District 2-1B
Arlington Country Day
Head Coach: James Sims
2008 Record: 3-7
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Dietrick Payne (Sr., RB), Brandon Boyd (Sr., ATH), Denzel Hayden (So., ATH), Daniel Wheat (Sr., OL), Anthony Mosley (DB)
Key returners: O’shay Carter (Fr., QB), Darius Sims (Sr., TE/DE), Cecil Countryman (So., OL/LB), Rodney Wrighten (So, LB), Kyle Smoot (Fr., RB/DB), Markell Hannon (So., RB), Archie Melendez (Sr., RB), Ronald Gelzer (Sr., WR/DB), Demetric Pugh (So., WR), Devonta Whittaaker (Jr., WR), Tyrese Gamble (Jr., OL), Akeem Campbell (Jr., OL/DL), Kohl Cavanary (Fr., OL), Robert Mackey (Fr., OL)
News: For ACD to get back to the playoffs again, Sims will have to replace several starters including his go to guy tailback Payne (1,039 yards, 13 touchdowns) and cornerback Mosley (10 interceptions, 2 touchdowns). Sims returns eight starters on offense and just three on defense after seeing several players transfer including Payne (Parker), Boyd (Nease), Hayden (Nease) and Wheat (Parker). Replacing Payne may lie in the hands of Smoot, Tallahassee Lincoln transfer Hannon and Melendez. Mandarin transfer senior Ryan Walker will get the nod at quarterback but will be pushed by last year's starter Carter (500 passing, 6 TDs). Both will have several young receivers to work with including Mandarin transfer junior Travis Makauskas, Gelzer, Pugh and Whittaker along with Sims, son of coach Sims. Sims is relying on five solid lineman to help protect Walker and Carter, Gamble, Campbell, Countryman, Cavanary and Mackey. Sims says his linebacker core, defensive line, quarterbacks, offensive line and wide receivers are his team’s strengths while his secondary is his weakness. Freshman Justus Gelzer, Wrighten (second in team tackles last season), junior Jimmie Martin and Countryman will be the starting linebackers. Junior Bryan Rose, sophomore Mike Hardmon, Sims and Campbell will be on the line while senior Robert Fields, Ronald Gelzer and Smoot will start in the secondary.
Aucilla Christian
Head Coach: Scott Scharinger
2008 Record: 3-7
Last time in playoffs: 2005
Key returnees: Joe Mizell (Sr., RB/DB), Alex Dunkle (Sr., RB/DB), Wilson Lewis (Sr., WR/DB), Brandon Dunbar (Sr., WR/DB), Matt Harrington (Sr., OL/DL), Jacob Pitts (Sr., OL/DL), Jake Walker (Sr., OL/DL), Buddy Vollerston (Sr. OL/DL), Koal Swann (Sr., OL/DL), Lane Fraleigh (Sr., K/DB), Daniel Ward (Sr., RB/DB)
News: Scharinger, a graduate of FSU, was hired to replace Joe Striplin in March and will take over a program that has seen its share of highs and lows over the past couple of years. Aucilla has seen its share of success just two seasons ago the Warriors were 7-3 yet reversed their record last season. Since 2002, the program has had just three winnings seasons going 31-39 during that stretch. The Warriors will be quite young with 16 of the 27 players being underclassmen with just 11 seniors
Cedar Creek Christian
Head Coach: Randy Howell (third season)
2008 Record: 1-7
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: Tommy Roach (DE), Matt Quinn (WR/SS)
Key returners: Scott Armstrong (Jr., LB/QB/RB), Brandon Hodges (Fr., LB), Hezekiah Lucas (So., QB/DE), Domique Davis (Jr., CB/WR)
News: Howell’s west coast offense fared better last season and has shown steady improvement as the Soldiers put up points and even managed a 50-12 win over Lake Wales Vanguard. Two years ago in the inaugural season, the Soldiers were shut out five of their six games and was outscored 269-6. After two years of playing in the independent league, the Soldiers make the move to district play joining 1B and will be quite familiar with some of the teams. Last season the Soldiers went 0-5 against new district teams Mandarin Christian (38-20), Hawthorne (57-14), Oak Hall (80-6), St. Johns Country Day (65-14) and St. Francis (37-0). If Cedar Creek can come out injury free after opening the season against state power North Florida Christian, the Soldiers have a chance to possibly win at least two games this season including one against a new program Peniel.
Hawthorne
Head Coach: Ronny Pruitt
2008 Record: 4-6
Last time in playoffs: 2006
Key losses: David Pittman (RB/LB), Robert Gordon (RB/LB), Sam Walker (RB/ LB)
Key returners: Armond Pittman (Jr., ATH), Re’shard Munnerlyn (Jr., RB/LB), Aaron Harriot (Sr., RB/DB/LB), Jonathan Mann (Jr., OL/DL), Marquise Hayes (Sr., QB), Demetrice Lawrence (Jr., RB/LB), Adonis Williams (Sr., DB/WR), Antonio Patterson (Sr., RB/LB), Jeremy Gordon (Sr., RB/DB)
News: Coming off a terrible season, Pruitt is hoping a summer full of workouts with alum and current Philadelphia Eagles' rookie tight end Cornelius Ingram will help spark his team. One of the players Pruitt is counting on heavily in his wing-t spread formation offense is Armond Pittman, the younger brother of 2009 graduate David Pittman (2,000+ all-purpose yards, 145 tackles, 12 sacks). Another player Pruitt said he is looking forward to coaching is senior utility player Aaron Harriot, who is returning from a season ending ACL injury in the preseason game last season. Pruitt is also counting on several transfers who returned back to Hawthorne, including Munnerlyn (North Marion), Williams (Interlachen), Patterson (Interlachen) and Lawrence (Interlachen).
Mandarin Christian
Head Coach: Denny Thompson
2008 Record: 3-7
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: Kevin Simpson (LB/OL), Barnes McKenzie (WR), Matthew Coggin (WR/CB)
Key returners: Josh Tylski (Sr., QB/P), Michael Rozmus (Sr., RB/DB), Mark Jewell (Sr., RB/DB), Grant Carson (Sr., LB/OL), Clayton Visman (Sr., LB/OL), Joey Livermore (Sr., DL/OL), Trey Tieneken (Jr., WR/CB), Patrick Hardie (Sr., WR/DB)
News: Mandarin Christian begins their third season of their program and makes the big move from independent status to district play this season. The Eagles got a taste of their new district opponents last season going 1-3, beating Cedar Creek 38-20, while losing to St. Johns 37-0, St. Francis 41-28 and Arlington Country Day 52-0. New coach Denny Thompson takes over for departing coach Steve Joyner and will have fourth year starters Tylski (1,802 passing yards, 13 TDs, 22 INTs) and Rozmus (1600 rushing yards, 5.8 y.p.c.) back to run his spread offense. Tylski loses his main receiver Mckenzie (694 yards, 5 TDs, 19.3 y.p.c.) but returns his second leading receiver Tieneken (595 yards, 5 TDs, 15.3 y.p.c.). Losing Simpson hurts on defense but he returns Carson, Visman, Livermore and Tieneken. As part of hiring a new staff, Thompson also hired former Mandarin High, University of Florida and New Orleans Saints player Fred Weary to coach the secondary, which should help the Eagles improve from giving up 1901 passing yards last season.
Mayo Lafayette
Head Coach: Joey Pearson
2008 Record: 10-1
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Jamal Reid (WR/DB), Sergio Perez (DB), Shyler Morgan (RB), Joey Mroczokwski (OL), Casey Brewer (LB)
Key returners: Nick Bracewell (Sr., QB), Brooks Laminack (Sr., WR), Jared Sampson (Sr., OL), David Carson (Jr., OL), Troy Folds (Sr., DL), Aaron Goyette (Sr., DE), Alan Driver (Sr., LB), Antwan Brown (Jr., DB), Mel Jones (So., OL/DL), Tyler Chancey (Jr., LB/RB), Jose Rubio (Jr., LB/WR), Austin Anderson (Sr., WR/DB), Treston Whidden (So., RB/LB), Josh Lira (Jr., OL/DL), Arthur Sellers (Jr., RB/DB), Andre Hall (Jr., DB), Sean Lisk (Sr., OL/DL), Tripp McCray (Sr., OL)
News: Lafayette moves down to 1B and immediately becomes the favorite to be the North representative in the Class 1B state title game. Pearson loses do it all athlete Jamal Reid (1,224 yards, 24 TDs, 68 tackles, 6 INTs) but returns Bracewell (2, 262 yards, 31 TDs, 4 INTs) along with his second leading receiver Laminack (274 yards, 3 TDs on 24 catches) in his Pro-I offense. Four starters including Folds, Goyette, Driver and Brown all return in his 3-5 defense.
Gainesville Oak Hall
Head Coach: 4-6
2008 Record: Scott McDaniel
Last time in playoffs: 1979
Key losses: Will Indianos (QB/LB), James Marham (Sr., RB), Gene Rodrick (WR/DB), Jared Goodman (WR/LB), Nelson Smith (WR/LB), Allen Thigpen (TE/DT), Ben Van Gelder (OL/DL)
Key returners: Garrett Koons (So., DE/WR), Daniel Schultz (Sr., WR/DB), Leon Cummings (So., RB/DB), Travis Rwebyogo (So., WR/LB), Jared Armstrong (So., QB/LB), John Lowery (Sr., OL/DL)
News: As if McDaniel wasn’t already dealing with the loss of four year starting quarterback Indianos, the state’s all-time touchdown leader with 100 touchdowns last season; he was dealt another blow when starting tailback James Markam transferred to nearby Gainesville High in the spring for his final season. With just two seniors and one junior, this team will rely heavily on several underclassmen. Cummings saw action last season as Markam’s backup in the spread offense and will now get the bulk of the carries. Armstrong , son of former Gator and Chicago Bears great Trace Armstrong, takes over for Indianos. Koons returns as the teams’s leading tackler and sacker, in a defense that will be led by its linebacker core.
Gainesville St. Francis
Head Coach: Jeff Jenkins
2008 Record: 6-4
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: None
Key returners: Anthony Brown (Jr., RB/OLB), Andrew Brinsko (Jr., RB/CB), Andy Neisen (Jr., TE/MLB), Ben Ricards (Jr., FB/LB), Victor Bustamante (Sr., WR/OLB), Devonte King (Sr., OL/DL), A.J. McQuillan (Jr., OL/DL), Tommy Depatie (Jr., QB/SS), Tim Meissen (Jr., K/DE), Nick Iuliucci (Jr., TE/DE), Ben Casella (Sr., FB/DE), James Jenkins (Sr., TE/DE), Thomas Brinsko (Jr., OL/DT)
News: The young Wolves were inconsistent offensively in 2008, scoring 35 points six times while also being shut out twice. A program less than five years in existence takes a big step this year moving up from independent to district play. Brown is a potential star in the making after averaging 12.5 tackles a game last season.
St. Johns Country Day
Head Coach: Merlin Smith (1st year)
2008 Record: 4-6
Last time in playoffs: None
Key returners: Paul Steinmetz (Jr., DL/OL), Richard Illes (So., LB/FB), Daniel McCarthy (So., LB/RB), Cori Brown (Sr., DE/RB)
News: The only coach the program has ever known, Rodney Debose resigned over the summer to become an assistant coach at nearby Orange Park. Not only did St. Johns lost Debose but several players as well as the Spartans were down to 16 kids when practice started. As if that wasn’t enough distraction, the district get a lot tougher with the addition of Lafayette, St. Francis, Aucilla Christian.
