North Central
AKRON RAMS
Coach: Brian Christensen
2006 record: 13-0
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, won the 1A title 27-0 over Lyons
Strength: A bevy of experienced, returning starters who know how to win.
Weakness: Even Akron suffers from a lack of depth.
Players to watch: Jorgen Anderson, Sr., RB-S, 6-0, 160; Trent Campbell, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 190; Chris Gebauer, Sr., NT, 5-6, 140; Duncan Krause, Sr., TE-DE, 6-0, 165; Joe McKay, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 190; Mick Strand, Sr., OL-ILB, 6-1, 220; Benj Vigil, Jr., LB, 5-11, 170.
In 2007: Coming off an undefeated run to the 1A championship, the target is now firmly on Akron’s back. Expect no surprises this season. The Rams just do everything well: block, run, protect the ball.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Yuma, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Middle Park, 7 p.m.
Sept. 15, at Lutheran, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Wray, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Highland, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Holyoke, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Lyons, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Wiggins, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Front Range Christian, 7 p.m.*
FRONT RANGE CHRISTIAN FALCONS
Coach: Steve Seeley
2006 record: 1-8
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: None
Strength: Team unity, with good experience at QB, WR and RB.
Weakness: Will start three sophomores on the lines, none bigger than 205.
Players to watch: David Farrington, Sr., QB-FS, 6-2, 155; Matt Fisher, Sr., WR-CB, 6-1, 155; Cliff Planchard, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 170; Josh Planchard, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 170.
In 2007: The Falcons’ roster will be more quality than quantity. As coach Seeley said, “We’ve got a bunch of Rudy’s on the team.” Now in the seventh year of the program, having moved up from 8-man before last season, the team is still building. But there’s potential here. The goal is to reach three conference wins, then maybe add a surprise.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, Wiggins, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 22, Highland, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Wray, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 6, Lutheran, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 13, Holyoke, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Lyons, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Akron, 7 p.m.*
HIGHLAND HUSKIES
Coach: Todd Matkin
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
Last playoff appearance: 1977
Strength: Solid senior class with high expectations.
Weakness: Still youthful in some skill spots.
Players to watch: Erik Blais, Sr., OT, 6-6, 240; Dylan Dillingham, Jr., G, 6-0, 210; Adrian Frausto, Sr., OG, 6-0, 220; Marcos Garza, Sr., OT, 6-3, 255; Dylan Kildahl, Sr., TE-OLB, 6-4, 240; Austin Kinnison, Sr., RB-WR-NT, 5-9, 240.
In 2007: It’s been 30 years since the Huskies qualified for the playoffs, the longest postseason drought in 1A. But Highland has one of the largest lines in the class (the starting five average 226 pounds). And there’s talent, too. If they can learn to win, as they expect to, the Huskies could be spoilers.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at The Academy, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, University, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Wray, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 22, at Front Range Christian, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Akron, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Wiggins, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 13, at Lutheran, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Holyoke, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Lyons, 7 p.m.*
HOLYOKE DRAGONS
Coach: George Purnell
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2004
Strength: Speedy and skilled at the skill positions.
Weakness: Short on the lines.
Players to watch: Dylan Bradley, Jr., RB, 5-11, 190; Kyle Carper, So., WR, 6-4, 180; Landon Dirks, Sr., FB, 5-11, 175; Levi Garrett, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 235; Mike Hoffner, Sr., SB, 5-11, 170; Gustav Hollnagel, Sr., K, 6-3, 190; Coltin Houghtelling, Jr., OL-DL, 6-3, 265; Mark Mailander, Sr., WR, 5-10, 160; Austin Tharpe, Jr., QB, 6-2, 175.
In 2007: New coach Purnell was principal at Wray last year before moving to Holyoke, so he’s well aware of the football tradition in the northeast corner. The goal is to get the program back to where it was 10 years ago. The current coaching staff includes two Spragues, a Sprague son-in-law and two former coaches from successful years past, each with a vested interest in getting the Dragons back to glory.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Weld Central, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Garden County, Neb., 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Lyons, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Lutheran, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Wiggins, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Akron, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 13, at Front Range Christian, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Highland, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Wray, 7 p.m.*
LUTHERAN LIGHTS
Coach: Joel Brase
2006 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, 27-0 loss to Burlington in preliminary round
Strength: Experienced defensive front and hard-nosed linebackers.
