Friday Night Live 2020 Central Ohio High School Football Preview Guide

2020 Central Ohio High School Football Preview Guide September 3, 2020

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FEATURES Cover story.....................5 Staff predictions .............6 Weekly schedules.........28 OCC-OHIO Gahanna Lincoln.............7 Westland........................7 Grove City .....................8 New Albany....................9 Pickerington North........10 Westerville Central........11 OCC-BUCKEYE Pickerington Central .....12 Lancaster.....................13 Groveport Madison .......14 Newark ........................14 Reynoldsburg ...............15 Central Crossing ...........16 OCC-CENTRAL Dublin Coffman ............17 Hilliard Bradley .............18 Hilliard Davidson...........19 Olentangy Orange ........20 Olentangy Liberty .........21 Upper Arlington.............22

OCC-CARDINAL Dublin Jerome..............23 Olentangy Berlin ...........24 Thomas Worthington.....24 Marysville ....................25 Hilliard Darby................26 Olentangy.....................27 OCC-CAPITAL Big Walnut....................30 Franklin Heights ...........30 Canal Winchester..........31 Westerville North ..........32 Westerville South..........32 Delaware Hayes ...........33 Dublin Scioto................34 Worthington Kilbourne ..35 CCL Hartley .........................36 DeSales .......................37 Watterson ....................38

E DITOR ’ S The season is headed into the second week of games and the Friday Night Live 2020 Central Ohio High School Football Preview Guide is in your hands – finally.

The annual guide was published a week later than usual because of the uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

We’ve always said the guide wasn’t a pre-

MID-STATE LEAGUE Bexley..........................39 Buckeye Valley .............39 Columbus Academy......40 Grandview Heights........41 Whitehall-Yearling.........41 Harvest Prep ................42 Ready ..........................42 Grove City Christian ......44 Hamilton Township .......45 Worthington Christian ...45 LICKING COUNTY LEAGUE Granville.......................46 Watkins Memorial.........46 Licking Heights.............47 Licking Valley ...............48 Johnstown-Monroe ......49 Heath...........................49 Lakewood ....................50 Newark Catholic ...........50 Northridge....................51 Utica ............................52 OTHER AREA TEAMS Columbus Crusaders ....53

NOTE

view just for Week 1, but that it has a shelf life that lasts the entire season in addition to being a keepsake. Unfortunately, teams that had their seasons delayed or postponed are not in the guide.

We appreciate your patience and are wishing every team and its fans a successful and safe season.

Lee Cochran, editor

5

C OVER S TORY

Teams adjust to challenges on, off field

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

As the remainder of his team funneled in from practice in a spaced out manner Aug. 13, coach Jay Sharrett of defending Division I state champion Pickerington Central made announcements to a small group of players who were sitting in chairs strategically located six feet apart while he and those listening wore face coverings.

Hand sanitizer stations were located on the edge of the school’s field house, a building that is large enough to take the place of the locker room, which the Tigers didn’t use throughout the summer.

Earlier that day, Gov. Mike DeWine announced he would be providing guidelines for competition a few days later since teams in contact sports still weren’t allowed up to that point to have events against opposing schools.

Weeks of waiting to find out if they would even have a season during the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic may have worn on the resolve of central Ohio’s current premier big-school program, but it didn’t quash it.

“They’ve done a really good job,” Sharrett said. “None of them like wearing masks, but they do it. This is our locker room that you see in here and our chairs are in about 11to 12-foot squares. We’ve got 100 guys in grades 10-12 so there’s no way we can get into our locker room.

These guys, they’ve taken to it. It’s not perfect but if we get to go out there and get dirty and play football, we’ll be happy.”

Before the Tigers opened Aug. 30 against Pickerington North, they, like every other team in Ohio, had experienced an emotional roller coaster since the winter sports season was shut down March 12.

Another high school event wasn’t held again until golf, a non-contact sport that allows for natural social distancing, began having competitions Aug. 5.

Teams in all prep sports, including football, were cleared to begin practicing in phases in late May, but contact sports teams weren’t allowed to begin competing against opposing programs until Aug. 21.

According to Sharrett, there were times over the past few weeks where “you’re just drained” at the end of the day because of the uncertainty.

It was a feeling shared by coaches and players throughout the state as the Ohio High School Athletic Association and NCAA canceled spring sports, surrounding states such as Michigan moved their prep football seasons to the spring and the Big Ten, Pac-12 and smaller NCAA divisions did the same thing.

“It’s been really difficult, but we’ve been able to overcome and work to the best of our ability, to keep going and keep training over the summer,” Olentangy Liberty senior center Matthew Wrather said. “When we came in at the beginning of the summer, we didn’t know if we were going to have a season or not. So now we just want to go every day like it’s our last day.”

had a lot of challenges this year and obviously it’s been an abnormal offseason to say the least.”

A season unlike any other

Like all area programs, first-year Upper Arlington coach Justin Buttermore and the Golden Bears had to make adjustments while preparing for the football season.

LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

Dealing with the pandemic

Among the precautions Reynoldsburg attempted to take throughout the summer – when it was able to practice – was sanitizing the ball as often as possible.

The Raiders, though, endured the pandemic firsthand as well.

The program had two players test positive for COVID-19, forcing a temporary shutdown in early July.

A parent of a Reynoldsburg player is no longer in the hospital but has found recovery from the virus to be a slow process, according to coach Buddy White.

“I have two (players) that got it this summer. They got it from home and I see how it really screwed (the) family up,” White said. “Even though these kids might not get gravely ill, they come out here and practice for two hours and they’re sitting up there sweating all over each other and they

go home and shower because they’re not allowed to shower here at our facility. But we’re doing such a great job with social distancing, at least as good as you can do while playing football. Everything is sanitized and we do an incredible job here.”

Other programs from central Ohio, including Westerville Central, Bexley and Harvest Prep, also had players test positive over the summer and had their programs go through temporary suspensions.

Harvest Prep had an athlete attend a camp out of state where many attendees “didn’t social distance and didn’t wear masks,” according to coach Milan Smith, so the athlete elected to get a test when he returned. He was asymptomatic but tested positive and his exposure to another teammate led the program to go on a twoweek suspension.

Recommendations by both

Franklin County Public Health and Columbus Public Health in late July also influenced many programs throughout central Ohio to pause activity.

Columbus City Schools, which has 15 football programs, allowed its teams to practice the first two weeks of August before suspending all extracurricular activities indefinitely Aug. 13.

Gahanna Lincoln athletics were temporarily postponed July 31, which kept the Lions from participating in the first full day of official practice the next day.

“It’s been an emotional roller coaster,” Gahanna coach Bruce Ward said. “One minute you think you’re playing, one minute you think you’re not. It’s just been a heck of a year, but we’re excited to be back, have some momentum and have some vision where we’re going. We’ve

While no one is positive what the season might bring because of the uncertainties involving the pandemic, the schedule itself dictates this season won’t be like those in the past.

The OHSAA announced Aug. 4 that schools would be allowed to seek rights fees from local media outlets or video production companies to provide live video of regular-season games in anticipation that attendance would be limited.

Three days later, the OHSAA informed schools that the regular season would be shortened to six games and the playoffs would begin Oct. 9, which is four weeks earlier than originally scheduled.

The schedule alteration, according to the OHSAA, was recommended by the governor’s office to “shorten the season due to concerns that COVID-19 may spike in early winter.”

In addition, for the first time, every team will make the playoffs and the computer ratings used to determine playoff positioning will be suspended for this season.

Schools must commit to participate in the playoffs by Sept. 17 and playoff regions will be drawn the next day, with coaches in each region conducting a tournament seeding meeting the week of Sept. 28 to determine the regional bracket.

According to Smith, who guided Harvest Prep to a Division VII state semifinal last season but has had his program move up to Division V this fall, the idea of every team making the playoffs is a concept that will take adjustment.

There could be as many as seven rounds of playoffs, depending on how many teams elect to enter.

Teams can choose to continue their regular season if they don’t compete in the postseason and also can continue playing games if they lose in the playoffs, as long as they conclude their season by Nov. 14.

State championship weekend is set for Nov. 19-21, but sites for the finals have not been decided.

The OHSAA earns 80 percent of its revenue from ticket sales.

The fall postseason, which will feature championships in 10 sports, will be the first significant opportunity for the OHSAA to earn revenue since the remainder of the winter sports season was canceled just minutes before the state girls basketball tournament was set to begin in March.

“The OHSAA is not stupid,” Smith said. “They know what they’re doing. It’s no secret they lost a ton of money in basketball and track (from the spring) without having tournament play for both. What a great way to help offset those costs and expenditures by adding additional playoffs and a ton of additional teams. Do I understand the logic?

Yes. Can I appreciate the approach?

Yes. I’m struggling with the whole thing about the playoffs in that the regular season with everybody mak-

ADJUST >> 25

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S EASON P REDICTIONS

Lee Cochran

Stephen Borgna

Frank DiRenna

Scott Hennen

Dave Purpura Sportswriter

Sports copy editor

Andy Resnik

Jarrod Ulrey

Pickerington Central

Central

Central

Central

Central

Central

Central

OCC-Capital

Canal Winchester

Canal Winchester

Westerville South

Dublin Scioto

Canal Winchester

Canal Winchester

Canal Winchester

OCC-Cardinal

Dublin Jerome

Hilliard Darby

Dublin Jerome

Olentangy Berlin

Olentangy

Olentangy

Dublin Jerome

OCC-Central

Dublin Coffman

Dublin Coffman

Dublin Coffman

Dublin Coffman

Upper Arlington

Dublin Coffman

Dublin Coffman

New Albany

New Albany

Hartley

Hartley

Hartley

Hartley

Hartley

Hartley

Hartley

LCL-Buckeye

Granville

Granville

Granville

Licking Valley

Licking Valley

Licking Valley

Licking Valley

LCL-Cardinal

Johnstown

Johnstown

Johnstown

Johnstown

Johnstown

Johnstown

Newark Catholic

MSL-Buckeye

Teays Valley

Bloom-Carroll

Teays Valley

Hamilton Township

Bloom-Carroll

Teays Valley

Teays Valley

MSL-Cardinal

Fisher Catholic

Worth. Christian

Worth. Christian

Fisher Catholic

Fisher Catholic

Worth. Christian

Worth. Christian

Harvest Prep

Harvest Prep

Harvest Prep

Harvest Prep

Harvest Prep

Harvest Prep

Harvest Prep

Managing Editor

OCC-Buckeye

OCC-Ohio CCL

MSL-Ohio

Sportswriter

Sportswriter

Sportswriter

Sportswriter

Westerville Central Westerville Central Westerville Central Westerville Central Westerville Central

ON THE COVER

With the football season underway after a summer of uncertainty, Westerville Central quarterback Judah Holtzclaw is expecting a big senior season after being named first-team all-league and alldistrict and third-team all-state a year ago.

PHOTO BY LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

On the field. In the locker room. On the recruiting trail.

Featuring...

POSITIONAL-BATTLE UPDATES • OPINION • RECRUITING • BREAKING NEWS ANALYSIS OF THE COACHING STAFF • EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS & VIDEO • & MORE

Trademarks of The Ohio State University used with permission.

7

OCC-O HIO D IVISION

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Gahanna Lincoln

Lions boast experience, confidence

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

“Weird” was the word that senior two-way lineman Tommy Bailey used to describe what Gahanna Lincoln went through the past few weeks before it opened Aug. 28 at Reynoldsburg.

By the time they played their opener, the Lions had been competing in full pads for just a little more than two weeks.

“Going through the different phases of workouts over the summer, there were some people you might not see at practice for weeks because they were there at different times,” Bailey said. “These past few weeks of more normal team practices have been a blessing not only to be back with the full team, but to (have) a bit of normalcy in my life.”

Helping to bring things back on track for the Lions is they return key players in nearly every area after closing 2019 with wins in three of their final four games.

Gahanna went just 3-7 overall but finished third in the OCC-Ohio Division at 3-2, placing ahead of a Reynoldsburg team that qualified for the Division I playoffs.

The Lions’ first seven games included six opponents that made the postseason, including an opening loss to eventual Division I state runner-up Cincinnati Elder (416) and a Week 6 loss to eventual state champion Pickerington Central (49-28).

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28............at Reynoldsburg *Sept. 4 ..................at Westland *Sept. 11...........vs. New Albany *Sept. 18..at Westerville Central *Sept. 25 .............vs. Grove City *Oct. 2......at Pickerington North 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 3-2 OCC-Ohio) Cincinnati Elder .............L, 41-6 Dublin Coffman ...........L, 45-28 Hartley ........................L, 38-21 New Albany.................L, 41-17 Westerville Central.........L, 37-6 *Pickerington Central...L, 49-28 *Reynoldsburg............W, 29-28 *Lancaster..................W, 28-25 *Grove City ...................W, 41-7 *Pickerington North .......L, 21-9 *League contest INSIDE THE LIONS •Coach: Bruce Ward, seventh season •Top players: Ricky Alli (RB/LB), Tommy Bailey (OL/DL), Kane Baker (WR/DB),Trey Burger (QB), Ronald Blackman (RB/DB), Mondra Curry (RB/LB), Mykohl Martin (OL/DL), Brendon Raymond (WR/DB) and Jaden Yates (RB/LB) •Key losses: Luke Baker, Joey Butts, Massimo Giuliani, Khalil Johnson, Cam Morris, A’che Sanchez-Baccus,Albert Simpson, Josiah Smith, Grant Terry, Will Thomas, Mason Weber, Travis Whittaker, Qwyn Williams and Adrian Yates

While Pickerington Central, Lancaster and Reynoldsburg have moved to the OCC-Buckeye, Gahanna remains in the OCC-Ohio with Pickerington North and Grove City while New Albany, Westerville Central and Westland round out the new alignment.

Bruce Ward is in his seventh season as Gahanna’s coach. The Lions lost their first six games a year ago before winning three of four to finish 3-7 overall and 3-2 in the OCC-Ohio. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

Westerville Central was a Division I playoff qualifier, and New Albany went 7-3 last season.

The Lions have a new offensive coordinator in Chuck Andrick, a former Brookhaven and Beechcroft assistant who served on Capital University’s staff the last two years. Murad Holliday is a holdover from the staff who is working as defensive coordinator.

Coach Bruce Ward led Beechcroft before taking over at Gahanna in 2014, but this is the first time he has had Andrick on his coaching staff.

“The good thing is that we’re definitely going to make the playoffs,” Ward said, referring to the fact that every team is eligible to make the postseason this fall. “The kids need it. It’s been a crazy 2020. For

us at Gahanna, it’s been a crazy 360-some days.”

OFFENSE

The Lions’ two biggest playmakers last season, quarterback Will Thomas and running back Travis Whittaker, were lost to graduation.

Senior Trey Burger missed time last fall with a shoulder injury but began this season as the starting quarterback.

Senior Ricky Alli gained experience at running back and is joined at that position by senior Ronald Blackman, who spent time last fall at wide receiver.

One of the Lions’ strengths will be their depth at wide receiver, led by juniors Kane Baker (10 receptions for 92 yards, 1 TD), Brendon Raymond (12 receptions for 255

yards, 5 TDs) and Romearo Wells (10 receptions for 174 yards, 2 TDs). Senior Jordan Lowery, who had 15 receptions for 116 yards for Pickerington North last season, has transferred back to Gahanna after spending his first two prep seasons with the Lions.

“Trey Burger missed a lot of time last year, so he’s champing at the bit to compete,” Ward said. “He’s a senior and he’s been around and has that leadership quality about himself. He’s eager to prove what he can do.”

Bailey returns at left tackle to anchor a line that also includes senior Dale Jones at center, seniors Mykohl Martin and Adam Sophocleous at guard and senior Marcus White at right tackle.

DEFENSE

There were few players who entered last season with experience on defense, but that won’t be the case this fall.

The Lions hope to be strong in the middle of the field with Alli, junior Jabez Hill and sophomore Jaden Yates returning at linebacker. Sophomore Tyree Johnson and senior Mylin Brown also should be at that position.

Alli had 50 tackles last season.

Senior Mondra Curry returns at cornerback after making 42 tackles a year ago.

He is joined in the secondary

by Blackman, Raymond and junior free safety A.J. Crim.

Baker, while Lowery and sophomore Makai Shahid are

LIONS >> 8

Westland

Cougars starting to build confidence, depth

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM When Rick Rios took over at Westland in 2018, he hoped to soon build a program that featured depth at several positions.

The third-year coach believes he is closing in on that goal.

“The guys that are with us now might be the best of the group,” Rios said. “We’re two- and three-deep at every position on the perimeter. That’s been a huge problem. If one guy went out, we were in trouble. It’s a great sign. I believe it takes three years to change a culture of a program and this is year three. We had a great January and February before we got shut down (because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic).

“You could tell the difference what it was like when I first got here to what it’s like this year. It’s nice to

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .................................at Groveport *Sept. 4.................................vs. Gahanna *Sept. 11..................at Pickerington North *Sept. 18............................at New Albany *Sept. 25 ................vs. Westerville Central *Oct. 2..................................at Grove City 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-5 OCC-Central) Licking Heights ..........................W, 48-28 Marion-Franklin...........................L, 37-34 Delaware ......................................L, 49-6 Franklin Heights ..........................L, 28-18 Olentangy Orange .........................L, 52-0 *Upper Arlington..........................L, 41-23

coach guys that the light bulb is starting to come on. They’re getting what we expect and what we’re doing.”

Westland opened Aug. 28 at Groveport and begins OCC-Ohio Division play Friday, Sept. 4, against visiting

*Marysville..................................L, 36-14 *Central Crossing ........................L, 17-13 *Dublin Coffman..........................L, 44-12 *Hilliard Davidson........................L, 31-13 *League contest INSIDE THE COUGARS •Coach: Rick Rios, third season •Top players: Colton Bogle (OL), Jovaan Cooper (QB), Payton Hayes (OL/DL), Hayden Hughes (OL/DL), Jakob Hurley (LB), Jack Little (WR) and Tim Smith (RB/DB) •Key losses: Kyle Bowles, Robert Clark, Bakar Dabo, Johnny Douglas, Peterson Iresne and Nick Spires

Gahanna.

The regular-season schedule consists of six games and all teams are eligible to participate in the playoffs.

“With the work that we’ve been

putting in in the offseason and the work that we keep putting in, we’re going to have a great team this year,” senior two-way lineman Hayden Hughes said.

“Our guys keep working hard, getting better every day and that’s all we can ask for.”

Westland went 1-9 in each of Rios’ first two seasons. It is looking to end a 25-game losing streak in the OCC, with its last league win being a 35-7 victory over Thomas Worthington on Sept. 24, 2015.

The regular season concludes with a game at Grove City on Oct. 2. The teams last met in 1998, with the Dawgs winning 33-13, and Grove City leads the all-time series 17-5.

Westland has had 12 consecutive losing seasons and last qualified for the playoffs in 2006.

“I love what I see,” Rios said. “It’s not perfect, but it’s getting better.”

OFFENSE

While it has improved depth at several positions, Westland lacks experience at quarterback.

Junior Jovaan Cooper earned the starting position in the preseason and will direct the team’s spread offense.

“Quarterback is a big question mark for us, but (Cooper) so far has really picked things up quickly and I feel really good about him,” Rios said.

The Cougars also have a new look at running back after the graduation of Peterson Iresne and Johnny Douglas. Iresne led the team in rushing last season with 984 yards and 11 touchdowns on 187 carries, and Douglas added 269 yards and a touchdown on 48 carries.

Junior Tim Smith will play tailback, with senior Antonio Martinez and sophomore Semaje Westmore-

COUGARS >> 25

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8

OCC-O HIO D IVISION

Grove City

Dawgs excited for new era under Shaul

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM As a former player and assistant coach in the program, Matt Shaul understands the history of Grove City football.

That is why he’s looking forward to the challenge of guiding the Dawgs and turning things around.

“We have great kids,” Shaul said. “Our team is made up of just awesome families and kids who care about football. They want to be together and make our team better.”

Shaul, a math teacher at the school, had been an assistant coach in the program since 2014. A 2001 graduate who played quarterback for the Dawgs, Shaul replaced Tennyson Varney, who stepped down after three seasons to take over Hamilton Township, his alma mater.

Grove City kicked off a sixgame regular-season by playing Central Crossing on Aug. 28. The Dawgs open OCCOhio Division play Friday, Sept. 4, at New Albany.

Because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and the abbreviated regular season, all teams are eligible to participate in the playoffs.

Grove City went 1-9 last year and is seeking its first winning season since 2013, when it finished 6-4.

The Dawgs have a new look at quarterback, as senior Jared Knight transferred to Pickerington North. Grove City plays host to North on Sept. 18 in an OCC-Ohio contest.

Shaul said junior Landon Yokum and sophomore Zakk Tschirhart competed for the starting job in the preseason.

A key returnee is senior Cole Becker, who will see time at running back and linebacker.

“We’re still trying to figure some things out,” Becker said. “We’re not the biggest team. We don’t have a bunch of 6-(foot-)5 guys who are just monsters, but we have a lot of kids who are just tough and they’ll just come for you.

We’re starting to come together and we look pretty good.”

After working through a

Lukas Hamilton will start at wide receiver for first-year coach Matt Shaul, a 2001 Grove City graduate. The Dawgs are coming off a 1-9 season. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

limited preseason, Shaul said his team is looking forward to competing in the regular season and the playoffs.

“We’re happy any time we’re together,” he said. “It’s a great day to be out here playing football. Any opportunity that we get to be together, we’re going to make the most of it, get better as a team, as a program, as individuals, to learn the game and love one another. ... It’s a hungry team.

It’s a hungry group of kids who are motivated to do well.”

OFFENSE

The Dawgs again will utilize a wing-T scheme after switching from a spread offense last season.

Shaul said both quarterbacks competing for the starting spot could contribute.

“They (both) bring something different to the table,” he said. “It would have been nice to see them in scrimmage competition to really see what they’re all made of to elevate our team, but we’re going to find ways to make them compete and elevate their game.”

Key tailbacks are seniors

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........at Central Crossing *Sept. 4..................at New Albany *Sept. 11 ....vs. Westerville Central *Sept. 18 ....vs. Pickerington North *Sept. 25 ...................at Gahanna *Oct. 2 ......................vs. Westland 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-5 OCC-Ohio) Hilliard Davidson ...............L, 27-0 Westerville Central ............L, 56-7 Central Crossing.............W, 18-15 Marysville..........................L 37-3 Canal Winchester ..............L, 38-7 *Lancaster ......................L, 34-12

*Pickerington North .........L, 38-13 *Reynoldsburg ..................L, 35-0 *Gahanna .........................L, 41-7 *Pickerington Central ........L, 42-6 *League contest INSIDE THE DAWGS •Coach: Matt Shaul, first season •Top players: Austin Allmon (TE/DL), Cole Becker (RB/LB), Carter Binford (WR/DB), Justin Catalfina (WR/DB) and Hayden Yerian (RB/LB) •Key losses: Cole Crager, Jared Knight, Blake Stevens and Joey Woolard

Getz and junior Will Bully.

“We have a bunch of guys on the defensive line that can just run, so we’re really excited about the energy that they bring,” Shaul said.

Gordon and senior Carter Binford will play safety, with Franklin and senior A.J. Stoll at cornerback. Isaacs and Mills also will contribute at safety.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Tyler Lantzy returns to handle the kicking and punting duties.

Bully is the long snapper, with Franklin and Gordon returning kickoffs and junior Dennis Ritlinger-Nirider returning punts.

T.J. Franklin and Caden Gordon.

Trevor Mills will play fullback and Christian Isaacs is at wingback. Both are sophomores.

Senior Justin Catalfina, who last season led the team with nine catches for 120 yards and a touchdown, and senior Lukas Hamilton return at receiver.

Senior Austin Allmon will play tight end.

The line is led by senior Nick Getz at center. Junior Jacob Nelson will play tackle, and other key linemen are sen-

iors Jaden Smith and Riley Smouther and sophomore Isaac Carter.

Shaul said the three starting linebackers in the 4-3 base defense are the core of the unit.

Becker and seniors Tyler Biddle and Hayden Yerian should start at linebacker, and junior Zach Combs also should contribute.

Shaul expects several players to rotate into action on the line. Key players are seniors Dennis Chadeya and Robert

Offense Quarterbacks: Zakk Tschirhart (so., 5-11, 150), Landon Yokum (jr., 5-10, 170) Running backs: *Caden Gordon (sr., 5-6, 150), *Trevor Mills (so., 6-0, 185), T.J. Franklin (sr., 5-8, 150), Christian Isaacs (so., 6-0, 180) Receivers: *Justin Catalfina (sr., 6-0, 155), *Lukas Hamilton (sr., 5-11, 165), Hunter Stansell (sr., 5-11, 170)

kicking extra points.

Blackman returned 18 kickoffs last season and is joined on the return team by Alli.

Receivers: *Kane Baker (jr., 5-9, 160), *Jordan Lowery (sr., 6-3, 171), *Brendon Raymond (jr., 5-10, 159), Romearo Wells (so., 5-10, 150) Tight end: *Mylin Brown (sr., 6-1, 200), Kamari Burns (so., 6-2, 229), Elijah King (fr., 6-4, 210) Linemen: *Tommy Bailey (sr., 6-4, 281), *Dale Jones (sr., 5-9, 219), *Mykohl Martin (sr., 6-3, 300), *Adam Sophocleous (sr., 6-1, 240),

*Marcus White (sr., 6-3, 270), Isaac Perkins (so., 6-3, 283) Defense Linemen: *Bailey, *Burns, *Martin, *Shawn Ugbana (sr., 6-1, 220), King, Perkins Lineebac Lin ackkers: *Alli,*Jabez Hill (jr., 6-1, 200), *Yates, Barton, Brown, Tyree Johnson (so., 5-8, 220) Secondary: *A.J. Crim (jr., 6-0, 172), *Mondra Curry (sr., 5-11, 165), Baker, Blackman, Lowery, Raymond, Makai

DEFENSE

THE LINEUP

Tight end: *Austin Allmon (sr. 6-4, 205) Linemen: *Isaac Carter (so., 6-1, 225), *Nick Getz (sr., 60, 210), *Jacob Nelson (jr., 59, 230), Jaden Smith (sr., 63, 205), Riley Smouther (sr., 6-3, 210) Defense Linemen: *Will Bully (jr., 6-0, 250), *Dennis Chadeya (sr., 6-3, 205), *Robert Getz (sr., 6-1, 185), Bobby Adams (sr., 5-11, 275), Michael Hooffstetter (sr., 6-2, 215) Linebackers: *Cole Becker (sr., 6-0, 205), *Tyler Biddle (sr., 5-9, 180), *Hayden Yerian (sr., 5-10, 210), Nate Bolin (sr., 5-10, 175), Zach Combs (jr., 6-1, 210) Secondary: *Carter Binford (sr., 6-2, 190), *Franklin, *Gordon, *A.J. Stoll (sr., 59, 150), Isaacs, Mills Special teams Kicker: *Tyler Lantzy (sr., 6-0, 180) Punter: *Lantzy Returners: Franklin, Gordon, Dennis Ritlinger-Nirider (jr., 5-9, 160) Long snapper: *Bully (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

LIONS

FROM >> 7

others in the mix.

Martin is the top returning lineman. Sophomore Kamari Burns, senior Shawn Ugbana and Bailey are others who should contribute up front.

“We have some kids back,” Ward said. “We had a young defense last year, so we’ve got a lot back on defense. Jaden Yates was a freshman starting linebacker last year and he’s

gotten a lot bigger, gaining about 15 to 20 pounds of muscle.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

After 2020 graduate Kobie Stillwell served as punter for most of last season, sophomore Dylan Scott is now filling that role.

Sophomore Kellen Stillwell, who is Kobie Stillwell’s brother, is kicking off, with sophomore Dallas Gearhart

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Trey Burger (sr., 5-11, 195), Maxwell Cummings (so., 5-10, 158) Running backs: *Ricky Alli (sr., 5-7, 191), Ronald Blackman (sr., 6-0, 190), Jaden Yates (so., 6-0, 202)

Shahid (so., 5-9, 165), Special teams Kicker: Dallas Gearhart (so., 5-8, 122), Kellen Stillwell (so., 5-9, 145) Punteer: *Dylan Scott (so., Punt 5-11, 190), Raymond Returners: *Alli, *Blackman Long snapper: *Brown (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

9

OCC-O HIO D IVISION

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New Albany

Veteran leaders keep Eagles on right track

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Nine months and 27 days passed between New Albany’s memorable 35-7 rout of playoff-bound Groveport to end the 2019 season and its 2020 opener at home Aug. 28 against Lancaster.

Coach Bubba Kidwell acknowledged that is a long time to sustain momentum, and not just because of the roadblocks his and all other teams faced during the offseason and preseason related to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

New Albany graduated its top running back and several offensive linemen among other key players, but Kidwell hoped that seven returning starters on offense and nine on defense – from a team that shared the OCCCapital Division championship and barely missed the Division I, Region 3 playoffs – are enough to spark success during a shortened regular season and potentially beyond.

“A lot of those guys played a huge role in us tying for the league and beating Groveport.

That was huge for those guys to have a game like that and end with a game like that going into the offseason. We were having a great offseason and then we had to stop (activities) March 12,” said Kidwell, who is in his third season. “We’re back into the swing of things and taking it one day at a time.

“We have a lot of experience and a lot of leadership.

That’s what makes this time that’s not typical of any other year easier to handle.”

New Albany is seeking its first playoff berth since 2017.

The Eagles finished 7-3 overall and split the OCCCapital title with Canal Winchester and Groveport, as all three teams went 4-1. The Indians and Cruisers both made the playoffs, and New Albany finished 10th in Region 3, two spots shy of a postseason berth.

As part of conference realignment, New Albany joins the OCC-Ohio this year with Gahanna, Grove City, Pickerington North, Westerville Central and Westland.

Central and North made the

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28....................vs. Lancaster *Sept. 4...................vs. Grove City *Sept. 11 ....................at Gahanna *Sept. 18 ..................vs. Westland *Sept. 25 ....vs. Pickerington North *Oct. 2 .........at Westerville Central 2019 RESULTS (7-3 overall, 4-1 OCC-Capital) Westerville South ............L, 48-21 Dublin Scioto..................W, 28-24 Licking Heights ..............W, 41-14 Gahanna ........................W, 41-17 Olentangy .......................L, 38-35 *Canal Winchester...........L, 41-27 *Newark ..........................W, 48-0 *Big Walnut ....................W, 26-20

playoffs and were the only teams beside the Eagles in the new league to finish above .500.

“We could have a really good year. We should make a great playoff push,” senior linebacker/kicker Ian Hoff said. “I have a good feeling about the season. It’s a tough league, but I could see us going 6-0.”

OFFENSE

Senior quarterback Brock Tibbitts leads a group of returning starters that also consists of classmates Mechi McCaulley (RB), Braedon Elwer (T, TE), Jayden Fudge (HB), Collin Johnson (C), Jaron Webster (G) and Owen Wilcox (WR).

Tibbitts, who has committed to play baseball at Indiana, completed 49 of 99 passes for 817 yards with eight touchdowns and four interceptions last year and rushed for 222 yards and six scores on 31 carries.

McCaulley rushed 161 times for 1,355 yards and nine touchdowns. Wilcox caught 18 passes for 363 yards and two scores.

“I knew I needed to be stronger to compete with everyone on the field,” Tibbitts said. “We had a lot of seniors graduate on the line and with our receivers. The classes below us have stepped up, our class has stepped up and everyone is filling in those spots really well and just clicking as if nothing changed from last year.”

Elwer moved out to tight end to help replace Ohio State recruit Patrick Gurd but might still play tackle.

*Franklin Heights..............W, 34-7 *Groveport .......................W, 35-7 *League contest INSIDE THE EAGLES •Coach: Bubba Kidwell, third season •Top players: Braedon Elwer (OL/TE/DL), Ian Hoff (LB/K), Collin Johnson (OL/LS), Brock Kidwell (RB/QB/DB), Mechi McCaulley (RB), Brock Tibbitts (QB/P),Tyler Van Meter (RB/LB), Jaron Webster (OL) and Owen Wilcox (WR/DB) •Key losses: Luke Dovell, Patrick Gurd, Reed Hall, Brody Kidwell, Jake Klausner, Kingston Mabatah, Tim Marshall and Dominic Zappitelli

Johnson and Webster are joined on the line by senior tackle Ben Stall, junior guard Cade Leggio and junior tackles Jake and Kyle Walters.

“I’ve been a tight end for years, but I played tackle the past few years because we had Patrick Gurd at tight end.

(Tackle) is just what we’ve needed,” Elwer said. “There’s a lot of competition.”

DEFENSE

Experience returns in all three facets of the defense, with four returning starters at linebacker in Hoff and classmates Kole Clay, Peyton Henze and Tyler Van Meter.

Van Meter split time at outside linebacker last year with Gurd and moved to defensive end late in the season, but called linebacker his natural position.

“We have a lot of guys stepping up,” said Van Meter, who also will be a running back. “(Starting two ways) is a big hill for me to climb, playing 100 percent the whole game. My goal is just to show everybody what it takes to be here and hopefully the younger guys will take their chance and run with it.”

Elwer and senior nose guard Griffin Pringle return on the line, joined by junior end Chris Pepper. Kidwell expects to have plenty of depth behind them in senior Hayden Wendt, juniors Luke Carter and Matthew Doran and sophomore Tom Bohman.

“It won’t be the same three (linemen) every series,” Kidwell said. “We can run guys in, and it also will depend on what they’re doing on offense

Senior wide receiver Owen Wilcox is one of seven returning starters on offense for the Eagles, who will play host to Grove City on Friday, Sept. 4. LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

given that so many guys will go both ways and have key roles in the offense. We don’t want to be playing those guys too much on both sides. One thing I think we have is a lot of depth.”

Junior defensive back Jesse Gordon tied for the team lead in interceptions in 2019 with two. Also returning in the secondary are Fudge and junior Brock Kidwell.

The defense allowed seven points or fewer in three of its final four games, complementing an offense that averaged 35.8 points in a fourgame winning streak to end the season.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Hoff made 32 of 36 extrapoint tries and both of his field goal attempts last year. His backup, senior Parker Smith, was 5-for-5 on extra points in the win over Groveport.

“If Ian is playing a lot and is tired, not able to kick being a linebacker and being banged around a bit, we’re lucky we have another guy as well,” coach Kidwell said.

Tibbitts returns as punter for the second consecutive season, and Brock Kidwell and McCaulley will lead what is expected to be a speedy group of kick returners.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Brock Tibbitts (sr., 6-4, 195), Brock Kidwell (jr., 5-10, 180) Running backs: *Jayden Fudge (sr., 5-7, 155), *Mechi McCaulley (sr., 5-8, 155), *Tyler Van Meter (sr., 5-11, 200), Jesse Gordon (jr., 5-11, 160), Kidwell, Parker Smith (sr., 6-2, 190), Ryan Schmidt (jr., 5-11, 165) Receivers: *A.C. Clouse (sr., 6-1, 175), *Owen Wilcox (sr., 6-3, 190), Ryan Cook (sr., 5-10, 165), Jack Daly (sr., 510, 160), Chase Speert (sr., 5-8, 160) Linemen: *Collin Johnson (sr., 6-1, 215), *Cade Leggio (jr., 5-9, 190), *Ben Stall (sr., 6-3, 210), *Jake Walters (jr., 6-0, 215), *Jaron Webster (sr., 5-10, 225), Tom Bohman (so., 6-1, 200), Caden Britton (jr., 5-11, 200), Alex Chattos (jr.,

5-11, 180), Kyle Walters (jr., 6-2, 190) Tight ends: *Braedon Elwer (sr., 6-3, 245), Chris Pepper (jr., 6-4, 185) Defense Linemen: *Elwer, *Pepper, *Griffin Pringle (jr., 6-1, 255), Bohman, Luke Carter (jr., 6-1, 185), Matthew Doran (jr., 6-0, 195), Hayden Wendt (sr., 6-0, 280) Linebackers: *Kole Clay (sr.), *Peyton Henze (sr.), *Ian Hoff (sr., 6-3, 195), *Van Meter, Chattos, Chidi Mabatah (so., 6-0, 180), Jack Sautter (jr., 5-8, 180) Secondary: *Fudge, *Gordon, *Kidwell, *Jack Vannoy (jr., 5-11, 165), Cam Behaein (jr., 5-10, 155), Schmidt, Speert, Wilcox Special teams Kicker: *Hoff, Smith Punter: *Tibbitts, Hoff Returners: *Kidwell, *McCaulley, Fudge, Speert Long snapper: *Johnson, Britton (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

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10

OCC-O HIO D IVISION

Pickerington North

Panthers motivated by playoff loss

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Pickerington North hasn’t forgotten last season’s ending.

Although the Panthers lost three of their first four games, they crushed Olentangy Orange 38-17 in Week 3 and closed the regular season by winning five of six to qualify for the Division I, Region 3 playoffs as the No. 6 seed.

A rematch at third-seeded Orange didn’t go as planned, as North lost 36-17 to finish 6-5 overall.

“The hope (is) to have a deep playoff run this year,” senior offensive lineman Tyce Neu said. “We were definitely motivated in the offseason because it leaves a sour taste in your mouth to lose to a team you’ve beaten previously in the season, especially when you hit such a stride in the second half of the season.”

North found out Aug. 13 that senior Jack Sawyer, an Ohio State commit and five-star defensive line recruit, isn’t planning to play this fall because of the Big Ten’s potential spring season.

The loss of Sawyer, who ended last season at quarterback in addition to starring on defense, combined with losing 19 players to graduation means the Panthers had some holes to fill during the offseason.

There are 32 seniors for coach Nate Hillerich in his fourth season, and the opportunity to battle for the OCC-Ohio Division title with perennial power Pickerington Central now in the OCC-Buckeye seems realistic.

The Panthers, Gahanna and Grove City remain in the OCC-Ohio after the latest OCC realignment, with New Albany, Westerville Central and Westland rounding out the setup.

Hillerich believes he has enough depth throughout the roster to “twoplatoon.”

“We’ve just been taking things day to day,” he said. “Luckily for us, we’ve been pretty consistent, starting in Phase 1 in groups of nine in early June, and we stayed our course the whole time. Everything’s been pretty smooth for us.

“We’re fortunate that we can twoplatoon and that we have a lot of guys so we can practice against each other in practice. You like to return a lot of seniors and we’ve got 32 seniors.”

OFFENSE

After Sawyer split the quarterback position with 2020 graduate Dom Myers last fall, the Panthers now have senior Jared Knight in that role.

Knight is a move-in from Grove City who started the last two seasons. Last year, he threw for 411 yards and one touchdown while making honorable mention all-league as the Dawgs finished 1-9.

Senior Idris Lawrence Jr. and sophomore Dawaun Green give the Panthers a pair of experienced running backs. Lawrence rushed for 642 yards and seven touchdowns on 172 carries last fall and was the team’s second-leading receiver with 24 catches for 237 yards and one score.

Green filled in late in the regular season when Lawrence missed time

Senior Hayden Kaltenecker is back to lead the receiving corps after catching 15 passes for 133 yards and a touchdown last season.

ERIC ALBRECHT/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

because of injury and rushed for 310 yards and three touchdowns on 54 carries.

Senior Hayden Kaltenecker had 15 receptions for 133 yards and one touchdown and leads a receiving corps that also includes seniors Brian Dickerson and Brett Wippel and a pair of move-ins in junior Carl Allen II (Groveport) and senior Raquan Williams (Independence).

Senior Tyler Cruse and sophomore Grant Burke are expected to rotate at tight end, with seniors D.J. Davenport, Zach Addie and Neu all returning on the line. Senior J.J. Donovan is expected to be at center.

DEFENSE

Even without Sawyer, the Panthers should still be imposing up front because of the return of senior end Elijah Hawk. He had 23 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and four pass breakups last season.

Seniors Cesar Gomez and Dejuan Hood both are serving as interior defensive linemen.

Senior Cole Johnson, whom Hillerich calls “kind of the leader of our defense,” is joined at linebacker by senior Marcus Ray II and his sophomore brother, Malik Ray. Johnson had 30 tackles, three tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks last season.

Senior Devin McShan had 22 tackles and five pass breakups and will

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 30..................at Pickerington Central *Sept. 4....................at Westerville Central *Sept. 11...............................vs. Westland *Sept. 18...............................at Grove City *Sept. 25 ............................at New Albany *Oct. 2 ...................................vs. Gahanna 2019 RESULTS (6-5 overall, 4-1 OCC-Ohio) Olentangy Liberty ........................L, 31-19 Clayton Northmont.......................L, 37-17 Olentangy Orange.......................W, 38-17 Westerville Central.........................L, 41-6 Dublin Coffman...........................W, 29-27 *Reynoldsburg............................W, 21-16 *Grove City .................................W, 38-13 *Pickerington Central .....................L, 16-7

be joined at cornerback by junior Jon Lipscomb, who has moved from safety.

Junior Eli Coppess, who is expected to be at free safety, is a move-in from Bloom-Carroll. He had 73 tackles and three tackles for loss last season and four interceptions as a freshman.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Tanner Pope returns at kicker after receiving second-team all-league honors. He was 7-for-9 on field goals and 30-for-32 on extra points.

Although Pope also saw some action at punter, Kaltenecker is expected to perform that duty full

*Lancaster..................................W, 42-14 *Gahanna .....................................W, 21-9 PLAYOFFS Olentangy Orange........................L, 36-17 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS •Coach: Nate Hillerich, fourth season •Top players: D.J. Davenport (OL), Dawaun Green (RB), Elijah Hawk (DL), Cole Johnson (LB), Hayden Kaltenecker (WR), Jared Knight (QB), Idris Lawrence Jr. (RB), Devin McShan (DB) and Tyce Neu (OL) •Key losses: Colby Baker, Dom Myers, Andrew Pinkins, Javontae Robinson, Trent Robinson, Josh Sanders, Jack Sawyer, Chris Scott, Wyatt Stoddard, Nene Uba, Lawson Vaughn and Josiah Williams

time this fall.

Lipscomb returned two kickoffs for touchdowns last season and is expected to be in that role again along with Allen and Coppess.

Burke and senior Darren Kagey give the Panthers a pair of long-snapping options.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jared Knight (sr., 6-0, 176), Adam Sadler (so., 5-9, 178) Running backs: *Dawaun Green (so., 6-0, 208), Idris Lawrence Jr. (sr., 5-10, 190), Kendrick Jamison (sr., 5-9, 168) Receivers: *Carl Allen II (jr., 6-

1, 174), *Hayden Kaltenecker (sr., 5-11, 184) *Brett Wippel (sr., 6-0, 187), Brian Dickerson (sr., 5-8, 166), Raquan Williams (sr., 5-10, 165) Tight ends: Grant Burke (so., 62, 205), Tyler Cruse (sr., 6-0, 198) Linemen: *Zach Addie (sr., 6-0, 280), *D.J. Davenport (sr., 6-0, 286), *J.J. Donovan (sr., 5-9, 190), *Tyce Neu (sr., 6-0, 295), *Braden Watts (jr., 6-0, 235), Darren Kagey (sr., 62, 215), Evan Papali (sr., 5-9, 210) Defense Linemen: *Cesar Gomez (sr., 63, 287), *Elijah Hawk (sr., 6-4, 235), *Dejuan Hood (sr., 5-10, 207), Keith Jones (sr., 6-4, 275), Bryce KittoLee (sr., 5-10, 193) Linebackers: *Cole Johnson (sr., 5-11, 210), *Malik Ray (so., 5-10, 196), *Marcus Ray II (sr., 6-2, 220), Kyle Coffey (sr., 5-7, 167) Secoonda Sec darry: *Eli Coppess (jr., 511, 195), *Jonathan Lipscomb (jr., 5-11,181), *Devin McShan (sr., 59, 165), Daylon Duncan (sr., 6-1, 171), Carl Giddens (sr., 5-11, 180), Duane Glanton Jr. (sr., 5-9, 178) Special teams Kicker: *Tanner Pope (sr., 6-2, 178) Punter: *Kaltenecker Returners: *Allen, *Coppess, *Lipscomb Long snapper: Burke, Kagey (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

11

OCC-O HIO D IVISION

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Senior Vince Francescone (right) is expected to start at linebacker for the Warhawks, who allowed more than 10 points in only four games last season. KYLE ROBERTSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

Westerville Central

Warhawks seeking long postseason run

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Coming off back-to-back postseason appearances, Westerville Central has aspirations of advancing further this season.

The Warhawks’ confidence is due in part to returning several key players on both sides of the ball.

“We’re in a great position because we have so many returning starters from last year,” third-year coach Brent Morrison said. “Defensively, we have seven returning starters coming back. On offense, we have nine guys that started at some point for us last year. The nice thing is the seniors have picked up where they left off.”

Central qualified for the Division I, Region 3 playoffs a season ago, falling to Olentangy Liberty 14-7 in the first round. In 2018, the Warhawks lost to Dublin Coffman 27-10 in the first round in Division I, Region 2.

“We have the same goals,” senior M.J. Davis said. “We’re trying to win the OCC. We’re trying to make it far in the playoffs. We’re just trying to go out there and do the best we can.”

The Warhawks began their abbreviated six-game regular season Aug. 28 against Upper Arlington. They open play in the new-look OCC-Ohio Division on Friday, Sept. 4, against visiting Pickerington North.

Other teams in the league are Gahanna, Grove City, New Albany and Westland.

“The realignment is interesting,” Morrison said.

“We’ve played several of those teams in the past cou-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28........vs. at Upper Arlington *Sept. 4 ......vs. Pickerington North *Sept. 11 ..................at Grove City *Sept. 18...................vs. Gahanna *Sept. 25....................at Westland *Oct. 2 ..................vs. New Albany 2019 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 2-3 in OCC-Buckeye) Whitehall .........................W, 63-6 Grove City ........................W, 56-7 Northland.........................W, 76-0 Pickerington North............W, 41-6 Gahanna ..........................W, 37-6 *Olentangy Liberty ............L, 17-7 *Westerville North ............W, 21-0 *Olentangy Orange............L, 14-6

ple of years in (OCC) crossovers, so we’re very familiar with most of those teams. It will only be a slight adjustment for us.”

Central lost a couple of key playmakers to graduation, including Rickey Hyatt, who rushed for a team-high 736 yards and nine touchdowns on 117 carries and was firstteam all-district, second-team all-league and third-team allstate. He’s now a freshman defensive back at Kentucky.

Also gone is Myles Williamson, who rushed for 437 yards and two touchdowns on 81 carries and added 31 receptions for 368 yards and four scores. He was firstteam all-league and secondteam all-district.

Despite those losses, Morrison remains optimistic.

“Our kids have stepped up and are taking a little selfaccountability, and it’s gone a long way,” he said.

OFFENSE

Senior quarterback Judah Holtzclaw returns to direct the team’s spread offense.

*Westerville South....L, 23-20 (OT) *Olentangy.......................W, 41-7 PLAYOFFS Olentangy Liberty..............L, 14-7 *League contest INSIDE THE WARHAWKS •Coach: Brent Morrison, third season •Top players: M.J. Davis (WR/DB), Vince Francescone (LB/LS), Zeke Healy (RB/LB), Judah Holtzclaw (QB), Will Jados (OL/DL), Luke Swaney (WR/DB) and Braden Weimer (OL/DL) •Key losses: Rickey Hyatt, J.J. Johnson, Darius Madison and Myles Williamson

Last season, he completed 153 of 264 passes for 2,110 yards with 23 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was first-team all-district and allleague and third-team all-state.

“Judah is coming off an allstate season,” Morrison said.

“He has a lot more confidence now and he’s had another year to build rapport with his receivers and his teammates, so we’re expecting big things.”

Junior Luke Swaney had 45 receptions for 628 yards and nine touchdowns. He was first-team all-league and special mention all-district.

Davis is another key receiver.

“I like the camaraderie we have as a group,” Davis said.

“We work really well together.

We’re always talking to each other, texting each other, trying to get some work in, going over plays with each other.

There’s a whole lot more chemistry this year than I’ve ever seen, so I have a really good feeling.”

Senior Kyle Denney also should contribute at receiver.

Junior Michael Ross returns

Zeke Healy will see time at running back, but the senior makes his name at linebacker as he shared the OCC-Buckeye Player of the Year award last year. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

and should be a featured tailback, and junior Owen Franks is the tight end.

Central has an experienced offensive line led by senior Will Jados, who has committed to Miami University.

Seniors Jordan Henley, Brandon Kennedy, Elijah Smith, Isaiah Smith and Mason Toomey also return.

DEFENSE

The 3-3 stack base defense should be led by senior linebacker Zeke Healy, who last season led the team with 81 tackles and shared OCC-Buckeye Player of the Year honors. He also was first-team alldistrict and third-team all-state.

Seniors Vince Francescone, Jimmy Glasser and Logan Moore also could start at linebacker.

The line should feature seniors Tate Sterling and Braden Weimer at end, with Henley and senior Braeden Murray also contributing.

The secondary should be

led by Davis, who will be joined by seniors Sam Riccobono, Jason Robertson and Gary Steele.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Chase Giammarco will handle kickoff duties, with Robertson handling field goals, extra points and punts.

Denney and Swaney are the top return threats, and Riccobono is the long snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Judah Holtzclaw (sr., 6-6, 220) Running backs: *Michael Ross (jr., 5-10, 175), Zeke Healy (sr., 5-10, 200), Logan Moore (sr., 5-11, 185) Receivers: *M.J. Davis (sr., 6-2, 170), *Kyle Denney (sr., 5-10, 145), *Luke Swaney (jr., 6-4, 195) Tigh Tig ht end: *Owen Franks (jr., 6-1, 180) Linemen: *Jordan Henley (sr., 6-0, 270), *Will Jados (jr.,

6-7, 285), *Brandon Kennedy (sr., 6-6, 275), *Elijah Smith (sr., 6-4, 260), *Isaiah Smith (sr., 6-4, 260), *Mason Toomey (sr., 6-2, 230) Defense Linemen: *Henley, *Braeden Murray (sr., 5-7, 235), *Tate Sterling (sr., 5-10, 180), *Braden Weimer (sr., 5-11, 215), C.J. Spinosi (sr., 6-1, 193) Linebackers: *Vince Francescone (sr., 6-0, 170), *Jimmy Glasser (sr., 5-10, 185), *Healy, *Moore Secondary: *Denney, *Davis, *Jason Robertson (jr., 5-10, 180), Sam Riccobono (sr., 5-11, 145), Gary Steele (sr., 5-9, 155) Special teams Kickers: Chase Giammarco (sr., 6-1, 160), Robertson Punter: *Robertson Returners: Denney, Swaney Long snapper: *Riccobono (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

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12

OCC-B UCKEYE D IVISION

Pickerington Central

Tigers expect another strong season

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

With about 140 players in the program, Pickerington Central spent much of June having rotations of 18 athletes come in for weight training before full workouts started.

That helped compensate for the limited contact that took place all summer as the team attempted to follow social-distancing guidelines and move gradually into fuller workouts.

Going a combined 39-5 over the past three seasons, including 14-1 and winning Division I state championships in both 2017 and last fall, is another factor that the Tigers believe helped them stay on track during an unusual offseason.

“The players and coaching staff made a commitment that we’re going to practice every day like we’re going to play,” 18th-year coach Jay Sharrett said. “We’ll be ready. We’ve got the chemistry and camaraderie and the morale to play a lot of good football. I’m not saying we’ll win every game, but we’ll be tough to beat and hopefully the team that gives us a tough game, we can respond to it. Guys know they can come out every week and perform.”

The Tigers will undoubtedly have a slightly different look now that Demeatric Crenshaw, who was the quarterback each of the past three seasons, is at Youngstown State.

Gone, too, are linebackers Ty Hamilton and Dom Marasco, who helped provide a defensive backbone.

Central still possesses a strong ground game led by senior running back Nick Mosley, an experienced offensive line and one of central Ohio’s best athletes in senior wide receiver and cornerback Lorenzo Styles Jr. You would be hard-pressed to find a team in Ohio that has more experience when factoring in how many postseason games the program has played in recent years, which could help compensate for anything the Tigers lacked this summer in terms of preparation.