Predictions
1. Lafayette
2. Arlington Country Day
3. Hawthorne
4. Oak Hall
5. St. Francis
6. Mandarin Christian
7. St. Johns Country Day
8. Aucilla Christian
9. Cedar Creek Christian
Monday, August 31, 2009
District 4-2B preview
District 4-2B preview
Keystone Heights
Head Coach: Chuck Dickinson (11 years)
2008 Record: 3-7
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Marcel Robinson (RB), Garrett Strickland (FB/DE), Thomas Ricketss (RB), Clayton Mosley (QB), Travis Westberry (WR), Kyle Cravey (OLB), Chris Johnson (LB), Dillon van Wagner (LB), Brett Anderson (NT), Eric Hunt (LB)
Key returners: Brantley Lott (Jr., QB), Timothy Frysinger (Jr., K), Zach Davis (Jr., LB), Shane Jennings (Sr., FB/LB), Chase Chambers (Sr., FS/RB), Seth Green (Sr., OL/DL), Ryan Latner (Jr., WR), R.J. Buxton (So., QB), Kyle Williams (Sr., OL/DL), Jonathan Stanley (Sr., OL/DL)
News: A combination of injuries, red zone mistakes, turnovers and inexperienced quarterback play helped the Indians end their consecutive winning seasons streak at four. Over the last four years, Dickinson teams were 8-2, 9-1, 7-3 and 6-3 yet struggled last season due to a series of setbacks finishing 3-7 for Dickinson’s first losing season since going 3-7 in 2003. Dickinson returns six starters in his multiple wishbone offense including Stanley, Green, Latner (523 receiving yards, 4 TDs on 23 catches), Lott (26 of 46 for 531 yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs), Buxton (13 of 46 for 171 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs) and Jennings (171 yards on 33 carries). When Lott was injured in the third or fourth game of the season, Dickinson was forced to bring up Buxton from the JV team, giving Buxton valuable experience for this coming season. In Dickinson’s 5-2 defense, he returns just three starters back including Chambers (52 tackles, 41 assists), Williams (21 tackles, 26 assists) and Jennings (45 tackles, 51 assists). Having two reliable guys at quarterback is the team’s strength along with the return of three year starter Jennings as well as Chambers. An apparent weakness is definitely playing a lot of young guys, inexperienced tailbacks and depth at tailbacks and the team’s overall size.
Mount Dora
Head Coach: Chad Grabowski
2008 Record: 6-4
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Micah Howard (FB/WR), James Davis (QB), Greg Herrick (DL), Dakarai Curry (DL), Lizandro Linares (P), Hector Tijerina (K)
Key returners: Jordan Ozerities (Sr., DB/WR), Anthony Harley (WR/DL), Bruce Heggie (Sr., TE/DT), Javonte Berry (Jr., LB), Richard McCovery (Sr., DE/RB), Cornelius Whitehead (Sr., WR/DB), Vegas Harley (So., QB), Brent Skipper (Sr., LB), Alex Williams (Sr., RB/DB)
News: Grabowski lands his first coaching gig at a program that went 12-8 and brought an end to a 24 game losing streak under former coach Wade Beale. Losing Howard (1217 yards, 16 TDs) and Davis (1240 yards, 14 TDs, 8 INTs) will be rough for the Hurricanes, especially since Grabowski will now rely on Vegas Harley, who threw only one pass last season. Veterans Ozerities (515 yards, 3 TDs on 29 catches) and Harley (418 yards, 4 TDs) along with Mt. Dora Bible transfer Whitehead, a UCF commitment, will be counted on heavily.
Newberry
Head Coach: Tommy Keeler (fifth year)
2008 Record: 9-3
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Ryan Brown (RB/CB), Steve Whitmer (OT), Travis Whitley (OL), Paul Hope (DT), Tay Ross (DB), Steve Whitmer (OL), Travis Whitley (OL)
Key returners: Yance Enoch (Sr., QB), Demetrius Dubose (Sr., RB/SS), Chadd Buchholz (Sr., OG/LB), Hank Blackwell (Jr., OT/DL), Ryan Johnston (Jr., OG), Kelly Caldwell (Sr., OL), Nick Sanders (Jr., OT), Boris Hadley (Sr., FB/DL/LB), Chris Gilyard (Jr., RB/FS), Caleb Robinson (Sr., WR/CB), Josh Robinson (Sr., WR/CB), Alex Black (Sr., OL/DL), Cody Rogers (Jr., LB), Chris White (Sr., DE), Larry Williams (Jr., SS/FB), Brandon White (Sr., LB/WR), Jr., Mike Kiem (DE), Travis Boyette (So., QB/LB), Troy Fowler (So., LB/RB), Labaryian Davis (Sr., DT/OL), Michael Hayes (Sr., RB/FS), Javonte Hayes (Sr., WR/CB)
News: Newberry has been one of the state’s top small-school programs the last two years, going 21-4 including an appearance in the 2008 Class 2B state title game. It will be difficult to replace Brown (1,655 yards, 21 TDs) and Whitmer but the Panthers didn’t miss a beat last season when they replaced all-state back Kelo Ivey. Dubose, will be the featured back in the double slot and pro-I offense s, while keep an eye on Hadley (121 tackles, 8 sacks) in Keeler’s 4-3 and 3-4 defense. Keeler received an early Christmas gift when the FHSAA granted Enoch a fifth year of eligibility Aug 11, an appeal was submitted due to a family related hardship that forced Enoch to miss school and the chance to play sports while he was at Buchholz, prior to transferring to Newberry.
Trinity Catholic
Head Coach: John Brantley III (second year)
2008 Record: 12-2
Last time in playoffs
Key losses: Rob Henry (QB)
Key returners: Kadron Boone (Sr., WR), Kedrick Rhodes (Sr., RB), Dionte Ponder (Sr., DB/WR), Chris Johnson (Jr., DB), Terry Murphy (Sr., FB), Jeremiaha Gates (Jr., RB/DB), Levaris Sims (Sr., OL), David Leopard (Sr., DL)
News: Getting to the state title game hasn’t been a problem for Trinity Catholic, having been there three of the last four years, its winning there that has been the problem. Trinity nearly had their second state title in four years wrapped up before Pahokee scored in the closing minute to steal it away from them. Boone, a Texas Tech commitment, is one of the top receivers in the state, getting him the ball will be a big priority for whomever wins the quarterback job. Coaching Boone will be former Florida Gator great wide receiver Reidel Anthony, who was hired to be the receivers coach over the break. Anthony will have lots of weapons to work with in addition to Boone, he will also have Ponder and Rhodes, who has an offer from Iowa. Clearwater Countyside sophomore quarterback Grey Crow transferred to Trinity Catholic late July and figures to be one of three guys in the mix for the starting job.
Umatilla
Head Coach: Mike Sosinski
2008 Record: 0-10
Last time in playoffs: 2003
Key losses: Eric Samuels (RB/DB), David Triplett (OG/LB), Eric Stiefield (QB/S), Chris Lightfoot (Sr., C/DL)
Key returners: Chauncey Gaines (RB/DB), Bobby Pedderson (Sr., FB/LB), Dan Kiegans (Jr., FB/LB), Kevin Harrison (Sr., RB/DB), Cole Spence (Sr., LB)
News: Sosinki, a longtime assistant, takes over a program that went from winning consecutive district titles in 2002 and 2003 to one that has fallen on hard times since including a winless season last season. The new coach installed an option based offense and hopes to utilize the speed of Harrison and Gaines, a state qualifier in four different individual events.
Williston
Head Coach: Derek Chipoletti (first year)
2008 Record: 6-5
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Travis Evans (RB), Trevor Hunsucker (OL/DL), Damien Geremany (OL/DL), Chris Morrow (LB)
Key returners: Deonte Welch (Sr., ATH), Dalton Edwards (Sr., QB), Ryan Spencer (Sr., OL), Jordan White (Sr., DL), Isaac Floyd (Sr., LB), Larry Debose (Sr., LB), Markeuise Minor (Sr., LB/DE), Tony James (Jr., CB), Desmond Holmes (Jr., SS), Kalen Penny (Jr., SS/RB), Jiwante Collins (Jr., FS), Dontrell Edwards (Jr., RB), Kelcey Coleman (Sr., SS/WR), DJ King (Jr., QB/WR), Brandon Preston (So., WR), Justin Becker (Sr., WR)
News: Former Fleming Island assistant coach Derek Chipoletti begins his first ever head coaching job in a hot bed area. While he loses Evans (1,837 yards on 221 carries) a Georgia State signee, backup Welch (809 rushing yards, 561 receiving yards) returns along with Edwards (496 rushing yards, 4 TDs, 403 passing yards, 3 TDs) and Spencer in his shot gun spread offense. Chipoletti will install a 3-3 odd stack defense and returns eight starters including White (77 tackles, 6 sacks), Floyd (87 tackles, 3 sacks), Debose (84 tackles, 3 sacks), Minor (73 tackles, 2 sacks), Holmes (64 tackles, 6 INTs), James (51 tackles, 3 INTs), Penny (67 tackles,, 2 sacks) and Collins (56 tackles, 1 INT).
Predictions
1. Trinity Catholic
2. Newberry
3. Williston
4. Mount Dora
5. Keystone
6. Umatilla
Keystone Heights
Head Coach: Chuck Dickinson (11 years)
2008 Record: 3-7
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Marcel Robinson (RB), Garrett Strickland (FB/DE), Thomas Ricketss (RB), Clayton Mosley (QB), Travis Westberry (WR), Kyle Cravey (OLB), Chris Johnson (LB), Dillon van Wagner (LB), Brett Anderson (NT), Eric Hunt (LB)
Key returners: Brantley Lott (Jr., QB), Timothy Frysinger (Jr., K), Zach Davis (Jr., LB), Shane Jennings (Sr., FB/LB), Chase Chambers (Sr., FS/RB), Seth Green (Sr., OL/DL), Ryan Latner (Jr., WR), R.J. Buxton (So., QB), Kyle Williams (Sr., OL/DL), Jonathan Stanley (Sr., OL/DL)
News: A combination of injuries, red zone mistakes, turnovers and inexperienced quarterback play helped the Indians end their consecutive winning seasons streak at four. Over the last four years, Dickinson teams were 8-2, 9-1, 7-3 and 6-3 yet struggled last season due to a series of setbacks finishing 3-7 for Dickinson’s first losing season since going 3-7 in 2003. Dickinson returns six starters in his multiple wishbone offense including Stanley, Green, Latner (523 receiving yards, 4 TDs on 23 catches), Lott (26 of 46 for 531 yards, 3 TDs, 3 INTs), Buxton (13 of 46 for 171 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs) and Jennings (171 yards on 33 carries). When Lott was injured in the third or fourth game of the season, Dickinson was forced to bring up Buxton from the JV team, giving Buxton valuable experience for this coming season. In Dickinson’s 5-2 defense, he returns just three starters back including Chambers (52 tackles, 41 assists), Williams (21 tackles, 26 assists) and Jennings (45 tackles, 51 assists). Having two reliable guys at quarterback is the team’s strength along with the return of three year starter Jennings as well as Chambers. An apparent weakness is definitely playing a lot of young guys, inexperienced tailbacks and depth at tailbacks and the team’s overall size.
Mount Dora
Head Coach: Chad Grabowski
2008 Record: 6-4
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Micah Howard (FB/WR), James Davis (QB), Greg Herrick (DL), Dakarai Curry (DL), Lizandro Linares (P), Hector Tijerina (K)
Key returners: Jordan Ozerities (Sr., DB/WR), Anthony Harley (WR/DL), Bruce Heggie (Sr., TE/DT), Javonte Berry (Jr., LB), Richard McCovery (Sr., DE/RB), Cornelius Whitehead (Sr., WR/DB), Vegas Harley (So., QB), Brent Skipper (Sr., LB), Alex Williams (Sr., RB/DB)
News: Grabowski lands his first coaching gig at a program that went 12-8 and brought an end to a 24 game losing streak under former coach Wade Beale. Losing Howard (1217 yards, 16 TDs) and Davis (1240 yards, 14 TDs, 8 INTs) will be rough for the Hurricanes, especially since Grabowski will now rely on Vegas Harley, who threw only one pass last season. Veterans Ozerities (515 yards, 3 TDs on 29 catches) and Harley (418 yards, 4 TDs) along with Mt. Dora Bible transfer Whitehead, a UCF commitment, will be counted on heavily.