Weakness: Good numbers overall, but lots of sophomores and freshmen.
Players to watch: Jared Hock, Jr., QB, 5-9, 160; John Langewisch, Sr., OT-DE, 6-4, 195; Garret Pelton, Sr., OG-LB, 5-9, 180; Josh Rickey, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 220.
In 2007: The Lights aren’t just looking to survive in the North Central, they want to return to the playoffs. To do so, they’ll run behind an elusive, slash-type quarterback. The key is to get him free with rollouts and bootlegs to create plays.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at Denver Christian, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, Clear Creek, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, Akron, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Holyoke, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 29, Lyons, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 6, at Front Range Christian, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 13, Highland, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Wray, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 27, Wiggins, 1 p.m.*
LYONS LIONS
Coach: John Nichols
2006 record: 11-2
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 27-0 to Akron in the 1A championship
Strength: Great team speed with a defensive nucleus of three returning linemen.
Weakness: Will need sophomores to fill in on the O-line.
Players to watch: Jared Adams, Sr., RB-LB, 6-2, 180; Dylan Braly, Sr., DB, 5-9, 145; Daniel Coffey, Sr., LB, 5-9, 150; Ty Eberhart, Sr., LB, 5-10, 150; Jerod Hirschfeld, Sr., OL-DL, 5-9, 200; Eric Miller, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 180; Ben Reynolds, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 220; Cody Sciro, Sr., QB, 6-0, 160;
In 2007: The Lions lost 13 seniors from their runner-up team. But don’t expect them to dip this season. They have speed, so look for them to play a more wide-open offense and a less brutal, physical one like last year. The hitch for Lyons is to not be one-dimensional. And if it takes care of the ball, a deep playoff run should be well within reach.
Schedule
Aug. 31, West Grand, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Estes Park, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Holyoke, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Wiggins, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at Lutheran, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Wray, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Akron, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Front Range Christian, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Highland, 7 p.m.*
WIGGINS TIGERS
Coach: Mike Gross
2006 record: 1-8
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2001
Strength: A returning core of good players on the lines.
Weakness: Brand new backfield; young at QB and WR.
Players to watch: Lane Blake, Sr., TE, 5-10, 160; Adam Erker, Sr., FB-SS, 6-0, 175; Kyle Pollock, So., G-NG, 6-1, 250; Josh Richardson, SR., RB-LB, 6-0, 170.
In 2007: The Tigers showed potential in the preseason, with scrimmages against Yuma, Burlington and Fort Morgan. But the young players that dominate the roster will need to come along – and quickly. The experienced line will be called on the pull with speed in the Tigers’ option attack.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Limon, 7 p.m.
Sept. 8, at Byers, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, at Front Range Chtristian, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Lyons, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Holyoke, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Highland, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Wray, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Akron, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 27, at Lutheran, 1 p.m.*
WRAY EAGLES
Coach: Levi Kramer
2006 record: 7-4
Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 21-14 to Burlington in quarterfinals
Strength: One of the best QBs in the state with a solid line in front.
Weakness: A three-WR set took a hit when three starting WRs graduated last year.
Players to watch: Paul Campfield, Jr., LT-ILB, 5-11, 205; Jeremy Lund, Jr., G-DE, 6-3, 265; Jared Oestman, Sr., T-DE, 6-0, 190; Aaron Orr, Sr., QB-S, 6-2, 180; Ben Reinick, Jr., TE-OLB, 6-2, 185.
In 2007: Wray got a scare when Orr injured his shoulder in preseason practice. But he was cleared to play this week, to the relief of Wray fans. Expectations are high, like they were earlier this decade when Wray was a 1A finalist. They have experience in the right spots and the size and speed to make a run.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Burlington, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Yuma, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Highland, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Akron, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Front Range Christian, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Lyons, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Wiggins, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Lutheran, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Holyoke, 7 p.m.*
Santa Fe
CROWLEY COUNTY CHARGERS
Coach: Randy Reeves
2006 record: 1-8
Last playoff appearance: 2004
In 2007: The Chargers’ season outlook is coming soon.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Peyton, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Calhan, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, John Mall, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Las Animas, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Rye, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 13, at Custer County, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Lamar, 7 p.m.
Oct. 26, Center, 7 p.m.
CUSTER COUNTY BOBCATS
Coach: Bruce May
2006 record: 7-3
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 27-6 to Byers in the preliminary round
Strength: Good corps of skill players, including strong QB and an experienced backfield.
