Colorado Conference
BENNETT TIGERS
Coach: Rick Jacoby
2007 record: 5-4
Returning starters: Four offense, six defense
Strength: Fast, deep backfield
Weakness: Young in the trenches
Players to watch: Tyler Brown, Sr., WR, 6-0, 180; Elliot Copeland, So., MLB-FB, 5-10, 165; Tyler Cumley, Jr., FB-LB, 5-10, 165; Bryson Jordan, Sr., RB, 6-1, 190; Levi Rodriquez, Jr., TE-DE, 6-3, 195; Matt Scherer, Sr., DE-OT, 6-1, 213.
In 2008: Jacoby takes over and brings a multi-set offense that will run three receivers and one to three guys in the backfield. Not big up front, so the idea is to scheme defenses out of the box by moving them around. They have young size that needs reps.
THE CLASSICAL ACADEMY TITANS
Coach: Nate Sassaman
2007 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Four offense, six defense
Never qualified?
Strength: Balanced offensive attack
Weakness: Youth all over
Players to watch: Zac Blaha, Jr., TE-DE, 6-1, 200; Charlie Countess, Sr., LB, 5-9, 185; Josh Culver, Sr., OL-DL, 6-3, 240; Jordan Cyphers, Jr., RB-SS, 5-11, 185; Matt Gackle, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 220; D.J. Garcia, Jr., WR-FS, 5-11, 170; Jared Goad, Jr., OL-DL, 5-10, 221.
In 2008: The Titans broke a long losing streak and beat a conference foe last season to avoid the cellar. Still rebuilding, but the four senior starters and rest of the group are going in the right direction. Defense takes five off the line to go with 3-4 and 3-5 looks.
CLEAR CREEK GOLDDIGGERS
Coach: Tony Villani
2007 record: 4-5
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Strength: Strong receivers
Weakness: Inexperience, lack of depth on offensive line
Players to watch: Chris Ball, Sr., QB-P, 5-11, 175; Jeff Farris, Sr., WR-DB, 6-1, 180; Tyler Gunderson, Sr., OL-DT, 6-1, 220; Steven O’Malley, RB-MLB, 5-9, 185; Josh Ramirez, Jr., TE, 5-11, 175; Adam White, Sr., OL-DL, 6-3, 245.
In 2008: Strong receivers mean some four- and five-wide sets, but the inside zone running game will remain a staple. Ball is a strong and versatile QB with two returning starters in front of him on the line. Getting to over .500 hump would be solid progress.
DENVER CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS
Coach: Mark Swalley
2007 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
Strength: Size and experience on line
Weakness: Lack of depth all over
Players to watch: C.J. Caro, Sr., RB-LB, 6-0, 200; Sam Lee, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 220; Matt Newton, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 215; Marcus Pippins, Jr., QB-DB, 5-7, 145; Jacob Pursell, Jr., RB-DB, 5-11, 150.
In 2008: If the Crusaders can keep their core group of about 13 healthy, they’ll be in the mix. A little more athletic than last year; a little more upbeat. Sprint outs and bootlegs will be key to getting shorter quarterback out on the edge.
KENT DENVER SUN DEVILS
Coach: Scott Yates
2007 record: 6-4
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense
2007, lost 22-7 to Erie in 2A preliminaries
Strength: Running backs, tight end
Weakness: Inexperience at quarterback; secondary
Players to watch: Cody Autterson, Jr., TE-DE, 6-3, 210; Kendall Early, Sr., WR-DB-KR, 5-9, 160; Tyler Jackson, Jr., RB, 6-0, 185; John Lantz, Sr., OL, 6-1, 180; Chase Martin, Sr., OL, 6-0, 190; Patrick Murray, Sr., RB-LB, 6-1, 218; Keegan Slattery, Sr., C, 5-10, 185; Brent Zaterman, Sr., OL, 5-11, 175.
In 2008: The Sun Devils will be able to pound it with Murray and Jackson and hit the occasional home run with Early. Depth isn’t great and the chemistry between young quarterback and receivers will be key to a clicking offense.
