COLORADO LEAGUE
BENNETT TIGERS
Coach: Daryl Beck.
2006 record: 5-4.
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2004.
Strength: Seniors, and the running game.
Weakness: Competing against league big boys.
Players to watch: George Gutierrez, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 225; Jordan Hill, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 275; Bryson Jordan, Jr., FB-LB, 6-2, 190; Tyler Laducer, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 195; Steven Ronan, Sr., RB-LB, 5-9, 190.
In 2007: The Tigers believe they’re on the cusp of something special. Three good running backs have good linemen to pave their way. The defense has switched to a 4-3 alignment and should be tough on the interior.
CLEAR CREEK GOLDDIGGERS
Coach: Tony Villani.
2006 record: 1-7.
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1999.
Strength: Offensive line.
Weakness: Lack of poise.
Players to watch: Chris Ball, Jr., QB, 5-10, 175; Sean Hudak, Sr., S, 6-0, 180; Tyler Lewis, Sr., TE-LB, 6-3, 180; Mark Moore, Sr., RB-DB, 5-10, 190; Steven O’Malley, Jr., LB, 5-8, 170; Tim Shelton, Sr., WR, 6-1, 175.
In 2007: The Golddiggers felt like a 4-5 team last year and think they will be at least that good this season because of a strong foundation. The linemen have size and the offense is flexible. With a strong secondary, the defense will stack nine in the box.
COLORADO SPRINGS CHRISTIAN LIONS
Coach: Paul Passno.
2006 record: 8-3.
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 38-3 to Faith Christian in quarterfinals.
Strength: Skill positions and linebackers.
Weakness: Youth in the trenches.
Players to watch: Matt Baarts, Sr., WR, 6-6, 210; Rocco Bachara, Jr., QB, 6-1, 170; David Bush, Sr., LB-WR-TE, 6-0, 177; Cody Klingenberg, Sr., LB-RB, 6-0, 170; Drew O’Cain, Sr., K-P, 6-3, 185; Ethan Pace, Jr., DB-PR, 5-10, 145; Tyler Patterson, Jr., OL-DL, 5-11, 235; Darren Pellett, Sr., OL-DL-LB, 6-0, 210; Jake Snow, So., DB, 5-8, 147; Tucker Veltkamp, Sr., WR-DB, 6-1, 175.
In 2007: The Lions are talented, but maturity will be their key to significant success. Klingenberg is talented in the backfield and Baarts’ football debut should be special. O’Cain could have the best leg in 2A.
DENVER CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS
Coach: Mark Swalley.
2006 record: 7-4.
Returning starters: Four offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 27-12 to Holy Family in quarterfinals.
Strength: Linebackers.
Weakness: Inexperience offensive line.
Players to watch: Chad Colby, Sr., G-LB, 6-2, 235; John Linderink, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 175; Ty Neteland, Sr., RB-LB, 6-1, 195; Jordan Ham, Sr., WR-DB, 5-11, 155; C.J. Carol, Jr., RB-LB, 5-11, 205.
In 2007: Running the ball and controlling the tempo will be the Crusaders’ mantra. No shootouts, please. The quarterback situation is in flux, but the line and backfield might not need a star at QB.
KENT DENVER SUN DEVILS
Coach: Scott Yates.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2005.
Strength: Team speed and experience.
Weakness: Lack of size.
Players to watch: Henry Clark, Sr., WR-DB, 6-1, 180; Harry Jackson, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 195; Pat Jackman, Sr., DB-WR, 5-9, 165; Jordan Lujan, Sr., OL, 5-9, 195; Dylan McCagg, Sr., TE-LB, 6-2, 210; Connor Miller, Sr., OL, 5-9, 185; Mike Morahan, Sr., WR-LB, 5-10, 175; Patrick Murray; Jr., RB, 6-1, 220; Lucien Reichert, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 210; Michael Reilly, Sr., WR-DB, 6-2, 175.
In 2007: Experience and talent should carry the Sun Devils into the playoffs. The running game should be solid. The defense will lean on the linebackers.
PLATTE CANYON HUSKIES
Coach: Mike Schmidt.
2006 record: 6-4.
Returning starters: Eight offense, seven defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 42-7 to Faith Christian in preliminaries.
Strength: Team speed.
Weakness: Lack of size and depth.