Weakness: Depth on the lines.
Players to watch: Cory Barnes, Jr., RB-CB, 6-0, 180; Rusty Caldwell, Sr., FB-OLB, 5-9, 160; Kyle Lewsader, Sr., WR-CB, 6-1, 150; Ryan Reno, Sr., RB-OLB, 5-8, 140; Jeb Stoltzfus, Sr., OG-DT, 6-0, 210; Fred White, Sr., QB, 6-0, 170.
In 2007: With punter Rusty Caldwell, the Bobcats scored six safeties last season after pinning opponents deep. That should be an advantage again. Custer County has another shot at a league title and the goal this time is the second round of the playoffs.
Schedule
Sept. 1, South Park, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, at Del Norte, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, Sargent, 1 p.m.
Sept. 22, Dolores Huerta, 1 p.m.
Sept. 29, Las Animas, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at John Mall, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 13, Crowley County, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Rye, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.*
JOHN MALL PANTHERS
Coach: Greg Romine
2006 record: 3-5
Last playoff appearance: 2000
In 2007: John Mall’s season outlook is coming soon.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Sargent, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Crowley County, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Rye, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Custer County, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Las Animas, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.*
LAS ANIMAS TROJANS
Coach: James Lopez
2006 record: 0-9
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2004
Strength: Can’t go anywhere but up with a tight group of players.
Weakness: Green, freshman quarterback.
Players to watch: T.J. Carter, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 180; Tyler Hanks, Sr., OL-LB, 6-1, 200; Colt Miller, Sr., TB-MLB, 6-2, 220; Wick Turner, Jr., OL-LB, 6-2, 230.
In 2007: The Trojans will rebuild again this season, with just 16 on the roster to start the season. But they’re disciplined and ready to go under Lopez, now in his second year with the team. A zero week win over Cripple Creek-Victor was exactly how Las Animas needed to start.
Schedule
Aug. 25, at Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.
Sept. 1, Sanford, 1 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Sargent, 7 p.m.
Sept. 21, Crowley County, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at Custer County, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, John Mall, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Del Norte, 7 p.m.
Oct. 26, Rye, 7 p.m.*
ROCKY FORD MELONEERS
Coach: Eric McCrae
2006 record: 6-4
Returning starters: Five offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 55-0 to Akron in preliminary round
Strength: Throw the ball well on offense, chase well on defense.
Weakness: Will start lots of sophomores.
Players to watch: Lane Abert, Sr., QB, 6-1, 165; Colby Ridennoure, Jr., TE, 6-2, 170; Randy Rivera, Sr., OL, 5-9, 150.
In 2007: The Meloneers have qualified for the postseason in three consecutive years. Again, it will be important to win the Santa Fe League and earn home field advantage in the first round. This season, Rocky Ford will throw more than coach McCrae likes, but the personnel dictates such. A non-league game at Limon in Week 2 should toughen the team.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Calhan, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Limon, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Dolores Huerta, 1 p.m.
Sept. 22, at Ellicott, 1 p.m.
Sept. 28, at Crowley County, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Las Animas, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Rye, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at John Mall, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Custer County, 7 p.m.*
RYE THUNDERBOLTS
Coach: Jeff Bailey
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: A talented group, with strong junior and sophomore classes.
Weakness: Just two seniors; immature physically.
Players to watch: Mark Elliott, Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 220; Chris Lewis, So., OL-DL, 6-1, 225; Matt Minjarez, Jr., QB-DB, 5-9, 135; Kenny Peterson, Jr., FB-MLB, 6-0, 220; Jake Van, So., RB-DB, 5-8, 130; Luke Van, So., RB-DB, 5-8, 130.
In 2007: Rye will have a roster twice as big as some other 1A schools, going 39 deep in the preseason. Only two or three players will play both ways, a rarity in the class. So the Thunderbolts are hoping to squeeze some extra productivity out of their lineup. A league title is in reach. But a monster nonleague schedule greets the team early, with games against Del Norte, Centauri and – egads! – Platte Canyon and Faith Christian, both Top 10 teams in Class 2A.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Del Norte, 7 p.m.
Sept. 8, at Platte Canyon, 1 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Faith Christian, 7 p.m.
Sept. 21, Centauri, 7 p.m.
