson Manning Tyler Plauger Connor Funk Nathaniel Burner Corwin Gonzalez Codey Heltzel Jonthan Riggs
Pos. WR/DB QB/DB WR/DB RB/LB RB/DB WR/DB RB/LB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB WR/DB QB/DB RB/DB WR/DB WR/DE WR/DE QB/LB WR/DB WR/LB RB/DB K/P RB/DB RB/DE RB/DE TE/LB RB/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL
Ht. 5-8 6-1 5-9 5-10 5-11 5-11 6-0 5-10 5-5 5-8 5-6 5-10 5-9 5-5 6-0 5-9 5-11 5-8 5-10 5-9 5-10 5-7 5-9 5-11 5-11 5-7 5-8 5-11 5-5 5-11 5-11 5-9 5-10 5-11 5-7 6-2 5-10 5-9 6-1 6-6
Wt. 140 161 164 174 155 147 180 158 129 143 127 173 156 115 161 150 193 134 165 146 140 158 170 195 247 186 228 223 160 205 192 221 155 198 220 326 145 242 309 257
Yr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. So. Fr. Jr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Jr. So. So. Sr. So. Sr. Sr. Fr. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. Sr. So.
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Hoover Continued from 8
experienced position group (all four starting linebackers from last season return), and with some special teams responsibilities tacked on due to limited roster availability, Hoover will rarely leave the field as long as he’s healthy. “He’s just going to have to play 65, 70 plays a game,” Yew said. “That’s all there is to it.” To prepare his body for the expected workload, Hoover, who recalled being in less-than-ideal shape for his role at the start of last season, rarely left the weight room during the offseason. The 6-foot, 180-pound senior entered camp this summer about 10 pounds heavier than last season, he said, and he anticipates his legs will be ready to withstand the long season after completing a month’s worth of conditioning drills with Falcons assistant coach Rich Shockey during fall camp. “Shockey makes sure that you take those shifts by either bear crawling up a hill or carrying another man up the hill on your back, which is just hard. But it builds up the muscle and it gets you ready for the season,” Hoover said. Central finished 4-6 last season and missed the playoffs after making three straight postseason appearances. But importantly for Hoover, it gave him a real feel for what it takes to compete and be successful at the varsity level. “I think I’m more aware of what’s going to happen and what the skill level is,” Hoover said. “I’ll be more prepared, I think, than last year.” Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
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The Northern Virginia Daily
CLARKE COUNTY EAGLES
10 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Rich Cooley/Daily
Clarke County quarterback Jordan Turner rifles a pass during a recent practice.
Success not simple for Eagles 2015 EAGLES • Coach: Chris Parker (16th year, 97-65) • Offense/Defense: Single wing/multiple • Key returnees: OL/DL Julius Grant, QB/DB Jordan Turner, RB/CB Matthew Dang, RB/LB Hunter Rogers, OL/LB Josh Wallace, WR/DB Brett McDonald • Key losses: QB/S Sean McDonald, OL/DL Logan Withers, TE Vince Zduoba, WR/DB Justin Delaney, LB Carson Perkins
By Jim Laise
two regular seasons undefeated, winning helps build our roster numplaying deep into the Group 2A play- bers up,” Parker said. “But it’s also about the system we run, the loyalty offs. BERRYVILLE — One might think of the coaches and the players and Clarke has done that, but it takes that to coach football at Clarke our weight program.” County High School football, one ros- more than rolling the football out on Parker coaches the versatile singleter is substituted for the next and it Wilbur Feltner Field and watching wing where several ballplayers in what happens. just keeps rolling. the backfield carry, hand off and/or Parker has built a program where Certainly, the Eagles’ record would pass the ball. Also, the head man has it’s a matter of “next man up,” but he a staff that coaches other sports, and prove that. Head coach Chris Parker says there is more to it than that. also shares the high school building — 97 career victories — has seen back-to-back squads finish the last “I think the fact that we’ve been EAGLES, 13
CLARKE COUNTY EAGLES
2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 4
Manassas Park, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 9
Sept. 11 Millbrook, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 16
Sept. 19 at Handley, 1 p.m.
Oct. 23
Sept. 25 Clarke County, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 30
Oct. 2
at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6
Strasburg, 7:30 p.m.
Aug. 29 at George Mason, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Riverside, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 Warren County, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Madison County, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
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2014 RESULTS (11-1, 7-0 BULL RUN) beat Berk. Springs (W.Va.), 41-7 beat Stonewall Jackson, 55-8 beat Brentsville, 42-7 beat Strasburg, 30-14 beat Warren County, 28-6 beat Madison County, 62-7
Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 21
beat Central, 40-14 beat Manassas Park, 48-14 beat George Mason, 54-0 beat William Monroe, 57-15 beat Nandua, 44-0 lost to Nottoway, 13-2
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The Northern Virginia Daily
12 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
CLARKE COUNTY EAGLES
The Northern Virginia Daily
Rich Cooley/Daily
Clarke County's Matthew Dang aims to lead the Eagles to another strong season this year.
Clarke County’s Dang overcomes obstacles By Jim Laise
He had a compound fracture of the finger. The bone was sticking out. He subsequently lost the tip of the digit.
BERRYVILLE - Clarke County High School head football coach Chris Parker When Parker asked Dang what had can remember it like it was yesterday. happened, he said, “Don’t worry coach, In the preseason of 2013, he had a I’ll be back in two weeks.” feisty sophomore named Matt Dang, Well, it was not exactly two weeks. who was trying to make a name for The finger became infected and cost himself. him the entire regular season. The
Dang recalled, “but it ended up holding me out for the rest of the season until the playoffs. I hated it. I stood on the sideline of each game saying to myself, ‘I should be in there. I should be helping the team.” He has been able to lend his support. His sophomore year the team went three rounds in the 2A playoffs, last year it was two rounds.
back undefeated regular seasons. The team has gone 23-2 in that time. The program has enjoyed eight consecutive winning campaigns. “We’re not planning to back off now,” Dang said of himself and his 21 fourthyear playing teammates. The Eagles open the season Sept. 4 at Bull Run District foe Manassas Park. The team will also play Millbrook, Handley and a brand new Loudoun County program.
Dang hit a ball carrier so hard in prac- then-sophomore did return for the end tice that he fractured the middle finger of the campaign. He intercepted a pass Parker welcomed about 60 members of his throwing hand. in the playoff against Luray which pro- to the varsity this year, and that numpelled the Eagles to the state quarterfi- ber includes eight returning offensive The current senior running back/cornals. players and seven on the defensive side “The other three teams on our (schednerback was unaware of the injury of the year. until he got back to the bench. “That’s the kind of kid he is,” Parker ule) dropped us,” said Dang. “We’re taksaid. This class of 2016 — the one in which ing this year as a challenge against “Then somebody looked at my hand Dang plays — has finished off back-to- some of the bigger schools.” and asked what was going on,” he said. “I didn’t think it was that serious,”
The Northern Virginia Daily
Eagles Continued from 10
with the team. “We have really unselfish coaches. Most of them coach other sports and most of them are in the building. That helps. I teach a weightlifting course and see the players almost every day,” said Parker. And, as for that weight program, Parker and his staff of Casey Childs, Brent Emmart, Rick Sjostrom, Andre Kidrick, Jesse Hudson, Jon Novick and Matt Ernst have devised a reward system to acknowledge the top lifters.
CLARKE COUNTY EAGLES
“
We test them on the first day of practice, so we know theyʼve been working out in the summer. Chris Parker Eaglesʼ Head Coach age per carry), and running back/cornerback Matt Dang.
While Rogers and Dang could find themselves taking shotgun snaps in the backfield and then optioning out of it, the ultimate responsibility will fall on the shoulders of senior quarThis season two-way lineman Julius terback-defensive back Jordan Grant carried off the Platinum Iron Turner. Eagle trophy, having raised more Turner played only a half-season a pounds than anyone else. His total year ago due to a broken collarbone. amounted to 1,535 pounds in four In the six games in which the thenseparate exercises. There were seven junior appeared, he carried the ball Eagles who reached the 1,200 29 times for 213 yards (7.3) and plateau. The latter youngsters earn three touchdowns. T-shirts. He will try to replace Sean “We test them on the first day of McDonald, one of the school’s allpractice, so we know they’ve been time best athletes. In three years as working out in the summer,” said the starting QB, the 6-foot-3, 230Parker. pound signal caller set the career Grant, a senior, is one of eight passing record. He was a three-year starters who return on offense, and starter who scored 39 TDs, rushed among the seven defenders who come for 1,314 yards and passed for 888 back from last season’s 11-1 finish. his senior year. He will be joined on the interior by Sean McDonald’s younger brother, offensive lineman/linebacker Josh junior Brett McDonald, returns as a Wallace. receiver/defensive back. The offense will be spurred by runThe Eagles would like to top last ning back-linebacker Hunter Rogers, season, when the team made it to the who rushed for 1,258 yards (8.1 aversecond round of the conference playoffs. 2014 STATS • Record: 11-1, 7-0 Bull Run District) • Passing leader: Sean McDonald (48 for 84 passing, 888 yards, 15 touchdowns) • Rushing leader: Sean McDonald (160 carries, 1,314 yards, 24 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Hunter Rogers (12 receptions for 253 yards, 3 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Carson Perkins (110) • Sacks: Bryan Wallace (10) • Interceptions: Justin Delaney, Jordon Turner (2)
“Our sophomore year we got to the third round, last year it was the second, we don’t want to go backwards,” said Dang. “That’s not our plan. We want to win a state championship.” Dang added, “We’re an optimistic bunch.”
“Our senior class (22 strong) is kind of different you could say,” he added. Parker welcomed some 60 players to the varsity level. About 20 more Eagles are on the junior varsity team.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
2015 ROSTER No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 18 20 21 22 24 25 28 32 35 36 37 39 40 44 46 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 58 59 60 61 64 66 67 69 70 71 72 73 75 76 77 80 81 83 85 86 87 89
Name Hunter Rogers Gregory Shippa Patrick Cleary Jacob Parrott Jason Ottobre Christopher Davis Michael Fields Matthew Dang Tanner Dinkins Cole Lawson Christopher Keim Edward Buzalsky Zach Poole Julius Palmer William Jackson Nathaniel Barb Brett McDonald Joseph Davidson Seth Mayo Jordon Turner Robert Pryor Richard Nappi Thomas Detwiler Benjamin Butler James Martin Zach Flynn Daniel Braithwaite Lucas Rogers Jack Benner Raul Jimenez Kaleb Langley William McLean Julius Grant Christian Camacho Clayton Murphy Joshua Wallace Cameron Marshall Zachary Melusen Lee Louthan Bryan Wallace Evan Whirley Nolan Hall Jacob Peace William Spalding Jr. Daniel Roberts Kyle Anderson Hugh Kiser Johnny Fens Michael Shepherd Jesse Carroll Samuel White Dylan Thompson Benjamin Sprouse Dalton Crandall Dietrich Tilley Andrew Bonett William Roper Steven Mercke Stephen Clapp
Height 5-8 5-10 5-11 5-6 5-10 6-1 5-10 6-2 5-8 5-9 5-9 5-6 5-9 5-6 5-10 5-6 6-1 5-10 6-1 5-10 5-6 5-8 5-10 6-2 6-2 5-11 5-11 6-0 5-9 5-8 5-6 5-8 6-0 5-10 5-10 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-1 6-4 6-0 5-10 5-9 5-6 5-6 5-10 5-11 5-11 6-2 6-5 6-3 5-7 5-6 5-10 6-1 6-0 6-0 5-10 6-0
Weight 185 170 150 140 165 200 190 185 150 150 165 140 170 130 150 150 205 150 185 180 120 160 150 180 205 170 180 185 125 150 130 150 225 220 205 220 210 225 250 200 225 150 280 190 125 250 215 170 285 200 200 180 160 150 170 185 190 155 150
Pos. RB/DB QB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/LB RB/LB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/LB RB/DB RB/DB RB/DB RB/LB TE/LB RB/DB TE/DL/K QB/DB RB/DB TE/DL K RB/DB TE/DL RB/DB RB/LB TE/DL RB/DB RB/LB RB/LB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL RB/LB OL/DL OL/DL RB/DB OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL OL/DL RB/LB RB/DB/K TE/DL TE/DL RB/LB TE/LB RB/DB
Year Jr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. So. Sr. So. So. So. Sr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Sr. So. So. Sr. Sr. Jr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. Sr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Sr. So. Sr. Jr. So. So. Jr. So. Jr. Jr. Sr. Jr. Sr. Jr. So. So. So. Jr. Sr. So. So.
13
14 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
HANDLEY JUDGES
The Northern Virginia Daily
Judges confident despite plenty of holes to fill in 2015 By Brad Fauber WINCHESTER – The holes are pretty glaring for Handley’s football team heading into the 2015 season. Gone is four-year starting quarterback Will Dearing, who joined the University of Richmond as a preferred walk-on this fall. Gone are Dontae Mauck and Justin Washington, who earned full scholarships to Virginia Military Institute and University of Delaware, respectively. Gone is D.J. Frisby, who walked on at Marshall University. In all, the Judges lost 16 seniors from a year ago to graduation, including eight who earned AllNorthwestern District/All-Conference 23 accolades.
2015 JUDGES • Coach: Tony Rayburn (14th year, 97-49) • Offense/Defense: Pro/50 • Key returnees: TE/LB Dolan Delaney, OL/DL Thomas Shea-Roop, WR/DB Marcus Tactikos, RB/LB Anthony Smith, RB/LB Jacob Shade, TE/LB Jimmy Vitola III • Key losses: QB Will Dearing, WR/DB Justin Washington, WR/DB Dontae Mauck, RB/DB D.J. Frisby, RB/DL Marquaye Jackson, OL/DL Cole Daylor, OL/DL Max Prado, K/P Nick Marshall
Rich Cooley/Daily
Handley players practice their kickoff during a recent practice at the Handley Bowl. “First of all, you can’t replace some of those kids,” longtime Handley coach Tony Rayburn said. “But we’re going into it and we’re setting goals and the goals are simple. They’re to
get better every day and be the most we can, and if we can take care of those I think we have some players on the team that can give us a chance to compete.”
Despite the talent, Handley mustered only four wins last season and missed the playoffs following an JUDGES, 17
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HANDLEY JUDGES
The Northern Virginia Daily
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
15
Courtesy photo/Melissa Ambers
2014 RESULTS (4-6, 1-3 NORTHWESTERN)
Aug. 28 at Warren County, 7 p.m.
Oct. 10
Loudoun Valley, 1 p.m.
Aug. 29 lost to Liberty, 35-0
Oct. 4
Sept. 4
Oct. 16
at Sherando, 7 p.m.
Sept. 6 beat Harrisonburg, 35-0
Oct. 18 lost to Sherando, 43-29
Sept. 11 Fauquier, 4:30 p.m.
Oct. 24
Skyline, 1 p.m.
Sept. 12 beat Fauquier, 48-6
Oct. 24 lost to Skyline, 35-28
Sept. 19 Clarke County, 1 p.m.
Oct. 30
at Millbrook, 7 p.m.
Sept. 20 lost to Eastern View, 46-16
Nov. 1
James Wood, 1 p.m.
Sept. 26 beat Washington (W.Va.), 38-0 Nov. 7
Oct. 2
at Harrisonburg, 7 p.m.
at Jefferson (W.Va.), 7 p.m. Nov. 7
lost to Kettle Run, 27-13
beat Millbrook, 56-38 lost to James Wood, 27-21
248132e
2015 SCHEDULE
HANDLEY JUDGES
16 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Tactikos a ‘super aggressive’ presence in Handley’s young secondary By Brad Fauber WINCHESTER – To hear longtime Handley football coach Tony Rayburn tell it, there may not be a player on the Judges’ roster with a bigger motor than Marcus Tactikos. A three-year varsity player with experience at safety and wide receiver – one of the few veteran Judges returning in 2015 – Tactikos is described as “super aggressive” by his head coach, a player who would run through a wall if given the opportunity.
Handley’s Marcus Tactikos, center, runs off the field during a recent practice at the Handley Bowl.
“He goes full speed, 100 percent,” Rayburn said recently. “He’s tough, he’s super aggressive and our concerns are just hopefully he doesn’t get hurt because he just goes after you.” Tactikos’ health will be a top priority for Handley this fall given his value, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. He is the only player in the secondary with any varsity experience, and Rayburn said Tactikos is “no doubt” the Judges’ leader in a defensive backfield filled with new faces.
Rich Cooley/Daily
backs that were like 205, so I had to get low and I couldn’t stop my feet or nothing.”
Tactikos didn’t quite reach 185 pounds despite Rayburn assisting him in developing a “We’re looking at a lot of peodiet that required Tactikos to ple, he’s trying to teach them consume 8,000 calories a day, how to line up,” Rayburn said. he said. While lifting regularly “It’s tough … but he’s really led in the winter and during track by example and he’s been a great leader. For us to have any season in the spring, Tactikos success this year he’s got to be hit about 175 pounds at one point in the offseason before he on the field.” “got lazy” late in the summer, With more durability on his he said, and lost about half of mind, Tactikos set a goal for that added weight, eventually himself in the off season to starting Handley’s fall camp at bump his weight up to 185 around 165 pounds. pounds, a target mostly But Tactikos’ mentality was brought on by his experience rejuvenated at the start of fall playing in the secondary last practice when he stepped right season. “It was hard for me because I in and grabbed hold of leadership responsibilities and drew was little last year,” Tactikos praise from Rayburn. said. “… I was like 150 [pounds] running at running
“A lot of the guys look up to
me, and even in practice Coach is like, ‘So far the only starter we have is Marcus. If you need any help ask Marcus.’ He was like, ‘Marcus inspired a player yesterday, who are you going to inspire today?’” Tactikos recalled. “… It makes me work a lot harder.” Last season as a junior, Tactikos recorded 25 tackles and snagged two interceptions from his safety position. This being his third varsity season, Tactikos said he expects those numbers to rise in 2015. “I’ve definitely gotten a lot faster and just my reaction to different plays and how the receiver cuts,” Tactikos said. “… I can kind of feel where they’re going now, like what they’re going to do, because I’m a receiver too so I know all that leaning and stuff, the head bobbing.”
Rayburn said Tactikos covers well in the secondary, and his athleticism and ability to go up and get the football is a strength on both sides of the ball. As a receiver last season, Tactikos took a backseat to players such as Dontae Mauck (887 yards receiving) and Justin Washington (410 yards receiving) – who each earned Division I scholarships to Virginia Military Institute and Delaware, respectively – and hauled in only two passes for 31 yards. Although Handley doesn’t figure to pass as much now that unproven senior quarterback Matt Elliott has taken the reins from graduated four-year starter Will Dearing, Tactikos expects to be the Judges’ top receiving target in 2015.
“During the whole offseason, like every week we would go to the field – me, [Elliott] and some receivers – and just throw around, do some routes and get used to it,” Tactikos said. The Judges were disappointed with their 4-6 record in 2014 and figure to have plenty of work to do in replacing the production lost from the graduation of 16 seniors, but Tactikos said the Judges are confident they can still make improvements on that record this fall. “I think we’re going to do better than we did last year. We’ve got a lot of kids with talent this year,” Tactikos said. “We’ve got some talent. It’s just raw talent.” Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
The Northern Virginia Daily
Judges
HANDLEY JUDGES
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
17
2015 ROSTER Continued from 14
overtime loss to James Wood in the regular-season finale, the Judges’ first loss to their city rival since 2007. But for those players who return from 2014, last season’s struggles — and the subsequent roster turnover — has provided them with an extra spark.
Rayburn enters his 14th season as Handleyʼs head coach three wins shy of 100 for his career as the Judges open the season tonight at Warren County.
“We were 4-6 last year and the guys that played last year were quite disappointed in that,” Rayburn said. “… I think expectations are pretty low for us, and they want to come out and exceed expectations. So they have confidence.”
out, play-action when we throw to try to help our quarterback. And so far Matt Elliott, he’s a kid who’s been with the program three years and he Offensively, Handley returns only two starters — hasn’t played a whole lot but he’s a great kid. He’s got some work to do in a lot of areas but again tight end Dolan Delaney and offensive lineman Tommy Shea-Roop – and will feature a new quar- we’re starting to see a little bit of progress as we terback for the first time in four seasons as senior go through and he’s an excellent leader.” Defensively, Handley returns six players with Matt Elliott steps into that role. starting experience, including Delaney, who led To compensate for the inexperience at quarterthe team with 132 tackles and tied for the team back — as well as wide receiver, where senior lead with six sacks. Marcus Tactikos is the leading receiver returning Shea-Roop will retain his spot along the defenafter catching two passes for 31 yards in 2014 — sive line, while Tactikos will start at safety and Rayburn said the Judges will rely heavily on the lead a secondary filled with new faces. Most of the running game this season and will use more twoJudges’ experience returns at linebacker, where back formations. Delaney, Smith (55 tackles), Shade and junior Seniors Anthony Smith and Jacob Shade, who Jimmy Vitola have all seen significant action. both have prior varsity experience – albeit at linebacker – separated themselves early in camp from “I think we have a chance to be pretty solid up a running back group that consisted of about five front,” Rayburn said. “Our secondary is young but or six players, Rayburn said, and the coach added we’re hoping that the athletes are there, but they’re just going to have to learn as they go. We that he expects to be able to establish a running game behind an inexperienced but athletic offen- definitely can’t put them on an island too much. While they develop we need to put some pressure sive line anchored by Shea-Roop and fellow senon the quarterback.” iors Daniel Johnson and Luke Grzywacz. Junior Aidan Marshall will assume the team’s “We’re going to try to fit our offense to our quarkicking responsibilities after his older brother, terbacks and what they can or can’t do,” Rayburn Nick, held the role for the last three years before said. “For a young quarterback, you just can’t sit graduating last spring. and drop back in the pocket and throw it. We’ll do a little bit of quick gain. We’ll do a lot of spread-
2014 STATS • Record: 4-6 (1-3 Northwestern) • Passing leader: Will Dearing (127 for 222, for 2,028 yards, 25 touchdowns, 11 interceptions) • Rushing leader: D.J. Frisby (124 carries for 714 yards, 4 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Dontae Mauck (42 receptions for 887 yards, 13 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Dolan Delaney (132) • Sacks: Dolan Delaney, Ben Nelson (6) • Interceptions: Tyler Mudd (3)
Handley has 13 seniors on this season’s roster, and Rayburn said those seniors are “one of the best groups of leadership-type guys that we’ve had in a while.”
No. 2
Name Matthew Elliott
Position QB/DB
Year Sr.
3
Deauntia Green
RB/LB
Sr.
4
Dolan Delaney
TE/LB
Sr.
5
Jacob Parker
QB/DB
Fr.
6
Daquay Pannell
RB/LB
Sr.
7
Sergio Martines
RB/LB
Sr.
8
RaʼShaad Morris
WR/DB
So.
9
Marcus Tactikos
WR/DB
Sr.
10
Kevin Nguyen
QB/DB
So.
11
Andrew Mudd
WR/DB
So.
11
Cameron Davenport
WR/DB
So.
12
Jorden Davenport
13
Arthur Ashe
WR/DB
So.
20
Giovanni Carter
RB/LB
Jr.
21
Tyler Mudd
WR/DB
Jr.
22
Brent Gaynor
WR/DB
So.
25
Ryan Estep
WR/LB
Jr.
26
DaQuain Cook
WR/DB
Jr.
30
Jacob Shade
RB/LB
Sr.
32
Anthony Smith
RB/LB
Sr.
33
Micah Strother
RB/DB
Sr.
34
Christopher Bockey
WR/DB
So.
41
Errance Fusco-Grant
TE/DL
Jr.
42
Aidan Marshall
K/P
Jr.
50
Daniel Sastre-Gonzales
OL/DL
So.
52
Ethan Daniels
TE/DL
Sr.
53
James Vitola III
TE/LB
Jr.
54
Marquese Clifford
OL/DL
Sr.
55
Luke Grzywacz
OL/LB
Sr.
56
Austin Bullis
OL/DL
Jr.
57
Daniel Johnson
OL/DL
Sr.
63
Joseph Mammano
OL/DL
So.
64
Ian Ganey
OL/DL
So.
65
Tyreke Mason
OL/DL
Jr.
So.
69
Robert Teahan
OL/DL
So.
Rayburn enters his 14th season as Handley’s head coach three wins shy of 100 for his career as the Judges open the season tonight at Warren County.
70
Thomas Shea-Roop
OL/DL
Sr.
72
Bryce McDole
OL/DL
So.
80
Anthony Leon
WR/DB
Jr.
“We have team guys who want to go out and do whatever it takes to win for the team,” Rayburn said. “And sometimes teams like that go out and have a chance to exceed expectations.”
81
Eliecer Miranda
WR/DB
So.
81
Schyler Lopez
WR/DB
Jr.
82
Travis Spinks
TE/LB
Jr.
83
Austin Dietrich
WR/DB
So.
84
Christian Moten
RB/LB
So.
Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
18 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
JAMES WOOD COLONELS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Coach Mark McHale hopes for strong team at James Wood By Jim Laise WINCHESTER — Mark McHale will not speculate on what kind of record his James Wood High School football team will have at the end of the season. But one thing he is certain of is that it will be a conditioned club, which may be able to overcome its depth issues for another solid campaign. McHale welcomed 32 players out for football this summer, including 12 seniors. “I don’t like to give out a record because what if you don’t achieve that, then what?” McHale asked recently at the Colonels’ media day. “I’m like Nick Saban, we’re just trying to get better every day,” the COLONELS, 21
2015 COLONELS • Coach: Mark McHale (Third year, 6-15) • Offense/Defense: spread/multiple, 4-4 • Key returnees: RB/LB Tyler Bishop, RB/LB Ryan Funkhouser, TE/DE Asa Brewer, OL/DL Adam Vadell, OL/DL Emmett Smith
Rich Cooley/Daily
James Wood’s Tyler Bishop runs the ball during a recent practice.