Newberry
Head Coach: Tommy Keeler (fifth year)
2008 Record: 9-3
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Ryan Brown (RB/CB), Steve Whitmer (OT), Travis Whitley (OL), Paul Hope (DT), Tay Ross (DB), Steve Whitmer (OL), Travis Whitley (OL)
Key returners: Yance Enoch (Sr., QB), Demetrius Dubose (Sr., RB/SS), Chadd Buchholz (Sr., OG/LB), Hank Blackwell (Jr., OT/DL), Ryan Johnston (Jr., OG), Kelly Caldwell (Sr., OL), Nick Sanders (Jr., OT), Boris Hadley (Sr., FB/DL/LB), Chris Gilyard (Jr., RB/FS), Caleb Robinson (Sr., WR/CB), Josh Robinson (Sr., WR/CB), Alex Black (Sr., OL/DL), Cody Rogers (Jr., LB), Chris White (Sr., DE), Larry Williams (Jr., SS/FB), Brandon White (Sr., LB/WR), Jr., Mike Kiem (DE), Travis Boyette (So., QB/LB), Troy Fowler (So., LB/RB), Labaryian Davis (Sr., DT/OL), Michael Hayes (Sr., RB/FS), Javonte Hayes (Sr., WR/CB)
News: Newberry has been one of the state’s top small-school programs the last two years, going 21-4 including an appearance in the 2008 Class 2B state title game. It will be difficult to replace Brown (1,655 yards, 21 TDs) and Whitmer but the Panthers didn’t miss a beat last season when they replaced all-state back Kelo Ivey. Dubose, will be the featured back in the double slot and pro-I offense s, while keep an eye on Hadley (121 tackles, 8 sacks) in Keeler’s 4-3 and 3-4 defense. Keeler received an early Christmas gift when the FHSAA granted Enoch a fifth year of eligibility Aug 11, an appeal was submitted due to a family related hardship that forced Enoch to miss school and the chance to play sports while he was at Buchholz, prior to transferring to Newberry.
Trinity Catholic
Head Coach: John Brantley III (second year)
2008 Record: 12-2
Last time in playoffs
Key losses: Rob Henry (QB)
Key returners: Kadron Boone (Sr., WR), Kedrick Rhodes (Sr., RB), Dionte Ponder (Sr., DB/WR), Chris Johnson (Jr., DB), Terry Murphy (Sr., FB), Jeremiaha Gates (Jr., RB/DB), Levaris Sims (Sr., OL), David Leopard (Sr., DL)
News: Getting to the state title game hasn’t been a problem for Trinity Catholic, having been there three of the last four years, its winning there that has been the problem. Trinity nearly had their second state title in four years wrapped up before Pahokee scored in the closing minute to steal it away from them. Boone, a Texas Tech commitment, is one of the top receivers in the state, getting him the ball will be a big priority for whomever wins the quarterback job. Coaching Boone will be former Florida Gator great wide receiver Reidel Anthony, who was hired to be the receivers coach over the break. Anthony will have lots of weapons to work with in addition to Boone, he will also have Ponder and Rhodes, who has an offer from Iowa. Clearwater Countyside sophomore quarterback Grey Crow transferred to Trinity Catholic late July and figures to be one of three guys in the mix for the starting job.
Umatilla
Head Coach: Mike Sosinski
2008 Record: 0-10
Last time in playoffs: 2003
Key losses: Eric Samuels (RB/DB), David Triplett (OG/LB), Eric Stiefield (QB/S), Chris Lightfoot (Sr., C/DL)
Key returners: Chauncey Gaines (RB/DB), Bobby Pedderson (Sr., FB/LB), Dan Kiegans (Jr., FB/LB), Kevin Harrison (Sr., RB/DB), Cole Spence (Sr., LB)
News: Sosinki, a longtime assistant, takes over a program that went from winning consecutive district titles in 2002 and 2003 to one that has fallen on hard times since including a winless season last season. The new coach installed an option based offense and hopes to utilize the speed of Harrison and Gaines, a state qualifier in four different individual events.
Williston
Head Coach: Derek Chipoletti (first year)
2008 Record: 6-5
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Travis Evans (RB), Trevor Hunsucker (OL/DL), Damien Geremany (OL/DL), Chris Morrow (LB)
Key returners: Deonte Welch (Sr., ATH), Dalton Edwards (Sr., QB), Ryan Spencer (Sr., OL), Jordan White (Sr., DL), Isaac Floyd (Sr., LB), Larry Debose (Sr., LB), Markeuise Minor (Sr., LB/DE), Tony James (Jr., CB), Desmond Holmes (Jr., SS), Kalen Penny (Jr., SS/RB), Jiwante Collins (Jr., FS), Dontrell Edwards (Jr., RB), Kelcey Coleman (Sr., SS/WR), DJ King (Jr., QB/WR), Brandon Preston (So., WR), Justin Becker (Sr., WR)
News: Former Fleming Island assistant coach Derek Chipoletti begins his first ever head coaching job in a hot bed area. While he loses Evans (1,837 yards on 221 carries) a Georgia State signee, backup Welch (809 rushing yards, 561 receiving yards) returns along with Edwards (496 rushing yards, 4 TDs, 403 passing yards, 3 TDs) and Spencer in his shot gun spread offense. Chipoletti will install a 3-3 odd stack defense and returns eight starters including White (77 tackles, 6 sacks), Floyd (87 tackles, 3 sacks), Debose (84 tackles, 3 sacks), Minor (73 tackles, 2 sacks), Holmes (64 tackles, 6 INTs), James (51 tackles, 3 INTs), Penny (67 tackles,, 2 sacks) and Collins (56 tackles, 1 INT).
Predictions
1. Trinity Catholic
2. Newberry
3. Williston
4. Mount Dora
5. Keystone
6. Umatilla
District 3-3A preview
District 3-3A
Bartram Trail
Head Coach: Darrell Sutherland (ninth year)
2008 Record: 2-8
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Jason Young (QB), Nick Smith (WR), Alex Douglas (LB), Nick Jones (LB), Tanner Creed (DL), Dustin Bishop (LB), Collin Parker (WR), Fransico Sierra (DL), Evan Hall (RB), Matt Youngs (RB), Zach Romani (LB), Marshall McMillan (DB), Trey Chesser (DB), Brad Frost (DL), Aaron Peterman (OL), Nathan Pierschke (WR), Jonathan Linkenheimer (Sr., K)
Key returners: Derrick Taylor (Sr., RB), Danny Sellers (Sr., WR/DB), Nathan Peterman (So., QB), Blake Parrish (Sr., OL), Logan Boller (Sr., OL), Shaquelle Williams (Sr., DB), Trevor Tayse (Sr., DL),
News: After seeing their seven year playoff run (2001-2007) end last season, the Bears look to start a new streak now. The offense returns four of the five starters on the line including Parrish and Boller which should give Taylor plenty of room to run. Replacing Young (1,453 yards, 15 TD’s, 9 INTs on 112 of 210 attempts) lies at the hands of Peterman, who looked solid in the spring throwing for 205 yards and two touchdowns in a win over Palm Coast. Peterman’s main target looks to be Sellers, a transfer from Ohio, who hooked up with Peterman four times for 71 yards in the spring game, including a 32-yard catch on the opening drive. Sellers will have to fill the void of losing Smith, who accumulated 554 yards, 10 touchdowns, 15.0 y.p.c. on 37 catches. Sutherland was dealt a big blow when senior kicker Jonathan Linkenheimer, who converted 4 of 6 field goals, transferred to Daytona Mainland in the summer.
Clay
Head Coach: Matt Toblin (first year)
2008 Record: 5-5
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Ross Fenn (OL), Eric Minich (OL/LB), Billy Crandall (OL), Dan Higginbotham (DL), A.J. Daniel (LB), DJ Schrampf (DB)
Key returners: Ulysses Tolbert (Jr., QB), Rodney Perry (Sr., RB/WR), Teddy Monroe (Sr., RB), Zach Kay (Jr., RB), Shane Coleman (Jr., FB), Javon Royell (Jr., DL), Justin Cihlar (Sr., DL), Brandon Prince (Sr., DL), Andre LaFontant (Jr., DB), Jerome Goodman (Jr., OL), Antoine Hampshire (Sr., S)
News: Former Fleming Island and Nease assistant coach Matt Toblin begins his first ever head coaching stint after taking over veteran coach Jim Reape, who resigned to concentrate full time on his state power wrestling program. Reape, who will remain on staff under Toblin, didn’t leave him empty handed either with his entire backfield returning including Tolbert, Perry and Monroe all returning for their third season.
Creekside
Head Coach: Greg Stanton (second year)
2008 Record: 2-8
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: Kendal Parker (Jr., LB)
Key returners: Kevin Payment (Sr., QB), Matt Bernstein (Sr., OL), Sterling Sprouse (Sr., RB), Jordan Martin (Sr., DB/RB), Nick Eden (Sr., LB), Austin Cannon (Sr., K), Andrew Markert (Sr., DT)
News: With nearly every starter returning, Creekside’s second season should go a little smoother. Stanton’s no huddle offense, which averaged 208 yards per game, will be run by returning starter Kevin Payment, who missed most of the spring thanks to a playoff run by the baseball team. Payment (1,104 passing yards) returns versatile athlete Martin and Sprouse, in addition to picking up Thompson Duett (Jr., RB), a transfer from Bartram Trail. Payment will miss the first two games in the fall after violating team rules in the spring and will be replaced by backup sophomore Josh Isacco. Stanton is shifting the defense from an eight-man front to a more traditional 4-3 scheme to help offset a defense, which gave up 2,337 rushing yards and 328 yards of offense per game. Creekside will look to newcomer Eden to fill the void of its best defensive player Kendall Parker (Jr., MLB), who moved away before the spring. Injuries on defense killed the Knights last season and Stanton is excited about the depth he has this season on both sides of the trenches.
Nease
Head Coach: Danny Cowgill (second year)
2008 Record: 7-4
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Frank Souza (DL), John Gallagher (DL), Patrick Barker (WR), Kyle Leonard (WR), Ryan Martin (WR), Matt Leighty (WR), James McVeigh (LB), Alex Mons (DL), Sam Hightower (OL), Taylor Thomas (OL)
Key returners: Tyler Weir (Sr., QB), Andrew Barker (Sr., K), Ryan Mickens (Sr., RB/LB), Corzell White (Sr., RB/DB), Patrick Thomas (Sr., WR), Jordan Bailey (Sr., DL), Kevin Gray (Sr., OLB), Devin Flynn (Jr., RB), Alex Fox (Sr., OL), Dylan Kuser (Sr., LB/FB), Tim Contic (Sr., P), Matt Oakley (Sr., OL)
News: After three straight state title game appearances, you figured Nease would struggle a little bit with the loss of veteran head coach Craig Howard, several key backups transferring to nearby new school Ponte Vedra, not to mention the loss of fourteen players who signed to play in college including nine Division I-A signees. Yet Cowgill steered the ship forward and guided the Panthers to a second round playoff appearance. Cowgill lost longtime assistant coach Matt Toblin, who left Nease in the offseason to take the head coaching job at Clay. Starting quarterback Weir (2,168 yards, 21 TD’s, 8 INT’s) returns for his second season, but loses his main target Georgia Southern signee Patrick Barker (1,301 yards, 14 TD’s on 81 receptions) along with Martin and Leighty. Weir will now look to Mickens (788 yards, 7 TD’s), White, Flynn (726 yards, 10 TD’s) and Thomas as his primary weapons. After years of playing in the shotgun formation, Cowgill moved Weir under center in the spring for a new wrinkle in the system. The defense took a hit with the loss of two lineman Frank Souza (Wake Forest) and John Gallagher (Wake Forest) along with McVeigh and Mons but returns Gray (69 tackles, 5 sacks). Special teams weapon Andrew Barker (7 of 17, including 50-yarder) returns as well. A pair of Arlington Country Day transfers Brandon Boyd (Sr., WR/DB) and Denzell Hayden (So., DB/WR/ATH) should help fill some holes as well.