“We’ve been making sure everyone has the same mindset,” Mosley said. “We’re trying to keep that positive mindset and I think we’ve been doing a good job. We’ve always had pretty good talent and everything’s been going well. We even have some younger guys coming up that have pretty good talent.”

OFFENSE

Senior Garner Wallace has taken over at quarterback after being the second-leading receiver with 20 catches last season while receiving sec-

At a glance

Senior Nick Mosley rushed for 1,427 yards and 23 touchdowns last season and has committed to Bowling Green.

ALEX CONRATH/THISWEEK

from the year before and 15 the year before that,” Sharrett said. “When you start to install the offense and defense, for the first 17 to 18 guys, it’s almost (a) review for them.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Tyler Gillison will start at linebacker while also seeing time at H-back on offense.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

ond-team all-OCC-Ohio Division honors. A Northwestern commit as a defensive back, Wallace saw limited action at quarterback in game situations because Crenshaw rarely left the field.

“What’s neat about Garner is that he’s learned how not just to modify the offense to the players around him but he’s learned how to lead them,” Sharrett said. “He took a ton of reps in practice.”

Mosley, a Bowling Green commit, rushed for 1,427 yards and 23 touchdowns on 234 carries and figures to again be complemented by senior Sirron Smith, who rushed for 512 yards and five touchdowns on 72 carries last season.

Junior Olando Kamara also should get carries out of the backfield.

Styles, a Notre Dame com-

mit, had 43 receptions for 585 yards and six touchdowns and added 252 yards and one touchdown rushing.

Senior Tyler Turnbull has returned for his third season at H-back.

Senior Keaton Snyder was a special mention all-district honoree last season who will line up at tackle while junior Kobe Asamoah is at the other tackle spot.

Senior Garrett Meek and junior Kyle Imboden are at guard, with sophomore Donavon Sanchez now at center.

DEFENSE

Styles also figures to lead the way on defense after having 36 tackles, six pass breakups and two interceptions last fall.

With Wallace expected to focus on offense after making three interceptions, Styles will

be joined at cornerback by senior Quinn Wills, with seniors A.J. Sanders and Smith projected to be at strong safety and sophomore Alex Styles at free safety. Sanders had 53 tackles and five pass breakups, and Smith had 37 tackles.

Senior William Dukes IV returns at linebacker after finishing with 141 tackles and five sacks. Juniors Dakari Frazier and Tyler Gillison and sophomore Kobi Gorman also are at that position.

Junior C.J. Doggette, who Sharrett said has been receiving major college interest, returns at defensive tackle after having 92 tackles a year ago.

Senior Brandon McDougal and junior Donavon McClendon are other returnees up front.

“You can tell some of these guys have 15 weeks of football from last year, some 14

The Tigers lost their kicker and punter from last season to graduation in Drew Bookman, who is now competing for Siena Heights, but his sophomore brother, Alex Bookman, is expected to take over at punter.

Senior Mitchell Vollmer is expected to be the kicker, with Bookman as the backup.

Styles and senior Gavin Edwards figure to serve as the primary returners of kickoffs and punts, with senior Max Lomonico in his third season as the long snapper.

“Max is one of the top long snappers in the nation,” Sharrett said.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Garner Wallace (sr., 6-4, 205), Braden Mantooth (so., 6-3, 170) Running backs backs: *Nick Mosley (sr., 5-11, 205), Olando Kamara (jr., 5-11, 205), Sirron Smith (sr., 5-8, 175) Receeivers: *Max LomonRec ico (sr., 6-4, 214), *Lorenzo Styles Jr. (sr., 6-1, 190), Gavin Edwards (sr., 6-0, 170), Khaleb Rykard (jr., 5-11, 175) H-back: *Tyler Turnbull (sr., 6-0, 225), Tyler Gillison (jr., 6-3, 235) Tight end: *Brooks Kunkel (sr., 6-2, 220), Kobi Gorman (so., 6-3, 220) Linemen: *Kobe Asamoah (jr. 6-3, 295), *Kyle Imboden

2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 30 ...vs. Pickerington North *Sept. 4 ....................at Newark *Sept. 11....vs. Central Crossing *Sept. 18 ...............at Groveport *Sept. 25..............vs. Lancaster *Oct. 2.............at Reynoldsburg 2019 RESULTS (14-1 overall, 5-0 OCC-Ohio) Winter Park (Fla.) ........W, 34-21 Columbus (Ind.) East...W, 20-14 Naperville (Ill.) Cent. ...W, 49-28 Groveport....................L, 19-14 Hilliard Davidson...........W, 28-7 *Gahanna ...................W, 49-28 *Lancaster ...................W, 34-0 *Pickerington North ......W, 16-7 *Reynoldsburg............W, 40-14 *Grove City ...................W, 42-6 PLAYOFFS Reynoldsburg .............W, 20-14 Olentangy Orange.........W, 44-0 Groveport .....................W, 23-7 Mentor .......................W, 28-21 Cincinnati Elder ..........W, 21-14 *League contest INSIDE THE TIGERS •Coach: Jay Sharrett, 18th season •Top players: C.J. Doggette (DL), William Dukes IV (LB), Tyler Gillison (LB/TE), Nick Mosley (RB), A.J. Sanders (DB), Sirron Smith (DB/RB), Keaton Snyder (OL), Lorenzo Styles Jr. (WR/DB) and Garner Wallace (QB) •Key losses: Jakii Alston,Andrew Bookman, Collin Brice, Connor Burgess, Justin Canini, Demeatric Crenshaw,Ty Hamilton,Alec Hammer, Anthony Lampron Jr., Dom Marasco, Dawite Melesse and Arsahn Williams

(jr., 6-3, 285), *Garrett Meek (sr., 5-9, 260), *Donavon Sanchez (sr., 6-1, 265), *Keaton Snyder (sr., 6-2, 260), Brock Egan (so., 5-9, 235), Cameron Griffith (sr., 5-11, 240), Caden Hicks (sr., 5-11, 275), Mike Mohr (jr., 6-2, 265) Defense Linemen: *C.J. Doggette (jr., 6-2, 270), *Brandon McDougal (sr., 5-9, 280), Donovan McLendon (sr., 66, 290), Gino Williams (so., 5-10, 200) Linebackers: *William Dukes IV (sr., 5-11, 215), *Dakari Frazier (jr., 6-3, 245), *Gillison, *Kobi Gorman (so., 6-3, 220), Reece Brancifort (jr., 5-10, 175), R.J. Kuechler (so., 6-5, 210), Kendrick Mensah (so., 6-1, 185), Kai Valdez (jr., 5-10, 200) Secondary: *A.J. Sanders (sr., 6-0, 190), *Smith, *Styles, *Quinn Wills (sr., 6-0, 180), Edwards, Jorden Howard (sr., 6-2, 190), Roman Pearson (jr., 6-1, 175) Special teams Kicker: *Mitchell Vollmer (sr., 6-0, 170), Alex Bookman (so., 6-0, 160) Punter: *Bookman Returners: *Edwards, *Styles, Mosley, Smith, Jaylen Tinsley (jr., 5-10, 165) Long snapper: *Lomonico, Alex Styles (so., 6-3, 200) (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

13

OCC-B UCKEYE D IVISION

Gales relying on system for success

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM More than a dozen of Lancaster’s key players from last year graduated, but that doesn’t mean the team will look much different this season.

The Golden Gales opened their 23rd season under coach Rob Carpenter on Aug. 28 at New Albany. They have an experienced coaching staff around Carpenter, with defensive coordinator Mark Pezo on the staff since 2004 and offensive coordinator Tony Albertini also a program veteran.

The 2-7 record Lancaster posted last year marked just the second time since it went 3-7 in 2012 that it had a losing record. The Gales’ only wins came over Newark (5120 in Week 4) and Grove City (34-12 in Week 6), which are programs that stumbled to 19 finishes.

Lancaster went 1-4 in the OCC-Ohio Division to place fifth behind champion Pickerington Central (5-0) but has moved to the OCC-Buckeye in the latest league realignment. It is joined by Central and Reynoldsburg from the OCC-Ohio as well as Central Crossing, Groveport and

Newark.

“We’re new all across the board,” senior two-way lineman Zindale Graf said. “I’m excited. I think we look really good, really athletic and fast.

We’ve got a good group and we should have a good season.”

The primary reason for optimism for the Gales, in addition to being in a more navigable league considering Central Crossing and Newark both posted losing records last season, is what they possess in terms of numbers.

There are more than 60 athletes out in grades 10-12, and 21 are seniors.

Still, many of the players who will be filling key roles weren’t in such important positions last season.

That is where coaching comes in.

“There’s a lot of (the assistants) who have been here,” Pezo said. “I’ve been here for 17 years, another guy has been there the same amount and (Albertini) has been here for most of (Carpenter’s tenure).

Coaching (under Carpenter) is great because you get a lot of freedom.

“We’re going to be very young and inexperienced.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ..................at New Albany *Sept. 4...........at Central Crossing *Sept. 11 .................vs. Groveport *Sept. 18............vs. Reynoldsburg *Sept. 25 ...at Pickerington Central *Oct. 2 ........................vs. Newark 2019 RESULTS (2-7 overall, 1-4 OCC-Ohio) Watterson .......................L, 24-22 Hilliard Darby ....................L, 21-7 Newark..........................W, 51-20 Upper Arlington ...............L, 31-21 *Grove City.....................W, 34-12 *Pickerington Central ........L, 34-0 *Gahanna .......................L, 28-25 *Pickerington North .........L, 42-14 *Reynoldsburg ................L, 55-20

We’ve got a really strong junior class and some seniors stepping up. For some of them, it’s their first opportunity to play.”

OFFENSE

The Gales return their starting quarterback in senior Titan Johnson as well as one of their top running backs in senior George Sherrick in a wing-T offense.

Johnson completed 33 of 59 passes for 478 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for three scores last season.

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*League contest INSIDE THE GOLDEN GALES •Coach: Rob Carpenter, 23rd season •Top players: Dashawn Garnes (WR/DB), Zindale Graf (OL/DL), Ty Hedges (OL/DL), Parker Hill (RB/LB), Titan Johnson (QB), Ajay Locke (RB/LB), Christian Riley (TE/DL), George Sherrick (RB/DB) and Tanner Taley (OL/DL) •Key losses: Noah Burnside, Dominic Carpenter, Casey Finck, Dalton Golden, Max Hamilton, Sage Hill, Devon Pearson, Carson Rainier,Tristen Rothenberger, Phillip Slater, Cole Smith, Owen Snyder, Brock Thomas, Simon Voigt and Curtis Young

Sherrick rushed 63 times for 331 yards.

Senior Parker Hill is a transfer from Watkins Memorial who rushed for 763 yards and seven touchdowns on 171 carries.

“Everything’s been going great,” Hill said. “I don’t really know what the past years are like compared to this year because this is my first year being here, but from what I’ve seen, everybody loves football and loves being together as a family. I think we’ve got a lot of talent and everybody

has been doing well and playing well. We seem really connected.”

Seniors Zindale Graf and Tanner Taley should lead an offensive line that lost three starters to graduation.

DEFENSE

Graf is in his third season as a starter on the line, but he’s one of the few returning key defensive players from last season.

He lines up at end, with juniors Xavier Conrad, Aiden Rings and Tyler Weilbacher at the other end spot. Juniors Ty Hedges and Anthony Smith are at tackle.

Hill returns at linebacker and is joined at that position by senior Keaton Jacobs and junior Ajay Locke. Juniors Raulin Boyce and Sam Finck are others at linebacker.

The biggest loss on Lancaster’s defense was Max Hamilton, a 2020 graduate who had 34 tackles, five tackles for loss, eight pass breakups and two interceptions in the secondary.

Senior Dashawn Garnes is at one cornerback slot, with Sherrick and junior Brysten Poe at the other.

At free safety, junior Riley

Poston is the starter, with Johnson also expected to see time.

Junior Eli Rathburn is at strong safety.

“Right now really we’ve got pretty good depth (defensively),” Pezo said. “It’s unproven, but we’ve got a lot of guys. We’ll try to get the best 11 out of 17 or 18 guys that can play. It’s just a matter of playing the right ones.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Isaac Pallinni has taken over at kicker with senior Phillip Slater not back with the team.

Pallinni also is the new punter in place of 2020 graduate Curtis Young.

After Hamilton had 382 yards in kickoff returns and 211 yards in punt returns, Garnes and sophomore David Roby should be the primary returners. Sherrick returned seven kickoffs last season.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Titan Johnson (sr., 5-11, 165), Keaton Jacobs (sr., 6-2, 160) Running backs: *Parker

GALES >> 15

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Lancaster

14

OCC-B UCKEYE D IVISION

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Newark

Wildcats turn back clock on offense

By DAVE WEIDIG NEWARK ADVOCATE

Senior Jashaun McGraw is part of a potent running game, along with Jalil Underdown. Both will be four-year letterwinners and rushed for more than 1,000 yards last season when the Cruisers finished 10-3. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

Groveport Madison

Cruisers want strong encore

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

At least some of the Groveport Madison football team’s 31 seniors plan to play with a chip on their shoulder, and not just because they want to prove any doubters wrong as to whether the Cruisers can follow up on last year’s success.

They want to prove that their class is as capable of leading a team as last year’s seniors, who were instrumental in taking the Cruisers from a 0-10 record in 2017 to a 10-3 mark last year and a Division I, Region 3 runner-up finish as well as a share of the OCC-Capital Division championship.

“We definitely do have a target on our back,” senior linebacker Clarence Gossett said. “A lot of people think we’re going to fall because we lost our 2020 class, but we’re here to prove them all wrong and do even better than we did last year.”

This year’s senior class features four four-year letterwinners in Elyjah Aekins (WR/DB), Jashaun McGraw (FB/DL), Leland Slaven (C) and Jalil Underdown (SB). Aekins and Slaven became fouryear starters when this season began Aug. 28 at home against Westland.

Eleven starters return overall, six on offense and five on defense.

“That 2019 team was outstanding and that senior class was solid, but they were nothing without the juniors and vice versa, the juniors wouldn’t have been the same without the seniors,” first-year coach Mitch Westcamp said. “We just meshed really well. Our freshmen, we’re happy with them and our junior high classes are good. We think we’ll have some classes coming up to mirror (2020 and 2021).”

Westcamp, a 1999 Groveport graduate, was named coach Feb. 13. He succeeded Bryan Schoonover, last year’s Division I state co-Coach of the Year who led the Cruisers for seven seasons.

Westcamp had been an assistant in the program for 12 seasons, coaching quar-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.....................................vs. Westland *Sept. 4..............................vs. Reynoldsburg *Sept. 11...................................at Lancaster *Sept. 18..................vs. Pickerington Central *Sept. 25......................................at Newark *Oct. 2 ...........................vs. Central Crossing 2019 RESULTS (10-3 overall, 4-1 OCC-Capital) Westerville North..............................W, 31-6 Hamilton Township ...........................W, 56-0 Worthington Kilbourne ....................W, 41-14 Pickerington Central .......................W, 19-14 Olentangy Liberty ............................L, 21-14 *Franklin Heights..............................W, 61-7 *Canal Winchester............................W, 28-0 *Newark ..........................................W, 49-0 *Big Walnut......................................W, 49-0 *New Albany .....................................L, 35-7 PLAYOFFS Hilliard Davidson ............................W, 18-17 Olentangy Liberty .............................W, 13-7 Pickerington Central..........................L, 23-7 *League contest INSIDE THE CRUISERS •Coach: Mitch Westcamp, first season •Top players: Elyjah Aekins (WR/DB), Te’Ron Coleman (SB), Clarence Gossett (LB), Jashaun McGraw (FB/DL), Makarius Mosley (OL/DL), John Motton (WR/DB), Isaiah Rogers (QB), Leland Slaven (OL) and Jalil Underdown (RB) •Key losses: Emmanuel Anthony, Te-Rah Edwards,Tykel Hancock-Anderson,Allan Joyce, Skylar Mouser, Colin Rice, Jasiyah Robinson and Darrell Smoot

terbacks and running backs the past two years.

Groveport went 4-1 in the OCC-Capital last year to share first place with Canal Winchester and New Albany, and saw a season in which it set a program record for wins come to an end with a 23-7 loss to eventual state champion Pickerington Central.

The Cruisers and Tigers now find themselves together in the OCC-Buckeye as part of conference realignment. Groveport, which handed Central its only loss last year, begins league play Friday, Sept.

4, at home against Reynoldsburg.

“Last year gives us more confidence that we (have won) before, so we can do it again,” Aekins said. “We’re out here having fun, knowing we have something to prove again.”

OFFENSE

The crux of the Cruisers’ line and running game returns, with three starters back on the line in front of McGraw and Underdown, who amassed a majority of the team’s 3,605 rushing yards last year.

McGraw, a 5-foot-11, 240-pound fullback, finished with 1,113 yards and 11 touchdowns on 206 carries. Underdown, a 5-9, 185-pound slotback, had 119 carries for 1,028 yards and 14 touchdowns and caught four passes for 114 yards and two scores.

Classmate Te-Ron Coleman added 18 carries for 215 yards and two touchdowns.

Slaven anchors the offensive line with seniors Kyle Gossett and Makarius Mosley at guards and senior Angel Solis at right tackle. Juniors Jaxson Kelly and Jordan Ramella and sophomore Cameron Spencer were vying to start at left tackle.

Senior Isaiah Rogers takes over at quarterback after being 2020 graduate Colin Rice’s backup. Aekins, who did not play offense last year, will be one of Rogers’ top targets.

“I have to learn a lot more stuff this year,” Aekins said. “Westcamp and I had a lot of conversations in the offseason.

He just told me senior year was coming up so I need to play a lot of roles. I’m excited about it.”

Westcamp emphasized that the Cruisers will continue to run the wing-T. “I’d be an idiot if I changed that. We will look the same offensively,” Westcamp said, laughing. “Would we like to take a couple more shots (with deep passes)? Absolutely. It all depends on how the game plays out. Outside of maybe two halves of football last year, we didn’t have to.”

CRUISERS >> 19

Newark coach Bill Franks has reached into the past as he attempts to build a foundation for the Wildcats’ future.

“We’ve put two systems in place that we believe will enable the kids to play fast and play to our strengths,” said Franks, whose team went 1-9 a year ago. “We’re going to run a 4-3 defense and Bradlyflexbone triple-option offense. I’ve been a fan for a long time, and it seemed like the right thing to do. We have a lot of kids who can run and catch.”

“We’re going to rely on our quickness and play fast,” added Franks, who coached the Wildcats from 1997-2001 before leaving for his alma mater of Newark Catholic.

“We’ll keep it simple and be great at execution. We’re all enjoying coaching it. It’s different than what 95 percent of people run, but some great Newark teams, with Bill Biggers and Hoss Starr, have run this system. We’re going to do it from the third grade on up, and I’ll do it until I retire.”

“We’ve always been a spread team, but now we’re going to run it a lot more,” said senior Garret Ramsey (6-foot-4, 175 pounds), who caught 29 passes last year and had a 31-yard scoring run in a season-ending 41-30 victory over Franklin Heights.

Ramsey will line up at running back along with classmates Mason Wheeler (5-10, 165) and Quadre Rogers and junior Khyrenn Feaster.

Wheeler rushed for 307 yards a year ago.

Fullbacks include juniors Giovanni Aber (6-0, 185), Orryan Whitner (5-10, 185) and Hunter Vogel (5-8, 235).

Receivers are senior Trei Dansby and juniors Bradly McCandlish, Gavyn Fulk and Caleb Hall. Dansby and McCandlish both are 6-5.

“We have a lot of real good athletes,” Dansby said. “We look like a well-oiled machine.”

Senior Jake Sherman (510, 175) returns to quarterback, where he played as a freshman and sophomore before moving to receiver last season.

“Jake has the heart of a leader,” Franks said. “He’s a good decision maker, is well disciplined and a good runner. We’re still going to pass, and he has a nice touch on the football.”

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28..........at Thomas Worth. *Sept. 4 vs. Pickerington Central *Sept. 11 .........at Reynoldsburg *Sept. 18....vs. Central Crossing *Sept. 25..............vs. Groveport *Oct. 2...................at Lancaster 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 1-4 in OCC-Capital) Zanesville......................L, 35-0 Mount Vernon................L, 21-0 Marion Harding............L, 23-20 Lancaster....................L, 51-20 Central Crossing............L, 49-0 *Big Walnut .................L, 37-16 *New Albany .................L, 48-0 *Groveport ....................L, 49-0 *Canal Winchester .........L, 49-0 *Franklin Heights ........W, 41-30 *League contest INSIDE THE WILDCATS •Coach: Bill Franks, second season •Top players: Jake Sherman (QB/DB), Garret Ramsey (RB/DB), Mason Wheeler (RB/DB), Trei Dansby (WR/DL), Gabe Madden (OL/DL), Peyton Sherrard (OL/LB), Andrew LeFevre (OL/DL), Ka’Mar Davis (OL/DL), Orryan Whitner (RB/LB), Khyrenn Feaster (RB/LB) •Key losses: Jaden Woods, Johnathon Wieber, C.J. Fields, Logan Swonger

“Jake leads and everyone follows,” Ramsey said. “He switched to wide receiver last year, didn’t complain and worked his tail off.”

The Wildcats will have good size up front, as the offensive line will feature junior Ka’Mar Davis (6-6, 275), senior center Gabe Madden (6-2, 280), tackle Andrew LeFevre (6-3, 295). Cameron Van Valkenburg (6-2, 245), Sean Lee (270) and Jared Hawk (270).

Madden and Dansby return to lead the defensive line, and both feel like their 20-member senior class is ready to leave its mark.

“We have a lot of chemistry going, and we have each other’s backs,” Madden said.

“I’m trying to become more of a leader and hard worker, on and off the field. Everyone is buying in and we’re going to get there.”

“It’s a different feeling this year,” Dansby said. “We have a lot of guys who love football. We treat every play, regardless of what happens, as if the score was 0-0.”

Sherman, who will play safety along with Ramsey, said more than half of the seniors have played together since the sixth grade.

“We’re a hard working

WILDCATS >> 16

15

OCC-B UCKEYE D IVISION

Raiders must overcome inexperience

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM After making back-to-back playoff appearances for the first time, Reynoldsburg will learn how much depth it truly possesses.

The Raiders lost 30 players to graduation as well as other key players who are no longer with the program.

Still, 10th-year coach Buddy White has been pleased with what he’s seen in terms of attitude from his players during an unusual summer in which the program was suspended at two junctures because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

“As a coach, there’s some teams you like better than others,” White said. “I really, really like this team. I love the commitment. I love the leadership we have. These kids have been so committed and the commitment is based a lot of times on your leadership.

Our leadership has done a great job and these kids have followed the leaders. These kids are doing things the right way and I’m so happy about it. There’s some areas where we’re inexperienced, but they’re very talented.”

Reynoldsburg followed a 10-2 finish in 2018 by winning its first five games and going 7-4 overall last fall.

The Raiders went just 2-3 in the OCC-Ohio Division but have since moved to the OCCBuckeye along with Pickerington Central and Lancaster.

Reynoldsburg lost twice to Central last year but beat Lancaster 55-20 in its regular-season finale.

The others in the OCCBuckeye are Central Crossing, which Reynoldsburg defeated 17-15 last season; Groveport, which was the Division I, Region 3 runnerup; and Newark, which is coming off a 1-9 finish.

The Raiders’ biggest hope is that a large offensive line featuring senior Dalton Hall, the return of one of the area’s best junior quarterbacks in Dijon Jennings and a group of speedy, two-way contributors can help compensate for their lack of overall experience.

“It feels amazing to be with my teammates and be with the other seniors,” Hall said. “I feel like we have some

team’s opener Aug. 28 against Gahanna.

Senior Justin Barko is at punter, with Gillam likely to be one of the team’s top kickoff and punt returners. “(Gillam’s) only about (53, 135), but he’s the fastest guy on the team and he catches the ball,” White said. “He’ll be a home-run hitter for us.”

THE LINEUP

Junior Dijon Jennings will run the Raiders’ offense after completing 44 of 65 passes for 594 yards and seven touchdowns while splitting time with 2020 graduate Michael Whatley. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

younger guys on the offensive line, but we’re not shy in size at all. I’m happy to get out there and prove everyone wrong. Everyone thinks we lost all of our players from last year, but I feel like we’re going to come back even stronger and shock the world.”

OFFENSE

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 .....................vs. Gahanna *Sept. 4.....................at Groveport *Sept. 11.....................vs. Newark *Sept. 18...................at Lancaster *Sept. 25.........at Central Crossing *Oct. 1......vs. Pickerington Central 2019 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 2-3 OCC-Ohio) Upper Arlington ................W, 23-9 Licking Heights ................W, 41-7 Marion-Franklin..............W, 40-10 Central Crossing.............W, 17-15 Westerville South ...........W, 35-14 *Pickerington North .........L, 21-16 *Gahanna .......................L, 29-28 *Grove City.......................W, 35-0 *Pickerington Central.......L, 40-14 *Lancaster .....................W, 55-20

PLAYOFFS Pickerington Central........L, 20-14 *League contest INSIDE THE RAIDERS •Coach: Buddy White, 10th season •Top players: Justin Barko (WR/P), Kaleb Bernardin (OL/DL), Daniel Broomfield (RB), Terrell Burton (DL/OL), Dalton Hall (OL/DL), Dijon Jennings (QB), N’Rique Love (WR/DB), Ajani Preston (DB/RB) and Mekhai Woodfork (DL/RB) •Key losses: Jalen Bowens, Courtland Bullard, Myles Carter, Mikah Coleman, James Dean, Breyon Eddings, Cocy Goff, MarcAnthony Gray, Robert McClain,Andree’ Mock, Keyshaun Slaughter, Shon Strickland and Michael Whatley

pion Pickerington Central in the first round of the playoffs.

Senior Kehinde McComb and Bernardin also should contribute on the line.

Their presence will be especially important considering the Raiders lost Mikah Coleman to graduation and with junior lineman Keyshaun Slaughter no longer a part of the program.

Senior OuMar Bahr and junior Alex Uhl will lead the linebacking corps after Johron Johnson and Marshawn Massey graduated and senior Myles Carter is not with the program this fall.

White is high on senior Solomon Hill, who is just 5foot-6 and 140 pounds but is at cornerback along with senior Jordan Haley.

Love and Preston will be at safety.

The offense is built around Jennings, who saw action as a freshman and split time at quarterback last season.

Jennings, who has offers from Kentucky and Eastern Michigan, completed 44 of 65 passes for 594 yards with seven touchdowns while complementing 2020 graduate Michael Whatley.

Senior Daniel Broomfield leads a group of players expected to be at running back, along with seniors Mekhai Woodfork and Ajani Preston and juniors Jeremiah Crawford-Smith and Zion JacksonWilborn.

Broomfield gained experience last season when the Raiders had 2020 graduates Courtland Bullard and MarcAnthony Gray as their top options.

“Daniel Broomfield might

take central Ohio by storm,” White said. “He’s very good and he is so much stronger and so much faster.”

Senior N’Rique Love is among the team’s top athletes and figures to play a key role at wide receiver along with a group of players that includes senior Justin Barko and junior Markez Gillam. Senior Soufiana Sangare is a movein from New Jersey.

Hall, who was special mention all-league last season, and senior Kaleb Bernardin should

lead the offensive line.

Sophomore Patrick O’Brien is a move-in from Minnesota who could contribute on the line.

The top returnees on defense are Woodfork and senior Terrell Burton on the line.

Burton had 25 tackles last season and Woodfork had 3.5 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss in the Raiders’ 20-14 loss to eventual Division I state cham-

Because the Raiders spent many of the early days in August training in Phase 1, putting together their special teams units was among the last things they were planning to do.

White was hopeful that he’d find a kicker in time for the

nes (sr., 5-8, 155), Da’Vaughn Lewis (sr., 5-10, 160) Tight end: *Christian Riley (sr., 6-3, 230) Linemen: *Andrew Handshey (jr., 5-10, 190), *Tim Lewellen (jr., 6-1, 255), *Tanner Taley (sr., 5-10, 220), Zindale Graf (sr., 5-11, 220), Tyler

Rose (sr., 5-10, 265), Anthony Smith (jr., 6-0, 235) Defense Linemen: *Graf, *Ty Hedges (jr., 5-9, 185), *Smith, Xavier Conrad (jr., 6-1, 205), Aiden Rings (jr., 6-3, 180), Tyler Weilbacher (jr., 5-11, 170) Linebackers: *Hill, *Jacobs,

*Locke, Raulin Boyce (jr., 61, 180), Sam Finck (jr., 6-1, 190) Secondary: *Garnes, *Riley Poston (jr., 5-10, 165), *Eli Rathburn (jr., 6-2, 185), Johnson, Poe, Sherrick Special teams Kicker: *Isaac Pallinni (jr.,

5-11, 220) Punter: *Pallinni Returners: *Garnes, *Roby, Sherrick Long snapper: *Locke (*Denotes projected starter)

DEFENSE

SPECIAL TEAMS

Offense Quarterbacks: *Dijon Jennings (jr., 6-0, 185), Troy Martin (fr., 6-0, 182), Latrelle Palmer (so., 5-10, 150) Running backs: *Daniel Broomfield (sr., 5-11, 212), *Jeremiah Crawford-Smith (jr., 5-9, 190), Zion JacksonWilborn (jr., 5-9, 190), Ajani Preston (sr., 5-10, 175), Mekhai Woodfork (sr., 5-11, 190) Receivers: *Markez Gillam (jr., 5-3, 135), *N’Rique Love (sr., 6-0, 170), Justin Barko (sr., 6-2, 195), Jabari Mitchell (so., 6-3, 185), Dono’Van Reed (jr., 5-9, 155), Soufiana Sangare (sr., 6-0, 193), Joseph Spann (so., 6-3, 185), Tehron Spencer (so., 5-10, 140), Savian Torrence (jr., 5-11, 185) Linemen: *Kaleb Bernardin (sr., 6-2, 338), *Dalton Hall (sr., 6-5, 290), *Jehan Martin (sr., 5-9, 225), *Souleymane Sall (jr., 6-1, 250), *Caleb Turner (jr., 6-0, 290), Terrell Burton (sr., 5-9, 255), Aaron Harding (sr., 6-2, 238), Patrick O’Brien (so., 6-0, 300) Defense Linemen: *Bernardin, *Burton, *Kehinde McComb (sr., 5-11, 190), *Woodfork, Hall, O’Brien, Turner Linebackers: *OuMar Bahr (sr., 5-10, 195), *Alex Uhl (jr., 5-10, 205), Jackson-Wilborn, Chris Karr (so., 5-10, 175), Yohance Kumnegere (sr., 510, 215), Mitchell Secondary: *Jordan Haley (sr., 5-10, 170), *Solomon Hill (sr., 5-6, 140), *Love, *Preston, Deontae Head (jr., 5-8, 175), Doudley Jaboin (sr., 59, 146) Special teams Kicker: *To be determined Punter: *Barko Returners: *Gillam Long snapper: *To be determined (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

GALES FROM >> 13

Hill (sr., 6-0, 200), *Ajay Locke (jr., 5-9, 195), *George Sherrick (sr., 6-2, 200), Brysten Poe (jr., 5-11, 165), David Roby (so., 5-8, 165), Caleb Sampson (jr., 5-8, 165) Receivers: *Dashawn Gar-

julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

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16

OCC-B UCKEYE D IVISION

Central Crossing

Comets played catch-up during preseason camp

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Central Crossing coach Trevor White occasionally has found himself looking at last year’s practice schedule, even if he doesn’t want to.

Usually, he wishes he hadn’t, because the Comets – like many other teams – spent most of August trying to catch up to where they’d otherwise be if the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic had not slowed their preseason progress.

“We look at our practice schedule from last year and see where we were at this point versus what we can do now and what our kids are used to doing (and we’re) just not there,” White said. “All those June and July camps you would have used to teach kids what you expect from them and how to work, how to act and how to treat each other, they weren’t there.

“As far as who could do what with the football, 90 percent of the time, we couldn’t use footballs.”

As it was, White and his staff anticipated still having some unanswered questions when the Comets opened Aug. 28 at home against Grove City.

Most of Central Crossing’s returning experience can be found on its offensive and defensive lines as well as at linebacker, special teams and in the secondary. The Comets, who went 3-7 overall and 14 in the OCC-Central Division last season, have been grooming a new starting quarterback in senior Rudy Risinger as well as contributors at many skilled positions.

Senior Tristen Needham returns for his third season as a starter at both outside linebacker and tight end, as does senior Freddy Burchett at center.

“We don’t know what’s going to happen next week, but we can control what we do (on a given day),” Needham said. “We always put in the work while we can.”

Central Crossing begins OCC-Buckeye play Friday, Sept. 4, at home against Lancaster. The Comets’ new league includes defending Division I state champion Pickerington Central as well as Groveport, which was Divi-

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At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...................vs. Grove City *Sept. 4 ...................vs. Lancaster *Sept. 11 ...at Pickerington Central *Sept. 18.....................vs. Newark *Sept. 25............vs. Reynoldsburg *Oct. 2 ......................at Groveport 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 1-4 OCC-Central) Dublin Jerome ..................L, 34-3 Beechcroft .......................W, 10-0 Grove City .......................L, 18-15 Reynoldsburg..................L, 17-15 Newark............................W, 49-0 *Hilliard Davidson..............L, 35-0 *Dublin Coffman................L, 49-7 *Westland ......................W, 17-13

sion I, Region 3 runner-up a year ago.

Several Comets said there was a renewed emphasis on physical football during the offseason.

“We knew we hadn’t been getting smaller in numbers but smaller in size,” senior linebacker/fullback Nick Tiegler said. “We know we need to have a lot of gritty guys on the team. We need to make sure to establish that (being physical) is what we need to do.

We need to be a lot more physical than (opposing) teams because we won’t be bigger.”

OFFENSE

Risinger succeeds 2020 graduates Logan Green and Drew DeYarmon, who combined to complete 65 of 136 passes for 802 yards with 10 touchdowns and nine interceptions last season.

“This is my shot to do what I can on offense, make sure we’re going (smoothly) and help us win,” said Risinger, who had only one varsity pass attempt as a junior. “I can run the ball and be shifty. I can throw some nice passes, I think.

“I worked here during the summer almost every day we could come out. (The receivers) would run their routes and I’d hit them. I’d work with my dad at home doing workouts based on lifting, then outside stuff on footwork. I wanted to get everything covered and make sure I was a dual threat.”

Senior Kyren Glaze and junior Jae’V’on Pass are expected to be the Comets’ primary running backs, with

*Upper Arlington..............L, 35-14 *Marysville........................L, 35-0 *League contest INSIDE THE COMETS •Coach: Trevor White, fourth season •Top players: Drew Basham (OL/DL), Freddy Burchett (OL/DL), Kyren Glaze (RB/DB), Jonathan Mathers (TE/LB),Tristen Needham (TE/LB), Jae’V’on Pass (RB/DB), Rudy Risinger (QB), Tyler Terrell (K/P) and Nick Tiegler (RB/LB) •Key losses: Tye Bradley, Drew DeYarmon, Logan Green, Anthony Lowe, Trent Rivers and Jahaan Upchurch

Tiegler at fullback. Glaze was a versatile threat last year, rushing 87 times for 338 yards and catching five passes for 69 yards and a touchdown.

Seniors Jonathan Mathers and Brodie Musto and junior Isaiah Bridges will lead a group of receivers that will try to replace the production from 2020 graduate Anthony Lowe.

Lowe, a three-year starter, caught 33 passes for 445 yards and four touchdowns and rushed for 115 yards on 20 carries as a senior.

“It’s been comfortable having one person for the past couple of years who you can count on and make everything happen, but we’re comfortable with these guys,” White said. “There are some big shoes to fill.”

Burchett and classmate Andrew Basham lead a line that also includes juniors Braydon Farrell, Nate Smith and Max Webb. “(We have) lots of hard hitters,” Burchett said. “Guys haven’t been able to do much and they want to come out and hit hard. You go as hard as you can because tomorrow isn’t guaranteed.”

DEFENSE

Basham and senior Caleb Ross return on the line.

Burchett will see time at nose guard, but was injured during the preseason and hoped to return in time for the opener.

White anticipated that Tiegler and Webb will help lead the linebacking corps, although both will be in their first season as starters. Mathers and Needham will play

Senior Tristen Needham will start at linebacker and will be in the rotation at tight end for the Comets, who will play host to Lancaster on Friday, Sept. 4.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

outside linebacker, and junior Eli Fleshman also vied for playing time.

“We’re way behind but I feel like we’re bonding together and finding our flow.

The first day of hitting (Aug. 13) really solved a lot of problems,” Needham said. “We’ve been waiting a while for this.

We’ve been working hard for this.”

Glaze, senior Brodie Musto and Pass led a group of defensive backs that otherwise remained a question mark as the season approached. Senior Anthony Blakesley, junior Alec Boyd and sophomore Hendrix Mundy also expected to see time.

Lowe had 51 tackles and two interceptions last year and was named second-team alldistrict as a defensive back.

“We’re trying to find the best fit between safety and corner. If they’re not starting on one side of the ball, they’re probably starting on the other,” White said. “Who’s better at free safety? Who’s strong?

We’ll find out.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Tyler Terrell returns after making all 13 of his extra-point attempts last year and averaging 31.3 yards per punt.

“He’s back and he’s been looking great,” White said of Terrell, who also is a soccer player and was listed as a defensive back on the team’s preseason roster. “We usually have to tell him to leave because he’d pull full-time duty with both sports if he could.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Rudy Risinger (sr.), Tyler Degerick (so.), Kolin Hendricks (so.)

Running backs: *Kyren Glaze (sr.), *Jae’V’on Pass (jr.), Alec Boyd (jr.), Nick Tiegler (sr.)

Receivers: *Isaiah Bridges (jr.), *Jonathan Mathers (sr.), *Brodie Musto (sr.), Hendrix Mundy (so.)

Linemen: *Andrew Basham (sr.), *Freddy Burchett (sr.), *Braydon Farrell (jr.), *Nate Smith (jr.), *Max Webb (jr.), Abel Garantche (sr.), William Taynor (jr.)

Tight end: *Jonathan Mathers (sr.), Eli Fleshman (jr.), Tristen Needham (sr.)

Defense Linemen: *Basham, *Burchett, *Caleb Ross (sr.), Garantche Linebackers: *Mathers, *Needham, *Tiegler, *Webb, Fleshman Secondary: *Anthony Blakesley (sr.), *Glaze, *Musto, *Pass, Boyd, Mundy Special teams Kicker: *Tyler Terrell (sr.)

Punter: *Terrell Returner: *Glaze, *Pass, Boyd Long snapper: *Anthony Blakesley (sr.), William Taynor (jr.), Mundy (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

WILDCATS

FROM >> 14

group, and we’re really tight, really close,” Sherman said.

Senior Payton Sherrard (6-0, 200), Whitner and Feaster lead the linebacking corps, while junior Terrill Williams (6-4, 170) is among those

in the mix at cornerback. Senior Tyler Shaffer (6-0, 205 can play both end and nose guard defensively, and he and Sherrard also are expected to see action at guard on offense.

“The 4-3 is a balanced defense,” said Franks, whose kicker will be senior Garrett Kashner. “You can be

sound against multiple styles and looks. We need to get better at tackling. They want to be aggressive, but they still have to be disciplined and stay in our run lanes. We want to play simple and fast.”

The Wildcats believe this is a season in which they can make a big jump.

“I feel like this is the year we come together as a team,” Ramsey said.

“We’ve flipped around our senior leaders. All the seniors want to win, and we want it badly.” dweidig@nncogannett.com @noz75

17

OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

Intrasquad battles prepare Shamrocks

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM The excitement is palpable this fall at Dublin Coffman workouts.

The Shamrocks reached the Division I, Region 2 final in each of the past two seasons only to come up short of advancing to a state semifinal. They lost to Olentangy Liberty 21-7 in 2018 and Springfield 7-3 last fall, but believe they have the talent to break through that wall.

“It’s been going great,” said Bryon Threats, a running back who has committed to Cincinnati. “We have a lot of people back. We had to start slow with (COVID-19 protocol) group sessions but once we came together, it was great. Everyone is working hard. We’re just ready for the season to start.

“It’s been exciting. We have a great team this year. We have a strong team, and a lot of seniors. I feel like this is going to be a great year.”

Defensive end Hammond Russell, a 6-foot-4, 265-pound West Virginia commit, said it comes down to everyone on the field doing their specific role on every play.

“We have a lot of guys returning, and we have an older team,” Russell said. “We can compete with any team but we have to listen, do our job and our responsibilities. We have to execute, and we can’t make any mistakes.”

Coach Mark Crabtree said it wasn’t that his team made many mistakes against Springfield, but a couple of plays made the difference between advancing and going home.

"Last year, to be honest with you, our team was beaten up and banged up and I was so proud of the effort that we were playing with at the end of the year,” said Crabtree, whose team finished 10-3 overall and tied for the OCC-Central Division title at 4-1. “In some cases, if it had been the regular season, they probably wouldn’t have played.

“I think our returning players understood what mental toughness looks like. It’s one thing to talk about it, but to do it and live it is another thing.

Our kids coming back benefited from that and understand that at this point.”

In addition to six starters back on offense and seven on defense, many of the new starters also saw valuable time under the lights on Fridays.

“You can’t discount having experience,” Crabtree said.

“The experience we have back and the kids are understanding in great detail what we are doing. We’re not starting from square one, and we’re able to continue what we were doing last year.”

Threats believes iron sharpens iron, and the battles in practice can only make the Sham-

At a glance

Connor Mathews follows Devon Williams for a touchdown last season against Upper Arlington. Mathews is back for his second season at quarterback. KYLE ROBERTSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

rocks better.

“It’s a fight every day in practice,” he said. “The defense comes after us (on offense), and we go after them. It’s back and forth every day in practice.

We get to come out and compete.”

Russell, who will be in his third year as a starter, also relished those moments. “(Senior offensive linemen) Daniel Warnsman and Toby (Simpson) make me better every day,” he said. “We go full gear on Tuesday and Thursday, and those are the days we’re making each other better. Those wars are great.”

OFFENSE

The Shamrocks’ shotgun spread attack will be led by senior quarterback Connor Mathews, who is in his second season behind center.

Last fall, Mathews continued to mature throughout the season, earning honorable mention all-district and secondteam all-league honors. He completed 106 of 169 passes for 1,451 yards with 12 touchdowns and four interceptions and rushed for 631 yards and six scores.

“Connor is a lot more confident and knows what he’s doing,” Crabtree said. “Because of his experience, I believe he’ll be able to take the quarterback position to a higher level for himself.”

Threats blossomed into an all-purpose running back and was named third-team all-state, first-team all-district and league Offensive Player of the Year.

The 5-11, 202-pounder rushed for 1,125 yards and 16 touch-

sparingly in that role this fall.

Two starters are returning in the secondary, however, in seniors Hayden Austin and Dorian Weaver.

Phipps also will play defensive back after being named special mention all-state and first-team all-district and allleague. He had six interceptions and four pass breakups.

“Defensively, (defensive coordinator Curtis) Crager has been stressing fundamentals, effort and competing,” Russell said. “Those three things can take you a long way.”

Bryon Threats rushed for 1,125 yards and 16 touchdowns as a junior. KYLE ROBERTSON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

downs on 123 carries and caught 10 passes for 270 yards and three scores. His numbers would have been higher if not for splitting his time playing defense. “(Threats’) best impact is wherever the ball is,” Crabtree said. “Whether he’s touching it, catching it, defending it or returning it, that’s where he makes the biggest impact. It doesn’t matter where he is in the course of a game. He’s an impact player in so many ways.”

Junior Trey Hedderly is back at split end. An addition to the receiving corps is senior Sheron Phipps. The speedy 5-9, 165pounder rushed for 535 yards and seven touchdowns and had 175 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver for Thomas Worthington.

Three offensive linemen are back in senior guard Belding (5-10, 230), center Simpson (5-10, 255) and tackle Warns-

SPECIAL TEAMS

man (6-3, 285; special mention all-district, second-team all-league).

“I think teamwork is key,” Threat said.

“The people that are returning know each other. The quarterback and I have a strong relationship. We communicate with the linemen. I feel like the friendship and the bond will carry us.”

Senior Casey Magyar (second-team all-state, first-team all-district, second-team allleague) returns as the kicker.

Last fall, he was 9-for-13 on field goals and made all 53 of his extra points.

Mathews will handle punting duties, and senior Nathan Ballay is the long snapper.

Hedderly, Phipps, Threats, Williams and sophomore Michael Anderson will return kicks.

DEFENSE

THE LINEUP

Russell (special mention allstate, first-team all-district, second-team all-league) is the lone starter back on the defensive line in Coffman’s 3-4 alignment.

Seniors Maguire Davis (special mention all-district, second-team all-league), O.J. Morris (second-team all-district, special mention all-league) and Devon Williams (Minnesota commit) all return at linebacker.

Threats started at defensive back a year ago, but will play

Offense Quarterbacks: *Connor Quarterbacks: Mathews (sr. 6-0, 185), Mason Maggs (jr., 6-2, 200) Running backs: *Bryon Threats (sr., 5-11, 202), Michael Anderson (so., 5-5, 150), Mitchell Broskie (jr., 60, 195), Ian Carroll (sr., 5-7, 147), Devon Williams (sr., 62, 215), Receivers: *Trey Hedderly (jr., 6-0, 165), Hayden Austin (sr., 6-1, 199), Alex Diehl (jr., 5-11, 174), Hunter Hicks (sr.,

2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ..........at Dublin Jerome *Sept. 4 .....at Olentangy Liberty *Sept. 11..vs. Olentangy Orange *Sept. 18 ...vs. Hilliard Davidson *Sept. 25.......at Upper Arlington *Oct. 2..........vs. Hilliard Bradley 2019 RESULTS (10-3 overall, 4-1 OCC-Central) Clayton Northmont .......W, 17–7 Gahanna ....................W, 45-20 Dublin Jerome............W, 31-14 Olentangy...................W, 38-16 Pickerington North.......L, 29-27 *Marysville ...................W, 28-9 *Central Crossing..........W, 49-7 *Hilliard Davidson ........L, 15-14 *Westland ..................W, 44-12 *Upper Arlington .........W, 28-14 PLAYOFFS Perrysburg .................W, 45-14 Toledo Whitmer...........W, 42-17 Springfield ......................L, 7-3 *League contest INSIDE THE SHAMROCKS •Coach: Mark Crabtree, 20th season •Top players: Hayden Austin (WR/DB), Landon Belding (OL), Maguire Davis (LB), Casey Magyar (K), Connor Mathews (QB/P), O.J. Morris (LB), Sheron Phipps (WR/DB), Hammond Russell (DL), Toby Simpson, Bryon Threats (RB/DB), Daniel Warnsman (OL), Dorian Weaver (DB) and Devon Williams (RB/LB) •Key losses: Dylan Chapa, Moussa Diallo, Mike Drennen,A.J. Kirk, Cam Kirk, Sean Moriarty, Nick Sayles, Ethan Simpson, Jameel Williamson, Colton Wolfe and Christian Yousey

5-11, 170), Maggs, Sheron Phipps (sr., 5-9, 165) Linemen: *Nathan Ballay (sr., 5-10, 259), *Landon Belding (sr., 5-10, 230), *Chris Maloney (sr., 6-2, 226), *Toby Simpson (sr., 5-10, 255), *Daniel Warnsman (sr., 6-3, 285), Koen Hill (sr., 6-0, 190), Evan Holowaty (jr., 5-11, 220), Blaine McDonald (jr., 5-10, 230) Defense Linemen: *Hammond Russell (sr., 6-4, 265), Ali AlDulaimi (jr., 5-11, 255), Kyle Buckley (jr., 6-2, 228), Evann Coy (sr., 5-8, 171), Connor Doyle (jr., 6-0, 200), Mohammad Rewar (sr., 5-10, 225), Will Smith (so., 6-1, 235) Linebackers: *Mcguire Davis (sr., 5-11, 195), *O.J. Morris (sr., 5-9, 200), *Williams, Broskie, Spencer Richardson (sr., 5-11, 172), Colin Smith (jr., 6-0, 186) Secondary: *Austin, *Dorian Weaver (sr., 5-10, 175), Dane Piekarski (jr., 6-0, 149), Phipps, Threats, Michael Trbovich (jr., 5-11, 172), Kyle Ulring (sr., 5-9, 172) Special teams Kicker: *Casey Magyar (sr., Kicker 6-0, 175) Punter: *Mathews Returners: Anderson, Hedderly, Phipps, Threats, Williams Long snapper: *Ballay (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

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18

OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

Bradley offensive coordinator Steve Trivisonno (right) speaks with tight end Jack Pugh during practice Aug. 17. Trivisonno came to the Jaguars after being the head coach at Mentor for 23 years and notching 209 victories.

SCOTT HENNEN/THISWEEK

Hilliard Bradley

Jaguars seek spark from Trivisonno

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Hilliard Bradley entered last season having won three consecutive OCC-Cardinal Division titles and coming off three consecutive trips to the Division I postseason.

The Jaguars came up short in both areas in 2019, finishing 4-6 overall and 4-3 in the league.

They believe they started moving back in the right direction by hiring Steve Trivisonno as offensive coordinator. He temporarily retired after compiling 209 wins in 23 seasons at Mentor, leading the Cardinals to 16 postseason appearances and four state runner-up finishes.

“Steve has brought in a lot of experience and ideas to our program,” said coach Mike LoParo, who is in his 10th season. “We asked him to interject his ideas. We asked him to tell us how he did things at Mentor. How did you do this? What do you think about this?

“He’s full of ideas and he has helped us run everything more smoothly. I think we have always been a wellorganized practice staff, but he has added more elements to it.”

One of Trivisonno’s more vocal supporters has been senior quarterback A.J. Mirgon, who is in his second season as the starter.

“It’s been great because (Trivisonno) has a lot of experience,” said Mirgon, who led Award-winning prep sports coverage, updated daily at ThisWeekSPORTS.com

the Jaguars in rushing and passing yards last fall. “He’s whipping us into shape and getting us ready.

“We have a lot of weapons and a lot of guys that I can get the ball to. As of right now, we’re playing quick and I’m getting the ball off quicker. We’re getting the ball into the hands of our playmakers to make plays.”

Mirgon was second-team all-district and first-team allleague last season, rushing for 687 yards and seven touchdowns on 156 carries and completing 130 of 216 passes for 1,508 yards with 15 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

“A.J is a sharp young man,” Trivisonno said.

“When he makes a mistake, he learns from it and gets better. He has been great in our intrasquad scrimmages and we’re pleased where he’s at.”

Trivisonno was hired in June, and then the Jaguars’ preseason was limited by protocols associated with the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

“We started up late, but I can tell we have a talented group from top to bottom,” Trivisonno said.

Mirgon said he was still learning the new spread offense.

“It’s a whole new offense and I’m having to learn a lot of new things,” he said. “It’s similar because it’s still a spread offense, but there has been different terminology.

I think learning it has increased my focus.”

OFFENSE

Mirgon is one of six starters back on offense, and he has some talented receivers

Junior receiver Tayshaun Mayfield is one of six returning starters on the Jaguars offense. A year ago, he had a team-leading 45 receptions for 556 yards and six touchdowns. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

returning to make his job a little easier. These include seniors Jack Pugh and Kenyon Richardson and junior Tayshaun Mayfield.

Mayfield (special mention all-district, second-team allleague) was the leading receiver last year with 45 catches for 556 yards and six touchdowns. Richardson had 16 receptions for 223 yards and two scores, and Pugh, a 6-foot-5, 230-pound Wisconsin commit, had 13 catches for 155 yards and one touchdown.

The other two returning starters are senior right tackle Matthew Cooper and senior center Cameron Ridolfo.

Senior left tackle Chance Roberts started on defense last fall and has moved across the line, where he will be joined by sophomores Saimir Refatllari and Robert Snyder at right and left guard, respectively.