Players to watch: Greg Davis, Sr., LB-TE, 6-1, 185; Josh Hopkins, Sr., OT-DT, 6-4, 200; A.J. Melillo, Jr., RB-LB, 5-10, 180; Michael Pollick, Jr., RB-DT, 6-0, 190; Ben Wegener, Sr., RB-QB-DB, 5-9, 160; Dillon Whisman, Jr., RB-LB, 5-10, 190.
In 2007: Everyone knows the Huskies run the ball a lot. But with experience and more speed, they will do it better and add some wrinkles. The defense still looks tough and won’t change a thing.
SHERIDAN RAMS
Coach: Matt Sloan.
2006 record: 2-7.
Returning starters: Eight offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1999.
Strength: Skill positions.
Weakness: Lack of depth.
Players to watch: Alex Barela, Sr., OL-DL, 5-9, 240; Rudy Gonzalez, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 220; Jose Hernandez, Sr., RB-LB, 5-9, 165; Nick Jackson, Jr., WR-LB, 6-1, 150; Scotty McCarthy, So., TE-DB, 6-3, 150; Aaron Sloan, Jr., QB, 6-3, 170; Cody Stivers, Jr., WR-DB, 5-9, 150; Shawn Valdez, Sr., OL-DL, 6-3, 250.
In 2007: A new offensive coordinator will concentrate on utilizing the skill players. The Rams are “paper thin” and will be using sophomores and freshmen if injuries occur. The defense is young and will scheme creatively.
FLATIRONS LEAGUE
THE ACADEMY WILDCATS
Coach: Seth Replogle.
2006 record: 0-9.
Last playoff appearance: None.
Strength: Speed at the skill positions.
Weakness: Learning how to win.
Players to watch: David Bowen, Sr., QB-DB, 6-1, 185; Tim Daniels, Sr., RB-LB, 5-11, 165; Jeff Elliott, Sr., OT-LB, 6-0, 190; Matt Odiaga, Sr., WR-DB, 5-8, 160; Nate Rose, Sr., OT-DT, 6-2, 250.
In 2007: Replogle, offensive coordinator at Horizon last season, takes over the Wildcats and brings a triple-option attack and an aggressive defensive scheme that will show multiple fronts. Getting the ball to the best athletes will be important.
BISHOP MACHEBEUF BUFFALOES
Coach: Tom Tesone.
2006 record: 3-6.
Returning starters: Five offense, four defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1988.
Strength: Speed and experience at the skill positions.
Weakness: Lack of size, and inexperience.
Players to watch: Adonis Brown, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 195; Charlie Burgner, Jr., WR-DB, 6-0, 185; Josh Hobbs, So., FB-LB, 5-8, 190; Jordan Knutson, Jr., TE-DE, 6-4, 215; Aubree Pricket, So., RB-LB, 5-8, 175; Frank Moore, So., OT, 6-4, 310.
In 2007: Brown leads an offense that will revamp itself again. Watch for more vertical passing and better execution behind an experienced line. The defense has to win the battles up front.
ERIE TIGERS
Coach: Larry Gartrell.
2006 record: 8-2.
Returning starters: Eight offense, five defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 26-7 to Platte Valley in preliminaries.
Strength: Skill positions and offensive linemen.
Weakness: Inexperienced linebackers.
Players to watch: Jarod Barros, Sr., RB, 5-9 180; Cees Doxsey, Jr., DL, 6-1, 305; Cody Fulton, Sr., RB, 5-10, 170; Cody Hesse, Sr, TE-K, 6-0, 185; Justin Whitfield, Sr., OL, 6-1, 235.
In 2007: The Tigers have three strong running backs and will ride their double-wing offense. The passing game won’t be as vertical. If the linebackers step up, the defense will be tough to dent.
FAITH CHRISTIAN EAGLES
Coach: Blair Hubbard.
2006 record: 13-0.
Returning starters: Four offense, two defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, defeated Platte Valley 41-7 in championship game.
Strength: Competitive seniors and experienced quarterback.
Weakness: Inexperience in big games.
Players to watch: Seve Carbajal, Sr., QB, 5-10, 175; Mark Cerf, Sr., LB, 5-10, 195; Colby Valenta, Sr., OL, 6-0, 225; Trent Vigil, Sr., FB, 6-0, 202.
In 2007: With so many talented players having graduated, the Eagles will be reloading. The talent, of course, exists in excess. Defensive line won’t be as big but a good quarterback gives the offense options.
HOLY FAMILY TIGERS
Coach: Jim Bratten.
2006 record: 9-3.