PLATTE CANYON HUSKIES
Coach: Mike Schmidt
2007 record: 10-3, lost 21-7 to Platte Valley in 2A championship game
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
Strength: Team speed; skill players
Weakness: Depth; inexperienced secondary
Players to watch: Dom Augustine, Sr., TE-DE, 6-4, 195; Shelby Edwards, Sr., OG-DE, 5-11, 170; A.J. Melillo, Sr., RB-DB, 5-11, 170; Michael Pollick, Sr., DT, 6-1, 230; Sam Prentner, Sr., TE-DE, 6-3 190; Dillon Whisman, RB-LB, Sr., 6-0, 205.
In 2008: Fresh off an eye-opening run to the 2A title game, the Huskies return with humble numbers. But they do have talent and a core of hard-nosed players that will go both ways and always create problems for teams come playoff time. Line and running backs are solid.
Flatirons Conference
THE ACADEMY WILDCATS
Coach: Seth Replogle
2007 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense
Strength: Solid defense
Weakness: Lack of senior leadership
Players to watch: Landin Caswell, Jr., QB-DB, 6-1, 182; Joe Franco, Jr., RB-LB, 5-8, 189; Anthony Garcia, Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 215; Garylee Padilla, Jr., RB-LB, 5-10, 175; Jon Seidel, Sr., ILB-TE-FB, 6-0, 190; Sean Seubert, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 225.
In 2008: The ‘Cats are heavy in the junior classification (only four seniors), but many of them saw time as freshmen and are seasoned. They’ll run the wishbone offense and be tenacious on defense. Replacing three starters on offensive line weighs heavy.
ERIE TIGERS
Coach: Larry Gartrell
2007 record: 8-3
Returning starters: Seven offense, eight defense
2007, lost 22-18 to Holy Family in 2A quarterfinals
Strength: 15 returning starters, 25 lettermen
Weakness: W: Lack of team speed
Thomas Carpenter, Jr., DL, 6-0, 245; Michael Chambers, Sr., QB, 5-8, 155; Cees Doxsey, Sr., DL, 6-2, 275; Alex Ortega, Jr., RB, 5-9, 165; Dwayne Perry, Sr., LB, 6-2, 200; Cody Smith, Sr., LB, 6-0, 200; Dalton Smith, Sr., DL, 6-2, 235; Adam Wiest, Sr., LB, 5-10, 165.
FAITH CHRISTIAN EAGLES
Coach: Blair Hubbard
2007 record: 10-1
Returning starters: Two offense, two defense
Strength: Offensive and defensive line
Weakness: New offensive and defensive backfields
Players to watch: Micah Applegate, Jr., OL-DL, 6-1, 245; Noah Applegate, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 210; Robert Bray, Sr., TE-DE, 6-3, 205; Nathan Hood, Sr., OL-DL, 6-3, 245; Craig Schultz, Sr., RB-DB, 5-7, 155.
In 2008: The line will be the controlling factor for the Eagles, as will the passing game. Line can dictate, but QB must hit enough targets to keep defenses honest and open up the play-action. Lots of new faces but same old tradition.
MIDDLE PARK PANTHERS
Coach: Marc Loberg
2007 record: 2-7
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
Strength: Experience and depth
Weakness: Offensive line chemistry
Players to watch: Zane Bickler, Sr., OLB-RB, 6-2, 195; Jordan Reynolds, Jr., WR-QB-FS, 6-4, 175; Mike Schmidt, Sr., QB-FB-MLB, 6-1, 205; Mitch Sprague, Sr., C-NT, 5-11, 185.
In 2008: With dual threats Schmidt and Reynolds, the Panthers will hammer their usual running game and pass some out of the shotgun and try to open things up a little more. Defense goes 3-5 formation and has set a goal to cut the points it allowed in 2007 in half.
THE PINNACLE TIMBERWOLVES
Coach: Eric Hahn
2007 record: First-year varsity program
Returning starters: N/A
Strength: Excitement of first-year program
Weakness: Inexperience all over
Players to watch: Justin Akes, Fr., QB, 6-0, 150; Steven Baca, Jr., LB-OG, 5-10, 260; Derrick Garcia, Jr., MLB-WR, 6-1, 215; Frank Hull, Sr., G-NT, 6-0, 320; Josh Medina, Sr., RB-SS, 5-9, 160.