Sept. 28, at John Mall, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Crowley County, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Custer County, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Las Animas, 7 p.m.*
South Central
BURLINGTON COUGARS
Coach: Glynn Higgs
2006 record: 10-2
Returning starters: Five offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 40-21 to Akron in semifinals
Strength: Strong defensively, with good size; very physical.
Weakness: Still piecing together an offensive line.
Players to watch: Michael Allacher, Jr., OL, 6-6, 290; Nat David, Sr., WR-CB-Ret., 5-8, 150; Collin Medley, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 155; Nick Rinehart, Jr., OL-DL, 6-4, 215.
In 2007: The Cougars may have lost Brian Hendricks, 1A’s best running back last season, to graduation. But they return a large offensive line. The D-line, too, is no slouch and they get to the ball well. Burlington likely will rotate running backs this season and a sophomore is penciled in at quarterback. But this team may have the best shot at knocking off Akron.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Wray, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Lamar, 7 p.m.
Sept. 15, at South Park, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Peyton, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Limon, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Calhan, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Cripple Creek-Victor, 6 p.m.*
Oct. 20, at Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Byers, 7 p.m.*
BYERS BULLDOGS
Coach: David Dodge
2006 record: 7-4
Returning starters: Eight offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 27-7 to Akron in quarterfinals
Strength: Great senior class that has been building since the seventh grade.
Weakness: Will start an inexperienced QB.
Players to watch: Taylor Imber, Sr., OL-DL, 6-3, 260; Ben Lloyd, Sr., RB, 5-11, 165; James Maes, Sr., RB, 5-9, 165; Kasey Martin, Sr., OL-DL, 6-3, 245; Eric Steitz, Sr., WR, 5-11, 160; Steven Turecek, Sr., TE-LB, 6-0, 200; Bronson Wilborn, Sr., OL-DL; 5-11, 200.
In 2007: The Bulldogs return most of their skill players from last season, save for the quarterback. The QB spot is still to be decided, with a battle between a sophomore and a freshman. But whoever it is should do well surrounded by Byers’ experience and talent at WR and RB. This senior class is Byers’ biggest in recent memory, one that has had Bulldogs fans waiting eagerly for this season.
Schedule
Sept. 1, Bennett, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, Wiggins, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 22, at Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at Calhan, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Peyton, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 13, at South Park, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 20, Limon, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Burlington, 7 p.m.*
CALHAN BULLDOGS
Coach: Rob Lessig
2006 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: Run the ball well behind some good linemen.
Weakness: Overall inexperience.
Players to watch: Jeff Cooper, Jr., RB-LB, 6-1, 195; Allen Jones, Sr., OT-DT, 5-10, 265; Cory Ronas, Sr., RB-OLB, 5-10, 175; John Wall, Sr., FB-OLB, 5-10, 165.
In 2007: The Bulldogs can either pick up momentum early and get rolling through a tough conference schedule or things could go sour quick. There’s a thin line here between a 6-3 season and a 2-7 outcome. They’ve changed offensive schemes from a double-wing attack to a single-wing. And behind the few returning starters, positions are filled with inexperience.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Crowley County, 7 p.m.
Sept. 15, at Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 22, at Cripple Creek-Victor, 2 p.m.*
Sept. 29, Byers, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Burlington, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Peyton, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, South Park, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Limon, 7 p.m.*
CRIPPLE CREEK-VICTOR PIONEERS
Coach: Dale Dubbs
2006 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Last playoff appearance: 1991
Strength: Numbers are way up.
Weakness: Still young and inexperienced
Players to watch: Ryan Bowman, Jr., FB-SS, 5-9, 175; Chase Hern, Sr., TE-K, 6-1, 195; Taylor Morgan, Sr., RB-FS, 6-3, 195; Matt Vial, Sr., C-T, 5-10, 225.
In 2007: With roster of 32 players, just three are seniors and two are juniors, so inexperience rules at CCV. As the season progresses, those young players will be called on to learn quickly. And if the Pioneers can keep their heads above water, they should be respectable in the South Central Conference.
Schedule
Aug. 25, Las Animas, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, at Front Range Christian, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, at Byers, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 22, Calhan, 2 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 6, Limon, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Burlington, 6 p.m.*
Oct. 20, Peyton, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 27, South Park, 1 p.m.*
LIMON BADGERS
Coach: Mike O’Dwyer
2006 record: 11-1
Returning starters: Four offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 21-16 to Lyons in the quarterfinals
Strength: Team speed will be their biggest advantage.