263874e
• Key losses: QB Brady Hepner, FB/LB Landon Rutherford, WR/DB Nick Manuel, OL/DL Cody Feltner, OL/DL Tyler Owens
JAMES WOOD COLONELS
2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 at Heritage (Leesburg), 7 p.m. Oct. 2
Sherando, 7 p.m.
Sept. 4
at Skyline, 7 p.m.
Park View (Sterling), 7 p.m. Oct. 16
Sept. 11 at Warren County, 7 p.m.
Oct. 23
Millbrook, 7 p.m.
Sept. 18 Strasburg, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
at Spring Mills, 7 p.m.
Sept. 25 Hedgesville (W.Va.), 7 p.m.
Nov. 7
at Handley, 1 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
19
2014 RESULTS (5-6, 2-2 NORTHWESTERN) Aug. 29 lost to Heritage (Leesburg), 24-12 Oct. 3 Sept. 5 lost to Loudoun Valley, 38-0 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Sept. 12 beat Warren County, 36-0 Oct. 24 Sept. 19 beat Strasburg, 40-20 Nov. 7 Sept. 26 lost to Fauquier, 17-15 Nov. 14
beat Broadway, 21-14 lost to Sherando, 44-7 lost to Skyline, 42-14 beat Millbrook, 21-20 beat Handley, 27-21, OT lost to Sherando, 48-0
248133e
The Northern Virginia Daily
20 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
JAMES WOOD COLONELS
The Northern Virginia Daily
McHale tabs Bishop ‘a leader’ “ By Jim Laise
WINCHESTER — As good a player as he is on the field, it might be his effort off the field that most defines James Wood High School running back-linebacker Tyler Bishop.
Tyler Bishop is as good as they come when it comes to leading the team.
“Tyler Bishop is as good as they come when it comes to leading the team,” said James Wood coach Mark McHale. “First of all, he has the temperament for it — to be a leader. Then he leads us in everything else, on the field, off the field, in the weight room and out of it.”
Mark McHale James Wood coach “I’m not into my individual goals as I am our team goals. One of them is to go farther in the playoffs than we did this year. We’ll have to work at it, and stay healthy, but if we can do those two things, I think we have a chance.”
On the field, the last time area fans got a good look at Bishop, a 5-foot-8, 190-pound senior, he was carrying the ball into the end zone from 10 yards out to stop city-county rival Handley 27-21 in a regular-season overtime finale. The Colonels went on to lose a playoff battle, but what Bishop and his teammates had done was nothing short of historic.
McHale is not so bold, preferring to play it day-by-day. “I’m like Nick Saban. If we get better each day, the rest will take care of itself.”
The 5-6 overall record was the best since the 2010 season. The playoff spot was the Colonels’ first since 2011. The victory over the Judges was their first since 2007. Before that you would have to go all the way back to 1992 for the last time the Gold and Blue knocked off the Maroon and White.
However, the coach is pleased about the team’s attitude. “They should feel good. They should want to improve,” said the coach.
“Twenty-two years. Twenty-two years!” McHale said incredulously. “I hadn’t been around and couldn’t believe you had to go back 22 years.” McHale was part of the Walter Barr dynasty that the Hall of Fame high school and college coach established his first time around at the Frederick County school. McHale played for and coached with Barr at their alma mater, Shepherd College. The current JW coach also had stops with Bobby Bowden at Florida State. He has coached scholastic, college and pro-level ball. “Our rival here is Millbrook,
Rich Cooley/Daily
James Wood’s Tyler Bishop is coming off another strong season at running back for the Colonels.
If the Colonels are to achieve last season’s success or stretch the season further, a lot of it will have to do with the leadership that players like Bishop, Ryan Funkhouser and Asa Brewer provide. All three were allconference second team members. They were part of the AllNorthwestern District first team. McHale said, “We have a good weight program.” He sets up tests individuals at nine-week intervals and said the team did better than expected in conditioning.
As a running back he carried for about 900 yards and caught passes for almost 260 more. He scored 12 A big part of it was due to Bishop’s total touchdowns. Defensively, he leadership. accumulated an unheard-of 135 tack“He works hard so those around les. him work hard to keep up with him. Yet the three-year starter would In order to do that, Bishop may He’s one of our leaders,” said the have to match last season’s numbers. prefer to talk about the team. coach. because a lot of our players went to school with members of their team. But you know who my rival is. It’s Handley. So I’m working on getting us two rivals on the schedule,” McHale said.
The Northern Virginia Daily
Colonels
JAMES WOOD COLONELS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
21
2015 ROSTER
2014 STATS • Record: 1-9, 1-3 Northwestern
No.
Name
Ht.
Wt.
Pos.
Yr.
• Passing leader: Brady Hepner (55 for 107, 853 yards, 8 touchdowns, 10 interceptions)
2
Ryan Bearer
5-10
155
WR/DB
Jr.
• Rushing leader: Tyler Bishop (151 carries for 894 yards, 9 touchdowns)
5
Ryan Rupp
6-0
175
WR/DB
Jr.
• Receiving leader: Nick Manuel (21 catches for 346 yards, 2 touchdowns)
6
Christopher Lakin
5-8
165
WR/DB
Jr.
7
Brady Burner
5-11
170
K
Sr.
9
Payton Miller
5-6
155
QB/LB
Jr.
11
David Funk
6-1
220
OL/DL
Jr.
12
Dade Carroll
5-11
165
QB/DB
Jr.
13
Bryan Wilson
5-9
160
WR/DB
Jr.
20
Matthew Carico
5-10
140
WR/DB
Sr.
21
Noah Sullivan
6-0
195
TE/DB
Jr.
24
Kyle Hindman
6-1
185
WR/DB
Sr.
25
Dillon Manuel
5-11
170
WR/DB
Sr.
27
Keegan DeHaven
5-10
170
RB/LB
Jr.
28
Tyler Bishop
5-8
190
RB/LB
Sr.
35
Jacob Whitacre
5-10
175
WR/DB
Jr.
45
Ryan Funkhouser
5-11
175
RB/LB
Sr.
46
Dylan Holliday
5-7
170
OL/DE
Fr.
48
Luke Roy
5-10
180
RB/LB
Fr.
50
Adam Vadell
6-0
270
OL/DL
Sr.
51
Donald Mellott
5-9
195
OL/LB
Sr.
The most pleasant surprise on the roster is 6-foot-5, 285-pound senior two-way tackle Emmett Smith.
52
Cody Polk
5-11
215
TE/LB
Sr.
55
Isaac Schrantz
5-11
260
OL/DE
Jr.
“A year ago, you might not have thought he “We test them every nine weeks. Each week could make it, but he has developed himself in a player who could go to a Division III the team tested well in weights, they tested school,” said McHale. well in their 110s (yard sprints). We had some momentum off of that. There were Senior Brady Burner returns as the team’s no missed sessions and, in this day-and-time, kicking specialist. Other final-year JW playthat’s big. I talk to them because I have some ers include WR/DB Matthew Carico, WR-DB of them in weight class, and they seem to be Kyle Hindman, WR-DB Drew Keller, WR-DB in good condition to me,” McHale said. Johnny Lanzetta, WR/DB Dillon Manuel,
56
Damien Hale
5-10
280
OL/DL
Jr.
63
Justin Vernocy
5-10
205
OL/LB
Jr.
75
Dominic Revetta
5-10
277
OL/DL
So.
76
Treyquone Evans
6-2
270
OL/DL
Fr.
77
Emmett Smith
6-5
285
OL/DL
Fr.
79
Kevin Woodward
6-1
337
OL/DL
Fr.
81
Vincenzo Lanzetta
5-6
135
WR/DB
Sr.
82
Asa Brewer
6-1
190
TE/DE
Sr.
86
Drew Keller
5-8
150
WR/DB
Sr.
Continued from 18
third-year James Wood head coach. McHale, a member of the P. Wendell Dick Hall of Fame at his alma mater (‘68), has been around big name coaches throughout his career, starting with Walter Barr at both James Wood and Shepherd College and then Bobby Bowden at Florida State. His career has spanned high school, college and pro ball stops. He knows when to pull a punch.
• Total tackles: Ryan Funkhouser (130) • Sacks: Asa Brewer (5.5) • Interceptions: Nick Manuel (7)
and stopping the run.
But McHale smiles when he talks about the He has four veteran two-way players whom he will build around, along with a mammoth winter and spring postseason. It started with a final regular-season-victo- surprise. ry over rival Handley and then a playoff spot for the first time since 2011. The overtime thriller against the Judges marked James Woods’ first W over them since 2007 (and just second since 1992). At 5-6, the record included the program’s first quintet of successes since 2010. For that reason McHale said he expects his players “to think like they can win. I’m sure they’re talking about getting deeper into the postseason. That’s what you want.” But, as for the coach, he plans to travel just a day at a time. Still the offseason was worth mentioning. McHale sets up his program in nine-week increments. After each nine weeks, he checks in with the players about their spiritual, mental (academics) and physical approach. McHale also works in the weight room with his players.
Seniors Tyler Bishop (running back-linebacker), Ryan Funkhouser (RB-LB) and Asa Brewer (tight end-defensive end) are the “three amigos” of the Colonel football team, according to McHale. Bishop (5-foot-8, 190), Funkhouser (6-1, 190) and Brewer (6-1, 190) will welcome Central High School transfer RB-LB Cody Polk (5-11, 215), also playing his final scholastic season. “He can help us,” said McHale. Otherwise the coach will depend on returning center-defensive tackle Adam Vadell (6foot, 270) to go with junior quarterbackdefensive back Dade Carroll. Carroll played behind departed QB Brady Hepner in 2014, but the signal-caller appeared in a victory over Broadway.
He saw with his own eyes the team was fit.
Now, the Colonels must remain healthy. “If we don’t we’ve got to put someone in there who’s not as big and not as experienced,” said the coach. Again, McHale staples are running the ball
OL-LB Donald Mellott and QB-LB Peyton Miller. “As always, we’ve got to stay away from injuries. We have a chance to be successful,” McHale said.
22 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
MILLBROOK PIONEERS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Pioneers looking for winning formula By Kevin Green WINCHESTER — Josh Haymore, head coach of the Millbrook High School Pioneers, said the team’s motto for the upcoming season is “just win.” The Pioneers went 3-7 overall and 0-4 in the Northwestern District last season, following a promising 2-0 start. “A lot of it comes down to winning and losing,” Haymore said. “I want these guys … to be very successful, and I’d like to get to the playoffs.”
Skyline’s Brandon Walters tips and misses a pass as Millbrook’s Nazeeh Johnson intercepts during their game last season in Front Royal.
Over the course of their final eight games, the Pioneers dropped close decisions against Fauquier, Skyline and James Wood.
2015 PIONEERS • Coach: Josh Haymore (third year, 5-15) • Offense/Defense: Multiple/Multiple • Key returnees: QB Mark Paxton, RB/DB P.K. Kier, RB/LB Trequan Baylor, WR/DB Nazeeh Johnson, RB/LB A.J. Brandon • Key losses: K Tyler Gray, OL/DL Aaron Seal, WR/DB Ryan Hartigan, WR/DB Christopher Oates, TE Colin Benner
Rich Cooley/Daily file
Against Skyline, the Pioneers lead 3-0 before falling 7-3 to the Hawks on a late touchdown pass.
consecutive points and failed to convert a late 2-point conversion attempt.
Millbrook met a similar fate last “Losing seven out of the last eight October in a 21-20 loss to the James kind of got to us,” Haymore said. “I Wood Colonels. The Pioneers lead 14- think this year the guys are going for 0 at halftime, but surrendered 21 more of a team aspect. I think the
guys are closer as a team.” Haymore said, “Last year, we didn’t finish a lot of our games. I think this year, they’re learning that … we’re competing every single day in practice.” PIONEERS, 25
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263869
MILLBROOK PIONEERS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
23
2014 RESULTS (3-7, 0-4 NORTHWESTERN)
Aug. 28 at Jefferson (W.Va.), 7 p.m. Oct. 2
Rock Ridge, 7 p.m.
Aug. 29 beat Broadway, 39-36
Sept. 4
Skyline, 7 p.m.
Sept. 5 beat Hedgesville (W.Va), 73-6 Oct. 10 lost to Jefferson (W.Va), 26-17
Sept. 11 at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 23
at James Wood, 7 p.m.
Sept. 12 lost to Kettle Run, 55-24
Oct. 24 lost to James Wood, 21-20
Sept. 18 at Kettle Run, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
Handley, 7 p.m.
Sept. 19 lost to Fauquier, 29-21
Nov. 1
lost to Handley, 56-38
Sept. 25 Woodgrove, 7 p.m.
Nov. 6
at Sherando, 7 p.m.
Sept. 26 beat Chancellor, 35-14
Nov. 7
lost to Sherando, 49-7
Oct. 9
lost to Skyline, 7-3
248134e
Hedgesville (W.Va.), 7 p.m.
Oct. 3
MILLBROOK PIONEERS
24 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Millbrook senior aims to elevate his game By Kevin Green
5:00 in 2012 to 4:47 this year.
WINCHESTER — Millbrook High School senior Nazeeh Johnson is looking to make a serious splash as a senior at wide receiver and defensive back for the Pioneers. He intends to get to the next level and attend the University of Richmond next fall to play cornerback.
Going into this year, Johnson is looking to apply this speed and improved technique to the gridiron. “In high school, speed is everything,” Johnson said. “When I’m fast on both sides of the ball, they account for what I can do.”
Head coach Josh Haymore said he is expecting Johnson For Johnson, the road to this to take on more of a leaderopportunity began in his first ship role for the Pioneers this season in the Pioneers proseason. gram. Johnson said that he is tryAs a freshman, Johnson said he was encouraged to improve and get his name out there after not seeing much playing time. This also included a subpar 40-yard dash time of 5:00.
Thanks to the focus on form running and extra competition, Johnson said he was able to drop his 40 time from
For example, Johnson is stressing the weight room as well as picking up second sports as ways to improve as a player. “My last year, I emphasized to the team, we work together to win games and we can celebrate later,” Johnson said. “When we’re not, we’re com-
Rich Cooley/Daily
Millbrook’s Nazeeh Johnson could play a key part in the Pioneers’ success this season. team’s mindset and its inten- 11 hats to the ball, every time.” sity, especially on defense. Johnson said that he thinks “Last year, when we had a that he and the team benefittackle, a lot of people were ed from head coach Josh walking to the ball,” Johnson JOHNSON, 25 said. “This year, you see all
peting for spots. I don’t even have my spot right now,” Johnson said. “And that keeps us on our toes.” Johnson noted that he has seen a difference in the
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After that, Johnson said he joined the Millbrook track and field team, competing in events such as the 100-meter and 200-meter dash as well as the long jump.
ing to teach the younger players in the Millbrook program some of the lessons that he has picked up on through his four years of trial-and-error.
MILLBROOK PIONEERS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Pioneers Continued from 22
Similar to the previous season, the Pioneers left the comforts of Winchester for the first three days of camp. This season, they went to Shenandoah Valley Academy in New Market.
2014 STATS • Record: 3-7, 0-4 Northwestern • Passing leader: Mark Paxton (30 for 61, 514 yards, 5 touchdowns, 4 interceptions) • Rushing leader: P.K. Kier (84 carries, 560 yards, 10 touchdowns)
[camp] this year,” Haymore said. “Once we got back to To spice up practice this Winchester, the distraction of year, Haymore devised comWinchester did not affect us.” petition periods to pit the The Pioneers are returning players against each other in 10 seniors this season and team, individual and situawill look to build off of expetional drills designed to up rience and a familiarity withthe ante in terms of competiin Haymore’s system. tion. “I think our offense and “If we have 3rd and 8, the defense fit our kids and we number one offense will be gotta keep running that … up. If they get two out of because our kids understand three [conversions], the it, they know it,” Haymore defense has got to do upsaid. downs,” Haymore said, adding that it works the same if the defense wins the drill. “I wanted to see them learn football. I wanted to see them see and get used to what it feels to win,” Haymore said. “We were more of a team when we rolled through
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Pioneers are also looking for major contributions from offense threats in junior running back P.K. Kier and senior wide receiver Nazeeh Johnson. “I’m looking for them to be leaders. They gotta be leaders, they gotta know they plays, they gotta know the
Johnson Continued from 24
Haymore’s inclusion competition periods at this year’s camp. “It helped me a lot, because I love competing ever since I ran track,” Johnson said. Johnson said, “For me, when I compete for my position, it just makes me feel a lot better … so I know when I go home and go to sleep, I know I did everything I could.” On top of that, Johnson said that he feels like the team is more of a family this season compared to previous years.
• Receiving leader: Ryan Hartigan (14 catches, 422 yards, 4 touchdowns)
25
2015 ROSTER No.
Name
Ht.
Wt.
Pos.
Year
1
Edward Kier
5-10
205
RB/LB
Jr.
3
Trequan Baylor
5-8
190
RB/LB
Sr.
4
Jack Mannarino
5-6
165
WR/DB
Jr.
5
Nicholis Harrell
5-10
180
WR/LB
Jr.
• Interceptions: Jason Albert (4)
6
Ryan Arnold
5-10
200
TE/LB
Jr.
formations and they gotta know everything,” Haymore said.
7
Antwon Rodgers
5-11
170
WR/DB
Jr.
8
Elijah Doyle
5-8
220
FB/DL
Sr.
9
Taylor Bruce
6-0
180
WR/LB
Jr.
He added that, for Kier and Johnson, “it’s not just about defense,” since both players have dual roles as offensive weapons and defensive players.
10
Kevin Valyear
6-0
180
WR/DB
Jr.
11
Cameron Faint
5-9
165
WR/DB
Jr.
12
Tyler Ratliff
5-9
180
RB/LB
Jr.
13
Gabriel Neaverth
5-11
185
WR/LB
Jr.
14
Jayden Johnson
5-11
185
OL/LB
So.
“They gotta be key players on defense. They can’t just be guys that are out there and take up space,” Haymore said.
15
Mark Paxton
6-1
185
QB/DB
Sr.
16
Cody Roy
6-2
200
QB/DL
Jr.
17
Hunter Shaw
5-9
160
WR/LB
So.
18
Tanner Ames
5-9
170
WR/LB
So.
Millbrook opens up the season on the road against Jefferson High School Cougars on Aug. 28, before returning to Winchester for their home opener against the Hedgesville High School Eagles on Sept. 5.
19
Ethan Swaim
5-9
165
WR/LB
So.
20
Matthew Hershberger
6-2
180
K
Sr.
21
Joshua Davis
5-10
165
WR/DB
Jr.
22
Nazeeh Johnson
5-10
185
WR/DB
Sr.
23
Savon Smith
5-9
155
WR/DB
Fr.
25
Dakota Koenig
5-10
185
RB/LB
Jr.
30
Thomas Blackstone
6-0
195
RB/LB
So.
Contact staff writer Kevin Green at 540-465-5137 ext. 155, or kgreen@nvdaily.com
32
Jake Mihill
5-10
200
RB/LB
Sr.
33
Michael Brandon
5-8
195
OL/DL
Sr.
40
Brandon Shingleton
5-9
175
WR/LB
So.
45
Myles Bruce
5-11
180
OL/DL
So.
51
Joshua Gaddy
5-10
205
OL/DL
Jr.
52
Kesean Brown
5-10
200
OL/DL
Jr.
53
Dillon Hanna
6-0
220
OL/DL
Sr.
6-0
180
OL/DL
Jr.
• Tackles: Dylan Lee (92) • Sacks: A.J. Brandon (8)
“We help each other out with problems that we have at home. We’re so close,” he said, noting that he believes the team got close “as a family” through these threeday camps.
54
Dwayne Shank
Johnson said he thinks this close bond will in-turn fire the team up once it hits the field today against the Jefferson High School Cougars.
55
Kevin Yang
6-1
190
OL/DL
Sr.
56
Nicholas Campbell
6-1
215
OL/DL
Jr.
57
Richard Egloff
6-0
200
OL/DL
Jr.
Although Johnson and the rest of the seniors have yet to experience a winning season, he hinted at big things for the Pioneers.
65
Tyler Russell
6-0
215
OL/DL
Sr.
68
Jared Hawthorne
5-10
210
OL/DL
Jr.
72
Ryan McMurray
6-1
275
OL/DL
Jr.
75
Ronald May
6-2
280
OL/DL
Sr.
“We have a very big surprise for our opponents,” Johnson said.
76
Lorenzo Guzman
5-10
320
OL/DL
Sr.
78
Joshua Vanderhoof
6-2
275
OL/DL
Jr.
Contact staff writer Kevin Green at 540465-5137 ext. 155, or kgreen@nvdaily.com
81
Adam Brynda
6-1
220
TE/DL
Jr.
85
Demarco Brown
6-2
220
TE/DL
Jr.
26 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
SHERANDO WARRIORS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Returners, newcomers ready to lead Warriors the key to our offense is to have interchangeable parts. So when one goes STEPHENS CITY — Sherando lost a lot from down, then ‘whose the next best player I got,’ last year’s team, but it also has plenty of pieces and you plug him in.” returning and some new That mentality is part of what has made faces ready to take on Sherando a successful new roles. football program, Sherando coach Bill including a trip to the Hall said he wants to put the best 11 guys out Group 4A state final two years ago. on the field, regardless
least five players will see some time, including D.J. Myers, Cordell Peterson and Dylan Rivers who had a combined 297 yards last season.
The Warriors return Patrick Minteer at quarterback. Last year Minteer threw for 1,740 “I think we have good yards, 25 touchdowns numbers. We just have to keep competing, mak- and three interceptions. Things are a little ing sure everybody can unsettled at running be interchangeable,” Hall said. “I think that’s back, where Hall said at
Last season the Warriors ran LeeQuan Johnson 295 times, but Hall said having several backs split time could help keep all of them fresh and gives them the ability to run different types of plays.
of positions, so it’s important for everyone to know the offense.
2015 WARRIORS • Coach: Bill Hall (13th year, 105-35) • Offense/Defense: Pro, multiple/4-3 • Key returnees: QB Patrick Minteer, TE/LB Dylan Rivers, RB/DB Cordell Peterson, OL/DL David Eppard, OL/LB KeʼVon Doleman, OL/DL Kyle Warren, OL/LB Ben Avery • Key losses WR/DB Adam Whitacre, WR/DB Josh Ojo, RB/DB LeeQuan Johnson, RB/LB John Doleman, OL/LB Trent McCarty, TE/LB Brogan McPartland
Warren and Quayvon Doleman. Avery and Warren each started on the defensive line for Sherando for the last two years, and Doleman saw playing time there last year.
“I think obviously situational football will dictate a lot of whose in the scheme in what situation,” Hall said. “But all five are options.” Rich Cooley/Daily file
“That should be a real strength for us,” Hall said. “We’re going to play more odd [defensive fronts] than even [defensive fronts] this year.”
Sherando’s Cordell Peterson breaks a tackle Rivers, a junior who from James Wood’s Dillon Manuel on his way for has already received 13 a touchdown during their contest last year in Division I scholarship Stephens City. offers, leads the group of linebackers. Tyler and David Eppard is showing some promTinsman, Mitchell return on the offensive ise in his first year Shiley, Eppard and line. playing football. Garrett Poole will also “Options are a good Hall said Ben Avery, There will be a slew of see playing time at the thing as long as they’re other players battling Ke’Von Doleman and spot according to Hall. meeting their expectafor playing time as well, Hector Montalvo lead a “The talent is there,” tions and the standard group of players vying and Hall said competiHall said of the linethat we set for them,” for playing time at the tion at the spot should backers. “It boils down Hall said. other offensive line bring out the best in to those guys doing spots. Hall said the Warriors everybody. their job and executing. have some battles going The 6-foot-3 225-pound One of Sherando’s If everybody does their strengths this year on at wide receiver. Rivers will replace the job then good things could be on the defenJacquari Hayes returns graduated Brogan happen.” sive line where the McPartland at tight from last season, and WARRIORS, 29 end, while Kyle Warren Warriors return Avery, Hall said Joey Weaver
250873e
By Tommy Keeler Jr.
SHERANDO WARRIORS
2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 at Louisa County, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2
at James Wood, 7 p.m.
Sept. 4
Oct. 16
Handley, 7 p.m.
Sept. 11 at Washington (W.Va), 7 p.m. Oct. 23
Fort Hill, 7 p.m.
Sept. 18 Eastern View, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
at Skyline, 7 p.m.
Sept. 25 at Jefferson (W.Va), 7 p.m.
Nov. 6
Millbrook, 7 p.m.
Martinsburg (W.Va), 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
27
2014 RESULTS (9-3, 4-0 NORTHWESTERN) Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3
beat Musselman (W.Va), 33-24 lost to Martinsburg (W.Va), 26-0 beat Washington (W.Va), 60-7 beat Kettle Run, 24-7 beat Jefferson (W.Va), 38-14 lost to Liberty, 28-14
Oct. 10 Oct. 18 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 14 Nov. 21
beat James Wood, 44-7 beat Handley, 43-29 beat Skyline, 28-19 beat Millbrook, 49-7 beat James Wood, 48-0 lost to Liberty, 35-24
248135e
The Northern Virginia Daily
28 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
SHERANDO WARRIORS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Minteer is ready to lead Sherando this season By Tommy Keeler Jr.
those two seasons.
STEPHENS CITY — Things are different for Sherando senior Patrick Minteer this season.
“I learned how to be confident [from Entsminger],” Minteer said. “He was always smiling and jacked up. He was just calm in the worse situations.”
The quarterback was a little nervous as he took the reins last season, but this year he feels more comfortable and ready to lead the team. A big part of that is being more comfortable as a leader.
His father John coaches running backs and linebackers for Sherando, but Minteer said he doesn’t go to him for a lot of coaching advice.