They’ve talked about getting football and now it’s here. Some kids played varsity at other schools last year. Looking to compete and expecting to win some games, even with just three seniors. Will run a spread-option offense and a 4-3 defense.
Mountain Conference
BUENA VISTA DEMONS
Coach: Bob Marken
2007 record: 6-5, lost 30-20 to Platte Canyon in 2A quarterfinals
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
Strength: Running game; good size
Weakness: Replacing three starters on offensive line
Players to watch: Chris Carr, Sr., LB-FB, 6-0, 200; Peter Chambers, Sr., K, 5-9, 150; Mason Finley, Sr., DT-TE, 6-8, 340; Larson Greenfield, Sr., RB, 5-11, 180; Jake Saewert, Sr., LB, 5-11, 195; Corey Trojanovich, Sr., OG-DE, 5-11, 190.
In 2008: The Demons have a strong backfield running behind a green offensive line. They’ll try to keep teams honest with more passing to the tight end. They’ll be tough on defense with two 300-pound tackles and experienced defensive backs.
CENTAURI FALCONS
Coach: Greg Jones
2007 record: 3-6
Returning starters: Four offense, five defense
Strength: Willingness to battle
Weakness: Inexperience at quarterback
Players to watch: Vincent Chacon, Jr., OL-DL, 6-0, 260; Mario Espinoza, Sr., WR-S, 5-8, 130; Ryan Finnegan, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 190.
In 2008: With just five seniors and not a lot of size in the mix, the Falcons are looking for strides in the right direction if they can establish the run. Two young quarterbacks are vying for snaps. Defense is shifting to a 3-5 and will work the angles.
PAGOSA SPRINGS PIRATES
Coach: Sean O’Donnell
2007 record: 6-4, lost 48-0 to Faith Christian in 2A preliminaries
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Strength: Experience, speed at skill positions
Weakness: Inexperience on offensive line
Players to watch: Joe Ducharme, Sr., RB-LB, 5-9, 165; Paul Hoffman, Jr., WR-DB, 5-10, 160; Sackett Ross, Sr., OL-LB, 5-11, 190; Taylor Shaffer, Jr., QB, 6-3, 170; Mike Smith, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 175;
In 2008: The running backs and linebackers will be especially strong, which bodes well. It bodes extremely well if the offensive line can develop its run blocking. Strong passing game will be a pleasant surprise and could be great once Shaffer settles in.
SALIDA SPARTANS
Coach: Phil Gardunio
2007 record: 1-8
Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
Strength: Good team speed
Weakness: Lack of depth all over
Players to watch: Derrik Freda, Sr., MLB-RB, 6-1, 190; Donnie Gocha, So., DB-WR, 5-10, 170; Brett Rankin, Sr., DB-WR, 5-10 155; Bart Schlicher, So., K-FS, 5-11, 160; Zach Short, Sr., QB-K, 6-0, 165; Jacob Weiss, So., OLB, 5-10, 160; John Wallis, Jr., OL-DL, 6-0, 175.
In 2008: Remember the movie “300”? These Spartans have just 24, but they really like their receiving corps and will try to focus on running the ball out of a spread package to open up defenses. The line isn’t huge, but it’s working hard.
Patriot Conference
BRUSH BEETDIGGERS
Coach: Randy Dreitz
2007 record: 6-4
Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 2A opening round to Holy Family
Strength: Senior leadership, experience
Weakness: Inexperience on offensive, defensive line
Players to watch: Tyler Booth, Sr., RB/LB, 5-11, 190; Arturo Maltos-Garcia, Sr., QB/DB, 5-10, 170; Daniel Rubalcaba, Sr., G/DE, 5-10, 190; Isaac Brost, Sr., RB/LB, 5-9, 180; Bradley Bass, Sr., WR/DB, 5-9, 140
In 2008: The Beetdiggers believe they have a good team, but as Coach Dreitz says it’s hard to tell until the team actually straps it up for real in a game. Brush will get that first shot against perennial playoff team Fort Morgan in the opener. The hope is to make a return to the playoffs, but with the likes of Platte Valley, the defending state champion, and Eaton in their conference, the Beetdiggers face a tough task.