Weakness: Depth on the lines.
Players to watch: Isaac Ashcraft, Sr., FB-MLB, 5-10, 185; Matt Brown, So., QB, 6-2, 180; Kirk Pottorff, Sr., WR, 6-4, 175; Weston Purdy, Sr., OL-DL, 6-4, 225; Zach Scherrer, Sr., TB, 6-1, 180; Joe Stone, Sr., WR, 6-3, 190; Terrance Trujillo, Sr., LT-DL, 6-2, 175.
In 2007: Numbers are down some in Limon and the personnel shortage will force an offensive change. Where they were 65 percent run, 35 percent pass in recent seasons, the Badgers’ ratio will be more like 50-50 this season. But this is the tallest team coach O’Dwyer has seen, so the increase in passing could be an advantage. As always, the Badgers are athletic and they might win games in the skill spots on pure hustle. They’ve fallen some from the past three seasons, but are still an elite team in 1A.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Wiggins, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Rocky Ford, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Peyton, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 22, South Park, 2 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Burlington, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 6, at Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Miami-Yoder, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 20, at Byers, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Calhan, 7 p.m.*
MIAMI-YODER BUFFALOES
Coach: Don McGatlin
2006 record: 2-7
Returning starters: Four offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2002
Strength: Great speed with the backs and receivers.
Weakness: Small on the lines.
Players to watch: Kyle Chariott, Sr., OG-DE, 6-2, 165; Jeremy Dole, Jr., FB, 5-10, 165; Brian Hall, Sr., QB, 5-11, 175; Michael Karl, Jr., RB-FS, 5-10, 145; Shane Reed, So., OL-DL, 5-8, 165.
In 2007: There were 18 eligible players on the preseason roster. And the Buffaloes are coming off a two-win season. Yet excitement is high after the arrival of new coach McGatlin from Jefferson County. There’s a toughness in the ranks at Miami-Yoder that few other schools can boast. If the starters stay healthy and the backfield lives up to potential, the Buffs could spoil South Central predictions in a hurry.
Schedule
Sept. 1, Front Range Christian, 1 p.m.
Sept. 7, at The Classical Academy, 3 p.m.
Sept. 15, Calhan, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 22, Byers, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 29, Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 6, at South Park, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Limon, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 20, Burlington, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 27, Peyton, 1 p.m.*
PEYTON PANTHERS
Coach: Matt McIntyre
2006 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2000
Strength: Will throw a bunch behind a talented quarterback.
Weakness: Really thin on the roster.
Players to watch: Kris Beltz, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 240; Ryan Borchardt, Sr., FB, 5-11, 190; Brett Green, Jr., QB, 6-1, 180; Andrew Greene, Sr., TB, 5-9, 175.
In 2007: The Panthers should be in the mix in the South Central with a multiple-set spread offense. They have their work cut out and they need fortune to smile some, sure. But Peyton could be dangerous with a quarterback who stays strong in the pocket and can throw a clean ball. New old coach McIntyre is no stranger to Peyton. He was coaching in 2000 when the Panthers went 9-2 and made their most recent playoff appearance.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Crowley County, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Sheridan, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Limon, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Burlington, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at South Park, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Byers, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Calhan, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 20, at Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 27, at Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.*
SOUTH PARK BURROS
Coach: David Patrick
2006 record: 0-9
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
Last playoff appearance: 2001
Strength: Speed on defense.
Weakness: Young team, with nine freshmen.
Players to watch: Tyler Blair, Sr., QB, 6-0, 185; Nate Gillespie, Sr., OL-DL, 5-9, 240; Jacob Reese, Jr., HB-CB, 5-10, 165; Bryan Ruddle, Jr., HB-CB, 5-10, 170.
In 2007: Now in the second season of Coach Patrick’s tenure, the Burros are starting to understand the game more. The goal is to score more points than last year when they put up 38 points for an average of 4.2 per game. Of the 17 players on the roster, nine are freshman – a good news-bad news proposition. Good news for the future, yes. But the Burros will be young this season and may take their lumps. Already through the preseason, South Park looked crisp and much improved.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at Custer County, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, West Grand, 1 p.m.
