| METRO EAST |
| ELIZABETH CARDINALS |
| Coach: Chris Cline, 13th year, 16th overall |
2012 record: 7-4 |
Returning starters: Eight offense, nine defense |
| Last playoff appearance: Lost 41-7 to Vista Ridge in 4A first round |
| Strengths: Experience, particularly at the skill positions |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience on offensive, defensive lines |
| Players to watch: Brody Oliver, Sr., QB, 6-2, 180; Chase Nicholas, Sr., LB/RB, 6-0, 160; Kevin Paredes, Sr., LB, 5-9, 165; Dallas Reins, Sr., OL/DL, 6-5, 255. |
| In 2013: Buoyed by the return of impact players such as quarterback Brody Oliver (1,927 total yards, 15 touchdowns in 2012) and two-way, all-state lineman Dallas Reins, the Cardinals may be one of the most experienced teams in 3A. Could that mean a title shot? |
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| ENGLEWOOD PIRATES |
| Coach: Jay Graves, fourth year, fourth overall |
2012 record: 2-8 |
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2010 |
| Strengths: Experience on the offensive line; battle-tested quarterback |
| Weaknesses: Depth; overall inexperience |
| Players to watch: Kenny Gelinas, Sr., DL/OL, 5-11, 245; Chris Guiterrez, Sr., WR/CB, 6-1, 175; Matt Hiibbschman, Sr., DL/OL, 5-9, 170; Isaiah Mestas, Sr., QB/S, 5-9, 155; Justin Wade, Sr., FB/LB, 5-10, 185. |
| In 2013: Turnovers were a problem for the Pirates last season as their offense sputtered, but with senior Isaiah Mestas returning as the starter with experience under his belt, Graves believes his team has what it takes to get back in the playoff race. |
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| FORT MORGAN MUSTANGS |
| Coach: Harrison Chisum, sixth year, eighth overall |
2012 record: 7-3 |
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2008 |
| Strengths: Leadership; overall balance |
| Weaknesses: Turnover at key positions |
| Players to watch: Jared Bohm, Sr., LB/RB, 5-11, 205; Toby McBride, So., FB/DE, 6-3, 220; Joey Schneider, Jr., QB, 6-2, 185. |
| In 2013: Fort Morgan lost only three games last season, with one of those defeats coming by a single point, but the Mustangs ended the year out of the playoffs. It’s why Chisum has made attention to detail the number one focus for a team with the talent to make another playoff push. |
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| SKYVIEW WOLVERINES |
| Coach: Bill Nelson, eighth year, 41st overall |
2012 record: 1-9 |
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2004 |
| Strengths: Depth at running back, line; improved passing game |
| Weaknesses: Team speed |
| Players to watch: Jacob Finning, Jr., OL/DL, 5-9, 195; Lonnie Hite, Sr., OL/LB, 6-0, 185; Javier Urbina, Sr., DB, 6-1, 165. |
| In 2013: Injuries depleted the Wolverines last season. If Nelson’s bunch can stay health, a defense that had trouble keeping teams out of the end zone in 2012 could be much improved. |
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| VISTA PEAK BISON |
| Coach: Pat Rock, second year, fourth overall |
2012 record: 3-7 |
Returning starters: Ten offense, 10 defense |
| Last playoff appearance: None |
| Strengths: Athleticism at the skill positions |
| Weaknesses: Depth, particularly on the offensive and defensive fronts |
| Players to watch: Noah Butler, Jr., QB/S, 6-0, 170; Tim Klem, Sr., LB, 5-10, 175; Isaiah Young, Jr., WR/S, 6-3, 200. |
| In 2013: Last season, Vista Peak’s first as a varsity program, the Bison didn’t have a senior on the roster and freshman played regularly. The plus side is almost everyone from the team returns, and the sophomores on this team are playing with more experience than most. |
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| WELD CENTRAL REBELS |
| Coach: Michael Brown, 10th year, 16th overall |
2012 record: 4-6 |
Returning starters: Six offense, eight defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2009 |
| Strengths: Experience of upperclassmen; leadership |
| Weaknesses: Depth on the line; injuries |