“I’ve definitely become more of a leader so I can bring my varsity experience to the guys that don’t have it,” Minteer said. “I think just having that and being around the program a lot more than I have in the past, with the noRich Cooley/Daily excuse mentality, I think it defiSherando quarterback nitely has built me up more as a Patrick Minteer threw for leader to my teammates. over 1,700 yards last “...I feel more confident. I feel season. The senior is like I just know the game better eager to lead the Warriors from the standpoint of I’ve had to another strong year. the experience and I’ve lived it and tied a school record with 24 and so now I can just relax and just do what I’ve been coached to touchdowns and to top it off he had only three interceptions. do.” The fact that Minteer could be better than last year should scare opponents considering his gaudy numbers in his junior season. Minteer threw for 1,740 yards
“He’s more of an emotional director than coach itself,” Minteer said of his father. “At home he helps with my emotions and stuff that goes through my head.” Minteer admitted he was very nervous for his first game last season, but once he began to have success it felt great and got easier to handle. Sherando coach Bill Hall said Minteer is a coach’s dream.
“He’s a model in terms of what you’re looking for in a quarterback, in terms of his work ethic and preparation,” Hall said. “...He’s a student of the game so He was the junior varsity starter he understands what we’re trying his freshman and sophomore sea- to accomplish with what we’re sons and said he learned a lot doing. He works hard in the off watching Sherando graduate Reid season, in terms of developing his Entsminger run the varsity team body physically, but also develop-
ing his skill set from a quarterback position.”
“Ever since the first time I stood at the top of the steps as a freshman to my last game as a senior One of the things that really I’m always going to look down and helps Minteer on the field is his dedication to watching game film. see the lights and still be awed. It’s just that those little things He tries to watch as much film really mean a lot to you. When I as he can on himself and his oppo- graduate it’s definitely something nents throughout the season, that I’ll really miss a lot.” which helps make him even better The Warriors went 9-3 last year, on the field. losing in the second round of the “I always try to watch it, see my Group 4A playoffs to Liberty. In mistakes and my accomplish2013 the Warriors lost in the ments,” Minteer said. “Even the Group 4A state final, and Minteer older games, even the first game said the seniors this year want to last year. You go back and watch model themselves after some of some of those things, and why you the seniors from that team. did those reads and why you did “We don’t talk a lot about last certain things and still apply it to season, it’s more of two years ago your game today. I still watch when we went to the state final, Reid [Entsminger] sometimes, because there’s still some guys especially running the ball and here that were on that team,” how he scrambled and stuff like Minteer said. “We use [some of the that. That’s always been a chalpast seniors] as examples because lenge for me.” they were great leaders and great Minteer said he wants to make leaders by example. They just did the most of his senior season, and the things you were supposed to enjoy everything about it. do. Now some of us are trying to He said it’s an amazing feeling apply that to some of the younger coming down the steps and enter- guys that don’t understand it — ing Sherando’s Arrowhead that weren’t part of that team.” Stadium before a game, and a feel- Contact staff writer Tommy ing he won’t forget. Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, “It never gets old,” Minteer said.
or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
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SHERANDO WARRIORS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Warriors
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
29
2015 ROSTER No.
Name
Ht.
Wt.
Pos.
Yr.
No.
Name
Ht.
Wt.
Pos.
Yr.
2
Travis Ferraro
6-0
170
WR/DB
Sr.
38
Joseph Barrington
5-5
155
RB/LB
Sr.
In the secondary, Ke’Von Doleman and Cordell Peterson return for the Warriors. Hall said that a group of players including Collin Painter, Weaver, Hunter Entsminger, Travis Ferraro and Hayes will be vying for time in the defensive backfield.
3
Patrick Minteer
5-10
185
QB/DB
Sr.
40
Russell Simmers
5-5
155
TE/LB
Jr.
4
Isaac Prock
5-5
135
WR/DB
Jr.
42
Jacob Sites
6-2
170
WR/DB
Jr.
5
Aaron Banks
5-11
150
WR/DB
So.
44
Brandon Teets
5-11
185
TE/DL
Sr.
7
Dylan Rivers
6-3
225
TE/LB
Jr.
45
Ryan Pellath
6-0
185
LS
Sr.
8
Hunter Entsminger 6-0
165
QB/DB
Fr.
47
Garrett Poole
6-0
170
RB/LB
Sr.
Hall said there is also some competition going on in the kicking game as Rivers, Minteer and Joseph Doleman could be sharing some of the punting duties. He said that Jack Sites and Brandon Teets are battling for the placekicking spot.
9
Michael Perry
6-2
190
WR/LB
So.
50
Jesse Heishman
5-11
195
OL/DL
Jr.
10
James Tinsman
5-11
190
TE/LB
Sr.
53
David Eppard
5-10
200
OL/DL
Sr.
12
Collin Platts
5-8
155
WR/DB
Sr.
54
KeʼVon Doleman
5-11
230
OL/LB
So.
14
Collin Painter
5-8
160
WR/DB
Sr.
55
Kyle Warren
6-2
240
OL/DL
Sr.
16
Lucas Barbe
6-0
185
QB/DB
Jr.
56
Zachary McCarty
5-9
180
OL/DL
So.
17
Jacquari Hayes
6-0
155
WR/DB
Jr.
20
Joseph Hammer
5-10
160
WR/DB
Jr.
58
Isaiah Allen
5-10
230
OL/LB
Fr.
22
Daryl Myers
5-11
165
RB/DB
Sr.
65
Benjamin Avery
6-0
285
OL/LB
Sr.
2014 STATS
23
Quayvon Doleman 6-1
170
WR/DB
Sr.
66
Aaron Grim
6-0
205
OL/LB
Sr.
• Record: 9-3, 4-0 Northwestern
24
Forrest Limon
5-9
150
WR/DB
Jr.
70
Jose Guevara
6-0
275
OL/LB
Jr.
• Passing leader: Patrick Minteer (110 for 177, 1,740 yards, 24 touchdowns, 3 interceptions)
25
Mitchell Shiley
5-11
200
RB/LB
Sr.
71
Hector Montalvo
6-0
200
OL/LB
Jr.
26
Nicholas Beazley
5-9
180
RB/DL
Jr.
73
Brandon Viera
5-11
175
OL/LB
Jr.
• Rushing leader: LeeQuan Johnson (295 carries for 1,524 yards, 23 touchdowns)
28
Edward Weaver
5-10
165
WR/DB
Sr.
74
Zachary Orrison
5-11
220
OL/LB
Jr.
29
Brandon Parrill
5-5
140
RB/DB
Jr.
75
Zachary Mele
6-3
240
OL/LB
So.
30
Joseph Doleman
6-1
185
TE/LB
Fr.
77
Samuel Johnson
6-4
260
OL/DL
Jr.
32
Nathan Wagner
5-7
140
WR/DB
Jr.
81
Isaiah Armistead
6-3
210
TE/DL
Sr.
• Sacks: Brogan McPartland (19.5)
33
Cordell Peterson
5-11
170
RB/DB
Jr.
85
Christopher Moquin 6-2
175
TE/LB
So.
• Interceptions: John Doleman (4)
35
Trenten Pangle
5-6
165
RB/DB
Jr.
88
Ethan Eddinger
195
TE/DL
Jr.
Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
• Receiving leader: Adam Whitacre (22 catches for 442 yards, 7 touchdowns) • Total tackles: John Doleman (95)
5-11
263881e
Continued from 26
SKYLINE HAWKS
30 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Hawks seek new leaders after large roster turnover offense this fall.
By Brad Fauber
“His preparation last season was excellent,” Gilbert said of Hamman. “He really didn’t just pout about it. He put himself in a good position to be successful this year.”
FRONT ROYAL – Following the graduation of 19 seniors from last season’s roster, there’s no shortage of obstacles facing Skyline High School’s football team in 2015.
Hamman will have some experience around him. Senior Jay Roy (28 catches, 254 yards, two touchdowns in 2014) and junior Aaron Tasker (26 catches, 268 yards) return at receiver this fall, and Skyline’s biggest strength overall could be its offensive line.
There is the matter of replacing the production lost from a total of eight players who earned AllNorthwestern District/All-Conference 28 recognition. There is the challenge of filling those voids with young, The Hawks, who averaged an area-best 330 yards per Rich Cooley/Daily file inexperienced players who are often untested at the game last year, return four starters up front in Pingley varsity level, and maintaining the chemistry the Hawks Skyline Coach Heath Gilbert speaks to his team and Justin Hayes – two All-Northwestern District/Allduring a contest against Millbrook last year in built up last season after the extreme roster turnover. Conference 28 honorees – and Zack Atkins and Austin And perhaps most importantly for Skyline, it’s seeking Front Royal. Scott, four seniors who average 242.5 pounds. Max leaders. There are some players who have already passion in your heart can make up for a lot of that stuff. Meador, a 6-foot-4, 255 pound junior, completes an offenseized that important role, head coach Heath Gilbert … This team is trying to get there and they’re learning sive line that Gilbert said he will be “banking on” this said on Aug. 17, but the Hawks need more. to get there. It’s taking a little bit of time and we’re tak- fall. ing steps every day.” “We had some excellent emotional leaders last year,” Gilbert said junior Brad Halsey, a transfer from 6A said Gilbert, who led the Hawks to a Region 3A East The Hawks expected growing pains early in practice, Westfield High School, has emerged as Skyline’s top playoff appearance in 2014. “That’s a big part of playing and they experienced them – “We have a lot to learn,” running back and is a “lightning in a bottle-type kid,” football, especially if you are overmatched sometimes senior Joey Norman admitted midway through fall while seniors Ryan Abel and Antwan Swain will work with numbers or maybe size – emotion and desire and camp – but Skyline senior lineman Joe Pingley said the at tight end. approach has been simple. Defensively, Roy, a cornerback, is the lone regular • Coach: Heath Gilbert (ninth year, 43-42) • Offense/Defense: Multiple-I/4-2-5 • Key returnees: WR/DB Jay Roy, WR/DB Aaron Tasker, WR/DB Brandon Wells, OL/DL Joe Pingley, OL/DL Justin Hayes, OL/DL Zack Atkins, OL/DL Austin Scott, RB/LB Keith Sanker, FB/LB Joey Norman • Key losses: QB Corban Ruch, WR/DB Jamal Parker, OL/DL Ronnie Clifton, RB/DB Jerrius Baltimore, FB/LB Darryl Jordan, TE/DL Gerren Butler, RB/DB Hunter Partlowe, OL/LB Bradley Carson
“We come out here to work every day,” Pingley said. “Got to have the focus and mentality to work hard and get some games won, get to the playoffs. The key right now is to do what we can.”
starter returning from a unit that limited opponents to 184.2 yards per game in 2014, and the Hawks will need players to step up after losing the top six tacklers to graduation.
The Hawks entered fall camp in better shape on the offensive side, although Skyline will be breaking in a new quarterback after Corban Ruch – last season’s Conference 28 Offensive Player of the Year – transferred to nearby Randolph-Macon Academy.
Gilbert said Swain – who returned to the football program after taking last season off – and Atkins were bright spots on the defensive line midway through camp, and a handful of players will compete for playing time up front with the emphasis on building depth.
Senior Dylan Hamman, who served as Ruch’s backup last year, will take the reins of the Hawks’ multiple-I
“My whole goal is hopefully to have five (offensive) HAWKS, 33
GO SKYLINE HAWKS! Invite us in…we’ll bring results
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240355
2015 HAWKS
SKYLINE HAWKS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Central, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 9
at Millbrook, 7 p.m.
Sept. 4
Oct. 16
James Wood, 7 p.m.
Sept. 11 at Brentsville, 7 p.m.
Oct. 24
at Handley, 1 p.m.
Sept. 18 at Manassas Park, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
Sherando, 7 p.m.
Oct. 2
Nov. 6
Warren County, 7 p.m.
Broadway, 7 p.m.
John Champe, 7 p.m.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
2014 RESULTS (7-4, 3-1 NORTHWESTERN) Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3
beat Warren County, 31-7 lost to Fauquier, 23-9 beat Brentsville, 23-20 beat Manassas Park, 34-7 lost to Kettle Run, 27-0 beat Millbrook, 7-3
Oct. 10 beat Washington (W.Va), 34-21 Oct. 17 beat James Wood, 42-14 Oct. 24 beat Handley, 35-28 Oct. 31 lost to Sherando, 28-19 Nov. 15 lost to Hopewell, 24-21
Front Royal Federal Credit Union TWO LOCATIONS TO BETTER SERVE OUR MEMBERS! Financially Strong Since 1949 230 N. Royal Avenue • 113 South Street Skyline Hawks
31
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540-635-7133 • www.frontroyalfcu.org 240353
SKYLINE HAWKS
32 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Roy brings veteran presence to youthful Hawks By Brad Fauber FRONT ROYAL – When asked about the state of Skyline High School’s football team early in fall camp, senior Jay Roy glanced over his shoulder at a group of teammates circled up for a post-practice stretch on the school’s practice field and sighed.
Skyline’s Jay Roy catches the ball during a practice.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do,” Roy said. “We’ve got a lot of young boys out here.” Youth and inexperience were expected to be an obstacle for the Hawks in 2015 after losing 19 seniors to graduation. There are obvious holes to fill as Skyline aims to replace its starting quarterback, top three rushers, leading receiver and top six tacklers from a season ago. That makes Roy’s job all that more important this fall. As one of the few Hawks with varsitylevel playing experience, he automatically inherits a veteran leadership role. And that’s fine with him.
Rich Cooley/Daily
don’t like to run, they don’t like to do the extra work. We try to stay after [practice] a little bit, catch some passes and stuff. You’ve just to do the extra work.” The 2015 season marks Roy’s fourth as a member of Skyline’s varsity team, and the third year he can expect significant playing time as a starter for the Hawks and head coach Heath Gilbert.
Last season Roy, a receiver in the Hawks’ multiple-I offense, caught 28 passes – a mark good for second on the team – for 254 yards and a pair of touchdowns. “I want to be a leader this year,” As a cornerback on defense, he he said. “I want people to follow tallied 17 total tackles and after me. I want to get them right. snagged three interceptions. “We’ve just got to push them and keep pushing them. People
seniors a season ago, offering an experienced presence on that side of the ball that Gilbert said the Hawks “sorely need.” “He has a positive attitude about himself, which is good,” Gilbert said. “That’s what you need to have. You need to believe in your own ability. He can tackle, which is a great thing. He’s just not a corner that’s going to go and cover, which he can do, but he’s physical. He’s a physical guy. When we go through our tackling drills out there you hear him pop.”
At 5-foot-8 and nearly 180 pounds, Roy entered Skyline’s camp about 20 pounds heavier than a year ago, an unintentional Roy is the lone returning starter result of his offseason workouts. “I was in the weight room a lot,” on a defense that featured 10
Roy said. “I didn’t plan to get this Having a reliable receiver in the short passing game will be big but it just happened.” important for Skyline – at least Not that Roy is complaining about the extra bulk. Aside from early on – as senior Dylan Hamman settles into his role as the obvious benefits his added the Hawks’ new starting quarsize could bring on the defensive terback. Gilbert said the abilities side of the ball, he expects to be of Roy and junior Aaron Tasker able to break more tackles on (26 catches, 268 yards in 2014) offense this season, a bonus for a to make plays for Hamman will receiver who catches most of his be “crucial” for the Hawks. passes underneath the coverage “Number one, Jay being the of opposing defenses. leader is the most important Skyline will be looking for a thing,” Gilbert said. “We undernew deep threat in the passing stand that if we don’t stay game with the graduation of together and stay strong and Jamal Parker, who averaged have a good core of leaders that nearly 27 yards per catch in make sure we’re all on the same 2014, but with speedsters path that things can go sour Brandon Wells and Marcus fast. So we lean on guys like Jay Burke vying for that role, Gilbert to make sure that our team expects to continue to use Roy as stays in the right direction.” the Hawks’ underneath threat. So far, that’s exactly what Roy is trying to do. “He’s almost like a running back,” Gilbert said. “He’s got “People get along with him realgood lateral movements, so get- ly well. And they follow him,” ting him the ball quick and letGilbert said. “If Jay is working ting him so some things works hard, other guys are going to work hard. And he knows that but he did catch some seam routes a couple times for touch- and he pushes himself to make sure that’s what this group is downs [last season]. We’ll put doing.” him in situations where he can challenge that but we play him Contact staff writer Brad in a position where it’s more Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com underneath.”
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Hawks Continued from 30
linemen and four defensive linemen because we like to do a couple things with tempo and we’re not going to be able to do that if we’ve got guys going both ways,” Gilbert said. “We wanted to do it last year but just couldn’t because the guys were two-way players.” Norman (39 tackles in 2014) and fellow senior Keith Sanker are expected to start at inside linebacker, Gilbert said, while the outside linebacker spots were still up for grabs entering Skyline’s final preseason scrimmage on Aug. 20 with Jacob Carson, Tucker Fortney and Daniel Guizar in the mix. In the secondary, Roy (two interceptions in 2014) and Tasker will man the cornerback spots, while senior Brandon Wells will play safety along with Steven Timbers. Senior Marcus Burke will also be in the mix at defensive back, Gilbert said. “We feel good about our
33
2015 ROSTER
2014 STATS • Record: 7-4 (3-1 Northwestern District) • Passing leader: Corban Ruch (111 for 210, 1,685 yards, 20 touchdowns, 10 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Jerrius Baltimore (143 carries for 781 yards, 5 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Jamal Parker (35 receptions, 940 yards, 15 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Darryl Jordan (100) • Sacks: Ronnie Clifton (8) • Interceptions: Jamal Parker (4)
secondary guys having experience and being back there,” Gilbert said. Senior A.J. Dueweke will retain his kicking duties and will handle the punting as well this season, Gilbert said. Skyline, which lost to Hopewell in the first round of the playoffs last year, opens its 2015 season with a road contest at Central at 7:30 p.m. today. Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
AWKS H ! GO
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
No. Name
Pos.
Ht.
Wt.
Yr.
No. Name
Pos.
Ht.
Wt.
Yr.
1
Brad Halsey
RB/DB
5-9
142
Jr.
33
Keith Sanker
RB/LB
5-8
185
Sr.
2
Chandler Heard
K/P
5-11
204
Sr.
36
Phillip Clark
TE/DL
5-11
210
Sr.
3
Marcus Burke
WR/DB
5-10
155
Sr.
40
Spencer Scriva
RB/LB
5-7
140
So.
4
Ryan Scott
QB/LB
6-2
175
So.
42
Seth Gilespy
RB/LB
6-0
165
Jr.
5
Aaron Tasker
WR/DB
5-8
160
Jr.
43
Jacob Carson
RB/LB
5-9
155
Sr.
6
David Cressell
QB/DB
5-8
150
Jr.
44
Matt Hartzell
TE/LB
6-0
176
Jr.
7
Quentin Diggs
RB/DB
5-10
166
So.
45
Joey Hugo
WR/DB
5-8
165
Sr.
8
Steven Timbers
WR/DB
5-9
175
Jr.
47
Parker Stover
TE/DL
6-1
195
Jr.
9
Brandon Wells
WR/DB
6-2
174
Sr.
48
Hunter Grigsby
TE/DL
6-0
210
Sr.
10
Jake Clingerman
WR/DB
5-6
108
Jr.
50
Darrien Roy
OL/DL
6-2
245
Jr.
11
Louie Garcia
WR/DB
5-11
155
So.
12
DaʼQuan Fisher
RB/LB
6-0
195
Jr.
52
Anthony Moore
OL/DL
5-6
196
Jr.
13
Trenton King
WR/DB
5-6
142
So.
54
Justin Hayes
OL/DL
6-1
265
Sr.
14
Kyle McHugh
RB/DB
5-7
155
So.
55
Brandon Pyle
OL/DL
5-10
220
Jr.
15
Iziah Hogan
WR/DB
5-9
155
Sr.
56
Alan Shaffer
OL/DL
5-6
240
Sr.
16
Dylan Hamman
QB/DB
6-0
155
Sr.
57
Justin Jenkins
OL/DL
5-11
175
So.
17
McQuire Shuck
WR/DB
5-8
140
So.
58
Max Meador
OL/DL
6-4
255
Jr.
18
Bailey Smeltzer
WR/DB
5-11
140
So.
59
Zack Atkins
OL/DL
6-1
210
Sr.
19
Matt Rutherford
WR/DB
5-9
125
Jr.
60
Cedric Ausberry
OL/DL
6-1
267
Jr.
20
Tucker Fortney
RB/LB
6-0
170
So.
61
Nick Jodan
OL/DL
6-0
185
So.
21
David Denton
FB/DL
5-5
202
Jr.
63
Austin Scott
OL/DL
5-11
230
Sr.
22
Brad Murray
WR/DB
5-8
150
Jr.
66
Joe Pingley
OL/DL
6-4
265
Sr.
Hunter Layman
OL/DL
5-8
228
Sr.
OL/DL
6-3
295
Jr.
23
Brody Jones
WR/DB
5-8
140
So.
74
24
Daniel Guizar
RB/LB
5-11
145
Jr.
77
Stephen Leach
25
Ryan Abel
TE/DL
6-3
210
Sr.
80
Cooper Lowe Jr.
QB/DB
5-7
127
So.
A.J. Dueweke
K/P
6-2
162
Sr.
WR/DB
6-0
166
Jr.
25
Jay Roy
WR/DB
5-8
180
Sr.
81
27
Seraphina Bowdy
K/P
5-4
140
So.
84
Jaylen Kilby
28
Blake Daniels
FB/LB
5-10
185
Jr.
86
Tyler Compton
TE/DL
6-1
190
So.
30
Dylan Judd
TE/DL
6-3
185
Sr.
88
Antwan Swain
TE/DL
6-2
210
Sr.
32
Joey Norman
FB/LB
5-11
187
Sr.
89
Leon Bradshaw
TE/DL
6-0
185
Jr.
k c u L Good Season!
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34 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
STONEWALL JACKSON GENERALS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Rich Cooley/Daily file
Stonewall’s Coy Wilkerson (57) looks up for the ball as Page County’s Jacob Day prepares to hit the ground on a pass play during their game last season in Quicksburg.
First-year coach Goode, Generals eager for season 2015 GENERALS • Coach: Jay Goode (First year) • Offense/Defense: Wing-T/4-4 • Key returnees: RB/LB Ryan Summers, QB/DB Nathan Miller, OL/DL Jacob Helsley, WR Michael Knauff, LB Jacob Murphy, OL Coy Wilkerson, OL Graciel Tapia • Key losses: RB/LB Derrick Smith, OL/DL Phillip Mallow, LB Matthew Murphy
By Tommy Keeler Jr.
the Generals to have some depth.
QUICKSBURG — Stonewall Jackson has a new head coach in Jay Goode and also a reason for optimism as it gets ready for a new season to kickoff.
Senior quarterback Hayden Miller (18 for 43 for 148 yards) is back and Goode said he’s done a good job of running the new Wing-T offense.
Goode said of Summers. “He runs the ball hard, has a great attitude.”
The Generals will also be looking for some big plays from running backs Kyle Cowart and Cole Holsinger, both of whom are playing Goode said that junior Ryan varsity football for the first The Generals have 62 playtime. ers combined on their varsity Summers will be one of the starting running backs that Senior Knauff is back at and JV teams, according to the team will be relying on. wide receiver. Last year he Goode. There are 36 on the “He’s a good, hard worker,” led the Generals with stats. varsity, which should allow
“He’s just a great kid,” Goode said. “He’s a great student, from what I’ve heard. He’s a hard worker in practice, a good weight-room kid.” Goode said that Wyatt Estep and Chris Williams have also shown some real promise at wide receiver. Wade Banks and Caleb Fauver are battling for the tight end spot. On the offensive line, GENERALS, 37
STONEWALL JACKSON GENERALS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
35
2014 RESULTS (1-9, 1-6 SHENANDOAH DISTRICT)
Aug. 28 Strasburg, 7 p.m.
Oct. 9
Wilson Memorial, 7 p.m.
Sept. 4
Oct. 16
at East Rockingham, 7 p.m. Sept. 5 lost to Central, 38-6
Oct. 17 lost to Buffalo Gap, 42-22
Sept. 11 Parry McCluer, 7 p.m.
Oct. 23
Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m.
Sept. 12 lost to Clarke County, 55-8
Oct. 24 lost to Riverheads, 56-22
Sept. 25 at Page County, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
at Riverheads 7 p.m.
Sept. 26 lost to Stuarts Draft, 35-20
Oct. 31 lost to Luray, 41-0
Oct. 2
Nov. 6
Luray, 7 p.m.
Oct. 3
at Central, 7:30 p.m.
at Stuarts Draft, 7 p.m.
Aug. 29 lost to Strasburg, 34-0
Oct. 10 lost to East Rockingham, 49-0
lost to Wilson Memorial, 62-0 Nov. 8
beat Page County, 42-0
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36 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
STONEWALL JACKSON GENERALS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Versatile Miller excited for senior season
Under new coach Jay Goode, the Generals will be looking to throw the ball more and that has Miller excited.
By Tommy Keeler Jr. QUICKSBURG — Nathan Miller was in shock at how many players came out for Stonewall Jackson’s varsity football squad this season.
“It’s going to help me out a little more with accuracy and knowing my receivers for my senior year,” Miller said.
“It was breath-taking to say the least,” Miller said. “…[36 on the varsity] That’s the most we’ve had since my freshman year. I was shocked. I was so happy. Some new faces, some old faces just moved up. A lot of new kids just came out — and that’s good — to give it a try.”
Miller has also played on the defensive side of the ball for the Generals. He plays in the secondary and Goode said he likes what he’s seen from Miller on defense. “He breaks well on the ball,” Goode said. “Since he’s a quarterback he knows the offense well. He can see things like a pro-formation or a trips-formation. So he understands that from being a quarterback, which helps him as a defensive player as well.”
Miller was there last year when the school had only 18 come out for the first day of practice and there were some doubts as to whether they would even field a team. He has also been there the last three years to see losing season after losing season. With so many kids on the squad this year, Miller has good reason to feel hopeful this year can be different.
Miller, a three-sport athlete, said he is also trying to be more of a leader this season for his team. He said he knows it will be tough leaving Stonewall Jackson at the end of the high school year.