Returning starters: Nine offense, eight defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 39-26 to Platte Valley in semifinals.
Strength: Experience across the board.
Weakness: Lack of depth at quarterback.
Players to watch: Quincy Anderson, Sr., OL, 6-1, 245; R.J. Balzen, Sr., RB, 6-1, 210; Matt Bodman, Jr., LB, 5-11, 205; Mike Demmon, Sr., LB, 6-0, 205; John Ferrera, Sr., OL, 5-9, 195; Marcus Harvey, Jr., DL, 6-3, 250; Drew Hawkins, Sr., QB-S, 6-2, 180; Nick Lavriola, Sr., OL, 6-1, 215; Joe Mack, Jr., DL, 5-10, 250; Andy Maul, Sr., DB-RB, 5-9, 165; Matt Melcher, Sr., DB-WR, 5-11, 175; Mike Quinlin, Sr., TE, 6-4, 215; Steven Thatcher, Sr., C, 6-0, 215; Ellis VonRivenburgh, Sr., RB, 5-10, 160; T.J. Wood, Jr., LB, 6-1, 195.
In 2007: With great speed, experience and talent at the skill positions, size in the trenches, defensive backs capable of playing man-to-man coverage and a good kicking game, the Tigers have the pieces to be very good.
MIDDLE PARK PANTHERS
Coach: Marc Loberg.
2006 record: 5-4.
Returning starters: Two offense, four defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1994.
Strength: Team-oriented newcomers.
Weakness: Inexperience.
Players to watch: Rodney Garrett, Sr., OT, 6-0, 195; Alex Morrow, Sr., RB, 5-9, 165; Mike Schmidt, Jr., QB, 6-1, 190; Chad Sprague, Sr., TE, 6-1, 185.
In 2007: The skill positions are solid, especially at quarterback, where Schmidt will need his linebacker’s mentality while the offensive line develops. The option attack remains and the defense is unchanged.
STRAUSBURG INDIANS
Coach: Jeff Giger.
2006 record: 1-8.
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2002 (1A).
Strength: Young talent.
Weakness: Inexperience.
Players to watch: Craig Furstenau, Sr., FB-LB, 5-10, 185; Kameron Weber, Jr., TE-LB, 5-11, 160; Isaac Woodward, Sr., RB-DE, 5-11, 165.
In 2007: The young Indians got beat up last season, but they did grow up. Leaning to win will be a process. The systems stay the same, except for a few wrinkles in the 3-5 defensive scheme.
MOUNTAIN LEAGUE
BAYFIELD WOLVERINES
Coach: Marshall Hahn.
2006 record: 2-7.
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2003.
Strength: Senior leadership.
Weakness: Lack of a winning mentality.
Players to watch: Zach Adams, Jr., LB-RB, 5-10, 170; Marshall Bebee, Sr., RB-LB, 5-11, 180; Jeff Huffmeyer, Jr., QB-DB, 6-0, 170; Jordan Larsen, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 170; Westin Vayre, Sr., OT-DT, 5-10, 220.
In 2007: Hahn, previously the defensive backs coach at Durango, has brought the split-back veer offense and a 4-3 defense. Huffmeyer is the athlete the Wolverines will need to shine.
BUENA VISTA DEMONS
Coach: Bob Marken.
2006 record: 6-3.
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2005.
Strength: Experience, especially on the offensive line.
Weakness: Lack of depth.
Players to watch: Jordan Graff, Sr., FB-LB, 6-1, 220; Josh Graff, Sr., G, 6-2, 195; Larson Greenfield, Jr., RB, 5-9, 160; Ryan Olive, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 160; Corey Orth, Sr., OT-DE, 6-5, 235.
In 2007: The Demons are sticking with their shotgun spread offense, anchored by a strong offensive line. To earn their 10th postseason trip in the past 12 years, the Demons must improve on defense, especially up front.
CENTAURI FALCONS
Coach: Greg Jones.
2006 record: 3-6.
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1997.
Strength: Senior leaders.
Weakness: Lack of depth and experience.
Players to watch: Joel Garner, Sr., RB-S, 5-10, 180; Colby Hunt, Jr., RB-DB, 6-0, 175; Tate King, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 215; Mitchell Polkowske, Sr., QB-S, 5-10, 160; Brandon Rogers, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 200; Brad Sowards, Sr., TE-LB, 5-11, 170.