| Players to watch: Brandon Blaxton, Sr., QB/S, 6-2, 175; Tyler Nedelsick, Sr., RB/DB, 5-10, 160; Bryson Whistance, Sr., C/DE, 6-0, 230. |
| In 2013: The Rebels have taken their lumps the last two seasons with a team comprised largely of underclassmen, but with 15 seniors back this season, Weld Central could be prime to return to the playoffs for the first time in four years. Controlling the clock is the primary objective for Brown’s offense. |
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| METRO WEST LEAGUE |
| ALAMEDA PIRATES |
| Coach: Keith Gille |
2012 record: 2-8 |
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| Editor’s note: Coach did not return phone calls |
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| ARVADA BULLDOGS |
| Coach: Matt Cisneros, first year, first overall |
2012 record: 5-5 |
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 1983 |
| Strengths:Leadership of small senior class |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience; learning new offense |
| Players to watch: Elias De La Rosa, Jr., QB, 5-9, 160; Travin Harris, Sr., TE/DE, 6-1, 205; Jessy Jackson, Sr., WR/DB, 5-11, 165; Me’Shach Jackson, Sr., RB/LB, 5-9, 165; Tyler Landgraf, Sr., C/DL, 6-0, 250. |
| In 2013: Arvada hasn’t made the playoffs in 30 years, but a .500 season in 2012 has the Bulldogs believing they have a chance to make history. The question is whether they will have to undergo an adjustment period under first-year coach Matt Cisneros, who will be implementing a new offense. |
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| CONIFER LOBOS |
| Coach: Larry Fitzmaurice, 17th year, 27th overall |
2012 record: 10-3 |
Returning starters: Three offense, four defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 24-7 to Silver Creek in 3A semifinals |
| Strengths:Team speed |
| Weaknesses: Depth on the offensive, defensive lines |
| Players to watch: Nick Cenedella, Sr., C/DL, 6-1, 215; AJ Eleniewski, Sr., SS/TB, 5-6, 160; Matt McClintok, Sr., FB/LB, 5-10, 190; Brandon Payer Sr. MLB TE 6-2, 210. |
| In 2013: It’s hard to say a team that fell to eventual 3A champion Silver Creek in the state semifinals in 2012 could be hurting for experience, but with only seven total starters returning, new faces in new places will have to step up in order for the Lobos to make another deep postseason march. |
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| D’EVELYN JAGUARS |
| Coach: Jeremy Bennett, ninth year, 11th overall |
2012 record: 6-4 |
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2011 |
| Strengths:Team speed |
| Weaknesses: Limited experience |
| Players to watch: Steven Bowden, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 260; Ty Mcgee, Sr., WR, 6-5, 205; Marcus Vesley, Sr., LB, 6-3, 210; Trent Walker, Sr., WR, 6-2, 215. |
| In 2013: After narrowly missing a playoff berth a season ago, the Jaguars will rely heavily on stretching the field in order to get over the hump. It helps to have a pair of tall, fast receivers in Ty Mcgee and Trent Walker, a duo that will be charged with filling the shoes of 1,200-yard receiver Connor Skelton. |
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| EVERGREEN COUGARS |
| Coach: Rob Molholm, fifth year, fifth overall |
2012 record: 6-4 |
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2011 |
| Strengths: Experience; leadership of returning starters |
| Weaknesses: Handling a difficult schedule; depth |
| Players to watch: Jack Curtis, Sr., QB, 6-3, 180; Joe Danni, RB/LB, 5-11, 180; Ryan Hays, Sr., RB/DB, 5-10, 185; Greysen Lincoln, Jr., TE/DE, 6-2, 210; Kipp Nilson, Sr., RB/DB, 5-11, 170. |
| In 2013: The Cougars were just shy of a playoff bid in 2012, and with eight returning starters on both sides of the ball, including senior quarterback Jack Curtis, Molholm believes has what it takes to compete in what will be a very challenging Metro West League. |
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| LUTHERAN LIONS |