“It motivates us a lot,” Miller said of the last three years. “[The last] three years we have gone through losing skids, not really winning a lot of games. We’re kind of hungry for it. It would be nice to win a few more, just to build [the program] back up. Just make it better for future kids to come up and play in Little League and whatnot, and build the whole program up.” Miller has played on varsity for the last four years, playing at different positions. He played at quarterback and running back in his freshman season, and only played at running back and wide receiver in his sophomore year. Last year Miller moved to quarterback full-time. Before the season started the Generals were supposed to go to a triple-option offense, but were unable to actually use it during the season due to the low number of players on the team. Miller said he was disappointed
“My last year in all sports is coming up, and it’s tough I don’t want to give it up,” Miller said. “Basically what I’m trying to do is have a good season, an enjoyable season regardless of record, regardless of score of the games. Just basically improve the Stonewall legacy [and try to restore it to] how it was back in the ’90’s when it was really good football.”
Rich Cooley/Daily
Stonewall’s Nathan Miller walks onto the field during a recent practice. with that because he was looking forward to being able to run the ball on the option more. This year the Generals will be running out of the Wing-T formation, which will give Miller the chance to run some as well.
“I like being able to run with the ball and scramble,” Miller said. “If something goes down the drain I’m ready to take off.”
While Miller said he’s not setting too high of goals for the season, he said he believes the team can earn some respect this year. “I just want to turn things around for the program and surprise some people,” Miller said. “I don’t think people should overlook us to be honest with you. I think we should be a tough opponent.”
The Generals didn’t throw the ball Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler much last year. Miller completed 18 at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or of his 43 pass attempts for 148 yards. tkeeler@nvdaily.com
STONEWALL JACKSON GENERALS
2014 STATS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
2015 ROSTER
• Record: 1-9, 1-6 Shenandoah
No.
Name
Ht.
Wt. Yr.
No.
Name
Ht.
Wt. Yr.
• Passing leader: Nathan Miller (18 for 43, 148 yards, 7 interceptions)
1
Michael Knauff
5-11
149 Sr.
54
Dylan Smith
6-0
175 Jr.
• Rushing leader: Derrick Smith (162 carries for 1,088 yards, 11 touchdowns)
5
Dan Tamas
5-8
162 Jr.
55
Cody Baker
6-0
259 Jr.
10
Brendan Hoover
5-9
129 So.
57
Coy Wilkerson
5-10
207 Sr.
11
Jake Kagey Jr.
5-9
158 So.
58
Graciel Tapia
5-9
254 Sr.
• Sacks: N/A
12
Brandon Lewter
5-9
146 So.
60
Bryant Schultz
5-10
174 So.
• Interceptions: Derrick Smith (1)
15
Nathan Miller
6-0
161 Sr.
62
James Stunkle
5-5
191 Jr.
19
Tyler Patton
5-11
166 Jr.
63
Dakota Baker
5-10
209 So.
20
Jacob Murphy
5-7
166 So.
68
Alexander Owens
5-8
180 Sr.
22
Logen Patton
5-7
151 So.
69
Drew Binion
6-1
239 So.
24
Cole Holsinger
5-8
145 Jr.
70
Dakota Bush
6-1
239 So.
28
Dylan Vann
5-11
164 Jr.
72
Kyle Bushong
5-11
244 So.
30
Duncan Schroeder
5-11
156 Jr.
73
James Withrow
5-10
228 So.
33
Ryan Summers
5-8
156 Jr.
77
Lucas Semones
6-2
244 Sr.
35
Caleb Fauver
5-10
166 So.
78
Jacob Helsley
6-3
294 Sr.
40
Chad Morse
4-11
85
So.
79
Zakari Hottle
5-9
180 So.
41
Kyle Cowart
6-2
165 Sr.
81
Chris Williams
6-1
170 So.
44
Jonathan Murray
6-0
175 Sr.
82
Jonathan May
5-11
159 Sr.
50
Chance Stroop
5-9
233 Jr.
85
Matt Estep
5-10
148 Jr.
51
Allan Barb
5-7
164 So.
88
Wade Banks
6-5
179 So.
52
Joshua Lantz
5-5
150 So.
99
Alexander Galindez 5-8
• Receiving leader: Michael Knauff (13 catches for 178 yards) • Total tackles: Jacob Murphy (60)
Generals Continued from 34
Dakota Bush, Graciel Tapia, Jacob Helsley and Drew Binion are expected to lead the way. Binion, a sophomore, set a school record in squat weightlifting, Goode said.
we’re going to be pretty deep at defensive line,” Woods said. “We’re still working out who our starters are going to be.” James Stunkle, Coy Wilkerson, Jacob Murphy and Summers will be seeing playing time at linebacker, Woods said. In the secondary, Woods said Knauff will be one of the guys they rely on along with Brendan Hoover.
“He’s got a lot of promise,” Goode said. “He’s still young, but really down the road, two years from now, he could pos- “Hoover is only a sophomore. He’s young, not the sibly be a college prospect. biggest guy, but he’s very He’s got a lot of tools to be smart, very football savvy,” really good.” Woods said. Binion, Tapia, Helsley and Miller, Jake Kagey and Dylan Smith are expected to Holsinger are also expected get a lot of playing time on to battle for playing time in the defensive line, said Stonewall Jackson defensive the secondary. coordinator Jimmy Woods. Gooder said that Williams “Right now we look like
will be the punter, while
37
Wilkerson will be the place kicker. The Generals were known for not trying extra points under former coach Dick Krol, but Goode said he
142 Jr.
take it for granted, but we He also said he believes spe- really stress it here in practice.” cial teams are important. Contact staff writer Tommy “I feel like that’s such a major part of football,” Goode Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. said. “A lot of coaches kind of 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com believes in trying PAT’s.
247235e
The Northern Virginia Daily
STRASBURG RAMS
38 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Rams search for identity heading into 2015 season
“You hear that a lot, ‘What are you going to do without them?’” Rams senior Austin Schlentner said recently. “But we heard it a lot when
2014 RAMS • Coach: Mark Roller (eighth year, 35-40) • Offense/Defense: Pro-I/5-3 • Key returnees: RB/LB Justin Carr, RB/LB Adam Miller, WR/DB Trevin Howard, WR/DB Austin Schlentner, OL/LB Josh Pritchett, OL/DL Rashon Alsberry, OL/DL Ryan Jenkins • Key losses: QB Mark Smoot, TE/DL Ryan Smoot, WR/DB Noah St. Clair, RB/LB Colton Funk, OL/DL Joe Giallonardo, OL/DL Aaron Lozado, OL/DL Jay Gomez
With a roster consisting of 15 seniors, many who gained valuable playing time in 2014 and bring a veteran presence to this year’s squad, the potential is there for the Rams in 2015. The issue, head coach Mark Roller said midway through fall camp, has rested in the program finding its own identity in the wake of losing a strong contingent of leadership. Roller said on Aug. 17 that this year’s team possesses the “we should be able to be as good as last year” mindset, but he added that the team’s collective work ethic had yet to reach the required point if Strasburg hopes to at least match last season’s firstround appearance in the Region 2A East playoffs.
Rich Cooley/Daily file
Strasburg head coach Mark Roller talks to his players in a game against Clarke County last season.
the potential to be pretty good,” Roller said of Strasburg’s returning varsity experience, which includes a handful of juniors in addition to the senior core. “… We’re not there yet but I think everything’s there to get the “It’s a good core to build around. Those guys, they have things done that we need to
get done. It’s just a matter of how they want to do it.”
2015, where Strasburg returns six starters from last season and should be more comfortable in its 5-3 base.
With new faces set to reside at quarterback, running back, Junior Hunter Riley is the wide receiver and tight end, only returning starter on the consensus among the Rams midway through camp Strasburg’s five-man defenwas that the team’s strength sive front that will include RAMS, 43 will rest on the defense in
260505
STRASBURG – Members of Strasburg High School’s football program have heard the question. What will the Rams look like in 2015 after the graduation of eight seniors from last year’s playoff team, many of whom played key roles in the program over the last couple of seasons?
Trenton (Davis) and Jonathan (Kloosterman graduated in 2014) and we just came back and you’ve got to listen to the coaches and work hard. Us seniors are real big with being involved with them and the biggest thing is the camaraderie and teamwork.”
260505
By Brad Fauber
STRASBURG RAMS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 at Stonewall Jackson, 7 p.m. Oct. 9 East Rockingham, 7 p.m.
Oct. 16
Sept. 11 Riverside, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 23
Sept. 18 at James Wood, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
Oct. 2
Nov. 6
George Mason, 7:30 p.m.
39
2014 RESULTS (7-4, 6-1 BULL RUN)
at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. Aug. 29 Sept. 5 Warren County, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Madison County, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 26 Central, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10
beat Stonewall Jackson, 34-0 at East Rockingham, 42-14 lost to James Wood, 40-20 lost to Clarke County, 30-14 beat William Monroe, 31-26 beat George Mason 30-25
Oct. 17 beat Manassas Park, 36-7 Oct. 24 lost to Madison Co., 36-30 Oct. 31 beat Warren County, 36-28 Nov. 7
beat Central, 30-29
Nov. 14 lost to King William, 37-12
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40 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
FOOTBALL 2015
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FOOTBALL 2015
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
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FOOTBALL 2015
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Proud to Support Our Area Teams — Have a GREAT Season!
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STRASBURG RAMS
42 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Alsberry expected to anchor Rams’ offensive line in 2015
Rich Cooley/Daily
Strasburg’s Rashon Alsberry puts on his helmet as he heads to the huddle during a recent practice.
experience behind him, Alsberry has as good a grasp on that mindset as he’s ever STRASBURG – Rashon had. Alsberry understands Alsberry remembers being nervous when he stepped onto that his role as an offensive the football field for that first lineman comes with little glory and he possesses the day of practice for Strasburg High School’s JV squad as an toughness required to fend off eighth grader four years ago. defensive linemen for four quarters, Rams head coach That’s not all that surprisMark Roller said, two attribing, really, considering that utes necessary for the position Alsberry was about to partici- and reasons Roller expects pate in his first season of Alsberry to be the “anchor” on competitive football. Strasburg’s line in 2015. Working as an offensive line- “I think he has those qualiman since his inaugural sea- ties,” Roller said. “He’s a big son in 2011, Alsberry learned guy, he moves well and he quickly that it takes a certain blocks well. So we’re looking mentality to play at the fore- for big things from him this front of any offensive attack. year and hope that he can There isn’t much room for lead those guys down there.” nervousness when you’re As the only senior offensive fighting off opposing defenses. lineman with varsity experi“You’ve got to be like you’re ence to break camp with a in a dogfight. I think of it as a starting spot, Alsberry’s leadkiller mentality,” Alsberry ership and experience – as said before a recent football well as that of third-year practice. “You’ve just got to go starting center Josh Pritchett out there and just don’t think and returning starting tackle of anything else. Just put it Ryan Jenkins – will be paraall out there. It’s a battle in mount for a Rams’ line that the trenches.” will be expected to handle a Now a senior, and with a full lot of responsibility this fall. season of varsity starting
Strasburg’s offense will fea-
ture new faces in the backfield after the graduation of quarterback Mark Smoot and running back Colton Funk. With an inexperienced quarterback and senior Justin Carr and junior Adam Miller both having limited varsity action at running back, Strasburg’s success at both positions this fall will begin with the play of the offensive line. Last season, Alsberry, Pritchett and Jenkins helped pave the way for a Rams offense that averaged 306.5 yards per game, including 109.2 yards on the ground. “It doesn’t matter how good of a running back you have or how good of a quarterback you have, if those guys [the offensive line] can’t get the job done then you don’t go anywhere,” Roller said. “… It’s important to have those guys back and being able to produce and open some holes.” Alsberry, who saw most of his playing time at guard last season, said Strasburg’s inexperience at the skill positions ALSBERRY, 43
247237e
By Brad Fauber
STRASBURG RAMS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2014 STATS • Record: 7-4 (6-1 Bull Run District) • Passing leader: Mark Smoot (150 for 259, 2,171 yards, 26 touchdowns, 8 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Colton Funk (166 carries for 999 yards, 8 touchdowns)
• Receiving leader: Ryan Smoot (38 receptions for 494 yards, 10 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Colton Funk (77) • Sacks: Jason Gomez (2) • Interceptions: Austin Schlentner (4), Noah St. Clair (4)
2015 ROSTER
Rams
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
43
linemen in Alsberry, Pritchett (center) and junior Ryan Jenkins. Roller said he expects the offensive line, which will also feature Neff, Riley and Christian Plaugher, to be a strength for an offense that will break in new starters at the skill positions.
edge” over Bowers in the competition after the Rams’ first preseason scrimmage on Aug. 15.
Offensively, the Rams return five starters, including three
spot in camp, and Roller said Duckworth had a “slight
Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
Alsberry
responsibility this season by becoming more of a presence in the weight room during the offseason, Roller said.
impact on defense in 2015, as he could see some time at defensive tackle if his conditioning gets to the point where he can effectively play both ways.
Continued from 38
tackles Rashon Alsberry and Paul Bragg and ends Christian Neff and Dylan Campbell, but three linebackers and two defensive backs bring starting experience for the Rams.
Last season, Mark Smoot passed for 2,171 yards and 26 touchdowns.
“Whether or not we throw as much as we did last year, Howard returns at receiver that’s still to be determined,” after hauling in 30 catches for Roller said. “I think with the Senior Justin Carr and jun- 683 yards and six touchdowns guys we have up front we last season and will be joined ought to be able to run the iors Adam Miller and Josh Pritchett – the latter two each at the position by program ball a little bit more.” veterans Schlentner and had 58 tackles in 2014 – all Roller said Carr and sophoreturn to man the three line- Steed. Carr – who started at more Jacob Knapp will share backer spots, while seniors fullback in 2014 – will split kicking duties while Pritchett Trevin Howard (two intercep- carries with Miller at running will likely punt for the Rams tions last season), Schlentner back this fall, Roller said. this fall. (four interceptions in 2014) Sophomore Austin Miller will and Tyrik “Papoose” Steed Strasburg, which lost at start at tight end, a position will lead the secondary. home in the first round of the used heavily in the passing game last season when Ryan Region 2A East playoffs to “It’s definitely a strength,” King William last season, Smoot led the Rams with 38 Miller said of Strasburg’s opens its 2015 campaign with catches for 494 yards and 10 defense. “That’s what we’re a road game against county probably going to have to rely touchdowns. rival Stonewall Jackson at 7 on, hopefully hold teams Juniors Ethan Duckworth tonight. down so we don’t have to and Ryan Bowers competed score as many points.” Contact staff writer Brad for the starting quarterback
No.
Name
Pos.
Ht.
Wt.
Year
1
Dylan Campbell
WR/DE
6-0
150
Jr.
3
Trevin Howard
WR/DB
5-9
155
Sr.
5
Trevor Taff
WR/DB
5-8
130
Jr.
7
Ethan Duckworth
QB/LB
6-0
180
Jr.
9
Ryan Bowers
QB/RB/DE 5-8
175
Jr.
11
Austin Schlentner
WR/DB
5-10
155
Sr.
21
Joshua Miller
WR/DB
5-8
135
Jr.
23
Jordan Stump
WR/DB
5-10
160
Sr.
25
Corie Baker
RB/LB
5-5
180
Sr.
27
Jacob Knapp
RB/DB
6-0
155
So.
29
Adam Miller
RB/LB
5-10
155
Jr.
37
Justin Carr
RB/LB
5-7
165
Sr.
43
Dillen Tomblin
RB/DE
5-7
165
Jr.
45
Joshua Pritchett
RB/LB
5-9
215
Jr.
49
Michael Laing
WR/DB
5-10
145
Sr.
53
Shawn Hamp
OL/DL
5-11
230
So.
54
Austin Summerlin
OL/DL
5-8
170
So.
56
Quentin Elliott
OL/DL
5-7
220
So.
57
Jason Gomez
OL/DL
5-5
160
Sr.
Continued from 42
58
Connor Keane
OL/DL
6-3
230
Jr.
59
John Williams
OL/DL
6-0
225
Jr.
60
Paul Bragg
OL/DL
5-10
200
Jr.
62
Ian Alsberry
OL/DL
5-9
190
So.
64
Christian Neff
OL/DE
5-9
155
Sr.
this season will likely put some pressure on him and the rest of the offensive line, but he added that the linemen can’t worry about the things they can’t control.
68
Zachery Scott
OL/DL
5-11
225
Jr.
69
Hunter Riley
OL/DL
5-9
285
Jr.
70
Ryan Jenkins
OL/DL
6-0
240
Jr.
71
Christian Plaugher
OL/DL
5-9
165
Sr.
74
Caleb Warren
OL/DL
6-1
245
Jr.
75
Jacob Stephens
OL/DL
5-7
160
Sr.
76
Rashon Alsberry
OL/DL
5-10
270
Sr.
77
Tyler Brill
OL/DE
6-1
210
Sr.
81
Tyrik Steed
WR/DB
5-9
155
Sr.
83
Damion Howard-Wolford
WR/DB
5-8
135
Sr.
85
Austin Miller
TE/LB
5-11
175
So.
87
Zachary Baker
TE/DE
6-0
160
Sr.
Alsberry, who weighed about 270 pounds one week into fall camp (he was listed at 235 pounds last season), said he was in the weight room “almost every day” during the summer.
But no matter where he’s at on the field, Alsberry will be looked at as a leader for Strasburg in 2015, a role that “Coach [John] Schaffstall Roller said the senior has tells us not to worry about “He’s done a fairly decent job already embraced. anybody else. Just do what “He’s kind of garnered that of working over the summer, we’ve got to do and then hopebeing in the weight room and leadership ability of taking fully the skill players [do control and saying hey, I’m kind of trying to lead those what they need to do],” the senior lineman, I’m the guys,” Roller said. “I have Alsberry said. “And I have one that’s in charge and seen that much more this confidence in them. I think they’re going to follow me,” year than in years past. He they will do it. They’ll pull out Roller said. “That’s kind of has been active as far as on their end and we’ll just what he’s done so far.” encouraging those younger pull out on our end.” guys and trying to get them to Contact staff writer Brad Alsberry has helped make sure the Rams’ offensive line move forward.” Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. is prepared to handle its Alsberry could also make an 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
WARREN COUNTY WILDCATS
44 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Wildcats looking to build on late-season momentum By Tommy Keeler Jr. FRONT ROYAL — Warren County started off slow last year, but once it got things rolling the Wildcats finished strong. They won four of their last five regular season games and made the playoffs. The Wildcats will look to build on that momentum with a slew of returning players who gained valuable experience last season. Senior Robert Rutherford threw for 715 yards on 60 for 103 passing after taking over as starter from Cam Ford during the season. Warren County coach Steve Crist said he’s shown improvement. “He developed as last year went along and really improved,” Crist WILDCATS, 47
2015 WILDCATS • Coach: Steve Crist (Second year, 4-7) • Offense/Defense: Multiple/4-2-5 • Key returnees: QB/DB Robert Rutherford, RB/DB Joseph Rutherford, WR/DB Cameron Ford, RB/LB Randall Harris, WR/LB Rhett Tierney • Key losses: RB/DL Will Spencer, OL/DL Zach Moon, WR/LB Eric Baker, WR/DB Tristan Ward, TE/DL Cody Vaughn, OL/DL Connor McMackin
!
WILDCATS GO
Rich Cooley/Daily file
Central’s Aaron Crowder, left, and Brandon Braithwaite prepare to hit Warren County’s quarterback Robert Rutherford as he runs for a big gain during their game last season in Front Royal.
k c u L Good Season!
GO WILDCATS!
Good Luck Wildcats!
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WARREN COUNTY WILDCATS
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 Handley, 7 p.m.
Oct. 9
Sept. 11 James Wood, 7 p.m.
Oct. 16
Sept. 18 at Brentsville, 7 p.m.
Oct. 23
Sept. 25 Madison County, 7 p.m.
Oct. 30
Oct. 2
Nov. 6
at Central, 7:30 p.m.
William Monroe, 7 p.m.
Aug. 29 Sept. 5 at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12 George Mason, 7 p.m. Sept. 26 at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 3 at Skyline, 7 p.m. Oct. 10
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
45
2014 RESULTS (4-7, 4-3 BULL RUN) lost to Skyline, 31-7 lost to Brentsville, 36-0 lost to James Wood, 36-0 lost to William Monroe, 28-12 lost to Clarke County, 28-6 beat Manassas Park, 23-7
Oct. 17 beat George Mason, 20-14 Oct. 24 beat Central, 24-6 Oct. 31 lost to Strasburg, 36-28 Nov. 7
beat Madison County, 28-14
Nov. 14 lost to James Monroe, 49-0
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46 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
WARREN COUNTY WILDCATS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Caison’s experience key for Wildcats By Tommy Keeler Jr. FRONT ROYAL — Quay Caison can still remember what it was like making his first varsity start at Warren County in his sophomore year and walking onto the field for that first play.
expect, and just to have a guy that’s stayed with it. A guy that you know has been through the battles and is tested, and is going to be ready to play week in and week out.” The 6-foot-2 340-pound Caison said he started playing football as an eighth grader for Warren County’s junior varsity team. He said his main goal was to make the varsity team the next year, which he accomplished.
“It was breathtaking,” Caison said. “I walked out with that helmet and heard all those people cheering for me for the first time — looking up in the stands and seeHe said he learned a lot his ing it packed in there. It’s freshman year, just watching like “Friday Night Lights” – you can’t get enough of it. It’s the older guys played ahead of him on the depth chart. amazing. I loved it.” “It was an unreal feeling, Caison, now a senior, has being up there with all the made plenty of starts since big dudes and you’re just then on the offensive line, that one little guy there,” and that could come in handy Caison said. “Being up there this year. and to see what it’s like to The Wildcats lost several actually hit at the varsity starters from the offensive level, getting hit at the varsiline, and Casion’s leadership ty level — it’s a big change should be valuable to the from JV. It was a good expeteam. rience too, because I learned a lot from it and I’m thankful “It’s key,” Warren County Rich Cooley/Daily I did.” head coach Steve Crist said of Caison’s experience. “Just Warren County’s Quay Caison will be a leader on the offensive line for the Wildcats this CAISON, 48 season. to let them know what to
260383
LETS GO WILDCATS!
WARREN COUNTY WILDCATS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Wildcats
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
47
2015 ROSTER
Continued from 44
No.
Name
Ht.
Wt.
Pos.
Yr.
No.
Name
Ht.
Wt.
Pos.
Yr.
6-2
175
QB/DB
Sr.
44
Mason Blauvelt
5-10
200
RB/DL
So.
5-11
180
TE/DE
Sr.
1
Robert Rutherford
said. “He had a great offseason even though he plays multiple sports, which I love, He’s in the weight room. He got stronger and just really showed a lot of leadership throughout the offseason.”
2
Joseph Rutherford 5-9
160
RB/DB
Sr.
45
Tylor Hindman
3
Daniel Spangler
5-10
170
WR/LB
Sr.
50
Harmon Sisk
5-10
180
RB/DL
So.
4
Connor Jost
5-8
130
WR/DB
So.
51
D.J. Almarode
6-0
215
OL/DL
So.
5
Josh Butler
5-11
155
WR/LB
Sr.
52
Jared Anderson
5-11
200
OL/DL
So.
Rutherford’s brother, Joseph, is expected to be one of the top runners for the Wildcats. Joseph Rutherford ran for 531 yards on 97 carries and had four touchdowns.
6
Tyler Katron
5-9
140
TE/DE
So.
53
Dakota Harvey
5-10
205
OL/DL
So.
7
Marqwon Haley
6-1
160
WR/DB
Jr.
54
Jimmy Villatoro
5-10
155
WR/DB
So.
8
Ben Vogt
5-8
155
WR/DB
So.
55
Tyler Mallow
6-0
185
OL/DL
So.
9
Parker Meltvedt
5-8
155
WR/DB
So.
60
Carmen Smith
5-7
125
WR/DB
So.
12
Jacob Cornwell
5-11
140
QB/DB
Jr.
62
Ryan Bolden
5-7
165
RB/LB
So.
13
Cameron Ford
5-9
140
WR/DB
Jr.
14
Destin Waller
6-0
180
WR/LB
Sr.
63
Dalton Turner
5-6
240
OL/DL
So.
15
Nathan DeMedici
6-1
180
WR/LB
Sr.
64
Jack Kilgallen
5-10
215
OL/DL
Jr.
20
Michael Carter
5-8
135
WR/DB
So.
65
Cameron Pilkins
5-7
125
WR/DB
So.
21
Jacob Dunn
5-8
160
WR/DB
Sr.
66
Josh Breeden
5-9
210
OL/DL
Sr.
22
Cody Williams
5-6
155
RB/DB
So.
68
Derek Figgins
6-2
200
OL/DL
Sr.
23
Josh Edwards
5-8
175
TE/LB
So.
71
Brandon Glass
6-0
155
RB/DB
So.
24
Randall Harris
5-9
185
RB/LB
Sr.
72
Hugo Nunez
6-0
235
RB/LB
Sr.
25
Brett Dickerson
5-8
155
RB/DB
So.
74
Quay Caison
6-2
340
OL/DL
Sr.
30
Darren Frantz
5-7
150
RB/DB
So.
75
Ben Werner
5-11
225
OL/DL
Jr.
31
Marcus Adams
5-7
130
WR/DB
So.
76
Jonathan Shipe
5-9
210
OL/DL
Jr.
Ethan Palmer
5-8
230
OL/DL
So.
Crist said they will try to use multiple backs to keep everybody fresh. Ford is one of the top returning receivers. After moving from quarterback to wide receiver last year, Ford finished with six catches for 65 yards and one touchdown. Crist said Marqwon Haley will be another factor in the receiving game. Cris said that the Wildcats could go seven or seven deep at receiver this year, giving Robert Rutherford plenty of options. Two of those options could be tight ends Brendan McMackin (6-foot-4, 180 pounds) and R.J. Keeney. One of the key spots for the Wildcats this year will be the offensive line. Warren County lost some players from last year to graduation, but Zach Smith and Quay Caison return. Crist said Will Deavers has looked really good in preseason, and the other spots were up for grabs. The Wildcats are switching their defense from a 4-4 to a 4-2-5 base formation this season. Crist said things were going well with it in the preseason, and he’s looking for some guys to step WILDCATS, 48
32
Cody Petitt
5-10
175
RB/LB
So.