Sept. 15, Burlington, 1 p.m.*
Sept. 22, at Limon, 2 p.m.*
Sept. 29, Peyton, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 6, Miami-Yoder, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 13, Byers, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Calhan, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 27, at Cripple Creek-Victor, 1 p.m.*
Southern Peaks
CENTER VIKINGS
Coach: Ben Kern
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2004
Strength: Some seniors starting for the fourth year
Weakness: Filling spots with young players and first-year seniors
Players to watch: Carlos Lopez, Sr., WR-DL, 5-10, 190; Eric Martinez, Jr., TB-S, 5-9, 160; Joey Montoya, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 200; Louis Vasquez, Jr., WR-LB, 6-0, 180; Adam Welsh, Sr., QB, 5-8, 160.
In 2007: One of four teams in the seven-team Southern Peaks Conference with a new head coach, the Vikings will have a different look and a new outlook. They’ll pass the ball more, to be certain. And with a group of solid seniors that know how to win (they qualified for the semifinals in as starting freshman in ’03). Footnote: New coach Kern and Del Norte’s new head, Richie Madrid, were teammates in high school at Sargent. Small world.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at Plateau Valley, 1 p.m.
Sept. 7, John Mall, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Del Norte, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Dolores, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Sanford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Mancos, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Ignacio, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Sargent, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Crowley County, 7 p.m.
DEL NORTE TIGERS
Coach: Richie Madrid
2006 record: 9-2
Returning starters: Two offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 20-3 to Lyons in quarterfinals
Strength: A quick, smart backfield and D-line
Weakness: Very little varsity experience
Players to watch: Erickson Beard, So., FB-DL, 5-9, 170; Lance Martinez, Jr., RB-SS, 6-0, 160; Tyler Rue, Sr., C-LB, 6-0, 180; Beau Warman, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 260.
In 2007: The Tigers are perhaps the team hardest hit by graduation in 1A. Just three starters return. So the new, young players need to grow up quick for Del Norte to have a chance. But, know this, new coach Mardrid said: This is not a rebuilding year, so much as a reloading year. The seniors have been in the playoffs each year since they were freshmen, so there’s a tradition of winning that could guide the young team there again.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Rye, 7 p.m.
Sept. 8, Custer County, 1 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Center, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Ignacio, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, Mancos, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Sanford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 13, Dolores, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Las Animas, 7 p.m.
Oct. 27, Sargent, 1 p.m.*
DOLORES BEARS
Coach: Don Story
2006 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: Fastest backfield at Dolores in recent memory
Weakness: Young backups on the lines
Players to watch: Tyler Barry, Jr., RB-CB, 5-7, 150; Lane Gallaher, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 185; Josh Galloway, Sr., QB, 5-11, 165; Kenny Joseph, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 185; Logan Riffey, Sr., FB-P, 6-0, 205; Drake Smith, Sr., WR-LB, 5-8, 145; Damon Valdez, Jr., RB-WR, 5-8, 165; Terrell Wells, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 210.
In 2007: A double overtime loss at Sanford last season kept the Bears from the postseason, their first missed playoffs in five years. Don’t expect the same outcome this season. Last season, injuries hurt. This year, Dolores is the league frontrunner with 10 starting seniors returning. Plus, they have a shifty running back in Barry, for whom 200-yard games aren’t rare.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Bayfield, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Cedaredge, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Ignacio, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Center, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, Hayden, 1 p.m.
Oct. 5, at Sargent, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 13, at Del Norte, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Mancos, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 27, Sanford, 1 p.m.*
IGNACIO BOBCATS
Coach: Lupe Huerta
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 1992
Strength: The biggest squad they’ve seen in years
Weakness: Lost eight seniors to graduation, mostly from the skill spots
Players to watch: Trevor Dean, So., QB, 6-2, 180; Oakley Hayes, So., WR, 5-9, 140; Raudel Lucero, Jr., TB, 5-10, 150; Tim Velasquez, Sr., WR, 6-2, 180.
In 2007: The Bobcats ended up in the middle of the pack last season. This time, they expect to improve. They need to improve, for sure. But a revamped, spread offense behind an athletic quarterback, offers promise. Plus, Ignacio has size, which could prove valuable late in the season if they stay in shape.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Gunnison, 3:30 p.m.
Sept. 8, Bayfield, 1 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Dolores, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Del Norte, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Sargent, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Shiprock, N.M., 7 p.m.