“I think we have good experience back in our skill areas and we have an offensive line that has some nice pieces to it,” LoParo said.

“But they are young pieces with a couple of sophomores starting. If they can hold up and play well, we can do a lot with the passing game and with A.J.’s ability to run.”

The backfield will feature junior Peyton Archer and sophomore Trevor Schuler.

“These two running backs need to step up and be what we think that they will be,” LoParo said.

Also expect Mayfield to line up in the backfield to take advantage of his power and speed.

DEFENSE

Bradley has seven starters

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.....................at Marysville *Sept. 4 ...........vs. Upper Arlington *Sept. 11 ........at Hilliard Davidson *Sept. 18 .......at Olentangy Liberty *Sept. 25 .....vs. Olentangy Orange *Oct. 2..............at Dublin Coffman 2019 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 4-3 OCC-Cardinal) Springfield ........................L, 44-7 Olentangy Orange ...........L, 17-14 Hilliard Davidson ...............L, 17-9 *Hilliard Darby...................L, 13-7 *Thomas Worthington.....W, 43-10 *Dublin Scioto .................L, 38-36 *Olentangy Berlin ...........W, 21-19 *Dublin Jerome...............L, 43-14 *Worthington Kilbourne.....W, 49-7

back in its multiple-front scheme, including three on the line.

Pugh (honorable mention all-league) is back after recording 43 tackles, four tackles for loss and three sacks. Also back up front are Roberts (23 tackles) and senior Walter Williams (36 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss).

“You have those three starters from last year on the defensive line, but they play a lot of offense and we will be using a rotation up front,” LoParo said.

“You’ll see as many as six other dudes rolling in there to make sure everyone is fresh.”

Two linebackers and two defensive backs also are returning starters. Junior strong-side linebacker Mitchell Robinson had 69 tackles, two sacks and one interception a year ago, and senior Ryan Barkhimer is back on the weak side.

Senior cornerback Jordan Thompson (30 tackles) and senior safety Caden VanVorhis (53 tackles) also are

*Delaware......................W, 21-17 *League contest INSIDE THE JAGUARS •Coach: Mike LoParo, 10th season •Top players: Matthew Cooper OL), Tayshaun Mayfield (WR), A.J. Mirgon (QB), Jack Pugh (TE/DL), Kenyon Richardson (WR), Cameron Ridolfo (OL), Chance Roberts (OL/DL), Mitchell Robinson (LB), Jordan Thompson (DB), Caden VanVorhis (RB/DB) and Walter Williams (DL) •Key losses: Abe Ayers, Cameron Bordner,Jacob Curl,Matthew Drovdlic, Luke Erwin, Zach Komlosi, Nathan Ludaway, Chris Mayfield, David Metzler, Jacob Noble, Ethan Poff, Zach Winget, Evan Yee and Dillon Ysseldyke

back.

“We have been fast, fast fast,” VanVorhis said about the defense. "We have some great guys coming back, and we have a lot more confidence. We’re just moving to the ball, getting there quicker and making plays.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Handling the kicking duties will be freshman Jake Walter, who is vying with Archer to punt.

Archer, junior Mason Koons, Mayfield, Richardson and Thompson are all expected to be in the mix to return kicks. The long snapper will be VanVorhis.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Quarterbacks:*A.J. Mirgon (sr., 6-0, 190), Mitchell Kinser (jr., 6-1, 170) Running backs: *Peyton Archer (jr., 5-11, 175), *Trevor Schuler (so., 5-9, 180), Tayshaun Mayfield (jr., 6-1, 210), Caden VanVorhis (jr., 6-1, 205)

R eceivers: *Mayfield, *Kenyon Richardson (sr., 61, 160), Andrew Custer (so., 6-0, 180), Jake Duffer (sr., 511, 175), Justice Ross (sr., 510, 170), Preston Wolfe (fr., 6-2, 180) Tight end: *Jack Pugh (sr., 6-5, 230) Linemen: *Matthew Cooper (sr., 6-1, 220), *Saimir Refatllari (so., 6-2, 230),*Cameron Ridolfo (sr., 6-0, 210), *Chance Roberts (sr., 6-4, 240), *Robert Snyder (so., 6-2, 275), Yaser Awale (sr., 6-0, 235), Aiden Bruntz (jr., 6-0, 220) Defense Linemen: *Pugh, *Walter Williams (sr., 5-10, 220), Andrew Brooks (sr., 5-11, 205), Victor Dandridge (jr., 6-2, 205), Jackson Lemle (so., 6-0, 260), Roberts, Matt Sailor (sr., 6-2, 215), Jack Sandberg (sr., 6-1, 215), Kieran Vallo (jr., 6-3, 225) Linebackers: *Ryan Barkhimer (sr., 6-0, 190), *Peyton Murphy (jr., 6-3, 190), *Mitchell Robinson (jr., 6-1, 220), Kavin Mottola (sr., 5-10, 200), Cameron Neely (so., 6-0, 185) Secondary: *Max Cooper (jr., 6-0, 180), Mason Koons (jr., 5-11, 175), *Jordan Thompson (sr., 5-10, 170), *VanVorhis, Jared Pallay (sr., 6-1, 170), Deacon Sawchuk (sr., 5-9, 170), E.J. Teah (so., 6-0, 175) Special teams Kicker: *Jake Walter (fr., 5-10, 150) Punters: Walter, Archer Returners: Archer, Koons, Mayfield, Richardson, Thompson Long snapper: *VanVorhis (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

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OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

Coaching change doesn’t alter goals

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Although it has a new leader for the first time in more than two decades, the goals remain the same at Hilliard Davidson.

Jeremey Scally, a longtime assistant in the program, has returned to coach the Wildcats after guiding Upper Arlington for one season.

He replaces Brian White, who stepped down after 21 seasons.

Scally, who served as an assistant under White for 12 seasons before coaching the Golden Bears in 2019, led UA to a 10-7 win over Davidson for its first win in the series in 12 years.

He will coach against his former team when the Wildcats play host to the Golden Bears on Oct. 2.

Scally inherits a program that is coming off a Division I, Region 3 postseason appearance and a share of the OCCCentral Division title with Dublin Coffman and UA, as all three teams finished 4-1.

Scally shared league Coach of the Year honors with White and Coffman’s Mark Crabtree.

“We tell our guys best is the standard,” Scally said. “That means day-to-day I want them to be the best kid in the school, but I also want them to be the best football player and I want them to be the best person. Our goals are to win the conference and (advance) in the playoffs.”

The new era in Davidson football kicked off Aug. 27 when Davidson visited Hilliard Darby in a non-league contest.

The Wildcats open OCC-Central play Friday, Sept. 4, at Olentangy Orange.

“The goals stay the same,” senior Kevin Roberts said.

“Obviously, coach Scally learned under coach White, so a lot of the rules, principles and standards are the same. …The first goal is an OCC title.”

To reach that first goal, the Wildcats must figure out how to fill the holes left in the lineup after the departure of 27 seniors from last year’s team..

Key losses include seven first-team all-league selections in Cameron Curry (OL/DL), Sean Carrier (K/P), Alex Painter (WR/DB), Nick Sands

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 27 .............at Hilliard Darby *Sept. 4......at Olentangy Orange *Sept. 11 .......vs. Hilliard Bradley *Sept. 18........at Dublin Coffman *Sept. 25.....at Olentangy Liberty *Oct 2 ...........vs. Upper Arlington 2019 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 4-1 OCC-Central) Grove City......................W, 27-0 Hilliard Darby ...............W, 30-14 Hilliard Bradley...............W, 17-9 Olentangy Liberty..........L, 22-10 Pickerington Central........L, 28-7 *Central Crossing...........W, 35-0 *Upper Arlington .............L, 10-7 *Dublin Coffman ..........W, 15-14 *Marysville...................W, 23-14 *Westland....................W, 31-13 PLAYOFFS Groveport .....................L, 18-17 *League contest INSIDE THE WILDCATS •Coach: Jeremey Scally, first season •Top players: Jayden Humphrey (WR/DB), Jordan Lyles (WR/DB), Kaden Miller (OL/DL), Nick Monroe (DL), Leo Nixon (RB), Kyle Pepera (QB/LB), Blake Pettit (QB), Kevin Roberts (TE/DL), Owen Savage (OL/DL) and Jonathan Weir (RB) •Key losses: Dylan Bunyak, Sean Carrier, Nick Dymek, Gage Keys, Dylan Kokoska, Nick Sands, Evan Tekancic and Kristopher Thornton

Junior Leo Nixon will line up at fullback for Wildcats first-year coach Jeremey Scally.

MATTHEW HATCHER/THISWEEK

(OL/DL), Evan Tekancic (QB/DB), Kristopher Thornton (RB/LB) and Zach Woo (WR/DB).

Sands also was first-team all-district and second-team all-state.

White is the program’s alltime winningest coach, having compiled a 199-58 record.

He guided the Wildcats to 17 postseason appearances, including Division I state championships in 2006 and 2009, and 12 OCC titles.

“Transitions are hard, change is hard,” Scally said.

“This is a unique situation.

Coming back to a place you were for a long time and trying to move it forward while making some changes is hard.

I’ve learned that quickly.”

Davidson will again feature a triple-option offense, but

Scally also hopes to give the passing game a more prominent role when the Wildcats have the ball.

“The biggest difference is we go to the gun,” Scally said.

“I’ve been really proud of the kids with that transition, but philosophically we like to run the ball and stop the run.

“In high school football, we’re still going to believe in those two principles offensively and defensively. We’re going to run the option and we’re going to run some power. We’ll have play-action off of it, but it’s still a run-first program.”

Senior Kyle Pepera is expected to direct the offense at quarterback.

“Every day we come out here we’re so excited that we get a chance,” Pepera said.

“Even in the heat, the six-hour practices, we’re working our tails off every single day. We’re just getting ready.”

Junior Jonathan Weir should be a featured tailback after rushing for a team-high 686 yards and 12 touchdowns on 145 carries. Weir was second-team all-league and will be running behind junior fullback Leo Nixon.

The team has depth at receiver, led by seniors Aiden DeCarlo, Cy Hess, Jayden Humphrey and D.J. Thornton, while returning starters on the line are seniors Kaden Miller (left guard) and Owen Savage (right guard).

“The goals do not change, they’re still the same,” Miller said. “It’s win OCC and take the playoffs.”

Juniors Brady Abele (center) and Will Knapke (left tackle) also were expected to start up front, and juniors Anthony Carey and Carson Coles were competing for the starting spot at right tackle during the preseason.

“We’d been talking about (playing defense) down the road but once we got out here and got to it, I was prepared since I’d been practicing during the summer,” said McGraw, who played linebacker as a freshman and will split time between defensive end and defensive tackle. “I worked in a few reps last year on the line. It’s nothing new to me, I just have to put in work

toward actual game reps.”

Gossett had 72 tackles last year, including eight for loss and two sacks. “(Gossett) can play anywhere in that front seven and we’ll rotate him anywhere,” said Westcamp, adding that he expects to rotate liberally on the line and with the linebackers. “That’s how good we think he is. He is pretty special.”

Motton had a team-leading

three interceptions a year ago. “(The secondary) is where we think we’re strong, but that’s where everybody is coming back for us,” Westcamp said. “We’re pretty experienced there.”

OFFENSE

At 6-foot-4 and 245 pounds, Roberts should be a threat at tight end.

DEFENSE

The Wildcats will again utilize a 50-shade defense, with Roberts anchoring the line at end.

Junior Adrick Phillips will be the starting Leo linebacker, which is a hybrid position that lines up across from the tight end with responsibility for rushing the quarterback and stopping the run.

Also seeing action on the line will be seniors Cole Coppess and Ben Curry and juniors Nick Monroe and Preston Sweet, with Pepera and seniors Cody Hummell, Will Riffe and A.J. Zody joining Phillips at linebacker.

Humphrey and senior Jordan Lyles should lead the secondary at safety, and Weir, senior A.J. McCoy and sophomore Jayden Phillips will play cornerback.

“There’s probably more con-

tinuity on defense than there is on offense just, because of a couple of changes offensively,” Scally said.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Carrier handled both the kicking and punting for Davidson a year ago, and senior Lorenzo Nieves and junior Aiden Ighnat shared those duties in the preseason.

Humphrey, Nixon, Jayden Phillips and Weir are among those expected to return kicks, and Abele and Roberts are the long snappers.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Kyle Pepera (sr., 6-0, 190), Blake Pettit (jr., 5-10, 180) Running backs: *Leo Nixon (jr., 5-8, 175), *Jonathan Weir (jr., 5-11, 185) Receivers: *Aidan DeCarlo (sr., 5-9, 160), *Cy Hess (sr., 6-0, 140), Jack Fantin (sr., 63, 200), Jayden Humphrey (sr., 6-1, 165), D.J. Thornton (sr., 5-8, 165) Tight end: *Kevin Roberts (sr., 6-4, 245) Linemen: *Will Knapke (jr., 6-3, 235), *Kaden Miller (sr., 5-11, 230), *Owen Savage (sr., 5-10, 230), Anthony Carey (jr., 5-10, 220), Carson Coles (jr., 5-11, 200) Defense Linemen: *Ben Curry (sr., 5-7, 185), *Adrick Phillips (jr., 6-0, 210), *Roberts, Cole Coppess (sr., 6-0, 235), Nick Monroe (jr., 5-10, 245), Preston Sweet (jr., 5-8, 195) Linebackers: *Cody Hummell (sr., 5-11, 205), *Will Riffe (sr., 6-1, 185), *A.J. Zody (sr., 6-2, 200), Pepera Secondary: *Humphrey, *Jordan Lyles (sr., 5-10, 175), *A.J. McCoy (sr., 5-8, 150), Jayden Phillips (so., 5-9, 162), Weir Special teams Kickers: Aiden Ighnat (jr., 5-10, 155), Lorenzo Nieves (sr., 5-10, 170) Punters: Ighnat, Nieves Returners: Humphrey, Nixon, Jayden Phillips, Weir Long sn snaappers: Abele, Roberts (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

CRUISERS FROM >> 14

DEFENSE

McGraw is adding duties on the defensive line, further boosting a unit that already has five returning starters in Aekins, senior cornerbacks Mike Davis and John Motton, Clarence Gossett and junior free safety Delaney Wilburn.

Wilburn was a starting linebacker last year.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Seniors Jeffrey Asamoah and Foday Camara, both soccer players, will split placekicking and kickoff duties.

They succeed 2020 graduate Austin Snyder, who made 48 of 50 extra-point tries last year and averaged 40.4 yards per punt.

Snyder signed to kick at Findlay.

Junior Hunter Rathburn will be the punter.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Isaiah Rogers

(sr., 5-10, 185), Markell Holmes (jr., 5-10, 165), Jaden Hill (so.)

Running backs: *Te-Ron Coleman (sr., 5-7, 155), *Jashaun McGraw (sr., 5-11, 240), *Jalil Underdown (sr., 5-9, 185), Jayahn King (jr.), Hunter Rathburn (jr., 5-9, 190), Jayden Sawyer (jr.)

Receivers: *Elyjah Aekins

GROVEPORT >> 23

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Hilliard Davidson

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OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

Olentangy Orange

Safety protocols gave Pioneers discipline

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Many look at the protocols in place for sports because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic as a necessary evil to get through these everchanging times.

Olentangy Orange coach Zebb Schroeder has a different outlook, however.

Schroeder sees wearing masks, sterilizing hands and equipment and social-distancing as just another way his team can get an edge on its opponents.

“Vocabulary can be very moving for kids,” said Schroeder, whose team finished 10-2 overall and won its second consecutive OCCBuckeye Division title a year ago. “It’s not social distancing but social discipline. That should be our weapon.

“One of our strengths as a program is that our kids are disciplined, and they enjoy discipline. I feel like all summer long that has been a strength of ours. All it takes is one kid making a bad choice and that has an effect on the entire team.

“We’re going to take every precaution we can, Every decision they make on a daily basis can help keep our team on the field.”

Schroeder’s approach has caught the attention of senior Colin McNay, a returning starter at linebacker.

“It’s definitely been an unusual offseason,” McNay said. “What coach Schroeder has harped on the most is that health is our weapon, and we want to make sure we have a season. One guy gets COVID and our season could be done.

I think the priority right now is getting through the season and allowing our juniors and seniors to at least get a season.”

Despite the masks, the hand sanitizer and the lack of film sessions because of social distancing, senior Jadon Ampadu said workouts have not lacked the passion of the past.

“Coach has been focusing on staying safe, wearing our masks and making sure we’re doing as much as we can to make sure we have a season,” said Ampadu, another returning starter at linebacker. “We still want to have our practices at the same intensity as they always have been.”

The Pioneers have reached the postseason for the last four years, but posted their first first playoff victory during that stretch with a 36-17 win over Pickerington North in the opening round in Division I, Region 3. That victory avenged a 28-17 setback in Week 3 of the regular season..

“That win really boosts

Orange’s Jadon Ampadu (18) and Luke Houston (7) break up a pass during a game last season. Both return as starting linebackers for the Pioneers, who finished 10-2 last season and won the OCC-Buckeye title at 5-0. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

us,” said Caden Konczak, a three-year starter at wide receiver. “A couple years back, you wouldn’t have thought that this program would be considered a powerhouse but the last couple of senior classes have set a precedent for what you need to do. We have to set an example and push everyone to be the best that they can be if we want to do well this year.”

After defeating North, Orange lost 44-0 in a regional semifinal to Pickerington Central, which went on to beat Cincinnati Elder 21-14 in the state final.

“We didn’t play our best game and I didn’t call a very good game against Pickerington Central,” Schroeder said. “But it’s continuing to raise the bar. As a program we need to keep getting better.

“At the time, it was crushing and a hard pill to swallow. But playing Pick Central and Pick North and playing (Dublin) Coffman and (Hilliard) Davidson this year and playing Liberty every year is going to make you better. It will help our program raise the bar.”

OFFENSE

The Pioneers will have their fifth quarterback in as many seasons with senior Josh Laisure leading a pack

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...................vs. Olentangy *Sept. 4.........vs. Hilliard Davidson *Sept. 11 ..........at Dublin Coffman *Sept. 18 .........vs. Upper Arlington *Sept. 25...........at Hilliard Bradley *Oct. 2 vs. .........Olentangy Liberty 2019 RESULTS (10-2 overall, 5-0 OCC-Buckeye) Worthington Kilbourne ......W, 16-6 Hilliard Bradley...............W, 17-14 Pickerington North ..........L, 38-17 Big Walnut .......................W, 34-3 Westland..........................W, 52-0 *Westerville North ............W, 30-7 *Olentangy.....................W, 28-14 *Westerville Central..........W, 14-6 *Olentangy Liberty............W, 10-7 *Westerville South..........W, 42-24 PLAYOFFS Pickerington North..........W, 36-17 Pickerington Central..........L, 44-0

of four players in the preseason, according to Schroeder.

A year ago, graduate Spencer Hawkins completed 139 of 263 passes for 1,854 yards with 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. He was first-team all-district and allleague and third-team allstate.

Laisure and seniors Logan Shearer and Ryan Swiger and Jake Werling are vying to run the pro-style spread attack.

Laisure was second-team allleague as a defensive back with 49.5 tackles and two interceptions.

“Josh is the leader at the turn and we have three other quarterbacks who are doing

*League contest INSIDE THE PIONEERS •Coach: Zebb Schroeder, seventh season •Top players: Luke Applegate (RB), Jadon Ampadu (LB), Dylan Dempsey (DL), Joey Guagenti (WR/DB), Luke Houston (RB/LB), Caden Konczak (WR), Josh Laisure (QB), Tanner Lester (DL), Colin McNay (LB), Ryan Minott (OL) and Dom Sylvesteri (OL/DL) •Key losses: Dennis Acheampong, Jack Almond, Tanner Davidson, Reece Dunham, Jack Fenton, Spencer Hawkins, Zach Hill, Zane Lattig, Evan Leist, Alex Lopez, Connor Mathena, Nate Miller, Matt Momberg, Cardan Mutai, Jared Pack, Eli Payne, Nathaniel Roffman, Najib Talukder, Jake Vanchieri, Sam Wyne and Josh Young

well and they also deserve a look,” Schroeder said.

Senior running back Luke Applegate is one of six starters back on offense along with senior fullback Luke Brandt. Applegate split time with 2020 graduate Jake Vanchieri, gaining 324 yards on 77 carries with three touchdowns.

“I hope Luke Applegate stays healthy because on paper he should have a really good season,” “Schroeder said. “If he stays healthy, he should. He’s 6-foot-2, 208 pounds and is one of our fastest kids.”

Senior Julian DiSabato and Konczak (second-team all-

league) are returning starters at wide receiver. Konczak had 39 receptions for a teamleading 584 yards and six touchdowns.

Seniors Ryan Minott (guard) and Dom Silvestri (tackle) are returning starters on the line.

“The guys are sticking together well and we’re excited to get things going with new faces against new teams,” Minott said. “It’s going to be an exciting season.

“I think we have some good senior leaders this year.

This senior class really jells together well and brings everyone together.”

tackles, 1 interception) and junior Luke Houston (22.5 tackles) return at linebacker.

Joey Guagenti is back to anchor the secondary. He was honorable mention all-district and second-team allleague after recording 38 tackles, one interception, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.

“We’ve been working hard,” Guagenti said. “We have a super young team in terms of experience on the defensive side. We’re young in places but we have a lot of talent. I’m looking forward to seeing how those kids play when we get to the season.”

DEFENSE

Orange returns junior kicker Jack Behre, who was special mention all-district and first-team all-league.

He was 10-for-15 on field goals and 32-for-34 on extra points.

Laisure will handle punting duties with Applegate, and senior Joey Dimeo is the long snapper.

Guagenti, Konczak and junior Jordan Rudolph will return kicks.

Orange has seven starters back in its 3-5 alignment, including three up front.

Seniors Dylan Dempsey (23 tackles, 3 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions), Tanner Lester and Tyler Yanka all return with a rotation of seniors Geoff Kaminski, Antonio Mitchell and Silvestri and junior Rico Franklin subbing in to keep fresh bodies on the field.

“Dylan, Tanner and Tyler are all tough, gritty, throwback kind of kids,” Schroeder said. “They’re all seniors, and they’ve played a lot of football for us.”

Ampadu (38 tackles, 2 interceptions), McNay (27

SPECIAL TEAMS

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Josh Laisure (sr., 5-11, 165), Logan Shearer (sr., 6-2, 205),

PIONEERS >> 21

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Olentangy Liberty

Depth again is strength for Patriots

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Since a 5-5 finish in 2013, Olentangy Liberty has put together the second-best winning percentage among bigschool programs in central Ohio, behind only 2017 and 2019 state champion Pickerington Central.

Establishing a program that has gone 59-18 the past six seasons means that the Patriots’ depth of experience grows every year thanks to the extra weeks of postseason practice.

It also has helped that Liberty’s participation numbers never disappoint.

“We’ve got 100 in grades 10 through 12, so our numbers are really good and our depth is really good,” coach Steve Hale said. “We have a lot of guys to do it with, which is nice, and we have a lot of decent high school football players.”

Liberty followed three consecutive appearances in Division I state semifinals by winning its first eight games last fall.

Although a 10-7 loss to Olentangy Orange in Week 9 cost the Patriots the league title, as they went 4-1 and the Pioneers finished 5-0 in the OCC-Buckeye, Liberty still earned the No. 1 seed in Region 3.

Its season ended with a 137 loss in a regional semifinal to fourth-seeded Groveport, which avenged a 21-14 regular-season setback to Liberty.

The Patriots have since moved to the OCC-Central Division and follow their opener Aug. 28 at Olentangy Berlin by playing host to new conference foe Dublin Coffman on Friday, Sept. 4.

Orange, Hilliard Bradley, Hilliard Davidson and Upper Arlington are the other programs in the OCC-Central.

These six teams went a combined 47-21 last fall.

Liberty has made six consecutive playoff appearances

and will add to that total this year with every team eligible for the postseason.

“We’re just coming in every day like it’s our last, and if we do get a season and get to the playoffs, we’re hoping to make a run and make it to the championship,” senior Drew Thornton said.

“It’s been tough to try and get the guys to come together and build the team culture that we had the past few years, but with the workouts we’ve been able to have, we’ve been able to do that the best we can.”

OFFENSE

Senior Mitch Fields was expected to be the quarterback heading into the season after serving behind Jackson Roberts and Corbin Parrish, who split time a year ago.

Parrish threw for 955 yards and nine touchdowns and Roberts passed for 1,199 yards and eight scores.

“Mitch was our (junior varsity) starter last year and one of our backups and he’s looked really good so far in camp,” Hale said. “He’s been in our system for six years, has got a decent arm, moves well and should be familiar to the guys from the past few years.”

Senior Aidan Kenley returns for his third season at running back. After rushing for 1,044 yards and three touchdowns as a sophomore, Kenley rushed 92 times for 477 yards and six touchdowns but was hurt at the end of last season.

Sophomore Caden Minniti is one of the team’s top athletes and could make an impact in the backfield, as should senior Tyler Rosselli.

Senior wide receiver Cam Barcus finished with 45 catches for 622 yards and five touchdowns. Senior Dom Magistrale also was among the key wide receivers last season.

Senior Matthew Wrather, whose brother, 2020 gradu-

Steve Hale is in his 18th season with Liberty, which finished 10-2 overall and 4-1 in the OCC-Buckeye last year.

SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

ate Ben Wrather, is now competing for Northwestern, returns to anchor the line.

Junior Ben Huefner started two games last season, and Hale also has high expectations for junior Carter Smith up front.

DEFENSE

Despite losing first-team all-district players Ben Cox (LB) and Kaden Tong (DL) along with special mention all-district honoree Dylan Stevens (LB) on defense, Hale is optimistic about the players who are replacing them.

Seniors Jacob Bonacci and Josh Piela are at end, junior Dylan Graber is at nose tackle and the line also should include junior Brandon Smith, who Hale calls a “potential scholarship player.”

Senior Brian Yamokoski leads a linebacker corps that also will feature seniors Carson Carrier, Parker Flinn and Adam Lane and junior Shane Flanagan.

“These are guys that haven’t played a lot, but they’re not bad players,” Hale said.

Senior Drew Thornton will be at free safety after earning second-team all-district and second-team all-league honors. He finished with three interceptions a year ago.

Seniors Reid Follmer and Joseph Dierker, junior Austin

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........at Olentangy Berlin *Sept. 4...........vs. Dublin Coffman *Sept. 11 ..........at Upper Arlington *Sept. 18..........vs. Hilliard Bradley *Sept. 25 .......vs. Hilliard Davidson *Oct. 2 ..........at Olentangy Orange 2019 RESULTS (10-2 overall, 4-1 OCC-Buckeye) Pickerington North..........W, 31-19 Huber Heights Wayne .....W, 19-10 Cleveland Glenville ...........W, 35-0 Hilliard Davidson ............W, 22-10 Groveport.......................W, 21-14 *Westerville Central..........W, 17-7 *Westerville South..........W, 37-20 *Olentangy.....................W, 24-21 *Orange............................L, 10-7 *Westerville North ............W, 35-7 PLAYOFFS Westerville Central ...........W, 14-7

Bird and Minniti are among those who could see time at cornerback.

“We have depth,” Hale said.

“We do have a ton of guys, which we needed last year through all of those crazy injuries.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Rosselli returns at kicker after making 28 extra points and going 4-for-7 in field goals, including making two kicks of 30 yards or longer.

Rosselli also had nine touchbacks and averaged 52 yards on kickoffs.

Thornton returned 25 punts

Groveport..........................L, 13-7 *League contest INSIDE THE PATRIOTS •Coach: Steve Hale, 18th season •Top players: Cam Barcus (WR), Jacob Bonacci (DL/TE), Mitch Fields (QB),Aidan Kenley (RB), Dom Magistrale (WR), Tyler Rosselli (RB/WR), Drew Thornton (DB), Matthew Wrather (OL) and Brian Yamokoski (LB) •Key losses: Andrew Barrett, Matthew Barrett, Ryan Bird, Tyson Chapman, Ben Cox, Ben Flees, Jack Forsman, Jacob Kessler,A.J. Rausch, Miller Ridpath, Corbin Parrish, Ryan Ritter, Jackson Roberts, Brennan Rowe, Dylan Stevens, Tyus Thompson, Kaden Tong, Kyle Wilson and Ben Wrather

and should fill that role again, while.Barcus and Kenley were the top kickoff returners.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Mitch Fields (sr., 5-10, 180), Ryan Grohe (jr., 6-1, 165), Matt Wilson (so., 6-0, 160) Running backs: *Aidan Kenley (sr., 5-11, 185), Caden Minniti (so., 6-0, 175), Tyler Rosselli (sr., 5-6, 165) Receivers: *Cam Barcus (sr., 6-2, 185), *Dom Magistrale (sr., 6-0, 175), Chase Brecht (jr., 6-1, 180), Joseph Dierker (sr., 5-11, 175), Jack

Feeman (sr., 5-6, 150), Matt Hale (sr., 6-0, 185), Rosselli Tight end: Jacob Bonacci (sr., 6-2, 240) Linemen: *Mitch Fuller (sr., 6-3, 245), *Ben Huefner (jr., 6-3, 310), *Carter Smith (jr., 6-6, 250), *Matthew Wrather (sr., 5-11, 220), Michael Mileti (sr., 6-2, 250), Ryan Repasky (sr., 6-3, 245) Defense Linemen: *Bonacci, *Dylan Graber (jr., 6-4, 250), *Josh Piela (sr., 6-0, 215), *Brandon Smith (jr., 6-0, 205) Linebackers: *Carson Carrier (sr., 5-8, 165), *Brian Yamokoski (sr., 6-0, 190), Shane Flanagan (jr., 5-11, 190), Parker Flinn (sr., 6-1, 227), Adam Lane (sr., 6-2, 195) Secondary: *Austin Bird (jr., 5-9, 165), *Reid Follmer (sr., 6-2, 180), *Drew Thornton (sr., 5-6, 165), Carrier, Dierker, Minniti, Frederick Noday (jr., 5-8, 165), Andrew Stamp (jr., 5-9, 175) Special teams Kickers: *Rosselli, Keaton Butler (sr., 5-10, 165) Punters: Bird, Fields Returners: *Kenley, Barcus, Magistrale, Minniti, Thornton Long snapper: *Yamokoski (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

PIONEERS FROM >> 20

Ryan Swiger (sr., 6-2, 195), Jake Werling (jr., 6-0, 175) R unning backs: *Luke Applegate (sr., 6-2, 208), *Luke Brandt (sr., 5-10, 210), Jeff Asante (jr., 6-0, 182), Isaac Campbell (jr., 6-0, 215), Luke Houston (jr., 6-1, 205), Bobby Ogles (so., 5-10, 185),

Josh Pearson (jr., 5-10, 170), Ryan Sevilla (sr., 6-1, 185) Receivers: *Julian DiSabato (sr., 5-11, 166), *Caden Konczak (sr., 5-10, 164), Joey Guagenti (sr., 6-0, 170), Evan Merklin (jr., 6-0, 145), Max Reidelbach (jr., 6-3, 180), Andre Robinson (jr., 5-11, 175), Jordan Rudolph (jr., 60, 150)

Tight ends: *Rico Franklin (jr., 6-3, 235), Shearer Lineme menn: *Carter Bluvol (sr., 5-10, 275), *Connor Kemmerling (jr., 6-6, 285), *Aidan McDonald (jr., 6-2, 250),*Ryan Minott (sr., 6-0, 205), *Dom Silvestri (sr., 64, 210), Jake Burre (jr., 5-10, 235), Geoff Kaminski (sr., 60, 205), Ty Miller (jr., 5-11,

260)

Defense Linemen: *Dylan Dempsey (sr., 6-0, 210), *Tanner Lester (sr., 6-0, 225), *Tyler Yanka (sr., 6-0, 205), Franklin, Kaminski, Antonio Mitchell (sr., 5-11, 230), Silvestri Linebackers: *Jadon Ampadu (sr., 6-2, 207), Luke

Brandt, *Houston, *Colin McNay (sr., 5-11, 166), Asante Campbell, Joey Dimeo (sr., 6-0, 190), Brandon Fedio (jr., 6-0, 200), Sevilla Secondary:*Guagenti, *IsaSecondary: iah Wilder (sr., 6-0, 165), Robinson, Rudolph, Junior Sarpong (jr., 5-10, 165) Special teams

Kickers: *Jack Behre (jr., 5-8, 145), Aidan Hill (sr., 511, 145) Punter: *Laisure Returners: Applegate, Guagenti, Konczak, Rudolph Long snapper: *Dimeo (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

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22

OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

Upper Arlington

Bears adapt to Buttermore’s new schemes

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Justin Buttermore is well aware that he is Upper Arlington’s third coach in as many seasons, and for that reason he expected the Golden Bears to need acclimation time – especially to a spread look on offense – as the season opener approached Aug. 28 at home against Westerville Central.

But given that the Bears used each of their camp days during the summer to learn new offensive and defensive schemes, the two weeks in early August in which they were limited to weightlifting and conditioning pursuant of school district policy provided less of a hurdle than they might have otherwise.

“I think our kids handled it well and the coaches handled it well,” said Buttermore, who was hired in late March after coaching at Granville the past two years and Dresden TriValley for 14 seasons before that. “A lot of what comes along with practice in August is ironing out the mistakes and getting enough reps that the kids kind of understand exactly what we’re looking for as a staff. After having that layoff, I thought the kids did a great job.

“I thought we were much further ahead than what we typically would be because we had such a great camp and we were able to instruct the guys.

But we just noticed a ton of little mistakes at each position that probably get corrected usually in the first few weeks of August just through the sheer number of reps.”

Among the key returnees from last year’s team that went 6-4 overall and 4-1 in the OCCCentral Division, sharing its first league championship since 2008 with Dublin Coffman and Hilliard Davidson, are seniors Jack Flowers, Joe Hendrix and Brady Orlandini on the offensive line, classmates Marco Landolfi and Shea Keethler at linebacker and free safety, respectively, senior defensive lineman Dominic Chiavaroli and junior running back Carson Gresock.

Buttermore entered the season with a 151-55 career record, including two 10-2 seasons at Granville. Tri-Valley was Division III state runnerup in 2017.

Buttermore succeeds Jeremey Scally, who became Davidson coach in January.

UA begins OCC-Central play Friday, Sept. 4, at Hilliard Bradley.

“We were a young team last year and we have a lot of leadership on the defensive side.

Our new system isn’t crazy different from what we ran last year so we’re comfortable there,” said Keethler, a firstteam all-district and special

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...vs. Westerville Central *Sept. 4 .........at Hilliard Bradley *Sept. 11 ..vs. Olentangy Liberty *Sept. 18...at Olentangy Orange *Sept. 25 .....vs. Dublin Coffman *Oct. 2 ........at Hilliard Davidson 2019 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 4-1 OCC-Central) Reynoldsburg ................L, 23-9 Dayton Belmont............W, 49-6 Cin. Winton Woods.........L, 30-7 Westerville South.........L, 28-21 Lancaster...................W, 31-21 *Westland ..................W, 41-23 *Hilliard Davidson .........W, 10-7 *Marysville ...................W, 10-6 *Central Crossing........W, 35-14 *Dublin Coffman..........L, 28-14 *League contest INSIDE THE GOLDEN BEARS •Coach: Justin Buttermore, first season •Top players: Doak Buttermore (DB/RB), Sam Cannon (WR/KR), Dominic Chiavaroli (DL), Jack Flowers (OL), Carson Gresock (RB), Shea Keethler (DB), Marco Landolfi (LB), Simon Monnin (QB) and Matt Weaver (LB) •Key losses: Eli D’Herete, Shaun DuPont, Liam Keethler, Jake Leve, Sean McRae and Chris Schweisthal

Carson Gresock rushed for 529 yards and four touchdowns as a sophomore last season, when the Golden Bears finished 6-4 overall.

KYLE ROBERTSTON/THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH

ball. We’ll be led by those four up front because of the experience,” coach Buttermore said.

“It’s a pretty physical group, fast and athletic. Overall, we feel comfortable with all three levels of the defense, but there’s certainly work to do.”

mention all-state selection last year. “Our offense seems to be clicking really fast and picking up all the new stuff pretty well. That energy is transferring into us learning and being ready to play.”

OFFENSE

Flowers at left guard, Hendrix at center and Orlandini at right guard are returning starters on the offensive line. They will be flanked by senior Peter Mimnaugh at right tackle and junior John Pritchett at left tackle in front of junior firstyear starting quarterback Simon Monnin.

Flowers was named honorable mention all-district last year.

As a backup in 2019, Monnin completed eight of 20 passes for 103 yards with a touchdown and three interceptions and rushed eight times for 35 yards.

“We’re not huge up front, but there’s no question our offensive line is going to have to lead the way,” Buttermore said. “All of our quarterbacks (the others being senior Aidan Barry and sophomore James Hayek) are a work in progress.

All of them have been a part of a wing-T system, an option or a power-run system in the last four years. The downside is they’ve gone through three coaches in three years. None of those (systems) were spread systems. ... Their footwork, their ability to read coverage, those are things they haven’t had to do a whole lot of.”

Gresock rushed for 529 yards and four touchdowns on 92 carries last year, and junior

SPECIAL TEAMS

Dominic Chiavaroli, a senior defensive lineman, is one of several returning starters for first-year coach Justin Buttermore.

ALEX CONRATH/THISWEEK

Chris Reynolds added 40 carries for 315 yards and a touchdown.

Junior Sam Cannon was UA’s top receiver with 14 catches for 257 yards and two scores.

“He’s an explosive kid,” Buttermore said of Cannon.

“We have to get the ball in his hands.”

DEFENSE

Three of UA’s top four tacklers from a year ago return in senior linebacker Matt Weaver (70), Landolfi (62) and Keethler (58).

Keethler also made a teamleading four interceptions and expects the Bears not to miss a beat as they adjust to running a shade 50 in their base front as well as several 3-4 packages. “(The) coverages aren’t too

different; it’s more about terminology for us,” Keethler said.

“We’re all pretty veteran and comfortable with changing a couple things.”

Landolfi was named honorable mention all-district last year.

Juniors Carter Brock and Doak Buttermore, the coach’s son, started at linebacker and defensive back for Granville last year as the Blue Aces advanced to a Division III, Region 11 semifinal. Doak Buttermore also rushed for 541 yards and 10 touchdowns on 117 carries.

Senior Michael Ballenger is expected to help lead the linebackers, and classmate Adam Cipriano should do the same in the secondary along with Keethler.

“One thing we’ll be is pretty experienced on that side of the

Junior Zac Yoakam made all 29 of his extra-point attempts and six of 11 fieldgoal tries as a sophomore. He also had six touchbacks.

Senior punter Garrett Junk returns after averaging 35.2 yards per punt on 31 attempts.

“Garrett Junk is certainly one of the best punters in the state of Ohio. He’s not only a terrific punter but a really good athlete in case things break down. He can do a number of different things. He has all the punts you need and that’s not necessarily always true of a high school punter,” coach Buttermore said. “Yoakam is an excellent place-kicker. He has great range, 50-plus yard range.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Simon Monnin (jr., 6-0, 185), Aidan Berry (sr., 5-10, 180), James Hayek (so., 5-11, 155) Running backs: *Carson Gresock (jr., 5-10, 210), *Chris Reynolds (jr., 6-1, 175), Doak Buttermore (jr., 5-9, 180), Dino Gesouras (jr., 5-8, 150), Jaylin Hines (sr., 6-0, 155) Receivers: *Sam Cannon (jr., 5-9, 155), *Chris Mazzaferri (jr., 6-0, 170), Charlie Ballou (jr., 5-1, 150), Philip

Vilardo (sr., 5-10, 155) Linemen: *Jack Flowers (sr., 6-3, 255), *Joe Hendrix (sr., 5-10, 215), *Peter Mimnaugh (sr., 6-1, 250), *Brady Orlandini (sr., 5-11, 250), *John Pritchett (jr., 6-4, 215), Nickko Gerber (jr., 5-10, 200), Jack Hofman (sr., 5-10, 235), Jacob Pritchett (jr., 6-4, 225), Henry Rappolt (so., 6-10, 210), Riley Shimp (jr., 6-2, 215) Tight end: *Doug Ryan (jr., 6-4, 235), Colin Moore (sr., 60, 215) Defense Linemen: *Jake Badgeley (jr., 5-11, 210), *Dominic Chiavaroli (sr., 6-4, 215), *Reese Hurst (sr., 6-2, 225), Flowers, Hayden Kegg (jr., 6-1, 230), Cameron Koffel (sr., 6-1, 250), Jacob Pritchett Linebackers: *Michael Ballenger (sr., 6-0, 225), *Carter Brock (jr., 6-2, 210), *Marco Landolfi (sr., 5-11, 175), *Matt Weaver (sr., 5-10, 180), Nick Ferola (so., 5-11, 180), Asher Hamilton (jr., 6-1, 190), Kuyper Lashutka (jr., 6-1, 175), John Mollman (jr., 6-2, 175) Secondary: *Buttermore, *Adam Cipriano (sr., 6-1, 165), *Luke Frederick (jr., 6-1, 165), *Shea Keethler (sr., 5-10, 185), Mitchell Billman (sr., 6-2, 195), Cannon, Lashutka, Ned Neely (jr., 5-9, 150), Jack Purcell (jr., 5-9, 165) Special teams Kicker: *Zac Yoakam (jr., 5-8, 145) Punter: *Garrett Junk (sr., 6-2, 150) Returners: *Cannon, *Keethler Long snapper: *Charles Van Aman (jr., 6-1, 170) (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

23

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

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Dublin Jerome

Celtics set high goals for shortened season

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM As Dublin Jerome kicked off its abbreviated regular season, coach Bob Gecewich was counting on his four-year players to help the team reach its goals.

The Celtics are looking to defend their OCC-Cardinal Division title after going 6-1 last year for their first outright league championship. They shared league titles in 2008, 2015 and 2016.

Jerome opened Aug. 28 against Dublin Coffman and begins OCC-Cardinal play Friday, Sept. 4, at home against Thomas Worthington.

Following five league games, the Celtics will move on to the postseason. This year, because of the shortened season amid the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, every team is eligible to compete in the playoffs.

“Our four-year kids deserve that opportunity,” said Gecewich, who is in his sixth season. “They had the option of playing a six-game (regular) season and then go into the playoffs or getting a guaranteed 10 games. It doesn’t surprise me that they want to try their hands at the playoffs.

They’ve become accustomed to competing for a spot. It will be a little different this year, but they want that competition.”

The Celtics are coming off a season in which they reached a Division I, Region 2 semifinal. They defeated Springboro 38-31 in five overtimes in their playoff opener before losing to Springfield 37-14 to finish 9-3 overall.

It was the second regional semifinal appearance for Jerome. The first came in 2016, when the Celtics lost to Lorain 30-14.

Jerome lost 23 players to graduation, putting more onus on the program’s veterans to lead the way.

Key losses include Adam Booth, who led the Celtics in rushing with 1,001 yards and 13 touchdowns on 220 carries. He was named first-team all-league and second-team all-district.

Also gone are Joe Huber (OL/DL), Dominic Nardone (RB/LB) and Scott Sonnans-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ...........vs. Dublin Coffman *Sept. 4 ...vs. Thomas Worthington *Sept. 11 ..................at Marysville *Sept. 18 .......vs. Olentangy Berlin *Sept. 25 ..................at Olentangy *Oct. 2................vs. Hilliard Darby 2019 RESULTS (9-3 overall, 6-1 in OCC-Cardinal) Central Crossing...............W, 34-3 DeSales .........................W, 45-14 Dublin Coffman ...............L, 31-14 *Dublin Scioto ................W, 25-17 *Hilliard Darby..................W, 24-6 *Thomas Worthington.......W, 31-0 *Delaware.........................L, 28-7 *Hilliard Bradley .............W, 43-14

tine (DB), who were first-team all-district and all-league. Nardone had a team-best 107 tackles and was second-team allstate, while Huber was thirdteam all-state and Sonnanstine was special mention allstate.

The realigned OCC-Cardinal also includes Hilliard Darby, Marysville, Olentangy and Olentangy Berlin.

Gecewich believes Marysville and Olentangy are the teams to beat.

“We want to line up and play football,” he said. “It’s not that hard. High school football is not quantum physics – line up and play.”

OFFENSE

The Celtics’ spread offense again will be directed by senior quarterback Ryan Miller, who completed 127 of 224 passes for 1,428 with 18 touchdowns and 11 interceptions and rushed for 575 yards and 10 scores on 116 carries last season. He was named OCCCardinal Offensive Player of the Year and second-team alldistrict.

There was a competition in the preseason for the starting tailback spot between senior Nate Kirk, juniors Preston Everhart and Cole Welch and sophomores Caden Lockwood and Luke McLoughlin.

Jerome returns three key threats at receiver in seniors Carter Barco, Seth Martin and Sammy Stoner. A year ago, Stoner had 22 receptions for 411 yards and three touchdowns, Martin had 41 catches for 383 yards and two touchdowns and Barco had 24 receptions for 282 yards and

*Olentangy Berlin ...........W, 25-20 *Worthington Kilbourne.....W, 56-0 PLAYOFFS Springboro............W, 38-31 (5OT) Springfield ......................L, 37-14 *League contest INSIDE THE CELTICS •Coach: Bob Gecewich, sixth season •Top players: Carter Barco (WR/DB), Seth Martin (WR/DB), Sean McCarthy (OL/DL), Ryan Miller (QB/DB), Jack Soehner (LB) and Sammy Stoner (WR/DB) •Key losses: Nate Kovach, Dominic Nardone, Jacob Nally and Scott Sonnanstine

five scores.

The offensive line should feature seniors Noah Dorsey, Sean McCarthy and John Garrity.

“All the seniors have talked about it and we want to go to the playoffs,” McCarthy said.

“We want to push for that. The 10-game season would be fun, but we really want to give Jerome a chance to do something great.”

DEFENSE

The defense should be led by returning starters Stoner at defensive back and senior Jack Soehner at linebacker.

Other key linebackers should be seniors Will Ackert and Addi Blair.

Seniors K.J. Robinette and Luke Dufour and junior Princeton Doss also are competing for playing time at linebacker.

Along with Stoner, key defensive backs are juniors John Aziz, Salim Abdul Haqq, Isaiah King, Quinn McCrabb, Marcel Setiadi and Chase Tzagournis.

Starters on the line include senior Sop Aninweze and sophomore Kyler LaRosa.

McCarthy, juniors C.C. Ezirim and Hudson Schell and sophomores Derek Hole and Caden Lockwood also should contribute.

Senior receivers Carter Barco (left) and Seth Martin hope to have plenty to celebrate this season after the Celtics went 9-3 overall and 6-1 in the OCC-Cardinal Division last year.

SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

THE LINEUP

Senior Braden Havenstein will be the kicker and punter.

Key kickoff return specialists are Barco and senior Ian Dean, while Stoner will return punts.

McCarthy is the long snapper.

Offense Quarterback: *Ryan Miller (sr., 6-3, 200) Running backs: Preston Everhart (jr., 5-10, 165), Nate Kirk (sr., 5-11, 190), Caden Lockwood (so., 6-1, 210), Luke McLoughlin (so., 5-10, 155) Receivers: *Carter Barco (sr., 5-11, 170), *Seth Martin (sr., 6-0, 180), *Sammy Stoner (sr., 6-2, 190), David Adolph (jr., 6-4, 180), Jack Ballengee (sr., 6-1, 200), Ian Dean (sr., 5-11, 185), Jack Pinney (jr., 5-8, 140), Luke Pinney (jr., 57, 140), Danny Prochko (jr., 5-10, 165) Linemen: *Noah Dorsey (sr., 6-2, 255), *John Garrity

(sr., 6-3, 240), *Sean McCarthy (sr., 6-0, 220), Adam Bartlett (jr., 6-0, 240), Jacob Dominic (jr., 5-10, 225), Derek Hole (so., 5-10, 225), Anthony Kunar (jr., 5-8, 205), Dom Paesano (sr., 6-3, 185) Defense Linemen: *Sopulu Aninweze (sr., 6-5, 220), *Kyler LaRosa (so., 6-3, 260), C.C. Ezirim (jr., 6-5, 195), Hole, Andrew Hohenbrink (sr., 510, 185), Lockwood, McCarthy, Hudson Schell (jr., 6-1, 200) Linebackers: *Will Ackert (sr., 6-1, 185), *Addi Blair (sr., 5-8, 160), *Jack Soehner (sr., 5-11, 185), Princeton Doss (jr., 5-7, 170), Luke Dufour (sr., 6-0, 165), K.J. Robinette

(jr.), Antwaun Walter (jr., 62, 225) Defense Linemen: *McGraw, *Mosley, *Ryan VanBlarcume (jr., 6-2, 330), Ramella, Spencer, Johnathan Thompson (sr.), Jayden Williams (sr.,

6-3, 285) Linebackers: *Clarence Gossett (sr., 6-2, 215), *Jacob Johnston (jr., 5-9, 155), *Ryan Schieser (jr., 5-7, 170), Brayden Gautier (jr., 6-1, 210), Thompson Secondary: *Aekins, *Mike

Davis (sr., 5-8, 150), *Markell Holmes (jr., 5-10, 165), *Motton, *Delaney Wilburn (jr., 511, 180) Special teams Kicker: Jeffrey Asamoah (sr.), Foday Camara (sr.)

Punter: *Rathburn

SPECIAL TEAMS

(sr., 5-11, 190) Secondary: *Stoner, John Aziz (jr., 5-10, 175), Salim Abdul Haqq (jr., 5-9, 145), Isaiah King (jr., 5-10, 145), Quinn McCrabb (jr., 5-8, 150), Marcel Setiadi (jr., 5-11, 180), Chase Tzagournis (jr., 5-10, 150), Cole Welch (jr., 6-1, 165) Special teams Kicker: *Brayden Havenstein (sr., 6-0, 175) Punter: *Havenstein Returners: *Barco, *Dean, *Stoner, Everhart, King, Martin, Martin, Jack Pinney, Luke Pinney Long snapper: *McCarthy (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

GROVEPORT FROM >> 19

(sr., 5-10, 165), *John Motton (sr., 5-10, 190), Juwan Humphrey (sr., 5-9, 150), Avery Jordan (jr., 5-9, 155) Linemen: *Kyle Gossett (sr., 6-2, 300), *Jaxson Kelly (jr.,

5-11, 240), *Makarius Mosley (sr., 6-3, 250), *Angel Solis (sr., 6-0, 290), *Leland Slaven (sr.), Jordan Ramella (jr., 6-2, 290), Cameron Spencer (so., 6-2, 280) Tight end: *David Williams (sr., 6-5, 235), Rashid Seidu

Returners: *Aekins, *Underdown, Davis Long snapper: *Garrett Ottman (sr., 5-8, 190) (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

24

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

ThisWeekSPORTS.com | FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2020 Football Preview

Thomas Worthington

New coaching staff focuses on changing culture

By STEPHEN BORGNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Jacob Moeller was second-team all-district and first-team all-league after completing 147 of 268 passes for 2,051 yards with 15 touchdowns. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

Olentangy Berlin

Bears ready for next step

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

A year older and wiser and coming off its first postseason berth, Olentangy Berlin hopes to take more strides in its third season.

The Bears finished 6-5 overall last fall, losing to Whitehouse Anthony Wayne 44-36 in the first round of the Division II, Region 7 playoffs.

Berlin also earned its first league win and went on to tie Hilliard Darby for second (52) in the OCC-Cardinal Division behind Dublin Jerome (61).

All the success led to Mark Nori being named state and league co-Coach of the Year and district Coach of the Year.

“There were some games we walked into and we were steamrolled in that first year,” said Nori, who is in his third season. “When we took the field last season, some of those games we didn’t come in with the belief that we could win.

Sometimes it took a quarter or two or three before we figured out that we had the talent to win games. We just had to put it all together.

“Our kids learned how to come together and win and even what the rewards were.