Ponte Vedra
Head Coach: Mike Lloyd (second year)
2008 Record: 2-8
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: None
Key returners: Clint Cronin (Jr., QB), Otto Gruhn (Jr., QB), Dylon Foody (Jr., QB), Casey Weeks (So., QB), C.J. Moraniec (Jr., LB), Fred Stapleton (Jr., LB), Clay Mazza (Sr., SS/WR), Jake Jacobs (Jr., WR)
News: With nearly every starter returning, Ponte Vedra has the experience to show steady improvement in year two. Cronin is the leader in a crowded group of quarterbacks but Weeks, the teams Freshman MVP might get in the mix. Mazza was the teams MVP and will see time at safety and wide receiver. The linebacker core led by Moraniec and Stapleton has the ability to be very good. If Ponte Vedra is to show improvement, they must fix an offense (1,146 yards, 171.6 yards per game) and defense (2,717 rushing yards, 387 yards per game), that finished last in both offensive yards per game and defensive yards give up per game.
Predictions
1. Clay
2. Bartram Trail
3. Nease
4. Ponte Vedra
5. Creekside
Bartram Trail
Head Coach: Darrell Sutherland (ninth year)
2008 Record: 2-8
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Jason Young (QB), Nick Smith (WR), Alex Douglas (LB), Nick Jones (LB), Tanner Creed (DL), Dustin Bishop (LB), Collin Parker (WR), Fransico Sierra (DL), Evan Hall (RB), Matt Youngs (RB), Zach Romani (LB), Marshall McMillan (DB), Trey Chesser (DB), Brad Frost (DL), Aaron Peterman (OL), Nathan Pierschke (WR), Jonathan Linkenheimer (Sr., K)
Key returners: Derrick Taylor (Sr., RB), Danny Sellers (Sr., WR/DB), Nathan Peterman (So., QB), Blake Parrish (Sr., OL), Logan Boller (Sr., OL), Shaquelle Williams (Sr., DB), Trevor Tayse (Sr., DL),
News: After seeing their seven year playoff run (2001-2007) end last season, the Bears look to start a new streak now. The offense returns four of the five starters on the line including Parrish and Boller which should give Taylor plenty of room to run. Replacing Young (1,453 yards, 15 TD’s, 9 INTs on 112 of 210 attempts) lies at the hands of Peterman, who looked solid in the spring throwing for 205 yards and two touchdowns in a win over Palm Coast. Peterman’s main target looks to be Sellers, a transfer from Ohio, who hooked up with Peterman four times for 71 yards in the spring game, including a 32-yard catch on the opening drive. Sellers will have to fill the void of losing Smith, who accumulated 554 yards, 10 touchdowns, 15.0 y.p.c. on 37 catches. Sutherland was dealt a big blow when senior kicker Jonathan Linkenheimer, who converted 4 of 6 field goals, transferred to Daytona Mainland in the summer.
Clay
Head Coach: Matt Toblin (first year)
2008 Record: 5-5
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Ross Fenn (OL), Eric Minich (OL/LB), Billy Crandall (OL), Dan Higginbotham (DL), A.J. Daniel (LB), DJ Schrampf (DB)
Key returners: Ulysses Tolbert (Jr., QB), Rodney Perry (Sr., RB/WR), Teddy Monroe (Sr., RB), Zach Kay (Jr., RB), Shane Coleman (Jr., FB), Javon Royell (Jr., DL), Justin Cihlar (Sr., DL), Brandon Prince (Sr., DL), Andre LaFontant (Jr., DB), Jerome Goodman (Jr., OL), Antoine Hampshire (Sr., S)
News: Former Fleming Island and Nease assistant coach Matt Toblin begins his first ever head coaching stint after taking over veteran coach Jim Reape, who resigned to concentrate full time on his state power wrestling program. Reape, who will remain on staff under Toblin, didn’t leave him empty handed either with his entire backfield returning including Tolbert, Perry and Monroe all returning for their third season.
Creekside
Head Coach: Greg Stanton (second year)
2008 Record: 2-8
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: Kendal Parker (Jr., LB)
Key returners: Kevin Payment (Sr., QB), Matt Bernstein (Sr., OL), Sterling Sprouse (Sr., RB), Jordan Martin (Sr., DB/RB), Nick Eden (Sr., LB), Austin Cannon (Sr., K), Andrew Markert (Sr., DT)
News: With nearly every starter returning, Creekside’s second season should go a little smoother. Stanton’s no huddle offense, which averaged 208 yards per game, will be run by returning starter Kevin Payment, who missed most of the spring thanks to a playoff run by the baseball team. Payment (1,104 passing yards) returns versatile athlete Martin and Sprouse, in addition to picking up Thompson Duett (Jr., RB), a transfer from Bartram Trail. Payment will miss the first two games in the fall after violating team rules in the spring and will be replaced by backup sophomore Josh Isacco. Stanton is shifting the defense from an eight-man front to a more traditional 4-3 scheme to help offset a defense, which gave up 2,337 rushing yards and 328 yards of offense per game. Creekside will look to newcomer Eden to fill the void of its best defensive player Kendall Parker (Jr., MLB), who moved away before the spring. Injuries on defense killed the Knights last season and Stanton is excited about the depth he has this season on both sides of the trenches.
Nease
Head Coach: Danny Cowgill (second year)
2008 Record: 7-4
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Frank Souza (DL), John Gallagher (DL), Patrick Barker (WR), Kyle Leonard (WR), Ryan Martin (WR), Matt Leighty (WR), James McVeigh (LB), Alex Mons (DL), Sam Hightower (OL), Taylor Thomas (OL)
Key returners: Tyler Weir (Sr., QB), Andrew Barker (Sr., K), Ryan Mickens (Sr., RB/LB), Corzell White (Sr., RB/DB), Patrick Thomas (Sr., WR), Jordan Bailey (Sr., DL), Kevin Gray (Sr., OLB), Devin Flynn (Jr., RB), Alex Fox (Sr., OL), Dylan Kuser (Sr., LB/FB), Tim Contic (Sr., P), Matt Oakley (Sr., OL)
News: After three straight state title game appearances, you figured Nease would struggle a little bit with the loss of veteran head coach Craig Howard, several key backups transferring to nearby new school Ponte Vedra, not to mention the loss of fourteen players who signed to play in college including nine Division I-A signees. Yet Cowgill steered the ship forward and guided the Panthers to a second round playoff appearance. Cowgill lost longtime assistant coach Matt Toblin, who left Nease in the offseason to take the head coaching job at Clay. Starting quarterback Weir (2,168 yards, 21 TD’s, 8 INT’s) returns for his second season, but loses his main target Georgia Southern signee Patrick Barker (1,301 yards, 14 TD’s on 81 receptions) along with Martin and Leighty. Weir will now look to Mickens (788 yards, 7 TD’s), White, Flynn (726 yards, 10 TD’s) and Thomas as his primary weapons. After years of playing in the shotgun formation, Cowgill moved Weir under center in the spring for a new wrinkle in the system. The defense took a hit with the loss of two lineman Frank Souza (Wake Forest) and John Gallagher (Wake Forest) along with McVeigh and Mons but returns Gray (69 tackles, 5 sacks). Special teams weapon Andrew Barker (7 of 17, including 50-yarder) returns as well. A pair of Arlington Country Day transfers Brandon Boyd (Sr., WR/DB) and Denzell Hayden (So., DB/WR/ATH) should help fill some holes as well.
Ponte Vedra
Head Coach: Mike Lloyd (second year)
2008 Record: 2-8
Last time in playoffs: None
Key losses: None
Key returners: Clint Cronin (Jr., QB), Otto Gruhn (Jr., QB), Dylon Foody (Jr., QB), Casey Weeks (So., QB), C.J. Moraniec (Jr., LB), Fred Stapleton (Jr., LB), Clay Mazza (Sr., SS/WR), Jake Jacobs (Jr., WR)
News: With nearly every starter returning, Ponte Vedra has the experience to show steady improvement in year two. Cronin is the leader in a crowded group of quarterbacks but Weeks, the teams Freshman MVP might get in the mix. Mazza was the teams MVP and will see time at safety and wide receiver. The linebacker core led by Moraniec and Stapleton has the ability to be very good. If Ponte Vedra is to show improvement, they must fix an offense (1,146 yards, 171.6 yards per game) and defense (2,717 rushing yards, 387 yards per game), that finished last in both offensive yards per game and defensive yards give up per game.
Predictions
1. Clay
2. Bartram Trail
3. Nease
4. Ponte Vedra
5. Creekside
District 4-4A preview
District 4-4A
Ed White Commanders
Head Coach: Terry Gilliam
2008 Record: 6-5
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Leon Jackson (RB), Larry Smith (DB), Kevin Parker (OL/DL), Antwan Randall (DB/KR), Ryan Duggans (OL/DL), Jerrod Jackson (LB)
Key returners: Casey Turner (Sr., RB), Kenneth Bizier (Sr., OL), Kevin House (Sr., OL), Kaleb Johnson (Jr., OL), Patrick Adams (Sr., WR), Willie Ross (Sr., OL), Jamar Gilyard (Jr., DE), Shamai Bell (Sr., DB), Devonte Mable (Jr., RB)
News: Their many not be a better offense in the area than White’s explosive ground game. Gilliam returns most of the tools on offense, which should help his team get back to the playoffs. Losing Jackson (1,326 yards, 12 TD’s) hurts but White does return Turner (1950 yards, 20 TD’s), the most explosive back in the city along with two veteran lineman Bizier and House. There is no secret of how the Commanders are going to attack you, for nearly twenty years the scheme (wing-t, miss direction, counters) has been run it down your throat until you can stop them. White ran for 3,625 yards last season, while throwing for just 417, averaging 400 yards of offense per game. The combination of Turner and Mable, who showed out in the spring jamboree, gives White another 1-2 lethal combination. The downfall last season was a defense which gave up 316 yards per game. Gilliam must fix some holes including the loss of Smith (7 interceptions), Jackson and Randall.
Lake City Columbia Tigers
Head Coach: Craig Howard
2008 Record: 4-6
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Marquis David (LB), Kam Fasnacht (QB), Jerry Thomas (WR), Matt Knowles (OL)
Key returners: Tiger Powell (Sr., RB), Timmy Jernigan (Jr., DT), Cameron Sweat (Sr., QB), Brach Bessant (Sr., LB), Chris Dickey (Jr., DB), Donovan Harrington (Sr., OT), Danny Ratliff (Jr., OG), Blaine Crews (Sr., OG), Quartez Pate (Sr., RB), Andre Caldwell (Jr., FS), Fontaine Woodbury (Sr., DE), Todd Steward (Sr., LB), Jaron Wilson (Jr., WR), Adrian Hill (Jr., WR), Jamal Montague (Sr., WR)
News: Howard’s first season at Columbia didn’t go as expected as he would have liked, as it took a while for the kids buy into a new system and work ethic. Year two promises to be a season filled with high expectations including many thinking state title. Howard’s spread offense returns seven starters led by four year starter Tiger Powell. After two years in a primary wing-t offense, Powell (a South Florida commitment) struggled to pick up the new offense and is looking for another breakout season this year. Sweat returns as the starter after having started every game his sophomore season and the final two games last season. Sweat, who returns three starting lineman Harrington, Ratliff and Crews, will have plenty of weapons to chose from including Powell, Pate, Wilson, Caldwell and Montague. Led by Bessant (Troy commitment), the defense returns five starters in the 3-4 scheme including Steward, Caldwell, Woodbury and Jernigan, the only sophomore invited to Florida’s Friday Night Lights camp this summer.