77
34
Rhett Tierney
5-11
180
WR/LB
Sr.
78
Will Deavers
6-0
270
OL/DL
Jr.
35
Kolton Valencia
5-10
155
WR/DB
Jr.
79
Zach Smith
5-10
210
OL/DL
Sr.
36
Michael White
5-10
160
RB/LB
Jr.
80
Tiernan Komelasky 6-0
175
TE/LB
So.
40
Jacob Dodson
5-7
155
RB/LB
So.
82
Luke Leonard
5-10
180
TE/DL
So.
Stuart Ashley
5-9
150
K/WR/DB So.
41
Brendan McMackin 6-4
180
TE/DE
Jr.
84
42
Nick Genari
150
RB/DB
Jr.
86
R.J. Keeney
6-2
205
TE/DE
So.
43
Karl Taubenberger 5-11
170
RB/DE
Sr.
88
Greg Bourgoin
6-1
175
WR/DB
Jr.
6-0
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WARREN COUNTY WILDCATS
48 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
Wildcats
2014 STATS • Record: 4-7, 4-3 Bull Run
Continued from 47
up and do well on the defensive line. “Jack Kilgallen finished the year really strong for us last year,” Crist said. “Zach Smith should be in there. Karl Taubenberger is looking really good right now. There’s a couple others. We’ll rotate guys in and out to keep people fresh.”
• Passing leader: Robert Rutherford (60 for 103, 715 yards, 5 touchdowns, 5 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Joseph Rutherford (97 carries, 531 yards, 4 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Eric Baker (17 catches, 186 yards, 4 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Zach Moon (95) • Sacks: Zach Moon, Cody Vaughn (5)
• Interceptions: Eric Baker, Tristan With only two linebacker slots Ward (1) open, Crist said that they should have depth at the position this Handley today, and Crist said season. Cody Petitt, Rhett Tierney they face a tough schedule this and Jacob Dodson are among season. those who could see playing time “We have a chance to be pretty at linebacker. good,” Crist said. “But we’ll have “The depth chart can kind of to perform each and every Friday. fluctuate,” Crist said. “If you have We’ve got some challenging games a really good day or a really good on the schedule. We know we’ll scrimmage then you might be [at have to show up and be ready to the top].” play every Friday or it probably Crist said Josh Butler, Ford, won’t be the outcome we want. If Joseph Rutherford and Marqwon we focus on getting better every Haley are leading the way in the day, and if we work and do get secondary. Sophomore Stuart better every day we feel like we Ashley will be doing the punting can accomplish some good things.” and kicking duties. Ashley made
14 of 16 extra points last year along with two field goals. The Wildcats open up with
!
WILDCATS GO
Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
k c u L Good Season!
The Northern Virginia Daily
Caison
“I’m going to have my eyes on a bunch of [colleges] and hopefully they’ll have their eyes on me too,” Continued from 46 Caison said. “It’s the main goal. As a sophomore he was a starter I’ve always dreamed since I was a on the offensive line and began to kid about playing college ball and play some on the defensive line as with God’s help beyond that.” well. Caison also throws the discus and shot put in track and field. Last year Caison made secondHe finished sixth last year in the team All-Bull Run District and second team All-Conference 28 at Group 3A state meet in the shot offensive line, and he said that put, and said the two sports help was quite an honor for him. each other out. Casion said he enjoys watching The Wildcats started off slow last one of his running backs score a season and lost their first five touchdown after he makes a games of the season, but respondblock. He said he loves going up ed with four wins late in the year against other big, strong guys on and advanced to the playoffs. the defensive line and still openCaison said that he believes the ing that key hole for the running team will do better this year. back to run through. “I feel like we can accomplish a “I love being able to hit, being lot. I feel like our record can able to go toe to toe with somechange a lot from what it was last one,” Caison said. “But also to year,” Caison said. “We’ve had know that it’s a team effort too. If some bumps along the way, but you mess up on your man then it we’re getting them smoothed out can be your fault, but I love the now since its getting ready to be fact that when that happens you game time. We’re buckling down, can also fix it by going 10 times getting stuff done. I think we will harder on the next play.” be doing really well this year, and Caison said he loves watching hopefully we’ll surprise a lot of football on television and he tries people this year.” to learn from the pros by watchContact staff writer Tommy ing them. He said playing at the Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or collegiate level is a big goal for tkeeler@nvdaily.com him.
GO WILDCATS!
Good Luck Wildcats!
This
986A John Marshall Hwy.
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The Northern Virginia Daily
MASSANUTTEN MILITARY ACADEMY COLONELS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
49
Davis excited for first season at MMA By Tommy Keeler Jr. WOODSTOCK — Massanutten Military Academy head football coach James “Buster” Davis has known for a long time that he wanted to be a head coach. This season the former NFL player will try to help turn around an MMA program that has struggled for a number of years, and he said he’s happy with what he’s seen from his players early on. “I got coachable kids and to me that goes a long way in football,” Davis said. “... If one team is a little more talented, but you have guys that are coachable and believe in the system and know their assignment and do it 100 miles an hour that’s what you want. “I’ll take that all day over talent.” Most of MMA’s players didn’t come in until Aug. 22, leaving little time for the team to get ready for the upcoming season, which starts on Aug. 28.
Rich Cooley/Daily
Massanutten Military Academy head coach Buster Davis talks to his team in the weight room.
looking for to get the chance 2015 COLONELS to be in charge of an athletic • Coach: Buster Davis (First year) department, to be able to create the image that you want • Offense/Defense: I/4-3 society to perceive you as,” • Key returnees: RB Jake Long, RB/LB Tyler Draddy Davis said. “We want society Davis had eight players • Key losses: WR/DE Damoni Gunter, QB/DB Joshua Holt, OL/DL to know us as a champithere for the first week of Jean-Marc Hollo, OL/DL Jean-Luc Hollo onship program. It’s going to “I needed a change,” Davis practice on Aug. 10 and said take work. We’ve got work to said. “I wanted to be able to he liked what he saw from who they are. Coaching, will have this season at do.” run my own department and them. you’re always going to deal MMA will be fullbacks Jake get into the administrative Davis said that former with different personalities. Long and Tyler Draddy, both Former MMA head football role and also coaching footFlorida State head football That’s what coaching is all of whom will also see playing coach and athletic director ball.” coach Bobby Bowden and for- about, letting those personal- time on defense as well. Chris Gilliland left in early Davis has experience coach- mer Indianapolis head footities be who they are within August and the school hired Long, a senior, took over for ing at a military school so he ball coach Tony Dungy both the system. It’s the same Davis the week before pracDraddy, a junior, after he sufsaid he understands how had an influence on him and with my kids. I’ve got all dif- fered an injury midway tice started. things work at the school. his coaching style. ferent types of personalities through the season. Davis, who was a secondand backgrounds and to me He said he also knows it will “I think coach Bowden and team All-American at Florida diversity is so much a part of The players are excited to be State University and played take some work to get things coach Dungy were the same society now that it’s great to playing for Davis, especially type of coach,” Davis said. for several teams in the NFL, turned around for the footwith his NFL background. have.” “They coach their coaches said MMA was exactly what ball program. “This is the opportunity I’m and they let their guys be he was looking for. Davis Two key players that Davis COLONELS, 51 bounced around at a few schools as head football coach in Florida over the last five years, but the key element was he wanted to be an athletic director as well as football coach.
MASSANUTTEN MILITARY ACADEMY COLONELS
50 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
2015 SCHEDULE
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 ROSTER
Aug. 28 Quantico, 4 p.m.
Oct. 2
at Hargrave, 7 p.m.
No. Name
No. Name
Sept. 5
Oct. 10
Fishburne Military, 3 p.m.
2
Javon Holmes
17
Jacobb Francisco
Alexsandra Zeynalova
18
Joey McNeeley
19
Walter Matamoros
at Grace Christian, 3:30 p.m.
Sept. 11 Roanoke Catholic, 4 p.m.
Oct. 16
Randolph-Macon Academy, 4 p.m.
3
Sept. 18 Victory Christian Academy, 7 p.m.
Oct. 23
Hancock (Md.), 4 p.m.
5
Alexander Brown
20
Cameron Johnson
Sept. 24 at Covenant, 4 p.m.
Oct. 30
at Brunswick Academy, 7 p.m.
6
Elijah Sampson
21
Paul Cook
7
Jakob Long
22
Noah Yates
9
Abigail Khuen
50
Eric Wissemann
10
Bijan Mansouri
51
Nickolas Lezoff
11
Devon Lefever
52
Tyler Draddy
12
Jordan Fox
55
Chase Montieth
13
Ansar Sakin
57
Declan Franklin
14
Andrew Petersen
60
Tyler Papanicolas
Oct. 24 lost to Hancock (Md.), 53-18
15
Curtis Simpson
64
Oct. 31 beat Brunswick Academy, 28-14
16
Junzhou Lin
Radwan Elbahnasawy
2014 RESULTS (2-8, 0-4 PATRIOT) Aug. 29 lost to Quantico, 20-12
Oct. 3
Sept. 5 lost to Atlantic Shores Christian, 68-0
Oct. 10 lost to Fishburne Military, 41-14
beat Grace Christian, 54-14
Sept. 12 lost to St. Johnʼs Catholic Prep (Md.), 41-8 Oct. 18 lost to Randolph-Macon Academy, 33-6 Sept. 19 lost to Covenant, 36-8 Sept. 27 lost to Fredericksburg Christian, 50-6
The Northern Virginia Daily
MASSANUTTEN MILITARY ACADEMY COLONELS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
51
MMA’s Long looking to build on success in backfield By Tommy Keeler Jr. WOODSTOCK — Jake Long didn’t know what to expect when he was asked to fill in for Tyler Draddy at fullback halfway through last season. Despite being a little unsure of himself, Long found himself to be a natural in the backfield and finished the season strong. “When Draddy got hurt, mid-season, I found out that I was actually a lot better at running the ball than actually playing defense,” Long said. “I focused more on offense the rest of the year.” Massanutten Military Academy’s Jake Long performs a squat in the weight room at the Woodstock military school.
Long had been playing at outside linebacker for the Colonels, but suddenly realized he had a real knack for running with the ball. He helped the Colonels to two wins in their last five games of the season. First-year MMA coach Buster Davis said that he loves Long’s bruisingstyle of running. “He’s a hard-nosed kid, one who hopefully can carry the ball 20 times a game for us,” Davis said. “He can run the ball effectively, efficiently and (he is) someone who can definitely help us create an identity.” One of the things that Davis said he likes about Long is the way he runs straight ahead and really attacks a defense. “I think the biggest thing for him is he is a kid that’s going to run north and south, he’s not a kid that’s going to run east and west,” Davis said. “So you know when he gets in that backfield he’s coming right at you.”
Colonels Continued from 49
Rich Cooley/Daily
Davis said that fits perfectly with the type of style the Colonels want to use throughout the season. “We want hard-nosed kids who are willing to get better and work hard at their craft every day. That’s the type of kids we want,” Davis said. “We have the attitude that we’re going to run the power, we’re going to run the lead. You know we’re going to run it, the question is are you going to be able to stop it? He’s that type of running back that I believe we’re going to be
able to create that out of him this year.”
like it and I’m excelling,” Long said. “I definitely feel a lot more comfortable.”
Last year was Long’s first year at MMA after transferring from Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, just outside of Philadelphia.
Long said that he is hoping to play at either a D-II or D-III college next season, preferably one with a Reserves Officers’ Training Corps program.
While he said MMA is different from After a winless season two years ago, his old school, Long said he really the Colonels responded with two wins likes it there and he is getting more last year. Long said he came from a and more used to it. strong program in Neshaminy and “I wasn’t doing too well in public was hoping for more wins last season. schools, and then I came here and I With a new coach and some players
being in the (NFL). I’m just super “I’m excited. I like the experience excited for the season to get started.” and I like what’s going on here,” Davis said. “Our goal is to win a The Colonels won two games last state championship — bottom line. year, which was an improvement over the previous couple of seasons. That’s our goal every year here.”
“I like coach Davis, he’s pretty Davis said having a little success straight forward,” Draddy said. “I like his expertise — it’s probably the last year can only help the team best thing I can get — with him this season.
Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
back from last year’s squad, Long said he believes this year’s team can be more successful. “It feels like we have a lot more potential than we did last year, so that’s good,” Long said. “Hopefully we can win a few more games.” Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
RANDOLPH-MACON ACADEMY YELLOW JACKETS
52 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Yellow Jackets optimistic about 2015 season MA’s head football When he looks out at the Yellow Jackets’ ros- coach. ter of 34 players, he sees It helps that the Yellow FRONT ROYAL – As plenty of potential. Jackets have not one, Randolph-Macon “We’re still a little thin but two, capable veterAcademy prepares for ans at the quarterback depth-wise but this is the 2015 high school probably the most high- position this fall after football season, Yellow ly skilled team I’ve had,” the arrival of junior Jackets head coach Corban Ruch, a transfer said Sullivan, who is in Frank Sullivan can’t from nearby Skyline help but feel optimistic. his ninth season as RHigh School. Ruch, who started at quarterback 2015 ROSTER the last two seasons at No. Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Skyline and was the 2 Peter Blair QB/DB 6-0 150 Conference 28 Offensive Player of the Year in 3 Drew Bendler RB/DB 5-7 145 2014, joins incumbent 4 Jeremiah Hixson WR/DB 5-10 160 starter Peter Blair, pos5 George Pitts WR/DB 5-8 152 ing Sullivan the envi6 AyebaSopreye Eke-Spiff WR/DB 5-5 125 able challenge of figur7 Kelechukwu Emeruwa WR/DB 5-10 165 ing out how to get both on the field. 8 Will Long WR/DB 5-10 167 By Brad Fauber
9
Nkeng Morfaw
WR/DB
5-7
145
11
Robert DeBerry
WR/DB
5-10
135
12
Corban Ruch
QB/DB
6-2
160
16
John Backo
QB/DB
5-8
149
21
Michael Grossman
QB/DB
5-7
115
22
Alexander Ndongo-Seh
WR/DB
5-9
165
24
Jeffrey Collins
RB/LB
5-7
155
27
Miles Gilmore
RB/DL
5-7
163
34
Gabriel Dubin
OL/LB
5-8
185
42
Alex Blell
RB/LB
5-11
155
44
Jacob Backo
OL/DL
5-7
170
47
Yilun Xie
OL/DL
6-0
155
50
Alec Fileccia
OL/DL
5-9
220
52
Tanyi Makia
OL/DL
5-11
205
53
Benjamin Hester
OL/DL
5-10
186
54
Scott Donahue
OL/DL
5-10
215
55
Gery You-Ghosal
OL/DL
5-7
251
56
Torian Gadson
OL/DL
5-8
218
66
Thomas Brewer
OL/DL
6-2
170
68
Sean McKnight
OL/DL
6-2
181
72
Dennis Ponn
OL/LB
6-1
185
75
Luel Mekonnen
OL/DL
5-9
205
77
Alexander Jung
OL/DL
6-0
225
79
Paul Miller
OL/DL
6-4
220
80
Andrew Dunkleberger
WR/DB
5-7
145
84
Joseph Leichsenring
WR/DB
5-11
135
But the talent doesn’t stop there, Sullivan said. Though R-MA lost its top two leading rushers from last season, Sullivan has been encouraged by the early competition at the running back position between senior Drew Bendler, junior Jeffrey Collins and Alex Blell. Sullivan referred to the trio as three “knuckleheads” who are “having fun every night.”
Brad Fauber/Daily
Randolph-Macon Academy quarterback Peter Blair, center, fields a snap during a drill at a recent practice in Front Royal.
es for 278 yards and two touchdowns in 2014, along with a handful of potential playmakers. Sullivan said junior Alex Ndongo-Seh has “blossomed” after remaining at the school over the Sullivan is similarly summer to work out and optimistic about the get a head start on his wide receiver position, schoolwork, while new where the Yellow arrival Kel Emeruwa Jackets return senior could be a “force to be Jeremiah Hixson, who “They’re really looking led R-MA with 13 catch- reckoned with out wide.” Whoever doesn’t earn 2015 YELLOW JACKETS the starting quarterback job between Blair and • Coach: Frank Sullivan (ninth year, 28-46) Ruch could also be used • Offense/Defense: Spread/4-2-5 as a slot receiver, • Key returnees: QB Peter Blair, WR/DB Jeremiah Sullivan added. Hixson, OL/DL Alexander Jung, OL/DL Scott Donahue, good,” Sullivan said. “You see them running the ball, they’re small and shifty but they’re also strong. It’s going to be fun if they keep this attitude up.”
OL/DL Thomas Brewer, RB/DB Drew Bendler, OL/LB Paul Miller, WR/DB Will Long, WR/DB Alex Ndongo-Seh • Key losses: RB/LB Faa Faa Eke-Spiff, RB/DB Timi Idowu, OL/DL Malik Cochrane, RB/DL Michael Ndigwe, RB/LB Austin Lee, WR/DB Tyler Vaughan, OL/DL Louis Lindsey
at R-MA with the quarterback taking snaps under center is now a spread offense run primarily from shotgun formations. “We’ll still get into some two-back stuff and get under the center but we’re running the spread to take advantage of some of those skill guys and get people out in space, and hopefully take a little heat off our offensive line,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan said he expects the Yellow Jackets to throw the football with more reguAll of those options at larity in 2015 – Blair the skill positions forced completed 23 of 56 passSullivan to restructure es for 321 yards and two R-MA’s offense in the touchdowns last season offseason. What was once a run-heavy attack R-MA, 54
The Northern Virginia Daily
RANDOLPH-MACON ACADEMY YELLOW JACKETS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
53
Blair, Ruch bring veteran QB presence to Jackets By Brad Fauber FRONT ROYAL – When RandolphMacon Academy football coach Frank Sullivan heard the school would be receiving a transfer this fall in the form of former Skyline High School quarterback Corban Ruch, the coach’s first move was to call Yellow Jackets senior Peter Blair, the team’s starting quarterback a season ago.
awesome.” With introductions out of the way, the question is which of the two veteran players will take the snaps for R-MA in 2015? “I’d rather give them both a lot of reps but I think teams only have one quarterback,” Sullivan said.
Blair has the benefit of being a familiar face in the Yellow Jackets’ offense, as he joined the program as Sullivan recalls informing Blair that a sophomore two years ago, saw spothe would enter fall camp with some ty playing time in a relief role that competition for that starting role, to season and started all nine games which Blair – having already heard last fall while completing 23 of 56 the news through social media – passes for 321 yards, two touchdowns replied, “I’m looking forward to it.” and seven interceptions in an offense built around its running game. “I didn’t even have to get another word out of my mouth and Peter Blair said he focused on getting bigsaid, ‘Coach, let’s just play football. ger and stronger in the offseason – Whoever plays quarterback plays and has a work ethic that draws quarterback,’” Sullivan said recently. praise from Sullivan – while his arm strength and accuracy have When R-MA finally did start camp improved. Blair said he’s also more on Aug. 17, you’d never know Blair comfortable in R-MA’s new spread and Ruch were in a competition to claim that coveted spot as the team’s offense, although he admitted he’s still getting used to taking snaps in a starting signal caller. The two players formed an instant bond, a quick- shotgun formation. setting friendship made obvious by “Being under the [center] and kind their interactions on the practice of a bunched offense, it felt really field. cramped when I would drop back for a pass or try to give a handoff,” Blair During a practice on Aug. 19, Blair and Ruch split the repetitions equal- said. “But the spread is real open and it feels good for me.” ly during drills. They would play a game of rock-paper-scissors to deterBlair’s transition into the new mine which one got the first attempt, offense – which features read-option were quick to exchange high fives as elements and places the quarterback they switched out and took turns in a situation to carry the football verbally encouraging their teammore often – has been aided by Ruch, mates when on the sideline. he said, who ran a similar offense at Skyline. Ruch, now at his third different high school in four years (his family moved to Front Royal from Indiana following his freshman year), seemed right at home interacting with his new teammates. “I’m good friends with all the guys,” Ruch said. “Peter’s a great guy and it’s awesome having him as a friend. All of these guys are really nice and they’ve really accepted me. I just really feel welcomed here. It’s really
“I’ve asked him questions about running the option offense because I’ve never run it before and he has,” Blair said. “I’ve been asking him questions about footwork and stuff and he’s really helpful, letting me know what to do.” Last season Ruch, a two-year starter at Skyline, passed for 1,685 yards, 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and ran for an additional
Brad Fauber/Daily
Randolph-Macon Academy quarterbacks Peter Blair, left, and Corban Ruch catch their breath following a conditioning drill at a recent practice in Front Royal. They bring a veteran presence to the Yellow Jackets’ offense this fall. 370 yards and five scores while leading the Hawks to an appearance in the Virginia High School League’s Region 3A East playoffs.
how it holds up.”
Though Sullivan called Ruch the more “polished” of the two quarterbacks, the head coach said he could Ruch, who ultimately decided to wait as long as the day prior to the transfer to R-MA because he said it Yellow Jackets’ first game on Sept. 5 offered him a better fit academically, to name a starter. The plan is to pick was named the Conference 28 one and stick with him, Sullivan said, Offensive Player of the Year last sea- although he added that both Blair son. and Ruch will see the field and whoHowever, Ruch is coming off shoulever doesn’t earn the starting nod der surgery in late December to could see time as a slot receiver. repair a torn labrum in his throwing No matter where on the field Blair arm and wasn’t cleared to return to and Ruch are playing this season, football activities until June. Blair said the goal is the same. “[I] worked all offseason trying to “Personally, just become a better footget my shoulder back into place,” ball player,” Blair said. “That’s pretty said Ruch, who was able to reclassify much what I think both of us are out as a junior at R-MA, a private school, here to do, is just become better peodespite competing as a junior at ple and better football players.” Skyline last year. “I’m doing really Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at well right now. It’s almost 100 per540-465-5137 ext. 161, or cent so I’m just really excited to see what happens during the season and bfauber@nvdaily.com
54 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
RANDOLPH-MACON ACADEMY YELLOW JACKETS
R-MA
2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 5
Continued from 52
Potomac School, Noon
Sept. 19 Fredericksburg Christian, Noon
– but establishing a consistent running game behind an offensive line that returns seniors Scott Donahue, Alex Jung and Thomas Brewer remains a priority.
Sept. 26 Hargrave Military Academy, 2 p.m.
Defensively, the Yellow Jackets return five starters, including Jung, whom Sullivan said he expects to anchor the defensive line. Junior Tanyi Makia and senior Sean McKnight are in the mix for a spot along the defensive line or at inside linebacker, Sullivan said, and the
2014
The Northern Virginia Daily
Oct. 2
at Fishburne Military, 4 p.m.
Oct. 10
Southern, 2 p.m.
Oct. 16
at Massanutten Military Academy, 4 p.m.
Oct. 23
at ChristChurch School, 4 p.m.
Oct. 31
at Blue Ridge, 2 p.m.
Nov. 5
at Covenant, 3:30 p.m.
coach has plenty of options for filling out the rest of his 4-2-5 defense with 16 players comprising the outside linebacker and defensive back groups.
said.
Ben Hester, Collins and Blell are vying for linebacker spots, Sullivan said, while Ndongo-Seh and Emeruwa will join returning starters “We tried to create a lot Hixson (36 tackles, two of competition,” Sullivan interceptions in 2014), Bendler and Will Long STATS in the secondary.
• Record: 4-5 (1-1 Patriot Conference) • Passing leader: Peter Blair (23 for 56, 321 yards, 2 touchdowns, 7 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Timi Idowu (76 carries for 501 yards, 4 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Jeremiah Hixson (13 receptions for 278 yards, 2 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Faa Faa Eke-Spiff (46) • Sacks: Peniel Okonkwo (2) • Interceptions: Tyler Vaughan (3)
Sullivan said R-MA’s overall strength could lie in its team speed. “Hopefully if offsets our lack of size,” he said. “But our overall team speed’s going to be something to deal with and I think the kids, they seem, for three days in, they have a good football
sense. They have an idea what’s going on.” When R-MA began fall camp on Aug. 17, it did so without a conference affiliation after the Patriot Conference – which shrunk to just three teams in 2014 – disbanded. Sullivan said on Aug. 19 that there were discussions amongst fellow athletic directors from Massanutten Military Academy, Hargrave Military Academy and Fishburne Military School – three teams RMA plays each season – about forming a four-
2014 RESULTS (4-5, 1-1 PATRIOT) Aug. 30 lost to Covenant, 41-28 Sept. 6 lost to Sidwell Friends, 64-6 Sept. 12 lost to Pope John Paul the Great, 39-0 Sept. 20 lost to Fredericksburg Christian, 41-14 Sept. 26 beat Hargrave Military Academy, 25-21 Oct. 3
beat Fishburne Military School, 29-23
Oct. 18 beat Massanutten Millitary Academy, 33-6 Oct. 25 lost to Blue Ridge, 54-18 Nov. 1
beat Potomac School, 47-23
team football conference as early as this fall.
game against Potomac School on Sept. 5.
The Yellow Jackets, coming off a 4-5 season, open their 2015 campaign with a noon home
Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-4655137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com
6768 Winchester Rd., Front Royal www.autocareclinic.biz
Open: Mon.-Fri. 8am-6pm
262799
Good luck R-MA Yellow Jackets!
FOOTBALL 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
55
HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Friday, Aug. 28 Quantico at MMA, 4 p.m. Strasburg at Stonewall Jackson, 7 p.m. Handley at Warren County, 7 p.m. James Wood at Heritage, 7 p.m. Millbrook at Jefferson (W.Va.), 7 p.m. Buffalo Gap at Fort Defiance, 7 p.m. Spotswood at East Rockingham, 7 p.m. Luray at Nelson County, 7 p.m. Waynesboro at Wilson Memorial, 7 p.m. Riverheads at Robert E. Lee, 7 p.m. Skyline at Central, 7:30 p.m. Sherando at Louisa, 7:30 p.m. King William at Madison County, 7:30 p.m. Page County at East Hardy, 7:30 p.m.