They had a 6-4 record (in the regular season), they made the playoffs and they realized that it’s something that they could work toward.”

Senior quarterback Jacob Moeller has learned a lot since he stepped behind center two seasons ago. The 6-foot-4, 175pounder completed 147 of 268 passes for 2,051 yards with 15

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ........vs. Olentangy Liberty *Sept. 2 ....................at Olentangy *Sept. 11 ............vs. Hilliard Darby *Sept. 18 ...........at Dublin Jerome *Sept. 25.................vs. Marysville *Oct. 2 ......at Thomas Worthington 2019 RESULTS (6-5 overall, 5-2 OCC-Cardinal) Briggs..............................W, 51-0 Canal Winchester ............L, 24-21 Toledo St. John’s .............L, 42-19 *Delaware......................W, 32-21 *Worthington Kilbourne...W, 28-20 *Hilliard Darby................W, 16-12 *Hilliard Bradley ..............L, 21-19 *Dublin Scioto ................W, 32-29 *Dublin Jerome...............L, 25-20 *Thomas Worthington.....W, 36-13

touchdowns and nine interceptions last season. He also rushed for 160 yards and six touchdowns on 66 carries.

Against Anthony Wayne, he was 21-for-37 passing for 304 yards with four touchdowns and one interception.

“Now that we have seen a playoff game, we know what it feels like,” said Moeller, who was second-team all-district and first-team all-league.

“Everyone has come together.

We have several three-year starters, so everyone knows the plays and we have been ahead of the game.”

Cole Troyer has been in the trenches blocking for Moeller for two seasons. The 6-2, 290pounder said the 2020 seniors taught him what it takes to be a leader.

“In our first two years we had the same guys above us leading us through everything,” said Troyer, who was second-

PLAYOFFS Anthony Wayne ...............L, 44-36 *League contest INSIDE THE BEARS •Coach: Mark Nori, third season •Top players: Antonio Alonso (OL/DL), Andrew Cline (OL), Jon Harder (OL/DL), Bennett Lawrence (WR/LB), Ethan Lee (RB/LB), Liam McGreevey (WR/LB), Jacob Moeller (QB), Colin Pethtel (WR/DB) Justin Radar (WR/DB), Cole Troyer (OL/DL) and Bryce Young (OL/DL) •Key losses: Benant Bukari, Braden Cook, Noah Dursik, Marcus Elliott, Israel Foston, Corey Hill, Jake Hill, Jacob Lewis, Jack Nebraska, Aidan Pettograsso, Trevor Scott, Johnny Spinner, Jalen Weitzel and Brendon Wiehe

team all-league a year ago. “I learned a lot of things about leadership from them and this past offseason we really focused on leading a team through example. I have tried to make those strides and become a better leader.”

Junior wide receiver and linebacker Bennett Lawrence, a second-team all-league honoree, said the Bears have learned how to win.

“We were 1-9 that first season, and we couldn’t figure out a way to win,” he said. “Finally, last year, we figured out that you had to play all four quarters to win. No matter what the score is, you have to fight all four quarters.”

OFFENSE

The Bears’ multiple-scheme, spread attack returns eight starters, including Lawrence, Moeller and Troyer.

“We’ll do a two-back set or

sometimes have three or four wide receivers,” Nori said. “It’s a spread, but we have multiple looks.”

Senior Justin Rader is back at wide receiver after catching 19 passes for 265 yards and one touchdown.

Also returning on the line are senior Antonio Alonso (60, 265; honorable mention allleague) and juniors Jon Harder (6-5, 275) and Bryce Young (5-11, 265), with senior Andrew Cline (6-0, 290) stepping into a starting role.

Senior Ethan Lee (6-0, 200) returns at fullback, which has the duties that a tight end might handle in many offensive sets.

“We lost (2020 graduate) Noah (Dursik), but Andrew has been coming on for us and the offensive line is looking pretty good,” Troyer said. “We have some things we want to touch up on, but we are getting better.”

One change is the backup quarterback with junior Dylan Reyes being out for the season with a knee injury. Moeller will be backed up by senior Aiden Loeffler, a basketball player who is out for the team for the first time.

The junior backfield tandem of Gavin Angell and Nick Tiberio will take over for 2020 graduate Johnny Spinner, who rushed for 1,050 yards on 246 carries with nine touchdowns.

DEFENSE

Berlin again will line up in a 3-5-3 scheme and has six returning starters.

Junior Austin Burchinal (6-

BEARS >> 44

Thomas Worthington firstyear coach Mike Picetti knew he had his work cut out for him when he took the job at the end of December.

The Cardinals last had a winning season in 1999 when they finished 7-3 overall, and their next best record was 5-5 in 2009. Thomas went 11-19 overall and 6-15 in the OCCCardinal Division in three seasons under Picetti’s predecessor Matt Zingery.

To reverse the Cardinals’ fortunes, Picetti and his coaching staff have set out to change the culture in their first year at the helm.

There have been challenges amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, but the former Hilliard Bradley assistant – who served as defensive coordinator for the Jaguars from 2017-2019 – said he’s starting to see progress.

“They’ve bought in,” Picetti said. “It’s not a negative cut on anybody or anything, but they haven’t had a season over .500 here since 1999. And we’re trying to break that.

That’s our goal.”

The Cardinals, who finished 4-6 overall and 3-4 in the OCC-Cardinal Division last season behind champion Dublin Jerome (6-1), will try to do that with an offense led by senior quarterback Isaac Settles, a guard on the basketball team who took a year off from football last year before returning for his final season.

Some of the remaining lineup was in flux before an intra-squad scrimmage on Aug. 21, but players expected to be key contributors include senior running back Jayden Harris, senior Brandon Ross at tight end, a rotation of receivers including seniors Zach Horner and Abass Kamara and junior Camden Beatty.

Three-year starting senior Reese Dykstra returns at linebacker and will be a leader on a revamped defense.

“The culture’s completely different,” said senior Sam Carver, who will likely start up front on both offense and defense. “Our practices are insanely different from last year. We’re leaving every practice knowing we got better.

Our coaches push us to the extreme, and some days when we’re not on our best, they let us know.”

OFFENSE

Settles will replace graduate James Gaiters at quarter-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28..................vs. Newark *Sept. 4..........at Dublin Jerome *Sept. 11 .............vs. Olentangy *Sept. 18 ..............at Marysville *Sept. 25..........at Hilliard Darby *Oct. 2 .......vs. Olentangy Berlin 2019 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 3-4 OCC-Cardinal) Canal Winchester.........L, 35-17 Westerville North ........W, 24-14 Westerville South.........L, 35-21 *Worth. Kilbourne........W, 20-13 *Hilliard Bradley...........L, 43-10 *Dublin Jerome .............L, 31-0 *Hilliard Darby ...............L, 35-7 *Delaware ..................W, 17-10 *Dublin Scioto.............W, 30-27 *Olentangy Berlin ........L, 36-13 *League contest INSIDE THE CARDINALS •Coach: Mike Picetti, first season •Top players: Camden Beatty (DB/WR), Reese Dykstra (LB/LS), Jayden Harris (RB/DB), Jayvaun Lane (DB) and Isaac Settles (QB) •Key losses: James Gaiters and Sheron Phipps

back, and Picetti is excited about his decision to return.

“He took off last year, decided to focus on basketball for a year,” Picetti said. “He decided to come on back out, so I was pretty happy about that.”

“I’ve been extremely happy with the leadership he’s brought. Obviously coming back out as a senior and not being here his junior year, he had to get back into the football mindset and pick it up very quickly. He does a great job of commanding the huddle, getting kids set up, and is just an overall great leader.”

In addition to Settles, Picetti said junior Caleb Ortega also should see some action at quarterback Missing from last season is Sheron Phipps, who transferred to Dublin Coffman for his senior year after rushing for 535 yards and seven touchdowns and adding 175 yards receiving with two touchdowns.

The Cardinals will attempt to replace his output with senior running back Jayden Harris, and a receiver rotation that will include Beatty, Horner and Kamara along with Ross at tight end.

Carver and senior classmates Ethan Gerding and Jimmy Fenker are returning starters on the line for an offense that averaged 15.9 points last season.

“Weapons-wise, we have everyone you could imagine,” Carver said. “We have fast, deep threats. But at the same time, we have big bulky guys that can run through people.

CARDINALS >> 28

25

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

Monarchs ‘ready to roll’ in shortened season

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Coming off its first postseason appearance since 2013, Marysville is looking to build on that success this fall.

The Monarchs finished 65 with a 23-0 loss to Springfield in a Division I, Region 2 first-round playoff game.

It was Marysville’s first winning season since 2013, when it finished 7-4.

The Monarchs opened Aug. 28 against Hilliard Bradley and begin OCC-Cardinal Division play Friday, Sept. 4, at Hilliard Darby. The other teams in the realigned league are Dublin Jerome, Olentangy, Olentangy Berlin and Thomas Worthington.

“I can’t wait to get going.

I’m ready to roll,” said coach Brent Johnson, who is in his fourth season. “I just want a normal season. We want games. We’ve had a motto for the last three years: ‘Anybody, any time, anywhere’ and now we have to live it (with a sixgame regular season).”

Senior center Michael Cogossi said the abbreviated schedule is not a concern for the Monarchs as they try to top last year’s accomplishments.

“We try not to worry about it too much,” he said. “We have the mindset of full-speed ahead no matter what, and we just control the things that we

can control. That’s something we can’t really control right now, so we’re just doing everything normal like it usually is.”

A key returnee on defense is junior linebacker Gabe Powers, who has committed to Ohio State.

The Monarchs lost several key players to graduation, including defensive lineman Ian Johnson. He was OCCCentral Defensive Player of the Year last season along with first-team all-district and thirdteam all-state.

Marysville also lost running back Chase Kilgore, who led the team in rushing with 945 yards and 13 touchdowns on 169 carries. He was first-team all-league and second-team all-district.

“I like what I see,” coach Johnson said. “This is year four of our program and you can tell our kids are coming in with more knowledge of what we do and how we want to do it. We’re not fighting effort.

We (had) a really good camp.

We’re coaching a lot of details and specifics while we’re bringing our young kids along.

My young kids have come in and competed very hard.”

OFFENSE

The team’s base scheme remains the wing-T, but Johnson hopes to develop it into more of a multiple-formation offense.

“We want to find more bal-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28............vs. Hilliard Bradley *Sept. 4 ...............at Hilliard Darby *Sept. 11 ..........vs. Dublin Jerome *Sept. 18..........vs. Thomas Worth. *Sept. 25.........at Olentangy Berlin *Oct. 2.....................vs. Olentangy 2019 RESULTS (6-5 overall, 2-3 OCC-Central) Northland.........................W, 49-0 Delaware .......................W, 35-14 Findlay..............................L, 21-7 Grove City ........................W, 37-3 Big Walnut .....................W, 38-10 *Dublin Coffman................L, 28-9 *Westland ......................W, 36-14 *Upper Arlington................L, 10-6 *Hilliard Davidson............L, 23-14

ance offensively,” he said. “We have continued to work on the play-action pass.”

Senior Ashton Schmutz and junior Ethan Musel competed in the preseason for the starting quarterback position.

“We’re really excited just because of all the work we’ve put in,” Schmutz said.

“Even if it’s a shortened season, we’re excited to come out here and play our senior season with all our other fellow classmates. We’re ready to do big things.”

Senior fullback Ryan Kern rushed for 750 yards and nine touchdowns on 117 carries last season. He’ll be joined in the backfield by Powers and senior Logan McSwords.

The key receivers are seniors Logan Hall and Logan

*Central Crossing .............W, 35-0 PLAYOFFS Springfield ........................L, 23-0 *League contest INSIDE THE MONARCHS •Coach: Brent Johnson, fourth season •Top players: Michael Cogossi (OL), Logan Hall (WR/DB), Luke Harper (OL/LB), Lincoln Heard (OL/LB), Ryan Kern (FB/LB), Colby Kerns (OL/DL), Nick Kessler (TE/DL), Zach McMinn (DL), Gabe Powers (RB/LB) and Ashton Schmutz (QB/DB) •Key losses: Matt Belt, Colby Goodwin, Chase Kilgore, Ian Johnson, Skylar Lawson, Brody Lewis, Nathan Morey and Jayden Simmons

Neer and junior Cameron Jones, and senior Nick Kessler returns at tight end.

The offensive line features experience and will be anchored by Cogossi, who was special mention all-league last season. Other key linemen are seniors Dominic Gaetano (G) and Colby Kerns (T) and junior tackles Gavin Rohrs and Jack Blumberg.

DEFENSE

The 4-3 base defense will need another productive season from Powers, who led the Monarchs with 97 tackles last season and was second-team all-district and all-league.

Senior Aidan Lambert is another key linebacker.

“Our motto is ‘control what we can control,’ ” Lambert

COUGARS

DEFENSE

Senior linebacker Jakob Hurley is expected to anchor the Cougars’ multiple-30 scheme.

“Our goal is to win as many games as possible,” he said. “With the talent level that we have, we should be able to win a lot of games this year.”

Senior Ibrahim Kamara will split time at defensive end and outside linebacker.

Senior Brendan Wiseman and juniors David Chambers and Makiah Crawford are other key linebackers.

The line will include Bogle, Hughes and Love splitting time at nose tackle, and junior Noah Reynolds also will see time up front.

The secondary will feature Smith at cornerback, with Little, Matia, Slaughter, Westmoreland, senior Zurion Ivory and junior Gabe Chico-Maldonado also contributing.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Hall will serve as the kicker and punter, with Tanner Powers at long snapper.

Key return threats are seniors Clark Hamilton and Paolo Pena and junior Tanner Powers.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Ethan Musel (jr., 5-9, 160), Ashton Schmutz (sr., 6-0, 165) Running backs: *Ryan Kern (sr., 5-11, 205), Griffin Johnson (so., 5-10, 175), Logan

McSwords (sr., 6-1 160), Gabe Powers (jr., 6-4, 220), Tanner Powers (jr., 6-1, 155) Receivers: *Logan Hall (sr., 5-10, 170), *Cameron Jones (jr., 6-3, 175), *Logan Neer (sr., 5-10, 155) Tight end: *Nick Kessler (sr., 6-5, 205) Linemen: *Michael Cogossi (sr., 5-11, 250), *Dominic Gaetano (sr., 5-10, 210), *Colby Kerns (sr., 6-1, 230), *Gavin Rohrs (jr., 6-3, 290), Jacob Anliker (sr., 5-10, 170), Jack Blumberg (jr., 6-2, 240), Caleb Dilsaver (sr., 5-7, 175) Defense Linemen: Linem en: *Zach McMinn (sr., 6-3, 255), *Erryl Will (jr., 5-8, 160), Benjamin Bickerstaff (jr., 5-9, 180), Richard Nielsen (jr., 6-2, 165) Linebackers: *Lincoln Heard (sr., 5-6, 160), *Aidan Lambert (sr., 5-10, 185), *Gabe Powers, Luke Harper (sr., 5-10, 185), Colton Powers (so., 5-9, 185) Secondary: *Hall, *Schmutz, Johnson, Jones, Musel Special teams Kicker: *Hall Punter: *Hall Returners: Clark Hamilton (sr., 5-11, 160), Paolo Pena (sr., 5-5, 135), Tanner Powers Long snapper: *Tanner Powers (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

ADJUST

FROM >> 7

land also contributing.

Rios believes the receiving group is a strength of the team. Returning are juniors Mason Bailey, Jack Little, Janell Matia and Jayson Slaughter and sophomore Zane Gibbs-Aguon.

Westland has experience on the line, led by senior returnees Payton Hayes and Rahkim Foster at tackle, Colton Bogle at guard and Hughes at center.

Juniors Darius Love Jr. and Jacob Mullens also should contribute.

said. “We’re getting better out here on the field and grinding every day. Other teams (weren’t) as fortunate to be able to do that, so we were thankful just to be able to get out, get some work in and do the best we can be for the season.”

Other returning linebackers are seniors Luke Harper and Lincoln Heard.

The line features several returnees: senior Zach McMinn at tackle, junior Erryl Will at nose guard and juniors Benjamin Bickerstaff and Richard Nielsen at end.

The secondary includes returning starters in Schmutz at safety and Hall at cornerback.

“We need to be very sound defensively,” Johnson said.

“We continue to do that.”

FROM >> 5

ing the playoffs is like glorified scrimmages. There’s zero relevance other than league championships.”

Moving forward

Junior Jack Little will be a two-way starter at wide receiver and defensive back.

SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jovaan Cooper (jr., 6-0, 195), Marvic Martinez (so., 5-9, 160) backs: ks: *Tim Smith (jr., 5Runniing bac Runn 8, 150), Antonio Martinez (sr., 5-10, 170), Semaje Westmoreland (so., 5-11, 175) Receivers: *Mason Bailey (jr., 5-11, 155), *Zane Gibbs-Aguon (so., 5-8, 160), *Jack Little (jr., 5-11, 165), Jenell Matia (jr., 5-11, 165), Jayson Slaughter (jr., 5-10, 160) Linemen: *Colton Bogle (sr., 6-0, 265), *Payton Hayes (sr., 6-0, 255), *Hayden Hughes (sr., 6-4, 305), *Jacob Mullens (jr., 6-2, 330), Rahkim Foster (sr., 6-0, 235), Darius Love Jr. (jr., 6-1, 315) Defense Linemen: Bogle, Hughes, Ibrahim

Kamara (sr., 5-11, 195), Love, Noah Reynolds (jr., 6-2, 220) Linebackers: *Jakob Hurley (jr., 59, 175), *Kamara, *Brendan Wiseman (so., 5-10, 180), David Chambers (jr., 5-8, 175), Makiah Crawford (jr., 6-0, 215) Secondary: *Little, *Gabe ChicoMaldonado (jr., 5-11, 170), *Slaughter, *Smith, Zurion Ivory (sr., 6-0, 170), Matia, Westmoreland Special teams Kicker: *Kyler Buckner (sr., 5-10, 170) Punter: *Buckner Returners: Gibbs-Aguon, Martinez, Smith, Westmoreland Long snapper: *Wiseman (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

Being serious about necessary precautions was something Liberty coach Steve Hale knows didn’t come easy for his team.

The bigger difficulty, though, has been in creating camaraderie when becoming a tight-knit unit has never been more challenging because of social distancing.

“We really (didn’t change) a single thing in our summer schedule,” Hale said. “We came in from (8 to 10 a.m.) Monday, Wednesday and Thursday like we always do. We never came into the building and we’ve still never been in the building. We film a lot of practice and (had) virtual meetings with the guys in the afternoon at home (during the summer). They seem like they’re in a much better mood and seem a lot fresher. The social distancing is the hardest thing because we’re putting in rules they’re not used to and we’ve got to be reminded of it all the time.

Other than that it’s felt pretty normal.”

Teams were allowed to have

one scrimmage beginning Aug. 21 after the state removed that restriction Aug. 18.

On Aug. 15, DeSales held an intersquad scrimmage to simulate a potential game night.

“We’ve handled it well,” coach Ryan Wiggins said. “To be able to have equipment and play … felt good. I said to one of the referees, ‘It’s just good to see football,’ and they’re like, ‘Yeah, absolutely.’ To get ready for the intensity of a Friday night is difficult, but we’re all in the same boat.”

For Pickerington Central senior Lorenzo Styles Jr., a Notre Dame commit who plays wide receiver and in the defensive backfield, just getting a final prep opportunity is worth savoring.

He was a key player last fall when the Tigers won their second state title in three seasons.

“It’s all about precautions,” Styles said. “I feel like they’ve been giving us different protocols to follow and we’ve been following them. As a team, we’re still building chemistry and we have to really work together if we really want to have a season.

We’re a hungry team. Our guys love playing football here at Pickerington Central.” julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

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Marysville

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26

OCC-C ARDINAL D IVISION

Hilliard Darby

Panthers excited for chance to play

By STEPHEN BORGNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Hilliard Darby coach John Santagata knows his team is coming off a seven-win season in which it finished second in the OCC-Cardinal Division, and that just missing the playoffs provided plenty of motivation in the offseason.

The first thing on his mind now, however, is how fortunate he feels that the Panthers have an opportunity to play this year at all, considering the backdrop of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

“I think we’re just excited to play football at this point,” said Santagata, whose team opened Aug. 27 against visiting Hilliard Davidson. “I think we’re excited for our seniors that they’re actually going to get to play football.

And everything else past that is a bonus, to be honest with you.”

He said practices were more productive following Gov. Mike DeWine’s announcement on Aug. 18 that fall sports were given the go-ahead to continue, albeit with restrictions.

“We’re thrilled to be playing, and we’re being as safe as possible,” Santagata said.

“Obviously safety is our first concern, but the kids are excited to finally have a green light from the governor that we’re going to be playing. And there seems to be a little more energy in practice now that we know that we can actually play opponents.”

“Since Governor DeWine came out and said we’re fullgo, our mindsets have changed for a little bit just because we know 100 percent that we’re having a season now,” said senior Connor Jones, who plays running back and also starts at inside linebacker. .

Jones was a major contributor last season when Darby won its last four games to finish 7-3 overall and 5-2 in the OCC-Cardinal, finishing second behind Dublin Jerome (61).

Darby was ninth (18.996 points) in the Division I, Region 3 computer ratings, just behind final playoff qualifier Westerville Central (19.85).

But while Santagata is happy the Panthers will get a chance to build on last year’s success and will be in the playoffs after the abbreviated six-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 27 .........vs. Hilliard Davidson *Sept. 4...................vs. Marysville *Sept. 1.......... at Olentangy Berlin *Sept. 18 .................vs. Olentangy *Sept. 25..........vs. Thomas Worth. *Oct. 2 ...............at Dublin Jerome 2019 RESULTS (7-3 overall, 5-2 OCC-Cardinal) Olentangy ......................W, 23-13 Hilliard Davidson .............L, 30-14 Lancaster.........................W, 21-7 *Hilliard Bradley ...............W, 13-7 *Dublin Jerome.................L, 24-6 *Olentangy Berlin ............L, 16-12 *Thomas Worthington.......W, 35-7 *Worthington Kilbourne.....W, 38-0

Logan Braddock, with junior Luke Cline and sophomore Kasey Garrett also expected to see action.

DEFENSE

Senior Eric Williams returns at wide receiver for the Panthers, who will play Friday, Sept. 4, as host to Marysville. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

game regular-season schedule, he understands the limitations teams throughout central Ohio are facing.

“We have to sort of develop an identity quickly,” he said.

“Because all those things you tend to do as a team in the preseason weren’t permitted. So you’re sort of still learning about each other – even though they know each other – but from a strictly Darby football standpoint, we have to figure ourselves out very quickly.”

OFFENSE

Santagata said junior Blake Horvath brings a good understanding of Darby’s tripleoption offense into his first season as the starter at quarterback.

“He’s been running it for several years at j.v. and working his way up,” Santagata said. “One of the things you look for in a quarterback is leadership, and I really like what I’m seeing from him as far as leadership.”

“But then he’s athletic as well, so hopefully those three things come together and we can do some things.”

“His potential is extremely high,” senior left guard Jacob Neri said. “He’s a great quarterback, he reads the defense well, he has a great arm, and he can make plays on his feet and in the air. I have great faith in him to lead our offense.”

Jones said Horvath’s arm will be an asset for the Panthers, who averaged 22.1 points last fall, as they try to keep defenses guessing.

“Most teams are going to be looking at us to run up the middle and everything. We’ll get them on their toes coming up the middle, and then we’ll just throw the quick slant to them,” he said.

Jones was the OCC-Cardinal Defensive Player of the Year at linebacker, but he also led the Panthers in rushing with 806 yards and 13 touchdowns on 130 carries.

The main targets for Horvath will be senior Eric Williams and juniors Jacob Baird and Matt Sech at receiver, junior Nate Burdick at slotback and seniors John Scholl and Colin Bodak at tight end.

Joining Neri up front are senior Andrew Williams, juniors Hayden Gladden and Brady Smith and sophomore

Darby’s 4-3 defense will be experienced on the line with the return of seniors Sam Donnelly and Kole Kendall at tackle and Blayne Barnes and Bradley Weaver at end.

Weaver was a second-team all-league selection.

Junior Luke Manche and sophomore Ben Marsh are expected to join Jones at linebacker.

Jones recorded 95 tackles and four interceptions, and returned three of his interceptions for touchdowns a year ago.

Rounding out the defense in the secondary are seniors Sam Buoni (cornerback) and Braeden Fichtner (strong safety) and junior Cade Mills (free safety) and Eric Williams (cornerback).

“We have a lot of sound and disciplined defensive players,” Jones said. “I think we’ll have a great year on defense.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Jones will handle the punting again after averaging 32.5 yards per kick, and he placed eight of his 25 punts inside the 20-yard line.

Junior Danny Gajda and sophomore Josh Digioia are the kickers.

“Danny was our kicker last year but got injured and Josh came in and did a nice job,” Santagata said. “Right now they’re both competing for that spot.”

Junior Nate Burdick, sophomore Beau Bridges, Eric Williams and Mills are the projected returners, with soph-

*Delaware........................W, 24-6 *Dublin Scioto ..................W, 35-7 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS • Coach: John Santagata, 13th season • Top players: Top players: Jake Baird (WR/DB),Blayne Barnes (TE/DL), Sam Donnelly (OL/DL), James Hakes (RB/LB), Blake Horvath (QB/DB), Connor Jones (RB/LB), Kole Kendall (OL/DL), Luke Manche (RB/LB), Ben Marsh (RB/LB), Bradley Weaver (TE/DL) and Eric Williams (WR/DB) • Key losses: Creed Galko, Evan Grose, Scott Hartline, Ryan Morbitzer Jack Stultz and Zach Vent

omore Nick Brown at long snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Blake Horvath (jr., 6-1, 175) Running backs: *Connor Jones (jr., 6-2, 230), Nate Burdick (jr., 5-9, 160), Beau Bridges (so., 5-8, 160), Damien Garay (sr., 5-8, 155), James Hakes (jr., 5-8, 190), Javi Quimba (so., 5-9, 160) Receivers: Jacob Baird (jr., 6-0, 170), Matt Sech (jr., 6-1, 165), Eric Williams (sr., 6-0, 175) Linemen: *Logan Braddock (so., 5-10, 230), *Hayden Gladden (jr., 6-4, 250), *Jacob Neri (sr., 6-2, 270), *Brady Smith (jr., 6-1, 230), *Andrew Williams (sr., 6-2, 220), Kasey Garrett (so., 6-0, 200), Luke Cline (jr., 6-0, 250) Tight ends: Colin Bodak (sr., 6-0, 195), John Scholl (sr., 5-10, 190) Defense Linemen: *Blayne Barnes (sr., 6-3, 235), *Sam Donnelly (sr., 5-10, 205), *Kole Kendall (sr., 5-10, 210), *Bradley Weaver (sr., 6-4, 240) Linebackers: *Jones, Ben Marsh (so., 6-3, 210), Luke Manche (jr., 5-10, 210) Secondary: Sam Buoni (sr., 5-6, 150), Braeden Fichtner (sr., 5-9, 180), Cade Mills (jr., 5-9, 140), Eric Williams Special teams Kickers: Josh Digioia (so., 5-6, 150), Danny Gajda (jr., 5-11, 170) Punter: Jones Returners: Bridges, Burdick, Mills, Eric Williams Long snapper: Nick Brown (so., 6-1, 175) (*Denotes projected starter) sborgna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekSteve

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27

OCC-C ENTRAL D IVISION

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Olentangy

Veteran cast to carry load for Braves

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Once the initial setback of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic subsided for athletic activities, Olentangy was able to progress through its three phases in short order and began preseason practice as usual Aug. 1, with the proper health precautions and social distancing.

Other than not scrimmaging other teams, the Braves proceeded through two-a-days as in normal years. Still, senior wide receiver/linebacker Jace Middleton felt like he and his teammates were behind to some extent, a hunger they hope to translate into another deep postseason run.

“It’s been a little chaotic.

We lost a few camp days and a few practice days,” said Middleton, an Ohio State baseball commit. “As a team we’re a little behind on things, but our seniors are really picking it up. Guys are getting on track and knowing their stuff.

“It’s been day-to-day. Once we get to gametime, then we’ll go week-to-week. We’re lucky to be here and doing everything we’ve been able to do.”

Middleton was a key figure last year as Olentangy overcame a 5-5 regular season to advance to the Division II, Region 7 final, losing to Toledo Central Catholic 35-14. He is one of nine starters to return on offense as well as one of the nine back on defense for the Braves, who opened Aug. 28 at Olentangy Orange.

“I love what we’re seeing: All five offensive linemen returning and a new (quarterback, senior Kaden Doup) who’s balling out,” senior running back Landon Johnson said. “We have options. Once Kaden gets comfortable in the pocket, he has the potential to take a defense apart and then we can really work well.

“Each individual, we know we have to push ourselves and each other to succeed.”

Olentangy begins OCC-

Cardinal Division play Friday, Sept. 4, at home against Olentangy Berlin.

The Braves have 49 total players in grades 10-12 and 74 in the program, a lingering side effect of the split two years ago when Berlin opened.

“It’s still a numbers game,” eighth-year coach Mark Solis said. “We have a lot of darn good football players. They’ve played in a lot of high-level football games. They’re seasoned veterans. They’ve been there and know what it takes to get there.”

OFFENSE

Doup succeeds 2020 graduate Trent Maddox, who was 237-for-370 passing for 2,797 yards with 28 touchdowns and 13 interceptions and rushed for 379 yards and four touchdowns on 96 carries last year, and should have plenty of help acclimating.

Johnson returns after rushing for 466 yards and five touchdowns on 85 carries.

Middleton caught 57 passes for 856 yards and seven touchdowns, senior Caleb Gossett had 45 catches for 546 yards and six scores and classmate Daniel Kelly added 318 yards and three touchdowns on 32 catches.

Senior center Toby Wilson anchors a veteran line that also includes guards Anthony DiMarzo and Drew Matlak and tackles T.J. Gadd and Ethan Wise. All are seniors except Matlak, who is a junior.

“In terms of scheme, everybody knows what they are doing so we’re really clicking,” said Wilson, who received several Football Bowl Subdivision offers in the offseason. “There’s no confusion. When there’s no confusion, we can get off the ball even harder.”

Also returning are two senior tight ends in Ethan Hand and Nathan Rudawsky.

According to Solis, all of that means Olentangy will lean more on the run than in the past few seasons.

Olentangy’s Landon Johnson (left) and Jace Middleton are be two-way starters. Johnson will be at running back on offense, and Middleton will be at receiver. Both also will start at linebacker. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

“That’s not a surprise to anybody who knows us or what we have coming back,” Solis said. “(Doup) is a threat with his feet running the ball.

He’s doing some good things.

He recognizes his mistakes and works quickly to correct them. …

“We’ll find different ways to get the ball in the hands of our playmakers.”

DEFENSE

Olentangy hopes to benefit from a plethora of two-way players, including senior Jason Feasel, Gadd, Hand and Rudawsky on the defensive line, Johnson, Middleton and senior Brady Ramsey at linebacker and Gossett and Kelly in the secondary.

Hand had a team-high four sacks. Gossett made four interceptions at safety and Middleton, who has moved from safety to outside linebacker, added three.

Gossett said he is eager to be an impact player on both sides of the ball.

“I’m not planning on leaving the field,” he said, mentioning potential duties on special teams. “I thought I could have contributed more last year but this year, I want to capitalize on my opportunities more.”

Middleton embraced his move to the position he played growing up.

“Outside backer just feels like home,” he said. “I feel

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28.........at Olentangy Orange *Sept. 4 .........vs. Olentangy Berlin *Sept. 11 ..at Thomas Worthington *Sept. 18 .............at Hilliard Darby *Sept. 25 ..........vs. Dublin Jerome *Oct. 2......................at Marysville 2019 RESULTS (7-6 overall, 2-3 OCC-Buckeye) Hilliard Darby ..................L, 23-13 Miamisburg .....................W, 37-6 Holland Springfield .........W, 35-14 Dublin Coffman ...............L, 38-16 New Albany....................W, 38-35 *Westerville South..........W, 23-20 *Olentangy Orange..........L, 28-14 *Olentangy Liberty...........L, 24-21 *Westerville North ..........W, 44-14 *Westerville Central...........L, 41-7

comfortable with my mechanics. I feel like I’m a football player there.”

Other top contributors are expected to include senior cornerback Jordan Wilkerson and junior linebacker Michael Parsio.

Ramsey started early last year before suffering a broken leg in a Week 3 win over Holland Springfield.

“We have more depth on that side of the ball. We’ve changed the scheme up a little bit, we’ve simplified some things especially when it comes to coverages,” Solis said. “There’s something to be said for experience. We have to stay healthy, though.

The healthier we are, the better the chance for our success.”

PLAYOFFS Troy ...............................W, 42-10 Whitehouse Anthony Wayne .....................................W, 31-21 Toledo Central Catholic....L, 35-14 *League contest INSIDE THE BRAVES •Coach: Mark Solis, eighth season •Top players: Kaden Doup (QB), Jason Feasel (OL/DL), T.J. Gadd (OL/DL), Caleb Gossett (WR/DB), Ethan Hand (TE/DL), Landon Johnson (RB/LB), Daniel Kelly (WR/DB), Jace Middleton (WR/LB) and Toby Wilson (OL) •Key losses: Nick Boyarko, Jake Coleman, Mitchell Grubb and Trent Maddox

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Hayden Olcott returns for his second year as the starting kicker. He was 31-for-33 on extra-point attempts and 4-for-7 on fieldgoal tries last season and also will be the regular punter.

Olcott had one punt for 26 yards as a sophomore.

Wilson is back at long snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Kaden Doup (sr., 6-0, 170), Brady Beaumont (so. 6-1, 175) Running backs: *Landon Johnson (sr., 5-11, 210), *Malik Wade (jr., 5-9, 175), Mike Parsio (jr., 5-10, 180), Evan Rindlaub (so., 6-0, 180),

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Jordan Wilkerson (sr., 5-10, 170) Receivers: *Caleb Gossett (sr., 6-2, 185), *Daniel Kelly (sr., 5-10, 175), *Jace Middleton (sr., 6-5, 225), Dubby Agudosi (jr., 6-1, 180), Bryce Bendick (jr., 5-10, 185), Ryan Petrone (jr., 5-8, 170) Linemen: *Anthony DiMarzo (sr., 5-10, 240), *Jason Feasel (sr., 5-10, 240), *T.J. Gadd (sr., 6-3, 260), *Toby Wilson (sr., 6-2, 275), *Ethan Wise (sr., 6-2, 250), Drew Matlak (jr., 6-2, 250) Tight end: *Ethan Hand (sr., 6-0, 240), Angelo McCullom (fr., 6-2, 240), Nathan Rudawsky (sr., 6-2, 230) Defense Linemen: *Feasel, *Hand, *Rudawsky, Gadd, McCullom Linebackers: *Johnson, *Middleton, *Parsio, *Brady Ramsey (sr., 6-0, 200), Bendick Secondary: *Agudosi, *Gossett, *Kelly, *Wilkerson, Landon McElroy (sr., 510, 175), Rindlaub, Garret Zeune (sr., 5-10, 180) Special teams Kicker: *Hayden Olcott (jr., 5-10, 170), Gabe Bryant (jr., 5-9, 170) Punter: *Olcott Returners: Gossett, Kelly, Returners Rindlaub Long snapper: *Wilson (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

ThisWeekSPORTS.com | FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2020 Football Preview

28

C OMPOSITE S CHEDULE

WEEK 1

Aug. 27 Area non-league Hilliard Davidson at Hilliard Darby Aug. 28 Central Catholic League DeSales at Watterson Ohio Capital Conference Delaware at Big Walnut; Westerville South at Dublin Scioto; Franklin Heights at Westerville North; Worthington Kilbourne at Canal Winchester Mid-State League Liberty Union at Ready; Columbus Academy at Whitehall; Buckeye Valley at Harvest Prep; AmandaClearcreek at Fairfield Union; Hamilton Township at Bloom-Carroll; Teays Valley at Logan Elm; Worthington Christian at Grove City Christian; Zanesville Rosecrans at Corning Miller; Fisher Catholic at Berne Union Licking County League Utica at Heath; Newark Catholic at Johnstown; Northridge at Lakewood; Zanesville at Licking Heights; Watkins Memorial at Licking Valley Area non-league Gahanna at Reynoldsburg; Grove City at Central Crossing; Lancaster at New Albany; Westerville Central at Upper Arlington; Westland at Groveport; Dublin Coffman at Dublin Jerome; Hilliard Bradley at Marysville; Olentangy at Olentangy Orange; Olentangy Liberty at Olentangy Berlin; Newark at Thomas Worthington; Granville at Waverly; Cincinnati Moeller at Hartley Aug. 30 Area non-league Pickerington North at Pickerington Central

WEEK 2

Sept. 3 Ohio Capital Conference Dublin Scioto at Worthington Kilbourne Sept. 4 Central Catholic League Watterson at Hartley Ohio Capital Conference Grove City at New Albany; Pickerington North at Westerville Central; Gahanna at Westland; Dublin Coffman at Olentangy Liberty; Hilliard Davidson at Olentangy Orange; Upper Arlington at Hilliard Bradley; Lancaster at Central Crossing; Reynoldsburg at Groveport; Pickerington Central at Newark; Marysville at Hilliard Darby; Thomas Worthington at Dublin

Jerome; Olentangy Berlin at Olentangy; Canal Winchester at Franklin Heights; Westerville North at Delaware; Big Walnut at Westerville South

Area non-league Watterson at Teays Valley

Mid-State League Bexley at Liberty Union; Whitehall at Grandview; Harvest Prep at Columbus Academy; Ready at Buckeye Valley; Bloom-Carroll at Circleville; Logan Elm at Hamilton Township; Fairfield Union at Teays Valley; Corning Miller at Worthington Christian; Grove City Christian at Fisher Catholic; Fairfield Christian at Berne Union

Sept. 17 Mid-State League Bexley at Columbus Academy

Licking County League Granville at Zanesville; Heath at Northridge; Johnstown at Utica; Licking Heights at Watkins Memorial Area non-league DeSales at Mansfield Senior Sept. 5 Licking County League Lakewood at Newark Catholic

WEEK 3

Sept. 10 Mid-State League Fisher Catholic at Worthington Christian Sept. 11 Central Catholic League Hartley at DeSales Ohio Capital Conference New Albany at Gahanna; Westland at Pickerington North; Westerville Central at Grove City; Olentangy Liberty at Upper Arlington; Hilliard Bradley at Hilliard Davidson; Olentangy Orange at Dublin Coffman; Central Crossing at Pickerington Central; Newark at Reynoldsburg; Groveport at Lancaster; Hilliard Darby at Olentangy Berlin; Olentangy at Thomas Worthington; Dublin Jerome at Marysville; Delaware at Worthington Kilbourne; Westerville South at Westerville North; Dublin Scioto at Canal Winchester; Big Walnut at Franklin Heights Mid-State League Liberty Union at Whitehall; Harvest Prep at Grandview; Columbus Academy at Ready; Buckeye Valley at Bexley; Amanda-Clearcreek at Bloom-Carroll; Logan Elm at Circleville; Hamilton Township at Fairfield Union; Grove City Christian at Fairfield Christian; Berne Union at Zanesville Rosecrans Licking County League Granville at Licking Valley; Newark Catholic at Heath; Lakewood at Johnstown; Northridge at Utica; Zanesville at Watkins Memorial

tangy Berlin; Dublin Jerome at Olentangy; Canal Winchester at Westerville South; Franklin Heights at Worthington Kilbourne; Dublin Scioto at Delaware; Big Walnut at Westerville North

WEEK 4

Sept. 18 Central Catholic League Watterson at DeSales; Hartley vs. St. Charles Ohio Capital Conference Westland at New Albany; Gahanna at Westerville Central; Pickerington North at Grove City; Hilliard Bradley at Olentangy Liberty; Upper Arlington at Olentangy Orange; Hilliard Davidson at Dublin Coffman; Central Crossing at Newark; Pickerington Central at Groveport; Reynoldsburg at Lancaster; Olentangy at Hilliard Darby; Olentangy Berlin at Dublin Jerome; Thomas Worthington at Marysville; Westerville North at Canal Winchester; Franklin Heights at Dublin Scioto; Worthington Kilbourne at Big Walnut; Westerville South at Delaware Mid-State League Grandview at Liberty Union; Bexley at Columbus Academy; Ready at Harvest Prep; Whitehall at Buckeye Valley; Circleville at Amanda-Clearcreek; Teays Valley at Hamilton Township; Fairfield Union at Logan Elm; Fairfield Union at Fisher Catholic; Berne Union at Corning Miller; Zanesville Rosecrans at Grove City Christian Licking County League Watkins Memorial at Granville; Heath at Johnstown; Utica at Lakewood; Licking Valley at Licking Heights Sept. 19 Licking County League Northridge at Newark Catholic

WEEK 5

Sept. 24 Mid-State League Whitehall at Ready

Sept. 25 Central Catholic League St. Charles at DeSales; Hartley at Watterson Ohio Capital Conference Pickerington North at New Albany; Grove City at Gahanna; Westerville Central at Westland; Hilliard Davidson at Olentangy Liberty; Dublin Coffman at Upper Arlington; Olentangy Orange at Hilliard Bradley; Reynoldsburg at Central Crossing; Lancaster at Pickerington Central; Groveport at Newark; Thomas Worthington at Hilliard Darby; Marysville at Olen-

Mid-State League Liberty Union at Columbus Academy; Grandview at Buckeye Valley; Bexley at Harvest Prep; AmandaClearcreek at Hamilton Township; Circleville at Teays Valley; Bloom-Carroll at Fairfield Union; Fairfield Christian at Worthington Christian; Fisher Catholic at Zanesville Rosecrans; Corning Miller at Grove City Christian; Area non-league Johnstown at Granville; Heath at Zanesville; Licking Valley at Lakewood; Newark Catholic at Licking Heights; Northridge at Shenandoah; Watkins Memorial at Utica

WEEK 6

Oct. 1 Ohio Capital Conference Pickerington Central at Reynoldsburg Oct. 2 Central Catholic League St. Charles vs. Watterson; DeSales at Hartley Ohio Capital Conference New Albany at Westerville Central; Westland at Grove City; Gahanna at Pickerington North; Olentangy Liberty at Olentangy Orange; Hilliard Bradley at Dublin Coffman; Upper Arlington at Hilliard Davidson; Central Crossing at Groveport; Newark at Lancaster; Hilliard Darby at Dublin Jerome; Olentangy at Marysville; Olentangy Berlin at Thomas Worthington; Big Walnut at Dublin Scioto; Delaware at Canal Winchester; Westerville North at Worthington Kilbourne; Westerville South at Franklin Heights Mid-State League Buckeye Valley at Liberty Union; Columbus Academy at Grandview; Harvest Prep at Whitehall; Ready at Bexley; Teays Valley at Amanda-Clearcreek; Hamilton Township at Circleville; Logan Elm at Bloom-Carroll; Worthington Christian at Berne Union; Zanesville Rosecrans at Fairfield Christian; Corning Miller at Fisher Catholic Licking County League Licking Heights at Granville; Lakewood at Heath; Johnstown at Northridge; Licking Heights at Granville; Licking Valley at Zanesville; Utica at Newark Catholic Area non-league Logan at Watkins Memorial

CARDINALS

FROM >> 24

Offensively, we’re looking to be the best in the conference this year. We have a pretty explosive offense.”

“Our skill positions are fast and athletic,” Gerding said.

“As long as we do our jobs, they’ll handle it for us. We give them time, makes life easier for us.”

DEFENSE

Dykstra returns at linebacker after starting the past two seasons. He was first-team allleague after leading the Cardinals with 77 tackles, and he is expected to be a leader in Picetti’s hybrid 4-3 defense.

Sophomore Anthony Brewu and junior Bernard Oteng Jr. should join Dykstra at linebacker, with Carver, Gerding, Ross and senior Michael Skidmore on the defensive line.

Beatty, a second-team allleague selection, will be at cornerback, with Harris and senior Cole McDermott rotating at the other cornerback spot.

The safeties will be senior Jayvaun Lane and junior Josh Rock.

A year after Thomas allowed an average of just under 28 points per game, Picetti said the Cardinals will focus on taking a more aggressive approach.

“I’m all about pressure,” he said. “I think at the high school level, the more pressure you put on a high school kid the more likely he is to make a mistake. There are certain fundamentals to defense – you punch, you hit, you squeeze – and you do that right, you’re going to be successful. But bringing heat also helps.

“I think the biggest thing that we’ve seen from watching film from last year to this

year, it’s just a different mentality with what was run. We’re doing a lot more squeezing up front. I think last year they were more of a gap team. So our kids are adjusting to having to get hands on guys and squeeze and stuff like that.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Kyle Moog will again handle the punting, with senior Cameron Macantosh as his backup.

Picetti said they will share kicking duties, with Dykstra as the long snapper. Senior A.J. Long-Lawrence and Harris are projected to return kicks.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Isaac Settles (sr., 6-5, 185), Caleb Ortega (jr., 5-8, 155) Running backs: *Jayden Harris (sr., 6-0, 185), Jaden

Fields (so., 5-9, 165), Bernard Oteng Jr. (jr., 5-11, 180) Receivers: Camden Beatty (jr., 6-0, 165), Zach Horner (sr., 5-9, 160), Abass Kamara (sr., 6-1, 150), AJ LongLawrence (sr., 6-0, 165), Cole McDermott (sr., 5-9, 165) Linemen: *Sam Carver (sr., 6-5, 265), *Ethan Gerding (sr., 6-2, 265), *Jimmy Fenker (sr., 5-11, 240), Grant Linville (sr., 6-0, 260), Xander Llewellyn (sr., 6-2, 230), Sam Scott (jr., 6-2, 235), Michael Skidmore (sr., 5-9, 190) Tight ends: *Brandon Ross (sr., 6-3, 230), Reese Dykstra (sr., 6-2, 230) Defense Linemen: *Carver, *Gerding, *Ross, *Michael Skidmore (sr., 5-9, 190) Linebackers: *Anthony Linebackers Brewu (so., 6-2, 195), *Dykstra, *Oteng Jr. Secondary: *Beatty, *Jayvaun Lane (sr., 5-8, 160), *Josh

Senior Brandon Ross is expected to start at tight end and on the defensive line for the Cardinals.

KEVIN LAM/THISWEEK

Rock (jr., 5-10, 170), Harris, A.J. Long-Lawrence (sr., 6-0, 165), McDermott Special teams Kickers: Cameron Macantosh (sr., 5-8, 140), Kyle Moog (sr., 6-3, 180), Punters: *Moog, Macan-

tosh Returners: *Harris, *LongLawrence Long snapper: *Dykstra (*Denotes projected starter) sborgna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekSteve

29 FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE 2020 Football Preview | ThisWeekSPORTS.com

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OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Big Walnut

Franklin Heights

Veterans give needed boost to Falcons

First-year coach is ready for success

By SCOTT GERFEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM In an offseason filled with uncertainty, first-year Big Walnut coach Rob Page has emphasized “the moment.”

“There’s never been a year or a situation or a season where focusing on winning the day matters more, because you don’t know what tomorrow brings,” Page said about preparing his team during a pandemic. “If there’s ever been a time to live in the now … it’s now.”

The Golden Eagles opened their shortened six-game regular-season schedule — which features only OCC-Capital Division games — against visiting Delaware Aug. 28.

It is the beginning of a new coaching era following the departure of Joe Weaver, a 1994 Big Walnut graduate who led the Golden Eagles for 11 seasons.

Weaver compiled a 55-60 record after also serving nine seasons as an assistant, including three years as defensive coordinator (2006-08).

With Weaver running the defense, Big Walnut won the Division III state championship in 2007 under Scott Wetzel, who has led Delaware’s program since 2018.

Page, a former assistant at Cincinnati Turpin, where he served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach last season, has spent more time getting to know his players than on football.

He scheduled home visits with all 20 seniors, and even had his players write their football obituaries to learn, “What do you want the coach to say about you after you play your last snap?”

“We’ve done our very best to compete and fight through the adversity,” Page said.

“You’ve got to be tough and willing to do things that are hard. I want us to get better every day, every week. We’re going to be prepared, and whoever we play is going to be in for a fight.”

The Golden Eagles last posted a winning record in 2014, when they went 7-3 overall. Last year’s 4-6 finish matched 2017’s record, when Big Walnut won its first league championship since 2011.

In the OCC-Capital Division, Big Walnut went 2-3, finishing behind champions Canal Winchester, Groveport and New Albany (all 4-1) and ahead of Newark (1-4) and Franklin Heights (0-5).

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Jagger Barnett is in his third season as starting quarterback and is coming off a year where he threw for 1,168 yards and six touchdowns and was second-team all-district.

BRIAN S. BAYLESS/THISWEEK

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28...................vs. Delaware *Sept. 4 .........at Westerville South *Sept. 11 .........at Franklin Heights *Sept. 18........vs. Worth. Kilbourne *Sept. 25........at Westerville North *Oct. 2 .................at Dublin Scioto 2019 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 2-3 OCC-Capital) Johnstown........................L, 21-7 Buckeye Valley ...............W, 48-20 Shelby ...........................W, 21-14 Olentangy Orange .............L, 34-3 Marysville .......................L, 38-10 *Newark ........................W, 37-16 *Franklin Heights............W, 49-19

Last season, Turpin’s offense led the Eastern Cincinnati Conference in scoring, rushing and passing for the first time in school history.

The Spartans finished 10-1, losing 27-13 to DeSales in the first round of the Division II, Region 8 playoffs.

Before coaching at Turpin, Page was the head coach for two seasons at Reading, where he was named 2017 Cincinnati Enquirer Division V Coach of the Year. He also has coaching experience at the collegiate level, including Eastern Michigan, Mercyhurst and Wittenberg, and he played

*New Albany ...................L, 26-20 *Groveport ........................L, 49-0 *Canal Winchester...........L, 28-13 *League contest INSIDE THE GOLDEN EAGLES • Coach: Rob Page, first season • Top players: Zach Barnecut (WR/DB), Jagger Barnett (QB), Brady Hershberger (WR/DB), A.J. Leasure (TE/LB), Mark Ruffing (OL/DL), Mahlon Spangler (OL/DL), Gage Sutton (TE/DL), Cole Wecker (OL/DL) and Caden Williams (RB/DE) • Key losses: Ryan Coletta, Tyler Crotinger, Max Lenz and Craig Norman

tight end at Wittenberg.

OFFENSE

While new faces will appear in the huddle, the leader remains the same in third-year starting quarterback Jagger Barnett.

A second-team all-district and first-team all-league selection, the 6-foot-4, 215-pound senior completed 97 of 195 passes for 1,168 yards with six touchdowns and six interceptions and rushed for 311 yards and four touchdowns on 104 carries.

“We put a lot on the quarterback in terms of making the

right decision in the passing game, like which side he’s going to,” Page said. “We give him some freedom in the run game to spit the ball out into the flats … if the box is heavy.

He’s done a really good job with that.

‘I really, really stress getting the ball out of his hands quick. He can run the ball effectively, too.”

Senior tackles Cole Wecker and Mark Ruffing lead the offensive front that will be protecting Barnett, with senior Mahlon Spangler and juniors Grant Ferris, Aidan Hernandez and Wyatt Lenz expected to fill other spots along the line.

Senior Caden Williams, an honorable mention all-league selection on defense, shifts to running back. He will replace 2020 graduate Tyler Crotinger, who rushed for 805 yards and eight touchdowns on 161 carries.

“Pound for pound, he’s probably the strongest kid on our team,” Page said. “He’s a workhorse. I think he’s going to be really good.”

Those competing for time at receiver include seniors

GOLDEN EAGLES >> 33

Things are looking up at Franklin Heights thanks to a large senior class and 10 starters returning on offense.

The seniors were freshmen when coach Cory Fenner took over, and he expects them to excel.

“We have a lot of seniors, a pretty big class with 19 players,” said Fenner, whose team finished 3-7 overall and 0-5 in the OCC-Capital Division last year. “Of those 19, more than 75 percent have played on Friday night, and most are linemen. This is a class we had as freshmen in my first year, so seeing how these guys do this year is really important to us as a staff.”