Oct. 12, at Center, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Sanford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Mancos, 7 p.m.*
MANCOS BLUEJAYS
Coach: Alan Mathews
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Last playoff appearance: 2002
Strength: Big, physical players in a solid running game
Weakness: They’ll start three freshmen
Players to watch: Kody Clark, Sr., TE-LB, 6-0, 180; Brandon Jennings, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 220; Matt Rosso, Sr., QB-LB, 6-0, 160; Jake Thurman, Sr., OG-LB.
In 2007: New coach Mathews has been the track coach at Mancos the past six years. And he played football for the Bluejays before graduating in ’98. He arrived as coach at a good time. There were 31 players on the preseason roster, five more than last year, including 13 freshmen. The future looks bright. The offensive style this season will by Air Force-esque, a veer option with multiple sets and some short passes.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at Durango JV, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Monticello, Utah, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Sanford, 7 p.m.
Sept. 21, Sargent, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at Del Norte, 1 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Center, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 11, at Bloomfield, N.M. JV, 7 p.m.
Oct. 19, Dolores, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Ignacio, 7 p.m.*
SANFORD INDIANS
Coach: Cody Reynolds
2006 record: 6-4
Returning starters:
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 24-13 to Limon in preliminary round
In 2007: Sanford’s season outlook is coming soon.
Schedule
Sept. 1, at Las Animas, 1 p.m.
Sept. 8, Centauri, 1 p.m.
Sept. 21, TBA, 7 p.m.
Sept. 28, at Center, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Del Norte, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Sargent, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Ignacio, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 27, at Dolores, 1 p.m.*
SARGENT FARMERS
Coach: Terry VanBibber
2006 record: 8-2
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 14-0 to Hayden in preliminary round
In 2007: Sargent’s season outlook is coming soon.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at John Mall, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Las Animas, 7 p.m.
Sept. 15, at Custer County, 1 p.m.
Sept. 21, at Mancos, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Ignacio, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Dolores, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Sanford, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Center, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 27, at Del Norte, 1 p.m.*
Western Slope
GRAND VALLEY CARDINALS
Coach: Mike Johnson
2006 record: 8-2
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 18-7 to Wray in preliminary round
Strength: Lots of physical athletes, with team speed
Weakness: A QB battle between two inexperienced players
Players to watch: Colton Cowan, Jr., TB-LB, 6-1, 190; Tyler Jensen, Sr., WR-DB, 6-3, 185; Cole Kraft, Jr., OL-LB, 5-10, 205; Cody Miles, Sr., OL-LB, 5-9, 165; William Waugh, Jr., RB-LB, 5-9, 185.
In 2007: Four of five starting lineman return from last season and the entire linebacking corps comes back. And, as illustrated by Grand Valley’s state basketball title, state baseball tournament appearance and it’s strong showing in track, the school has athletes. This should well on the football team, too. The JV team went undefeated last season. And the Cardinals are about to jump to 2A (the preseason roster went 50 deep). So this could be their year to make waves. Expect them in the postseason again.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Aspen, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Basalt, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Rangely, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Meeker, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, West Grand, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Paonia, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Hayden, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Soroco, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 25, at Rifle, 7 p.m.
HAYDEN TIGERS
Coach: Shawn Baumgartner
2006 record: 9-2
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 21-0 to Limon in quarterfinals
Strength: Lost just one player from its lines after last season
Weakness: Need to get more physical and improve the passing game
Players to watch: Mitchell Doolin, Jr., QB, 5-8, 160; Adam Haskins, Sr., TE-DE, 6-3, 190; Coy Letlow, Jr., RB-LB, 5-11, 185; Garrett Murchison, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 180; Russell Waugh, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 185.
In 2007: The Tigers may have sneaked up on some teams last year flying under the radar. But that role will reverse this season. Hayden has an 1,800-plus running back returning in Letlow. And junior QB Doolin cut his teeth with a solid sophomore year in ’06. So the pieces are in place. The onus is now on Hayden to prove they belong in the later rounds of the playoffs.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Coal Ridge, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, at West Grand, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 21, Paonia, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 29, at Dolores, 1 p.m.
Oct. 5, Soroco, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Grand Valley, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Rangely, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Meeker, 7 p.m.*
MEEKER COWBOYS
Coach: Shane Phelan
2006 record: 6-4
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 28-6 to Lyons in the preliminary round
Strength: Lack many bad habits and have a great team GPA
Weakness: Very young, lots of junior and sophomore varsity first-timers
Players to watch: Tyler Howey, Sr., TE-LB, 6-0, 200; Tyler Matrisciano, Jr., QB-DB, 5-8, 160; Bubba Mazzola, Jr., RB-LB, 5-11, 180; Marc Schultz, Sr., OL-LB, 6-0, 160.