James Wood at Warren County, 7 p.m. Sherando at Washington (W.Va.), 7 p.m. Madison County at East Rockingham, 7 p.m. Buffalo Gap at Bath County, 7 p.m. Rappahannock County at Page County, 7 p.m. Wilson Memorial at Fort Defiance, 7 p.m. Stuarts Draft at Waynesboro, 7 p.m. Riverside at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m. Millbrook at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. William Monroe at Broadway, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 18
Strasburg at James Wood, 7 p.m. Skyline at Manassas Park, 7 p.m. Warren County at Brentsville, 7 p.m. Eastern View at Sherando, 7 p.m. MMA at Victory Christian Academy, 7 p.m. Millbrook at Kettle Run, 7 p.m. Rappahannock Co. at George Mason, 7:30 p.m. Broadway at Stuarts Draft, 7 p.m. Waynesboro at Riverheads, 7 p.m. Turner Ashby at Central, 7:30 p.m. Luray at George Mason, 7:30 p.m. Broadway at Skyline, 7 p.m. Charlottesville at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m. Martinsburg (W.Va.) at Sherando, 7 p.m. Handley at Harrisonburg, 7 p.m. Park View at James Wood, 7 p.m. Fredericksburg Christian School at R-MA, Noon Hedgesville (W.Va.) at Millbrook, 7 p.m. Clarke County at Handley, 1 p.m. Madison County at Luray, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 3 Friday, Sept. 4
Saturday, Sept. 19
Parry McCluer at Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m. Page County at Nelson County, 7 p.m. Robert E. Lee at Wilson Memorial, 7 p.m. Fort Defiance at Stuarts Draft, 7 p.m. Riverheads at Covington, 7 p.m. East Rockingham at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m. Stonewall Jackson at Central, 7:30 p.m. Manassas Park at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. Brentsville at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 5 TBA at R-MA, Noon MMA at Grace Christian, 3:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 11 Virginia Academy at MMA, 4 p.m. Fauquier at Handley, 4:30 p.m. George Mason at Sidwell Friends, 4:30 p.m. Parry McCluer at Stonewall Jackson, 7 p.m. Skyline at Brentsville, 7 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 25 MMA at Covenant, 4 p.m. Stonewall Jackson at Page County, 7 p.m. Madison County at Warren County, 7 p.m. Sherando at Jefferson (W.Va.), 7 p.m. Hedgesville (W.Va.) at James Wood, 7 p.m. Woodgrove at Millbrook, 7 p.m. Wilson Memorial at Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m. East Rockingham at Stuarts Draft, 7 p.m. Riverheads at Luray, 7 p.m. Central at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. William Monroe at George Mason, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 26 Hargrave at R-MA, 2 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 2 Fishburne at R-MA, 4 p.m. Stonewall Jackson at Stuarts Draft, 7 p.m.
John Champe at Skyline, 7 p.m. Sherando at James Wood, 7 p.m. MMA at Hargrave, 7 p.m. Handley at Jefferson (W.Va.), 7 p.m. Rock Ridge at Millbrook, 7 p.m. Buffalo Gap at Riverheads, 7 p.m. East Rockingham at Page County, 7 p.m. Luray at Wilson Memorial, 7 p.m. George Mason at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m. Warren County at Central, 7:30 p.m. Clarke County at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m. Riverside at Madison County, 7:30 p.m.
Fort Hill (Md.) at Sherando, 7 p.m. Millbrook at James Wood, 7 p.m. East Rockingham at Luray, 7 p.m. Stuarts Draft at Page County, 7 p.m. Riverheads at Wilson Memorial, 7 p.m. Strasburg at Madison County, 7;30 p.m. William Monroe at Central, 7:30 p.m. Riverside at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24 Skyline at Handley, 1 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 9
Friday, Oct. 30
Wilson Memorial at Stonewall Jackson, 7 p.m. Skyline at Millbrook, 7 p.m. William Monroe at Warren County, 7 p.m. Stuarts Draft at Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m. Riverheads at East Rockingham, 7 p.m. Page County at Luray, 7 p.m. Strasburg at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. Central at Madison County, 7:30 p.m. George Mason at Riverside, 7:30 p.m.
Stonewall Jackson at Riverheads, 7 p.m. Sherando at Skyline, 7 p.m. MMA at Brunswick Academy, 7 p.m. James Wood at Spring Mills (Md.), 7 p.m. Handley at Millbrook, 7 p.m. Buffalo Gap at Page County, 7 p.m. Wilson Memorial at East Rockingham, 7 p.m. Stuarts Draft at Luray, 7 p.m. Central at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m. Warren County at Clarke County, 7:30 p.m. Madison County at George Mason, 7:30 p.m. William Monroe at Culpeper County, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10 Loudoun Valley at Handley, 1 p.m. Southern Garrett at R-MA, 2 p.m. Fishburne at MMA, 2:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31 R-MA at Blue Ridge, 2:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 16 R-MA at MMA, 4 p.m. Stonewall Jackson at East Rockingham, 7 p.m. James Wood at Skyline, 7 p.m. Handley at Sherando, 7 p.m. Luray at Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m. Page County at Riverheads, 7 p.m. Wilson Memorial at Stuarts Draft, 7 p.m. Warren County at Strasburg, 7:30 p.m. Central at Riverside, 7:30 p.m. Clarke County at George Mason, 7:30 p.m. Madison County at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 23 Hancock (Md.) at MMA, 4 p.m. R-MA at Christchurch, 4 p.m. Stonewall Jackson at Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m. George Mason at Warren County, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 5 R-MA at The Covenant School, 3:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 6 Luray at Stonewall Jackson, 7 p.m. Warren County at Skyline, 7 p.m. Millbrook at Sherando, 7 p.m. East Rockingham at Buffalo Gap, 7 p.m. Page County at Wilson Memorial, 7 p.m. Stuarts Draft at Riverheads, 7 p.m. Strasburg at William Monroe, 7:30 p.m. Central at George Mason, 7:30 p.m. Clarke County at Madison County, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 7 James Wood at Handley, 1 p.m.
JAMES MADISON UNIVERSTIY DUKES
56 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Dukes look to build on last year’s success By Tommy Keeler Jr. HARRISONBURG — James Madison University’s football team had some success last year. The Dukes won seven straight games to end the regular season and hosted a Football Championship Subdivision playoff game for the first time in six years. However, they lost 26-21 to Liberty in the first round of the playoffs. This season the Dukes aim to accomplish even more. “We look at as it’s not good enough. We don’t want to just make it to the first round of the playoffs,” JMU linebacker and Warren County graduate Gage Steele said. “We got bigger intentions and we’re going higher places. We definitely use that as motivation from last year. We remind ourselves, but not too often. But we do want to strive for more, and we are going to strive for more.” The Dukes start the season ranked No. 12 in the STATS FCS Preseason Top 25 poll, and they are ranked No. 13 in the FCS Coaches poll. JMU’s first game is at home against Morehead State on Sept. 5. JMU quarterback Vad Lee is back for a senior season. The Georgia Tech transfer threw for a school-record 3,462 yards last season, while also being the team’s leading rusher with 826 yards. The Dukes will once again go with a fast-paced spread offense. JMU head coach Everett Withers said they will once again use a bevy of backs to keep everyone fresh in an offense that runs a lot of plays. Junior Khalid Abdullah is the top returner from last year in DUKES, 58
2015 DUKES • Coach: Everett Withers (Second year, 9-4) • Offense/Defense: Multiple/3-4 • Key returnees: OL Austin Lane, RB Khalid Abdullah, WR Brandon Ravenel, TE Deane Cheatham, DL Alex Mosley, LB Gage Steele, DB Taylor Reynolds, K Ryan Maglio, P Gunnar Kane, OL Dominick Richards, DL Xavier Gates, LB Kyre Hawkins • Key losses: OL Matt Williams, OL Eric Buchholz, OL Matt Cunningham, WR Daniel Brown, WR DeAndre Smith, DL Sage Harold, LB Titus Till, DB Dean Marlowe, RB Jauan Latney, DL Brandon Lee
Courtesy photo/JMU Athletics Communications
James Madison University’s quarterback Vad Lee looks to make a throw during a game last season. Lee threw for a school-record 3,462 yards last year.
The Northern Virginia Daily
JAMES MADISON UNIVERSTIY DUKES
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
57
Courtesy photo/JMU Athletics Communications
JMU’s defensive lineman Alex Mosley looks to make a play during a game last season. Mosley will be one of the veteran players on the defensive line this year.
Mosley taking leadership role for JMU By Tommy Keeler Jr. HARRISONBURG —Alex Mosley is aware that he had some good leaders to follow during his early years at James Madison University and now he wants to be the one leading the way. Mosley, a redshirt senior, played behind several future
National Football League players over the last few years and he said he learned a lot from them. “Jordan Stanton, Bingham Togia, Sage Harold, Tyler Snow, Brandon Lee — I learned a lot on and off the field from them,” Mosley said. “Those guys I consider my brothers. I still talk to them
time to time. Now I think it prepared me because I saw those guys, and I looked up to those guys as leaders. It kind of helped me prepare myself into the situation where I am now.” Mosley is one of only two defensive line starters returning from last year’s squad, along with Xavier Gates.
Mosley said he remembers the older guys helping him out anytime he had a problem on or off the field, and he wants to do the same for the younger guys.
always been helpful and welcoming to him since he joined the team three years ago.
“Ever since I’ve got here he’s taken me in with the older dudes,” Steele said. “I consider him a veteran — he is a veterOne of the guys Mosley has helped along the way has been an. He’ll always go his hardWarren County graduate Gage est. I can’t do nothing but take my hat off to him.” Steele. The redshirt junior MOSLEY, 58 linebacker said Mosley has
58 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
JAMES MADISON UNIVERSTIY DUKES
Dukes
The Northern Virginia Daily
2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 5 Continued from 56
the backfield, while sophomore John Miller has moved to wide receiver.
Sept. 12 Lehigh, 4 p.m. Sept. 19 Albany, 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at SMU, 7 p.m.
Juniors Brandon Ravenel and Rashard Davis are expected to lead the way at wide receiver. Ravenel Oct. 3 caught 38 passes for 535 yardsand five touchOct. 10 downs last year. Deane Cheatham, a redshirt senior, is back after missing part of last year due to injury. His injury helped give more time to Strasburg graduate Jonathan Kloosterman, who caught six passes for 91 yards. The 6-foot-3 241-pound Kloosterman has solidified himself as the No. 2 tight end in the offseason. The sophomore caught two touchdown passes in the Dukes’ first preseason scrimmage on August 18. “Kloos is doing an amazing job,” Lee said. “The coaching staff love him. I love him. The quarterbacks love him. He stepped on campus last year and made an impact, and he’s going to make a bigger impact this year.” The Dukes return several players from last year’s offensive line led by redshirt seniors Dominick Richards and Austin Lane.
Moorehead State, 6 p.m.
2014 STATS • Record: 9-4, 6-2 CAA • Passing leader: Vad Lee (282 for 465, 3,462 yards, 30 touchdowns, 7 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Vad Lee (183 carries for 826 yards, 9 touchdowns)
Stony Brook, Noon
• Receiving leader: Daniel Brown (42 catches for 606 yards, 7 touchdowns)
at Towson, 3 p.m.
• Total tackles: Kyre Hawkins (97)
Oct. 17
at Elon, 3 p.m.
• Sacks: Sage Harold (13.5)
Oct. 24
Richmond, 3:30 p.m.
• Interceptions: Dean Marlowe, Taylor Reynolds (4)
Oct. 31
at William and Mary, 4 p.m.
Nov. 14 at Delaware, 3:30 p.m. Nov. 21 Villanova, Noon Lee said that he’s excited to what the Dukes can accomplish this season. “It’s a great team. We have great chemistry on this team — both offense and defense,” Lee said. “I think communication has been big throughout the camp. The defense has been lining up correctly and doing great things and making it hard on us, and we also do a lot of things to make it hard on them. So we challenge each other every day, and it’s good competition going into the season.”
2014 RESULTS (9-4, 6-2 CAA) Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8 Nov. 15 Nov. 22 Nov. 29
lost to Maryland, 52-7 beat Lehigh, 31-28 beat Saint Francis (Pa.), 38-22 lost to Villanova, 49-31 lost to Delaware, 30-23, OT beat Albany, 31-28 beat Towson, 62-7 beat Charlotte, 48-40 beat William and Mary, 31-24 beat Stony Brook, 27-24 beat Richmond, 55-20 beat Elon, 59-27 lost to Liberty, 26-21
Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465Seniors Alex Mosley and Xavier Gates will be 5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com looking to lead the way on the defensive line, where the team should have some depth this season. said. “I’m a selfless guy. So, I “I think we have a very strong defensive line,” enjoy taking on double teams Mosley said. “Nobody’s spot is secure including and knowing that a linebacker mine. We have to realize that each and every day, Continued from 57 will scrape over top of me and which is great because competition only brings get that tackle. I think someout the best in guys. By us having that competiMosley graduated from times I might get more energy tion in practice, us seeing who can get better each Highland Springs High School, from that than they do out of the and every day, will only help us get better come just outside of Richmond, and tackle, which is a great thing.” game time.” had some playing time in his Mosley missed a few practices Steele leads a solid but young linebacking group, freshman and sophomore seain the preseason due to what he and he said he’s been impressed with some of the sons on the defensive line. called soreness in his elbow, but young linebackers. Last year Mosley started all 13 said he will be fine for the regu“They’ve done amazing,” Steele said. “...They’re games, and he had 55 tackles, lar season. catching on fast. They’re learning it. It’s very two fumble recoveries and a sack JMU head coach Everett important for them to do that. They’re taking for the Dukes Withers said that Mosley is a their roles very well, and I’m excited to see where He said his favorite part of they’re going to go with it.” valuable part of the defensive playing defense is being able to front. Redshirt junior Taylor Reynolds is the top stop the running game. returner in the secondary, where JMU lost current “He’s big, he’s strong, and when “There’s nothing like when it’s Carolina Panther Dean Marlowe to graduation. he goes hard he’s a good football me one-on-one with an offensive player,” Withers said. Punter Gunnar Kane and place kicker Ryan guard, center or tackle, and I Maglio return this year for the Dukes. Millbrook Mosley said he knows this is his know he’s coming at me and I’m graduate and JMU freshman Tyler Gray is one of coming right at him,” Mosley last season of playing at the colonly two others kickers listed on JMU’s roster.
Mosley
legiate level, and he and his teammates went to make the most of it. “You just enjoy the journey. Coach Withers talks about enjoy the journey, don’t look at it as a last ride. This is only the beginning,” Mosley said. “We’ve got some great seniors — me, Vad [Lee] Xavier Gates, Deane Cheatham Derek [Hart], Austin Lane, [Dominick] Richards. Some of the guys I came in with and just grew a strong brotherhood a strong relationship with. It means a lot to all of us. “We go at it each and every day, and we just love this game. We can’t wait to just strap it up and go at it.” Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
The Northern Virginia Daily
SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY HORNETS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
59
Hornets ‘need to get production’ in Yoder’s third year By Brad Fauber WINCHESTER – Since taking over the Shenandoah University football program in 2013, Scott Yoder and his assistant coaches have laid a foundation that has led the Hornets to flashes of success.
Aug. 16. “We understand that. … There’s no doubt in our mind that the blueprint that we put here, that we know can be successful, it’s got to start to be successful.”
The Hornets appear, at least on paper, to be set up for a shot at success in 2015 after fizzling out Entering year three, and follow- at the end of 2014. Though picked seventh in the eight-team ing a pair of 4-6 seasons, Yoder ODAC in the conference’s preseasays now is the time for son coaches poll following a 2-5 Shenandoah to take the next big showing in the league last seastep in becoming a consistently son, Shenandoah returns seven competitive factor in the Old players who earned All-ODAC Dominion Athletic Conference. recognition and plenty of start“There’s no doubt in our mind ing experience on both sides of as a coaching staff that in year the football. three we need to get production. Defensively, Shenandoah And production in our business returns 10 players who started is wins,” Yoder said following the HORNETS, 61 Hornets’ first day of practice on
2015 HORNETS • Coach: Scott Yoder (third year, 8-12) • Offense/Defense: Spread/4-4 • Key returnees: RB Cedrick Delaney, RB Kye Hopkins, WR Qlyl Middelijn, WR Deshon Brown, TE Miles Green, OL Dustin Edwards, OL Marcus Jenkins, OL Forestt McDaniel, DE Jake Payne, DT Brandon Thompson, LB Michael Messick, LB Micheal Wroble, LB Malik Sims, DB Josh White, FS Cedrick Bridges, K Jacob Newton Courtesy photo/ Keith Lucas ©Sideline Media Productions
Shenandoah’s Cedrick Bridges and Josh White battle for the ball during a game last year.
• Key losses: QB Drew Ferguson, WR Brandon Adams, WR David Bell, OL Jonathan Hudson, OL Ivan Ayala, DE Ian Griffin, LB Sean Blackman, DB David Wilburn
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60 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY HORNETS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Motivated Delaney eager to follow up on breakout season By Brad Fauber WINCHESTER – Cedrick Delaney had quite the experience in 2014. Entering his sophomore season at Shenandoah University, Delaney made the switch from slot receiver to his natural position at running back. What followed was the greatest rushing performance in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference in 2014. Delaney finished last season with 1,239 rushing yards, the top mark in the ODAC and the fourth-best individual rushing performance in all of Division III last fall. There was the school and conference record-setting performance at Emory and Henry, a game in which Delaney rushed for 321 yards and scored four times. There was the first-team All-ODAC selection at the end of the season, followed by a third-team nod on the D3football.com All-South Region team. And yet before all of Delaney’s onfield accomplishments in 2014, there came the birth of his daughter, Caidence, just days before Delaney began fall camp with the Hornets. Delaney, already eager to slide into the role as the Hornets new running back, had new fuel. “It’s a big motivation just having someone else to fight for, knowing that everything I do now is for her,” Delaney said following the Hornets’ first day of practice on Aug. 16. “That’s always in the back of my head every time I step on the field. Every touchdown, everything I do is for her basically.” When springtime rolled around, Delaney opted to skip Shenandoah’s spring practice to spend more time with his daughter – who turned a year old in August – instead using the time to rest his body after the beating he took after carrying the ball 199 times last fall.
Courtesy photo/Keith Lucas ©Sideline Media Productions
Shenandoah’s Cedrick Delaney runs past defenders during a game last year. But over the summer Delaney worked out with some former Osbourn High School teammates – some who entered the NFL draft earlier this year, he said – while focusing on refining his technique and preparing for the challenge that lies ahead of him following his breakout season. “I know I’m a target now in the conference so it’s going to be even harder for me this year but I feel like I’m up for the challenge. I’m ready for it,” Delaney said. “It’s going to make me work harder with everything I do. I like the challenge that’s ahead of me, so we’re just going to see how it plays out.”
er in order to get him on the field, a switch necessitated by the presence of former Hornets running back Andrew Smith, who was firmly entrenched in the starting role. That season Delaney caught 22 passes for “He’s shifty and can make people miss, obviously, and in the open field 325 yards and three touchdowns he’s as good as there is,” Yoder said. while seeing action in all 10 games. Even in his return to the backfield “We’ve got to find ways to get him last season, Delaney still showed off the ball and he’s not going to surhis versatility as he hauled in 24 prise anybody this year, at all. So we’re going to have to get a little bit catches – second most on the team – more creative and I think him being for 156 yards and two touchdowns. a year older and a year wiser lets us “You’ve got to find ways to get him do some other things with him.” the football,” Yoder said. “That’s one It’s hard to imagine Delaney doing of the reasons that we put him at tailback, just because that’s the easmuch more than he’s already done iest place to get him the ball.” at Shenandoah. that has already served him well at Shenandoah and earned him the title as the Hornets’ “home run threat,” according to head coach Scott Yoder.
Delaney said he actually dropped a As a college freshman in 2013, few pounds in the offseason in order Delaney – a running back at Osbourn – was moved to slot receivto gain more speed, an attribute
Delaney’s role in 2015 becomes all DELANEY, 61
The Northern Virginia Daily
SHENANDOAH UNIVERSITY HORNETS
Hornets Continued from 59
at least two games in 2014, including five who started all 10. Senior defensive end Jake Paye – a first-team All-ODAC pick last season – returns to anchor the defensive line after leading the team in sacks (6) a season ago, while seniors Michael Messick (team-high 117 tackles), Micheal Wroble (75 tackles) and junior Malik Sims (56 tackles) return at linebacker in Yoder’s 4-4 defense. Sophomore Cedrick Bridges brings starting experience at free safety, while classmate Josh White will man one of the cornerback spots after snagging a team-high five interceptions as a freshman last fall. The Hornets’ defense, which returns its top five tacklers from last season, ranked sixth in the conference in points allowed (28.6 points per game) and fifth in total yards (391.4) but did lead the ODAC in sacks (30) in 2014.
2014 STATS • Record: 4-6 (2-5 ODAC) • Passing leader: Drew Ferguson (160 for 278, 1,532 yards, 13 touchdowns, 12 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Cedrick Delaney (199 carries for 1,239 yards, 8 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Qlyl Middelijn (32 receptions for 332 yards, 1 touchdown) • Total tackles: Michael Messick (117) • Sacks: Jake Payne (6) • Interceptions: Josh White (5)
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
2014 RESULTS (4-6, 2-5 ODAC) Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8 Nov. 15
ior running back Cedrick Delaney, who led the ODAC with 1,239 yards rushing and eight touchdowns and was a first-team All-ODAC selection Sept. 5 in 2014. Senior Kye Hopkins (eight rushing touchdowns) also returns in a versatile backfield, as does top receiver Qlyl Middelijn (32 catches, 332 yards) and three starting offensive linemen in Dustin Edwards, Marcus Jenkins and Forestt McDaniel.
61
beat Gallaudet, 20-0 lost to Frostburg State, 20-10 beat Ferrum, 45-20 lost to Bridgewater, 27-23 beat Guilford, 47-31 beat Catholic, 24-14 lost to Hampden-Sydney, 45-27 lost to Randolph-Macon, 47-23 lost to Emory & Henry, 42-34 lost to Washington & Lee, 40-23
2015 SCHEDULE Gallaudet, 7 p.m.
Sept. 12 at Ferrum, 1 p.m. Sept. 19 at N.C. Wesleyan, 1 p.m. Oct. 3
Bridgewater, 7 p.m.
Oct. 10
at Guilford, 1 p.m.