In 2007: The Falcons should be able to run the ball well, but they will need Polkowske to make defenses pay for stacking the box. The seniors need to step up and provide leadership.
LAKE COUNTY PANTHERS
Coach: Rob Paine.
2006 record: Did not play.
Returning starters: None.
Last playoff appearance: 1990.
Strength: Support from school administrators.
Weakness: Most of the Panthers didn’t play last season.
Players to watch: Justin Lopez, Sr., QB, 6-1, 175; Charlie Mitchell, Sr., FB, 5-11, 185; Julian Martinez, Jr., OL-DL, 5-11, 245; Jonathan Orandy, Jr., RB, 5-9, 155.
In 2007: The Panthers are back after a one-year hiatus and Paine, their first-year coach, is preaching respect. Roster numbers are up from two years seasons ago. The team is young and wants to prove itself.
MONTE VISTA PIRATES
Coach: Jim McAuliffe.
2006 record: 7-3.
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 21-20 to Colorado Springs Christian in preliminaries.
Strength: Team experience.
Weakness: Lack of team speed and size.
Players to watch: Adam Garcia, Jr., RB-LB, 5-6, 150; German Gutierrez, Sr., G-LB, 5-10, 190; Justin Prieto, Sr., RB-LB, 5-9, 165; Eduardo Rascon, Sr., OT-DT, 6-1, 210; Andres Torres, Sr., G-LB, 5-9, 190; Zach Trujillo, Sr., RB-DB, 5-7, 140.
In 2007: McAuliffe says the Pirates won’t beat many teams in a 100-yard dash, but they are quick and get off the ball well. The schemes are unchanged. Getting back to the playoffs and past the first round is a goal.
PAGOSA SPRINGS PIRATES
Coach: Sean O’Donnell.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: One offense, three defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2005.
Strength: Talented skill positions.
Weakness: Lack of experience.
Players to watch: Dan Cammack, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 170; Garrett Campbell, Sr., OL-LB, 5-11, 185; Joe DuCharme, Jr., QB-LB, 5-9, 165; Eric Hurd, Sr., RB-LB, 5-11, 185.
In 2007: Losing 18 seniors from the 2006 team hurts. But the Pirates have young talent at the skill positions, seniors in the trenches and three returning linebackers. With experience, the Pirates will be competitive.
SALIDA SPARTANS
Coach: Phil Gardunio.
2006 record: 8-3.
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 35-0 to Platte Valley in quarterfinals.
Strength: Team speed.
Weakness: Lack of depth and experience.
Players to watch: Mark Bourget, Sr., LB-QB, 6-1, 190; Derrik Frieda, Jr., DE-TE, 5-10, 170; Leeland Graves, So., LB-FB, 5-8, 165; Zach Short, Jr., RB-DB, 5-10, 160.
In 2007: With just four seniors and a handful of juniors, the Spartans have to dig deep to compete for four quarters. The defense will use a variety of sets and stunts and the offense plans to stick with the running game.
PATRIOT LEAGUE
BRUSH BEETDIGGERS
Coach: Randy Dreitz.
2006 record: 11-1.
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 7-0 to Faith Christian in semifinals.
Strength: Program has a tradition of winning.
Weakness: Many positions will have new starters.
Players to watch: Arturo Garcia, Jr., QB, 5-11, 175; Rocco Portuese, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 240; Jared Spooner, Sr., DB-WR, 6-3, 175.
In 2007: With so much turnover and many starters yet to be determined, Dreitz isn’t sure how the season will play out. But the Beetdiggers seem to find a way to win no matter how much rebuilding is involved.
EATON REDS
Coach: Bill Mondt.
2006 record: 3-6.
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2005.
Strength: Team quickness and an experienced quarterback.
Weakness: Reds must compensate for small size.
Players to watch: Casey Craddock, Sr., OL-DE, 6-1, 215; Lance Korell, Sr., WR-DB, 5-11, 175; Seth Lobato, Jr., QB, 6-5, 200; Derek Maulsby Sr., LB-HB, 6-0, 205.
In 2007: If the defense can find a way to stop opponents and get the ball back in the hands of the offense, the Reds could end up where they expect to be – in the playoffs. Lobato is experienced and athletic.
ESTES PARK BOBCATS
Coach: Paul “Tiny” Koehler.
2006 record: 0-9.
Last playoff appearance: 2003.
Coach Koehler was unavailable for comment.
PLATTE VALLEY BRONCOS
Coach: Michael DeWall.