EATON REDS
Coach: Bill Mondt
2007 record: 8-4
Returning starters: 5 offense, 5 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 2A semifinals 14-7 in OT to Platte Valley
Strength: Overall speed
Weakness: Inexperience on offensive line
Players to watch: Seth Lobato, Sr., QB, 6-6, 212; Cade Merritt, Sr., WR/S, 6-1, 176; Kyle Lehmann, Sr., MLB, 6-0, 203; Cameron Stewart, Sr., TE, 6-4, 210; Bryce Ruff, Sr., WR, 6-1, 175; Bryce Kammerzell, Jr., FB, 6-0, 190; Zach Asche, Jr., SS, 5-10, 175
In 2008: A year after winning eight games and reaching the state semifinals, the Reds have high expectations, but, then again, as Coach Mondt says, everybody does. Eaton will find out early how good it can be with three tough non-conference games in Holy Family, Platte Canyon and Erie. Mondt isn’t necessarily looking for wins in those games, but he hopes his team will be competitive. That would be the tell-tale sign if his team is ready for Brush, Platte Valley and Strasburg in the Patriot League.
ESTES PARK BOBCATS
Coach: Randy Hinson
2007 record: 1-8
Returning starters: 9 offense, 8 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strength: Experience, strong senior class
Weakness: Lack of success recently, confidence, depth
Players to watch: Jake Eitzen, Sr., RB/DB, 5-7, 145; Blake Hinson, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 260; Zach Miller, Sr., RB/LB, 5-8, 160; Jeremy Audus, Sr., OL/DL, 5-11, 220; Tyler Rashid, Sr., WR/DB, 5-9, 160
In 2008: The season opener against Middle Park was circled on the Bobcats’ schedule since the end of last season. Not so much for the opponent as much as to get off to a good start. Estes Park has struggled in recent years and getting off to a winning start in its non-conference schedule is key, says Coach Hinson, in turning things around. But staying healthy would help. The team only got 40 players out for practice and three have already been injured — two for the season.
PLATTE VALLEY BRONCOS
Coach: Michael DeWall
2007 record: 11-2
Returning starters: 5 offense, 4 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, won 2A state title 21-7 over Platte Canyon
Strength: Offensive line
Weakness: Defensive backs
Players to watch: Tate Mekelburg, Sr., HB/LB, 6-3, 225; Armando Gonzales, Sr., OL/DE, 6-5, 260; Christian Ceh, Sr., OL/DL, 5-10, 210; Michael Hoffman, Sr., TE/LB, 6-2, 190; Klint Gehring, Jr., OL, 6-1, 260; Jordan Smith, Jr., QB or RB/DB, 5-10, 150
In 2008: The Broncos return three offensive line starters from last year’s 2A championship team, and Coach DeWall expects that to be the offensive identity of his team. He’s not sure if the team has any big playmakers, but rest assured Tate Mekelburg, last year’s 2A Player of the Year, certainly qualifies. As Mekelburg and the offensive line goes, so does Platte Valley in its quest for a third straight state championship game appearance and second straight title.
STRASBURG INDIANS
Coach: Jeff Giger
2007 record: 1-8
Returning starters: 8 offense, 7 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strength: Skill-position players
Weakness: Learning how to win
Players to watch: Cameron Weber, Sr., WR/DB, 6-0, 175; Geoff Keeling, Sr., RB/DB, 5-7, 145; Thomas Byrns, Sr., QB/LB, 5-11, 180; Matt Dunning, Jr., QB/LB, 6-0, 190; Danny Engelsman, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 230
In 2008: Strasburg changes conferences from the Flat Irons to the Patriot League this year, but the question is whether or not it will matter. Coach Giger says that for his team to succeed it must learn how to win. The team has won just one game in each of its last three seasons. But Giger hopes that his team’s early season schedule will breed some success. If so, the goal of a .500 season and possibly a fourth-place league finish could be attainable.
