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Colorado
BENNETT TIGERS
• Coach: Rick Jacoby
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Eight offense, nine defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2004
• Strengths: Tigers return most of their starters on both sides of the ball.
• Weaknesses: Lack of depth
• Players to watch: Tyler Brack, Sr., T-DT, 6-1, 250; Elliot Copeland, Sr., LB-FB, 6-0, 190; Chance Rodriquez, Jr., T-DE, 6-2, 210; Jesse Stemo, Sr., WR-DB, 5-8, 170.
• In 2010: With the bulk of its starters returning, Bennett expects to make a run at a playoff berth. Stemo is a versatile slot receiver, and Jacoby expects good things from senior Will Lohman, a transfer from Grandview who will make the transition from nose guard to defensive end.
DENVER WEST COWBOYS
• Coach: Leon Garcia
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Three offense, five defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1995
• Strengths: Great size on offensive line
• Weaknesses: Youth and inexperience
• Players to watch: Jonathan Dean, Sr.; DE-FB, 6-0, 210; Brandon Herrera, Sr., WR-DB, 6-0, 150; Eduardo Lira, Jr., OL-DL, 6-0, 285; Antoine Martinez, Jr., WR, 6-1, 170; Zach Roberts, Sr., OL-DL, 5-9, 240.
• In 2010: Led by first-year coach Garcia, a ’92 graduate of West and a former assistant with the program, the Cowboys will benefit from the drop down from Class 4A. Lira and Roberts anchor a huge offensive line that should spearhead a solid running game. Martinez and Herrera will provide speed on the perimeter.
KENT DENVER SUN DEVILS
• Coach: Scott Yates
• 2009 record: 11-3
• Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Strong depth difficult to match at 2A level.
• Weaknesses: Several sophomores must step into key roles.
• Players to watch: Jack Addy, Sr., TE, 6-4, 200; Clay DesJardin, Sr., LB, 6-1, 185; Matt Florence, Jr., RB, 5-9, 165; Collins Gantz, Jr., WR, 5-8, 160; Zach Motz, Sr., OL-DL, 6-5, 225; Allen Tellis, Sr., LB, 6-2, 185; Richard Yates, Sr., QB, 6-2, 180.
• In 2010: The return of Richard Yates, who missed last season because of a knee injury, will add an explosive talent to a group that reached the 2A championship game last season. Florence, who filled in admirably at quarterback last year, moves to running back. Senior kicker Dan Brugioni gives the Sun Devils a unique weapon.
MANUAL THUNDERBOLTS
• Coach: Doug Clinkscales
• 2009 record: 2-8
• Returning starters: Nine offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1997
• Strengths: Big and experienced offensive line comprised of four seniors and one junior
• Weaknesses: Fledgling program still needs to learn how to win
• Players to watch: Carl Dixon, Sr., WR, 5-8, 162; Luis Minjarez, Sr., OL-DL, 6-2, 315; Aramis Pryor, Sr., LB-RB, 5-9, 215; Eric Reed, Jr., RB-DB, 5-6, 145; Josh Spearman, Sr., OL-DT, 5-11, 282;
• In 2010: The Thunderbolts will boast seniors for the first time since the program was re-launched. Minjarez and Spearman lead a huge offensive line that will help eliminate pressure from newcomers at running back and quarterback.
PLATTE CANYON HUSKIES
• Coach: Mike Schmidt
• 2009 record: 12-1
• Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Great talent and experience in the offensive backfield
• Weaknesses: Holes to fill on the offensive line
• Players to watch: Michael Clarke, Sr., QB-LB, 6-2, 220; Sebastian Gerard, Sr., C-DE, 6-1, 195; Mikey Gunkel, Sr., RB, 5-11, 180; Blake Hoibert, Sr., G-LB, 6-0, 200; Chase Johnson, Sr., TE-DT, 6-2, 250.
• In 2010: Gunkel and Clarke likely will amass plenty of yards in the Huskies’ double-wing offense. Platte Canyon also will be strong on defense, but the key to making a return trip to the 2A final four will be the play of the Huskies’ offensive line.