Shenandoah was second in the ODAC in rush“I’m pumped,” said Payne, who had 58 tackles ing (248.2 yards per game) last season, although Oct. 17 Catholic, 1 p.m. (10 for loss) last year. “If we can play together as the Hornets ranked sixth in scoring offense (27.6 Oct. 24 at Hampden-Syndey, 1 p.m. a team and play with that togetherness through- points per game). Yoder said one of the primary out the season, I don’t think there should be any- goals for the offense will be to limit turnovers Oct. 31 at Randolph-Macon, 1 p.m. one that can stop us or anyone that we can’t after giving the ball away 20 times last year, the Nov. 7 Emory & Henry, 1 p.m. stop. But it’s going to factor a lot into just keepfourth-worst mark in the ODAC. ing everyone together but … we’re a lot closer, so “I think they have a really good sense of what Nov. 14 Washington & Lee, 1 p.m. we shouldn’t have that problem.” we want to try to do and I think if our goal is as simple as cutting the turnovers in half, then Most of the skill position players return on the punting. we’re going to have a chance to win ballgames,” offense for the Hornets in 2015, although there Yoder said. Shenandoah opens its 2015 with a home game will be a new face at quarterback this season folagainst Gallaudet at 7 p.m. Sept. 5. The Hornets lowing the graduation of two-year starter Drew Sophomore Jacob Newton will retain the kickopen ODAC play with a homecoming game Ferguson. ing duties for the Hornets after leading the against Bridgewater on Oct. 3. ODAC with 12 made field goals (out of 14 Sophomores Travis Barton Jr. – who saw limited attempts) as a freshman, and Christian Arias Contact staff writer Brad Fauber at 540-465playing time last season – and Tyler Phelps and (34.7 yards per punt) returns to handle 5137 ext. 161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com 2014 Central High School grad Hayden Bauserman, a freshman, competed during spring practice in what Yoder called “the best quartertimes” in 2014. downs in 2014) and junior back battle we’ve had since we’ve been here” and Dalaun Richardson (216 rush“Staying healthy is my numcarried that into fall camp, although Phelps was ing yards last season) return ber one goal,” Delaney said. Continued from 60 slowed by an ankle injury early in fall practice. to join Delaney in the back“Having no fumbles this year. field. Yoder didn’t set timetable for when he’d like to the more important as the My other goal is winning the With Delaney providing the name a starting quarterback, saying only they Hornets will be breaking in a championship this year. I speed, Hopkins the power and would make a decision as soon as it “makes new quarterback following don’t want to go 4-6. At least Richardson a combination of sense,” and the coach dispelled the idea of the graduation of two-year have a winning record. And both, the Hornets are set up Shenandoah using a two-quarterback system like starter Drew Ferguson, have more yardage. And stayto continue the rushing sucit did in 2013. although Delaney won’t be ing humble, that’s the main alone in carrying that burden. cess they had a season ago, “I really don’t want to do the two thing,” Yoder thing right there.” although Yoder said the Shenandoah’s offensive line said. “… That’s not what we want to be, so I’m Contact staff writer Brad health of those three tailreturns three starters, and hoping we have one guy.” senior Kye Hopkins (526 backs remains a priority after Fauber at 540-465-5137 ext. Whoever earns the starting quarterback job will rushing yards, eight touch161, or bfauber@nvdaily.com all three were “limping at have plenty of talent around him, including jun-
Delaney
62 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
SHEPHERD UNIVERSITY RAMS
The Northern Virginia Daily
Shepherd’s Jeff Ziemba (11) flips the ball away to avoid a sack by Glenville State’s Seth Vanorsdale (44) during a game last year in Shepherdstown. Journal Photo by Ron Agnir
Late-season loss still lingers for Shepherd By Rich Kozlowski Special to the Daily SHEPHERDSTOWN — Sometimes, it’s all about perspective. While an 8-2 record is a winning mark, Shepherd didn’t feel overjoyed by it a season ago as a run of two straight conference championships ended, as did a two-year run of NCAA playoff appearances. In both losses, Shepherd was right there. The Rams suffered a one-point loss to Notre Dame College and took
national semifinalist Concord to overtime before a potential game-tying field goal that would’ve forced a second extra session was blocked and returned for a touchdown by the Mountain Lions. If anything, the way the game ended symbolized a season-long struggle Shepherd endured with haphazard play by its special teams that crossed all parts of the unit. Shepherd can’t escape the memory of the loss to Concord in the final game of the season – with a share of the league
title on the line and a possible playoff berth at stake for the Rams, too. “I know you’re not supposed to,” Shepherd coach Monte Cater said. “When it’s the last one, it endures.You know why and want to play better.” The Rams have the ingredients to improve their play and make another run at the Mountain East Conference title. Shepherd possesses seven veteran starters on offense and six defensively from a unit that was again among the
nation’s best. That’s even though the roster is dotted with only 10 seniors for a second year in a row. “We’re excited about this year,” Cater said. Key skill people are back on offense, and Cater doesn’t anticipate any less from a defense that annually ranks among the nation’s best under defensive coordinator Josh Kline. “Coach Kline puts together one of the best defenses in Division II,” Cater RAMS, 64
The Northern Virginia Daily
SHEPHERD UNIVERSITY RAMS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
63
Shepherd’s Allen Cross (31) tries to elude Concord’s Mishawn Cummings (7) during their game last year in Shepherdstown. Journal Photo by Ron Agnir
Cross eager to lead Rams in senior season ference championships and be “Stats aren’t everything,” said in the playoffs two of three BRIDGEPORT — Alan Cross Cross, at the conference media years,” Cross noted. The 5-foot-7, 188-pound Cross suffered a considerable dropoff day while sitting in a room really just wants to lead a relin his rushing yardage from that included a pair of attenatively young but talented tion-grabbing, yardage-chomphis sophomore to junior seaing backs from Mountain East Shepherd outfit — in whatever son. Conference teams who do most way that turns out to be. That’s OK to the Shepherd “Our role as a team leader is senior, who was joined by run- of their team’s rushing. ning mate Jabre Lolley in Shepherd splits carries equi- to do what’s best for the team,” Cross said. “I’d rather win a tably between Cross and his declining statistics, largely championship than carry it 25 attributable to a muchjunior partner, something times [a game].” improved passing game for Shepherd coach Monte Cater Shepherd in 2014. indicated helps keep his runIt’s all about his team for ning backs fresh. Cross. Cross is fine with whatever his statistics turn out to be “I’ve been blessed to win con“I’d like to keep [personal By Rich Kozlowski Special to the Daily
during his senior season.
goals] to myself,” he said. “I just want to do whatever to help us win championships.” Cross realizes Shepherd’s improved passing attack with Jeff Ziemba, one of the nation’s best in terms of completion percentage, helps the Rams’ rushing attack. And vice versa, a strong running game helps the passing offense. “The passing game takes defenders out of the box when [a defense] has to worry about that element,” Cross said. “That’s a huge key. Every offense has to share the foot-
ball because of all the great athletes we have. “Sure, there’s not enough balls to go around, but it helps make us what we are.” Cross said he thinks what the Rams are is a strong team that is hungry after the empty feeling left by last season’s finish. “I’m excited,” Cross said. “It’s my senior year, last year to make memories. “We want to make it one of the best seasons ever at Shepherd.”
64 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
Rams Continued from 62
said. “We think it’ll be that way again.” The biggest question mark on the unit is at outside linebacker, where the Rams will be replacing two starters. There will be missing pieces on the line, too, but a pair of Division I transfers who sat out last year give Cater the cause to say, “It could be one of the best we’ve had in a long time.” Where Shepherd really needs to improve is on special teams, usually a strength under Cater. The return game a season ago was stifled somewhat because teams kicked away from C.J. Davis, an AllAmerican return man as a freshman, and defending kickoffs proved problematic by turning opposing returners into reflections of Davis. Kickers, two different ones who return this season, missed extrapoint kicks at inopportune times. Then, of course, was the blocked field goal that doomed Shepherd to a long offseason. “We need to get better,” Cater said of special teams. “Hopefully, we’ll be more consistent in that phase.” Offensively, while all eyes will be on quarterback Jeff Ziemba, a participant in the prestigious Peyton Manning Camp over the summer, and veteran running backs Alan Cross and Jabre Lolley, attention should be paid to the offensive line — where it all starts. The Rams graduated three of the interior five,
2015 RAMS • Coach: Monte Cater (29th year, 209-90-1) • Offense/Defense: Multiple-I/4-4 • Key returnees: QB Jeff Ziemba, RB Allen Cross, RB Jabre Lolley, LB Octavius Thomas, K Ryan Earls, KR/DB C.J. Davis, LB Levi Barber, FB Jon Hammer, WR Billy Brown, WR Dalton Boyd, TE Jamie Deason, LB James Gupton • Key losses: OL Hussam Ouri, OL Isaiah Shelton, LB De”ontre Johnson, DB Dontrewell Kelley
2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 5 Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 5 Nov. 14
at West Virginia Wesleyan, Noon Charleston, Noon at U.Va.-Wise, 1 p.m. Notre Dame College (Ohio), Noon at Glenville State, 1 p.m. West Virginia State, Noon Concord, Noon West Liberty, Noon at Fairmont State, 7 p.m. Urbana, Noon
SHEPHERD UNIVERSITY RAMS including an All-American who was one of two fouryear starters. “If you can’t run or the quarterback’s on his backside...,” Cater said. “It is one of the toughest jobs. If the defense misses an assignment, there’s someone else to pick it up. If your guy misses a block, you have a problem.” Projected starters include Brandon Wooten, Zach Buffkin, William Smith, Jacob Kingston and Lavonte Hights. “We got some good young guys,” Cater said. But there’s a good older guy in Jon Hammer, who serves as kind of an extra lineman in Shepherd’s attack at fullback.
The Northern Virginia Daily
2014 STATS • Record: 8-2 (8-2 Mountain East) • Passing leader: Jeff Ziemba (162 for 247, 2,248 yards, 18 touchdowns, 2 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Jabre Lolley (143 carries for 767 yards, 12 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Billy Brown (36 receptions for 676 yards, 6 touchdowns) • Total tackles: James Gupton (69) • Sacks: Myles Humphrey (8.5) • Interceptions: C.J. Davis (5)
2014 RESULTS (8-2, 8-2 MT. EAST)
Sept. 6 Ziemba threw for 2,248 yards and 18 touchdowns Sept. 13 last season. His completion percentage of .656 was Sept. 20 among the nation’s best, ranking him 10th in the country. He was in the top 10 in two other categories, Sept. 27 including being sixth in passing efficiency. Oct. 4 Cater excused one of the two interceptions because Oct. 11 it came as a result of a tipped ball. Oct. 18 Lolley ran for 767 yards and 12 touchdowns and Cross rushed for 601 yards and eight touchdowns as Nov. 1 the pair shared the load in the running game and Nov. 8 will do so again. Nov. 15 Shepherd is loaded skill-wise.
Tight end-sized Billy Brown, who caught a touchdown pass in the closing seconds to force overtime in the final against Concord, is the leader of the wide receivers. Cater said Brown “is as good as we’ve had.” Tony Squirewell and Sherando graduate Dalton Boyd are the veteran wide receivers. Jamie Deason returns as the tight end, and Lue Sokoya, injured and unavailable last season, gives the Rams depth at that slot. Ziemba, Cross, Lolley, Hammer and Brown were named to all-MEC second team.
beat West Liberty, 38-13 beat Fairmont State, 56-0 beat Urbana, 42-7 beat West Virginia Wesleyan, 56-7 beat Charleston, 24-15 beat Virginia-Wise, 51-0 lost to Notre Dame College, 35-34 beat Glenville State, 37-14 beat West Virginia State, 24-10 lost to Concord, 23-20, OT
players. James Gupton, the league’s freshman defender of the year, and Octavious Thomas are steady and solid inside. Both were all-league players a season ago. Davis intercepted five passes last season at cornerback and will be joined in the secondary by Philip Rhoden, who had five pickoffs to lead Shepherd the year before and Tre Sullivan. The Rams will get a boost with the return of former All-American Keon Robinson.
“The secondary will be very, very solid,” Cater said. Shepherd’s defense ranked first nationally in rushDavis earned first-team all-MEC honors at defening defense for the fourth season in a row, was second sive back and was a second-team choice as a return overall in total defense and ranked third in scoring specialist. defense, a number actually inflated by the points Ryan Earls was named as the league’s first-team allowed by special teams. It’s something Shepherd kicker two seasons ago, but he and Mark Murphy always does, though, play iron-hard defense. wound up sharing kicking and punting duties a seaThe defensive line, about which Cater raves, is bolson ago. They are back. stered by big-school transfers Elijah Norris and Marshall Mundin.
Shepherd opens the season Sept. 5 at West Virginia Wesleyan, the second year in a row the Rams will “We think those guys are good,” Cater said. have begun on the road. The Rams home-opener Shaneil Jenkins, Demetrius Dixon, Denzel Offor and comes a week later against Charleston. Myles Humphries, a second-team all-league choice, “We’re looking forward to a good year,” Cater said. work from the ends. “You better play better every week. We found that out.” “The concern is outside linebacker,” Cater said, where the Rams must replace a pair of all-conference
Now Shepherd looks to rectify that situation in 2015.
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UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA CAVALIERS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
65
Courtesy photo/Virginia Athletics Communications
Virginia’s Maurice Canady looks to make a play in a game last year. Canady and the Cavaliers play at UCLA to start the season.
Cavaliers hope new mindset leads to wins ter. This year I think our mindset is just shut up and work,” Virginia junCHARLOTTESVILLE — Sometimes ior quarterback Matt Johns said. “Just work every single day. ...Bring silence can be the best thing. energy, know your job and just focus That’s an approach that the University of Virginia is hoping will and just work.” lead to wins this season. There’s been plenty of talk about By Tommy Keeler Jr.
“In the past there was a lot of chat-
Virginia head football coach Mike
London’s job being on the line this season if his team doesn’t have success.
The Cavaliers, who return five starters on offense, will be counting on Johns to have a productive season.
That will be a difficult chore for the The duo of Taquan Mizzell and Cavaliers, who have a very tough Daniel Hamm will be counted on to schedule. Virginia plays UCLA, lead the running game. Notre Dame and Boise State in three of its first four contests. CAVALIERS, 67
66 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA CAVALIERS
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Johns confident and in charge for Cavs this season By Tommy Keeler Jr. CHARLOTTESVILLE — An opportunity landed in Matt Johns’ lap and he clearly made the most of it. In the University of Virginia’s football season opener last year against UCLA, Johns came off the bench to almost rally the Cavaliers against a Top 25 team. Things couldn’t be more different this season for the junior as Johns is the clear starting quarterback for the Cavaliers. “It’s more fun this year,” Johns said of being the starting quarterback this year. “I know things. I see things a lot faster. The game’s moving a lot slower. I’m just playing with an open mind and having fun. Sometimes you get away from that. I think that’s important to harp on. …Let’s have fun.” Things weren’t as much fun for Johns in his first two seasons. As a freshman he didn’t attempt a single pass. Last year he was battling Greyson Lambert for the starting job, and Lambert was given the nod to start the season against UCLA. Johns said he always felt he was in Lambert’s shadow, but when the Cavaliers fell Virginia quarterback Matt Johns scrambles during a game last season. behind 21-7 in the second quarter it was his chance to offense in every way. … He’s Johns won the starting job “…I think I gained a lot of shine. Johns went 13 for 22 really shown himself to be respect from my teammates.” during spring practice and passing for 154 yards and the guy that’s not just conLambert eventually transJohns and Lambert shared two touchdowns. cerned with what he has to ferred to the University of the quarterback duties for “I took the initiative that I do, but also the surrounding Georgia. can play here. I want to show the rest of the season. Johns “Matt’s done an excellent job cast and I believe that’s why finished with 1,109 passing people that. That was my thus far,” Virginia head coach I respect him so much and opportunity and I wanted to yards, completing 89 of 162 call him a leader.” Mike London said. “He has pass attempts and eight make the most of it and forJohns’ leadership ability excellent command of the touchdowns. tunately I did,” Johns said.
Courtesy photo/Virginia Athletics Communications
showed during the summer as he got some of the players together for 7-on-7’s. He said he also tried to learn as much of the playbook as possible so he could help out the other players. “I wanted to learn every little JOHNS, 67
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Cavaliers Continued from 65
Mizzell, a junior, had a lot of hype in high school, and earned the nickname “Smoke” for his ability to make people miss tackles.
“I have a tremendous amount of confidence in ‘smoke,’” London said. “He’s learning. He has improved dramatically. He’s a very skillfull player. There’s different ways that you can use his skillset.”
The Cavaliers must replace graduated Darius Jennings at wide receiver, but got a nice gift when T.J. Thorpe transferred to the school in the offseason. Thorpe played three years for the University of North Carolina where he had 42 receptions for 574 yards and five touchdowns. He also averaged 24.5 yards per kickoff return for the Tar Heels in three seasons. However, Thorpe will miss the first part of the season after suffering a broken clavicle during the preseason.
Virginia also retruns senior wide receiver Canaan Severin (42 receptions for 578 yards and five touchdowns last season). Senior Rob Burns is expected to lead the way at tight end for the Cavlaiers.
Johns Continued from 66
detail of the offense and be able to teach the young guys,” Johns said. “When the coaches aren’t out there in the summer someone has to know it. If they have a question, who are they going to go to? If no one knows the offense then we’re in trouble. I really took the initiative to learn the offense very distinctively, and at the same time know that’s going to [help me] on the field to be more productive.” Johns lost wide receiver Darius Jennings to graduation, but the Cavaliers should still have a solid
UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA CAVALIERS 2015 CAVALIERS • Coach: Mike London (sixth season, 23-38) • Offense/Defense: Pro, 4-3 • Key returnees: QB Matt Johns, WR Canaan Severin, OL Ross Burbank, OL Ryan Doull, OL Michael Mooney, OL Eric Smith, DL Mike Moore, DL David Dean, CB Maurice Canady, CB Demetrious Nicholson, FS Quin Blanding • Key losses: TB Kevin Parks, WR Miles Gooch, WR Darius Jennings, TE Zachary Swanson, OL Conner Davis, DE Eli Harold, LB Daquan Romero, LB Max Valles, LB Henry Coley, CB Brandon Phelps, SS Anthony Harris
One positive for the Cavaliers should be their offensive line, where they return at least three starters. Senior Ross Burbank and juniors Michael Mooney and Ryan Doull will be back. Junior Eric Smith is a tight battle with redshirt freshman Jake Fieler at right tackle.
2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 5
at UCLA, 3:30 p.m.
Sept. 12 Notre Dame, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 19 William & Mary, 3:30 p.m. Sept. 25 Boise State, 8 p.m. Oct. 10
at Pittsburgh, TBA
Oct. 17
Syracuse, TBA
Oct. 24
at North Carolina, TBA
Oct. 31
Georgia Tech, TBA
Nov. 7
at Miami, TBA
Nov. 14 at Louisville, TBA Nov. 21 Duke, TBA Nov. 28 Virginia Tech, TBA
The Cavaliers were also bolstered by the addition of University of North Carolina transfer T.J. Thorpe, but he will miss the first part of the season after suffering a broken clavicle in preseason. “They’re a lot of fun. They bring a lot of different things to the team,” Johns said. “T.J. can take the top off. Canaan is going to win his oneon-one matchups. He’s going to get open. He’s going to make plays — that’s what he does. I’m really excited about T.J. Thorpe — I think
67
2014 RESULTS (5-7, 3-5 ACC) Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8 Nov. 22 Nov. 28
lost to UCLA, 28-20 beat Richmond, 45-13 beat Louisville, 23-21 lost to BYU, 41-33 beat Kent State, 45-13 beat Pittsburgh, 24-19 lost to Duke, 20-13 lost to North Carolina, 28-27 lost to Georgia Tech, 35-10 lost to Florida State, 34-20 beat Miami, 30-13 lost to Virginia Tech, 24-20
2014 STATS • Record: 5-7 (3-5 ACC)
with senior defensive end Mike Moore and senior defensive tackle David Dean both returning. Senior Kwontioe Moore should fill the other defensive end position, while junior Donte Wilkins and sophomore Andrew Brown will battle it out for the final defensive tackle spot. “They’ve created a situation where they’re going to push each other,” The Cavaliers also have plenty of London said of Smith and Fieler. experience and talent in the second“When you see that type of competi- ary. Senior Maurice Canady and tion, not only from that position but sophomore Quin Blanding (123 tackany other position that we have, it les and three interceptions last seamakes us a better football team.” son) return at cornerback and free On the defensive side of the ball, the safety respectively. Juniors Kelvin Rainey and Tim Harris should fill Cavaliers should be solid up front nucleus of receivers. Senior Canaan Severin and sophomore Andre Levrone finished spring practice at the top of the depth charts.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
he brings a lot to the table.” The Cavaliers are trying to improve on a disappointing 5-7 season, including 3-5 in the ACC Coastal division. Johns said he thinks the team just needs to take things one day at a time. “Everyone’s 0-0, but we just want to attack every single day with a new open mindset and just compete and do our job,” Johns said. “I think if we just focus on the task at hand day in and day out, we’ll reap the benefits in the future.” Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
• Passing leader: Greyson Lambert (154 for 261, 1,632 yards, 10 touchdowns, 11 interceptions) • Rushing leader: Kevin Parks (189 carries for 745 yards, 4 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Canaan Severin (42 receptions for 578 yards, 5 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Quin Blanding (123) • Sacks: Max Valles (9) • Interceptions: Quin Blanding (3), Maurice Canady (3)
out the rest of the starters in the defensive backfield. “Maurice [Canady] is a very important cog in this defense, because he can play so many different positions,” London said. “His ability to play multiple positions very well makes us a better secondary. ...The secondary should be a strength of ours on defense, because of the guys that are back.” The one area of concern for the cavaliers on defense is the linebackers, where they have no starters returning. Juniors Mark Hall and Zach Bradshaw and sophomore Micah Kiser were strong candidates to start during the preseason. Senior Ian Frye and junior Nicholas Conte were expected to be the kicker and punter respectively. Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
VIRGINIA TECH HOKIES
68 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Courtesy photo/Virginia Tech Athletics Communications
Virginia Tech’s Dadi Nicholas (90) celebrates during a game last season.
Hokies have good reason for high hopes By Tommy Keeler Jr.
Tech this year.
They return eight starters on both sides of the ball. As usual, things BLACKSBURG — Coming off a disstart with the defense. appointing season, there’s plenty of reasons for optimism for Virginia “I really like this group of kids that
we have right now. They’re working ence. At the same time we have a couple new faces that will be in some really, really hard,” Virginia Tech critical spots for us.” defensive coordinator Bud Foster said. “I like the chemistry we have. ... All four starters return on the Experience sometimes is the best teacher and we do have some experiHOKIES, 70
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VIRGINIA TECH HOKIES
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
69
Brewer more comfortable in role this season By Tommy Keeler Jr. BLACKSBURG — Michael Brewer is comfortable with the Virginia Tech offense and the Hokies senior quarterback, who transferred from Texas Tech University last year, said this preseason feels much different than last season’s did. “Last year I was just making sure that I knew where everybody was going within the route concept and now this year it’s more in depth,” Brewer said. “Now it’s what’s the defense doing? What kind of protection would best suit us? This play might be better than this play in this situation. ... Now it’s really full picture stuff — truly quarterback stuff.” Virginia Tech offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Scot Loeffler said that last year he had to have a talk with Brewer after every play and that hasn’t been the case in the preseason. “I think we’ve had a really good training camp of throwing the ball,” Loeffler said. “Brewer — with the pressure we’ve put on him — he’s doing a really nice job right now.” Brewer finished last year with 2,692 yards on 262 for 441 passing. He had 18 touchdowns and 15 interceptions in his first season with the Hokies. He said that he’s not only learning the offense, but also getting used to the pressure that comes with being a starting quarterback at a Division 1-A school. He will also have some experienced receivers to throw the ball to. Sophomore wide receivers Isaiah Ford and Cam Phillips return after starting last year as freshmen. Brewer said he worked a lot with the pair in the offseason and it’s really helped all of them. He said just having some experience should also help. “Last year I was new and then you have a bunch of new freshmen that you’re having to rely on, not knowing that you’re going to have to rely on them until we got halfway through camp,” Brewer said. “It’s nice to know who your guys are. Being able to get BREWER, 70
Courtesy photo/Virginia Tech Athletics Communications
Virginia Tech quarterback Michael Brewer looks down the field during a game last season. The Hokies host Ohio State on Sept. 7.
VIRGINIA TECH HOKIES
70 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
Hokies
2015 SCHEDULE Sept. 7 Continued from 68
Ohio State, 8 p.m.
Sept. 12 Furman, 3:30 p.m.
defensive line: seniors Dadi Nicholas, Luther Maddy and Corey Marshall, and junior Ken Ekanem.
Sept. 19 at Purdue, 3:30 p.m.
Virginia Tech head football coach Frank Beamer said they could have as many as 10 guys rotating in and out on the defensive line.
Oct. 3
Pittsburgh, TBA
Oct. 9
N.C. State, 8 p.m.
Oct. 17
at Miami, TBA
Oct. 24
Duke, TBA
Oct. 31
at Boston College, TBA
“We got some talent, and we’ll turn them loose and see if they can’t sack the quarterback,” Beamer said.
Sept. 26 at East Carolina, TBA
Deon Clarke is the only returning starter back at Nov. 12 linebacker. The Hokies have three returners back in the secondary, including Kendall Fuller. The Nov. 21 junior was a first-team All-ACC selection last Nov. 28 year. Virginia Tech’s offense was one of its biggest problems last season, but quarterback Michael Brewer is more confident and comfortable with running the offense, and he has a plethora of options to throw the ball to.
at Georgia Tech, 7:30 p.m. North Carolina, TBA
• Key losses: WR Willie Byrn, OL Caleb Farris, OL David Wang, OL Laurence Gibson, LB Chase Williams, ROV Kyshoen Jarrett, FS Detrick Bonner.
Aug. 30 Sept. 6 Sept. 13 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Nov. 1 Nov. 15 Nov. 22 Nov. 28 Dec. 27
beat William & Mary, 34-9 beat Ohio State, 35-21 lost to East Carolina, 28-21 lost to Georgia Tech, 27-24 beat Western Michigan, 35-17 beat North Carolina, 34-17 lost to Pittsburgh, 21-16 lost to Miami, 30-6 lost to Boston College, 33-31 beat Duke, 17-16 lost to Wake Forest, 6-3, OT beat Virginia, 24-20 beat Cincinnati, 33-17
2014 STATS
year he has.”
The 6-foot-6 Hodges can be a real match-up prob- Jonathan McLaughlin, Wyatt Teller and Augie lem for opposing teams. Conte — returning from last year. “You talk about a guy whose got that size and Virginia Tech also returns sophomore placekicker that speed. He allows you to do a lot of things,” Joey Slye and senior punter A.J. Hughes. Brewer said. “He can be involved in the run game “We’ve never consistently kicked the ball the way at tight end. He can be involved in the pass game. we are here right now at Virginia Tech,” Beamer He can split out wide. ... He’s a downfield threat. said. “So, that’s a good thing.” He’s a versatile player — that’s the best way to The Hokies open the season Sept. 7 at home put it. He’s going to help us a lot this year. He against defending national champion and the helped us a lot this year. nation’s No. 1 ranked team Ohio State. Virginia “I’m really looking forward to seeing what kind of Tech beat Ohio State last year, 35-21, in the second game of the season, but then lost their next two contests. 2015 HOKIES • Key returnees: QB Michael Brewer, RB J.C. Coleman, RB Trey Edmunds, RB Marshawn Williams, RB Shai McKenzie, FB Sam Rogers, WR Isaiah Ford, WR Cam Phillips, TE Bucky Hodges, TE Ryan Malleck, OL Wyatt Teller, OL Jonathan McLaughlin, DE Dadi Nicholas, DE Ken Ekanem, DT Luther Maddy, DT Corey Marshall, LB Deon Clarke, CB Kendall Fuller, CB Brandon Facyson, CB Chuck Clark, K Joey Slye, P A.J. Hughes.
2014 RESULTS (7-6, 3-5 ACC)
at Virginia, TBA
The Hokies also have plenty of choices at running back where senior J.C. Coleman, redshirt junior Trey Edmunds, redshirt freshman Travon McMillian and sophomores Shai McKenzie and Wide receivers Isaiah Ford and Cam Phillips and Marshawn Williams will be battling for playing tight end Bucky Hodges, all sophomores, started time. last year for the Hokies. The Hokies’ offensive line has three starters —
• Coach: Frank Beamer (29th year, 231-115-2)
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Brewer
• Record: 7-6 (3-5 ACC) • Passing leader: Michael Brewer (262 for 441, 2,692 yards, 18 touchdowns, 15 interceptions) • Rushing leader: J.C. Coleman (107 carries for 533 yards, 3 touchdowns) • Receiving leader: Isaiah Ford (56 receptions for 709 yards, 6 touchdowns) • Total tackles: Kyshoen Jarrett (88) • Sacks: Ken Ekanem (9.5) • Interceptions: Kyshoen Jarrett (3)
“It was nice to get the win against a quality opponent like that, and especially on the road in such a historical stadium against a historical team,” Brewer said. “But like I said last year that doesn’t mean a whole lot unless you get a win the next week, and we weren’t able to do that. So this year, win it or lose it, we gotta get it done the next week. We’ve got to take that approach each week.” Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-4655137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
that timing down and build off of it.