2006 record: 11-2.
Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 41-7 to Faith Christian in championship game.
Strength: Excellent size on the lines.
Weakness: Filling big shoes at quarterback.
Players to watch: Ty Burman, Sr., CB, 6-1, 170; Everado de La Cruz, Sr., Spec.-FS, 5-9, 160; Armando Gonzalez, Jr., OL, 6-5, 260; Levi Greenly, Sr., OL, 6-5, 260; Parker Guttersen, Sr., TB-QB-CB, 6-0, 180; Erik Hessler, Sr., LB, 6-0, 220; Tate Mekelburg, Jr., WR-TE, 6-3, 215; Kyle Simmons, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 180.
In 2007: The Broncos reached the playoffs for the first time in school history last season and are ready for more success. Three all-state players return and will be supported by bigger linebackers and huge lines.
ROOSEVELT ROUGHRIDERS
Coach: Ed Eastin.
2006 record: 4-6.
Returning starters: Five offense, nine defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 26-7 to Salida in first round.
Strength: The defense has experience.
Weakness: The offense has a few strides to make.
Players to watch: Dustin Frank, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 215; Matt Hernandez, Sr., WR-RB-DB, 5-9 155; Matt Holguin, Sr., QB-SS, 5-10, 175; Jeremiah White, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 200; Nathan Wilson, Sr., WR-LB, 6-1, 190; Jeremiah Wolf Sr., DL, 5-10, 175.
In 2007: Roosevelt has qualified for the postseason three years in a row, and some of the seniors have played on all of those teams. The defensive line is a bit undersized, but quickness makes up for that.
UNIVERSITY BULLDOGS
Coach: Hod Soto.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1985.
Strength: The running game.
Weakness: Question marks on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Seth Flack, Sr., WR-QB, 5-10, 163; Seth Hinkel, SR., OL-DL, 6-2, 210; Shane Mendoza, Sr., WR-QB, 5-10, 190; Dan Palmer, Sr., RB-SS, 6-2, 215; Evan Perez, Sr., WR-CB, 5-8, 155; Andrew Sjberg, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 198.
In 2007: Progress has been made, and the Bulldogs want to be in the race for one of the league’s playoff berths. The option offense can produce big yardage, with Palmer leading the way.
weld central rebels
Coach: Mike Brown.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: Nine offense, eight defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2003.
Strength: Every offensive lineman weighs more than 200 pounds.
Weakness: Must find quality backups and special teams players.
Players to watch: Alan Gudka, So., OL-DT, 6-0, 250; Jimmy Hirsch, Sr., MLB, 5-9, 150; Chris Paper, Sr., WR-DB, 6-0, 170; Nick Prosser, Sr., WR-DB 5-10, 150; Chris Spomer, Sr., OL, 6-0, 270; Justin Trupp, Sr., QB-LB, 6-2, 170; Zach Wolaver, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 200.
In 2007: The Rebels are looking to make a move in a loaded league. Their juniors and seniors have a good deal of playing experience, and team size will be a major benefit.
YUMA INDIANS
Coach: Keith Gille.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2001.
Strength: The running game and defensive backs.
Weakness: Building a roster with small-school numbers.
Players to watch: Alex Brown, Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 215; Zach Diaz, Jr., LB, 5-9, 160; Tyler Durand, Sr., RB, 5-10, 205; Ryan Lebsock, Jr., DB, 6-0, 180; Daren Spencer, Sr., RB, 6-0, 200; Andrew Terrell, Sr., DB, 6-3, 215; Logan Wilkins, Sr., WR, 6-4, 205.
In 2007: Yuma proved a year ago it can compete in a tough league. If the Indians can win the close games this season, a playoff berth might be possible. The team is relatively young, but the junior class has stepped into a leadership position.
TRI-PEAKS LEAGUE
THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY TITANS
Coach: Nate Sassaman.
2006 record: 0-9.
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense.
Last playoff appearance: None.
Strength: Experience at key positions.
Weakness: Young, looking to improve speed and size.
Players to watch: Jimmy Agee, Sr., C-DT, 5-9, 175; Charlie Countess, Jr., LB, 5-8, 160; Brynden Flick, Sr., QB, 5-11, 170; Matt Gackle Jr., TE-LB, 6-0, 190; Luke Northam, Sr., HB, 6-0, 170; Aaron Sather, Sr., WR-FS, 6-2, 160.