SHERIDAN RAMS
• Coach: Dwayne Davis
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1999
• Strengths: Defense and a solid running game
• Weaknesses: Rams were undone by too many mental mistakes and turnovers in 2009.
• Players to watch: E.J. Allen, Sr., FB-LB, 6-2, 245; Mark Scheluke, Sr., LB-OL, 6-3, 250; Dominic Tafoya, Jr., LB-FB, 6-0, 200; Emmanuel Tobin, Jr., C, 5-10, 235; Pete Villa, Jr., QB, 5-9, 160.
• In 2010: Sheridan will have good size on defense and along the offensive line. Continuing progress in the second year of Davis’ tenure should lead to improvement.
Flatirons
THE ACADEMY WILDCATS
• Coach: Seth Replogle
• 2009 record: 7-3
• Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
• Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
• Strengths: Experience on line and at skill positions
• Weaknesses: First-year starter at quarterback
• Players to watch: Shane Cathcart, Jr., TE-LB, 6-5, 210; Luke Edney, Sr., OL-DE, 6-5, 255; Steven Emerson, Sr., G-DT, 6-0, 260; Jon Hill, Jr., LB-RB, 6-0, 175; Darron Underwood, Jr., WR-DB, 5-9, 160.
• In 2010: The Wildcats hope to build on a strong 2009 campaign to make a run at their first playoff berth. The Academy will be strong up front on both sides of the ball and boast a dynamic talent in Underwood, who also is a dangerous punt returner. One key will be the play of new quarterback John Elliott, who served as a backup the past two seasons.
BISHOP MACHEBEUF BUFFALOES
• Coach: Kevin McGinty
• 2009 record: 3-7
• Returning starters: Eight offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1988
• Strengths: Strong players at skill positions
• Weaknesses: Depth on the offensive and defensive lines
• Players to watch: David Brown, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 185; Casey Kipp, Sr., TE, 6-5, 200; Jake Mier, Sr., LB-FB, 5-11, 190; Brian Smith, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 160.
• In 2010: The senior-heavy Buffaloes boast a strong runner in Brown, but they must display more balance on offense in order to consistently create holes for him. Machebeuf expects to improve but has a difficult schedule that includes nonconference dates against Kent Denver and Manitou Springs.
FAITH CHRISTIAN EAGLES
• Coach: Blair Hubbard
• 2009 record: 14-0
• Returning starters: Four offense, three defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Rich in talent at skill positions
• Weaknesses: Revamped offensive line
• Players to watch: Marcus Banister, Sr., LB, 5-9, 210; Alex Buchmann, Jr., QB, 5-10, 165; David Kim, Sr., DT, 6-0, 285; Evan Marshall, Sr., WR-DB, 6-2, 180; Derek McCartney, Jr., DE, 6-4, 185; Oran Tool, Jr., RB, 5-8, 170.
• In 2010: Defending state champs will make another run at a title if the Eagles’ inexperienced offensive line grows up quickly. Buchmann takes over at quarterback after playing safety last year, and Hubbard expects big things in the running game from Tool, who had several big games during Faith’s playoff run.
MEAD MAVERICKS
• Coach: Martin Clark
• 2009 record: 1-9 (JV schedule)
• Returning starters: 11 offense, 11 defense
• Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
• Strengths: Enthusiasm and a young group that has played together several seniors
• Weaknesses: No seniors and lack of size
• Players to watch: Christian Carrillo, Jr.,, FB-LB, 6-1, 200; Eric Rademacher, Jr., RB-LB, 5-11, 180; Greg Rademacher, Jr., QB, 5-11, 180.
• In 2010: Enthusiasm abounds at Mead, where the football program is being resurrected after a 50-year hiatus. The Mavericks struggled through a JV schedule last year, leaving coach Clark in a position where he will be keen on celebrating the team’s small victories throughout 2010.