Last year the team struggled to a 7-6 record, and the lack of offense played a role in that. Brewer said he’s confident in the offense the Hokies will have this season.
“... I trust them and I know exactly where they’re going to be and they’re trusting me to put the ball where it’s supposed to be. That’s how it’s gotta be.”
Brewer and the Hokies will be put to the test in the season opener as they host defending national champion and No. 1 ranked Ohio State on Sept. 7.
Continued from 69
“We’re looking forward to representing the university (on Sept. 7),” Brewer said. “It’s a big opportunity — defending nationals champions coming into your house. They’ve got a heckuva ballclub. We just need to go out there and execute and have fun with it.” Contact staff writer Tommy Keeler at 540-465-5137 ext. 168, or tkeeler@nvdaily.com
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PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
71
Chip makes big changes Athlon Sports Chip Kelly’s short tenure as Philadelphia’s coach has been anything but dull. It’s too early to tell if the many changes Kelly has made will pay off in postseason success, but there can be no denying the interest the team has created. In a town starving for good news in the light of the horrible play of the Phillies, Sixers and Flyers, the Eagles’ offseason personnel binge was a welcome diversion from the carnage afflicting the city’s other professional teams. Now in his third year with the Birds, Kelly is completely in charge of the team on and off the field. The team is all his, and if some have been turned off by the decisions he’s made, Kelly frankly doesn’t care. He has a plan, and as one of the rare NFL coaches who also handles the personnel end of the business, he is in a unique position to carry it out. After two straight seasons of 10 wins — but no playoff success — the Philadelphia community is expecting more in 2015. It’s up to Kelly to prove that he knows what he’s doing. OFFENSE The star of the Eagles’ offense is the scheme, which features a highspeed, run-first spread attack designed to leave opponents panting and confused. It worked well last year: Philadelphia was fifth in the league in total offense, third in points per game and
ninth in rushing. But thanks to a few significant offseason moves, there is no guarantee the Eagles will be able to replicate that success. Further, the success that top defenses — Seattle, San Francisco, Indianapolis included — had against Philadelphia last year may have created a blueprint for 2015 opponents.
healthy, he can be accurate and productive, although he has limited potential to run from the zone read. Inconsistent Mark Sanchez will back him up.
The biggest change is at running back, where LeSean McCoy is off to Buffalo after rushing for 2,926 yards the past two seasons. By the end of last year, there were whispers that Kelly wasn’t happy with his featured back, who at times waited for a hole to emerge, rather than sticking his foot in the ground and powering straight ahead. That’s why the Eagles signed DeMarco Murray, who rushed for 1,845 yards and 13 scores — both tops in the league — last year for Dallas. Murray is more of a plantand-cut guy, and Kelly likes that. He won’t get 392 carries, though, like he did last year, as Ryan Mathews arrives from San Diego and versatile Darren Sproles returns, although Mathews missed a big part of 2014 with a foot injury.
For the second straight year, the Eagles lost a topshelf receiver. After 2013, DeSean Jackson departed. Now, they will do without Jeremy Maclin (85 catches, 10 TDs), who signed with Kansas City. His loss hurts a receiving corps that now needs big contributions from second-year man Jordan Matthews, who has potential but isn’t a No. 1-type, disappointing Riley Cooper, veteran pick-up Miles Austin and rookie Nelson Agholor of USC. Agholor, the team’s firstround draft pick, is a Maclin clone who has good quickness and ball skills but won’t force opponents to double-team him. Tight end Brent Celek is a warrior, but he saw his production drop last year, so it’s time for third-year man Zach Ertz to develop into a major contributor.
If Murray plays like he did last year, it will make life easy for new quarterback Sam Bradford, whom the team acquired in a trade with St. Louis. Although there were rumors the Birds were going to trade the team for Marcus Mariota, no deal happened, and Bradford is under center, so long as he doesn’t get injured again. Now on his third ACL, Bradford has played a total of seven games the past two seasons. If
The Eagles didn’t address the offensive line in the draft, but that’s not the worst thing in the world. Left tackle Jason Peters is still one of the best around, and center Jason Kelce is an All-Pro candidate. Right tackle Lane Johnson is solid but not yet a standout. There will be a new starter at left guard, as Evan Mathis was somewhat surprisingly released in June.
Tom DiPace
Jordan Matthews, WR
PHILADELPHIA, 72
72 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
Philadelphia Continued from 71
Allen Barbre, who was slated to start at right guard before Mathis was released, will likely switch sides, while the other guard slot probably won’t be settled until the end of training camp, if not later.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES
The Northern Virginia Daily
total defense, tied for 22nd in points allowed and 31st against the pass. There have been some big changes made on the back end, but there’s no guarantee the unit can hold up against better opposition.
The trade for McCoy netted inside linebacker Kiko Alonso, who had 87 solo tackles and four interceptions in 2013 but missed all of last year with a torn ACL. If healthy, he is a downhill DEFENSE playmaker. If not, the Eagles are in Kelly’s offensive philosophy puts tremendous stress on the defense, and trouble. The team re-upped inside man last year that was not a good thing. The DeMeco Ryans, who tore his Achilles tendon in the eighth game of 2014 and Eagles finished 28th in the league in could struggle getting back to top form. Mychal Kendricks spent the offseason that needs to improve. Agholor adds upset about his contract and Alonso’s Tom DiPace arrival, but if he plays hard, he can be excitement to the return game, and Sproles is a threat to go the distance at Fletcher Cox, DE a difference maker. all times. (how could it be worse?), but the Eagles Sack man Connor Barwin and still need Alonso and Ryans to make FINAL ANALYSIS Brandon Graham are the main outside healthy returns in order to make the This is a tough team to read because threats in Bill Davis’ 3-4, and it is up to second line of defense potent. The there are so many variables due to Graham — who showed flashes last Eagles will continue to try to outscore injury. If Bradford is healthy, the year — to play consistently. The Birds people, and while that works against offense should be potent, thanks to hope third-round pick Jordan Hicks some teams, it isn’t good enough Murray, but there are big concerns at can provide good depth inside, while wide receiver. The secondary is better against the NFC’s best. second-year man Marcus Smith, the Eagles’ first-round pick last year, is still waiting to make his first NFL tackle.
ALL TEAMS!
The Eagles’ secondary was horrible last year, and fans welcomed the departures of Bradley Fletcher and Cary Williams. Philadelphia will use former Seattle corner Byron Maxwell on one side and hope he wasn’t aided by the presence of Richard Sherman opposite him in the Emerald City. New addition Walter Thurmond could play on the other side, but he is more of a slot corner and could play safety. By midseason, second-round pick Eric Rowe could have the job. Malcolm Jenkins is tough at free safety, but there is a hole next to him. Up front, left end Fletcher Cox should be a Pro Bowler, while big Bennie Logan is a drain plug in the middle, and Cedric Thornton is a solid end.
A
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SPECIALISTS The Eagles lucked into something good when they acquired Cody Parkey, who made 32-of-36 kicks last year, including 4-of-4 from 50 yards and beyond. Punter Donnie Jones averaged 43.8 yards per kick last year, a number
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BALTIMORE RAVENS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
73
Changes in Baltimore Athlon Sports When the Baltimore Ravens trudged out of the locker room at Gillette Stadium following a bitter playoff loss to the New England Patriots, feisty veteran wide receiver Steve Smith vowed they’d be back and that the outcome would be different the next time. Following an offseason defined by change — offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak left to become the Denver Broncos’ head coach; defensive tackle Haloti Ngata was traded to the Detroit Lions; and wide receiver Torrey Smith and pass rusher Pernell McPhee departed as free agents — the Ravens are confident that their roster is well stocked to make another serious playoff run. The Ravens have made the playoffs six of the past seven years under coach John Harbaugh and are upbeat about their prospects following a strong draft that filled several needs. That included drafting UCF wide receiver Breshad Perriman in the first round and tight end Maxx Williams in the second. Although the Ravens weren’t particularly active in free agency due to a tight salary cap situation, general manager Ozzie Newsome cautions that he’s not done building the roster. OFFENSE Although he is never among the first names men-
tioned in conversations about top NFL quarterbacks, Joe Flacco is a strong-armed, accurate, mobile QB Tom DiPace who owns a Super Bowl ring and a $120.6 million contract. Flacco improved significantly under Kubiak Joe Flacco, QB a year ago. Now, he’ll collaborate with new offensive Williams is expected to have an immediate impact coordinator Marc Trestman to try to capitalize on in a passing game that has sorely missed the preshis arm strength in more of a vertical passing game. ence of Dennis Pitta over the past two seasons as he Flacco has a bigger, faster deep threat to work with has twice fractured and dislocated his right hip. in Perriman than Torrey Smith, who was no slouch. Pitta’s career is in doubt. Flacco could still stand to improve on his deep-ball The offensive line represents one of the major accuracy but has matured into a sharp football mind strengths of the team. Flacco was sacked only 19 who makes sound decisions and gets the football out times last year, and all five starters are back. of his hands quickly. Matt Schaub is Flacco’s new Powerful left guard Kelechi Osemele and gritty vetbackup. eran right guard Marshal Yanda are entering conJustin Forsett has transformed his NFL reputation from undersized journeyman to featured back. Forsett was rewarded with a three-year, $9 million contract. He’ll remain the primary back despite the Ravens drafting USC running back Javorius “Buck” Allen, a big back with pass-catching skills. Lorenzo Taliaferro is in the mix as a red-zone presence but has to concentrate on avoiding fumbles. Despite being 36 years old and entering his 15th NFL season, Steve Smith remains fast enough to create separation. He’s still physical and combative after the catch, not conceding anything and challenging defensive backs every snap. Smith will be targeted frequently, but Marlon Brown, Michael Campanaro and Kamar Aiken will also be involved.
tract years and are competing for one big deal with at least one expected to leave after this season. Center Jeremy Zuttah’s size and athleticism represent a major upgrade over Gino Gradkowski, a former starter traded to the Broncos. Left tackle Eugene Monroe is coming off a disappointing season in which he struggled in pass protection and didn’t have as much punch as a blocker after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery. Rick Wagner emerged as one of the NFL’s top right tackles, utilizing his strength and sound technique to wall off pass rushers. The top backup is John Urschel, a math whiz from Penn State who can play both guard spots and center in a pinch. BALTIMORE, 74
BALTIMORE RAVENS
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DEFENSE Defensive coordinator Dean Pees’ aggressive 3-4 scheme creates a lot of pressure without blitzing with an emphasis on getting outside linebackers Elvis Dumervil and Terrell Suggs isolated in one-on-one blocking situations. Dumervil and Suggs combined for 29 sacks last season as one of the most formidable passrushingtandems in the game.
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Outside linebacker Courtney Upshaw hasn’t shown much more than being a brawny edge-setter; the team needs more pass-rush production. Rookie Za’Darius Smith is the top candidate to replace McPhee as a situational pass rusher.
The secondary was decimated by injuries last season. Jimmy Smith was arguably playing at a Pro Bowl level before suffering a Lisfranc foot sprain that required surgery. The Ravens felt good enough about his recovery this offseason to invest a four-year, $48 million contract in him. Veteran corner Lardarius Webb restructured his conNgata was a disruptive force who will tract and has made a sound return from be replaced by Timmy Jernigan. Jernigan a troublesome back injury. The Ravens showed flashes of being a capable fulltime starter with four sacks as a rookie. lack a proven nickel back and will audiHe needs to be more consistent, though, tion Asa Jackson, Rashaan Melvin and rookie Tray Walker for that role. The and maintain his intensity. Built low to the ground and with the ability to bench team also signed veterans Kyle Arrington and Cassius Vaughn to add to press more than 500 pounds, massive its cornerback depth. lineman Brandon Williams is one of the Safety was one of the weakest positions top nose tackles in the game. Chris on the team last season. Rangy new free Canty is a starter and an experienced safety Kendrick Lewis is expected to staleader but will be pushed by young bilize the position, and Will Hill reviveddefensive linemen Brent Urban, Carl his career last year and was slated to Davis, Kapron Lewis-Moore and compete with Matt Elam for the other Lawrence Guy. starting position. But then Elam went C.J. Mosley is one of the most instinctive young inside linebackers in the NFL. down with a torn biceps early in training camp, leaving the Ravens dangerously He has great recognition skills and the thin. speed to chase down running backs in
game is in flux after the Ravens cut Jacoby Jones. Punter Sam Koch averaged 47 yards last season and has good hang time and directional skills. Longsnapper Morgan Cox is good enough that the Ravens keep signing him to new contracts, even after he tore an ACL for the second time in his career last year.
FINAL ANALYSIS Although the schedule is demanding, the open field. Middle linebacker Daryl SPECIALISTS the Ravens remain playoff contenders — Smith is up in years but rewarded the The kicking game is headlined by Justin if a receiving corps in flux can get the job Ravens’ faith in him last season when he Tucker, the most accurate kicker in NFL done and if the secondary can avoid the piled up 128 tackles — five fewer than history. Tucker has enough range that injuries that have prevented them from Mosley — and forced two fumbles. he’s a constant scoring threat. The return getting past Tom Brady in the postseason.
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WASHINGTON REDSKINS
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
75
Looking for stability
Athlon Sports
If 2014 showed the Washington Redskins in a state of anchorless drift — toggling between three quarterbacks, losing five games by 20 or more points and beset by the dysfunction and intrigue that have come to define the Daniel Snyder era — the 2015 version, at least in theory, will emphasize stability.
For Year 2 of Jay Gruden’s tenure as head coach, the team hired a proven personnel man, in Scot McCloughan, to be its GM — and more important, gave him full autonomy on personnel moves. The Redskins also announced early in the offseason that Robert Griffin III would be the starting quarterback — ending any controversy before it could begin.
The draft brought an emphasis on size and volume, as the team amassed 10 picks and earned widespread praise in the industry for its strategy. But having won just seven games the past two seasons, and with one winning season since 2007, this probably won’t be a speedy turnaround.
OFFENSE For a coach who came in with a reputation as an offensive savant, Gruden’s first year steering the Redskins’ offense was a disaster. The quarterback position became a revolving door of mediocrity, and the three starters — Griffin, Kirk Cousins and Colt McCoy — were sacked a staggering total of 58 times.
Meanwhile the running game, behind top back Alfred Morris, regressed from the year before. Morris, in his third year, saw his carries, yards and yards per carry decline for the second straight year.
Tom DiPace
Alfred Morris, RB
But Gruden and McCloughan ended the QB controversy early in the offseason by not only naming Griffin the starter but also picking up his costly option for 2016 — a surprising show of confidence. Then they set about building Griffin a better offensive line. They used three of their 10 draft picks on offensive linemen — including their top pick, fifth overall, on Iowa tackle Brandon Scherff. He is expected to start the season at right guard but should move to tackle before too long. They also used a third-round pick to take running back Matt Jones out of Florida, a big, punishing runner.
on personal mottos, from 2012’s “Know Your Why” to 2013’s “All In For Week One” to 2014’s “This Is For Us.” But after absorbing copious amounts of criticism for his penchant for oversharing with the media and on his own social-media accounts, Griffin has been determined to scale back in both regards. That may explain why, for a 2015 motto, he appears to be going with, “Talk Small and Play Big.”
With DeSean Jackson (a league-leading 20.9 yards per reception), Pierre Garçon and Andre Roberts as wideouts and Jordan Reed at tight end, the Redskins have solid skill-position targets for Griffin. The key in 2015 will be protecting him better. If he gets sacked at a rate of roughly four per game, as he did in 2014, it will be another long year.
DEFENSE The Redskins have almost totally revamped a defense that badly needed revamping. Change started at the top, when the team parted ways with embattled coordinator Jim Haslett and tabbed Chargers linebackers coach Joe Barry as his replacement. Next, the Redskins severed ties with pass rusher Brian Orakpo, who never developed into the dominant player the team envisioned when it picked him in the first round of the 2009 draft.
But despite — or perhaps because of — the faith the Redskins showed in him, this will be a pivotal season for Griffin. If he has any hope of recapturing the dynamism he showed as a rookie in 2012 (if that is even possible after two injury-plagued seasons), it needs to happen in 2015. Griffin has always been big
With Cousins and McCoy both expected to be on the roster again, Gruden probably won’t wait long to pull the trigger on a quarterback change if Griffin doesn’t play big.
The leader of Barry’s defense now is unquestionably WASHINGTON, 76
WASHINGTON REDSKINS
76 FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
The Northern Virginia Daily
Washington
a potential return man (wide receiver Jamison Crowder), a core coverage man (safety Kyshoen Jarrett) and at least Continued from 75 two other players who could have immediate impacts on special teams outside linebacker Ryan Kerrigan, who (linebacker Spaight and receiver Evan Spencer). Otherwise, most of the major established himself as arguably the players from 2014 — punter Tress Way, best in the NFC East with 13.5 sacks kicker Kai Forbath, long snapper Nick and five forced fumbles in 2014. To Sundberg and primary return man build around Kerrigan, the Redskins Roberts — all return in 2015. The most turned both to free agency (linemen Stephen Paea and Terrance Knighton, immediate question will be whether and defensive backs Jeron Johnson and Crowder, the fourth-round pick, supChris Culliver) and the draft, where plants Roberts as the top puntreturn they used two of their top six draft man. Don’t be surprised as well if picks on linebackers — Mississippi Forbath, an accurate kicker but one State’s Preston Smith, who could lacking in length, finds himself fending become Orakpo’s replacement on the off a challenger for his job in training edge, and tackling machine Martrell camp. Spaight of Arkansas. FINAL ANALYSIS McCloughan also turned to his past in In previous Redskins seasons, manbolstering the defensive line and secagement may have chosen to blow up ondary, signing lineman Ricky Jeanthe franchise by ditching Griffin, tradFrancois and trading for two-time Pro ing away picks to move up in the draft Bowl free safety Dashon Goldson, both and nabbing the latest flavor-of-theof whom he selected in the draft at pre- month phenom signal-caller. To their vious stops. credit, McCloughan and Gruden avoidIt is possible, when it all shakes out, ed that temptation and did exactly the that the Redskins could have six new opposite — doubling down on Griffin as starters on defense, a staggering num- their starting quarterback, trading ber — until you realize how bad this down in the draft to stockpile extra unit was in 2014. picks and emerging with some new cornerstone players and a lot of added SPECIALISTS depth. As before, so much of the offenIt’s difficult to recall a time when the Redskins’ special teams were anything sive success comes down to keeping other than abysmal. It’s no wonder the Griffin healthy and on his feet. If the team targeted this area in their draft newly rebuilt offensive line is as solid haul of 10 picks, taking, among others, as the Redskins hope, that will be much
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easier to envision, and may even deliver a boost to a running game that hasn’t been the same since Griffin stopped being a significant running threat himself. Defensively, there will be new looks both up front and in the secondary. With Orakpo gone and veteran cornerback DeAngelo Hall likely fighting to keep his job in training camp, the very soul of the defense is in the process of being transformed — which, if you know anything about the Redskins, can only be seen as a good thing. This probably isn’t a teamthat can challenge the Cowboys and Eagles atop the division in 2015, but even a finish somewhere around .500 — which is entirely possible — would be considered a significant step in the right direction.
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PITTSBURGH STEELERS
The Northern Virginia Daily
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
77
Tough act to follow
Building on an 11–5 season and an AFC North title won’t be easy for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The offense is loaded and returns every starter from a unit that averaged 411.1 yards per game last season, second best in the NFL. But the defense is a serious work in progress after the Steelers managed just 33 sacks last season, their lowest total since 1989, and allowed 4.4 yards per carry.
The Steelers’ opponents combined for a .578 winning percentage last season, the highest in the league. What’s more, the Steelers have to visit Seattle, San Diego, Kansas City and St. Louis after playing no games west of the Mississippi River in 2014. Pittsburgh parlayed a favorable schedule last season and a breakout campaign by the offense into its first division title since2010. It will be much tougher for them to repeat as division champions, especially in the rugged AFC The schedule doesn’t do the team any favors, and by at least one measure it is the most difficult in the NFL. North. OFFENSE Mike Tomlin has hardly tempered expectations for the unit that carried the Steelers last season. The ninthyear coach said at the NFL owners meetings inlate March that the Steelers could have the best offense in the NFL this season because they “have the goods.” He won’t get any arguments in Pittsburgh or beyond the Steel City. The Steelers have arguably the best quarter- and plays bigger than his listed size of 5'10", 186 back-running back-widereceiver trio in the NFL in Ben pounds because of his ability to separate and make contested catches in traffic. If Brown’s production dips this Roethlisberger, Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown. season, it could be because the Steelers have an emergRoethlisberger threw for 4,952 yards last season and ing star in second-year wideout Martavis Bryant as became the first player in franchise history to win a well as Markus Wheaton, who made a significant leap passing title (he shared the honor with Drew in his second season after playing sparingly as a rookie. Brees).Roethlisberger, who turned 33 in March, is As good as Roethlisberger and Brown were last seaseemingly getting better with age. Andthe Steelers son, Bell won the Steelers’ MVP Award — as voted on backed up general manager Kevin Colbert’s assertion by the players — and for good reason. The secondyear that Roethlisberger’s best playing days are still ahead man rushed for 1,361 yards and led all NFL running of him by signing Big Ben to a five-year contract extenbacks with 854 receiving yards. There is not a better sion that could be worth as much as $108 million. all-around back than Bell, who also excels at picking up Roethlisberger has reigned in the sandlot style that blitzing linebackers. The Steelers have to hope that defined him earlier in his career in large part because DeAngelo Williams can do a credible job of filling in for the players around him are better. Brown led the NFL PITTSBURGH, 78 in catches (129) and receiving yards (1,698) last season
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PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Pittsburgh Continued from 77
Bell, who is out at the start of the season because of an NFL suspension. The offensive line returns intact and is still young but also experienced. Maurkice Pouncey re-established himself as one of the top centers in the NFL last season after coming back from a major knee injury. Right guard David DeCastro is the Steelers’ best pulling guard since perennial Pro Bowler Alan Faneca. DEFENSE It wasn’t that long ago that questions about whether the Steelers’ defense had gotten too old were as much an autumn ritual in Western Pennsylvania
as the leaves changing colors. Not anymore. The average age of the Steelers’ projected starters on defense is 26.5. That number dips if rookie Bud Dupree, the team’s first-round pick, beats out Arthur Moats at left outside linebacker. The Steelers have a new defensive coordinator with former linebackers coach Keith Butler taking over for Dick LeBeau. Butler won’t stray from the LeBeau’s core philosophy of shutting down the run first and foremost or the Steelers’ base 34 defense. He will try to simplify the defense to accommodate the youth he has inherited, and Butler has said that the Steelers have to become more opportunistic. They forced more than two turnovers in a game just twice last season, and they have 41 takeaways in their last two seasons. To put that into perspective, consider that the Steelers had 35 takeaways in 2010 alone, the last time they made the Super Bowl. The linebackers playing to their pedigree could go a long way toward the Steelers fielding the kind of defense that can complement the offense. They should, at some point, have former first-round
• The Cleveland Browns rolled out a food waste-to-energy program in 2013, the first NFL stadium to do so. A grinder is used in stadium kitchens, sending scraps to be composted elsewhere where renewable methane gas is collected, enough to power 32 homes for one month.
• Super Bowl 2015 in Arizona diverted 73 percent of the event’s waste through recycling, food composting, a ban on Styrofoam and substituting disposable containers with plastic take home versions.
picks starting at all four linebacker spots. Two of those players in particular are key. Right outside linebacker Jarvis Jones has to make a big jump in his third season after missing most of 2014 because of a dislocated wrist. Ryan Shazier may be the most likely candidate to break out after a high-ankle sprain and normal rookie growing pains limited the 15th overall pick of the 2014 draft last season. Shazier’s speed and ability to play in space make him more valuable than ever with the Steelers playing their nickel defense more than 50 percent of the time. He is a playmaker, and the competition at inside linebacker, the Steelers’ deepest position, should only bring out the best in Shazier.
tions about how well both can cover.
SPECIALISTS Shaun Suisham tore an ACL during the first preseason game, so the Steelers have turned to veteran Garrett Hartley to handle the kicking duties. Punter Brad Wing has to become more consistent in his second season, and the former LSU AllAmerican will be challenged after having training camp all to himself last season. The Steelers have to get more out of kickoff returns after averaging only 21.7 yards per return last season. They drafted Dri Archer in the third round in 2014 to give them a jolt in the return game. He fared so poorly that he lost his job as the team’s primary kickoff returner before the midway point of the season. Archer, The secondary has gotten the fastest player on the team, younger, and third-year man has to emerge this season or he Shamarko Thomas gets the first is in danger of becoming a bust. crack at replacing the iconic FINAL ANALYSIS Troy Polamalu at strong safety. The offense may have to carry Defensive backs coach Carnell the Steelers until a defense in Lake has said that the Steelers’ transition comes together. The two safety positions are interoffense should be a tour de force changeable, but does the team if it stays relatively healthy, have a player who can cover though the Steelers have to ample ground on the back end of start faster. They managed just their defense? Thomas and 19 points on 16 opening drives starting free safety Mike last season, and scoring first Mitchell are big hitters who sup- could help take some pressure off the defense. Few people port the run. There are ques-
• Pittsburgh’s “Let’s Tackle Recycling” program has become a mainstay at Heinz Field where tailgaters are offered recycling bags by volunteers.
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• The Philadelphia Eagles divert 99 percent of waste from Lincoln Financial Field by employing recycling, food diversion and the use of corn-based food and beverage containers. Cooking oil is converted to biodiesel. Started in 2010, the stadium’s recycling program has increased 209%. The stadium is powered solely by wind and solar energy.
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expected the Steelers to win 11 games last season, and it will be hard to duplicate that number in 2015. Ten victories could be enough to repeat as AFC North champions if the Steelers win at least four division games.
• Last season, the Carolina Panthers diverted 129 tons of materials from landfills through recycling and food waste diversion.
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The Northern Virginia Daily
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28, 2015
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