One of those seniors is Collin Maynard, who sustained a season-ending knee injury in the 2019 preseason.

He was slated to start at offensive tackle and linebacker.

“I overheard Collin telling some younger players earlier in camp that last year he didn’t get a chance to play a down because of a seasonending injury and that they had to go every rep like it might be their last one,” Fenner said. “He’s a great leader and a really good wrestler, which is something we like in our linemen. He not only lost football last year, but also wrestling. I know this season means a lot to him.”

The 6-foot, 225-pound Maynard concurs. He and classmates Kenten Smith (DL) and Giovanni Swinehart (WR) all had season-ending ACL injuries last year.

“I didn’t play a game last year, but there’s not a lot you can do about it because

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .....at Westerville North *Sept. 4 ....vs. Canal Winchester *Sept. 11 ............vs. Big Walnut *Sept. 18..........at Dublin Scioto *Sept. 25 .....at Worth. Kilbourne *Oct. 2 ......vs. Westerville South 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 0-5 OCC-Capital) Hamilton Township .......W, 13-8 Harvest Prep ...............L, 42-12 Briggs ........................W, 53-26 Westland....................W, 28-18 Westerville North .........L, 28-20 *Groveport ....................L, 61-7 *Big Walnut .................L, 49-19 *Canal Winchester .........L, 48-6 *New Albany .................L, 34-7 *Newark......................L, 41-30 *League contest INSIDE THE FALCONS •Coach: Cory Fenner, fourth season •Top players: Jeffery Beverly (QB),Adrian Bowers (RB/LB), Raine Doan (OL/DL), Collin Maynard (OL/LB), Kentre Robinson (OL/LB), Sam Rush (TE/DL), Artell Saunders (WR/LB), Nazir Valentine (RB), Bobby Watt (OL/DL) and Jason Winkhaus (TE/DL) •Key losses: TalonDre Barker, Devin Buchanan, Ray McDonald, Alexis Osorio, Jamacan Sizemore and Aaron Thomas

injuries are just part of the game,” Maynard said. “You just have to keep going on every down like it’s your last.

Once you are out, you become more appreciative of every play. Now we have more effort and appreciate all that we have.”

Last year, the Falcons had to contend with injuries. This year – like the rest of the world – they are trying to stay healthy in the age of COVID19 coronavirus.

“It’s tough because the weight room situation was halted with everything that is

FALCONS >> 54

Coach Cory Fenner, who is entering his fourth season with the Falcons, talks with his team during practice.

SCOTT HENNEN/THISWEEK

31

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Indians short on ‘names’ but not talent

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Canal Winchester coach Josh Stratton said that, at least for now, the Indians might not have all the big names like those who helped the team to a 24-8 record and two Division II playoff appearances the past three seasons.

Junior running back Stephan Byrd began the season closing in on 3,000 career rushing yards, flanked by a new quarterback and a handful of returnees on the offensive line.

Senior linebacker Blaine Riley holds seven college offers, including two from Football Bowl Subdivision schools, and the third-team all-state honoree is the only returning defensive player to have started every game last year.

“We might not have a lot of household names, but they’re fundamentally sound, disciplined football players,” said Stratton, whose fourth season with the Indians began Aug. 28 at home against Worthington Kilbourne. “(They are) very, very reliable kids.”

Still, expectations have not changed for a team that went 9-2 overall and 4-1 in the OCC-Capital Division last year, sharing its second consecutive league championship with Groveport and New Albany before falling to Harrison 24-18 in a Division II, Region 8 first-round playoff game.

“We actually lack quite a bit of experience,” Stratton said. “We have a lot of young, talented players. They’re just kind of unproven. Seven of those seniors last year were three-year starters, but we had a very talented (junior varsity) group last year and we had a deep (varsity) team. We played a lot of guys, so they’re not completely green to Friday night, but they weren’t exactly every down guys.”

Canal Winchester remained in the OCC-Capital as part of conference realignment along with Big Walnut and Franklin Heights. Only two teams in the new-look league finished with winning records, with Westerville South being the other, and the Indians and Wildcats are the league’s only playoff qualifiers from a year ago.

Because the OCC-Capital has eight teams, all of the Indians’ scheduled regular-season games are against division foes. The only team they will miss in the rotation is Big Walnut.

“We’re definitely ready for the new league. We can beat those teams,” senior offensive guard Landon Talbott said.

“We are definitely ready.”

OFFENSE

Byrd, a first-team all-state

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28.....vs. Worth. Kilbourne *Sept. 4 .......at Franklin Heights *Sept. 11.........vs. Dublin Scioto *Sept. 18 ...vs. Westerville North *Sept. 25....at Westerville South *Oct. 2..................vs. Delaware 2019 RESULTS (9-2 overall, 4-1 OCC-Capital) Thomas Worthington...W, 35-17 Olentangy Berlin .........W, 24-21 Teays Valley..................W, 66-7 Westerville North ..........W, 24-7 Grove City ....................W, 38-7 *New Albany...............W, 41-27 *Groveport ....................L, 28-0 *Franklin Heights ..........W, 48-6 *Newark.......................W, 49-0 *Big Walnut ................W, 28-13 PLAYOFFS Harrison ......................L, 24-18 *League contest INSIDE THE INDIANS •Coach: Josh Stratton, fourth season •Top players: Stephan Byrd (RB), Jonathon Chandler (DL), Mason Fry (OL),Andre Heglar (WR), Korbin Martino (DB), Joey Moreno (OL), Reese Musick (QB), Blaine Riley (LB/P) and Luke Twiss (LB) •Key losses: Hunter Allen, Logan Beckwith, Jack Beeler, Elijah Bulluck, Dom Davis, Avery Musick, Kevin Prior, Tyler Toledo and Michael Wilson

“We want to make sure we’re really good on special teams every year,” Stratton said. “So far the past three years, we haven’t had one kick blocked or given up one return (for a touchdown).”

THE LINEUP

Senior linebacker Blaine Riley, shown making a tackle against Groveport last season, is the only returnee on defense to start every game last season. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

selection last year, was ranked the 12th overall recruit in the state and 32nd in the country

by Rivals.com as of Aug. 15.

He holds 13 offers, including from Cincinnati, Michigan and Michigan State, after rushing for 1,499 yards and 23 touchdowns on 220 carries last year.

Byrd also caught nine passes for 205 yards and two scores and was named OCCCapital co-Offensive Player of the Year.

“Every time he touches the ball, he can score,” Stratton said, adding that Byrd now is 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, an increase of 20 pounds from a year ago. “He’s faster, too.

We run 40s every week and he has been running a 4.5 (seconds) every week, all summer. He’s consistent.”

Junior Reese Musick (6-2, 195) was expected to be named starting quarterback, succeeding three-year starter Jack Beeler. He will work behind an offensive line that in addition to Talbott includes seniors Malcolm Guy (T), Jay-

den Lewis (G) and versatile classmate Joey Moreno as well as sophomore center Mason Fry. Senior Andre Heglar moved from tackle to wide receiver.

“This might be the biggest offense overall that I’ve had.

We’re really tall,” Stratton said. “Of our five starting offensive linemen, only one isn’t 6-2 or taller and that is Landon (at 6-0). Landon is a missile. He runs a 4.7 40 at 230 pounds and he hits you with all 230. He was one of our best linemen last year.”

Talbott indicated that the Indians plan to run a balanced offense.

“We want to be passing and running the ball a lot like we usually do,” he said. “We have a very good running back. We don’t want to give away too much, but we’re going to try to be balanced.”

DEFENSE

Senior end Jonathon Chandler is the only returning starter on the line, but Stratton still is enthusiastic about the unit

he said might be the fastest in his time at Canal Winchester.

Riley returns to lead the linebacking corps along with classmate Luke Twiss, and the secondary added track standout Korbin Martino, a senior, at free safety.

“Our defense has speed, but we lack a lot of experience.

We had a lot of seniors on the defense last year, but like I said, they’re talented young guys,” Stratton said. “This is the biggest linebacking corps we’ve had in terms of size.

We could potentially start three linebackers that are all 6-0 or bigger and over 200 pounds. We’re a little smaller up front than we normally are, but they can all run. They’ll be quicker.”

Other linemen will include seniors Adam Scott and Seth Ward. Seniors Jake Chapman, Trent Morningstar and Isaiah Wilson vied for the third starting linebacker spot in the preseason.

“We’re installing a lot of new stuff really early compared to the last couple years,”

Riley said. “The younger guys have taken to things really well. We’re going to be really prepared. I think we could be ahead of the game compared to other teams.”

Martino placed 12th in the 400 meters at the Division I state meet as a freshman and third as a sophomore. He has drawn interest from several major programs, including Florida and Penn State, and is the fourth-ranked recruit in the 400 in the country, according to MileSplit.com.

“He covers from outside the hash to outside the hash,” Stratton said. “He can cover a lot of ground.”

Senior Noah Carter and junior Austin Sickels were expected to be the starting cornerbacks.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Twiss succeeds 2020 graduate Avery Musick, who now is vying for playing time at Marshall, as the Indians’ primary kicker.

Riley will punt, with Byrd and Martino set to return kicks.

Offense Quarterback: *Reese Musick (jr.), Jake Francis (sr.)

Running backs: *Stephan Byrd (jr., 6-1, 210), *C.J. Taylor (sr.), Ethan McGlone (jr.)

Receivers: *Andre Heglar (sr.), *Chris Hupka (sr.)

Tight end: *Dakota Jolly (jr.), Evan McGlone (jr.)

Linemen: *Mason Fry (so.), *Malcolm Guy (sr.), *Jayden Lewis (sr.), *Joey Moreno (sr.), *Ryan Steinbrink (so.), Ethan Martin (jr.)

Defense Linemen: *Jonathon Chandler (sr.), *Adam Scott (sr.), *Seth Ward (sr.), Larry Thomas (jr.), Jeremiah Williams (jr.)

Linebackers: *Blaine Riley (sr.), *Luke Twiss (sr.), Jake Chapman (sr.), Trent Morningstar (sr.), Isaiah Wilson (sr.)

Secondary: *Bryce Barnes (sr.), *Noah Carter (sr.), *Hayden Hull (jr.), *Korbin Martino (sr.), *Austin Sickels (jr.), Myles McKee (so.), Shane Raver (sr.)

Special teams Kicker: *Twiss Punter: *Riley Returners: *Byrd, *Martino Long snapper: *Ethan McGlone (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

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Canal Winchester

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32

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Westerville North

Warriors sense turnaround is on horizon

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

At a glance

When he was hired as Westerville North coach in May 2018, Bryan Johnson told his sophomore class that he expected them to play a large part in helping reverse the Warriors’ recent fortunes.

Most of the 16 seniors on this year’s roster played prominent roles that season and last, and are hopeful that their experience and bond as a class will help the Warriors earn their first .500 or better season since 2005.

North opened Aug. 28 at home against Franklin Heights, beginning a six-game regular season in which all scheduled games are against OCCCapital Division foes.

“The last three years, we’ve played some of the best teams in central Ohio and gone through a lot, but I think the experience helps,” said senior two-way lineman Reuben Simiyu, who is in his third year as a starter.

“The game slows down the more we played. The more varsity time we have, the better. It’s been good to see us grow through those tough times.”

Linebackers Brennan Albertini and Sylvester Bockarie, two-way lineman Mitchell Gillam and long snapper Ty O’Hearn – all seniors – also are in their third season as starters for the Warriors, who went 1-9 overall and 0-5 in the OCC-Buckeye last year.

North faced eight playoff quali-

Wyatt Buxton, a junior, returns for his second season as starting quarterback for the Warriors, who will play at Delaware on Friday, Sept. 4. KEVIN LAM/THISWEEK

fiers last year, including eventual Division III state runner-up Mansfield Senior and two regional finalists in Groveport and Olentangy.

Those teams finished a combined 79-39.

The Warriors hope they are in for a less grueling schedule this season, although two OCC-Capital foes made the playoffs in Canal Winchester and

Westerville South. Those are North’s only two opponents to have had a winning record, and their opponents this season went a combined 26-36 in 2019.

“A playoff contender is what we were striving to be. We’ve fought through adversity,” Johnson said.

“There are new goals and new expectations. They expect to compete and

play well every time out on the field.

“The expectation is to turn the whole program around. We kind of know how things have been since I’ve been here and really the past 15 or 20 years. We haven’t been known as a football school. We want to be a place where people are proud of what they’re putting on the field.

They’ve worked their tails off.”

2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .................vs. Franklin Heights *Sept. 4 .............................at Delaware *Sept. 11 ..............vs. Westerville South *Sept. 18 ...............at Canal Winchester *Sept. 25 ........................vs. Big Walnut *Oct. 2 ............at Worthington Kilbourne 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 0-5 OCC-Buckeye) Groveport..................................L, 31-6 Thomas Worthington ...............L, 24-14 Mansfield Senior .......................L, 14-0 Canal Winchester ......................L, 24-7 Franklin Heights .....................W, 28-20 *Olentangy Orange ....................L, 30-7 *Westerville Central...................L, 21-0 *Westerville South ...................L, 49-21 *Olentangy..............................L, 44-14 *Olentangy Liberty.....................L, 35-7 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS •Coach: Bryan Johnson, third season •Top players: Brennan Albertini (RB/LB), Sylvester Bockarie (RB/LB), Wyatt Buxton (QB), Coby Darlington (WR/DB), Mitchell Gillam (OL/DL), Mohammed Nasser (OL/DL), Ty O’Hearn (WR/DB/LS), Reuben Simiyu (OL/DL) and Hunter Weigand (WR/DB/K) •Key losses: Auri Dover, Charles Perkins, Maximus Plaxico and Quincy Talmadge

OFFENSE

Junior Wyatt Buxton returns for his second season as starting quarterback behind a veteran line anchored by guards Gillam and Simiyu and junior center Nathan Dunfee. Seniors Leiris Manzi and Mohammed Nasser are the tackles.

WARRIORS >> 54

Westerville South

Wildcats feeling good about state of program

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Coming off its first winning season and first postseason berth under coach Matthew Christ, Westerville South is looking to build on that success.

The Wildcats finished 6-5 overall with a 42-34 loss at Toledo St. John’s in a Division II, Region 7 first-round playoff game.

“We’re at a place in the program where people are excited about it,” said Christ, who is in his fourth season. “We made the playoffs last year.

We have some momentum.

We’re in a good place. ... Guys have bought in and there’s excitement around it.”

Because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, South will play an abbreviated, sixgame regular season, and all teams will have the opportunity to compete in the postseason.

“If we can have a playoff opportunity, six games is plenty,” Christ said. “You have to play something to have a

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28...............at Dublin Scioto *Sept. 4 ..................vs. Big Walnut *Sept. 11........at Westerville North *Sept. 18 ...................at Delaware *Sept. 25 ......vs. Canal Winchester *Oct. 2.............at Franklin Heights 2019 RESULTS (6-5 overall, 2-3 OCC-Buckeye) New Albany....................W, 48-21 Worthington Kilbourne ......W, 49-6 Thomas Worthington ......W, 35-21 Upper Arlington ..............W, 28-21 Reynoldsburg..................L, 35-14 *Olentangy......................L, 23-20 *Olentangy Liberty...........L, 37-20 *Westerville North ..........W, 49-21 *West. Central .........W, 23-20 (OT)

pulse of your team if you want to be in the playoffs. I just want to play football.”

South opened Aug. 28 against Dublin Scioto in its first game in the realigned eight-team OCC-Capital Division. All of its scheduled games are in the league, although the Wildcats won’t play Worthington Kilbourne.

The Wildcats will play host to Big Walnut on Friday, Sept.

4, followed by contests against

*Olentangy Orange..........L, 42-24 PLAYOFFS Toledo St. John’s .............L, 42-34 *League contest INSIDE THE WILDCATS •Coach: Matthew Christ, fourth season •Top players: Brandon Armstrong (RB/DB), Matthew Bame (WR/K/P), Zane Boszor (LB), Jesse DeVore (WR/WB), Elvis Gyabeng (H-back/DL), Tyler O’Reilly (OL/DL), Devin OtengAchamfour (HB/DL/LB), Peter Pedrozo (QB), Kaden Saunders (WR/DB) and Javi’er Wills (WR/DB) •Key losses: Ibukunoluwa Alfred, Jake Llaneza, Michael Mansaray and Pat Peterson

Westerville North (Sept. 11), Delaware (Sept. 18), Canal Winchester (Sept. 25) and Franklin Heights (Oct. 2).

The offense should be boosted by the return of senior quarterback Peter Pedrozo, who broke his right collarbone in a 35-14 loss to Reynoldsburg in Week 5 last season.

The Wildcats, however, will have to make up for the graduation of running back Michael Mansaray, who

Junior Brandon Armstrong will start at running back and in the secondary for the Wildcats.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

rushed for 1,431 yards and 21 touchdowns on 194 carries.

He was named district Offensive Player of the Year and first-team all-state and allleague.

Also gone is lineman Pat Peterson, who was first-team all-district and all-league and third-team all-state.

“This is probably the most complete team we’ve had in our time here,” Christ said.

“We have 12 guys who played a lot of football last year.”

OFFENSE

In limited time last season, Pedrozo completed 51 of 81

passes for 748 yards with seven touchdowns and two interceptions.

He’ll play a key role this year in South’s spread offense.

“This team looks explosive, dynamic and very good,” Pedrozo said. “We have a lot of great returning athletes. Not only do we have last year’s talent, but we have a lot of guys coming in.”

Senior wide receiver and wingback Jesse DeVore had 38 receptions for 618 yards and seven touchdowns last season. He was named second-team all-league.

Another key threat should be junior receiver Kaden Saun-

ders, who has committed to Penn State. Last season, he had 20 catches for 370 yards and four touchdowns and was second-team all-league.

Senior Matthew Bame, junior Javi’er Wills and sophomore Jalen Wheeler also should contribute in the passing game, and senior Devin Oteng-Achamfour will start at tight end.

“Our receiving crew is probably our strength right now,” Christ said.

Junior Brandon Armstrong and sophomore Ethan Hanna will look to offset the loss of

WILDCATS >> 54

33

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Work ethic, attitude should benefit Pacers

By STEPHEN BORGNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Two weeks into August, Delaware Hayes coach Scott Wetzel said his team still hadn’t had a scrimmage.

Usually by this time, he said the Pacers would have played two scrimmages and would know who all their starters were, but there is nothing normal about the preseason this year because of the COVID19 coronavirus pandemic.

Still, even after slipping to 3-7 last season following a 64 mark in 2018, Wetzel said he is confident about this year’s group.

“I think the juniors we have this year have taken over as leaders for us,” said Wetzel, whose team traveled to Big Walnut on Aug. 28 to start the six-game regular season. “I feel really good about the kind of attitude and work ethic you need to be a good football team.

The seniors are really driving that home with the team this year.”

“I think everyone on the team is taking (on) their role as a leader, and last year it wasn’t like that,” senior right tackle Gavin Kenney said. “So just the brotherhood on this team is a lot better than last year.”

Returning to lead the offense is senior quarterback Blake Eiland. He will be joined by seniors Logan Eubanks and Ty Gillman at running back and Alex Blevins and Braeden McGrady at receiver.

Wetzel said the Pacers are coming off an “odd” 2019 campaign, one in which they finished 1-6 in the OCC-Cardinal Division to tie Worthington Kilbourne behind champion Dublin Jerome (61), Hilliard Darby and Olentangy Berlin (5-2), Hilliard Bradley (4-3) and Dublin Scioto and Thomas Worthington (3-4).

Delaware fell to Thomas (17-10) and Hilliard Bradley (21-17) in games that went down to the final minutes, but

At a glance

Blake Eiland enters his fourth season as the starting quarterback. A year ago he threw for 799 yards and five touchdowns and rushed for 863 yards and six touchdowns. SHANE FLANIGAN/THISWEEK

the Pacers did hand Jerome its only conference defeat, downing the Celtics 28-7 in Week 7.

“We had a lot of close games where we had opportunities to win and we just didn’t finish,” said Wetzel, whose team lost 25 seniors to graduation. “We have to do a better job of being prepared to finish a football game, and that’s one of the things we’re definitely working on this year.”

OFFENSE

Eiland, a dual-threat quarterback who has started the past three years, completed 77 of 158 passes for 799 yards with five touchdowns and ran for 863 yards and six scores.

He is projected to start again, but junior Austin Dowell is expected to line up behind center in certain packages. “(Eiland) is just an athletic kid. He’s extremely athletic.

Brings a lot to the table,” Wetzel said. “(That being said), our other quarterback is pretty good. We

want to get Austin on the field, so to get Austin on the field we’ll probably move Blake into some different slots and stuff like that.”

“We want to get our athletes on the field, and Austin is in that mix of kids who could be pretty good athletes for us.”

After running for 163 yards and a touchdown on 34 carries last year, Eubanks is expected to share the backfield with Gillman.

“We use a lot of two-back sets,” Wetzel said. “Eubanks and Gillman will both be there.”

Newcomers Alex Blevins and Braeden McGrady are expected to fill the gaps in the receiving corps, while senior Dom Boeriu is projected to replace tight end Nabil Abdussalaam, who caught 18 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns.

“Your tight end has to be kind of a gritty, tough kid and Dom is that type of kid,” Wetzel said.

On the offensive line, Ken-

ney will be part of an all-senior group that includes Marshall Klingel (left tackle), Matt McGeath (left guard), Logan Gibson (center) and Grayson Miller (right guard).

Kenney and McGeath are returning starters.

“I feel like we’ve got a lot of good athletes on our team,” McGeath said. “I feel like this team, we’re all playing for each other.”

Senior Gage Sutton, who Page said “has an extremely high motor,” will start at defensive end. Others in the mix up front include seniors Lenz, Hernandez and Spangler, juniors Wes Skinner and Christian Takatch and sophomore Ethan Clawson.

Those vying for spots at defensive back include seniors Brady Hershberger and twins John and Justin Embaugh and junior Lane Pritchard. Hershberger missed last season with an injury.

Big Walnut must replace last season’s defensive leaders in 2020 graduates Ryan Coletta (honorable mention and second-team all-league)

and Max Lenz (second-team all-district and first-team allleague) and Lucas Ronk (second-team all-district and firstteam all-league).

DEFENSE

The Pacers’ 3-4 defense will feature a rotation consisting of juniors Ruben Beltran and Ben Chesnes as well as McGeath and Klingel up front.

Seniors Josh Koehler, Kaleb Shaw and Boeriu and junior Toby Bohrer are expected to anchor the linebacker group, with the secondary including seniors Frank Cialiqui, Armond Rose-Miles and Orion Ward, junior Armon Weaver, and sophomore Xavier Weaver.

Blevins, Eiland, and Gillman also should see action in

2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28...............at Big Walnut *Sept. 4 .....vs. Westerville North *Sept. 11 .....at Worth. Kilbourne *Sept. 18...vs. Westerville South *Sept. 25.........vs. Dublin Scioto *Oct. 2 .......at Canal Winchester 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 1-6 OCC-Cardinal) Buckeye Valley .............W, 35-0 Marysville ...................L, 35-14 Westland......................W, 49-6 *Olentangy Berlin ........L, 32-21 *Dublin Scioto .............L, 29-17 *Worth. Kilbourne ........L, 36-21 *Dublin Jerome ............W, 28-7 *Thomas Worthington ..L, 17-10 *Hilliard Darby ...............L, 24-6 Hilliard Bradley ............L, 21-17 *League contest INSIDE THE PACERS •Coach: Scott Wetzel, third season •Top players: Alex Blevins (WR), Austin Dowell (QB), Blake Eiland (QB) Logan Eubanks (RB), Ty Gillman (RB), Matt McGeath (OL/DL), Logan Gibson (OL), Gavin Kenney (OL), Braeden McGrady (WR), Kaleb Shaw (LB) and Orion Ward (DB) •Key losses: Nabil Abdus-salaam, Jahi Broussard-Nash, Colby Cooper, Luke Jackson and Sebastian Meehan

the defensive backfield.

Wetzel said the secondary will shuffle around depending on the matchup, with starters and position groups not set in stone.

“That’s one thing about our league. We’ll face some teams that will try to run the ball down your throat. And we’ll have some teams that’ll try to throw the ball deep and beat you with their speed,” he said. “We just get a lot of different looks from teams.”

After allowing 20.7 points per game last season, McGeath is expecting a better performance from the defensive unit.

“I feel with this team and what this defense can do, we can make a good impact,” he said.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Jared McKeen is

expected to handle the kicking and punting, and Wetzel is confident in his ability.

“He’s got potential to be a pretty good kicker for us,” Wetzel said.

Klingel will be the long snapper replacing Dylan Seiler, who is playing at Ball State.

Blevins, Ward and Armon Weaver are expected to return kicks.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Blake Eiland (sr., 6-0, 185), Austin Dowell (jr., 6-1, 190) Running backs: *Logan Eubanks (sr., 5-8, 170), Ty Gillman (senior, 5-10, 170) Receivers: *Alex Blevins (sr., 6-2, 205), *Braeden McGrady (sr., 5-10, 155), Orion Ward (sr., 5-9, 160), Nick Wildman (sr., 5-10, 185), Armon Weaver (jr., 5-10, 155) Linemen: *Matt McGeath (sr., 6-2, 240), *Logan Gibson (sr., 5-10, 270), *Gavin Kenney (sr., 6-4, 290), *Marshall Klingel (sr., 6-2, 240), *Grayson Miller (sr., 5-11, 275) Tight end: *Dom Boeriu (sr., 5-10, 160) Defense Lineman: Ruben Beltran (sr., 5-10, 215), Ben Chesnes (sr., 6-2, 240), Klingel, McGeath, Lucas McKeen (jr., 5-11, 215), Braeden Rhodes (sr., 5-10, 205) Linebackers: *Boeriu, *Toby Bohrer (jr., 6-0, 200), *Josh Koehler (sr., 5-10, 180), *Kaleb Shaw (sr., 6-0, 210) Secondary: Blevins, Frank Cialiqui (sr., 5-7, 145), Eiland, Gillman, Armond Rose-Miles (sr., 6-0, 175), Ward, Armon Weaver (jr., 5-10, 155), Xavier Weaver (so., 5-10, 150) Special teams Kicker: *Jared McKeen (sr., 6-1, 180) Punter: *McKeen Punter Returners: Blevins, Ward, Returners Armon Weaver Long snapper: *Klingel (*Denotes projected starter) sborgna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekSteve

GOLDEN EAGLES FROM >> 30

Zack Barnecut, Sam Fortney and Jake Bales, juniors Dom Salazar and Jameson Welker and sophomores Grant Coulson and Cam Gladden.

Barnecut was one of last year’s top receivers with 21 catches for 251 yards and a touchdown, finishing just behind 2020 graduate Craig Norman (18 catches, 255 yards, 2 TDs).

DEFENSE

Page has simplified things for a defense that allowed 26.5 points per game.

“We’ve got to be able to get lined up to a variety of for-

mations easily,” he said. “So our system is set up to get lined up fast and be able to play a team who is going to try and tempo you or a wing-T team that’s going to try and smack you.”

Among its leaders is senior linebacker A.J. Leasure, a second-team all-league selection who will line up in the middle. Others expected to see action at linebacker are seniors Matt Fry and Gordon Rond and junior Lawrence O’Malley.

“It’s all about getting lined up, play fast and get downhill,” Leasure said. “Coaches have really simplified it. It’s something I really like.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Gladden is expected to handle the kicking and punting for the Golden Eagles, and the long snapper will be Lenz.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback *Jagger BarQuarterback: nett (sr., 6-4, 215) Running back: *Caden Williams (sr., 6-0, 190) Tight ends: A.J. Leasure (sr., 6-2, 215), Gage Sutton

(sr., 6-3, 210) Receivers: Jake Bales (sr., 6-1, 180), Zach Barnecut (sr., 6-1, 185), Grant Colson (so., 6-1, 180), Cam Gladden (so., 5-9, 155), Sam Fortney (sr., 6-2, 180), Dom Salazar (jr., 5-9, 150), Jameson Welker (jr., 6-2, 185) Linemen: Grant Ferris (jr., 6-2, 240), Aiden Hernandez (so., 6-0, 205), Wyatt Lenz (jr., 5-11, 215), *Mark Ruffing (sr., 6-5, 270), Mahlon Spangler (sr., 5-10, 225), *Cole Wecker (sr., 6-5, 245) Defense Linemen: *Gage Sutton (sr., 6-3, 210), Ethan Clawson (so., 6-4, 190), Hernandez, Lenz, Wes Skinner (jr., 6-2, 190),

Spangler, Christian Takatch (jr., 6-2, 210) Linebackers: *Leasure, Matt Fry (sr., 5-8, 185), Lawrence O’Malley (jr., 5-10, 190), Gordon Rond (sr., 5-8, 175) Secondary: John Embaugh (sr., 5-8, 170), Justin Embaugh (sr., 5-8, 170), Brady Hershberger (sr., 6-3, 200), Lane Pritchard (jr., 5-11, 180) Special teams Kicker: *Gladden Punter: *Gladden Long snapper: *Lenz Returners: TBD (*Denotes projected starter) sports@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekSports

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Delaware Hayes

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34

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Dublin Scioto

Irish seeking first OCC title since 2003

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Dublin Scioto coach Karl Johnson entered the season believing his team has the potential to contend for a title in the new-look OCC-Capital Division.

Like most programs, though, Johnson realizes the Irish must avoid injuries and illnesses amid the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

“We have the potential,” said Johnson, who is in his 21st season. “We have some good players. Building depth is always an issue, so this year it’s going to be a bigger issue than in past years.”

The Irish opened the season Aug. 28 against Westerville South, and the traditional Battle of Hard Road will take place at Worthington Kilbourne on Friday, Sept. 4.

“It would have been very disappointing if we weren’t able to keep that game, but with them being in the league it worked out that we didn’t have to worry about it,” Johnson said.

After Scioto finished 4-6 overall and 3-4 in the OCCCardinal a year ago and failed to qualify for the Division II playoffs in Region 7, Johnson hopes his team can win its first OCC championship since 2003.

“I like our schedule, I like our league,” Johnson said. “It’s eight teams that are going to be very competitive and close to the same size. It’s going to be good competition every week.”

With the abbreviated regular season, all teams are eligible for the postseason starting the second week of October .

Johnson believes a return to some sort of normalcy is important.

“For the kids and the coaches, the most normal part of the day is going to football practice because it feels pretty

normal,” Johnson said. “We’re trying to do all the right things.

Kids are wearing masks.

We’re taking temperatures.

We have them spacing out during practice. At the end of the day, you just do the best that you can.”

Scioto will have a new look at quarterback after the graduation of Chad Ray. He was 109-for-187 passing for 1,310 yards with 10 touchdowns and four interceptions over the final seven games after missing the first three contests with a leg injury.

Also gone are Pete Hrelec, who led the team in rushing with 1,050 yards and 15 touchdowns on 182 carries, and Tobias Thomas, who ran for 336 yards and six touchdowns on 65 carries and had 24 receptions for 269 yards and two scores.

Hrelec was first-team allleague and second-team alldistrict, and Thomas was second-team all-league and honorable mention all-district.

OFFENSE

A competition at quarterback developed in the preseason between senior Ibby Abumallouh and junior Amare Jenkins.

Abumallouh filled in for Ray to start last season and completed 25 of 46 passes for 225 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

“Competition is good,” Johnson said. “Either one of them is capable of running the (spread) offense.”

Johnson foresees running back by committee with senior Zion Freeman-Walker, juniors Xavier Jeffy and Mason Salvator and sophomore Ed Worthen.

“All these guys will get reps until we develop who we are,” Johnson said.

Scioto must replace Thomas at wide receiver, with senior Xavier Lopes expected to be a major contributor.

Other key receivers should

Senior Xavier Lopes will start at wide receiver and in the secondary while also being part of the return game for the Irish.

LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

include senior Emad Kate, juniors Lesley Andoh, Tysen Boze and Silas Moore and sophomore Aaron Weeks.

Seniors Joe Trent and Vernon Williams will split time at tight end.

“We just want to play every game that we can,” Trent said.

“Hopefully we get all the way to the playoffs and keep going from there every chance that we get.”

Key linemen include seniors Aidhan Boyle, Vaughn Francis, Malcolm Green, Koel Shaw and Harrison Smith and juniors Nick Ansley, Maxwell Martin-Lee and Terrell Triplett.

“It always starts up front,” Johnson said. “Max MartinLee looks great. He looks like a dude. We’re really happy with him.”

DEFENSE

Williams and Trent should anchor the defense at the end spots, and they are confident that the Irish have put themselves in a position to have success.

“The O-line and D-line are the hardest workers on the team,” Williams said. “We lead our team into every battle that we face. It’s always family with us. … I feel like

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .......vs. Westerville South *Sept. 3...........at Worth. Kilbourne *Sept. 11 .......at Canal Winchester *Sept. 18........vs. Franklin Heights *Sept. 25 ...................at Delaware *Oct. 2....................vs. Big Walnut 2019 RESULTS (4-6 overall, 3-4 OCC-Cardinal) St. Charles ......................L, 28-21 New Albany.....................L, 28-24 Whitehall........................W, 49-14 *Dublin Jerome...............L, 25-17 *Delaware......................W, 29-17 *Hilliard Bradley .............W, 38-36 *Worthington Kilbourne...W, 30-14

this is the best opportunity we have because we have talent.

We have athleticism. We have all that we need to be great.”

Martin-Lee will play tackle and Shaw will be at nose guard. Linebackers include Francis, Salvator and junior Cameron Jackson, while the secondary should feature Andoh and Lopes at cornerback, Kate at free safety and Freeman-Walker at strong safety.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Dejwar Ali and Salvator competed in the preseason for kicking and punting duties.

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*Olentangy Berlin ............L, 32-29 *Thomas Worth. ....L, 30-27 (2 OT) *Hilliard Darby.................L, 35-14 *League contest INSIDE THE IRISH •Coach: Karl Johnson, 21st season •Top players: Ibby Abumallouh (QB), Xavier Jeffy, (WR/LB), Amare Jenkins (QB/DB), Xavier Lopes (WR/DB), Joe Trent (TE/DL) and Vernon Williams (TE/DE) •Key losses: Yousef Alchahal,Aidan Ekis, Gage Hannan, Donovan Hardin, Pete Hrelec, Marty Neuhardt, Deron Pulliam and Chad Ray

Sophomore Nico Crawford is the long snapper, and Andoh, Lopes and Moore could be key return threats.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: Ibby Abumallouh (sr., 5-9, 189), Amare Jenkins (jr., 6-1, 160) Running backs: Xavier Jeffy (jr., 5-8, 162), Mason Salvator (jr., 5-10, 183), Ed Worthen (so., 5-8, 201), Zion Freeman-Walker (sr., 6-0, 165) Receivers: *Xavier Lopes (sr., 6-3, 175), Lesley Andoh (jr., 6-0, 165), Tysen Boze (jr., 6-2, 186), Jeffy, Emad Kate (sr., 5-11, 160), Silas Moore

(jr., 5-10, 145), Aaron Weeks (so., 5-7, 150) Tight ends: Joe Trent (sr., 6-4, 201), Vernon Williams (sr., 6-5, 236) Linemen: *Nick Ansley (jr., 6-1, 364, *Malcolm Green (sr., 6-0. 264), *Maxwell MartinLee (jr., 6-2, 310), *Terrell Triplett (jr., 5-10, 301), Aidhan Boyle (sr., 5-8, 188), Nico Crawford (so., 6-1, 228), Vaughn Francis (sr., 5-11, 215), Koel Shaw (sr., 5-8, 185), Colin Sink (jr., 5-6, 196), Harrison Smith (sr., 6-0, 190), Williams Defense Linemen: *Martin-Lee, *Shaw, *Trent, *Williams, Dejwar Ali (sr., 5-10, 205), Enrique Luna (sr., 5-10, 178), Triplett Linebackers: *Francis, *Salvator, Ali, Cameron Jackson (jr., 5-8, 160), Jeffy Secondary: *Andoh, *Freeman-Walker, *Kate, *Lopes, Boze Special teams Kickers: Ali, Salvator Punters: Ali, Salvator Returners: Andoh, Lopes, Moore Long sna snappper: *Crawford (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

35

OCC-C APITAL D IVISION

Wolves expecting to show improvement

By STEPHEN BORGNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM At the end of last season, Worthington Kilbourne coach Mike Edwards described his team’s 1-9 campaign as a “transition year,” one that saw the Wolves install a new offense, defense and culture.

Now in year two of his tenure, Edwards said he sees signs of improvement — not only with the X’s and O’s, but with the team’s confidence that they can execute on game night.

“I need our guys to believe that they can win,” he said.

“That’s something we talked about a lot in the offseason.

Belief in the coaches, belief in the system, belief most importantly in themselves.

Expecting to win.”

“We’ve seen a huge shift in how these kids are acting, working and responding than we did last year. It’s more of a buy-in. But I think most importantly, we’ve now had a full year to build a relationship and trust with these kids.”

Last year’s season – one that saw the Wolves go 1-6 in the OCC-Cardinal Division behind champion Dublin Jerome (6-1), with their only win a 36-21 victory over Delaware – is behind them as they look to find their footing in 2020.

And although the Wolves lost 21 seniors to graduation, Edwards is excited about the potential of his current group led by senior quarterback Mitchell Tomasek, a two-year starter who was second-team all-league.

And despite a preseason that was disrupted because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and the brief suspension of sports by Worthington schools from July 28 to Aug. 6, this year’s group of Wolves feel like they’re riding some momentum heading into 2020.

“We’ve missed out on a good amount of time to get better,” senior running back Terrique Gray said. “But with the time that we have had, everyone’s been putting in a lot of hard work.

“We’re keeping the team together, making sure everyone feels unified so we’re all one – working as a team instead of individual players.”

Senior Terrique Gray returns at running back after rushing for 517 yards and two touchdowns last season, when the Wolves finished 1-9.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

OFFENSE

Tomasek was 146-for-259 passing for 1,415 yards with nine touchdowns and 11 interceptions last season.

“As a quarterback, for us, I think his overall toughness and leadership abilities is why we love him so much,” Edwards said. “The kids look at him, the kids believe in Mitchell, and Mitchell’s a calm, cool and collected Friday night football player.”

“He never gets too high, never gets too low, stays in the moment, and makes a lot of plays not only with his arm but with his legs. He’s one heck of a runner. He's tough.”

With many of its other skillposition players back, Kilbourne expects to improve its average of 11.6 points per game.

“All-around, I think our attack is going to be better,” Tomasek said. “We’re kind of slimming stuff down on the offense, so there’s not as much to work with, and we all know exactly what we’re doing. I think we’ll be a lot better.”

Gray returns at running back after rushing for 517 yards on 145 carries with two touchdowns to earn honorable-mention all-league honors.

“He’s tough as nails,” Edwards said. “There were

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 ........at Canal Winchester *Sept. 3 ..............vs. Dublin Scioto *Sept. 11........vs. Delaware Hayes *Sept. 18 .................at Big Walnut *Sept. 25........vs. Franklin Heights *Oct. 2 ..........vs. Westerville North 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 1-6 OCC-Cardinal) Olentangy Orange .............L, 16-6 Westerville South ..............L, 49-6 Groveport........................L, 41-14 *Thomas Worthington......L, 20-13 *Olentangy Berlin ............L, 28-20 *Delaware......................W, 36-21 *Dublin Scioto .................L, 30-14

multiple games last year where we knew if we could get Terrique to the second level – to that linebacker level – he’s a really hard one-on-one guy to bring down. Not only that, but he’s durable. He’s a grinder.

He can carry the ball 25 times a game every week.”

Seniors Skylar Scott and Cayden Dougherty are projected to be the top receiving options, and junior Bryce Taylor will play tight end.

The line will include senior Luke Brown (right guard), juniors Jason Miller (right tackle) and Reed Williamson (left guard) and sophomore Zane Swackhammer (left tackle), with junior Joey Cottrill and senior Kenny Nally competing for time at center.

*Hilliard Darby...................L, 38-0 *Hilliard Bradley ................L, 49-7 *Dublin Jerome.................L, 56-0 *League contest INSIDE THE WOLVES • Coach: Mike Edwards, second season • Top players: Luke Brown (OL/DL), Cayden Dougherty (WR/DB), Mitchell Tomasek (QB/P), Terrique Gray (RB/LB), Spencer Parker-Gordon (WR/DB), Skylar Scott (WR/DB), Bryce Taylor (TE/LB), Brian Wilson (RB/LB) • Key losses: Sam English, Carter Haase, Manny Herraiz, Jacob Keslar

DEFENSE

Brown and sophomore Nana Amponsah will be at tackle in Kilbourne’s 4-2-5 defense. Senior Bryce Taylor is a returning starter at end, and junior Ashton Selph and sophomore E.J, Montgomery will rotate at that position.

Seniors Brian Wilson (40 tackles) and Harrison Kline (31 tackles) are back at linebacker and will be joined by sophomore Marcus Gibson.

Senior Spencer Parker-Gordon returns at safety, with junior Lachlan Korn (safety), senior Joseph Borchers (cornerback) and Scott (cornerback) rounding out the secondary.

Edwards said discipline and generating more turnovers will be keys to improvement for a

defense that allowed 34.8 points per game.

“I think the biggest thing is, No. 1, being a disciplined defense,” he said. “Doing your job. Executing your role, playby-play. When we had senior meetings in the winter, one of the biggest things was executing our roles on the defensive side. That wasn’t done very well last year.”

“No. 2, create some sacks and turnovers. As a defensive line last year, we were not good enough pass rushers to get pressure on the quarterback. And we were not able to create turnovers well enough.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Tomasek is back to handle the punting after averaging 47 yards, with 16 of 46 kicks downed inside the 20. He was first-team all-league at that position.

Junior Musab Erciyas will be the kicker, with Wilson as the long snapper.

Junior Trey Davis, Dougherty and Scott are all expected to return kicks.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Mitchell Tomasek (sr., 6-3, 190), Nash Biglin (so., 6-3, 195) Running backs: *Terrique

Gray (sr., 5-9, 195) Receivers: *Skylar Scott (sr., 6-0, 165), *Cayden Dougherty (sr., 5-10, 175), Justin Allen (jr., 5-11, 165), Joseph Borchers (sr., 5-9, 145) Linemen: *Luke Brown, (sr., 6-0, 240), *Jason Miller (jr., 6-1, 250), *Zane Swackhammer (so., 6-0, 205); *Reed Williamson (jr., 5-11, 250), Joey Cottrill (Jr., 5-8, 190), Kenny Nally (sr., 5-10, 205) Tight end: *Bryce Taylor (jr., 6-1, 185) Defense Linemen: *Nana Amponsah (so., 5-8, 220), *Brown, Ashton Selph (jr., 6-3, 210), E.J. Montgomery (so., 6-1, 185), Taylor Linebackers: *Marcus Gibson (so., 5-10, 205), *Harrison Kline (sr., 5-8, 177) *Brian Wilson (sr., 5-11, 190), Tommy Brown, (so., 6-2,170) Secondary: *Borchers, *Lachlan Korn (jr., 5-10, 155), *Spencer Parker-Gordon (sr., 5-7,140), *Scott Special teams Kicker: *Musab Erciyas (jr.,) Punter: *Tomasek Long snapper: *Wilson Returners: Trey Davis (jr., 5-8, 160), Dougherty, Scott (*Denotes projected starter) sborgna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekSteve

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Worthington Kilbourne

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C ENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

Senior Marcelis Parker will start at running back and linebacker for the Hawks and coach Brad Burchfield, who is in his 13th season. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

Hartley

Hawks ready to tackle CCL-heavy schedule

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Just a few hours after football was approved to go forward this fall by Gov. Mike DeWine on Aug. 18, Hartley coach Brad Burchfield had a heart-to-heart with his players about personal responsibility.

He started by asking his players about how they’d handled the uncertainty of the past few months.

“We know that it could have been taken away if we didn’t do the right things, but it’s going to take all of us together,” Burchfield told his players.

“There was a big party we heard about up in Toledo and those kids thought nothing would happen, and maybe nothing does happen and it would be OK, but (we can’t) give people the ammunition to say that kids can’t be responsible for what we’re giving them.”

The Hawks believe they have much to play for during a six-game regular season that was instituted by the OHSAA for this year, which is followed by every team making the playoffs.

In what was Hartley’s third season in Division III after it won back-to-back Division IV state titles in 2015 and ’16, it lost just one regular-season game and made it to a state semifinal.

The Hawks fell to eventual state champion TrotwoodMadison 24-19 to finish 12-2 and went 3-0 in the CCL to capture their third consecutive league title.

After opening Aug. 28 at home against Cincinnati Moeller, Hartley will play the remainder of its regular season against CCL programs. St. Charles is playing each of its three CCL opponents one time.

The Hawks, who have won 11 consecutive league games, lost eight players to graduation who made first- or second-team all-CCL. They also aren’t expected to have senior offensive lineman Jake Skelly, a second-team all-league selection last season and Ohio University recruit after he was diagnosed with leukemia earlier this year.

Still, Hartley has experienced players scattered throughout the field and a system that has produced 10 consecutive playoff appearances and three state titles during that span.

“I’m glad to have one last season with my brothers,” senior offensive lineman and linebacker Tony Thivener said.

“There were some doubts, speculation, when we were going to have a season, if we were going to have a season.

I’m just happy to be out here and have one last round with my guys. We obviously haven’t been able to spend as much time together because of everything that’s been going on and having the young guys step up, that’s always a really integral part of our team.”

OFFENSE

Senior Marcelis Parker and junior Richard Kenny were contributors on offense a year ago who should have an even bigger impact this fall.

Trey Saunders, a junior, will start at running back and in the secondary.

LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28........vs. Cincinnati Moeller *Sept. 4 ...................vs. Watterson *Sept. 11 .....................at DeSales *Sept. 18 ................at St. Charles *Sept. 25 ..................at Watterson *Oct. 2........................vs. DeSales 2019 RESULTS (12-2 overall, 3-0 CCL) Erial (N.J.) Timber Creek .....................................W, 34-13 Wheelersburg ..................W, 44-6 Gahanna ........................W, 38-21 Dayton Chaminade Julienne .....................................W, 47-26 Clinton-Massie................L, 24-14 *St. Charles......................W, 30-7 Austintown-Fitch............W, 21-14 *Watterson ......................W, 39-0 Dayton Belmont ...............W, 44-6 *DeSales........................W, 20-13

The Hawks lost running back Jalan January (2,163 yards, 30 touchdowns rushing) as well as three-year starting quarterback Miles Fleming (859 yards passing, 736 yards rushing) and wide receiver Angelo Evans (21 receptions) to graduation.

Kenny, who could see time at both wide receiver and in the backfield, was the secondleading receiver with 13 catches for 240 yards and three touchdowns and also rushed for 348 yards and one score.

Parker ran 49 times for 396 yards and three touchdowns.

Taking over at quarterback is sophomore Peyton Underwood, whose brother, Austin Underwood, quarterbacked the state championship team in 2010 and is a 2012 Hartley graduate.

Junior Bryce January also should see action at quarter-

PLAYOFFS London ............................W, 14-8 Granville .......................W, 35-13 Jonathan Alder...............W, 27-14 Trotwood-Madison ..........L, 24-19 *League contest INSIDE THE HAWKS •Coach: Brad Burchfield, 13th season •Top players: James Crenshaw (OL/DL), Richard Kenny (WR/DB), Sumo Kesselly (RB/LB), Marcelis Parker (RB/LB), Shawn Saunders (WR/DB), Trey Saunders (RB/DB), Kason Sunderland (WR/DB), Tony Thivener (OL/LB) and Daniel Tooson (TE/DL) •Key losses: KiRonAnderson,Kenyon Davis, Dion Drake, George Dunor, Angelo Evans, Miles Fleming, Jalan January and Mason Sawyer

back.

“I’m just glad we’re having a season, period,” Parker said.

“I think we need to connect more as a team because we’ve got a lot of new people coming in and filling positions.”

Senior Sumo Kesselly and junior Cherod Bowens, a St. Charles transfer, also should get carries at running back.

Burchfield is excited about what junior Trey Saunders can provide from an athletic standpoint as either a running back or wide receiver.

Seniors Shawn Saunders and Kason Sunderland are other returning wide receivers.

Junior Daniel Tooson, who has been receiving college interest on defense, could see time at both tight end and at tackle. Senior James Crenshaw also will be at tackle, with Thivener and junior Andrew McFeeters at guard and senior

Sammy Ray at center.

DEFENSE

Kesselly, Parker and Tooson were special mention alldistrict honorees last season who should lead the defense.

Tooson and Crenshaw will line up at end, with seniors Travis Bowie and Sam LeMay, junior Avion Murphy and sophomore Keilan Smith other options up front.

Parker has moved from outside linebacker to inside linebacker, where he’s joined by Thivener and sophomore Dylan Newsome. Kesselly will be at outside linebacker along with senior Will Miller and sophomores DeAunte’ Hubbard and Anthony Murphy.

Shawn Saunders and Sunderland are starting at cornerback, with Trey Saunders, Kenny and juniors Nyal Johnson and Aidan Turner also getting playing time in the secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Ryan Hawk returns at kicker after making two field goals and 35 of 38 extra points.

He also is the punter.

Junior Joseph Ferryman is the new long snapper after 2020 graduate Mason Sawyer performed in that role the last three seasons.

Returning kicks and punts will be Kenny and Trey Saunders.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Peyton Underwood (so., 6-0, 170),

Bryce January (jr., 5-10, 165) Running backs: *Sumo Kesselly (sr., 6-1, 235), *Marcelis Parker (sr., 6-0, 240), *Trey Saunders (jr., 5-11, 185), Cherod Bowens (jr., 6-1, 215), DeAunte’ Hubbard (so., 5-11, 190) Receivers: *Richard Kenny (jr., 5-10, 165), Shawn Saunders (sr., 6-0, 170), Kason Sunderland (sr., 6-0, 175) Tight ends: *Travis Bowie (sr., 6-4, 220), Daniel Tooson (jr., 6-1, 250) Linemen: *James Crenshaw (sr., 6-1, 265), *Andrew McFeeters (jr., 5-11, 220), *Sammy Ray (sr., 6-0, 230), *Tony Thivener (sr., 6-1, 230), *Tooson Defense Linemen: *Crenshaw, *Tooson, Bowie, Sam LeMay (sr., 6-1, 220), Avion Murphy (jr., 6-3, 275), Keilan Smith (so., 6-0, 275) Linebackers: *Kesselly, *Will Miller (sr., 6-0, 180), *Parker, Hubbard, Anthony Murphy (so., 6-1, 185), Dylan Newsome (so., 5-10, 185), Thivener ondaary: *Shawn SaunSecond Sec ders, *Trey Saunders, *Sunderland, Nyal Johnson (jr., 510, 200), Kenny, Aidan Turner (jr., 5-10, 170) Special teams Kicker: *Ryan Hawk (sr., 5-10, 165)) Punter: *Hawk Returners: *Kenny, Trey Saunders Long snapper: *Joseph Ferryman (jr., 6-1, 215) (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

37

C ENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

Stallions have potential to do ‘great things’

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Despite moving to Division II after being in Division III the previous 10 seasons, DeSales made the postseason after coming up short the previous two seasons and won the 55th playoff game in program history.

In this most unusual of offseasons, the typical goals of battling for the CCL title to set the Stallions up for the postseason didn’t get lost.

DeSales last won a league title in 2016 when it reached a Division III state semifinal before following with records of 6-4 and 5-5. Last fall, it lost 42-7 to Harrison in a Division II, Region 8 semifinal to finish 9-3.

“This team can do a lot of great things,” senior linebacker Jason Velazquez II said. “We’ve got a really talented senior class. We bring back four offensive linemen, four to five defensive linemen and almost our whole linebacking corps. This team can do a lot of damage this season.”

DeSales lost to Hartley 2013 to finish 2-1 in the CCL behind the Hawks (3-0).