MIDDLE PARK PANTHERS
• Coach: Troy Schmidt
• 2009 record:1-9
• Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1994
• Strengths: Second year of rebuilding phase under Schmidt
• Weaknesses: Youth and inexperienced
• Players to watch: Sam Little, Jr., DB-RB, 6-1, 165; Brian Macchione, Jr., FB-DL, 5-11, 215; Marc Schmidt, Sr., RB, 5-10, 175;
• In 2010: Youthful Panthers will boast a strong running game behind Marc Schmidt, who amassed more than 900 yards last year despite missing several games due to injuries. Macchione will be a force on both sides of the ball.
THE PINNACLE TIMBERWOLVES
• Coach: Eric Hahn
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Seven offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
• Strengths: Great size along the offensive line
• Weaknesses: Youth and lack of depth
• Players to watch: Justin Akes, Jr., QB, 6-1, 155; Neil Ballensky, Sr., LT-DT, 6-0, 275; Frankie Duke, Sr., WR-CB, 6-0, 160; David Kerley, So., RB-LB, 5-9, 160.
• In 2010: The third-year program looks to take another step forward after showing improvement in 2009. The Timberwolves should be able to run the ball behind a line that features three players at least 6-foot and 250-pounds.
Mountain
ALAMOSA MAROONS
• Coach: Jose Ortega
• 2009 record: 2-7
• Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2006
• Strengths: Big, athletic offensive line powers running game.
• Weaknesses: Several question marks on defense.
• Players to watch: C.J. Carpenter, Sr., T, 6-3, 260; Marco Darela, Sr., NG, 6-1, 240; Jezeriah Gaitan, Sr., T, 6-4, 275; Justin Salazar, Sr., LB-FB, 6-0, 220.
• In 2010: The drop down from Class 3A to 2A should reap huge dividends for Alamosa, which expects to compete for the conference crown. Ortega believes his club will reach that goal if it is able to play sound defense. Carpenter and Gaitan anchor a strong offensive line.
BAYFIELD WOLVERINES
• Coach: Marshall Hahn
• 2009 record: 7-4
• Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Depth and versatility at skill positions
• Weaknesses: Youthful, junior-heavy team
• Players to watch: Tanner McGhehey, Sr., LB, 5-9, 165; Seth Posey, Jr., FB, 6-3, 230; Aaron Velasquez, Jr., RB, 5-9, 175; Holt Walker, Jr., QB-S, 5-8, 155.
• In 2010: The Wolverines will benefit from a return to form by Posey, who gained more than 800 rushing yards through the first seven games last season before a knee injury ended his season. Bayfield has few seniors, but the youthful group gained much experience with its first-round playoff loss against eventual state champion Faith Christian.
BUENA VISTA DEMONS
• Coach: Bob Marken
• 2009 record: 2-8
• Returning starters: Eight offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2008
• Strengths: Veteran offensive line
• Weaknesses: Habit of allowing too many big plays on defense
• Players to watch: Tim Allen, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 200; Dakota Johnson, Jr., RB-S, 5-9, 150; Logan Osborne, Sr., TE-LB, 6-3, 215; Oliver Reed, Sr., T-DT, 6-5, 285.
• In 2010: The Demons were young last year and will return much of that cast in 2010. A solid offensive line should open plenty of holes for Johnson, the team’s leading rusher a year ago.
CENTAURI FALCONS
• Coach: Kyle Forster
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1997
• Strengths: Strong running game
• Weaknesses: Falcons had a penchant for untimely penalties in 2009.
• Players to watch:Ryan Campbell, Sr., QB, 5-11, 160; Bryan Cortez, Jr., WR-CB, 5-10, 160; Damian Romero, OL-DL, 6-2, 235; Teddy Velasquez, Sr., RB-S, 6-1, 190.
• In 2010: Forster believes better discipline will lead to fewer penalties and a solid step forward for the Falcons. Velasquez leads a strong running game and Forster expects a strong season in the pocket from Campbell.
MONTEZUMA-CORTEZ PANTHERS
• Coach: Chuck Cotter
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: 10 offense, 10 defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1994
• Strengths: Solid experience on the offensive line and on defense
• Weaknesses: Panthers were a poor tackling team in 2009.