In 2007: The Cowboys have a large learning curve ahead of them, with a young team. But with some small, positive steps, they could be contenders. Meeker opens with 2A Basalt and Olathe, good tests to start the season. It feasibly could work out that Meeker needs one more win in the final week to return to the playoffs. Unfortunately, that game is against league favorite Hayden on Oct. 26.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Basalt, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Soroco, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Grand Valley, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Rangely, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, West Grand, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Paonia, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Hayden, 7 p.m.*
PAONIA EAGLES
Coach: Jeremy McCormick
2006 record: 7-3
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 14-6 to Del Norte in preliminary round
Strength: Senior leadership and defensive intensity
Weakness: Replacing most of the skill position players from last season
Players to watch: Ryan Bradley, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 190; Devon Brown, Sr., FB-LB, 5-10, 180; John Hinton, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 270; Rueben Mendoza, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 160; Danny Straub, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 150.
In 2007: Paonia’s goal this season is much like last year: Qualify for the playoffs and hope for some bounces. The end of last season left a bitter taste with the Eagles, after a close loss to Del Norte in the prelims. The Western Slope is a tough league. More teams have a shot than there are playoff spots available. Where that leaves Paonia is to be determined.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Cedaredge, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, Hotchkiss, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Fruita Monument, 7 p.m.
Sept. 21, at Hayden, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, Soroco, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, Grand Valley, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, Rangely, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Meeker, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at West Grand, 7 p.m.*
RANGELY PANTHERS
Coach: Mark Jansen
2006 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strength: Defense will stand out; good strong RB
Weakness: Young team will rely on rookies
Players to watch: Stephen Boleng, Sr., WR-DB, 5-11, 150; Hastin Bolger, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 200; Nick Halcomb, Sr., OG-DL, 6-1, 160; Mark Hinaman, Sr., OL-LB, 6-0, 170; Tim Willis, Sr., RB-DB, 5-9, 160.
In 2007: The Panthers have athletes. And a few quirks here and there last season could have turned a 3-6 year into a winning record and a playoff berth. As it is, Rangely still lacks a winning spirit. The young players need to learn what it means to win. But if they grow up quick and pull off an upset, things could look up.
Schedule
Aug. 31, Olathe, 7 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Coal Ridge, 7 p.m.
Sept. 14, Grand Valley, 7 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Meeker, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, West Grand, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Paonia, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Hayden, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, at Soroco, 7 p.m.*
SOROCO RAMS
Coach: David Bruner
2006 record: 1-7
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strength: Young kids, ready to roll, worked hard in the summer weight room
Weakness: Lacking game time experience
Players to watch: Alex Estes, So., RB-S, 5-8, 160; Justin Iacovetto, Jr., RB-LB, 5-4, 140; Cody Miles, So., QB-LB, 6-2, 190; Dennis Morgan, Sr., FB-LB, 5-8, 210; J.D. Walorski, Sr., OL-DE, 6-1, 190.
In 2007: The Rams lost 11 seniors from last season. As a result, teams might not be giving them much credit. Last season, Soroco was stout on defense but had trouble scoring. This season, Soroco will again live by its defense. On offense, it will try to run a spread option attack and throw the ball a bunch.
Schedule
Sep. 1, Glenwood Springs, 1 p.m.
Sept. 7, at Saratoga, Wyo., 4 p.m.
Sept. 14, at Meeker, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 21, West Grand, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Paonia, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Hayden, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 19, Grand Valley, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 26, Rangely, 7 p.m.*
WEST GRAND MUSTANGS
Coach: Chris Brown
2006 record: 3-6
Last playoff appearance: 2005
In 2007: West Grand’s ’07 season outlook is coming soon.
Schedule
Aug. 31, at Lyons, 7 p.m.
Sep. 8, at South Park, 1 p.m.
Sept. 14, Hayden, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 21, at Soroco, 7:30 p.m.*
Sept. 28, at Grand Valley, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 5, at Rangely, 7 p.m.*
Oct. 12, at Meeker, 7:30 p.m.*
Oct. 19, at Buena Vista, 7 p.m.
Oct. 26, Paonia, 7 p.m.*