Lee Generals
Head Coach: Myrick Anderson (second season)
2008 Record: 7-4
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: James Perkins (RB), Ivan Nicholas (LB), Tiray Dove (FB/LB), Marcus Murphy (DB), Jonathan Wallace (TE), AJ Coleman (WB), Gerald Rogers (WB/WR/KR/DB), Brandon Sirmans (QB), Brian Sirmans (WR), Eddie Chance (ATH), Will Holloman (LB), Ben Criswell (DE)
Key returners: TramellWilliams (Sr., OL/DL), Tavarius Stringfield (Sr.,MLB), Troy Bacon (Sr.,TE/OLB), Jeremiah Cheesborough (Sr., OL/DL), Darius Darden (Jr., QB), Corey Lewis (Jr., DB/WR), Johnny Mitchell (Sr., DL), Raymond Brown (Sr., DB),Tyree Daniels (Sr., OL)
News: Making their first playoff appearance in four years was a big step especially under first year head coach Myrick Anderson. Now comes the hard part maintaining it, if Lee is going to do that, several underclassmen or inexperienced players will have to step up after losing 24 seniors. Lee is replacing nearly every single player in their wing-t offense, which ran for 2,108 yards and averaged 340 yards per game. The entire backfield of Sirmans, Perkins (950 yards, 11 TD’s), Dove, Coleman and Rogers in addition to wide outs Sirmans and Wallace are all gone. Williams (82 pancakes, 52 tackles, 18 sacks in his career), who committed to South Carolina, anchors the trenches while Stringfield (307 total tackles, 28 sacks, 6 interceptions in his career) and Bacon (172 total tackles, 17 sacks, 4 interceptions in his career) lock down the middle of a defense, which gave up an area third best 131.6 yards per game.
Ridgeview Panthers
Head Coach: Tom McPherson
2008 Record: 8-5
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Derek Hatcher (QB), Jeff Hartung (OL), Tyler Bass (WR), Scott Williamson (LB), Brandon McGee (DB), JJ Adams (DE), Derek Johnson (LB), Larry Nilo (LB),
Key returners: Demario Kohn (Sr., WR/QB/DB), Chris Schamp (Sr., OL)
News: The area’s second best Cinderalla story behind Orange Park, ended with a surprising run to the third round of the Class 4A playoffs in a loss to Seabreeze. The bad news is Hatcher (1,594 yards, 13 TD’s, 8 INT’s), Bass (629 yards, 5 TD’s on 49 catches) and Hartung, who helped the Panthers average 304.5 yards a game, are all gone as is starting tailback junior Damon Kelly who transferred to Orange Park.
Wolfson Wolfpack
Head Coach: Frank Jenkins (second season)
2008 Record: 5-5
Last time in playoffs: 2006
Key losses: Dejon Elles (LB), Chris Waye (LB), Eric Watts (LB), Spencer Todd (K/P), Marcus White (DB), Corey Houston Taylor (DB), Harold Rogers (DL/OL), Rashaad Mayes (RB)
Key returners: Harlon Samuels (Sr., DB), CJ Bostic (Sr., WB/FL), Zach Balow (Sr., OL), Anthony Rose (Sr., S/LB), Ryan Jones (Sr., LB), Reggie Mitchell (Sr., CB), Deshun Martin (Sr., RB), Cameron Young (Sr., WB), Terrell Williams (Sr., DB), Jamilyn Long (Sr., WB), Kavorus Moses (Jr., DB)
News: Wolfson raced out to a surprising 5-2 run to start the season, before tailing at the end with district losses to First Coast (27-10) and Lee (21-7) to keep them out of the playoffs. If the Wolfpack hope to get back in the mix, Jenkins will have to find key replacements on both sides of the ball especially defense which loses its two best players Watts and Taylor. Special teams aren’t normally a vital weapon, but the loss of Todd might be the biggest blow on the team. Todd converted 9 of 13 field goals, including a longest of 43 yards and also averaged 40.6 yards per punt, including a long of 65 yards. Jenkins was also dealt a big blow when starting quarterback Sam Smiley (1,099 yards, 6 TDs, 6 INT’s on 73 of 119 passing) transferred to Raines during the summer. Developing a quarterback is a key to the offense, which will feature Division I-A standout CJ Bostic.
Predictions
1. Ed White
2. Columbia
3. Lee
4. Ridgeview
5. Wolfson
Ed White Commanders
Head Coach: Terry Gilliam
2008 Record: 6-5
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Leon Jackson (RB), Larry Smith (DB), Kevin Parker (OL/DL), Antwan Randall (DB/KR), Ryan Duggans (OL/DL), Jerrod Jackson (LB)
Key returners: Casey Turner (Sr., RB), Kenneth Bizier (Sr., OL), Kevin House (Sr., OL), Kaleb Johnson (Jr., OL), Patrick Adams (Sr., WR), Willie Ross (Sr., OL), Jamar Gilyard (Jr., DE), Shamai Bell (Sr., DB), Devonte Mable (Jr., RB)
News: Their many not be a better offense in the area than White’s explosive ground game. Gilliam returns most of the tools on offense, which should help his team get back to the playoffs. Losing Jackson (1,326 yards, 12 TD’s) hurts but White does return Turner (1950 yards, 20 TD’s), the most explosive back in the city along with two veteran lineman Bizier and House. There is no secret of how the Commanders are going to attack you, for nearly twenty years the scheme (wing-t, miss direction, counters) has been run it down your throat until you can stop them. White ran for 3,625 yards last season, while throwing for just 417, averaging 400 yards of offense per game. The combination of Turner and Mable, who showed out in the spring jamboree, gives White another 1-2 lethal combination. The downfall last season was a defense which gave up 316 yards per game. Gilliam must fix some holes including the loss of Smith (7 interceptions), Jackson and Randall.
Lake City Columbia Tigers
Head Coach: Craig Howard
2008 Record: 4-6
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Marquis David (LB), Kam Fasnacht (QB), Jerry Thomas (WR), Matt Knowles (OL)
Key returners: Tiger Powell (Sr., RB), Timmy Jernigan (Jr., DT), Cameron Sweat (Sr., QB), Brach Bessant (Sr., LB), Chris Dickey (Jr., DB), Donovan Harrington (Sr., OT), Danny Ratliff (Jr., OG), Blaine Crews (Sr., OG), Quartez Pate (Sr., RB), Andre Caldwell (Jr., FS), Fontaine Woodbury (Sr., DE), Todd Steward (Sr., LB), Jaron Wilson (Jr., WR), Adrian Hill (Jr., WR), Jamal Montague (Sr., WR)
News: Howard’s first season at Columbia didn’t go as expected as he would have liked, as it took a while for the kids buy into a new system and work ethic. Year two promises to be a season filled with high expectations including many thinking state title. Howard’s spread offense returns seven starters led by four year starter Tiger Powell. After two years in a primary wing-t offense, Powell (a South Florida commitment) struggled to pick up the new offense and is looking for another breakout season this year. Sweat returns as the starter after having started every game his sophomore season and the final two games last season. Sweat, who returns three starting lineman Harrington, Ratliff and Crews, will have plenty of weapons to chose from including Powell, Pate, Wilson, Caldwell and Montague. Led by Bessant (Troy commitment), the defense returns five starters in the 3-4 scheme including Steward, Caldwell, Woodbury and Jernigan, the only sophomore invited to Florida’s Friday Night Lights camp this summer.
Lee Generals
Head Coach: Myrick Anderson (second season)
2008 Record: 7-4
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: James Perkins (RB), Ivan Nicholas (LB), Tiray Dove (FB/LB), Marcus Murphy (DB), Jonathan Wallace (TE), AJ Coleman (WB), Gerald Rogers (WB/WR/KR/DB), Brandon Sirmans (QB), Brian Sirmans (WR), Eddie Chance (ATH), Will Holloman (LB), Ben Criswell (DE)
Key returners: TramellWilliams (Sr., OL/DL), Tavarius Stringfield (Sr.,MLB), Troy Bacon (Sr.,TE/OLB), Jeremiah Cheesborough (Sr., OL/DL), Darius Darden (Jr., QB), Corey Lewis (Jr., DB/WR), Johnny Mitchell (Sr., DL), Raymond Brown (Sr., DB),Tyree Daniels (Sr., OL)
News: Making their first playoff appearance in four years was a big step especially under first year head coach Myrick Anderson. Now comes the hard part maintaining it, if Lee is going to do that, several underclassmen or inexperienced players will have to step up after losing 24 seniors. Lee is replacing nearly every single player in their wing-t offense, which ran for 2,108 yards and averaged 340 yards per game. The entire backfield of Sirmans, Perkins (950 yards, 11 TD’s), Dove, Coleman and Rogers in addition to wide outs Sirmans and Wallace are all gone. Williams (82 pancakes, 52 tackles, 18 sacks in his career), who committed to South Carolina, anchors the trenches while Stringfield (307 total tackles, 28 sacks, 6 interceptions in his career) and Bacon (172 total tackles, 17 sacks, 4 interceptions in his career) lock down the middle of a defense, which gave up an area third best 131.6 yards per game.
Ridgeview Panthers
Head Coach: Tom McPherson
2008 Record: 8-5
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Derek Hatcher (QB), Jeff Hartung (OL), Tyler Bass (WR), Scott Williamson (LB), Brandon McGee (DB), JJ Adams (DE), Derek Johnson (LB), Larry Nilo (LB),
Key returners: Demario Kohn (Sr., WR/QB/DB), Chris Schamp (Sr., OL)
News: The area’s second best Cinderalla story behind Orange Park, ended with a surprising run to the third round of the Class 4A playoffs in a loss to Seabreeze. The bad news is Hatcher (1,594 yards, 13 TD’s, 8 INT’s), Bass (629 yards, 5 TD’s on 49 catches) and Hartung, who helped the Panthers average 304.5 yards a game, are all gone as is starting tailback junior Damon Kelly who transferred to Orange Park.
Wolfson Wolfpack
Head Coach: Frank Jenkins (second season)
2008 Record: 5-5
Last time in playoffs: 2006
Key losses: Dejon Elles (LB), Chris Waye (LB), Eric Watts (LB), Spencer Todd (K/P), Marcus White (DB), Corey Houston Taylor (DB), Harold Rogers (DL/OL), Rashaad Mayes (RB)
Key returners: Harlon Samuels (Sr., DB), CJ Bostic (Sr., WB/FL), Zach Balow (Sr., OL), Anthony Rose (Sr., S/LB), Ryan Jones (Sr., LB), Reggie Mitchell (Sr., CB), Deshun Martin (Sr., RB), Cameron Young (Sr., WB), Terrell Williams (Sr., DB), Jamilyn Long (Sr., WB), Kavorus Moses (Jr., DB)
News: Wolfson raced out to a surprising 5-2 run to start the season, before tailing at the end with district losses to First Coast (27-10) and Lee (21-7) to keep them out of the playoffs. If the Wolfpack hope to get back in the mix, Jenkins will have to find key replacements on both sides of the ball especially defense which loses its two best players Watts and Taylor. Special teams aren’t normally a vital weapon, but the loss of Todd might be the biggest blow on the team. Todd converted 9 of 13 field goals, including a longest of 43 yards and also averaged 40.6 yards per punt, including a long of 65 yards. Jenkins was also dealt a big blow when starting quarterback Sam Smiley (1,099 yards, 6 TDs, 6 INT’s on 73 of 119 passing) transferred to Raines during the summer. Developing a quarterback is a key to the offense, which will feature Division I-A standout CJ Bostic.