UNIVERSITY BULLDOGS
Coach: Hod Soto
2007 record: 6-3
Returning starters: N/A
Last playoff appearance: 1985
Strength: N/A
Weakness: N/A
Players to watch: N/A
In 2008: The team continues to make progress under Coach Soto’s leadership. After a 4-5 season in 2006, the Bulldogs won six games a year ago. But the team will have to overcome the loss of RB Dan Palmer and WR Seth Flack to graduation.
VALLEY VIKINGS
Coach: Ryan Wehrman
2007 record: 2-8
Returning starters: 4 offense, 7 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: Skill-position players
Weakness: Quarterback
Players to watch: Brandon Frank, Sr., WR/LB, 6-0, 185; Ben Dellenbach, Sr., OL/DE, 6-3, 225; Joe VanHoesan, Sr., RB/LB, 5-8, 160; Jesse Austin, Sr., OL, 5-10, 180; Clay Rainbolt, Sr., WR/LB, 6-3, 190
In 2008: Valley’s offensive identity will be decided by whomever wins the starting quarterback position. Juniors Quinn Kline, a traditional dropback passer, and Michael Hendrickson, a running QB, are battling for the spot. Whomever earns the job will dictate how the team’s offense flows, says Coach Wehrman. Fortunately, as Wehrman says, his team has three non-conference games to start the season find that identity.
WELD CENTRAL REBELS
Coach: Mike Brown
2007 record: 2-7
Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strength: Offensive, defensive line
Weakness: Inexperience
Players to watch: Mike Fitzman, Sr., DE, 6-4, 200; Dylan Marcoot, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 200; Alan Gudaa, Jr., OL/DL, 6-2, 260; Brandon Hoff, Soph., TE/FS, 6-2, 175; J.J. Sirios, Soph., QB/CB, 5-8, 150
In 2008: With only eight seniors on the roster — four starting on both sides of the ball — the Rebels will rely heavily on their sophomores and juniors to help carry the load. They’ll have to if Weld Central wants to achieve its goal of a .500 season or better.
Tri-Peaks Conference
COLORADO SPRINGS CHRISTIAN LIONS
Coach: Paul Passano
2007 record: 6-3
Returning starters: 4 offense, 5 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 2A quarterfinals 38-3 to Faith Christian
Strength: Athletic, speed
Weakness: Offensive, defensive lines, inexperience
Players to watch: Tyler Patterson, Sr., OL/DL, 5-11, 235; Rocco Bachara, Sr., QB/S, 6-0, 170; Thomas Kenney, Jr., RB/LB, 5-11, 210; Taylor Young, Soph., TE/ILB, 6-2, 195; Jake Snow, Jr., WR/CB, 5-8, 150; Matt Lemlay, Jr., G/DL, 5-11, 205; Josh Gregory, Sr., DT, 5-11, 145
In 2008: Colorado Springs Christian returns to the Tri-Peaks League after a two-year relocation to the Colorado League. Coach Passano brings with him a young team with 28 of his 47-player roster either freshmen or sophomores. CSCS has had a winning season for six years running, but its three-year playoff run ended last season by 1/100th of a point in the wildcard standings. The Lions face a tough schedule, opening with Faith Christian before facing conference favorites Manitou Springs, Trinidad and St. Mary’s early on.
DOLORES HUERTA SCORPIONS
Coach: Jerry Salazar
2007 record: 4-5
Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense
Last playoff appearance: N/A
Strength: Skill-position players
Weakness: Youth on offensive, defensive line
Players to watch: Mario Garcia, Soph., FB/MLB, 5-9, 190; Leon Probst, Sr., RB/DE/LB, 6-0, 205; Frank Martinez, Sr., QB/OLB, 5-8, 155; Chad Gatliss, Jr., C/DL, 5-11, 210; A.J. Gonzales, Sr., WR/FS, 5-7, 150; J.R. Harris, Soph., QB, 5-11, 160; Anthony Martin, Sr., TE/OLB, 5-10, 160
In 2008: Last season was the first for Dolores Huerta, and this year the team moves into the 2A Tri-Peaks Conference with sights set on the playoffs. The Scorpions overcame the rookie jitters in ’07 to win four games and build an early foundation. But the loss of six seniors will hurt as Dolores Huerta faces the likes of Trinidad and La Junta.