• Players to watch: Stephen Candelaria, Jr., OL-DL, 6-2, 215; Ryan Haley, Sr., WR-LB, 6-2, 175; Stanton Jeter, Sr., OL-DL,6-0, 205; Minh Phan, Sr., FB-LB, 5-7, 180.
• In 2010: The drop into 2A from 3A should aid the Panthers, who had difficulty competing with the sheer numbers boasted by former league rivals such as Palisade. Better tackling and eliminating mental mistakes should all but guarantee an improved win total.
PAGOSA SPRINGS PIRATES
• Coach: Sean O’Donnell
• 2009 record: 7-4
• Returning starters: Five offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Talent at skill positions
• Weaknesses: Lack of toughness on defense
• Players to watch: Zach Lucero, Sr., WR-DB, 5-9, 160; Dakota Miller, Sr., RB-LB, 5-8, 170; Tyson Ross, Jr., QB-LB, 6-0, 180; Preston Sandoval, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 215.
• In 2010: Ross is expected to provide a strong running threat at quarterback after moving over from wide receiver. The Pirates need to shore up a defense that allowed 46 points in a first-round playoff loss against Aspen.
SALIDA SPARTANS
• Coach: Phil Gardunio
• 2009 record: 5-6
• Returning starters: Nine offense, nine defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Wealth of talent at skill positions
• Weaknesses: Young offensive line
• Players to watch: Chris Coscarella, Sr., QB, 5-11, 165; Donnie Gocha, Sr., LB, 5-10, 165; Jared McDonald, Jr., TE-DL, 6-3, 200; Clint Myers, Sr., LB-FB, 6-4, 220; Bart Schleicher, Sr., WR-DB-K, 5-11, 160; Jacob Weiss, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 190.
• In 2010: Gardunio reports that his team boasts the best set of skill position players he has enjoyed in six seasons at Salida. In order for those players to help lead the Spartans into contention in the league, Salida needs its young offensive line to mature quickly.
Patriot
BRUSH BEETDIGGERS
• Coach: Randy Dreitz
• 2009 record: 8-5
• Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Strong depth at running back
• Weaknesses: Must adapt after key losses on defense
• Players to watch: C.J. Kukus, Sr., WR-DB, 6-3, 175; Joe Rosenbrock, Sr., RB-LB, 5-10, 185; Skylar Seewald, Sr., RB-LB, 6-1, 220; Connor Weisser, Jr., RB-DE, 6-1, 210.
• In 2010: Brush should have one of the best running attacks in the state. Seewald and Rosenbrock each were injured in the Beetdiggers’ first game last year and missed most of the season, but Weisser stepped in to rush for more than 1,100 yards in their place. Brush hopes to continue to ride the momentum it collected after starting the ’09 campaign 0-4 before riding an eight-game winning streak into the playoffs.
EATON REDS
• Coach: Bill Mondt
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2008
• Strengths: Offense expected to be high-scoring unit
• Weaknesses: Must get tougher on defense.
• Players to watch: Tony Ball, Sr., QB, 6-0, 175; Garrett Carroll, Sr., NT, 6-3, 250; Darrin Foss, Jr., TE, 6-4, 220; Caleb Selby, Sr., DB, 6-0, 180; Seth Selby, Sr., DB, 6-0, 180; Tyler Smith, Sr., WR, 5-9, 155; Tucker Stults, Sr., OL, 6-4, 290.
• In 2010: Ball, coming off an ankle season that derailed the end of his 2009 season, will spearhead an offense that boasts a wealth of weapons at the skill positions. Carroll will anchor the interior of the Reds’ defense for the third consecutive season but will need help if Eaton hops to make a playoff push.
ESTES PARK BOBCATS
• Coach: Steve Urban
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2003
• Strengths: New attitude and fresh excitement instilled by first-year coach Urban
• Weaknesses: Weak numbers overall have the Bobcats years away from league contention.