| Coach: Daryl Moe, fourth year, fifth overall |
2012 record: 7-3 |
Returning starters: Eight offense, nine defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2011 |
| Strengths: Experience; team speed; overall athleticism |
| Weaknesses: Depth |
| Players to watch: Josh Claussen, Jr., WR/LB, 6-4, 210; Brendan Edgerly, Jr., TE/LB/P, 6-5, 195; Alex McClure, Sr., OL/DL, 6-5, 260; Chance Morelock, Sr., 6-6, 250 OL/DL; Josh Murphy, Sr., 6-3, 190, WR/S; Alex Nemmers, Jr., WR/DB, 6-2, 180; Darian Perez, Sr., WR/DB, 5-8, 155; Henry Waite, Sr., 5-11, 200, RB/LB; James Willis, Jr., QB/DB, 6-1, 205. |
| In 2013: The only thing missing from a strong first season in 3A for Lutheran in 2012 was a playoff berth, and the Lions were mighty close, coming within just five points of a 9-1 record. With athletic quarterback James Willis and top receiver Josh Clausen, a 6-foot-4 target who had nearly 1,000 yards receiving last season, Lutheran should be a threat to make some noise in the postseason. |
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| SUMMIT TIGERS |
| Coach: Dylan Hollingsworth, ninth year, ninth overall |
2012 record: 2-8 |
Returning starters: four offense, four defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2009 |
| Strengths: Offensive, defensive lines; strong work ethic |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience (only seven seniors); depth |
| Players to watch: Nick Cousino, Sr., OL/DL, 5-9, 173; Luke Millisor, Sr., OL/DL, 5-9, 181; Duncan Roberts, Sr., FB/DL, 5-11, 218; Chris Vangsnes, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 242. |
| In 2013: If Summit is to return to the postseason for the first time since 2009, the Tigers will need big performances out of members of its experienced offensive line, including 242-pound senior Chris Vangsnes. |
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| NORTHERN |
| CENTAURUS WARRIORS |
| Coach: Chad Senseney, 10th year, 10th overall |
2012 record: 2-8 |
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2010 |
| Strengths: Deeper on the front lines; returning running back |
| Weaknesses: Overall lack of depth |
| Players to watch: Matt Buchler, Sr., RB, 5-4, 140; Mike Devries, Jr., OL/DL, 6-3, 260; John Howard, Sr., QB, 5-11, 165. |
| In 2013: During a rough season in 2012, Centarus was forced to play a large number of underclassmen. That meant the Warriors had to take some lumps, but that experience could pay dividends this year as they aim to break a skid of two straight losing seasons. |
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| DENVER NORTH VIKINGS |
| Coach: Al Rodriguez, third year, third year overall |
2012 record: 1-9 |
Returning starters: 10 offense, 10 defense |
| Strengths: Senior leadership; work ethic |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience at quarterback, offensive line |
| Players to watch: Kevin Castillo, Sr., 5-8, S, 150; Cesar Escobedo, Sr., S, 5-8, 160; Simeon Freeland, Jr., KR/WR/CB, 5-8, 150; Daniel Ramirez, Sr., RB, 5-10, 220; David Workman, Sr., QB, 6-1, 180. |
| In 2013: The Vikings haven’t had a group of senior leaders like this one in Rodriguez’s tenure. The third-year coach is quick to laud the work ethic of a unit that is nearing a collective 3.5 GPA in the classroom. Whether similar results can be achieved on the field will depend heavily on the development of a young offensive line. |
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| ERIE TIGERS |
| Coach: Larry Gartrell, 18th year, 23rd overall |
2012 record: 7-4 |
Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 42-0 to Rifle in 3A first round |
| Strengths: Skill position players |
| Weaknesses: Must replace top linemen; depth |
| Players to watch: Christian Mickey, Sr., RB, 5-11, 185; Joe Ramey, Sr., RB, 5-10, 175; Jesse Tallman, Sr., OL, 6-3, 250; Triston Berringer, Jr., LB/FB, 6-0, 185. |
| In 2013: For some teams, having six running backs may seem like too crowded a backfield. But the way Erie swaps players in and out in different packages, keeping a fresh line of backs involved is key to the Tigers’ hopes of securing another playoff berth. |