ELLICOTT THUNDERHAWKS
Coach: Donte Stewart
2007 record: 2-7
Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2000
Strength: Senior leadership
Weakness: Youth
Players to watch: Ryan Miller, Jr., QB, 6-1, 175; Greg Witting, Sr., WR, 5-10, 161; Clint Schubert, Sr., WR, 6-1, 159; T.J. Miller, Sr., OL/DL, 6-2, 279; Jacob Poe, Sr., RB/DB, 5-9, 168
In 2008: Expectations are high in Coach Stewart’s second year at Ellicott. The ThunderHawks had 70 to 80 percent participation in the offseason program and the players, according to Stewart, are starting to grasp the offensive and defensive systems. “I see us competing possible for top 3 in our conferene,” Stewart said. But for Ellicott to do that it will have to contend with Florence, Manitou Springs — the defending conference champion, Trinidad and Colorado Springs Christian School. Ellicott has three conference games before facing the first of those four, Trinidad, on the road Oct. 3.
FLORENCE HUSKIES
Coach: Mark Buderus
2007 record: 7-4
Returning starters: 5 offense, 5 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost in first round 3A playoffs
Strength: Team chemistry
Weakness: Inexperience
Players to watch: Heath Baker, Jr., QB, 6-0, 180; Lou Montez, Sr., WR, 5-9, 160; Brett Leader, Sr., RB, 5-9, 175; Ben Bosley, Sr., OT, 6-2, 200; Mike Martinez, Sr., DB, 5-10, 160
In 2008: Florence moves down from 3A to 2A, but Coach Buderus doesn’t expect the competition to be any easier. If anything, it might be tougher with the lack of knowledge of the teams the Huskies will be facing. But one person he will certainly know something about is his son, Clint, who is the head coach at La Junta this season.
LA JUNTA TIGERS
Coach: Clint Buderus
2007 record: 3-6
Returning starters: N/A
Last playoff appearance: 2003
Strength: Senior leadership
Weakness: Lack of numbers, new system
Players to watch: Phillip Merwin, Sr., FB/LB, 5-10, 190; Robert Coffelt, Sr., RB/LB, 5-11, 190; Mike Poallocci, Jr., QB, 5-10, 200; Dominick Garbiso, Jr., DE, 6-0, 190; Colby Thompson, Sr., TE, 6-1, 180; Paul Martinez, Jr., S, 6-0, 170
In 2008: For the Tigers, the mindset of taking things one game at a time has never been truer. La Junta only had 40 players come out for football this season and the team is learning a new system under head coach Clint Buderus. That, and as Coach Buderus points out, his team has to come together as a team, something that he says hasn’t been the case in previous seasons.
LAMAR SAVAGES
Coach: Jason Tice
2007 record: 4-5
Returning starters: N/A
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 2A opening round 20-0 to Denver Christian
Strength: N/A
Weakness: N/A
Players to watch: N/A
In 2008: The Savages were four points away from a 6-3 season and a 5-1 mark in the conference with a 25-24 loss to St. Mary’s and a 23-20 defeat at Manitou Springs a year ago. Those two losses cost Lamar a share of the Tri-Peaks title. If the Savages are eyeing a possible conference title run this year, they must take care of business before two huge home games to end the season against Trinidad and Manitou Springs, last year’s co-conference champions.
MANITOU SPRINGS MUSTANGS
Coach: John McGee
2007 record: 7-3
Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 2A opening round 35-14 to Platte Valley
Strength: Core of group players, returners
Weakness: Lack of depth, size
Players to watch: Daniel Gieke, Sr., WR/DB, 6-0, 175; Alex Reiter, Sr., QB/DL, 6-1, 210; Eric Engberg, Sr., OL/LB, 5-10, 155; Zach Johnston, Sr., WR/DB, 6-1, 165; Nick Brown, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 175; Nate Brown, Sr, OL/DL, 6-0, 175
In 2008: If the Mustangs can stay healthy, says Coach McGee, then he feels his team can compete in the Tri-Peaks League. But health will be the key. The home schedule didn’t hurt, either, as Manitou Springs will play conference foes Colorado Springs Christian, Florence and St. Mary’s all at home.