After the OHSAA announced a six-game regular season Aug. 7 followed by every team being eligible for the playoffs, the CCL scrapped most of its nonleague schedule and announced a home-and-home all-CCL schedule.

St. Charles won’t be playing during the season’s first three weeks but is expected to compete during weeks four, five and six, including Sept. 25 at DeSales.

In the Cardinals’ place Sept. 4 will be a trip to Mansfield Senior, which was the Division III state runner-up and finished 13-2 last fall.

DeSales had just 11 seniors last season, but after losing to Division I playoff qualifier Dublin Jerome 45-14 in week 2, the Stallions went on a seven-game winning streak that locked up a playoff berth The biggest holes to fill heading into the opener Aug. 28 at Watterson were at quarterback after two-year starter Reno Godfrey was lost to graduation and at both linebacker and on the offensive line where they lost two starters apiece.

“Starting in July we were able to get into helmets three times a week and have camp type of practices where we were able to have some group work and play 7-on-7s,” coach Ryan Wiggins said.

“It’s been good to get back together after the long layoff.

Offensively up front we have some guys that return. We’re kind of rebuilding some of our receivers and we lost our

back on the line.

Junior Jackson Carawan and Pentello also are at safety, with Johnson at cornerback.

Juniors Rechee Smith and Ayan Comedy are others looking to contribute in the secondary.

Cain and seniors Jackson Hartman and Joshua MartinHayden will join Stewart on the defensive line.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Stallions have a new kicker in senior J.J. Baughman, who made field goals of longer than 40 yards during the preseason and “is a strong kid with an accurate leg” according to Wiggins.

He replaces Randy Tawiah, a 2020 graduate who made four field goals and was 38 of 41 on extra points.

Junior Nathaniel WallaceDilling is the returning punter and Stewart returns at long snapper.

Johnson and Quinn are among the kickoff and punt returners. Quinn returned a kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown during a 35-31 victory over Kettering Alter last season.

THE LINEUP

Junior Jonathan Thompson (left) and senior Quintell Quinn both will start at running back and at linebacker for the Stallions.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

quarterback from last year’s offense, so we’ve got to kind of retool in those areas.

Defensively we have a few guys that contributed up front.”

OFFENSE

The Stallions have a talented and experienced returnee to build their offense around in senior Quintell Quinn, who rushed for 1,808 yards and 20 touchdowns on 258 carries.

Junior Jonathan Thompson also saw action in the backfield last season and should get carries again, along with freshman Nasir Phillips.

Junior Whit Hobgood and sophomore Nicky Pentello both are options at quarterback to replace Godfrey, who completed 97 of 184 passes for 1,360 yards with 11 touchdowns and six interceptions and rushed for five scores.

The Stallions lost their No.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 ...................at Watterson Sept. 4............at Mansfield Senior *Sept. 11......................vs. Hartley *Sept. 18 .................vs. Watterson *Sept. 25................vs. St. Charles *Oct. 2 ..........................at Hartley 2019 RESULTS (9-3 overall, 2-1 CCL) Dayton Carroll ................W, 35-28 Dublin Jerome ................L, 45-14 Chardon Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin .....................................W, 36-21 Kettering Alter ................W, 35-31 Middletown Fenwick ......W, 42-22 *Watterson.....................W, 20-16 Dayton Belmont ...............W, 28-7 *St. Charles....................W, 26-14 Steubenville ...................W, 30-18

1 receiver in Owen Faulkner, who finished with 40 receptions for 481 yards and two touchdowns.

Seniors Nathan Barber and Jordan Johnson figure to be the top wide receivers, but senior Ryan McCann and jun-

*Hartley ..........................L, 20-13 PLAYOFFS Cincinnati Turpin ............W, 27-13 Harrison............................L, 42-7 *League contest INSIDE THE STALLIONS •Coach: Ryan Wiggins, 14th season •Top players: Nathan Barber (WR/DB), Billy Cain IV (OL/DL), Jordan Johnson (WR/DB), Jackson Hartman (OL/DL), Joshua Martin-Hayden (DL/OL), Quintell Quinn (RB/LB), Matthew Stewart (TE/DL/LS), Jonathan Thompson (RB/LB) and Jason Velazquez II (WR/LB) •Key losses: Jaylen Ball, Owen Faulkner, Reno Godfrey, Cole Potts, Frank Sciarroni, Randy Tawiah, Isaiah Thomas and Mason Washington

iors Kyle Nicely and Rechee Smith also should see time at that spot.

Returning as starters up front are senior Owen Kirk at center and Will Hast at tackle.

Senior Billy Cain IV also

was a key player on the offensive line.

“We’ve got to figure out offensively exactly what we want to be from a philosophy standpoint,” Wiggins said. “I like to have a physical run game. It can be out of the gun.

I like to be able to take what they can give us with play action and I like to be stout on defense. Sometimes your players dictate what you’re going to do or not do.”

DEFENSE

Quinn and Velazquez will anchor the Stallions at linebacker after starting last season.

Quinn finished with 90 tackles and two interceptions and was first-team all-district and first-team all-league on offense, and Velazquez was second-team all-league.

Thompson is another returnee at linebacker and senior Matthew Stewart ia

Offense Quarterbacks: Whit Hobgood (jr., 6-3, 205), Nicky Pentello (so., 5-9, 170) Running backs: *Quintell Quinn (sr., 6-1, 220), *Jonathan Thompson (jr., 61, 210), Nasir Phillips (fr., 56, 185) Wide receivers: *Nathan Barber (sr., 6-0, 185), *Jordan Johnson (sr., 6-0, 185), Ryan McCann (sr., 6-4, 195), Kyle Nicely (jr., 5-8, 155), Rechee Smith (jr., 5-10, 180) Linemen: *Billy Cain IV (sr., 6-1, 250), *Jackson Hartman (sr., 5-10, 240), *Will Hast (sr., 5-4, 230), *Owen Kirk (sr., 5-10, 220), Brady Ayers (jr., 6-1, 240), Jalen Carpenter (jr., 6-3, 230), Joseph Schaefer (jr., 6-5, 300) Defense Linemen: *Cain, *Matthew Stewart (sr., 6-2, 185), Hartman, Joshua Martin-Hayden (sr., 6-4, 270) L inebackers: *Quinn, *Thompson, *Jason Velazquez II (sr, 5-10, 205), Max Shulaw (fr., 6-0, 200) S econdary: *Johnson, Jackson Carawan (jr., 5-9, 160), Ayan Comedy (jr., 59, 160), Pentello, Smith Special teams Kicker: *J.J. Baughman (sr., 6-2, 215) Punter: *Nathaniel Wallace-Dilling (jr., 6-1, 170) Returners: *Johnson, *Quinn Long snapper: *Stewart (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

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DeSales

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38

C ENTRAL C ATHOLIC L EAGUE

Watterson

Experienced Eagles poised for big year

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM With nearly all of its key players back from a team that went 7-3 last year, Watterson entered the season with much to be excited about.

The uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic didn’t dampen how players including senior quarterback Jake Hoying feel about the prospects for their season.

“We’re really just making the most out of every day,” Hoying said.

“We’ve taken advantage of every practice we can. We only have six games this year, so we’re really not looking to waste a week.

“Football’s been really nice because it was so boring before when you couldn’t do anything. Some people dread two-a-days, but coming to practice has been kind of like the highlight of the day so far every day for me.”

According to fourth-year coach Brian Kennedy, the Eagles have 12 players who will be in their third seasons as starters.

Among those is Hoying, who started seven games as a sophomore before going down with a seasonending injury and then helped the Eagles improve from 5-5 in 2018 to 7-3 last fall.

They placed third at 1-2 in the league behind Hartley (3-0) and DeSales (2-1) and ahead of St. Charles (0-3), which is opening the season later than other CCL teams.

Watterson won its first four games before losing back-to-back to eventual playoff qualifiers Dayton Chaminade Julienne (28-7) and DeSales (20-16), then closed with victories in three of its final four contests.

After finishing 11th in Division III, Region 11, the Eagles’ only nonleague contest is Sept. 11 at Teays Valley, a Division II program which also went 7-3 last season.

Kennedy believes his program will be ready for the playoffs which are set to start Oct. 9 after playing a home-and-home series against Hartley and DeSales and a home game against St. Charles on Oct. 2 to close the regular season.

“We have a lot of seniors and a lot of guys that have played a lot of Friday nights, so we feel good,” Kennedy said.

“The kids when we first came out in June were just happy to be doing stuff. Then as things got going, with the Big Ten canceling (fall sports), there’s been some anxiety with the kids. We tell them every day, we’ve got today and this is our opportunity.

Any day I’m out there with them is a good day.”

OFFENSE

Hoying is one of the area’s top returning quarterbacks after completing 181 of 320 passes for 2,056 yards with 13 touchdowns while also rushing for two scores, and all of his top targets have returned.

Senior wide receiver Andrew Bettendorf had 39 receptions for 536 yards and three touchdowns, senior wide receiver Tyler Young had 39 catches for 529 yards and one touchdown and senior tight end Davis

Davis Boone, a senior tight end, had 37 receptions for 455 yards and six touchdowns last year, when the Eagles finished 7-3.

LORRIE CECIL/THISWEEK

Boone added 37 catches for 455 yards and six scores.

Senior Sam Intihar (14 receptions) and sophomore Brandon Trout (12 receptions) also are back.

Senior Cam Nickleson rushed for 192 yards and one touchdown on 26 carries over the first five games a year ago but was not eligible for the second half of the season because of the OHSAA transfer rule.

Junior Brady White is at center, with seniors Alex Altier, Patrick Jesse and Nick Youell all expected to be regulars on the line. Senior Charlie McAdow, junior Collin Cassidy and sophomore Cole Rhett also are in the mix.

“We didn’t see these kids for three months during the quarantine and some of them did nothing, some did a little bit and some went above and beyond,” Kennedy said. “Jake Hoying went above and beyond. He’s completely changed his physique and just looks physically different.

“These kids, with this being my fourth year, have been in the system for four years, so that’s been good.”

DEFENSE

The Eagles also return much of a defense that gave up an average of 23.1 points.

Intihar returns at free safety after finishing with 56.5 tackles and four interceptions, while seniors Henry Blevins, Bettendorf and Young and junior Dom Orsini also are back.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .................................vs. DeSales *Sept. 4 .....................................at Hartley Sept. 11 .............................at Teays Valley *Sept. 18..................................at DeSales *Sept. 25 ..................................vs. Hartley *Oct. 2 ................................vs. St. Charles 2019 RESULTS (7-3 overall, 1-2 CCL) Lancaster ...................................W, 24-22 Maria Stein Marion Local ..............W, 31-7 Cuyahoga Falls Walsh Jesuit .......W, 24-21 Dayton Carroll.............................W, 41-28 Dayton Chaminade Julienne...........L, 28-7 *DeSales .....................................L, 20-16

Young finished with 42 tackles last season.

Sophomore Charlie Bernotas is another expected to play a key role in the secondary.

“We’re real experienced in our back seven,” Kennedy said. “The majority of these guys started or lettered on defense.”

Youell and junior Danny Siegel are at outside linebacker and juniors Anthony DeFilippo and Cole Graney will be at inside linebacker.

Senior nose tackle Tanner Mercer is a returning starter, with seniors Kervin Azor and McAdow and juniors Matthew Heidenreich and Kevin Hinsman also on the line.

The biggest losses on defense were on the line where 2020 graduate Mason Graney (11.5 sacks) led the way.

Youngstown Ursuline...................W, 35-34 *Hartley.........................................L, 39-0 Dayton Dunbar ...........................W, 31-29 *St. Charles ..................................W, 17-3 *League contest INSIDE THE EAGLES •Coach: Brian Kennedy, fourth season •Top players: Andrew Bettendorf (WR/DB), Henry Blevins (WR/DB), Davis Boone (TE/ LB), Jake Hoying (QB), Sam Intihar (WR/DB), Cam Nickleson (RB/DB), Dom Orsini (DB), Nick Youell (OL/LB) and Tyler Young (WR/DB) •Key losses: Tommy Bair, Chris Crane, Jonah Fortkamp, Mason Graney and Evan Siegel

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Carson Blank is taking over as the kicker and punter after handling those duties at the junior varsity level last season. He replaces 2020 graduate Jonah Fortkamp, who made seven of nine field goals and 25 extra points.

“We’re going to miss Jonah, but Carson has done a good job and works really hard,” Kennedy said.

Intihar and Young are returning kickoff and punt returners and they’ll be joined in that area by Nickleson.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jake Hoying (sr., 6-2, 195), Ryan Rudzinski (so., 6-0, 162) Running backs: *Sam Intihar (sr.,

6-0, 168), *Cam Nickleson (sr., 60, 201), Treyton Mercer (fr., 5-11, 171) Receivers: *Andrew Bettendorf (sr., 6-1, 185), *Tyler Young (sr., 60, 171), Brandon Trout (so., 6-0, 168) Tight end: *Davis Boone (sr., 63, 225) Linemen: *Alex Altier (sr., 6-1, 235), *Patrick Jesse (sr., 6-1, 200), *Brady White (jr., 6-0, 188), *Nick Youell (sr. 6-1, 210), Collin Cassidy (jr., 6-2, 215), Charlie McAdow (sr., 6-1, 240), Cole Rhett (so., 6-5, 240) Defense Linemen: *Tanner Mercer (sr., 60, 192), Kervin Azor (sr., 6-0, 191), Matthew Heidenreich (jr., 5-11, 191), Kevin Hinsman (jr., 6-0, 208), McAdow Linebackers: *Anthony DeFilippo (jr., 6-1, 190), Cole Graney (jr., 61, 212), Danny Siegel (jr., 5-10, 175), Youell Secondary: *Charlie Bernotas (so., 5-10, 163), *Henry Blevins (sr., 60, 182), *Intihar, *Dom Orsini (jr., 6-0, 179), Bettendorf, Young Special teams Kicker: *Carson Blank (sr., 6-0, 170) Punter: *Blank Returners: *Nickleson, *Young, Intihar Long snapper: *White (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

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Success hinges on health, depth

By DAVE PURPURA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Bexley quarterback Tommy Bloebaum throws a pass to Grant Sheridan last season. Bloebaum, who also will start in the secondary, missed most of last season with a knee injury. KEVIN LAM/THISWEEK

Bexley

Lions’ leadership impresses Golden

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM As an offseason of uncertainty became a preseason of uncertainty, Bexley relied on a strong stable of seniors to lead the younger players through trying times.

Second-year coach Mike Golden has a combined 18 starters back between both sides of the ball but uncertain depth, as the Lions were unable to have hitting in practice before Aug. 27.

Those preseason limitations, brought on by COVID-19 coronavirus protocols, forced Bexley to cancel its opener Aug. 28 against MSL-Ohio Division rival Grandview.

“We’re really searching for an identity as a team, and every day is something different," said Golden, whose team finished 3-7 overall and 2-4 in the league last season.

“We’re always wondering if we’re going to be here tomorrow. Each district has to make a decision and I can’t guarantee anything.

“The fortunate thing is that we have a lot of experienced kids back. We have had great, great leadership from our seniors through this. That’s good because this kind of thing can get away from you quickly.

I’m proud of the way they have handled things.”

Senior running back/linebacker Grant Sheridan returns after receiving honorable mention all-league honors last year.

He led the Lions with 78 tackles and rushed for 107 yards on 21 carries.

“We have been keeping the

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Sept. 4................at Liberty Union *Sept. 11..........vs. Buckeye Valley *Sept. 17....at Columbus Academy *Sept. 25 ..............at Harvest Prep Oct. 2............................vs. Ready 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 2-4 MSL-Ohio) Waynesville.......................L, 42-7 Campbell Memorial ..........W, 13-6 Hamilton Township............L, 28-7 *Grandview.....................L, 31-10 *Liberty Union ................W, 21-12 *Buckeye Valley..............W, 24-13 *Whitehall.......................L, 48-27 *Harvest Prep ...................L, 33-0 Ready.............................L, 35-14

younger guys updated with what they need to know and let them know that this (team) is a family,” he said. “We all have the same goal of wanting to have a successful season.”

Senior quarterback/defensive back Tommy Bloebaum started the first four games last fall before suffering a seasonending right knee injury. He knows the importance of being a leader for the younger players during unpredictable times.

“There is a lot of uncertainty and everything, but we keep coming out and going at it day to day,” said Bloebaum, who was 14-for-38 passing for 101 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. “It’s weird this year being a senior and a leader at a time like this. We have to set a good example by showing up and doing the right thing and showing the younger guys how to do things.”

Senior Phillip Martin (honorable mention all-league) is in his second season starting

*Columbus Academy .........L, 41-0 *League contest INSIDE THE LIONS •Coach: Mike Golden, second season •Top players: Michael Agriesti (WR/DB),Tommy Bloebaum (QB/DB), Calvin Burzynski (LB), Joe Callaghan (OL/DL), Noah Lyons (RB/LB), Phillip Martin (OL/DL), Sam Powers (K), Grant Sheridan (RB/LB) and Jon Spiess (QB/DB) •Key losses: Patrick Beck, Carter Brenner, Ethan Fosnaugh, Jevin Gutter, Justin Mauk, Troy Redmond and Luke Robinson

as a two-way lineman. He said staying safe was one of the most important drills of the preseason.

“Coach Golden has been stressing not only coming to practice ready to work hard but also following the safety protocols like wearing your mask and social distancing just to ensure the health of the whole team and the coaches,” Martin said. “We have had to make sure the underclassmen give a great effort at practice because we need it now more than ever with COVID going around. We need everyone working hard because of everything we are going through.”

OFFENSE

Golden refers to Lions’ offense as having “wing-T concepts that feature both I and shotgun formations.”

Bexley has nine returning starters, including two at quarterback in Bloebaum and sophomore Jon Spiess, who

took over after Bloebaum was hurt. Spiess was 15-for-44 passing for 191 yards with one touchdown and one interception and two rushing scores.

“It’s all love between me and him and there are no hard feelings,” Bloebaum said. “At the end of the day, whoever is best for the team is going to play, and that’s what I want.

“I want what’s best for the team to win. It’s good to push one another. I know he definitely makes me work harder and I make him work harder, so it’s good.”

Adding to the quarterback mix is senior Will Cordle, who has returned to Bexley after moving to Texas.

“All three have been getting reps early and have been looking good,” Golden said.

Sheridan returns in the backfield along with junior Noah Lyons, who rushed for 108 yards on 27 carries a year ago. Senior Michael Agriesti (second-team all-league) was the team’s top receiver with nine receptions for 107 yards and one score, and senior Ethan Beckman also was a starting receiver.

Three players return on the line in Martin at tackle, junior tackle Owen Gunther and senior Joe Callaghan, who has moved from guard to center.

“I feel like we are able to connect more and encourage each other in the preseason,” Martin said. “We have been able to work hard and show the underclassmen what kind of effort is needed and what it’s like to work together.”

LIONS >> 40

Buckeye Valley coach Matt Stephens hopes this year’s team resembles the Barons from the second half of last year, when despite finishing 1-9 they were more competitive than during a grinding start against larger area rivals and Division VII power Harvest Prep.

The turnout to start the season reminded Stephens of the early part of last year, when the Barons started with 63 players but by Week 10 had dwindled to 33 because of injuries or other factors.

Either way, Stephens is confident that last year’s trials and the return of several players from injuries steeled the team’s resolve.

Buckeye Valley was scheduled to open Aug. 28 with an MSL-Ohio Division game at Harvest Prep and plays its home opener Friday, Sept. 4, against Ready.

“We played a lot of kids who probably should have been (junior varsity) players and were thrust into Friday night action and we did not have a good year,” said Stephens, who is in his seventh season. “However, those guys got a lot of snaps and they had that taste in their mouth during the course of the offseason when it came to trying to change the course of what happened to them a year ago.

“We’re going to be a better team, a more competitive team and deeper. I am really pleased with where we are right now. I think there is just a different atmosphere around the program right now. It’s been nice.”

All-around threat Andre Ash hopes to build on a junior season in which he rushed for 725 yards and five touchdowns on 130 carries, caught 21 passes for 181 yards and five scores and has bulked up to 6-feet and 220 pounds while squatting 545 pounds. He will be at fullback as well as a starting linebacker and punter.

Senior tight end/linebacker Will Weinberg returns after missing eight games because of injury. Two senior two-way linemen, Keegan Allen and Fletcher Holquist, also missed most or all of last season with shoulder injuries.

Buckeye Valley was outscored by an average of 34.6-15.4 last year and scored six points or fewer four times, but three of its final six games were decided by 11 points or

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 ...........at Harvest Prep *Sept. 4 .....................vs. Ready *Sept. 11....................at Bexley *Sept. 18...............vs. Whitehall *Sept. 25.............vs. Grandview *Oct. 2..............at Liberty Union 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 1-6 MSL-Ohio) Delaware ......................L, 35-0 Big Walnut...................L, 48-20 Mount Vernon................L, 43-9 *Harvest Prep................L, 40-3 *Ready........................L, 28-21 *Bexley .......................L, 24-13 *Columbus Academy .....L, 49-6 *Grandview Heights.......L, 14-3 *Liberty Union.............W, 49-25 *Whitehall ...................L, 40-30 *League contest INSIDE THE BARONS •Coach: Matt Stephens, seventh season •Top players: Keegan Allen (OL/DL), Andre Ash (RB/WR/LB), Alex Contreras (WR/DB/P), Dalton Dodds (WR/DB), Fletcher Holquist (OL/DL/LB), Anthony Hughes (QB/DB), Carson Vaulx (LB) and Will Weinberg (TE/LB) •Key losses: Andy Anthony, Nick Fein, Ed Reely and Scott Steck

under.

The Barons miss only Columbus Academy in league play and did not open against Delaware for the first time since 2007. Because of this year’s shortened regular season, all of Buckeye Valley’s games are within the MSLOhio.

OFFENSE

Stephens expects another formidable performance from Ash, a three-year starter whose varsity career began at slot receiver.

“I hope he’s the kind of back where he starts wearing defenses out. He’s not a superfast kid but he’s a banger,” Stephens said. “At 220 pounds, there are some (opposing) kids out there who have to make a business decision as to when they want to throw their body into a guy that big.

“If he can stay healthy, he will be an integral part of what we want to do on both sides of the ball and on special teams.”

Ash and junior tailback Jake Smothers, as well as senior wide receiver Cam McComis and junior receivers Alex Contreras and Dalton Dodds, will work behind a line led by Allen and classmates Mason Hatcher, Holquist and Zane Skinner. Skinner is 6-1, 305 pounds, Allen is 6-1, 300 and Hatcher stands 6-4, 275.

BARONS >> 51

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Columbus Academy

Coach loves Vikings’ attitude, determination

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM As area programs dealt with the ramifications of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, Columbus Academy stuck to its preseason plan, hoping for a chance to play.

The Vikings’ six-game regular season began Aug. 28 with an MSL-Ohio Division contest at Whitehall.

“All the kids wanted and all the coaches wanted is just a chance to compete,” sixthyear coach Robin Miller said.

“We’ve been working so hard for so long, and not knowing if they’ll even have a tomorrow, let alone a season. They continued to show up with great attitudes, were coachable and they just want to compete. It doesn’t matter who, it doesn’t matter where. They just want to play.”

The Vikings are hoping to contend for the league title after finishing second (5-1) last season behind Harvest Prep (6-0).

The teams meet Friday, Sept. 4, at Academy.

Academy lost to AmandaClearcreek 41-10 in the first round of last year’s Division V, Region 19 playoffs.

This year, with the shortened regular season, all teams are eligible to participate in the playoffs.

Miller hopes his team will advance further.

“It’s great that the football playoffs is something to be earned and getting a chance at the playoffs is a huge honor, but this year all bets are off,” he said.

He also believes the Vikings have the depth they need to take the next step.

“We have more depth than we ever have in our six years here, and that’s a tribute to the kids for really learning their craft and challenging themselves,” Miller said. “Mentally, we’re further ahead than we’ve ever been. The kids have worked hard to try to get a grasp of what we’re trying to do.”

A key contributor should be senior quarterback Brady Hess, who last season completed 109 of 194 passes for

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28.....................at Whitehall *Sept. 4...............vs. Harvest Prep Sept. 11 ........................vs. Ready at Fortress Obetz *Sept. 17 ......................vs. Bexley *Sept. 25 ............vs. Liberty Union *Oct. 2 .....................at Grandview 2019 RESULTS (7-4 overall, 5-1 in MSL-Ohio) Cincinnati Wyoming...........L, 40-7 Newark Catholic.............W, 21-13 London .............................L, 48-7 *Whitehall ......................W, 38-24 *Harvest Prep..................L, 45-24 Ready ............................W, 35-14 *Buckeye Valley................W, 49-6

Gorospe at right guard, senior Miles Walter at left guard, senior Daniel Farber at right tackle and junior Gyvnn Mendenhall at left tackle.

Senior Ethan Stahl also should contribute.

Academy must replace 2020 graduate Philip Soderberg, who was first-team alldistrict and all-league and special mention all-state last season.

DEFENSE

Junior Carter James expects to have an expanded role after rushing for a team-high 552 yards and six touchdowns last season.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

1,353 yards with 17 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was named first-team all-league and special/honorable mention all-district.

It’s an opportunity like no other,” Hess said. “With some schools being canceled already and others pushing it back, we’re really lucky to be out here.”

OFFENSE

Hess was expected to start at quarterback, but he received a challenge from junior Henry Rubey in the preseason.

“Henry has really blossomed,” Miller said. “We have two varsity quarterbacks

that we’re happy about. Competition is good for everyone.

Brady is a third-year starter, so it’s OK to have a little nudge, have a little push.

They both make each other better.”

Junior Carter James should be a featured tailback after rushing for a team-high 552 yards and six touchdowns on 107 carries last season. He was honorable mention allleague.

Senior Matthew Derzon and junior Parker Logan also will see time at running back.

The Vikings are looking to replace their top receiver from last season in Carter Warstler, who had 54 catches for 611

yards and nine touchdowns and rushed 324 yards and three scores on 37 carries. He shared MSL-Ohio Back of the Year honors with Grandview’s Luke Lachey and was first-team all-state and alldistrict.

Seniors Vaughn Armour, Sam Huyghe, Graham Mallory and Durell Moultrie and junior Jake Carlin are key receivers.

Senior Robert Mills will play tight end. He was second-team all-league and honorable/special mention all-district last season.

The offensive line will feature sophomore Miles Friedman at center, senior Keir

Bloebaum and senior Tom Brown.

season.

The defensive line should be led by Mendenhall at end after he was first-team all-district and all-league and second-team all-state last season.

Mills is another defensive end, with junior Matthew Comisar at nose guard.

Derzon, Logan, Walter and senior Chris Sugar lead a linebacking corps that also includes Armour, Gorospe and sophomore Jake Colodney.

The secondary features Huyghe and Mallory at cornerback, Moultrie at free safety and Carlin at strong safety.

Other defensive backs are James, senior Manny Eribo and sophomore E.J. Jenkins.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Academy has a big void to fill on special teams with the graduation of kicker and punter Sam Massick, who was first-team all-state, all-district and all-league last season.

Senior Jonah Houston will take over both assignments.

Huyghe, James and Jenkins are top return threats, and Logan and Mills are long snappers.

*Liberty Union ................W, 45-21 *Grandview ......................W, 28-7 *Bexley ............................W, 41-0 PLAYOFFS Amanda-Clearcreek ........L, 41-10 *League contest INSIDE THE VIKINGS •Coach: Robin Miller, sixth season •Top players: Keir Gorospe (OL/LB), Brady Hess (QB/LB), Carter James (RB/DB), Gyvnn Mendenhall (OL/DL), Chris Sugar (RB/DL) and Miles Walter (OL/DL) •Key losses: Max Brown, Sam Massick, Donovan Simpson, Philip Soderberg, Andrew Swartz and Carter Warstler

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Brady Hess Quar (sr., 6-0, 170), Henry Rubey (jr., 5-9, 140) Running backs: *Carter James (jr., 5-11, 190), Jake Calodney (so., 5-11, 185), Matthew Derzon (sr., 5-10, 170), Parker Logan (jr., 6-0, 190) Receivers: *Sam Huyghe (sr., 6-0, 170), *Graham Mallory (sr., 6-0, 170), *Durell Moultrie (sr., 5-11, 185), Jake Carlin (so., 5-9, 150) Tight end: *Robert Mills (sr., 6-0, 200) Linemen: *Daniel Farber (sr., 6-3, 215), *Miles Friedman (so., 5-11, 230), *Keir Gorospe (sr., 5-10, 165), *Gyvnn Mendenhall (jr., 6-2, 215), *Miles Walter (sr., 6-1, 200), Ethan Stahl (sr., 6-0, 220) Defense Linemen: *Matthew Comisar (jr., 5-11, 190), *Mendenhall, *Mills Linebackers: *Derzon, *Logan, *Chris Sugar (sr., 510, 155), *Walter, Armour, Calodney, Gorospe Secondary: *Carlin, *Huyghe, *James, *Mallory, *Moultrie, Manny Eribo (sr., 5-11, 155), E.J. Jenkins (so., 5-9, 145) Special teams Kicker: *Jonah Houston (sr., 5-10, 170) Punter: *Houston Returners: Huyghe, James, Jenkins Long snappers: Logan, Mills (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

LIONS

FROM >> 39

DEFENSE

The Lions’ 4-3 scheme has nine starters back, including three up front, where Gunther and Martin will be joined by junior Kaelen Mathews. Junior Tommy Webster also expects to be a key contributor.

Junior Calvin Burzynski (41 tackles), Lyons (38 tackles) and Sheridan return to start at linebacker.

“We have a lot of returning players on defense, and we’ll know what to look for,” Sheridan said.

“Coach Golden has stressed being optimistic and making sure we get our work in to be ready for the season. We need to get stronger, faster and tougher.”

Agriesti had 28 tackles and a team-high four interceptions last year to lead the secondary returnees, who also include

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Sam Powers is back at kicker after going 14-for16 on extra points and 2-for2 on field goals.

Spiess will handle the punting duties.

Agriesti, Brown and Lyons will return kicks.

The long snapper had yet to be selected late in the pre-

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Tommy Bloebaum (sr., 6-1, 180), Will Cordle (sr., 6-0, 180), Jon Spiess (so., 5-9, 170) Running backs: Tom Brown (sr., 5-8, 170), Noah Lyons (jr., 5-11, 185), Grant Sheridan (sr., 5-11, 180) Receivers: *Michael Agriesti (jr., 6-0, 155), Ethan Beck-

man (sr., 6-0, 160) Tight end: *Kaelen Mathews (jr., 6-4, 205) Linemen: *Joe Callaghan (sr., 5-11, 250), *Owen Gunther (jr., 6-2, 225), *Phillip Martin (sr., 6-2, 225), Calvin Burzynski (jr., 5-10, 212), Tommy Webster (jr., 6-0, 220) Defense Linemen: *Gunther, *Martin, *Mathews, *Webster Linebackers: *Burzynski, *Lyons, *Sheridan

Secondary: *Agriesti, *Bloebaum, *Brown Special teams Kicker: *Sam Powers (jr., 5-8, 155) Punters: *Spiess Returners: Agriesti, Brown, Lyons Long snappers: To be determined (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

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Bobcats need new leaders to emerge

By SCOTT HENNEN THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Melvin Scott, a junior, will take over as the starting quarterback after the graduation of Ni’Kai Cameron.

JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

Whitehall-Yearling

Rams facing challenges

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Having lost several players to graduation, Whitehall-Yearling coach Rod Lightfoot entered the preseason hoping to provide guidance and experience for his first-time varsity players.

Instead, the team’s preseason was delayed because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

The Rams were forced to train in Phase 1 of the workout protocols for most of the preseason based on a recommendation from Franklin County Public Health.

Despite the limited time to prepare, Lightfoot is confident his team will respond.

“Obviously, there’s some tremendous challenges for us this year,” said Lightfoot, who is in his sixth season.

“Being as young as we are, the unknown is how these young kids are going to react on a Friday night under the lights. It’s a totally different atmosphere than a Saturday morning and that’s what most of these guys are familiar with.”

Whitehall opened the season and MSL-Ohio Division play Aug. 28 against Columbus Academy and visits Grandview on Friday, Sept.

4, for another league contest.

Last season, the Rams went 6-4 overall and finished third (4-2) in the league behind Harvest Prep (6-0) and Academy (5-1).

“I like the idea that if we’re going to have a shortened schedule that we’re going to stay within our conference,” Lightfoot said. “This year, anybody in our league could

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 ...vs. Columbus Academy *Sept. 4 ...................at Grandview *Sept. 11 ............vs. Liberty Union *Sept. 18 ...........at Buckeye Valley Sept. 24...Ready at Fortress Obetz *Oct 2 .................vs. Harvest Prep 2019 RESULTS (6-4 overall, 4-2 MSL-Ohio) Westerville Central ............L, 63-6 Northland.........................W, 44-7 Dublin Scioto ..................L, 49-14 *Columbus Academy .......L, 38-24 *Grandview ....................W, 60-13 *Liberty Union ................W, 20-14 *Bexley ..........................W, 48-27 Ready ............................W, 20-10

win (the title). Academy is going to be tough. Harvest Prep is going to be tough.

Anybody can beat anybody in this league on a given Friday. It’s wide open.”

A key returnee is senior tight end/defensive lineman Da’Leon Jackson, who has aspirations of playing collegiately. “(The coaches) are always telling me I have the potential to go (Division I in college),” Jackson said. “I’ve been listening to see what I have to do on the field.”

The Rams must replace 2020 graduate Melvin Tinsley, a linebacker who led the team in tackles with 105 and had two interceptions. He was first-team all-state in Division II along with first-team alldistrict and all-league.

Also gone is quarterback Ni’Kai Cameron, who completed 120 of 204 passes for 1,881 yards with 21 touchdowns and rushed for 338 yards and three scores on 117 carries. He was first-team alldistrict and all-league and third-team all-state.

*Harvest Prep..................L, 29-27 *Buckeye Valley..............W, 40-30 *League contest INSIDE THE RAMS •Coach: Rod Lightfoot, sixth season •Top players: Taron Biles-Walker (WR/DB), Noah Church (OL/DL), Jarell Hazziez (OL/DL), Dauvion Henderson (RB/LB), Da’Leon Jackson (TE/DL),Termir Mosley-Allen (TE/DL), Melvin Scott (QB, Jalen Townsend (WR/DB) and David Winegarner (OL/DL/LS) •Key losses: Juvaun Blackshear, Ni’Kai Cameron, Stephaun Ellis, Christian Gordon, Melvin Tinsley and LaVon Williams

Another graduate, Christian Gordon, had a team-high 52 receptions for 907 yards and 15 touchdowns and added 202 yards rushing and one score on 41 carries. He was first-team all-district and second-team all-state and allleague.

“We have great numbers,” Lightfoot said. “We knew that our (eight-player) senior class was going to be kind of small, but we have some seniors that are working hard and they’re going to assume that leadership role as all seniors do in our program.”

OFFENSE

Junior Melvin Scott will direct the team’s spread offense as Cameron’s replacement at quarterback.

“He’s a little undersized, but he has a decent arm and he has great feet, so he fits right in to what we do offensively,” Lightfoot said.

Junior Dorrin Mixon should start at tailback, with junior Jeremiah Harrison also seeing time.

A key contributor at receiver should be junior Taron Biles-Walker, who saw some playing time last season.

“I feel like it could be a good year for me,” he said. “I just want to play. I don’t care how many games we have. ...

We’re pretty close. We have to take every game one at a time and just worry about the week that we have.”

The lone returning starter on the line is sophomore Jarell Hazziez, who underwent knee surgery in the offseason.

“We’ll get him back in the fold, but we don’t know at what point so we’re hoping,” Lightfoot said.

Senior David Winegarner also returns. Other key linemen are junior Noah Church and sophomores Brenden Cockrell, Paul Fetheroff and Steven Grant.

“We’re going to be really young up front,” Lightfoot said. “It starts up front, but we’re going to have a lot of sophomores who are going to be filling in those vacant spots up front.”

Grandview Heights will have a new look after qualifying for the Division VI playoffs the past two seasons.

Gone are 10 players who left their marks on the program, including a pair of firstteam all-state performers in wide receiver Luke Lachey and defensive lineman Joey Bertani. Lachey was slated to play at Iowa this fall, and Bertani was to play at Ashland.

That has left the Bobcats with an inexperienced lineup as they try to improve on a finish of 7-5 overall and 3-3 in the MSL-Ohio Division.

“We have been blessed with some senior classes around here,” 14th-year coach Jason Peters said. “These kids have done a great job of leading us and they have an idea of what it takes to be a winner. It will be interesting to see how things look moving forward.”

The Bobcats have only five starters back on offense and five on defense.

Senior offensive lineman Matthew Taylor said that the seven seniors on the roster were handed the perfect road map for success.

“Being a senior this year, we had great leaders last year that set an example for us in terms of what a team can do in crunch time,” said Taylor, a second-team all-league performer last fall who also plays linebacker. “They set a very strong example that we need to be ready to be there for the younger guys.”

Connor McCormick won’t leave the field much for the Bobcats. The junior plays in the slot on offense, in the defensive backfield and handles punting duties.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Sept. 4.................vs. Whitehall *Sept. 11 .........vs. Harvest Prep *Sept. 18 ..........at Liberty Union *Sept. 25 .......at Buckeye Valley *Oct. 2 ..vs. Columbus Academy 2019 RESULTS (7-5 overall, 3-3 MSL-Ohio) Centennial..................W, 21-20 Africentric ..................W, 42-24 Bucyrus........................W, 29-0 *Bexley ......................W, 31-10 *Whitehall ...................L, 60-13 *Harvest Prep................L, 42-7 *Liberty Union.............W, 20-13 *Buckeye Valley............W, 14-3 *Columbus Academy .....L, 28-7 Ready .........................L, 27-14 PLAYOFFS Paint Valley.................W, 35-28 Mechanicsburg .............L, 48-7 *League contest INSIDE THE BOBCATS •Coach: Jason Peters, 14th season •Top players: Cory Culp (RB/LB), Connor Dobies (OL/LB), Gabhran Downer (OL/DL), Ian Gecse (TE/DL), Connor McCormick (RB/DB/P), Tristin Pierce (RB/DB), Matthew Taylor (OL/DL) and Jake Zimmerman (OL/DL) •Key losses: Joey Bertani, Kyle Casey, Trey Cook, Glenn Cribbs, Darreion Davis, Hallie Georskey, Kaden Harris, Charlie James, Luke Lachey and Alfie Sterneker

“Last year’s seniors taught me a lot,” he said. “I think what they taught me the most was how to put the work in and hit the ground prepared every day. We have to stay focused and be prepared on the mental side of things.”

The preseason limitations from the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic have been especially difficult for a young team trying to find its identity. Sophomore Tristin Pierce said the Bobcats were working to overcome those obstacles.

BOBCATS >> 47

DEFENSE

Jackson should help lead the base 3-4 defense at end after finishing last season with 62 tackles, seven sacks, six fumble recoveries and an interception. He was second-team all-league.

Senior Tamir Mosley-Allen will be at the other end.

“Both did a great job for us last year,” Lightfoot said.

“They’re going to anchor our defense on the outside.”

Lightfoot said senior Jeremiah Nimmons had a solid

RAMS >> 54

Coach Jason Peters instructs the team on return drills as Maddox Baker looks on during practice Aug. 20.

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Grandview Heights

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Harvest Prep

Warriors up for challenge of new division

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Making the best of a challenging situation helped Harvest Prep reach new heights last season.

Despite injuries that forced them to turn to their No. 4 quarterback at one point, the Warriors were leading Lucas midway through the fourth quarter of their Division VII state semifinal before falling 15-12 to finish 12-2 overall.

Harvest Prep’s newest test includes adapting to the cancellation of non-league games against Lucas as well as Division III power Hartley and one of the City League’s perennially strongest teams in Eastmoor Academy because of the OHSAA’s decision Aug. 7 to go to a six-game regular-season schedule.

Coach Milan Smith viewed those matchups as opportunities to build his program for what he hopes will become a seventh consecutive playoff appearance in October.

In addition, the Warriors have jumped up two divisions because of competitive balance and will compete in Division V despite having the lowest number of boys in their building of any team that will compete in that division.

Harvest Prep won the MSLOhio Division at 5-0 last season despite being the league’s smallest school and is playing an all-league schedule as well as a contest Sept. 18 against Ready, which is an auxiliary member of the MSL. “I believe that we’ll be able to find a way to make a shorter season work,” senior Phillip Gibson-Perry said. “I just hope the playoffs aren’t cut short

At a glance

Senior Josiah Carroll will start in the secondary while also seeing time at quarterback for the Warriors, who have moved up to Division V from Division VII. JOHN HULKENBERG/THISWEEK

due to COVID-19 worsening or anything like that. This team is very motivated after what happened last year.

“We’re a very talented team and we really believe we have what it takes to win it all. We know if we’re going to win states, this is the year to do it because this is our senior year and last year playing on Friday nights.”

Harvest Prep, which opened Aug. 28 at home against Buckeye Valley, had only four seniors among its starters during

the state semifinal.

Gibson-Perry, who was the district’s Defensive Player of the Year at linebacker and firstteam all-state as the Warriors went 12-2 overall, anchors a larger and more experienced senior class than last fall’s group.

“We’re a good football team and as good as I think we are, it may not be smooth but we’ll put ourselves in a position to be competitive,” Smith said.

“We traditionally spend a lot of time in the weight room, so

we’ve missed doing a lot of the lifting, but we were able to install a lot of football in smallgroup pods. We had a tough (non-league) schedule that we were looking forward to playing.”

OFFENSE

Sophomore Aden Rogers was expected to get many of the snaps at quarterback heading into Harvest Prep’s opener, but the Warriors have other options at that position.

Senior Terrence Kee entered

the season as the No. 2 quarterback and senior Josiah Carroll and junior Jaylen Jennings also have experience.

Jennings is the least likely to see time at quarterback since he is expected to get many of the carries at tailback for an offense that has featured a strong rushing attack since Smith took over in 2014. Jennings was first-team all-district last season.

“We’ve got options A, B and C (at quarterback),” Smith said. “Aden will play the most,

2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .......vs. Buckeye Valley *Sept. 4..at Columbus Academy *Sept. 11..............at Grandview Sept. 18.....................vs. Ready *Sept. 25...................vs. Bexley *Oct. 2....................at Whitehall 2019 RESULTS (12-2 overall, 5-0 MSL-Cardinal) Eastmoor Academy......L, 13-12 Franklin Heights..........W, 42-12 Mifflin ..........................W, 30-0 *Buckeye Valley............W, 40-3 *Columbus Academy.. W, 45-24 *Grandview ..................W, 42-7 Ready .................W, 21-15 (OT) *Bexley ........................W, 33-0 *Whitehall ..................W, 29-27 *Liberty Union.............W, 21-14 PLAYOFFS Fisher Catholic..............W, 37-7 Waterford ...................W, 35-21 Newark Catholic .........W, 22-15 Lucas..........................L, 15-12 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS •Coach: Milan Smith, seventh season •Top players: Josiah Carroll (DB/QB/K), Jalen Davis (WR/DL), Phillip Gibson-Perry (RB/LB), Rashaun Goines (WR/DB), Jaylen Jennings (RB), Terrence Kee (QB/LB), Patrick Moore Graves (OL/LS), Manny Mullens (TE/DL) and Aden Rogers (QB) •Key losses: Desean Bonte, Esco Davis, Javon Eggert, Khelin Jackson, Langston Perry and Elijah Rogers

but they’ll all play. Terrence Kee was the starter some last year and he’ll be right in the thick of things and will play a lot, as will Josiah Carroll.”

Harvest Prep will look to replace the production lost by the graduation of Javon Eggert, who rushed for more than 1,500 yards.

At 6-foot, 215 pounds, Gib-

WARRIORS >> 51

Ready

Knights bring maturity to field

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

Darius Parham returns for his senior season after rushing for 711 yards and nine touchdowns and throwing for 644 yards and five touchdowns last season. ALEX CONRATH/THISWEEK

When Ready wasn’t on the practice field this summer, coaches met regularly with players in Zoom video calls to talk about some of the schemes that would be on the field this fall.

The coaching staff also had plenty of discussions about things that don’t pertain to football during the last few weeks, in anticipation that the sport would be approved to go forward.

“We’re blessed to have a small community of football players and students here, so our protocols have been very manageable and very good,” coach Joel Cutler said. “They’ve been real attentive to detail. We’ve had the picnic and barbeque discussion and grad party discussion (regarding how to stay safe). I’m really fortunate that I think they’re listening and they really want to play, as do we as coaches.”

While making it through the summer was something that senior quarterback

Darius Parham described as “kind of iffy” because of all of the uncertainty, the experience the roster brought into its opener Aug. 28 against Liberty Union at Fortress Obetz was undeniable.

Ready improved from 4-6 in 2018 to go 5-5 last fall in Cutler’s return season after going 7-4 and making the Division V playoffs in 2017.

Cutler also headed the program in 2012 and 2013 and led Ready to the postseason both years.

The Silver Knights are playing a sixgame regular-season schedule against only MSL programs, including the final five against teams in the MSL-Ohio Division.

Ready would have played its only CCL game against St. Charles, but the Cardinals temporarily suspended their season in mid-August and are not scheduled to play any games until September.

Ready is not a full member of the MSL-Ohio and thus isn’t eligible for the league title, but it went 4-3 against programs from that league. Harvest Prep,

which Ready plays Sept. 18 on the road, won the league at 6-0.

The Knights lost just 10 players to graduation, including six who played key roles.

“It’s definitely been a step to where everyone was last year,” said senior Cole Matthews, who will play tight end and linebacker. "We definitely want to get a good record and get the highest seed as possible for the playoffs.”

OFFENSE

Although the Knights lost their most productive offensive player the last three seasons in running back Jack Foley to graduation, they have experience throughout the skill positions.

Parham joined the program for the first time last fall but rushed 124 times for 711 yards and nine touchdowns and completed 53 of 94 passes for 644 yards and five scores.

Taking over as the main running backs

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44

M ID -S TATE L EAGUE

Grove City Christian

Eagles’ coach sees increase in talent

By FRANK DiRENNA THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Grove City Christian coach Hank Patterson believes he has the most talented team of his four-year tenure, with standouts at several positions as the Eagles look to improve on last season’s 3-7 finish.

Grove City Christian opened MSL-Cardinal Division play Aug. 28 against Worthington Christian and visits Fisher Catholic on Friday, Sept. 4, for another league contest.

“I like being with the kids, the kids like me and I have some real good players,” Patterson said. “This is probably my most athletic team and that’s not cutting the guys before, but these guys seem that they’re into it. They like doing some of the wide-open things.”

Because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the Eagles’ schedule consists of five MSL-Cardinal contests and a non-league game with Troy Christian. All teams are eligible to participate in the playoffs.

“Everything that we do, everything that’s happening in the world, I try to talk to these guys because I don’t want them to walk around ignorant about things,” Patterson said. “When we have our meetings, we’ll all have masks on.”

Last season, Grove City Christian went 1-3 in the league to finish fourth behind champion Worthington Christian (4-0).

The Eagles should be led by senior Christian Lautenschleger (RB/LB), who is closing out a four-year career.

“I can’t believe (my career) is almost over,” said Lautenschleger, who was named firstteam all-district and all-league and special mention all-state in Division VII last season.

“I’m glad it’s here and I’m ready for the season. I’m ready to do everything for this team.

It’s not the senior season I wanted game-wise. It’s nervewracking that we’re not going to have that normal season.”

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .........vs. Worth. Christian *Sept. 4 .............at Fisher Catholic *Sept. 11 .......at Fairfield Christian *Sept. 18.vs. Zanesville Rosecrans *Sept. 25 ...........vs. Corning Miller Oct. 2 ..................at Troy Christian 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 1-3 MSL-Cardinal) Middletown Christian ........L, 40-6 New Philadelphia Tuscarawas Central Catholic ................L, 41-7 Dayton Jefferson Twsp. ..W, 21-12 *Worthington Christian ......L, 37-6 *Fisher Catholic.................L, 41-0

Junior Jaylin Walker is a key receiver who “could be a game-wrecker,” Patterson said.

Sophomore Braydan Taylor will back up Hanks at quarterback and is another starting receiver.

Senior Andrew Heins will start at tight end.

The offensive line will feature senior Henry AriasLamus, junior Kyle Graham, sophomores Jalen Clemons and Tyler Richmond and freshman Jordan Dupler.

Arias-Lamus was honorable mention all-league last season.

DEFENSE

Jayden Hanks returns for his junior season after completing 79 of 131 passes for 739 yards and nine touchdowns last season. BRIAN S. BAYLESS/THISWEEK

A key loss to graduation is Joey Gallagher (FB/LB), who was first-team all-district and all-league and special mention all-state last season.

Also gone is Garrett Baker (WR/DB), who led the Eagles in receiving with 21 catches for 210 yards and two touchdowns. He was second-team all-league and special/honorable mention all-district.

OFFENSE

Junior quarterback Jayden Hanks returns to guide the team’s power-counter scheme.

Last season, he completed 79 of 131 passes for 739 yards with nine touchdowns and seven interceptions. He was honorable mention all-league.

“Jayden is going to do a lot of things for us this year,” Patterson said. “I’m very impressed with him with the way he’s done things. He’s a little small (at 5-foot-11 and 160 pounds), but I think he can get it done. We found ourselves with Mr. Hanks. He manipulates well. He’s a good runner.”

Last season, Lautenschleger

led the Eagles in rushing with 550 yards and six touchdowns on 122 carries. He also had 118 yards receiving and a touchdown.

“It’s the same goal every single year: Win games, get better and hopefully we can win games in the playoffs,” Lautenschleger said. “As long as everyone is working their hardest, doing their hardest and growing, that’s all that matters.”

Senior Joseph Phillips and sophomore James Suhayda are other running backs.

rotation of players to keep players fresh, especially up front.”

“Jacob was a weapon for us because he was in (field-goal) range when he stepped off the bus,” Nori said. “We held some tryouts and Trey and Justin have done a good job from around 40 yards or so. We have to be happy with that.”

Moeller remains at punter after averaging 39.7 yards per attempt last season.

Junior Connor Gavin, Harris, Lawrence, junior Colin Pethtel and Rader will return kicks, and junior Gage Lillie or Lawrence will be the long snapper.

BEARS

FROM >> 24

0, 275) returns at nose guard, with Alonso and Harder back as ends.

Lawrence has moved to linebacker from the secondary, where he had 56 tackles and three interceptions. Senior Liam McGreevey also had moved up to play linebacker.

“I got a little bigger so I moved up to linebacker this year,” Lawrence said. “We have a lot of guys coming back, so we all know our jobs now that we are in our third sea-

son.”

Radar (honorable mention all-district, second-team all-league) is back at cornerback after having 34 tackles and a team-high five interceptions.

Jason Harris, a first-year junior coming out from the basketball program, is looking to make an impact in the secondary.

“We lost some great players at linebacker so we had to move some players around, but they are doing well for us,” Nori said. “We like to keep a

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Bears had a kicking weapon last fall in 2020 graduate Jacob Lewis, who signed with Ball State. He was second-team all-state and firstteam all-district and all-league after going 9-for-15 on field goals and making all 27 of his extra-point attempts.

Looking to fill his shoes are Rader and junior Trey Keith – except for the fact that Rader is a barefoot kicker.

The Eagles have switched from a 3-3-5 base defense to a 4-2-5 scheme.

“We had to change the defense because it fits what they do,” Patterson said. “The 3-3-5 really wasn’t working for us. The 4-2 (up front) with the guys we have is probably more conducive to what we do.”

Heins, Arias-Lamus and senior Colin May should anchor the line, with Phillips, junior Conner Jones, Clemons, Lautenschleger and Suhayda at linebacker.

Patterson expects Walker to lead the secondary, with seniors Josiah Bever and Carson Dick also contributing.