Predictions
1. Ed White
2. Columbia
3. Lee
4. Ridgeview
5. Wolfson
District 2-5A preview
District 2-5A
First Coast Bucs
Head Coach: Marty Lee
2008 Record: 7-4
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Derald Jones (QB/WR), Austin Williams (DB), Nate Stephenson (LB), Jameel Franklin (SS), Adrian Williams (WR), Kendal Hobbs (DB), Cliff Johnson (DB), Aaron Stanberry (OL)
Key returners: Tavaris Barnes (Sr., DE/TE), Logan Falk (Sr., OL), Eric Beverly (Jr., RB), Chris Black (So., WR), Horace Glover (Sr., DB), Sammy Crawford (Sr., QB), Chris Terry (Jr., DL), Paris Parker (Jr., DL), Kadeem Perry (Sr., TE/DL), Kenneth Myers (Jr., WR), Daron White (Sr., RB)
News: A three game losing streak to end the season should help fuel the fire for the upcoming season for First Coast. A year removed from a 10-3 season and advancing to the school’s first ever Elite 8 appearance, the Bucs hoped to follow that record setting season with another one; however a 6-2 start quickly faded with a three game losing streak including a first round loss to Tallahassee Leon. Fast forward six months later as fall practice has started and First Coast is working on continuing its streak of consecutive district championships to five consecutive years. Lee returns five starters on offense including Beverly (1,000 yards, 10 TDs). Beverly will be helped with Crawford, White, Black, Perry and Myers. Defensively, Lee must replace five starters but returns Barnes (FSU commitment), Glover, Terry and Parker. From 1990-2004, the Bucs made two playoff appearances, yet the last four years the Bucs have made four consecutive trips under Lee, look for them to make it five in a row.
Fletcher Senators
Head Coach: Joe Reynolds (20th season)
2008 Record: 10-1
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Lamar Scruggs (WR), Deschion Baskerville (RB), Andrew Stellato (TE), Marcus Berg (CB/WR), James Rominger (Sr., LB), Paris Lee (RB), Deshawn Green (WR), Aaron Levine (K)
Key returners: Jamal Christopher (Sr., LB), Jake Medlock (Sr., QB), Dylan Bostick (Sr., OL), Taron Johnson (Sr., LB), Jake Guisti (Sr., LB), Mitchell Hester (Jr., RB), Laquille Lawrence (Sr., WR), Zach Reynolds, (Sr., RB), Houston Brown (Sr., DB)
News: In Reynolds twentieth and final season, the veteran coach would like to go out with a bang perhaps a state title. Whether or not he does that will depend on how several newcomers develop as Reynolds will have to fill several major holes on both sides of the ball. The offense was hit the worst as Reynolds sees Scruggs (688 yards, 8 TD’s, 42 catches), Baskerville (1,531 yards, 20 TDs, 196 carries), Lee, Green and Stellato all gone. Reynolds does return Medlock (2, 813 yards, 28 TDs, 8 INTs), Bostick, Hester and Lawrence as well as defensive guys Guisti (133 tackles, 8 INTs), Christopher and Johnson. The retirement of Reynolds comes part of pact, seeing friends offensive coordinator Ricky Medlock and defensive coordinator Kevin Brown all retiring along with watching their sons Zach Reynolds, Jake Medlock, and Houston Brown all graduate.
Gainesville Buchholz Bobcats
Head Coach: Bob Godwin
2008 Record: 5-6
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Kevin Prindle (QB), Jordan Weingart (OL), Ian Brown (OL), Antrwan Hughes (LB), Sean Redmond (OL), Andrew Banks (OL), Jordan Labby (RB), Cortreal Scott (DE), Richard Hagley (FS/SS), Reshard Norton (DB/WR), Kyle Oehlbeck (LB), Justin Keith (DT), Mikale Foster (DB/WR)
Key returners: Aaron Grant (Sr., QB), Marquis Noble (Jr., WR/DB), Louie Addazio (Jr., TE/DE), Wintrez Thomas (Jr., RB), Will Rathbone (Jr., OL), Ryan Thomas (Jr., OL), Kenny Harper (Jr., FB/LB), Brian Johnson (Sr., DB), Adrian Foster (Sr., DB), Cameron Dore (Sr., DB)
News: The mystique that once roamed over the state power Buchholz program has faded away over the last few years, Godwin hopes to get it back even though the once power hasn’t won more than five games since going 8-2 in 2004. If Buchholz is going to come back it will be with a lot of new faces as the Bobcats graduated 12 seniors including Prindle (Hamilton College), Oehlbeck (Ga. Southern), Keith (Ga. Tech) and Weingart (West Virginia). Godwin returns at least five part time starters on offense and three on defense. Buchholz will have to replace its top passer (Prindle), runner (Labby), receiver (Foster) and four offensive lineman. Grant shared snaps with Prindle last season and knows the multiple shotgun set offense well and will rely on veterans Noble, Thomas, Addazio along with the only returning offensive lineman Rathbone. In the Bobcats 4-4 defensive scheme, the secondary should be the strongest point with the return of Johnson, Foster and Dore. No starters return in the front eight but Harper, Addazio and Noble should provide two-way depth. A trio juniors defensive end Nathan Snodgrass, linebacker Stacey Williams and linebacker McKenzie Sims will help also.
Middleburg Broncos
Head Coach: Robbie Justino
2008 Record: 1-9
Last time in playoffs: 2003
Key losses: Troy Cannaday (QB), Alex Bradley (LB/FB), Ryan Balsan (OL), Trae Stephenson (RB/LB), Jonathan Delsoin (WR/DB), Aaron Cherry (OL/MLB)
Key returners: Greg Ramsey (Sr., OT), Jack Beote (Sr., QB/FS/WR/P), Cedric Davis (Sr., OL), Ryan Holmes (Sr., RB/LB)
News: Replacing three year starter Cannaday (82 of 175 for 915 yards) won’t be easy, but Beote is up for the challenge. Beote, who saw action at receiver and punter last season, will have two experienced lineman in Ramsey and Davis to work with. Who Beote throws to will be a big question mark after Delsoin (485 yards, 1 TD on 30 catches) moves on. One of those questions may have been solved as Justino picked up a huge weapon in the spring with the transfer of former Fleming Island athlete junior Austin Sweat, Sweat took snaps at quarterback although his primary position is receiver.
Predictions
1. First Coast
2. Fletcher
3. Buchholz
4. Middleburg
First Coast Bucs
Head Coach: Marty Lee
2008 Record: 7-4
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Derald Jones (QB/WR), Austin Williams (DB), Nate Stephenson (LB), Jameel Franklin (SS), Adrian Williams (WR), Kendal Hobbs (DB), Cliff Johnson (DB), Aaron Stanberry (OL)
Key returners: Tavaris Barnes (Sr., DE/TE), Logan Falk (Sr., OL), Eric Beverly (Jr., RB), Chris Black (So., WR), Horace Glover (Sr., DB), Sammy Crawford (Sr., QB), Chris Terry (Jr., DL), Paris Parker (Jr., DL), Kadeem Perry (Sr., TE/DL), Kenneth Myers (Jr., WR), Daron White (Sr., RB)
News: A three game losing streak to end the season should help fuel the fire for the upcoming season for First Coast. A year removed from a 10-3 season and advancing to the school’s first ever Elite 8 appearance, the Bucs hoped to follow that record setting season with another one; however a 6-2 start quickly faded with a three game losing streak including a first round loss to Tallahassee Leon. Fast forward six months later as fall practice has started and First Coast is working on continuing its streak of consecutive district championships to five consecutive years. Lee returns five starters on offense including Beverly (1,000 yards, 10 TDs). Beverly will be helped with Crawford, White, Black, Perry and Myers. Defensively, Lee must replace five starters but returns Barnes (FSU commitment), Glover, Terry and Parker. From 1990-2004, the Bucs made two playoff appearances, yet the last four years the Bucs have made four consecutive trips under Lee, look for them to make it five in a row.
Fletcher Senators
Head Coach: Joe Reynolds (20th season)
2008 Record: 10-1
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Lamar Scruggs (WR), Deschion Baskerville (RB), Andrew Stellato (TE), Marcus Berg (CB/WR), James Rominger (Sr., LB), Paris Lee (RB), Deshawn Green (WR), Aaron Levine (K)
Key returners: Jamal Christopher (Sr., LB), Jake Medlock (Sr., QB), Dylan Bostick (Sr., OL), Taron Johnson (Sr., LB), Jake Guisti (Sr., LB), Mitchell Hester (Jr., RB), Laquille Lawrence (Sr., WR), Zach Reynolds, (Sr., RB), Houston Brown (Sr., DB)
News: In Reynolds twentieth and final season, the veteran coach would like to go out with a bang perhaps a state title. Whether or not he does that will depend on how several newcomers develop as Reynolds will have to fill several major holes on both sides of the ball. The offense was hit the worst as Reynolds sees Scruggs (688 yards, 8 TD’s, 42 catches), Baskerville (1,531 yards, 20 TDs, 196 carries), Lee, Green and Stellato all gone. Reynolds does return Medlock (2, 813 yards, 28 TDs, 8 INTs), Bostick, Hester and Lawrence as well as defensive guys Guisti (133 tackles, 8 INTs), Christopher and Johnson. The retirement of Reynolds comes part of pact, seeing friends offensive coordinator Ricky Medlock and defensive coordinator Kevin Brown all retiring along with watching their sons Zach Reynolds, Jake Medlock, and Houston Brown all graduate.
Gainesville Buchholz Bobcats
Head Coach: Bob Godwin
2008 Record: 5-6
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Kevin Prindle (QB), Jordan Weingart (OL), Ian Brown (OL), Antrwan Hughes (LB), Sean Redmond (OL), Andrew Banks (OL), Jordan Labby (RB), Cortreal Scott (DE), Richard Hagley (FS/SS), Reshard Norton (DB/WR), Kyle Oehlbeck (LB), Justin Keith (DT), Mikale Foster (DB/WR)
Key returners: Aaron Grant (Sr., QB), Marquis Noble (Jr., WR/DB), Louie Addazio (Jr., TE/DE), Wintrez Thomas (Jr., RB), Will Rathbone (Jr., OL), Ryan Thomas (Jr., OL), Kenny Harper (Jr., FB/LB), Brian Johnson (Sr., DB), Adrian Foster (Sr., DB), Cameron Dore (Sr., DB)
News: The mystique that once roamed over the state power Buchholz program has faded away over the last few years, Godwin hopes to get it back even though the once power hasn’t won more than five games since going 8-2 in 2004. If Buchholz is going to come back it will be with a lot of new faces as the Bobcats graduated 12 seniors including Prindle (Hamilton College), Oehlbeck (Ga. Southern), Keith (Ga. Tech) and Weingart (West Virginia). Godwin returns at least five part time starters on offense and three on defense. Buchholz will have to replace its top passer (Prindle), runner (Labby), receiver (Foster) and four offensive lineman. Grant shared snaps with Prindle last season and knows the multiple shotgun set offense well and will rely on veterans Noble, Thomas, Addazio along with the only returning offensive lineman Rathbone. In the Bobcats 4-4 defensive scheme, the secondary should be the strongest point with the return of Johnson, Foster and Dore. No starters return in the front eight but Harper, Addazio and Noble should provide two-way depth. A trio juniors defensive end Nathan Snodgrass, linebacker Stacey Williams and linebacker McKenzie Sims will help also.
Middleburg Broncos
Head Coach: Robbie Justino
2008 Record: 1-9
Last time in playoffs: 2003
Key losses: Troy Cannaday (QB), Alex Bradley (LB/FB), Ryan Balsan (OL), Trae Stephenson (RB/LB), Jonathan Delsoin (WR/DB), Aaron Cherry (OL/MLB)
Key returners: Greg Ramsey (Sr., OT), Jack Beote (Sr., QB/FS/WR/P), Cedric Davis (Sr., OL), Ryan Holmes (Sr., RB/LB)
News: Replacing three year starter Cannaday (82 of 175 for 915 yards) won’t be easy, but Beote is up for the challenge. Beote, who saw action at receiver and punter last season, will have two experienced lineman in Ramsey and Davis to work with. Who Beote throws to will be a big question mark after Delsoin (485 yards, 1 TD on 30 catches) moves on. One of those questions may have been solved as Justino picked up a huge weapon in the spring with the transfer of former Fleming Island athlete junior Austin Sweat, Sweat took snaps at quarterback although his primary position is receiver.