ST. MARY’S PIRATES
Coach: Matt Walter
2007 record: 5-4
Returning starters: 6 offense, 4 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2005
Strength: Offensive, defensive lines
Weakness: Skill-position players (QB, WR and DB)
Players to watch: Trevor Thomas, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 175; Tyler Torrez, Sr., OL/DL, 6-2, 206; Emmett Morton, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 260; Brian Bagness, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 306; Burton Crosby, Sr., WR/S, 5-11, 155
In 2008: Three of the past four seasons, St. Mary’s has finished second in the Tri-Peaks League. Last year, Coach Walter’s squad finished third. And their goal of winning a conference championship has gotten any easier with Colorado Springs Christian coming back into the fold and Florence dropping down from 3A.
TRINIDAD MINERS
Coach: Randy Begano
2007 record: 8-2
Returning starters: 4 offense, 4 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 2A opening round to Platte Canyon
Strength: Skill-position players
Weakness: Offensive, defensive lines
Players to watch: Casey Patterson, Sr., RB/DB, 5-8, 155; Billy Gallegos, Sr., RB/DB, 5-10, 175; Darian Dasko Sr., OL/OLB, 6-1, 185; Bryton Mangino, Sr., TE/OLB, 6-1, 190
Brandon Espinoza, Jr., QB, 5-11, 175
In 2008: Trinidad won back-to-back conference titles, but the loss of a handful of seniors to graduation and the addition of Florence and Colorado Springs Christian to the conference will make the task of winning a third-straight championship a little harder than it’s been. But the Miners’ cause is helped by the return of Patterson, who rushed for more than 1,300 yards last season.
Western Slope Conference
ASPEN SKIERS
Coach: Mike Sirko
2007 record: 7-3
Returning starters: N/A
Last playoff appearance: 2007
Strength: Revitalization of program
Weakness: Inexperience, loss of 12 seniors
Players to watch: Anderson Cole, Jr., QB; Travis VanDomelen, Sr., FB/LB; Beau Seguin, Sr., TB/LB Beau Seguin, Sr.
In 2008: For the first time since 1974, the Skiers made the playoffs in 2007. It was a short trip — one and done — but Aspen revitalized hope in the program. But the Skiers will have to conjure up some new magic in 2008 if they want to continue this success as Apsen graduted 12 seniors from last year’s squad, including star RB Tucker Eason, who rushed for 1,699 yards and 20 touchdowns.
BASALT LONGHORNS
Coach: Carl Frerichs
2007 record: 2-7
Returning starters: 4 offense, 4 defense
Last playoff appearance: 1987
Strength: Senior class
Weakness: Injury bug
Players to watch: Taylor Niko-Foreman, Sr., DE/TE, 6-6, 240; Cody Kosinski, Sr, RB/LB, 6-0, 180; Luke Diekman, Sr., DE/TE, Sr., 6-2, 190; Dalton Jacobson, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 160; Seth Willits, Sr. G/DT, 5-10, 260
In 2008: Injuries and player eligibility have a way of taking their toll on the Longhorns. But another factor, just putting together four quarters of football, stands a long way in Coach Frerichs’ team from being a playoff contender instead of being near the bottom of the league. Basalt lost three games by a combined 10 points last season — the difference between a 2-7 season and what could’ve been a 5-4 year.
CEDAREDGE BRUINS
Coach: Eric Hollombeak
2007 record: 1-8
Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2002
Strength: Experienced returners
Weakness: Size
Players to watch: N/A
In 2008: For Coach Hollembeak, his team has to come together as a team if it wants to succeed. If it does that, then the Bruins have a chance, in his mind, of making the playoffs. The 16 returning starters certainly help the cause. The coaching staff intends to use their player’s strength to build a system that fit’s the personnel.