SPECIAL TEAMS

As it continued preparing for the opener, Patterson said the team was still in search of a kicker.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jacob Moeller (sr., 6-4, 175), Harrison Brewster (fr., 5-10, 165), Aiden Loeffler (sr., 6-4, 175) Running backs: *Ethan Lee (jr., 6-2, 200), Gavin Angell (jr., 6-0, 180), Nick Tiberio (jr., 5-11, 180) Receivers: *Bennett Lawrence (jr., 6-1, 185), *Justin Rader (sr., 6-0, 150), Quintin Applegate (jr., 6-3, 170), Connor Gavin (jr., 5-9, 140), Ryan Horstman (sr., 6-2, 180), Trey Keith (jr., 5-10, 175), Loeffler,

*Fairfield Christian............W, 26-7 Morral Ridgedale.............L, 16-12 Newbury.........................L, 42-22 Hillcrest Academy...........W, 47-14 *Berne Union ....................L, 33-2 *League contest INSIDE THE EAGLES •Coach: Hank Patterson, fourth season •Top players: Josiah Bever (WR/LB), Jayden Hanks (QB/DB), Colin May (TE/DL), Christian Lautenschleger (RB/LB) and Jaylin Walker (WR/DB) •Key losses: Garrett Baker, Koby Brunney and Joey Gallagher

Lautenschleger is the punter, Walker is the team’s top return threat and Heins is the long snapper.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jayden Hanks (jr.., 5-11, 160), Braydan Taylor (so., 6-1, 185) Running backs: *Joseph Phillips (sr., 5-11, 160), Christian Lautenschleger (sr., 5-9, 210), James Suhayda (so., 510, 160) Receivers: *Jake Bapst (sr., 5-9, 140), *Jaylin Walker (jr., 5-9, 140), *Taylor, Josiah Bever (sr., 5-9, 160) Tight end: *Andrew Heins (sr., 6-0, 165) Linemen: *Jalen Clemons (so., 5-11, 210), *Jordan Dupler (fr., 6-2, 325), *Kyle Graham (jr., 5-9, 150), *Henry Arias-Lamus (sr., 6-2, 240), *Tyler Richmond (so., 6-1, 315) Defense Linemen: *Heins, *AriasLamus, *Colin May (sr., 6-0, 200) Linebackers: *Clemons, *Lautenschleger, *Phillips, *Suhayda, Conner Jones (jr., 5-10, 170) Secondary: *Bever, *Carson Dick (sr., 5-9, 160), *Walker Special teams Kicker: To be determined Punter: *Lautenschleger Returners: *Walker Long snapper: *Heins (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

Liam McGreevey (sr., 5-10, 170), Colin Pethtel (jr., 5-10, 150), Kyle Scollo (sr., 5-11, 175) Linemen: *Antonio Alonso (sr., 6-0, 265), *Andrew Cline (sr., 6-0, 290), *Jon Harder (jr., 6-5, 275), *Cole Troyer (sr., 6-2, 290), *Bryce Young (jr., 5-11, 265), Austin Burchinal (jr., 6-0, 275), Brock Corry (jr., 6-1, 220), Kyler Heitzenrater (jr., 5-10, 230), Mason Pak (jr., 6-2, 240), Defense

BERLIN >> 48

45

M ID -S TATE L EAGUE

Rangers begin new era under Varney

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

As their team experienced its share of ups and downs the past few weeks, several of Hamilton Township’s players stayed as busy as possible.

The Rangers had their program suspended on two separate occasions because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic and remained in Phase 1 training into late August.

With his team involved in limited group activities for much of the summer, senior Josiah Beverly and several teammates participated in strength training with former Hamilton Township standout Micky Crum. A 2014 graduate, Crum went on to play tight end for Louisville.

“Ever since all of this happened, we’ve been hanging out way more because we realize now that anything can happen,” Beverly said. “We’ve gone to a facility to train together under Micky Crum for about a month, doing a lot of speed training, and he got us stronger, too. We also worked on bench and squats, but it was mainly speed.”

The Rangers spent the summer piecing together a new system under first-year coach Tennyson Varney.

He spent six seasons as an assistant at Hamilton Township, including the final four as offensive coordinator, and then coached Franklin Heights from 2014-16. In his final season there, the Falcons went 102 and made the playoffs for the first time since 1989.

Varney was at Grove City the past three seasons before taking over for Mike Savino, who led the Rangers to a 1416 mark in three seasons.

Hamilton Township went 5-5 last fall, including winning its final two games, and 3-3 in the MSL-Buckeye Division.

The Rangers are playing an allleague schedule because of the OHSAA’s six-game regularseason set up.

“This has been the craziest year ever,” Varney said. “We started practice, we canceled practice, we started it back up again and canceled it again.

Every time I think we’re going to shut down, we get a call that we’re going back to Phase 1.

The first week in July was the last time (before late August) that we did a team activity. You never know what can happen.

I’m happy to be back.”

OFFENSE

The Rangers will use the wing-T as their base offense.

Beverly, senior Stephen Mikell and juniors Riley Gibbs and Aaman Whitson all could see regular carries, with junior Felix Prewitt, a transfer from

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28..............at Bloom-Carroll *Sept. 4 ..................vs. Logan Elm *Sept. 11............at Fairfield Union *Sept. 18 ..............vs. Teays Valley *Sept. 25 ..vs. Amanda-Clearcreek *Oct. 2.......................at Circleville 2019 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 3-3 MSL-Buckeye) Franklin Heights ................L, 13-8 Groveport..........................L, 56-0 Bexley .............................W, 28-7 *Bloom-Carroll ..................L, 38-7 *Logan Elm ....................W, 48-21 *Fairfield Union.................W, 47-6 *Teays Valley.....................L, 42-0 *Amanda-Clearcreek.......L, 35-32

Whetstone, supplying speed.

“I’ve been waiting for this since my freshman year,” Beverly said. “It’s my senior year and I’m pretty sure we’re going to do well this year. We have high expectations.

“We run the wing-T and will be doing a lot of power running and (jet sweeps), too. Our wings are fast.”

Senior Brock McGuire is at quarterback after taking over the starting job midway through last season. Senior Malcolm Denny returns at tight end, and seniors Joe Brobst and Elijah Kraft are back on the line.

Brobst is at center, with Kraft and junior Jayce Peters at guard and seniors Wyatt Moore and Jordan Sloan at tackle.

“I got into (the wing-T) after I used to be a spread guy, but now everyone knows how to stop it, so we’ll run more of a spread wing-T type of deal,” Varney said.

DEFENSE

Beverly and Denny are the top returnees on defense for a team that held four opponents to seven points or fewer but also allowed 35 points or more four times last fall.

Denny had 80 tackles and 11.5 tackles for loss, and Beverly had 71 tackles with eight tackles for loss. They are joined at linebacker by Gibbs and junior Seth Conrad.

Brobst and Kraft will be at nose guard, with senior Eric Pike at tackle and junior Tyler Bornheim, Peters and sophomore Trenton Renz at end.

Prewitt and Whitson should be at cornerback, with senior C.J. Holt and sophomore Max Tetry at safety. Prewitt had one interception last season.

“Right now (our defense is) a straight guessing game,” Varney said. “We look good running around a little bit, but that doesn’t mean anything. I’m curious to see us hit. I don’t know if we’re hitters or not.

This is the first year I honestly don’t know about my team, which makes it tough.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Because of the time the

*Circleville........................W, 56-0 Logan ..............................W, 14-7 *League contest INSIDE THE RANGERS •Coach: Tennyson Varney, first season •Top players: Josiah Beverly (LB/RB), Joe Brobst (OL/DL), Malcolm Denny (LB/TE), Riley Gibbs (RB/LB), C.J. Holt (WR/DB), Elijah Kraft (OL/DL), Brock McGuire (QB), Stephen Mikell (RB) and Felix Prewitt (RB/DB) •Key losses: Jaylan Baldwin, Gage Blosser, Ato Forsen, Brad Maynard, Deshan Peart, Dre Stevens and Creed Tackett

Rangers spent on suspension this summer, putting in a kicking game was one of their last activities. One thing Varney is certain of is that he must use Prewitt in as many situations as possible, including in the return game. “(Prewitt) is one of the kids that has a really good feel to him, has great hand-eye coordination with the ball and runs well,” Varney said. “Right now I’m really happy with the way the kids are working. They’ve been fighting the adversity up and down all summer, and I’m honestly impressed with some of their focus at the task at hand when they don’t even know what the task is.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Brock McGuire (sr., 5-8, 155), Jordan Bowen (so., 5-8, 185) Running backs backs: *Josiah Beverly (sr., 5-10, 225), Riley Gibbs (jr., 6-1, 220), Stephen Mikell (sr., 5-10, 150), Felix Prewitt (jr., 5-8, 170), Aaman Whitson (jr., 5-7, 180) Receivers: *C.J. Holt (sr., 6-1, 170), Max Tetry (so., 62, 165) Tight end: *Malcolm Denny (sr., 6-3, 235), Linemen: *Joe Brobst (sr., 5-9, 285), *Elijah Kraft (sr., 511, 240), *Wyatt Moore (sr., 6-4, 260), *Jayce Peters (jr., 62, 250), *Jordan Sloan (sr., 60, 245) Defense Linemen: *Tyler Bornheim (jr., 6-2, 225), *Brobst, *Kraft, *Eric Pike (sr., 6-1, 280), Peters, Trenton Renz (so., 62, 215) Linebackers: *Beverly, *Denny, *Gibbs, Seth Conrad (jr., 5-11, 195) Secondary: *Holt, *Prewitt, *Tetry, *Whitson Special teams Kicker: To be determined Punter: *Denny Returners: *Prewitt, *Mikell, Holt Long snapper: *Gibbs (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

Jeff Hartings is in his fourth season as coach of the Warriors, who finished 8-3 and reached the playoffs for the first time last season. BRIAN S. BAYLESS/THISWEEK

Worthington Christian

Warriors focusing on present to reach potential

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM Worthington Christian passed a new milestone in its growth as a program last fall when it qualified for the playoffs for the first time.

Now in their seventh season but with inexperienced players in some key roles for the first time, the Warriors aren’t necessarily focusing on what lies ahead later in the season but rather on the present.

The phrase fourth-year coach Jeff Hartings often uses is “the process is the product” when describing what he wants his players thinking about.

“I think we’ve got potential,” Hartings said. “I’m thankful that we can put what I consider guys out there that can play varsity football and can protect themselves at the varsity football level in a program like ours. Our roster gives us the flexibility to be able to put guys out there that can compete, but we only have 30 to 35 kids again.

“We’re always going to have freshmen, sophomores and juniors playing right now. Especially with our team, we’re young and we’re kind of starting over to some extent. We just want to get better every day. I definitely feel like we can develop and see what happens in the playoffs.”

The Warriors opened their six-game schedule Aug. 28 with an MSL-Cardinal Division game at Grove City Christian. They compete in a fiveteam league, which left room to schedule non-league games Sept. 4 at home against Corning Miller and Sept. 18 at Dayton Christian.

During Worthington Christian’s 8-3 finish last season, it defeated Dayton Christian 3122.

Both the Warriors and Day-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28.....at Grove City Christian Sept. 4...............vs. Corning Miller *Sept. 11 ..........vs. Fisher Catholic Sept. 18 ..........at Dayton Christian *Sept. 25 ......vs. Fairfield Christian *Oct. 2...................at Berne Union 2019 RESULTS (8-3 overall, 4-0 MSL-Cardinal) Spring. Northeastern ......W, 27-14 Galion Northmor..............L, 42-17 Danville .........................W, 33-26 Grove City Christian..........W, 37-6 Glouster Trimble................L, 34-6 *Fisher Catholic..............W, 31-21 Dayton Christian.............W, 31-22 *Fairfield Christian..........W, 47-13 *Berne Union....................W, 41-0

ton Christian lost in the first round of the Division VI, Region 24 playoffs, with fifthseeded Worthington Christian losing 33-27 to fourth-seeded Covington in its postseason debut.

The Warriors also won their first league title, wrapping up a 4-0 finish in the MSL-Cardinal by beating Berne Union 41-0 in the regular-season finale.

“As a team, we’ve been handling things pretty well,” senior two-way lineman Zach Hoheisel said. “We’ve been socially distancing, working on our plays as best as we can and we’ve done a lot together after practice. We split into big groups and discuss the problems we’re having and how we can care for each other. Our team is educated and physically capable of bringing us far into the playoffs this year.”

OFFENSE

The Warriors have a pair of experienced playmakers in senior running back Braden Anderson and junior wide receiver Jaiden Reynolds.

Anderson rushed 98 times for 703 yards and nine touch-

KIPP Columbus...............W, 53-14 PLAYOFFS Covington .......................L, 33-27 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS •Coach: Jeff Hartings, fourth season •Top players: Braden Anderson (RB/LB), Jeb Burford (OL/DL), Josh Carrell (OL/LB),Aaron Eisel (WR/DB), Chase Fourman (OL/DL), Jordan Gray (WR/DB), Zach Hoheisel (OL/DL), Jaiden Reynolds (WR/DB) and Tyler White (RB/LB) •Key losses: Dillon Fulks, Caleb Harper, Lucas Hartings, D.J. Moore, Jackson Moore, Ryan Snedecor, Jake Thompson and Landon West

downs and added two touchdown catches, while Reynolds added 29 receptions for 435 yards and four scores.

In addition to these returnees, Hartings believes sophomore Jordan Gray could give the Warriors a boost on offense at either running back or receiver.

Another source of strength should be on the offensive line, where seniors Jeb Burford, Chase Fourman and Zach Hoheisel all return.

“We definitely had to make our team more of a 50-50 run to pass because of the new quarterbacks, and I definitely would like to say that Braden Anderson will be used a lot more this year than last year,” Hoheisel said. “He’s pretty good.”

Hoheisel and sophomore Blake Kessler are at tackle, with Burford at center and Fourman and sophomore Carrell at guard.

Sophomore Cayden Lassiter and freshman Hobie Raikes give the Warriors two options at quarterback. They’re looking to replace 2020 graduate Lucas Hartings, who finished

WARRIORS >> 52

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Hamilton Township

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L ICKING C OUNTY L EAGUE

Granville

Up-tempo Aces look to wear down foes

By DAVE WEIDIG NEWARK ADVOCATE

Fast and physical. That's the way Granville’s 2020 version wants to be defined, on both sides of the ball, under new coach Wes Schroeder.

The Blue Aces, coming off back-to-back 10-2 seasons that included the program’s first two playoff wins, should have the talent and depth to execute Schroeder’s schemes: an uptempo, no-huddle offense and a 3-5-3 defense.

Granville returns 11 seniors and a junior class with 23 members that features several key contributors a year ago.

Senior offensive tackle Michael Donelan (6-foot-4, 220), said the team is looking forward to the “fast and physical” part.

“We want to keep the defense off balance,” Donelan said. “We’ve done some pretty nice conditioning, and it’s all about our aggression and who wants it the most.”

“It’s fast-paced, and we want to step on teams’ throats at the beginning and not let up,” said junior Christian Hilton (6-1, 185), who played tight end as a sophomore and will line up at wideout and linebacker. “We want to wear them down.”

Caden McDermott (5-8, 180) is another junior who played as a sophomore and will split out in Granville’s fourreceiver sets.

“We want to play faster, smarter and more disciplined,” he said. “We should be able to move the ball and score quickly.”

Despite losing receivers

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ........................at Waverly *Sept. 4 ....................at Zanesville *Sept. 11 .............at Licking Valley *Sept. 18 .....vs. Watkins Memorial Sept. 25 .................vs. Johnstown *Oct. 2.............vs. Licking Heights 2019 RESULTS (10-2 overall, 3-1 in LCL-Buckeye) Marion-Franklin................W, 24-8 Clear Fork ........................W, 21-7 Eastmoor .........................W, 33-0 Johnstown.......................W, 14-0 Utica................................W, 63-0 *Licking Heights.............W, 35-21 Northridge........................W, 40-7 *Lakewood ......................W, 36-0 *Licking Valley.................L, 28-12

Dominic Varrasso and Zach Walsh to graduation, the Blue Aces return senior Keshawn Bonner (5-10, 175), who caught 51 passes for 710 yards and seven touchdowns.

He will team with McDermott, Hilton and Jaden Rudder (6-0, 188), who decided to play football as a senior, to provide Granville with another dynamic receiving corps.

“Keshawn is very fast, and is a great leader and a great kid,” Schroeder said. “Caden is really coachable and not afraid to stick his nose in there.

Christian will be in the slot, has great hands and is eager to hit people. Jaden is a really good addition. He’s athletic with great hands and is a bigger, thicker receiver.”

One of the challenges will be replacing quarterback Bo Buttermore, who threw for 2,346 yards and 27 touchdowns with just seven interceptions, while also running for 568

*Watkins Memorial.........W, 35-14 PLAYOFFS Zanesville ........................W, 41-7 Hartley............................L, 35-13 *League contest INSIDE THE BLUE ACES •Coach: Wes Schroeder, first season •Top players: Keshawn Bonner (WR/DB), Braden Atchison (RB/LB), Blake Rine (QB/DB), Michael Donelan (OL/DL), Luke Holmberg (OT/DT), Devon Haley (RB/LB), Carsyn Crouch (QB/DB), Caden McDermott (WR/DB), Christian Hilton (WR/LB), Kameron Wright (OT/DT) •Key losses: Bo Buttermore, Dominic Varrasso, Zach Walsh, Mitchell Kunar

yards.

Senior Blake Rine and junior Carsyn Crouch are competing for the spot, and Rine also returns as the punter. Both are 6-2, 180, and bring different strengths to the position.

“Carsyn is the better runner and can make plays with his feet,” Schroeder said. “Blake throws a tight spiral and is pretty accurate. I’m confident with either of them.”

After splitting time at running back with Doak Buttermore, who transferred to Upper Arlington when former coach Justin Buttermore took the Golden Bears’ job in the offseason, junior Devon Haley (5-8, 180) will look to improve on last season’s totals of 581 yards rushing and seven touchdowns.

“He’s fast, shifty and has good balance,” Schroeder said.

Donelan will team with junior Kameron Wright (6-4, 280) at tackle, and junior guard

Senior Blake Rine and junior Carsyn Crouch entered the season in a battle for starting spot at quarterback for the Blue Aces and first-year coach Wes Schroeder.

KURT SNYDER/NEWARK ADVOCATE

Mason Liberti (5-11, 220) saw action as a sophomore. Junior Bobby Vahalik (5-10, 200) also figures in the mix up front, where positions were up for grabs during the preseason.

On defense, Schroeder thinks he has the personnel to execute a 3-5-3 scheme.

“We want them to play so fast and so physical,” he said.

‘We’re unique and we want to have a defender that you can’t block on every play. We’re multiple, but it’s really very simple.”

Senior Braden Atchison (510, 190) leads the way at linebacker after making eight tackles for loss in 2019.

“He coaches the other guys up out there,” Schroeder said.

Junior Colin Sheehan (5-10, 220) and senior Luke Holmberg (6-0, 210) are back on the defensive line, and Bonner

returns at cornerback. Other key contributors are expected to be Hilton at linebacker and McDermott at free safety.

Schroeder named the Division VI Northwest District Coach of the Year last season after leading Allen East to a 92 season. The Mustangs made their first playoff appearance since 2006 and won their first Northwest Conference title since 1995.

Schroeder, a 2004 graduate of Leipsic High School, where he played football, basketball and baseball, spent two seasons as an assistant at Olentangy Liberty in 2016 and 2017, and the Patriots were Division I state semifinalists both seasons. He resigned from Allen East in January after his wife took a job in central Ohio.

“We just want to win,” Hilton said. “Coach Schroeder

has made a big point, about us having expectations of wanting to go further than we ever have.”

The junior class plans on having a big role in trying to meet those expectations.

“We have a lot of cohesion,” McDermott said. “We’ve played together and won together for so long.”

Donelan said the senior class also comes into the season with high aspirations.

“We know we have big shoes to fill, and that motivates us a lot,” he said.

“Our big goal is to improve on what the last class has done.

We want to have a long playoff run, and we have to get into a playoff mindset from the start.” dweidig@nncogannett.com @noz75

Watkins Memorial

Warriors counting on depth, senior leadership

By KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE

Senior players at Watkins Memorial are taking nothing for granted as they in a season filled with uncertainty.

“We’re leading the guys and pushing them harder every single day and practicing like it could be our last,” senior lineman Eli Doyle said.

“You never know if it's going to be your last practice or the last time you lace up the cleats or strap up the shoulder pads. It actually could be now.”

The team that coach Jake Kuhner has seen on the field the last two seasons often has not been the one he had envisioned during the past two summers.

Kuhner had planned to challenge the Warriors during his third season, with a schedule that included three non-league opponents from the OCC.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28...........................at Licking Valley *Sept. 4........................vs. Licking Heights *Sept. 11..............................vs. Zanesville *Sept. 18 .................................at Granville Sept. 25........................................at Utica Oct. 2.........................................vs. Logan 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 1-3 in LCL-Buckeye) Whetstone ..................................W, 38-19 Walnut Ridge ...............................L, 24-13 Chillicothe...................................W, 26-14 Newark Catholic ............................L, 21-0 Johnstown ....................................L, 24-7 Heath ............................................L, 35-7

“The first two years were tough for us because you have a junior and senior class not really familiar with the coaching staff, but we’re definitely seeing the fruits of our labor this year,” Kuhner said. “That's the main reason I built our non-league schedule the way I did, because I

*Licking Valley .............................L, 40-12 *Licking Heights..........................W, 35-28 *Lakewood ............................L, 29-28, OT *Granville ....................................L, 35-14 *League contest INSIDE THE WARRIORS •Coach: Jake Kuhner, third season •Top players: Gage Lowery (RB/LB), Frank Dunn (OL/DL), Clive Stephens Jr. (OL/DL), Eli Doyle (OL/DL), Anthony Knoblauch (OL/DL), Mason Swearingen (RB/LB), Jaleel Sales (RB/DB), Liston Shroyer (QB), Nate Younker (WR/DB), Caleb Wheeler (WR/DB) •Key losses: Tony Calovini, Christian Harvey, Luke Albin, Seth Cook

knew we would have a great group this year.”

Those non-league games are now gone as the regular season was cut to six games, however, including a season-opening matchup with New Albany that was scheduled to be televised.

The Warriors eased into their official practices earlier this month because of the uncertainty, but that has not changed their expectations.

They want to contend for a title in the Licking County League-Buckeye Division, which now includes Zanesville, a Division III playoff team in 2019.

Junior quarterback Liston Shroyer is back with a year under his belt, and he will be joined in the backfield by senior running back Gage Lowery, who did not play offense until late late season.

“Shroyer started last year at 145 pounds, so he's definitely seasoned,” Kuhner said. “Gage Lowery has been working his butt off in the weight room, and he continues to get better, faster, stronger.”

The Warriors also hope senior running back Jaleel Sales will be able to contribute. Sales missed last season with a broken leg and is recovering from an arm injury.

Juniors Nate Younker and Caleb Wheeler lead the receivers after seeing some varsity action a year ago, but most of the targets from Shroyer's nearly 1,000 passing yards and 10 touchdowns were lost to graduation.

“We have a lot of depth this year, a lot of guys that wanted to come in and work,” Shroyer said. “They’re always trying to get better and excited to play. These guys are going to step in and make a good impact.”

There are more than 90 players in the program this season, including large freshman and junior classes.

One of the strengths for Watkins Memorial should be its experienced offensive line, which along with Doyle includes seniors Frank Dunn, Clive Stephens Jr., and Eli Polley and juniors Anthony Knoblauch, Wyatt Caldwell and Jacob Joyce, who missed the second half of last season with injury.

WARRIORS >> 48

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L ICKING C OUNTY L EAGUE

Hornets set to rebound from rare losing season

By KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE The first area that coach Kele Waaland highlighted when talking about Licking Heights entering the 2020 season was the offensive line.

That made senior center Jesse Williamson smile, as the Hornets look to rebound from a one-win season and return to the success the program had become accustomed to in recent years.

“It’s very exciting for us because the offensive line has a lot of chemistry together, and we’re just trying to step up and lead the team,” Williamson said. “I trust our guys, and anybody in the backfield will get the job done.”

Licking Heights had a string of seven consecutive winning seasons snapped a year ago, and it was the Hornets’ first sub-.500 season since 2005.

Waaland is counting on an experienced offensive line that also features seniors Nate Pack, Chase Wallace and Kenny Salts to help put last season behind them.

“Guys like Jesse Williamson and Nate Pack have been playing on Friday nights for a long time now, and it’s going to be their time to shine and get some things done to get us back to the level of running the ball that we’re used to,” Waaland said.

Waaland is beginning his second season, and he has former coach Darren Waters back

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 ..................vs. Zanesville *Sept. 4 ........at Watkins Memorial *Sept. 11 .............................Open *Sept. 18............vs. Licking Valley Sept. 25.........vs. Newark Catholic *Oct. 2 ........................at Granville 2019 RESULTS (1-9 overall, 1-3 in LCL-Buckeye) Westland ........................L, 48-28 Reynoldsburg....................L, 41-7 New Albany.....................L, 41-14 Heath ...............................L, 26-7 Newark Catholic..............L, 24-21 *Granville........................L, 35-21 *Lakewood.....................W, 39-14 *Watkins Memorial..........L, 35-28

Senior Andre Dewberry and junior Chase Howard compete in a drill for the Hornets, who are coming off a 1-9 season. KURT SNYDER/NEWARK ADVOCATE

on the staff as an assistant.

Waaland also added three recent graduates – Mitchell Coultas, Jay Snider and James Muncy – to help mentor the nearly 100 players in the program.

“We had to figure out what the difference was,” Waaland said. “We tried to narrow each coach’s job. That way they can be more attentive to detail, more focused on what they’re doing, and we can solve small problems we previously wouldn’t have been able to pay attention to.”

Being strong up front also will carry over to the defensive line, where seniors Andre Dewberry and Jeveon Anderson will play key roles.

Dewberry’s promising junior season was interrupted by injury a year ago.

“Andre was coming on last year and then he had a finger injury he had to have surgery on,” Waaland said. “Jeveon has grown into his enormous size and potential. We’re pretty excited about those two guys anchoring our defensive line.”

Dewberry said he is look-

ing forward to picking up where he left off a year ago.

“Despite my size, I think I’m a very aggressive player.

Jeveon, that’s my boy. We’ve been doing this for as long as we can remember. It’s exciting to hear coach telling us we’re going to be anchors.”

Senior Zach Lammers steps in for graduate Cody Wilson at tailback, and he will be taking handoffs from either incumbent senior Noah Coultas, who threw for 1,079 yards and six touchdowns in just over a half-season, junior

when we make the playoffs.

We can be dangerous against any team in our region.”

Grandview’s original opener Aug. 28 against Bexley was canceled by the Lions.

Brody Parsley, battling at quarterback.

The running back logjam includes seniors Cory Culp and Mason Gastesi, juniors Tommy Ernst and McCormick and sophomores Maddox Baker, Mikael Black, Kellen Dowdy and Pierce.

“We’re getting there, but the thing about the wing-T is that it is so much about timing,” Peters said. “The more reps that you get, the better your timing and the better it runs. That’s been tough to do with pods of nine (players with the coronavirus restrictions of Phase 1).”

McCormick said it was just a matter of time before the Bobcats pulled together.

“We have put in a lot of work and it’s paying off, especially on defense,” he said. “I think on offense we have more to put in. We’re going to have to sharpen the knife a little bit, but I definitely think we have been putting in the work.”

the line to linebacker.

Just like on the offensive line, the defensive front has a lot of competition led by Donahue, Doolittle and Downer.

“We’re looking solid on defense,” Taylor said. “We have to fix a few mental things, but I would say that we’re definitely physically ready. I wouldn’t be surprised if we were more of a defensive-oriented team this year, especially to start.”

Dobies is back at linebacker and Culp returns at cornerback.

“The defense is coming along well, and I’m happy where we’re at right now,” Peters said. “It’s just oldschool football. We’re practicing hard and we’re continuing to get better where we need to be.”

Johnstown......................L, 28-14 *Licking Valley.................L, 42-21 *League contest INSIDE THE HORNETS •Coach: Kele Waaland, second season •Top players: Jesse Williamson (OL/DL), Nate Pack (OL/DL), Andre Dewberry (TE/DL), Noah Coultas (QB/DB), Jeveon Anderson (DL), Caleb Malone (LB), Sean Walker (LB), Zach Lammers (RB), Sean Harper Jr (WR/DB), Mason Peters (LB), Brody McLaughlin (QB), Deuce Caldwell (QB/DB) •Key losses: Kevin Carter, Reid Holskey, Cody Wilson, Mekhi Evans

Brody McLaughlin, who is back from a knee injury, or sophomore Deuce Caldwell.

“They go back and forth every day,” Waaland said.

“Three-quarterback rotation is hard in practice, but all three of them have talent and have proven they can get the job done. Now it’s just figuring out which one best fits our offense and who has the leadership skills, etc.”

Senior Sean Harper will lead an inexperienced group of receivers after the Hornets lost Kevin Carter to graduation.

The Hornets are also inexperienced at linebacker, but Waaland said the senior trio of Sean Walker, Caleb Malone and Mason Peters has shown promise during the preseason.

“Program kids are coaches’

favorites,” Waaland said.

“They are guys that never complain, do their job, and when they get their chance, they excel. That’s exciting for a coach to watch. It shows you are doing something right at practice.”

Coultas and Caldwell will see action in a new-look secondary for Licking Heights, which has won the LCLBuckeye Division four times.

“What’s different is we have to bring more intensity as a senior,” Dewberry said.

“I have to lead my pack.

We’re not trying to end up like last season. We’ve been working day in and day out, studying, and the coaches are doing a good job of keeping our heads straight.”

Tristin Pierce will return kicks.

The long snapper had yet to be selected by the coaching staff late in the preseason.

Defense Linemen: *Gecse, *Zimmerman, Doolittle, Donahue, Downer Linebackers: *Dobies, *Taylor, Dowdy, Ernst, Rickert Secondary: *Culp, *Pierce, M. Black, Leach, McCormick, Parsley, Troiano Special teams Kicker: Gastesi, Harvey Pierce (jr., 5-10, 160) unter: McCormick Punter: Returners: M. Black, Culp, T. Pierce Long snapper snapper: TBD (*Denotes projected starter)

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

BOBCATS FROM >> 41

“We had a lot more experience on last year’s team,” said Pierce, who plays in the slot and in the defensive backfield. “We learned how to become leaders, how to execute, what it looks like to become a team and how to run an offense and everything “This year there have been setbacks with the phases from the COVID (protocols). We weren’t able to practice as a team or have contact. ... It’s been a grind, but we have to keep working hard. I think we’re looking good this year.”

Teams have a possible six-game regular season, with all squads being eligible for the postseason for the first time.

The past two seasons, Grandview faced Bainbridge Paint Valley on the road in the first round, falling to the Bearcats 39-36 in overtime in 2018 and winning 35-28 last season before losing their regional semifinal to Mechanicsburg 48-7.

“We have been playing a tough schedule,” Taylor said.

“That shows that playing the bigger schools can help us

OFFENSE

The Bobcats’ returning starters in their wing-T attack are four senior offensive linemen and sophomore tight end Ian Gecse.

Back on the line are Taylor, Connor Dobies, Gabhran Downer and Jake Zimmerman. Dobies may move from center to tackle, but Peters said there would be no shortage of players to rotate into the game.

Those ready to step in are senior Roman Stryjewski, juniors Carter Black and Will Doolittle and sophomores Owen Billeter, Walter Donahue and Jack Rickert.

“We have more depth on the line than we have since I’ve been here,” Peters said.

“We have a lot of kids pushing for time, which is a good thing to have.”

The backfield situation was a little murky in the preseason. The Bobcats had two sophomores, Logan Baker and Central Crossing move-in

DEFENSE

The Bobcats’ 4-3 base alignment also has five returning starters, including Gecse and Zimmerman on the line, while Taylor has moved from

SPECIAL TEAMS

Gastesi and junior Harvey Pierce have been vying to replace kicker Hallie Georskey, a 2020 graduate who was 26-for-30 on extra points and was 2-for-2 on field goals last year.

McCormick will handle punting duties.

Mikael Black, Culp and

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Logan Baker (so., 5-11, 160), Brody Parsley (so., 5-9, 160) Running backs: Maddox Baker (so., 5-8, 170), Mikael Black (so., 5-8, 155), Cory Culp (sr., 5-9, 165), Kellen Dowdy (so., 5-11, 165), Tommy Ernst (jr., 6-0, 185), Mason Gastesi (sr., 5-8, 200), Connor McCormick (jr., 511, 150), Tristin Pierce (so., 5-9, 130) Receivers: Jake Leach (jr., 5-10, 160), Jake Troiano (jr., 5-9, 160) Tight end: *Ian Gecse (so., 6-4, 225) Linemen: *Connor Dobies (sr., 6-3, 205), *Gabhran Downer (sr., 6-2, 210), *Matthew Taylor (sr., 6-2, 250), *Jake Zimmerman (sr., 6-2, 235), Owen Billeter (so., 5-10, 160), Carter Black (jr., 5-7, 185), Walter Donahue (so., 6-1, 235), Will Doolittle (jr., 5-10, 260), Jack Rickert (so., 5-11, 211), Roman Stryjewski (sr., 6-4, 300)

shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

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Licking Heights

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Licking Valley

Panthers’ seniors out to scale mountaintop

By DAVE WEIDIG NEWARK ADVOCATE In 2018, Licking Valley advanced to the Division IV state semifinals, despite being a No. 7 seed and losing three regular-season games.

Last season, the Panthers nearly ran the table before being beaten 42-14 by Clyde in the state final to finish 141.

The lopsided loss still stings for the 21 seniors who return, and they hope to give Hall of Fame coach Randy Baughman an elusive state title after three trips to the championship game that have all ended with a runner-up trophy.

“We had to have just one more win, and the ultimate goal is not to lose there again, but we have to get there first,” said senior defensive end Mason Stevens, who led the Panthers with 12 sacks in 2019. “That last one, it hurt.”

“Getting blown out, it hurt bad,” senior guard Elden Fyffe said. “We’ve been there, and if we can get back, we’ll come more prepared. It’s exciting, but kind of sad. It’s our last chance to make really big history.”

Missing from a year ago are three players who were key to the Panthers’ success: quarterback Logan Bragg, tailback Mitchell Ford and do-everything Hayden Hile, who caught passes, ran reverses and counters and also had seven interceptions on defense.

Even so, Licking Valley is not expecting much of a dropoff.

“We have to play more people both ways, so we hope our younger guys step up, and if not start, at least give us some quality reps,” Baughman said.

Either junior Cameron Parmer or senior Rylan Ellis – last year’s j.v. quarterbacks – will replace Bragg, while seniors Devin McConnell and Dylan Dodson will get the first shot at tailback. Both were defensive standouts last season.

Senior Denali Harris, who ran for 534 yards as a backup, will fill Hile’s role but is bigger at 6-feet, 185 pounds.

Stevens said he has confidence in either quarterback.

“Parmer has improved his

At a glance

Senior Dylan Dodson is expected to rotate at running back with classmate Devin McConnell. Dodson also will play on the defensive line. KURT SNYDER/NEWARK ADVOCATE

throwing ability and is learning to read defenses,” he said.

“We still have quality guys across the board,” Baughman said. “If Ellis is not the quarterback, he’s a dandy receiver.

He’s valuable either way.

McConnell has untapped potential, and could explode this season. Dodson is aggressive and gets a lot of yardage after the hit. We hope Denali can duplicate what Hile did.

He’s a former running back and being a slot back, he can run and catch, and be a big part of our offense.”

“Cameron and Rylan both have worked super hard, and they’ll be able to get the ball to us,” Harris said. “I think we’ll have one of the strongest receiver corps we’ve had in a while. After Hile, it’s a pretty big role to fill, but I’ll be more at home, getting outside and getting into space.”

Senior Bodee Creech (6-2, 200) returns at wideout, where he caught 36 passes for five TDs. He is joined by seniors Xavier Felumlee and Ben Kozlowski along with juniors Matthew Labuda and Colby Stough to give the Panthers a deep group of receivers.

A veteran offensive line has been bolstered by the emergence of senior tackle Clayton Orr (6-2, 265), who first came out for football last year.

“This year, it seems like things are clicking for him,” Baughman said. “He could be a force, and last year it was (graduate Jeremy) Bravard.

He and (junior) Nathan Romano (265) give us some size, and Fyffe and Jimmy Larue (both 245) are back at guard.”

“Our line is a little faster, and our running backs have potential,” Fyffe said.”They

know what blockers to get behind.”

Senior center Brandon Bishop was recovering from a broken leg suffered in the spring but hoped to be back for the Aug. 28 opener against Watkins Memorial.

Dodson is undersized for a defensive lineman at 5-10, 185, but he used his speed and leverage to record 15 tackles for loss and seven sacks last year in the Panthers’ 4-3 defense.

Stevens and classmate Dylan Camp (245) are other key contributors up front, with Fyffe, seniors Kolton Penick and Dylan Hartman, and juniors Isaac Steadman and Clay Prouty also figuring in the rotation.

McConnell had 56 solo tackles and 92 assists in 2019 at linebacker, where the Panthers also have seniors Ellis, Kozlowski and Landen Wat-

“They’re big guys,” Kuhner said.

“They’ve put a lot of work in the weight room, and they’re in the best shape they’ve ever been in, which is exactly where you want your senior guys to be.”

Doyle said he and the senior class are looking forward to making their final season a memorable one.

“We have no excuse this year to say, ‘We’re young, or we’re not strong enough,”’ he said. “We go out to eat all

Licking Valley’s deep roster means that players need to work hard to earn playing time, which is one of the keys to the Panthers’ success.

“Our class, since the sixth grade, has always challenged each other, either on the red or white teams,” Harris said.

“There’s a lot of competition for spots.”

Regardless of what the shortened season has in store, Licking Valley will be highly motivated.

“It was a heartbreaker,” Camp said of the loss in the state final. “Poland was a huge step, and maybe we were just happy to be there. Everyone was nervous. With the assets we have, we have a pretty good chance of going back. We know the environment now.” dweidig@nncogannett.com @noz75

BERLIN

WARRIORS FROM >> 46

son, and juniors Labuda and Konnor Compton. Juniors Isaac Barsotti, who is the third running back, and Rylan Felumlee are also in the mix at linebacker.

The defensive backfield should be strong again as well, with Xavier Felumlee and Harris at the corners, and Creech returning at free safety. “(Felumlee) has as good of a nose for the football as any defensive back we’ve had,” said Baughman, who also is counting on juniors T.J. Bayerl and state wrestling qualifier Alijah Stevens in the secondary.

“Defensively, we’re just as fast as last year, and we’re going to use that speed,” said Baughman, who added that senior kicker Alex Pennington has improved his range and will give the Panthers another threat on offense.

2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28 ....vs. Watkins Memorial *Sept. 4............................Open *Sept. 11 ...............vs. Granville *Sept. 18.......at Licking Heights Sept. 25................at Lakewood *Oct. 2 ..................at Zanesville 2019 RESULTS (14-1 overall, 4-0 in LCL-Buckeye) Sheridan ......................W, 21-7 Heath.........................W, 29-10 Johnstown .................W, 42-22 Utica ............................W, 61-0 Northridge....................W, 63-0 *Lakewood...................W, 47-6 *Watkins Memorial .....W, 40-12 Newark Catholic .........W, 42-14 *Granville ...................W, 28-12 *Licking Heights .........W, 42-21 PLAYOFFS Marion-Franklin............W, 28-6 John Glenn.................W, 20-14 Bloom-Carroll ...............W, 22-6 Poland Seminary ........W, 25-24 Clyde ..........................L, 42-14 *League contest INSIDE THE PANTHERS •Coach: Randy Baughman, 38th season •Top players: Dylan Dodson (RB/DL), Devin McConnell (RB/OLB), Bodee Creech (WR/FS), Denali Harris (WR/CB), Mason Stevens (TE/DE), Clayton Orr (T/DT), Rylan Ellis (QB/OLB), Xavier Felumlee (WR/CB), Brandon Bishop (C/DE), Elden Fyffe (G/DE), Cameron Parmer (QB/DB), Jimmy Larue (G/DT) •Key losses: Mitchell Ford, Logan Bragg, Carson Conley, Noah Hopkins

of the time and do activities together.

We’re just stronger as a unit and stronger as brothers.”

Behind those linemen on defense, seniors Cole Kachurak and Mason Swearingen lead a linebacking corps that also should include sophomore Noah Bigham.

“The guys are getting that we are an attack defense,” Kuhner said. “We’re not a ‘wait-and-tackle’ kind of group.

We’re going to be sending pressure from everywhere.”

Juniors Cullen McFarland, Alec Bennett and Joey Romshe likely will be key contributors in the secondary.

“This being our last year we have nothing to lose,” Swearingen said.

“We’re just putting it all out there.

Instead of it being our last game in a month or two, it could be our last practice or last time hanging out together as a team.”

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

FROM >> 44

Linemen: Alonso, Burchinal, Aiden Cain (sr., 6-2, 205), Harder, Heitzenrater, Pak, Matt Weikel (jr., 6-0, 215), Young Linebackers: *Lawrence, *Lee, *McGreevey, *Nick Pettograsso (sr., 5-10, 180), *Tiberio, Angel, Keith, Gage Lillie (jr., 6-1, 180), J.T. Tompkins (jr., 5-10, 205) Secondary: *Jason Harris

(jr., 5-10, 165), *Loeffler, *Rader, Applegate, Gavin, Horstman, Pethtel Special teams Kickers: Keith, Rader Punters: *Moeller Returners: Gavin, Harris Lawrence, Pethtel, Rader Long snapper: Lillie, Lawrence (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

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Johnstown-Monroe

Johnnies’ foundation is as strong as ever

By KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE A staple of the JohnstownMonroe program has been its brotherhood, and senior running back Wes Myers literally started his prep career as a little brother.

Myers and his teammates are the big brothers now, however, and they have an opportunity to leave a final mark for the Johnnies.

"Our leadership has been great this year so far, teaching the young guys how everything works in this program, how practices are run, the mentality in the weight room and just expectations,” said Myers, who first played alongside his older brother Luke in 2018 as Johnstown reached the 2018 Division V state championship game where they lost 49-34 to Orrville.

After slipping to 5-5 last season, the Johnnies have the potential to get right back into contention for a Licking County League-Cardinal Division title and make a deep postseason run.

Continuity has assisted Johnstown in its long run of success under coach Mike Carter, and that was needed more than ever this summer with practices at a slower pace and the loss of competitive opportunities.

“We’ve built a great foundation, and we’ve had it for

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 ........vs. Newark Catholic *Sept. 4............................at Utica *Sept. 11.................vs. Lakewood *Sept. 18 .......................vs. Heath Sept. 25......................at Granville *Oct. 2 .....................at Northridge 2019 RESULTS (5-5 overall, 2-2 in LCL-Cardinal) Big Walnut .......................W, 21-7 Zanesville .......................L, 35-25 Licking Valley ..................L, 42-22 Granville ...........................L, 14-0 Watkins Memorial ............W, 24-7 *Northridge ....................W, 41-10 *Newark Catholic ............L, 21-10

years,” senior defensive back Brandon McConnell said. “The system works, and as long as the players trust it like we are, we’re going to have a pretty positive season this year.”

Although the Johnnies will look different on the field with many younger players, their formula of running the ball on offense and attacking on defense will continue.

Myers ran for 1,332 yards and 16 touchdowns last year, and classmate Jaden Jacob returns at fullback. Senior Joe Sahr takes over at quarterback after seeing varsity action in the secondary on defense, a path taken by predecessors Caden Calhoun and Cole Workman.

“Experience is huge, getting the opportunity to see firsthand that level of commitment

*Utica ............................W, 56-18 Licking Heights ..............W, 28-14 *Heath ............................L, 17-13 *League contest INSIDE THE JOHNNIES •Coach: Mike Carter, 19th season •Top players: Jake Lusk (TE/DL), Wes Myers (TB/LB), Jaden Jacob (RB/LB), Brandon McConnell (WR/DB, Joe Sahr (QB/DB), Malachi Clark (LB), Justin LaRochelle (LB), Nathan Sheets (RB/DB), Caleb Schneider (QB/LB/K/P).

•Key losses: Wyatt Walton, Cole Workman, Stew Davis

and that level of effort and what it takes to enable you to try to work as hard you can to be the best you can possibly be,” said Carter, who is entering his 19th season.

Johnstown must replace AllOhioan Wyatt Walton on the offensive line, but the Johnnies return seniors Jake Lusk at tight end and Wesley Cox at tackle and junior Alex Billow at guard. Sophomore Garrett Grinstead started on defense a year ago.

Lusk, who recently committed to Navy, will look to duplicate his all-state season at defensive end, and Grinstead and Cayden Rigio also are expected to be two-way starters. “(The seniors) have accepted their roles as leaders,” Carter said. “They’ve done a fantas-

Senior Jake Lusk, an all-state defensive end, has committed to play for Navy. The Johnnies are looking to improve on last season’s 5-5 record. KURT SNYDER/NEWARK ADVOCATE

tic job. I’m very proud of the way they’re reaching out to their teammates and helping them and teaching them, really being able to show them what the program is all about.”

Senior Malachi Clark is back at linebacker along with junior Justin LaRochelle and sophomore Caleb Schneider, while sophomore Nathan Sheets returns at safety.

“It really set us up for this year having all of the young guys play because you could really see the development they gained from those Friday nights,” McConnell said.

Junior Austin Jackson will have an opportunity to start at both receiver and defensive back.

Schneider also will handle the kicking and punting.

“You just gain experience and get that leverage over maybe a junior and a senior who haven’t played varsity,” Myers said.

The Johnnies again were set to play an ambitious non-league schedule, but a fourth game with Big Walnut and a rematch with Zanesville will have to wait.

Instead, the Johnnies played

host to defending LCL-Cardinal champion Newark Catholic on Aug. 28 to begin the regular season.

“One of the things that remains the same that we’re encouraged about is the kids are working hard and have great attitudes,” Carter said.

“That is one of our foundations, because they know our baseline philosophy of what we expect. They’re willing to accept the challenge to allow us to push them.”

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

Heath

Experience up front will power Bulldogs’ offense KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE Last season’s Heath team could easily make the case that it was one of the best teams in central Ohio to miss out on making the playoffs.

The only two setbacks for the Bulldogs came against Licking Valley and Newark Catholic, and both teams made deep postseason runs.

Licking Valley lost 42-14 to Clyde in the Division IV

state championship game, and the Green Wave fell 22-15 to Harvest Prep in a Division VII regional final.

Heath wanted to leave nothing to chance this season after its 8-2 record a year ago left it percentage points shy of earning the eighth and final playoff spot in Division IV, Region 15 behind Marion-Franklin.

“We’re using that as motivation,” senior lineman Reece Duncan said before the Ohio High School Athletic Associ-

ation’s announcement that the regular season would be cut to six games and all teams would make the postseason.

“A lot of our guys are returning, and we were pretty mad about that. We want to get there this year and not come up short like we ended up last year.”

Heath’s confidence comes from a team built in coach Tim Ward’s likeness, one that relies on a strong rushing attack built on a line featuring six seniors.

That group includes Duncan,

from your friends at

2005 Hebron Rd. • Heath, OH 43056 740-334-4023

Caden Marinacci, Hunter Simmons, J.T. Lowe, Aidan Scott and Trent Lamp.

“We all know what we are doing for the most part,” Ward said.

“It makes everyone on the line more comfortable and helps our backs and our quarterback get a lot more comfortable. We have never been in that situation before where we have a senior-led offensive line, and most of them with experience coming back as a previous starter. That is huge experience.”

Senior running back Xavier Puryear emerged down the stretch of his sophomore season, and a year ago he ran for 1,101 yards with 13 touchdowns.

“We were a stronger line than what we’d had in years past, so it helped us run the ball a lot more,” Duncan said. “It definitely gives you more confidence when you’re lining up to run the ball.”

Seniors Dane Hogue and Hayden Wiley are competing

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28..........................vs. Utica *Sept. 4 ...................at Northridge *Sept. 11........vs. Newark Catholic *Sept. 18.................at Johnstown Sept. 25....................at Zanesville *Oct. 2 ................... vs. Lakewood 2019 RESULTS (8-2 overall, 3-1 in LCL-Cardinal) Liberty Union..................W, 43-20 Licking Valley ..................L, 29-10 North Union ...................W, 22-21 Licking Heights ................W, 26-7 Lakewood........................W, 53-0 Watkins Memorial ............W, 35-7 *Utica.............................. W, 47-0 *Northridge ....................W, 48-14

at quarterback to replace threeyear starter Austin Morrow.

“Dane is a guy competing for that quarterback position, and no matter who we put there is going to be a guy that brings a run threat also,” Ward said.

“Hayden Wiley is another senior who has run the show for us at the j.v. level the last three years. He’s done everything we’ve wanted him to do. He

*Newark Catholic ............L, 41-16 *Johnstown ...................W, 17-13 *League contest INSIDE THE BULLDOGS •Coach: Tim Ward, fourth season •Top players: Dane Hogue (QB/LB), Xavier Puryear (RB/LB), J.T. Lowe (OL), Caden Marinacci (OL), Hunter Simmons (OL), Reece Duncan (OL), Hayden Wiley (QB/DB),Hunter Postelwaite (LB), Gavin Postelwaite (DL), Ashton Snedeker (DL) and Keylan Williams (WR) •Key losses: Austin Morrow, Cortez Hatem, Justin Hartman and Reid Bonham

is nipping right on Dane's heels and really trying to create an opportunity to find himself on the field.”

Also expected to play a key role on offense is junior Keylan Williams, who had five touchdown catches last season.

On defense, the line will fea-

BULLDOGS >> 52

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Lakewood

Taking next step is focus for Lancers

By DAVE WEIDIG NEWARK ADVOCATE

Senior Games Claggett leads linemen through an agility drill. The Green Wave are coming off a season in which they finished 9-4 and reached a Division VII regional final. KURT SNYDER/NEWARK ADVOCATE

Newark Catholic

Lofty goals remain the norm

By KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE

So much for a normal offseason for Newark Catholic coach Ryan Aiello.

The Green Wave played a game without scrimmaging in 2018 during Aiello’s first season, then changed their Week 1 opponent in late July a year ago. The coronavirus pandemic threw the offseason into disarray for all teams this year, however, and the Green Wave finally are not starting at a disadvantage under Aiello.

“We have to master everything we’re doing right now,” senior Matthew Smith said.

“We’re doing everything very well compared to how we were doing last year. This is the only year we have actually had a playbook from the previous year.”

Newark Catholic started 12 last season, but wins in eight of their next nine games gave them the Licking County League-Cardinal Division title and a trip to a Division VII regional final, where they lost 22-15 to Harvest Prep.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28..................at Johnstown *Sept. 5...................vs. Lakewood *Sept. 11.........................at Heath *Sept. 19 ................vs. Northridge Sept. 25............at Licking Heights *Oct. 2 ............................vs. Utica 2019 RESULTS (9-4 overall, 4-0 in LCL-Cardinal) Edon..............................W, 35-29 Columbus Academy ........L, 21-13 Paint Valley .....................L, 33-21 Watkins Memorial ............W, 21-0 Licking Heights ..............W, 24-21 *Utica ..............................W, 56-6 *Johnstown....................W, 21-10 Licking Valley..................L, 42-14 *Heath ...........................W, 41-16

Despite key graduation losses – including All-Ohioans Matt Carlisle, Slater Evans and Nate Williams – Aiello believes his team has the potential to match or even exceed those accomplishments.

“From a schematic standpoint, we’re further ahead than we have ever been. This is the first year where we have consistency in our schemes, which

*Northridge ....................W, 35-14 PLAYOFFS Reedsville Eastern............W, 35-7 Shadyside........................W, 40-0 Harvest Prep...................L, 22-15 *League contest INSIDE THE GREEN WAVE •Coach: Ryan Aiello, third season •Top players: Drew Hess (RB/DL), David Roshon (OL/DL), Games Claggett (OL), Ryan Poly (LB), Ryan Auer (K), Cole Canter (QB/DB/P), Brandon Buchanan (WR/LB), Chance Brooks (TE/LB), Tanner Elwell (WR/DB), Tristan Gorius (RB). Brendan Sheehan (RB/LB) •Key losses: Matt Carlisle, Slater Evans, Derek Hawk, Nate Williams

is huge,” Aiello said. “The thing we’re battling is trying to find a way to get back into rhythm and back into playing shape.