In 2007: The school’s athletic director is taking over with an entirely new coaching staff. This is the fourth varsity season for the Titans, who have gone 3-24 the past three years. They are looking for progress.
ELLICOTT THUNDERHAWKS
Coach: Donte Stewart.
2006 record: 2-7.
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2002 (1A).
Strength: Backs and receivers have good speed.
Weakness: Must instill a winning mind-set.
Players to watch: Steven Gustafson, Sr., RB-WR-LB, 5-10, 170; Cody Johnson, Jr., WR, 6-0, 170; Dwight Kadiarus, Jr., CB, 5-10, 160; Clint Schuber, Jr., LB, 6-0, 170; Jacob Steadmon, Sr., WR-S, 5-9, 160.
In 2007: A new coach will run new systems on offense and defense. A good group of seniors has the Thunderhawks thinking about a winning season and a spot in the playoffs.
LA JUNTA TIGERS
Coach: Bob Hinkhouse.
2006 record: 3-6.
Returning starters: Five offense, eight defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2003.
Strength: Talent in the skill positions.
Weakness: Four new starters on the offensive line.
Players to watch: Mason Armstrong, Sr., TE-LB, 6-0, 175; Colin Bailey, Sr., QB-S, 6-0, 175; Ryan Belew, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 165; Derek Gabeheart, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 215; Daniel Mata, Sr., TB-LB, 5-10, 170.
In 2007: Once the young line jells, the offense could keep the Tigers in any game. With more than 60 players in the program, depth should not be a concern.
LAMAR SAVAGES
Coach: Jason Tice.
2006 record: 6-4.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 20-0 to Denver Christian in first round.
Coach Tice was unavailable for comment.
MANITOU SPRINGS MUSTANGS
Coach: John McGee.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: Not available.
Last playoff appearance: 2002.
Strength: Good group of receivers.
Weakness: Light along the lines.
Players to watch: Erik Engberg, Jr., LB, 5-10, 205; Daniel Gieck, Sr., WR, 6-0, 175; Ben Placzek, Sr., RB, 5-9, 155; Alex Rider, Jr., LB, 6-1, 205; Ric Riembert, Sr., WR, 6-0, 180; Jon Shafer, Jr., OL-DL, 5-7, 175; Cory Sienknecht, Sr., QB, 5-11, 170.
In 2007: The Mustangs have a fair amount of talent and want to make a move in a league that appears open behind favored Trinidad.
ST. MARY’S PIRATES
Coach: Matt Walter.
2006 record: 4-5.
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2005.
Strength: Good offensive line will propel the running game.
Weakness: Five new linebackers will start.
Players to watch: Rob Beamer, Sr., RB, 5-10, 175; Reggie Cosar, Sr., TE-LB, 6-1, 180; Nick Grassi, Sr., RB-WR, 5-11, 170; Jeff Grayson Sr., C, 6-0, 250; Ethan Martinez, Sr., QB, 5-9, 160; D.J. Reachard, Sr., WR-DB, 5-11, 170.
In 2007: The Pirates have been on the edge of a league title since Walter took over when this team’s seniors were freshmen, and they feel this is the year to get it done. The offense will be balanced, with Martinez making all the right throws in the preseason.
TRINIDAD MINERS
Coach: Randy Begano.
2006 record: 9-2.
Returning starters: Nine offense, nine defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 22-0 to Brush in quarterfinals.
Strength: It’s hard to find a fault with either side of the line.
Weakness: The offense is looking for balance.
Players to watch: Donny Colangelo, Sr., LB, 5-11, 190; Aaron Dixon, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 200; Andy Espinoza, Sr., LB, 5-11, 210; Gil Martinez, Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 280; P.J. Muñoz, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 255; Casey Patterson, Jr., DB, 5-9, 160; Gabe Santistevan, Sr., RB, 5-10, 180.
In 2007: The Miners should be able to run the ball against anyone, but the offense won’t have to do it all. The defensive front is solid, and the program appears to be on a roll with an experienced senior class.
WESTERN SLOPE LEAGUE
ASPEN SKIERS
Coach: Mike Sirko.
2006 record: 3-6.
Returning starters: Not available.
Last playoff appearance: 1972.
Strength: Progress from last year should continue.
Weakness: Size is a concern on the lines.
Players to watch: Tucker Fasom, Sr., RB, 6-0, 195; Cory Parker, Sr., TE, 6-5, 230; Bo Seguin, Jr., DB, 5-10, 175; Brian Westerlind, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 195.