Predictions
1. First Coast
2. Fletcher
3. Buchholz
4. Middleburg
District 2-5A preview
District 2-5A
Daytona Seabreeze Sandcrabs
Head Coach: Mark Beach
2008 Record: 8-6
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Jonathan Scott (ATH), Lawrence Martin (OL), Brennan Beal (OL), Chris Ferrito (LB), Nick Siedelhofer (DL), Jernard Morgan (CB), Mitch McGrath (WR)
Key returners: Dominique Roberts (Sr., ATH), Matt Thompson (Sr., QB), Brett Kramer (Sr., WR), Corey King (Jr., DL), John Christopher (Jr., WR), Jackson Shelton (Sr., K)
News: When starting quarterback Matt Thompson went down with a broken ankle in the first half of the first game against Spruce Creek, it appeared Seabreeze season seemed to go down with him. Beach was forced to move receiver Dominique Roberts back to quarterback and the Sandcrabs struggled offensively scoring less than 15 points three of the next four games to get off to a 2-3 start. Just as Seabreeze was starting to get into a rhythm offensively, earning three consecutive wins, they hit a wall at the end being outscored 48-19 in the final two games, including a 34-7 loss to arch-rival Mainland in the regular season finale. Seabreeze appeared to be limping into the playoffs, yet somehow managed to go on the road three consecutive weeks and knock off Land O’Lakes, Merritt Island and Ridgeview, before falling to Tallahassee Lincoln in their eleventh road game of the season in the regional final (Final Four). Thompson returns as does the reigning Daytona News Journal Offensive Player of the Year Dominique Roberts (1,145 passing, 9 TD’s, 1,258 rushing, 17 TDs); as does Jackson Shelton, who made 10 of 13 field goals, including from 45 and 47 yards. Opponents will have to stop a nearly balanced offense, which ran for 2,146 yards while passed for 1,715 yards, while averaging 275 yards a game. One thing Seabreeze must fix is a defense, which gave up 30 points or more in 6 of their 14 games and an average of 229.5 yards per game and loses Ferritto (168 tackles) and Scott (54 tackles, 4 INTs). Beach also picked up a pair of New Smyrna Beach transfers Devonte Mack (No.2 receiver) and Alex Mack.
Flagler Palm Coast Bulldogs
Head Coach: Steve Allen
2008 Record: 4-6
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Johnny Jones (DE/HB), Chris Yevolli (LB), Derik Wolfe (OL), Hector Tanner (DB/WR), Fritz Jean (RB), Rodney Ndum (RB), Reggie Woods (CB), Sheriefe Williams (LB), Victor Melendez (DT), Zach Sohns (DL), Jake Earp (LB)
Key returners: Blake Bertha (Sr., DL), Kenlee Critcher (Sr., QB/P/K/WR), Cory Shelings (Sr., WR), Nick Shaw (Jr., LB), Deron Green (Jr., RB), Marc Morgan (Sr., SS), Gordon Saleem (Jr., OL), Markes Thomas (Jr., FB), John Smith (Jr., RB), Cyril Stubbs (Sr., WR), Cory Soard (Jr., QB/WR), Joshay Tinsley (Sr., DB), Grayson Merriwether (Jr., DT) , Kent Coleman (Sr., DT), Chris Stubbs (Jr., DB)
News: All signs pointed toward Palm Coast having a big year last season unfortunately things didn’t go as planned as the Bulldogs wrapped up a stunning six losses, five of which were by less than 14 points. Allen will have to rebuild several holes on both sides of the ball, including most of his defense that only gave up 180 yards of offense a game including Yevolli (112 tackles), Woods (75 tackles), Williams (73 tackles), Melendez (70 tackles) and Sohns (62 tackles). However, he does return Shaw (116 tackles, 2 sacks), Morgan (80 tackles), Tinsley (47 tackles), Bertha (44 tackles), Merriwether (44 tackles) and Coleman (31 tackles). An offense that struggled to average just under 200 yards a game returns Critcher (432 passing, 8 INT, 3 TD, 5 of 6 field goals, 34.9 punting average), Green (256 yards, 4 TDs) and Shellings (272 yards on 26 catches, 10.5 y.p.c., 2 TDs).
Fleming Island Golden Eagles
Head Coach: Jeff Webb (first season)
2008 Record: 8-2
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Cory White (OL), Devon Frieson (WR/KR), Justin Cruz (LB), Austin Sweat (Jr., WR)
Key returners: Ian Silberman (Sr., OL), Robert Boswell (Sr., RB/WR/DB), Malcolm Jones (Sr., RB), Stephen Creech (Sr., OL), Addison Denney (Sr., DL), Brian Smith (Sr., DB), Rookie Gunn (Sr., QB)
News: Webb takes over for Neil Chipoletti, who retired in January after six seasons starting the program from scratch. Chipoletti didn’t leave Webb empty handed especially on offense as he returns Silberman (Florida commitment), Creech, Boswell, Jones (835 yards, 9 TD’s on 101 carries) and Gunn (1,000 yards, 7 TDs, 4 INTs on 73 of 119 passing). Webb was dealt a big blow when rising junior Austin Sweat transferred to Middleburg in the spring.
Predictions
1. Fleming Island
2. Seabreeze
3. Palm Coast
Daytona Seabreeze Sandcrabs
Head Coach: Mark Beach
2008 Record: 8-6
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Jonathan Scott (ATH), Lawrence Martin (OL), Brennan Beal (OL), Chris Ferrito (LB), Nick Siedelhofer (DL), Jernard Morgan (CB), Mitch McGrath (WR)
Key returners: Dominique Roberts (Sr., ATH), Matt Thompson (Sr., QB), Brett Kramer (Sr., WR), Corey King (Jr., DL), John Christopher (Jr., WR), Jackson Shelton (Sr., K)
News: When starting quarterback Matt Thompson went down with a broken ankle in the first half of the first game against Spruce Creek, it appeared Seabreeze season seemed to go down with him. Beach was forced to move receiver Dominique Roberts back to quarterback and the Sandcrabs struggled offensively scoring less than 15 points three of the next four games to get off to a 2-3 start. Just as Seabreeze was starting to get into a rhythm offensively, earning three consecutive wins, they hit a wall at the end being outscored 48-19 in the final two games, including a 34-7 loss to arch-rival Mainland in the regular season finale. Seabreeze appeared to be limping into the playoffs, yet somehow managed to go on the road three consecutive weeks and knock off Land O’Lakes, Merritt Island and Ridgeview, before falling to Tallahassee Lincoln in their eleventh road game of the season in the regional final (Final Four). Thompson returns as does the reigning Daytona News Journal Offensive Player of the Year Dominique Roberts (1,145 passing, 9 TD’s, 1,258 rushing, 17 TDs); as does Jackson Shelton, who made 10 of 13 field goals, including from 45 and 47 yards. Opponents will have to stop a nearly balanced offense, which ran for 2,146 yards while passed for 1,715 yards, while averaging 275 yards a game. One thing Seabreeze must fix is a defense, which gave up 30 points or more in 6 of their 14 games and an average of 229.5 yards per game and loses Ferritto (168 tackles) and Scott (54 tackles, 4 INTs). Beach also picked up a pair of New Smyrna Beach transfers Devonte Mack (No.2 receiver) and Alex Mack.
Flagler Palm Coast Bulldogs
Head Coach: Steve Allen
2008 Record: 4-6
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Johnny Jones (DE/HB), Chris Yevolli (LB), Derik Wolfe (OL), Hector Tanner (DB/WR), Fritz Jean (RB), Rodney Ndum (RB), Reggie Woods (CB), Sheriefe Williams (LB), Victor Melendez (DT), Zach Sohns (DL), Jake Earp (LB)
Key returners: Blake Bertha (Sr., DL), Kenlee Critcher (Sr., QB/P/K/WR), Cory Shelings (Sr., WR), Nick Shaw (Jr., LB), Deron Green (Jr., RB), Marc Morgan (Sr., SS), Gordon Saleem (Jr., OL), Markes Thomas (Jr., FB), John Smith (Jr., RB), Cyril Stubbs (Sr., WR), Cory Soard (Jr., QB/WR), Joshay Tinsley (Sr., DB), Grayson Merriwether (Jr., DT) , Kent Coleman (Sr., DT), Chris Stubbs (Jr., DB)
News: All signs pointed toward Palm Coast having a big year last season unfortunately things didn’t go as planned as the Bulldogs wrapped up a stunning six losses, five of which were by less than 14 points. Allen will have to rebuild several holes on both sides of the ball, including most of his defense that only gave up 180 yards of offense a game including Yevolli (112 tackles), Woods (75 tackles), Williams (73 tackles), Melendez (70 tackles) and Sohns (62 tackles). However, he does return Shaw (116 tackles, 2 sacks), Morgan (80 tackles), Tinsley (47 tackles), Bertha (44 tackles), Merriwether (44 tackles) and Coleman (31 tackles). An offense that struggled to average just under 200 yards a game returns Critcher (432 passing, 8 INT, 3 TD, 5 of 6 field goals, 34.9 punting average), Green (256 yards, 4 TDs) and Shellings (272 yards on 26 catches, 10.5 y.p.c., 2 TDs).
Fleming Island Golden Eagles
Head Coach: Jeff Webb (first season)
2008 Record: 8-2
Last time in playoffs: 2007
Key losses: Cory White (OL), Devon Frieson (WR/KR), Justin Cruz (LB), Austin Sweat (Jr., WR)
Key returners: Ian Silberman (Sr., OL), Robert Boswell (Sr., RB/WR/DB), Malcolm Jones (Sr., RB), Stephen Creech (Sr., OL), Addison Denney (Sr., DL), Brian Smith (Sr., DB), Rookie Gunn (Sr., QB)
News: Webb takes over for Neil Chipoletti, who retired in January after six seasons starting the program from scratch. Chipoletti didn’t leave Webb empty handed especially on offense as he returns Silberman (Florida commitment), Creech, Boswell, Jones (835 yards, 9 TD’s on 101 carries) and Gunn (1,000 yards, 7 TDs, 4 INTs on 73 of 119 passing). Webb was dealt a big blow when rising junior Austin Sweat transferred to Middleburg in the spring.
Predictions
1. Fleming Island
2. Seabreeze
3. Palm Coast
District 1-6A preview
District 1-6A
Mandarin Mustangs
Head Coach: Jason Robinson (second year)
2008 Record: 7-3
Last time in playoffs: 2005
Key losses: Jonathan Pillow (QB), Wilfredo Acosta (WR), Tyler Cardey (WR), Matt Belser (LB/FB/DE), Rodney Baxter (WR), Matt Robinson (WR), Sam Clodfelter (OL), Joseph Babadi (OL), Greg Entzi (OL), Kirhy Smith (RB), Salmon Willams (RB), Chris Hall (DB), Diondre Walker (LB), Cody Carter (DL)
Top Players: Kevin Bell (Sr., CB/RB/WR), Larry Mitchell (Sr., LB), Trey Davidson (Sr., OL), Ryan Chatham (Jr., QB), Chelton Carter (Sr., WR), Alex Gallaher (Sr., K/P), Mose Countryman (Sr., TE/OL), Melvin Williams (Jr., DB), Daniel Cherry (Sr., WR), Worship Chaleka (Jr., WR)
News: What a first season for Robinson, who took over a program still in shock from the death of their former head coach JD Hall. Mandarin bounced back last season only to be the odd team out in three-way tiebreaker for the district championship and runner up spot in the playoffs. Robinson must replace several holes on offense in all four areas quarterback, tailback, offensive line and receivers. With Pillow gone, Chatham takes over and will have to rely on veterans Chelton Carter (789 yards, 4 TD’s on 47 receptions) and Countryman (a Division I prospect) to help groom several newcomers; while Mitchell (11 sacks, four interceptions and 183 tackles in his career) leads the defense.