• Players to watch: Sam KellerTwigg, Sr., LB-TE, 6-5, 190; Kayle Robidart, So., RB, 5-9, 145; Jonathan Santana, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 220; Josh Santiago, So., LB, 5-9, 185; Kent White, Jr., RB, 6-0, 160.
• In 2010: Urban has brought a fresh attitude from his previous post in rural Texas, and he has been busy “recruiting the hallways” to improve the Bobcats’ poor roster numbers. Playing time will mostly go to youngsters, who may struggle but will be asked to set a foundation for seasons to come.
PLATTE VALLEY BRONCOS
• Coach: Troy Hoffman
• 2009 record: 10-2
• Returning starters: Two offense, one defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Great team speed
• Weaknesses: Inexperience across both sides of the ball
• Players to watch: Trent Fahrenbruch, Jr., LB, 5-10, 165; Junior Gonzalez, Jr., OT, 6-3, 222; Adam Hange, Sr., QB, 5-8, 150; Jake Naibauer, Sr., RB-LB, 5-9, 190; Jordan Perez, Jr., G, 5-9, 225; Billy Wilson, Sr., LB, 5-10, 175;
• In 2010: Hoffman takes over after previously serving as the programs defensive coordinator and expects his team to reload despite losing numerous starters from a team that reached the state quarterfinals. Hoffman believes a repeat playoff run is possible if the club’s revamped lineup meshes quickly.
STRASBURG INDIANS
• Coach: Jeff Giger
• 2009 record: 6-4
• Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2003
• Strengths: Balanced offense with several skilled weapons
• Weaknesses: Lack of size and a sophomore quarterback.
• Players to watch: Nick Graham, Sr., FS-WR, 6-0, 180; Julian Lopez, Sr., RB-DL, 5-10, 190; Jordan Ross, Jr., LB-RB, 5-9, 150.
• In 2010: Sophomore Glenn Wallace takes over at quarterback and must grow up in a hurry if the Indians hope to make a playoff push. However, Wallace will have plenty of weapons at his disposal in Graham and Lopez, the team’s leading rusher in 2009.
UNIVERSITY BULLDOGS
• Coach: Tom Grasmick
• 2009 record: 2-8
• Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1985
• Strengths: Depth and talent at the skill positions
• Weaknesses: Weak depth and question marks on the offensive line
• Players to watch: Drew Coggswell, So., WR-LB, 6-1, 175; Christian Dick, Sr., QB-DB, 6-2, 195; Josh White, Jr., OL-DL, 6-2, 240.
• In 2010: Grasmick believes he boasts the best defense the program has enjoyed in years. Dick and Coggswell lead a talented group of skill positions, but the Bulldogs will be unable to compete unless their offensive linemen can create holes.
VALLEY VIKINGS
• Coach: Ryan Wehrman
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Eight offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2005
• Strengths: Wealth of returning starters on both sides of the ball
• Weaknesses: Lack of success has left squad in need of confidence
• Players to watch: Joe Dellenbach, Jr., QB, 6-6, 170; Hunter Gonzales, Sr., TE-LB, 6-2, 185; Drew Matsushima, Jr., WR-DB, 5-10, 160; J.J. Schoenhofer, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 195.
• In 2010: Dellenbach will provide a tall presence in the pocket, and he will have ample weapons led by Gonzales and Matsushima. Wehrman says that if his team pays attention to the small details and shores up its confidence, more wins will follow.
WELD CENTRAL REBELS
• Coach: Mike Brown
• 2009 record: 7-4
• Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Skill players as good as any in Class 2A
• Weaknesses: Offensive line must come through
• Players to watch: Trevor Hammock, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 200; Brandon Hoff, Sr., WR-DB, 6-3, 185; Garrett Page, Sr., WR-DB, 5-10, 200; J.J. Sirios, Sr., QB-DB, 5-10, 155;
• In 2010: The Rebels expect to score points-the team’s scoring average dropped from 35 to 21 once Sirios was injured for the final three games last year. Now healthy, Sirios will be one of the top running-passing threats in 2A.