In 2007: A new coaching staff takes over a program still getting its legs back after starting up again in 2002.
BASALT LONGHORNS
Coach: Forrest Grosh.
2006 record: 3-6.
Returning starters: Five offense, eight defense.
Last playoff appearance: 1987.
Strength: Linebackers are the heart of the defense.
Weakness: Must learn how to finish games.
Players to watch: Dillon Buck, Jr., QB, 6-0, 165; Taylor Freeman-Nico, Jr., TE-DE, 6-5, 230; Morgan Frothingham, Sr., OL-LB, 6-1, 220; Kelly Klein, Sr., OL-NT, 6-0, 175; Willy Klein, Sr., FB-LB, 5-9, 200; Hayden Rinker, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 240; Matt Schoeloer, Sr., RB-DB, 5-8, 160.
In 2007: The Longhorns will need to establish the run to allow their passing game to flourish. The team is healthy, and an improved defense could push Basalt toward the upper half of the league.
CEDAREDGE BRUINS
Coach: Eric Hollembeak.
2006 record: 1-8.
Returning starters: Five offense, four defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2002.
Strength: Special teams are solid.
Weakness: Work to do on pass defense.
Players to watch: Juan Barajas, Sr., DE, 5-10, 165; Payden Cerise, Sr., QB, 5-10, 180; Justin Farr, Jr., OL, 6-0, 190; David Foxx, Jr., OL, 5-10, 180; Dakota Jewell, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 200; Cody Kanz, Jr., OL, 6-2, 230; David Laird, Sr., LB, 6-0, 170; Tommy Laird, Jr., OL, 5-6, 170; Cody Marcotte, Jr., TE, 6-5, 200; Shane Tourney, Sr., DE, 6-0, 180.
In 2007: The running game looked solid during the Bruins’ preseason scrimmage. The offensive line has some decent size and strength.
COAL RIDGE TITANS
Coach: Jim Hoffman.
2006 record: 0-9.
Returning starters: 11 offense, 11 defense.
Last playoff appearance: None.
Strength: Improvement of offensive line.
Weakness: With only two seniors, this program is just beginning to take shape.
Players to watch: Josh Alsop, Jr., RB-LB, 5-8, 160; David Anderson, Jr. RB-DB 5-8, 155; Bradey Gasaway Jr., RB-LB, 5-10, 170; Alex Kline, Jr., TE-DB, 6-6, 190 ; Kevin Laidlaw, Jr., OL-DL, 6-2, 190; Evan Wagstrom, Jr., OL-DL, 6-2, 215.
In 2007: The talk is about competition, rather than wins and losses. Coal Ridge is playing its second varsity season. The junior and sophomore classes have shown potential.
GUNNISON COWBOYS
Coach: Dennis Fraser.
2006 record: 7-3.
Returning starters: Two offense, three defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 34-21 to Holy Family in first round.
Strength: Skill positions are in good shape.
Weakness: Holes to fill on the lines.
Players to watch: Kip Hefftner, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 185; Cameron Nicholl, Sr., QB-S, 5-10, 165; Mike Ochs, Sr., WR, 5-9, 150; Scott Redden, Sr., OL, 6-1, 215.
In 2007: The biggest challenge will be adjusting to a new coaching staff – the head coach also is the school’s athletic director – and new schemes on both sides of the ball.
HOTCHKISS BULLDOGS
Coach: Zach Lemon.
2006 record: 4-5.
Coach Lemon was unavailable for comment.
OLATHE PIRATES
Coach: Ryan Corn.
2006 record: 8-2.
Returning starters: Five offense, four defense.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 43-13 to Brush in preliminaries.
Strength: Running backs and secondary.
Weakness: Pirates are replacing four of five offensive linemen and most of the defense’s front seven.
Players to watch: Wes Byers, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 160; Curtis Noel, Sr., RB-DB, 5-7, 180; David Rhodes, Jr., RB-LB, 5-8, 212; Jesus Saurez, Sr., RB-SS-K, 5-8, 155; Shane Suppes, Sr., G-LB, 5-10, 185.
In 2007: It’s fairly simple for the Pirates – if they develope an offensive line, they could rock again. If they don’t, they’re in trouble.
ROARING FORK RAMS
Coach: Mike Brinson.
2006 record: 8-2.
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 26-7 to Trinidad in first round.
Coach Brinson was unavailable for comment.