Ocala Forest Wildcats
Head Coach: David Hodges (third year)
2008 Record: 8-2
Last time in playoffs: 2004
Key losses: Doug Webb (ATH), Larry Greene (LB), Jonathan Kletter (TE), Richard Bostick (LB), Alan Singleton (WR), Jesse Pettis (DL), Anthony Morrison (LB)
Key returners: Ricky Carter (Jr., OT), Adam Fontana (Jr., OG), Cameron Pennell (Sr., C), Ryan Singleton (Sr., OG), Dylan Sexton (Sr., TE), Zac Welch (Sr., QB), Donald Webb (Sr., RB), James Reid (Jr., RB), James Brooks (So., WR), Erik Hindmon (Jr., LB), Devan Roberts (Sr., DB), Antonio Dickson (Sr., S), Nolan McCaskill (Sr., CB), Kevin Kennel (Sr., DT), Garret Warren (Sr., DT), Jamaree Broadhurst (Sr., LB), Chris Veron (Sr., PK/P), B.J. Spikes (So., LB)
News: Having to wait on several underclassmen to develop early on may be downfall for the Wildcats, as Hodges started 11 sophomores in a surprising 14-7 win over arch-rival Vanguard in the spring game. The loss of leading tackler Doug Webb and third team all-state selection Jonathan Greene to graduation will be hard to replace. Forest does return 10 starters on offense and 6 on defense. Among the many players Forest is heavily counting on is Veron, who had interests from Alabama, Florida and FSU, before committing to South Florida in the summer. Aside from being a 3.03 core student, Veron put 58 of 65 kickoffs in the end zone with 30 of them reaching out of the end zone, booted a 51-yard field and averaged 43 yards per punt last season.
Orange Park Raiders
Head Coach: Danny Green (second year)
2008 Record: 10-3
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Estevan Cintron (RB), Chris Wiggins (K/DB), Aubrey Felder (RB), Matt Garcia (OL), Chris Dent (LB), Cody Allen (OL), O’Brien Abner (OL)
Key returners: C.J. Stallworth (Sr., RB), Demetre Baker (Sr., OLB/RB), Travis Felder (Sr., RB), Quan Whitley (Sr., ATH), Antonio Thomas (Sr., WR), Andrew Denton (Sr., QB), Jacob Hagen (Sr., DB/WR), Andrew Denton (Sr., QB)
News: Green’s first season was a shocking one to say the least, turning a program -which averaged two wins a season- including one win the previous year, into a third round playoff appearance, its longest run since going to the Final Four in 1992. Year two will be filled with having to replace several offensive starters including three offensive lineman and two tailbacks including Navy bound Aubrey Felder (826 yards, 6 TDs, 12.0 y.p.c.). However, the Raiders do return Denton, Felder, Baker (Georgia commitment) and Stallworth along with Ridgeview transfer junior tailback Damon Kelly, in an offense that accumulated 2,603 rushing yards and averaged 330.0 yards per game.
Sandalwood Saints
Head Coach: Adam Geiss (first year)
2008 Record: 1-9
Last time in playoffs: 2006
Key losses: Devin Bland (OL), Julian Cinotti (LB), Elton Belcher (DB)
Key returners: Calvin Bryant (Sr., LB), Dalton Dixon (Sr., WR), Austin McKinley (Sr., QB)
News: To say anything less than a mess has occurred at Sandalwood the last couple of years would be an understatement. After six years Geiss (37-28) resigned and former longtime head coach Bob Withrow (91-30, 12 seasons) was brought back to bring some much needed discipline back to the program, which led to several kids transferring out. After one season, Withrow was forced to retire following a 1-9 season and Geiss, who remained at the school was rehired and several of the players who left have been rumored to have transferred back. McKinley and Dixon, also a baseball standout, return to an offense, which ran for 1,632 yards and averaged 223 yards per game.
Predictions
1. Orange Park
2. Mandarin
3. Ocala Forest
4. Sandalwood
Mandarin Mustangs
Head Coach: Jason Robinson (second year)
2008 Record: 7-3
Last time in playoffs: 2005
Key losses: Jonathan Pillow (QB), Wilfredo Acosta (WR), Tyler Cardey (WR), Matt Belser (LB/FB/DE), Rodney Baxter (WR), Matt Robinson (WR), Sam Clodfelter (OL), Joseph Babadi (OL), Greg Entzi (OL), Kirhy Smith (RB), Salmon Willams (RB), Chris Hall (DB), Diondre Walker (LB), Cody Carter (DL)
Top Players: Kevin Bell (Sr., CB/RB/WR), Larry Mitchell (Sr., LB), Trey Davidson (Sr., OL), Ryan Chatham (Jr., QB), Chelton Carter (Sr., WR), Alex Gallaher (Sr., K/P), Mose Countryman (Sr., TE/OL), Melvin Williams (Jr., DB), Daniel Cherry (Sr., WR), Worship Chaleka (Jr., WR)
News: What a first season for Robinson, who took over a program still in shock from the death of their former head coach JD Hall. Mandarin bounced back last season only to be the odd team out in three-way tiebreaker for the district championship and runner up spot in the playoffs. Robinson must replace several holes on offense in all four areas quarterback, tailback, offensive line and receivers. With Pillow gone, Chatham takes over and will have to rely on veterans Chelton Carter (789 yards, 4 TD’s on 47 receptions) and Countryman (a Division I prospect) to help groom several newcomers; while Mitchell (11 sacks, four interceptions and 183 tackles in his career) leads the defense.
Ocala Forest Wildcats
Head Coach: David Hodges (third year)
2008 Record: 8-2
Last time in playoffs: 2004
Key losses: Doug Webb (ATH), Larry Greene (LB), Jonathan Kletter (TE), Richard Bostick (LB), Alan Singleton (WR), Jesse Pettis (DL), Anthony Morrison (LB)
Key returners: Ricky Carter (Jr., OT), Adam Fontana (Jr., OG), Cameron Pennell (Sr., C), Ryan Singleton (Sr., OG), Dylan Sexton (Sr., TE), Zac Welch (Sr., QB), Donald Webb (Sr., RB), James Reid (Jr., RB), James Brooks (So., WR), Erik Hindmon (Jr., LB), Devan Roberts (Sr., DB), Antonio Dickson (Sr., S), Nolan McCaskill (Sr., CB), Kevin Kennel (Sr., DT), Garret Warren (Sr., DT), Jamaree Broadhurst (Sr., LB), Chris Veron (Sr., PK/P), B.J. Spikes (So., LB)
News: Having to wait on several underclassmen to develop early on may be downfall for the Wildcats, as Hodges started 11 sophomores in a surprising 14-7 win over arch-rival Vanguard in the spring game. The loss of leading tackler Doug Webb and third team all-state selection Jonathan Greene to graduation will be hard to replace. Forest does return 10 starters on offense and 6 on defense. Among the many players Forest is heavily counting on is Veron, who had interests from Alabama, Florida and FSU, before committing to South Florida in the summer. Aside from being a 3.03 core student, Veron put 58 of 65 kickoffs in the end zone with 30 of them reaching out of the end zone, booted a 51-yard field and averaged 43 yards per punt last season.
Orange Park Raiders
Head Coach: Danny Green (second year)
2008 Record: 10-3
Last time in playoffs: 2008
Key losses: Estevan Cintron (RB), Chris Wiggins (K/DB), Aubrey Felder (RB), Matt Garcia (OL), Chris Dent (LB), Cody Allen (OL), O’Brien Abner (OL)
Key returners: C.J. Stallworth (Sr., RB), Demetre Baker (Sr., OLB/RB), Travis Felder (Sr., RB), Quan Whitley (Sr., ATH), Antonio Thomas (Sr., WR), Andrew Denton (Sr., QB), Jacob Hagen (Sr., DB/WR), Andrew Denton (Sr., QB)
News: Green’s first season was a shocking one to say the least, turning a program -which averaged two wins a season- including one win the previous year, into a third round playoff appearance, its longest run since going to the Final Four in 1992. Year two will be filled with having to replace several offensive starters including three offensive lineman and two tailbacks including Navy bound Aubrey Felder (826 yards, 6 TDs, 12.0 y.p.c.). However, the Raiders do return Denton, Felder, Baker (Georgia commitment) and Stallworth along with Ridgeview transfer junior tailback Damon Kelly, in an offense that accumulated 2,603 rushing yards and averaged 330.0 yards per game.
Sandalwood Saints
Head Coach: Adam Geiss (first year)
2008 Record: 1-9
Last time in playoffs: 2006
Key losses: Devin Bland (OL), Julian Cinotti (LB), Elton Belcher (DB)
Key returners: Calvin Bryant (Sr., LB), Dalton Dixon (Sr., WR), Austin McKinley (Sr., QB)
News: To say anything less than a mess has occurred at Sandalwood the last couple of years would be an understatement. After six years Geiss (37-28) resigned and former longtime head coach Bob Withrow (91-30, 12 seasons) was brought back to bring some much needed discipline back to the program, which led to several kids transferring out. After one season, Withrow was forced to retire following a 1-9 season and Geiss, who remained at the school was rehired and several of the players who left have been rumored to have transferred back. McKinley and Dixon, also a baseball standout, return to an offense, which ran for 1,632 yards and averaged 223 yards per game.
Predictions
1. Orange Park
2. Mandarin
3. Ocala Forest
4. Sandalwood
2009 Kickoff Classics
After two weeks of practice, teams are ready to hit someone besides their own teammates for once. Here are this years kickoff classics and preseason games.
Aug 27
Andrew Jackson at Fletcher
Deland at Nease
Eagle's View at Ribault
Aug 28
Yulee at Baldwin
Mandarin at Bartram Trail
Mandarin Christian at Bishop Snyder
First Coast at Bolles
Williston at Bradford
Suwannee at Chiefland
Providence at Clay
Fort White at Columbia
Matanzas at Crescent City
Trinity Christian at Ed White
Creekside at Episcopal
Robert E. Lee at Fleming Island
Union County at Hamilton County
Calvary Christian at Hilliard
PK Yonge at Interlachen
Ridgeview at Keystone Heights
Englewood at Menendez
Bishop Kenny at Orange Park
Eastside at Palatka
Fernandina Beach at Ponte Vedra
Stanton at Sandalwood
Buchholz at Santa Fe
Arlington Country Day, Raines at St. Augustine
Cedar Creek at St. Joseph
Paxon at University Christian
Baker County at West Nassau
Aug 27
Andrew Jackson at Fletcher
Deland at Nease
Eagle's View at Ribault
Aug 28
Yulee at Baldwin
Mandarin at Bartram Trail
Mandarin Christian at Bishop Snyder
First Coast at Bolles
Williston at Bradford
Suwannee at Chiefland
Providence at Clay
Fort White at Columbia
Matanzas at Crescent City
Trinity Christian at Ed White
Creekside at Episcopal
Robert E. Lee at Fleming Island
Union County at Hamilton County
Calvary Christian at Hilliard
PK Yonge at Interlachen
Ridgeview at Keystone Heights
Englewood at Menendez
Bishop Kenny at Orange Park
Eastside at Palatka
Fernandina Beach at Ponte Vedra
Stanton at Sandalwood
Buchholz at Santa Fe
Arlington Country Day, Raines at St. Augustine
Cedar Creek at St. Joseph
Paxon at University Christian
Baker County at West Nassau
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