Tri-Peaks
COLORADO SPRINGS CHRISTIAN LIONS
• Coach: Jay Kersey
• 2009 record: 7-3
• Returning starters: Six offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2006
• Strengths: Experience and great team chemistry
• Weaknesses: Replacing three starters in secondary
• Players to watch: Jacob Blythe, Sr., K-S, 6-5, 190; David Furtado, Sr., 6-0, 220, OL; Jim Kenney, So., RB, 5-10, 165; Mark Nelson, Sr., FB, 5-11, 180; Taylor Young, Sr., QB, 6-3, 210;
• In 2010: Furtado leads a veteran offensive line that will employ four seniors and one junior. The group should open plenty of holes for Kenney and Nelson, who led the Lions in rushing in 2009.
FLORENCE HUSKIES
• Coach: Mark Buderus
• 2009 record: 9-2
• Returning starters: Seven offense, four defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Large group of seniors providing leadership in an established program
• Weaknesses: Uneven special teams play
• Players to watch: John Alexander, Sr., RB-S, 6-0, 175; Skyler Kepley, Sr., LB, 6-0, 170; Corey Marques, Sr., SS, 5-10, 170; Arbran Mendoza, Sr., CB, 5-7, 150; Austin Reeves, Sr., TE, 6-2, 210.
• In 2010: The beat keeps going for the Huskies, who once again are a favorite to win the league. Florence should score plenty of points with Alexander leading the charge on the ground, but the Huskies’ playoff aspirations will hinge on the play of a defense that features inexperience at several positions.
LaJUNTA TIGERS
• Coach: Clint Buderus
• 2009 record: 3-7
• Returning starters: Seven offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2003
• Strengths: Hard-working bunch eager to take the next step
• Weaknesses: Lineup that will feature several inexperienced sophomores
• Players to watch: Derek Cornelius, Sr., T-LB, 5-10, 200; Dustin Gabehart, Jr., T-DL, 5-10, 185; Sean Maik, Sr., FB-LB, 5-10, 165; Drew Sisson, Jr., QB-S, 5-9, 155; Keenan Wahlert, Sr., DL-C, 5-10, 165.
• In 2010: Sophomores will permeate the Tigers’ lineup, but LaJunta still expects improvement. Cornelius leads a solid offensive line, and Sisson will provide offensive leadership at quarterback.
LAMAR SAVAGES
• Coach: Jason Tice
• 2009 record: 8-3
• Returning starters: Five offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Impressive team speed
• Weaknesses: New faces along the line on both sides of the ball
• Players to watch: Darrian Adame, Sr., WR-DB, 5-7. 145; Emilio Carrillo, Sr., LB-FB, 5-10, 205; Tony Herrera, JR., OL-DL, 6-1, 285; Branson Jennings, Jr., QB, 6-1, 205; Michael Niedens, Sr., OL, 6-0, 255; Erik Nieschburg, RB, 5-10, 170; Ricky Rodriquez, Sr., DB, 5-8, 165; Josh Viar, Sr., LB-OL, 5-10, 190.
• In 2010: The Savages expect to feature a versatile offense led by Jennings that will boast plenty of speed. How well Lamar can take advantage of that speed will depend on the growth of the offensive line. The Savages also will feature speed at linebacker and in the secondary.
MANITOU SPRINGS MUSTANGS
• Coach: John McGee
• 2009 record: 5-5
• Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2008
• Strengths: Talented sophomore class that saw playing time last year
• Weaknesses: Youth
• Players to watch: J.D. Barnes, Sr., WR, 5-10, 170; Coty Blumenfeld, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 240.
• In 2010: McGee, a 1991 graduate of Manitou Springs, begins his first season at the helm of the Mustangs’ program. McGee inherits a young team that will rely heavily on the explosive skills of Barnes, who also is a premiere kick returner. Blumenfeld will anchor both sides of the line after not playing during the ’09 campaign.
ST. MARY’S PIRATES
• Coach: Nic Olney
• 2009 record: 1-9
• Returning starters: Six offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2005
• Strengths: Significant jump in roster size this season for rebuilding program
• Weaknesses: Inexperience at just about every position
• Players to watch: Greg O’Donnell, Sr., K, 6-0, 190; Michael Francis, Sr., RB, 6-5, 205; Sunny Munger, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 205; Cade Wolf, Sr., RB-LB, 5-8, 185.