“Not having 7-on-7s and the ability to do scrimmages, you don’t have that eye test.

You don’t have the ability to watch film and compare yourself against an opponent.

That’s where a little bit of the second-guessing comes into

from your friends at

2005 Hebron Rd. • Heath, OH 43056 740-334-4023

play, but nonetheless, I do like the progress with our kids’ attitudes and how they have been approaching this fall camp.”

Leading the way up front will be seniors David Roshon, Games Claggett and Paul Jewett along with juniors Cole Sherburne and Daniel Gray, who was injured in Week 1 last season.

“The whole team has been putting in the necessary work to compete with our opponents,” Jewett said. “We’re blessed to have a season at all, and everybody out here is just really excited to play football.”

The strength of the defense should be its athleticism, with senior Drew Hess, who was Special Mention all-state, providing pressure from the edge, and Smith joining junior Chance Brooks and sophomore Brendan Sheehan at linebacker.

“We’ve moved (Smith) around in comparison to the past two years, and he’s a senior,” Aiello said. “He’s stepping up and showing more of a leadership role. I’m excited about what he’s going to bring to this team this year.”

Seniors Ryan Poly and Tyson Mummey each had interceptions in a playoff shutout of Shadyside last season and again should help to slow down opponents’ passing games.

Junior Brandon Buchanan will see action on defense, and he and classmate Tanner Elwell will be at receiver on offense.

GREEN WAVE >> 54

As Lakewood “continues the climb,” coach Jason Lee knows the Lancers must do a better job of running the football in 2020.

With all the members of an offensive line that features both size and experience returning from a team that won its last two games, Lakewood hopes to find the necessary balance for a breakthrough this fall.

“In the games we won, we ran the ball,” said Lee, whose squad has 13 seniors. “We want a balanced attack, even though we run the ‘air raid’ offense.”

Returning up front are a pair of senior three-year starters in 6-foot-5, 280-pound Trace Ford and 6-0, 295-pound Ryan Hammon. Also back are seniors Kevin Haines (6-0, 230) and Brandon Peters (5-9, 215) and junior Mark Waters (5-9, 215).

“The whole front is interchangeable, and we’ve also added depth,” Lee said. “(Junior) Kaleb Fellure goes 250 and you have freshman Keegan Jacks, who is a great wrestler and weighs 240.

(Junior) Eli Dornbier (6-1, 300) will also help.”

The play up front will be key, as senior Ryan Ogilbee (6-0, 190) takes over at quarterback for four-year starter Connor Vierstra, who is now at Marietta College.

“I’ve tried to improve on my throwing and my footwork, when taking drops,” said Ogilbee, who played receiver a year ago. “Our senior class is a strength and we’re strong all over the field. We have a lot of returners, and we want to keep this streak going.”

“Ryan is an athlete who wanted to give it a shot,” Lee said. “He knows the system from being a receiver, and he’s gotten better at throwing the football. He also knows when to tuck it and run.”

His teammates have confidence that Ogilbee will be able to make the transition to running the offense.

“Ogilbee has come a long way,” said senior Zeb Mansker, a three-year letterwinner who has played primarily on defense but will also split out as a receiver. “He was a little stick as a freshman, but he’s worked hard, filled out and gotten stronger. He’s a great leader and can handle adversity.”

“Ogilbee and I know each

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28..............vs. Northridge *Sept. 5 .......at Newark Catholic *Sept. 11 .............at Johnstown *Sept. 18.....................vs. Utica Sept. 25..........vs. Licking Valley *Oct. 2.........................at Heath 2019 RESULTS (3-7 overall, 1-3 in LCL-Buckeye) River View .....................L, 19-7 Fairfield Union ............W, 27-20 Wellston........................L, 30-7 Northridge...................L, 41-13 Heath............................L, 53-0 *Licking Valley...............L, 47-6 *Licking Heights ..........L, 39-14 *Granville ......................L, 36-0 *Watkins Mem.....W, 29-28 (OT) Utica ..........................W, 41-14 *League contest INSIDE THE LANCERS •Coach: Jason Lee, fourth season •Top players: Ryan Ogilbee (QB/LB), Ryan Hammon (OL/DL), Colt Vierstra (WR/DB), Zeb Mansker (WR/DL), Trace Ford (OL/DL), Kevin Haines (OL/DL), Robby Taylor (RB/LB), Mark Waters (OL/LB), Brandon Allen (WR/DB) •Key losses: Connor Vierstra, Connor Roesink, Noah Sniadach

other and we’ll build that bond,” senior wideout Colt Vierstra said. “He has a good football IQ.” Vierstra (6-3, 190) and junior Brandon Allen bring plenty of experience at receiver.

“Colt comes in with like 60 receptions and will be our main guy,” Lee said. “Allen had two big catches last year.

Matt Smith (6-3 sophomore) is athletic and long, has speed and can stretch defenses.

Mansker (6-0, 205) makes plays out there, Colt Flowers has a lot of speed and Christian Martinez will contribute.”

Lee calls his backfield “young but talented.” Robby Taylor (5-11, 185) is a senior letterwinner, but also in the mix are sophomores Josh Hicks, Josh Taylor and Kyle Letki as well as freshman Isaiah Mitchell. Letki is also the team’s kicker.

“We’re not sure who the main guy is, but it’s some good competition,” Lee said.

Mansker was hurt part of the season last year, but the Lancers won when he came back to help lead the defense.

“He’s a great pass rusher,” Lee said. “He’s a monster who causes havoc. We’ll be interchangeable up there with some depth.”

“We’ve changed our defense to a three-man front.

We’ve definitely gotten better on defense. We’ve

LANCERS >> 52

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L ICKING C OUNTY L EAGUE

Vikings not fazed by challenging summer

By KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE The disjointed summer caused by COVID-19 presented Northridge with more challenges than most teams.

The school district took a more conservative timeline through the suggested phased return to sports during June, and the Vikings then stepped back for a week in July.

Still, coach Jay Campbell found a way to turn the situation facing the Vikings into an asset.

"We did it by position, so guys could compete within their groups. That helped, and we were able to get more work in from it. We have a couple new coaches this year, and they mentioned how the pods helped them get to know some kids better,” said Campbell, noting the return of former head coach Tim Priest as defensive coordinator.

“This year, we’ve had to slow things down just a little bit,” Campbell added. “We have a handful of kids who are ready to go, but we’ve had

to teach a little bit and then continue to push our expectations of full-out effort in practice. That is not something kids have become accustomed to expect, especially the younger kids.”

On top of the pandemic, the Northridge district also is in the midst of a school construction project that has closed off some areas to sports teams.

“We have some facility limitations, at least for right now, and our guys have handled it really well,” Campbell said.

“They’ve practiced really hard, and they’ve never complained about it or made any excuses.

They’ve just gotten after it.”

Because competitive opportunities were not permitted under the state’s guidelines, Northridge had to focus on individualized training with its young roster.

An advantage of the small groups was the ability to split players up by position. Senior Aidan Isler and junior Isaiah Hartman, who will anchor the offensive and defensive lines, had an opportunity to develop bonds with younger team-

WARRIORS FROM >> 42

son-Perry likely will be called on in short-yardage situations. Junior Jermaine Townsend is another option in the backfield.

Seniors Jalen Davis and Rashaun Goines give the Warriors a pair of experienced wide receivers and senior Manny Mullens returns at tight end.

Senior Patrick Moore Graves and junior Avery Garner are at guard and senior Michael Dungy and junior Joe Johnson at tackle. Senior Omar Martinez and sophomore Xavier Cain are options at center.

DEFENSE

Gibson-Perry will lead the defense from his middle linebacker spot while Kee and junior Joseph Temple, another returnee, are others at linebacker.

Davis and junior Chandler Burrell will line up at end, with Dungy and Mullens at tackle.

Senior Sylvanus Kent and Carroll are at cornerback, with senior returnee Neiko St. Clair at free safety and Goines at strong safety.

Mullens and Goines were first-team all-district and Temple was special mention all-district.

Freshman J.J. DeCarlo is another linebacker with potential, according to Smith.

“I like our defense,” Smith said.

“We really have two young kids that have come out and have really excited us, one on offense and one on defense.

If all these guys weren’t back, (DeCarlo would) probably be playing more.”

The biggest graduation losses on defense were linemen Khelin Jackson and Elijah Rogers, who were firstteam all-district and second-team allstate.

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28...................at Lakewood *Sept. 4 .........................vs. Heath *Sept. 11..........................at Utica *Sept. 19.........at Newark Catholic Sept. 25 ................at Shenandoah *Oct. 2 ...................vs. Johnstown 2019 RESULTS (2-8 overall, 1-3 in LCL-Cardinal) East Knox .........................L, 41-0 Shenandoah ...................L, 28-14 Centerburg .........................L, 7-6 Lakewood......................W, 41-13 Licking Valley....................L, 63-0 *Johnstown ....................L, 41-10 Granville ...........................L, 40-7

mates as a result, according to Campbell. “(Isler) has always worked extremely hard but was more quiet,” said Campbell, who also hopes senior Adam Ulrey can return from an injury to bolster the line. “This year (Isler) has taken more of a vocal role and done a good job of bringing some of our younger kids along and getting them to understand the expectations of how we are going to practice and trying

SPECIAL TEAMS

Harvest Prep entered its opener unsure of who would handle the punting and kicking, although Carroll could end up filling the latter role.

Goines returns as the primary punt returner, with Jennings again serving as a kickoff returner.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Aden Rogers (so., 6-1, 185), Josiah Carroll (sr., 6-0, 155), Terrence Kee (sr., 5-11, 210) Runniing back Runn ckss: *Jaylen Jennings (jr., 5-11, 180), *Phillip Gibson-Perry (sr., 6-0, 215), Jermaine Townsend (jr., 5-9, 170) Receivers: *Jalen Davis (sr., 6-2, 200), *Rashaun Goines (sr., 5-11, 175) Tight end: *Manny Mullens (sr., 6-3, 260) H-back: Shawn Ruffin (sr., 5-8, 165) Linemen: *Michael Dungy (sr., 61, 250), *Avery Garner (jr., 6-3, 270), *Joe Johnson (jr., 6-7, 300), *Patrick Moore Graves (sr., 5-11, 250), Xavier Cain (so., 6-2, 265), Omar Martinez (sr., 5-10, 175) Defense Linemen: *Chandler Burrell (jr., 511, 190), *Davis, *Dungy, *Mullens, E.J. Pierce (fr., 5-11, 170) Linebackers: *Gibson-Perry, *Kee, *Joseph Temple (jr., 5-10, 195), J.J. DeCarlo (fr., 5-8, 180) Secondary: *Carroll, *Goines, *Sylvanus Kent (sr., 5-9, 165), *Neiko St. Clair (sr., 5-10, 165) Special teams Kicker: Carroll Punter: To be determined Returners: *Goines, *Jennings Long snapper: *Moore Graves (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

*Heath ............................L, 48-14 *Utica ............................W, 49-12 *Newark Catholic ............L, 35-14 *League contest INSIDE THE VIKINGS •Coach: Jay Campbell, fourth season •Top players: Aidan Isler (OL/DL), Will Holt (RB/DB/P), Adam Ulery (OL/DL), Isaiah Hartman (TE/DL), Dalton Hildebrand (WR/DB), J.D. Miller (RB/LB), Nic Minder (WR/LB), Lane Hess (WR/DB), Carl Ferguson (QB) •Key losses: Jake Reese, Cole Fox, Dylon Parman, Dustin Chalfant

to get as many reps and being focused.”

While players who formed the core of the Northridge program during Campbell’s first three seasons have moved on, including All-Ohio selections Dylon Parman and Jake Reese, those departures provide an opportunity for new leaders to emerge. The Vikings graduated well over 100 games of varsity experience.

“I see, honestly, a better overall team,” senior defen-

sive back Dalton Hildebrand said. “I feel like we’re more of a family than we’ve been in years past. I feel like that will bring us a lot further. I can rely on the other guys to do their duties while I do mine.

On and off the field, these guys are my family.”

Junior J.D. Miller saw his opportunities increase as the 2019 season went on, and he is ready to take over as a primary option in Northridge’s run-oriented wing-T offense.

Miller and senior Will Holt will be key players at linebacker for the Vikings.

“Even though I played a lot last year, I will have even more opportunity to help the team in any way I can,” Miller said.

Sophomores Lane Hess and Carl Ferguson also are expected to be contributors on offense.

Hess has big-play capability each time he touches the ball, according to Campbell, and Ferguson could become the fixture at quarterback the Vikings have not had during Campbell’s tenure.

“Hess is stepping up and

probably will carry the ball quite a bit in our backfield. I look forward to seeing what he can produce this year,” Campbell said. “Carl Ferguson is probably leading the pack for us at quarterback. He moves very well, and we’re really excited about the potential that he has.”

While the running game will remain the focus of Northridge’s offense, Ferguson’s continued development and the play of Hildebrand and junior Nic Minder at receiver could add a passing element.

With Northridge no longer being required to play Licking County League-Buckeye Division foes Licking Valley and Granville, the schedule appears more balanced this season.

“I am excited to lead the youngins to get them on the right path, so that when I’m gone they can carry on and just continue the chain,” Miller said.

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

BARONS

FROM >> 39

Holquist is a returning starter at center. Senior Nathan Peak and Skinner are guards while Hatcher holds down one tackle spot.

Senior Hunter Clements and junior Carson Vaulx were vying to be the other starting tackle throughout August.

“It’s good to have a lot of seniors there,” Stephens said. “Dodds should be a big weapon for us. He’s a little guy (5-5, 140) and super fast. He caught everything for us last year.

Teams came out and tried to identify where he was and take him out, not so much with bracket coverage but opponents would set defenses to him.”

DEFENSE

Vaulx returns as one of the defense’s leaders, as he recorded 86 tackles – 24 of which were solo – and two fumble recoveries last year.

The Barons graduated their second- and third-leading tacklers in Andy Anthony (83) and Ed Reely (72). Anthony was the starting quarterback for most of last season and Reely walked on at Akron. Ash had 40 tackles, including two sacks, and has moved from linebacker to defensive end.

Senior Jake Henwood and freshman Carson McComis were the other expected starters at linebacker.

Clements and junior Landon DeWitt flank Ash on the line.

“Our starting linebackers (last

year) were going to be j.v. players but they stepped up and grew as the season went on,” Stephens said. “(Ash) gives us a bigger, faster presence for a pass rush. With him being on both sides of the ball, we have to be careful not to wear him down.

“We’re probably going to rotate six or seven guys on the line. They have to know multiple positions and be interchangeable parts. We did it last year.

“All our offensive linemen know all three of the spots, (and it’s the) same with our defensive linemen.

Mentally, we’ve put a lot on them but most of the kids know multiple positions and know them well.”

Seniors Ben Fisher and Smothers, junior Anthony Hughes and sophomore Mitchell Melfe anchor the secondary. Fisher, Hughes and Melfe are cornerbacks and Smothers leads a deep group of safeties.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Felipe Scharff is in his fourth season as the kicker and will split time with classmate Bryan Perrine. Both are members of the soccer team.

Ash averaged 36.5 yards per punt, and also will lead the return game with Dodds and Smothers.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Anthony Hughes (sr., 6-0, 180), Alex Contreras (jr., 6-0, 179)

Running backs: *Andre Ash (sr., 6-0, 222), *Jake Smothers (jr., 5-11, 180), *Will Weinberg (sr., 5-10, 210) Receivers: *Contreras, *Dalton Dodds (jr., 5-5, 140), Cam McComis (sr., 6-0, 185) Linemen: *Keegan Allen (sr., 61, 300), *Hunter Clements (sr., 61, 205), *Mason Hatcher (sr., 6-4, 275), *Fletcher Holquist (sr., 6-2, 210), *Zane Skinner (sr., 6-1, 305), Nathan Peak (sr., 5-8, 250), Carson Vaulx (jr., 6-0, 190) ight ends: *Zane Lucas (jr., 5Tight 9, 185), Weinberg Defense Linemen: *Ash, *Clements, *Landon DeWitt (jr., 5-6, 175), Allen, Hatcher, Skinner Linebackers: *Jake Henwood (sr., 6-0, 185), *Carson McComis (fr., 5-6, 128), *Vaulx, *Weinberg Secondary: *Ben Fisher (sr., 5-7, 150), *Hughes, *Mitchell Melfe (so., 6-2, 165), *Smothers, Garrett Carey (so., 6-0, 170), Brady Ridder (so., 6-0, 145) Special teams Kickers: *Felipe Scharff (sr., 56, 155), Alex Landis (so., 5-6, 160), Bryan Perrine (sr., 5-10, 195) Punter: *Ash Returners: *Ash, *Dodds, Smothers Long sn snaappers: *Holquist, Landon Froehlich (fr., 5-8, 150), Vaulx (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

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Northridge

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Utica

Seniors working toward memorable season

By KURT SNYDER NEWARK ADVOCATE The core of a 16-member senior class at Utica has been with coach Charlie Rowley since the beginning of his tenure in 2018, and those players are determined to close their high school careers on a positive note.

“This year we know what to expect because we’ve been doing the same thing for three years now,” senior quarterback Collin McCullough said.

“We have a sturdy foundation to build off of. For a lot of us, it's go time. We’re stepping it into high gear, realizing we only have six or seven games at the most.”

According to Rowley, knowing what to expect has made the preseason more productive for his team.

“Our install and understanding of what we are trying to do is so much better. Our install is faster and smoother,” he said. “That is just guys being in our program for a couple years. Guys are working hard, and we are embracing every day.”

McCullough is one of many reasons to give Rowley hope, as he threw for 917 yards and eight touchdowns despite often facing heavy pressure. Sophomore Zach Heckman will be the backup for the three-year starter.

The Redskins must replace graduate Ethan Adams, but senior Clayton Cummons

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 28 .........................at Heath *Sept. 4..................vs. Johnstown *Sept. 11 ................vs. Northridge *Sept. 18..................at Lakewood Sept. 25.......vs. Watkins Memorial *Oct. 2 ............at Newark Catholic 2019 RESULTS (0-10 overall, 0-4 in LCL-Cardinal) Centerburg .......................L, 52-6 East Knox .......................L, 68-15 Fredericktown.................L, 42-20 Licking Valley....................L, 61-0 Granville ...........................L, 63-0 *Newark Catholic ..............L, 56-6 *Heath..............................L, 47-0

Senior Clayton Cummons returns at tight end for the Redskins, who will play host to Johnstown on Friday, Sept. 4. KURT SNYDER/NEWARK ADVOCATE

returns at tight end, and junior Seth Cooper and seniors Lincoln Valentine and Elijah LaRue, who have just joined the program, add depth at receiver. “(McCullough) is maturing more each and every year,” Rowley said. “Zach is a great athlete right there with him, and we will definitely be using him on both sides of the ball.

Those guys push each other, but they’re buddies as well.

They work really well together.”

Utica struggled to run the

ball consistently a year ago, but Rowley hopes that will change with the return of senior Brier Harris behind an offensive line that features members from all four classes.

“In a perfect world, I would be 50 percent run and 50 percent pass, but we have to establish the run,” Rowley said. “You win high school games by running the football and playing great defense, and we have to make big, big improvements on both of those from last year.

144-for-252 passing for 2,418 yards with 24 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also ran for 342 yards and 11 touchdowns on 80 carries.

Also not returning in order to focus on basketball is junior wide receiver D.J. Moore, who had 52 receptions for 1,123 yards and 12 touchdowns. Moore committed in July to play collegiately at Liberty University.

DEFENSE

Anderson is a linebacker who also was one of the top players on defense last season when he finished with 62.5 tackles and 12 tackles for loss.

Carrell (53 tackles), junior Daelon Johnston (53 tackles, 6 tackles for loss) and junior Tyler White are other linebackers.

Burford, Fourman and Hoheisel lead the defensive line. Burfurd had 16 tackles, Hoheisel had 33 tackles and five tackles for loss and Fourman had 28.5 tackles and 6.5 tackles for loss a year ago..

Reynolds, who had 35 tackles and two interceptions, returns to lead the secondary.

looking pretty good,” McCullough said. “They’re always blocking and putting 100 percent, making sure we get what we need done.”

Utica continues to work on developing depth, but the Redskins will need their best players to remain on the field to play defense.

Parsons and Cummons will lead the way up front, and seniors Shane Weakley and Valyn Dague will be joined at linebacker by junior Justin Riley, who has rejoined the program after sitting out last season.

The added strength at linebacker allows junior Brock Wygle to move back to safety alongside Heckman.

“Definitely the first game when I went in to make a tackle, I got absolutely crushed. That's when you realize it’s not middle school foot-

ball anymore,” Heckman said.

“This year, we’re stepping up and going 100 percent every day because we don't know when it's going to end.”

The Ohio High School Athletic Association’s change to a six-game regular season means Utica has lost its earlyseason matchups with three of its former Mid-Buckeye Conference foes.

The Redskins began Licking County League-Cardinal Division play when they opened Aug. 28 against Heath.

“The seniors know the expectations,” Rowley said.

“They have expectations for themselves and this team.

Those guys are ready to get out there and get rolling. I like the mentality of our team.”

Flowers, Mitchell and Martinez also vying for playing time.

The Lancers are making progress in increasing the size of the roster, as there were more than 30 players in the top three grades during the preseason along with 16 freshmen.

“We have a lot more guys who can get on the field on Friday nights,” Lee said. “We can play 20-22 kids, even 24, instead of our usual 15-16.”

The two victories at the end of 2019 provided Lakewood

with momentum heading into a season facing the uncertainty of COVID-19.

“Our morale has changed a lot,” Ford said. “Last year, we started off dead, but we took the two wins into this offseason and we came back ready to go.”

“This is a big season for us,” Lee said. “We need to continue to climb, get over the hump and have a winning season.”

Payton Lees will lead the linebacker corps, and Wiley should start at free safety. Other potential starters in the secondary include juniors Ar'Moni McCrae and Riley Gould.

“In years past, we would mess up plays a lot and have to re-do them over and over, but now we have probably done the same play three or four times and we feel like we have it right,” Wiley said. “We have so much experience returning that things are a lot easier.”

The Bulldogs, who were

scheduled to open Aug. 28 against Utica, expect to battle Newark Catholic and Johnstown for the Licking County League-Cardinal Division title.

“We talk all of the time about potential versus reality,” Ward said. “Last year, we were potentially a playoff team all year long, but the reality is we weren’t. Our goals every year are to win the league and make the playoffs.”

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

LANCERS

WARRIORS

FROM >> 45

“Hopefully, we can throw the ball around a little bit, and we think we can, but we can't just be one-dimensional. We have to be able to run to throw.”

The line will include senior Tanner Parsons, junior Hayden Shaver, sophomore Jordan Hartman and freshman Dylan Cooperider.

“We have a solid group of older wide receivers who are going to help a lot, and we have four returning linemen that are just working their tails off right now. Overall, we’re

*Johnstown ....................L, 56-18 *Northridge .....................L, 49-12 Lakewood.......................L, 41-14 *League contest INSIDE THE REDSKINS •Coach: Charlie Rowley, third season •Top players: Collin McCullough (QB), Tanner Parsons (OL/DL), Clayton Cummons (TE/DL), Brier Harris RB/LB), Shane Weakley (RB/LB), Valyn Dague (RB/LB), Brock Wygle (RB/DB), Jordan Riley (OL/LB), Zach Heckman (QB/DB) •Key losses: Ethan Adams, Nick Martinsen

Gray, junior Aaron Eisel and Lassiter will play in the secondary.

“Braden Anderson is hopefully someone who is going to be considered for all-state by the end of the year,” Hartings said. “Burford and Hoheisel are both good enough to be alldistrict. Jaiden Reynolds has got the talent to be an all-state performer. He’s bigger, faster and stronger than last year. Josh Carrell is a stud middle linebacker as a sophomore and if I do a good job of coaching him, he’ll go to the next level.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Grant Woodfin returns at kicker after making four field goals and 32 extra points last season.

Junior Adam Dunson replaces Lucas Hartings at punter.

Reynolds was on the kickoff return team last season and should be among those in that role again.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: Cayden Lassiter (so., 5-8, 160), Hobie Raikes (fr., 5-4, 153) Running backs: *Braden

Anderson (sr., 6-0, 185), Tyler White (jr., 5-11, 160), Ethan Albert (so., 5-9, 155), Jordan Gray (so., 5-4, 160) Receivers: *Jaiden Reynolds (jr., 5-11, 163), Hunter Anderson (fr., 5-4, 106). Aaron Eisel (jr., 6-0, 150), Gray, Connor Lassiter (fr., 5-2, 120) H-back: *Correll Amsbaugh (so., 6-2, 180) Linemen: *Jeb Burford (sr., 6-0, 263), *Josh Carrell (so., 6-0, 190), *Chase Fourman (sr., 5-10, 180), *Zach Hoheisel (sr., 6-0, 230), *Blake Kessler (so., 5-11, 245) Defense Linemen: *Burford, *Fourman, *Hoheisel, Dauda Diakite (jr., 6-0, 161) Linebackers: *Anderson, *Carrell, *White, Amsbaugh, Daelon Johnston (jr., 6-1, 208) Secondary: *Eisel, *Gray, *Cayden Lassiter, *Reynolds Special teams Kicker: *Grant Woodfin (jr., 5-7, 135) Punter: *Adam Dunson (jr., 5-7, 155) Returner: *Reynolds Long snapper: *Burford (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

FROM >> 50

improved a lot,” said Mansker, who will be joined up front

by Haines and Hammon. Also expected to see action on the defensive line are Ford, Dornbier, Fellure and Jacks.

Replacing last year’s linebackers will be a key for the Lancers, with Waters, Robby Taylor and Ogilbee being counted on as starters.

The secondary will be led by returning letterwinners Vierstra at safety and Allen at cornerback, with Josh Taylor,

dweidig@nncogannett.com @noz75

BULLDOGS

FROM >> 49

ture juniors Gavin Postelwaite and Ashton Snedeker and senior Ethan Spellman.

“Unbelievably, (Snedeker) looks like he has thinned down in the offseason, but he has actually gained about 15 pounds,” Ward said. “His work in the weight room and his running work is really coming along. He’s a guy we expect huge things from.”

Senior Hunter Postelwaite, Hogue and Puryear and junior

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

53

O THER AREA TEAMS

Club team excited to have shot at title

By JARROD ULREY THISWEEKSPORTS.COM

At a glance

When Jeff Blankson was first asked by a classmate about whether he might be interested in playing football, all he knew at the time was that he might have to “run and catch the ball.”

A little more than a year later, the Cristo Rey senior couldn’t imagine where he’d be if he hadn’t given the Columbus Crusaders club team a chance.

“It’s just a brotherhood and getting to fight with my brothers on the field,” Blankson said. “Last year was my first year ever playing football but I’ve tried to recruit all the people because our school doesn’t have a football team. I tried it and actually liked it.”

The Crusaders have one game scheduled this fall against an OHSAA program, Oct. 9 when they are set to play Stewart Federal Hocking, but they have goals beyond just the regular season after joining the Great Lakes Christian Athletic Conference (GLCAC) last season.

According to second-year coach Paul Dwyer, the top two teams in each division of the GLCAC advance to the Christian Athletic League playoffs, which has a semifinal round and a championship game.

Last season, Columbus went 5-5 overall and 3-2 in the GLCAC but came up short of making the playoffs.

The Crusaders have four other players who attend Cristo Rey and athletes from schools including Delaware Christian, Genoa Christian, Akili Christian and Focus Learning Academy which don’t have football.

There also are 15 home-schooled students as well as players from

2020 SCHEDULE *Aug. 22 ..............vs. Middletown Christian Aug. 29 ....at Indianapolis Crimson Knights Sept. 5......vs. Cincinnati Dohn Community Sept. 12 ........at Saline (Mich.) Washtenaw Saints Sept. 19.......vs. Greater Columbus Athletic Association *Sept. 26 ..............at Cincinnati Landmark Christian Eagles *Oct. 3 ..............vs. Noblesville (Ind.) Lions Oct. 9..............at Stewart Federal Hocking *Oct. 17 .....at Harlan (Ind.) Tri-State King’s Crusaders Oct. 24......vs. Elkhart (Ind.) Osceola Grace 2019 RESULTS (5-5 overall) *Middletown Christian .....................L, 7-6 Reigning Sports Academy..............L, 20-0 Cincinnati Dohn Community...........L, 12-0 KIPP Columbus............................L, 30-15

OHSAA schools which do have football but elected not to compete for their high schools.

Columbus, which opened Aug. 22 at home against Middletown Christian, play their home games at the Church at Polaris.

The other teams in the Crusaders’ league are the Cincinnati Landmark Christian Eagles, the Noblesville (Indiana) Lions and the Harlan (Indiana) Tri-State King’s Crusaders.

“We were 5-5 last year but we started out 0-4 so we finished well,” Dwyer said. “We actually tied with Landmark Christian last season but they beat us head-to-head and ended up going to the playoffs. I was really proud of the kids that we finished really strong and I was really proud of the season.

“We’ve never had an opportunity to play for any type of championship so it’s exciting for our kids to be able to (have an opportunity) to play for a championship. Compared to other

Big Rock (Ill.) Crossroads Crusaders .................................................W, 26-22 *Landmark Christian Eagles...........L, 18-7 *Harlan (Ind.) Tri-State King’s Crusaders ...................................................W, 33-0 *Griffith (Ind.) Calumet Christian ....W, 34-7 *Wayne (Mich.) Downriver Wolfpack ..................................................W, forfeit Noblesville (Ind.) ..................Lions W, 26-6 *League contest INSIDE THE CRUSADERS •Coach: Paul Dwyer, second season •Top players: Jeffrey Blankson (WR/DB), Maurice Diawera (WR/DBL), Markus Frazier (RB/DB), Mohamed Kamara (DB/WR), Jake Medas (LB/TE/QB), Mike Medas (OL/LB), David Pacheco (DL/TE/QB) and Jack South (QB) •Key losses: Blayne Birhanzl, Robert Christian, Tayshaun Henderson, Marcus Horsley, Logan Lang, John LaPat, Reggie Pace and Darius Thrweatt

teams in the league we’ve got really good numbers with 33 players, which is 10 more than last year. I’m really pleased.”

OFFENSE

Dwyer expects his team’s offense to gradually improve as it gets healthier.

Junior Jack South is a homeschooled athlete expected to be the full-time quarterback, but he spent much of the preseason recovering from a broken collarbone.

Genoa Christian sophomore Jackson DeBolt and Thomas Worthington junior David Pacheco also are at quarterback.

Senior Markus Frazier, who attends Focus Learning Academy, and Westerville North senior Jahi Glass are newcomers who are at running back. They replace 2020 graduate Reggie Pace, a Division VII first-team all-district defensive back who also rushed for 861 yards and

had 128 receiving yards with five touchdowns.

“Reggie was a great running back last year but he didn’t have the speed that these guys have,” Dwyer said.

“It’ll be interesting to see how well they do with the inside running game.

If we can get them outside there won’t be a problem.”

Blankson has received interest according to Dwyer from the University of Findlay, which is the same school where 2011 Horizon Science graduate and former Crusaders competitor Harold Jones-Quartey played.

Cristo Rey junior Mohamed Kamara and home-schooled junior Cade Moses are others at wide receiver, with home-schooled junior Jake Medas and Pacheco at HBack.

Home-schooled senior Mike Medas is at left guard, home-schooled junior Vonnie Johnson is at right guard, home-schooled senior John LaPat is at right tackle and Cristo Rey junior Stanley Asante is at center.

DEFENSE

Beechcroft senior Zyon Sheppard and Pacheco are at defensive end, with home-schooled junior Greg Valentine expected to see time at both linebacker and on the line.

Mike Medas and Jake Medas both are at inside linebacker.

DeBolt, Glass and home-schooled junior Chase Heissner are at outside linebacker, with Frazier and Kamara at cornerback and Blankson at safety.

Pace and linebacker Logan Lang, who finished with 73 and 57 tackles, respectively, last season, were the biggest losses defensively.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Whetstone junior Maurice Diaw-

era is a newcomer who is serving as kicker and punter, with Pacheco and South also options in the kicking game.

Blankson and Frazier return punts and kickoffs and Kamara is another punt returner, while Glass is on the kickoff return team.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jack South (jr., 65, 200), Jackson DeBolt (so., 5-10, 164), David Pacheco (jr., 5-9, 215) Running backs: *Markus Frazier (sr., 5-8, 152), Jahi Glass (sr., 5-7, 135) Receivers: *Jeffrey Blankson (sr., 6-3, 193), *Mohamed Kamara (jr., 5-8, 130), Cade Moses (jr., 5-7, 128) H-backs: *Jake Medas (jr., 6-2, 180), Pacheco Linemen: *Stanley Asante (jr., 57, 229), *Vonnie Johnson (jr., 6-2, 216), *John LaPat (sr., 5-9, 180), *Mike Medas (sr., 5-10, 190), *Greg Valentine (jr., 6-1, 258) Defense Linemen: *Pacheco, *Zyon Sheppard (sr., 6-2, 214), Valentine Linebackers: *Austin DeBolt (sr., 5-10, 164), *Glass, *Jake Medas, *Mike Medas, Jackson DeBolt, Chase Heissner (jr., 6-0, 152), Valentine Secondary: *Blankson, *Frazier, *Kamara Special teams Kicker: *Maurice Diawera (jr., 64, 167) Punters: *Diawera, Pacheco Returners: *Blankson, *Frazier, *Glass, *Kamara Long snappers: *Mike Medas, DeBolt (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

SILVER KNIGHTS FROM >> 42

are senior JeJuan McGowan, who rushed 59 times for 223 yards and three touchdowns, and sophomore Brian Fitzsimmons, who had 224 yards and one touchdown on 53 carries last season.

Foley is now at Baldwin Wallace after finishing with more than 4,000 career rushing yards.

Seniors P.J. Daniels (14 receptions for 193 yards, 1 TD) and Tyrese Hudson (14 receptions for 192 yards, 2 TDs) are the top returnees at wide receiver. Junior Andy Schulze also is looking to contribute.

On the offensive line, senior Cael Dent is the top returnee.

“Darius Parham has done a great job in the weight room,” Cutler said. “Brian Fitzsimmons filled in for Jack Foley when he was out last year.

“Cael Dent has an offer (from a Football Championship Subdivision program) and will be one of our tack-

At a glance 2020 SCHEDULE Aug. 28...............vs. Liberty Union Sept. 4 ..............at Buckeye Valley Sept. 11....vs. Columbus Academy Sept. 18 ...............at Harvest Prep Sept. 25....................vs. Whitehall Oct. 2.............................at Bexley 2019 RESULTS (5-5 overall) Genoa Area ......................W, 24-7 West Jefferson................L, 55-24 St. Charles ........................L, 19-7 Liberty Union..................W, 35-14 Buckeye Valley ...............W, 28-21 Columbus Academy ........L, 35-14 Harvest Prep............L, 21-15 (OT)

les along with Devon Malone. We’re moving the rest around up front, but those two are pretty solid.”

DEFENSE

Seniors Aiden Aiello, Jacob Metz, Daniels and Matthews return to lead the defense.

Aiello is at safety after leading Ready with 57 tackles and also having six tackles for loss and four pass breakups.

Metz lines up at middle linebacker after finishing with

Whitehall ........................L, 20-10 Bexley ...........................W, 35-14 Grandview .....................W, 27-14 INSIDE THE SILVER KNIGHTS •Coach: Joel Cutler, second season •Top players: Aiden Aiello (DB/WR), Cael Dent (OL/DL), Brian Fitzsimmons (RB),Tyrese Hudson (WR/DB), Cole Matthews (TE/LB), Jacob Metz (LB), JeJuan McGowan (RB/DB), Darius Parham (QB/DB) and Andy Schulze (DB/WR) •Key losses: Josh Baum,A.J. Craddock, Jacob Robinson, Donovan Sanders and Thomas Stiltner

44.5 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss and Matthews (39.5 tackles, 13 tackles for loss) and Daniels (30 tackles, six pass breakups) are at outside linebacker.

Hudson and Schulze, who had 10 and five pass breakups, respectively, and sophomore Sage Tilley join Aiello in the secondary.

Junior Conor Moore is another linebacker who contributed last season.

On the line, Cutler has high expectations for sophomore

Jared Koboi. He’ll be joined up front by Malone and McGowan, with Dent also expected to see action.

“I do like our size and athleticism,” Cutler said. “Their heart is in the right place. They work extremely hard. This is our last day of August camp but we ask a lot of them and we’ve come through mostly injury free. I like where our mentality is at. They’re very driven.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Ready’s kicking game will have a new look after A.J. Craddock was lost to graduation. Craddock made five of six field goals, 26 of 28 extra points and also served as the punter.

Junior Evan O’Connell, who was the junior varsity kicker and punter, will take over both roles “Evan O’Connell did all the backup and j.v. kicking last year but he’s darn good,” Cutler said. “He continues to get better.”

Aiello is expected to be the primary kickoff and punt

returner, and Hudson and Schulze also will return kicks.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Darius Parham (sr., 6-3, 180), Kaleb Schaffer (so., 6-4, 182) Running backs: *Brian Fitzsimmons (so., 5-10, 160), *JeJuan McGowan (sr., 5-9, 195), Malachi Washington (jr., 5-10, 140) Receivers: *P.J. Daniels (sr., 5-10, 170), *Tyrese Hudson (sr., 5-9, 160), Andy Schulze (jr., 5-9, 160) Tight end: *Cole Matthews (sr., 6-2, 180) Linemen: *Cael Dent (sr., 6-3, 290), *Logan Dimel (so., 6-0, 220), *Devon Malone (jr., 6-0, 260), Jacob Baum (sr., 5-6, 269), Alex Contosta (sr., 5-7, 160), Jacob Roof (sr., 6-0, 275) Defense Linemen: *Jared Koboi (so., 6-0, 170), *Malone, *McGowan, Dent Linebackers: *Daniels, *Matthews, *Jacob Metz (sr., 5-8, 215), *Conor Moore (jr., 5-10, 165), Zac McAndrews

(jr., 6-0, 190) Secondary: *Aiden Aiello (sr., 5-6, 140), *Schulze, *Sage Tilley (so., 5-10, 130), Hudson, Parham Special teams Kicker: *Evan O’Connell (jr., 5-3, 106) Punter: *O’Connell Returners: *Aiello, *Hudson, *Schulze Long snapper: *Dent (*Denotes projected starter) julrey@thisweeknews.com @UlreyThisWeek

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Columbus Crusaders

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54

FALCONS

WARRIORS

FROM >> 32

“We work well together.

We have the same strong guys and we’re all strong leaders,” Gillam said. “We know how each other blocks. We know how to work with each other and it’s helped a lot.”

Buxton started the final seven games last year, completing 80 of 155 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown.

He has grown two inches and 15 pounds since last season and now is 6-foot, 165 pounds.

“He’s grown a few inches and his arm has gotten a lot stronger. Just him being around and playing the caliber of teams he played, he has more command of the huddle,” Johnson said. “His passing has come a heck of a long way, and so has his leadership. The guys were protective of him last year. Now, he comes in and he can speak up and everybody responds. You want to see your quarterback taking command of the huddle.”

Albertini and Bockarie will primarily share the load at running back. Change-of-pace backs will include 5-11, 245pound senior fullback Andrew Owusu and junior slotback Chris Campbell.

Senior Coby Darlington leads a group of wide receivers that also includes classmate Hunter Weigand and juniors Malachi Asbury and James McCreery. O’Hearn will start at tight end.

high 78 tackles last season, including five for loss, and had two interceptions. He and Bockarie will be joined at linebacker by senior T.J. Lomax, O’Hearn and sophomore Jakob Puster. Lomax played free safety last year.

“The strength on defense is our linebackers. We return the most there and they fly around.

A lot of them are wrestlers, too,” said Johnson, who estimated that he has about 20 wrestlers in the program.

Gillam and Simiyu anchor the line as ends, flanking Dunfee at nose guard. Junior Tommy Lindsay and sophomore Louis Saggio also will see time.

Simiyu had 53 tackles and six for loss in 2019.

“We rotate quite a few guys among our three down linemen,” Johnson said. “(Manzi) will play a little bit, too. It’s a luxury. Mitchell and Reuben won’t come off the field a lot.”

Senior cornerback Xavier Dockery leads a versatile secondary with safeties McCreery and junior Edwin White, who Johnson said “is probably the fastest kid on our team.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Weigand returns as North’s punter for the second consecutive year and adds kicking duties, although he might split time there with sophomore Corey Howlett.

O’Hearn is in his third season as the long snapper.

THE LINEUP

DEFENSE

Offense Quarterback: *Wyatt Bux-

Albertini recorded a team-

ton (jr., 6-0, 165) Running backs: *Brennan Albertini (sr., 6-0, 210), *Sylvester Bockarie (sr., 5-6, 175), Chris Campbell (jr., 56, 160), Andrew Owusu (sr., 5-11, 245) Receivers: *Coby Darlington (sr., 5-9, 165), *James McCreery (jr., 5-10, 170), Malachi Asbury (jr., 5-8, 155), Hunter Weigand (sr., 6-2, 145) Tight end: *Ty O’Hearn (sr., 6-2, 203) Linemen: *Nathan Dunfee (jr., 6-1, 245), *Mitchell Gillam (sr., 6-1, 210), *Leiris Manzi (sr., 6-4, 275), *Mohammed Nasser (sr., 510, 235), *Reuben Simiyu (sr., 6-2, 240), Evan Boyd (sr., 60, 201), Dallas Reed (jr., 5-9, 175) Defense Linemen: *Dunfee, *Gillam, *Simiyu, Tommy Lindsey (jr., 5-9, 220), Louis Saggio (so.)

Linebackers: *Albertini, *Bockarie, *T.J. Lomax (sr., 6-1, 190), *O’Hearn, Jakob Puster (so., 5-9, 180) Secondary: *Xavier Dockery (sr., 5-11, 155), *Adam Ingram (so., 5-8, 145), *McCreery, *Edwin White (jr., 5-10, 160), Asbury, Campbell, Mason Montgomery (jr., 5-7, 135) Special teams Kicker: *Weigand, Corey Howlett (so., 5-10, 165) Punter: *Weigand Returners: *Darlington, *White Long snapper: *O’Hearn (*Denotes projected starter) dpurpura@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekDave

GREEN WAVE

FROM >> 50

Junior Cole Canter will be at quarterback, where he first started in Week 8 a year ago against Licking Valley. Junior Tristan Gorius and sophomore Kyle Langenbrunner are among the candidates at tailback, and Hess is the fullback.

“This is going to be a very different team,” Aiello said.

“When you lose the senior

classes we have had, those are tough kids to replace, just the leadership they bring. We’re still in the process of truly finding our identity, but we have some guys stepping up in some key areas.”

If the Green Wave find themselves in close games, senior Ryan Auer will be in his third year at kicker.

Last season ended with a roller-coaster loss in the post-

season to Harvest Prep, a game in which the Green Wave took and then lost a lead late in the game.

“It’s definitely going to stick with us, but we do our best to just move forward and on to this season,” Smith said. “It’s definitely not our main motivation.”

KSnyder@nncogannett.com @newarkkurt

RAMS

FROM >> 41

preseason and should contribute on the line.

“We told the guys it’s all hands on deck as far as the defensive line is concerned,” Lightfoot said.

“Whether it (is playing) sparingly or just spell a guy, everybody is going to have to know what’s going on if you’re a defensive lineman.”

Junior Dauvion Henderson will play inside linebacker and sophomore Jalen Townsend will play safety.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Jesus Alcauter is the kicker and punter, with Winegarner at long snapper and

Biles-Walker as a key return threat.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Melvin Scott (jr., 5-7, 125) Running backs: *Dorrin Mixon (jr., 5-7, 170), Jeremiah Harrison (jr., 5-8, 155), Dauvion Henderson (jr., 6-0, 175) Receivers: *Taron BilesWalker (jr., 5-5, 135), Kevin Jackson (jr., 5-9, 160), Jalen Townsend (so., 6-0, 150) Tight ends: *Da’ Leon Jackson (sr., 6-2, 200), Termir Mosley-Allen (sr., 6-2, 190) Linemen: *Jarell Hazziez (so., 6-0, 260), *David Wine-

garner (sr., 6-2, 190), Noah Church (sr., 6-2, 270), Brenden Cockrell (so., 6-2, 250), Paul Fetheroff (so., 5-11, 270), Steven Grant (so., 5-10, 220) Defense Linemen: *Da’ Leon Jackson, *Mosley-Allen, Jeremiah Nimmons (sr., 5-10, 205) Linebackers: *Henderson Secondary: *Biles-Walker, *Townsend Special teams Kicker: *Jesus Alcauter (jr., 5-6, 155) Punter: * Alcauter Returners: *Biles-Walker Long snapper snapper: *Winegarner (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

FROM >> 30

going on,” Fenner said. “We have a lot back from seasonending injuries and I hope it drives them to have the best season that they can.

“The kids have done a good job of doing the things that we want them to do – wear masks when we ask them, social distancing when they can, we take hand sanitizer and cleaner out to practice. They have done a good job with those things. It's a quick turnaround. You have to adapt to everything from school to football and everything in-between. Hopefully, we're able to do that.”

OFFENSE

Five offensive linemen are among the 10 starters returning to Franklin Heights’ spread attack.

They are senior Lucas Moriconi (5-10, 275) at center, senior tackles Jacob Prince (6-2, 280) and Maynard, senior guard Raine Doan (6-0, 220) and junior guard Bobby Watt (6-3, 280; honorable mention all-district).

“Our offensive line is our strength,” Fenner said. “We have six guys back who have a lot of playing experience, including Collin, who started as a sophomore. We will rely on them a lot on the offensive side.”

Junior quarterback Jeffery Beverly (honorable mention all-district, special mention all-league) is back for his third season as a starter. Last fall, he completed 98 of 174 passes for 1,306 yards with 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions and rushed for 230 yards and three scores on 41 carries.

Three starting wide receivers are back, including

junior Artrell Saunders (second-team all-league), who caught 32 passes for 292 yards and four touchdowns a year ago.

Seniors Korbin Kelly and Tommy McGeehan (10 catches, 108 yards) also are returning starters.

The backfield will feature senior Nazir Valentine, who started as a sophomore but did not play last fall. As a sophomore, he rushed for 348 yards and two touchdowns on 89 carries.

DEFENSE

The Falcons have just three starters back in their multiple-front defense, which features a 4-2-5 base.

Senior Sam Rush and Smith are back at end, and senior Adrian Bowers is back in a hybrid safety-outside linebacker position.

“We are looking good on defense,” Bowers said. “Last year, we started strong and then went downhill a little because of injuries. Now, we’re basically back and have fresh legs.”

Maynard will start at inside linebacker with senior Kentre Robinson.

“I really like our front six on defense because they are big bodies and physical kids,” Fenner said. “Although our two inside linebackers haven’t started, they aren’t new to the game because they started on the other side of the ball. I would say our lines and our front six on defense is our strength.”

Maynard said Fenner has stressed being like-minded on defense.

“Coach has been stressing attack as one,” Maynard said.

“That’s our motto. You attack as one mind and everyone attacks and does their job.

That’s how you win games.”

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterbacks: *Jeffery Beverly (jr., 6-5, 205), Tommy McGeehan (sr., 6-0, 195) R unning backs: *Nazir Valentine (sr., 6-0, 160), Adrian Bowers (sr., 6-1, 185), De’Andre Johnson (jr., 5-9, 160) Receivers: *McGeehan, *Korbin Kelly (sr., 6-2, 180), *Artrell Saunders (jr., 6-1, 195), *Giovanni Swinehart (sr., 5-8, 165), David Mejia (so., 5-8, 160), Payton McDonald (fr., 5-10, 135) T ight ends: *Jason Winkhaus (sr., 6-2, 220), Abdu Omar (sr., 6-0, 205) Linemen: *Raine Doan (sr., 6-0, 220), *Collin Maynard (sr., 6-0, 225),*Lucas Moriconi (sr., 5-10, 275), *Jacob Prince (sr., 6-2, 280), *Bobby Watt (jr., 6-3, 280), Noah Adkins (jr., 6-1, 265), Kentre Robinson (so., 5-7, 240), Gavin Holz (jr., 6-1, 270) Defense Linemen: *Sam Rush (sr., 6-1, 200), *Greg Simpson (jr., 5-10, 240), *Kenten Smith (sr., 6-3, 205), Doan, Prince, Watt, Winkhaus Linebackers:*Maynard, Linebackers: *Robinson, Omar Seconddary: *Ali Abdullahi Secon (sr., 6-0, 135), *Wonderful Ayodeji (sr., 6-2, 190), *Bowers, *Cam Lawson (so., 5-9, 150), Dylan Legge (jr., 5-6, 170), Alex Moore (so., 5-8, 170), *Saunders, Johnson, McGeehan Special teams Kicker: *Juan Damian (jr., 6-0, 170) Punter: *Beverly Returners: Lawson, Saunders, Valentine Long snapper: *Legge (*Denotes projected starter) shennen@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekHennen

WILDCATS

FROM >> 32

Mansaray at running back.

Both were second-team allleague last season.

“You don’t replace Mike Mansaray,” Christ said. “It’s going to be a committee thing.

We have some guys who can do a great job and they’re also starting elsewhere.”

Seniors Ethan Gray and Cole Holbrook and junior Tyler O’Reilly are returning starters on the line.

DEFENSE

The defense should be led by senior Zane Boszor at middle linebacker and junior Thomas Zerman at outside linebacker. Both are returning starters.

Hanna and junior Karson Lane also should see time at linebacker.

Oteng-Achamfour and senior Elvis Gyabeng will play end, and senior John Wells and O’Reilly will split time at nose guard.

Armstrong, Wheeler, Wills and senior En-brass Fofanah are key defensive backs.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Bame will serve as the kicker and punter.

Junior Karson Lane is the long snapper and Saunders, Wills and Wheeler are the leading return threats.

THE LINEUP

Offense Quarterback: *Peter Pedrozo (sr., 5-11, 175) Running backs: *Brandon Armstrong (jr., 5-9, 155), *Ethan Hanna (so., 5-10, 185), En-brass Fofanah (sr., 5-9, 155), Amar Howard (jr., 5-9, 195), Finn Jones (jr., 6-0, 210), Chaz Spencer (sr., 6-1, 205) Receivers: *Jesse DeVore (sr., 6-1, 185), *Kaden Saunders (jr., 6-0, 175), *Javi’er Wills (jr., 6-1, 190), Matthew Bame (sr., 6-1, 195), Jalen Wheeler (so., 6-0, 175) Tight ends: *Devin OtengAchamfour (sr., 5-11, 220),

Jones, Chaz Spencer (sr., 61, 205) Linemen: *Ethan Gray (sr., 6-1, 240), *Cole Holbrook (sr., 6-1, 245), *Tyler O’Reilly (jr., 6-2, 250),*John Wells (sr., 510, 215), Nadir Carpenter (jr., 6-0, 245), Craig Horton (so., 6-0, 240) Defense Linemen: *Elvis Gyabeng (sr., 5-11, 230), *O’Reilly, *Oteng-Achamfour, Wells Linebackers: *Zane Boszor (sr., 5-10, 195), *Thomas Zerman (jr., 5-11, 180), Hanna, Khalil Horton (sr., 61, 180), Karson Lane (jr., 510, 165) Secondary: *Armstrong, *Wheeler, *3Wills, Fofanah, Saunders Special teams Kicker: *Bame Punter: *Bame Returners: Wheeler, Wills, Saunders Long snapper: *Lane (*Denotes projected starter) fdirenna@thisweeknews.com @ThisWeekFrank

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