COAL RIDGE TITANS
Coach: Scott Parker
2007 record: 1-8
Returning starters: 9 offense, 9 defense
Last playoff appearance: None
Strength: Senior class
Weakness: Passing game
Players to watch: Brady Gasaway, Sr., RB/LB, 5-9, 195; Josh Alsop, Sr., RB/LB, 5-8, 175; Robbie Rausin, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 235; Kevin Laidlaw, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 190; Keenan Grumley, Sr., QB, 5-7, 165
In 2008: Excitement is in the air at Coal Ridge as the school fields its first full senior class. The fourth-year school hopes to build off the experience of the past three years and start to put more wins on the board. But first things first, Coach Parker hopes his team can take its first three games of the season, all non-conference, and use those to build consistency on both offense and defense. Three victories wouldn’t hurt, either.
GRAND VALLEY CARDINALS
Coach: Mike Johnson
2007 record: 10-1
Returning starters: 7 offense, 8 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 1A quarterfinals 20-19 to Wray
Strength: N/A
Weakness: N/A
Players to watch: Colton Cowan, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 200; Cole Kraft, Sr., LB; William Waugh, Sr., LB; Ryan Gallegos, Jr., QB
In 2008: Grand Valley makes the move up to 2A after a perfect 10-0 regular season in 2007. The Cardinals, however, were upset in the first-round of the playoffs. Nevertheless, Grand Valley brings back a strong core of players and are expected to be a contender in the Western Slope in its first year.
GUNNISON COWBOYS
Coach: Dennis Fraser
2007 record: 8-2
Returning starters: 4 offense, 4 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 2A opening round 31-6 to Buena Vista
Strength: Backfield
Weakness: Inexperience on offensive line
Players to watch: Connor Coleman, Sr., TE/DE, 6-4, 210; Brett George, Sr., RB/DB, 5-10, 175; Joel Fraser, Sr., RB/LB, 6-0, 185; Evan Ferchau, Jr., RB/LB, 5-11, 205; Brandon Stevens, Sr., WR/DB, 5-11, 190
In 2008: A year after a first-round playoff loss, Coach Fraser hopes that his Cowboys learned enough from that loss that it will motivate them to go beyond that point this season. But first things first is the Western Slope League championship. If some of his younger player step up, says Fraser, he says his team can be competitive in the league. His defense should be in solid hands, but the offense will be breaking in a new quarterback and virtually a new offensive line, with just one returning lineman.
OLATHE PIRATES
Coach: Ryan Corn
2007 record: 8-3
Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense
Last playoff appearance: 2007, lost 2A state quarterfinals 22-6 to Platte Valley
Strength: Overall defense
Weakness: Young offensive line
Players to watch: David Rhodes, Sr., RB/DE, 5-9, 215; Chris Brummitt, Sr., TE/LB, 6-2, 202; Marvin Rivera, Sr., RB/NG, 5-10, 180; Tyler Hawk, Sr., OL/DL, 5-11, 254; J.D. Jimenez, Sr., DE, 6-0, 205; J.C. Jimenez, Sr., LB, 6-0, 170
In 2008: The Pirates bring back the core of their defense, which Coach Corn says was the strength of his team last year. Corn said that if his team can get its offensive line, he sees no reason why Olathe can’t compete in the Western Slope. But he expects Gunnison to be tough again and Aspen to continue its success from 2007. But Grand Valley, coming up from 1A, could be the team to beat.
ROARING FORK RAMS
Coach: Greg Holley
2007 record: 3-6
Returning starters: N/A
Last playoff appearance: 2006, lost 43-13 to Brush
Strength: Senior class
Weakness: New system for the second time in three years
Players to watch: Ryan Weimer, Sr., QB; Nate Soucie, Sr., RB/KR/K; Jon Araujo, Sr. OL/DL, Soren Phibbs, Sr., RB/LB; Cameron Ellis, Sr., TE/LB; Jack Stokan, Sr., OL/DL, Tyler Thompson, Sr., OL/LB
In 2008: Holley takes over as head coach, replacing Mike Brinson. The former Woodland Park coach also will step in as the school’s athletic director. He’ll hope to turn things around for once-formidable powerhours Roaring Fork. A year after an 8-2 season, the Rams struggled. Five of the team’s six losses were by 14 points or more as Roaring Fork missed the playoffs for the first time since 1998. But a lot of that could be contributed to inexperience. The team had just three seniors in 2007. This year, it has 12.