• In 2010: The Pirates expect to take a step forward with far more participants in the first year of new coach Olney’s rebuilding plan. Expect to see many sophomores and even a few freshmen on the field. Wolf is a solid runner, and O’Donnell offers a unique weapon on special teams.
TRINIDAD MINERS
• Coach: Randy Begano
• 2009 record: 6-4
• Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2007
• Strengths: Experienced offensive line and a solid quarterback
• Weaknesses: Plugging a few holes on defense
• Players to watch: Erik DeCristino, Jr., T-DL, 5-10, 255; Trent Gomez, Jr., RB-DB, 5-9, 160; Tyler Hance, Sr., OL-DL, 6-1, 220; Jared Maez, Sr. T-DL, 6-0, 285; Nick Mason, Jr., TE-LB, 6-2, 195; Chris Ochoa, Sr., K-P-WR, 6-2, 165; Dylan Trujillo, Sr., QB, 5-8, 170.
• In 2010: The Miners will compete for the league crown behind a versatile running attack led by a big, experienced offensive line. Trujillo rushed for more than 1,600 yards last season and also will help lead a defense that needs to grow up in several spots in order to make a playoff run.
Western
ASPEN SKIERS
• Coach: Mike Sirko
• 2009 record: 9-3
• Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Punishing rushing attack
• Weaknesses: A defense that must become more stern
• Players to watch: Alex Christenson, Sr., QB-LB, 6-3, 180; Dane Christenson, Sr., C-DL, 6-4, 235; Ben Karbank, Sr., G-DT, 5-11, 205; Taylor Mayer, Sr., FS, 5-11, 175; Nate Morman, Sr., OL-DL, 5-11, 180; Danny Munger, Sr., LB-K, 5-7, 175; Jake Nugent, Jr., TE, 6-3, 190; Joey O’Callahan, Sr., LB, 5-6, 175; Dan Ryerson, Sr., LB-FB, 5-10, 225; Mike Schwartz, Sr., WR-LB, 6-0, 165; Forrest Thomas, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 185; Nick Ufkes, Sr., RB, 5-6, 180; Jonathan Woodrow, Sr.; 6-2, 245.
• In 2010: Ufkes is perhaps the most explosive runner in 2A, but he benefits from a veteran line led by Morman, Thomas, Woodrow, and Dane Christenson. Rex Christenson is an experienced passer who is capable of keeping defenses from keying entirely on Ufkes.
BASALT LONGHORNS
• Coach: Carl Frerichs
• 2009 record: 4-6
• Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: 1987
• Strengths: Junior and sophomore-heavy team gained valuable experience last year
• Weaknesses: Very thin depth
• Players to watch: Erick Enriquez, Sr., RB-NT, 5-10, 180; Tito Gamboa, Jr., C-DT, 6-0, 210; Ish Martinez, Sr., OL-DL, 5-9, 240; Sam Morrison, Sr., WR-DB, 5-9, 145.
• In 2010: The Longhorns expect their experience from last season to pay dividends in close games this year after having suffered two of its 2009 losses by a total of just four points. Turning those results around will leave Basalt in the hunt for a playoff berth.
CEDAREDGE BRUINS
• Coach: Brendan Milholland
• 2009 record: 2-8
• Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2002
• Strengths: Strong running game and experienced linebackers.
• Weaknesses: The Bruins need to shore up their passing attack and pass defense
• Players to watch: Miguel Barajas, Jr., RB-LB, 5-11, 232; Jacob Lawson, Sr., OL-DL, 5-10, 200; Michael Mackey, RB-LB, 6-1, 225; T.K. Ullery, Sr., QB-LB, 5-10, 175; Luke Wieben, Jr., RB-DE, 6-1, 205.
• In 2010: It is Milholland’s first season at the helm, and the Bruins should feature a solid rushing attack with Barajas and Mackey. Cedaredge will be strong up front defensively but will look to grow stronger in the secondary.
COAL RIDGE TITANS
• Coach: Scott Parker
• 2009 record: 2-8
• Returning starters: Nine offense, nine defense
• Last playoff appearance: Never qualified
• Strengths: Deep and talented running game
• Weaknesses: A defense that needs to become more physical and aggressive
• Players to watch: Brent Hazzard, Jr., RB-DB, 5-10, 165; Bryant Hernandez, Sr., G-LB, 6-0, 210; Cody Walls, Jr., RB-DB, 5-9, 160.
• In 2010: Hazzard and Walls are expected to form a solid tandem in the offensive backfield. With nine starters back on both sides of the ball, the Titans expect to improve on last year’s two-win season.
GRAND VALLEY CARDINALS
• Coach: Mike Johnson
• 2009 record: 7-3
• Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2008
• Strengths: Defensive front that is solid and experienced
• Weaknesses: Little depth at offensive skill positions
• Players to watch: Jerrod Busch, Sr., QB-FS, 5-9, 155; Daniel Kamanawa, OL-DL, 6-2, 270; Omar Melendres, Sr., CB-WR, 5-9, 150; Anthony Rhoads, Sr., RB-LB, 5-8, 175; Garrett Smith, Jr., OL-DL, 5-9, 230; David Witt, Jr., 5-9, 170.
• In 2010: The Cardinals finished strong in ’09 and hope to carry the momentum into a league title drive in 2010. Busch moves from receiver to quarterback to lead an offense paced by Witt, the team’s leading rusher last year as a sophomore. The return of four offensive lineman will make the Cardinals tough up front on both sides of the ball.
GUNNISON COWBOYS
• Coach: Bob Howard
• 2009 record: 6-4
• Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2007
• Strengths: Bigger and more physical than 2009
• Weaknesses: Lack of depth and marginal team speed
• Players to watch: Evan Ayers, Sr., TE-DE, 6-2, 185; Dan Cadwell, Sr., RB-LB, 5-11, 175; Juan Garcia, Sr., FB-LB, 6-0, 195; Nic Garcia, Sr., QB, 6-0, 165; Keanan Garnes, Sr., OL-DL, 6-0, 300; Ryan Roper, Sr., RB-LB, 5-8, 155.
• In 2010: The Cowboys hope to make a playoff push with Nic Garcia back under center after he missed most of last season with a knee injury. Gunnison is big up front and should have a solid defense.
OLATHE PIRATES
• Coach: Ryan Corn
• 2009 record: 11-1
• Returning starters: Two offense, two defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2009
• Strengths: Pride of winning tradition
• Weaknesses: Holes to fill on both sides of the ball
• Players to watch: Zach Coster, Sr., WR-FS, 6-3, 190; Kyle Piatt, Sr., LB, 6-0, 190; Sergio Salazar, Jr., RB-K, 5-10, 180; Keifer Wollert, Sr., QB, 6-2, 175.
• In 2010: The Pirates have only six seniors, but that group is itching for another state run after getting stung by a quarterfinal-round loss last year. Olathe should score points with Wollert running the offense, but otherwise the 2008 state champions could be bracing for a rebuilding year.
ROARING FORK RAMS
• Coach: Greg Holley
• 2009 record: 3-7
• Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense
• Last playoff appearance: 2006
• Strengths: Experienced players across the lineup
• Weaknesses: Lack of success has left Rams in need of confidence
• Players to watch: Zach Browning, Sr., RB-CB, 5-10, 160; Jason Denton, Sr., QB-LB, 6-1, 190; Phil Gomez, Jr., C-LB, 5-11, 185; Luke Leone, Sr., FB-DL, 5-11 185; Trenton Reeds, Jr., WR, 6-1, 165; Jake Strock-Loertscher, Sr., LB-T, 6-3, 220.
• In 2010: The Rams return almost everyone after losing only two seniors and expect to increase last year’s win total. Denton is an experienced quarterback and leads an offense that has impressive depth at the skill positions.