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| FREDERICK WARRIORS |
| Coach: Thad Lear, 16th year, 16th overall |
2012 record: 8-3 |
Returning starters: Five offense, three defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 33-8 to Eagle Valley in 3A first round |
| Strengths: Depth; experience |
| Weaknesses: Difficult non-conference schedule |
| Players to watch: Michael Broz, Sr., QB/DB, 6-1, 185; Austin King, Sr., DL, 6-1, 260; Xavier Lindburg, Sr., LB/RB, 5-10, 180; Joe Lopez, Sr., DL, 6-2, 285. |
| In 2013: The Warriors are coming off three straight trips to the postseason, building what Lear calls “our new tradition of success.” Frederick will turn to an experienced group of seniors to keep that tradition going, including massive defensive linemen Austin King and Joe Lopez. |
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| HOLY FAMILY TIGERS |
| Coach: Michael Gabriel, sixth year, sixth year overall |
2012 record: 8-3 |
Returning starters: Seven offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 49-28 to Pueblo East in 3A first round |
| Strengths: Maturity; senior leadership |
| Weaknesses: Depth |
| Players to watch: Tyler Dudden, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 255; Matt Erb, Sr., WR/DE, 5-11, 180; Nicola Lonardo, Sr., OL/DL, 5-10, 235; David Sommers, Sr., QB/DB, 6-3, 195. |
| In 2013: Last season Gabriel could always count on his team, one that prides itself on conditioning, to finish strong. But in their three losses, including a defeat at the hands of Pueblo East in the first round of the playoffs, the Tigers dug deep holes. If this team can come out of the gates strong each week, it could have the talent to make a deep postseason run. |
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| THOMAS JEFFERSON SPARTANS |
| Coach: Jose Escobedo, first year, first overall |
2012 record: 4-6 |
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2009 |
| Strengths: Work ethic, offensive, defensive lines |
| Weaknesses: Secondary, inexperience |
| Players to watch: Ron Seiber, Sr., C/LB, 5-10, 235; Torrey Evans, Sr., WR/DB 6-1, 185; Obed Munoz, Jr., WR/DB, 5-5, 150; Taden Blaise, Fr., QB, 6-1, 180. |
| In 2013: After almost 15 years as an assistant, Escobedo is eager for his chance to take the reins of a young, rebuilding Thomas Jefferson squad. Both Escobedo and athletic director Andrew Skari have raved about freshman starting quarterback Taden Blaise. |
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| SOUTH CENTRAL LEAGUE |
| CORONADO COUGARS |
| Coach: Bob Lizarraga, fourth year, fourth overall |
2012 record: 5-5 |
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| Last playoff appearance: 1999 |
| Strengths: Execution of fundamentals; assignment sound |
| Weaknesses: Improve tackling |
| Players to watch: Isaiah Duvall, Jr., RB/DB, 6-2, 185; Austin Micci, Jr., RB/S, 5-7, 170; Antwan Outlaw, Sr., WR/CB, 6-0, 180; Devon Baker, Jr., S/WR, 5-7, 165; Sam Smith, Sr., LB/TE 6-1, 215. |
| In 2013: It’s not a goal they will be able to achieve every time, but the Cougars defense has set its sights on creating three-and-outs on every possession. They came close during a 43-0 “zero week” win against Pueblo Central. Similar defensive intensity going forward could help Coronado break a drought of almost 15 seasons without a postseason appearance. |
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| DISCOVERY CANYON THUNDER |
| Coach: Shawn Mitchell |
2012 record: 9-2 |
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| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 24-14 to Pueblo Central in 3A first round |
| Editor’s note: Coach did not return phone calls |
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| LEWIS-PALMER RANGERS |
| Coach: Tony Ramunno, 25th year, 25th overall |
2012 record: 6-4 |
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2011 |
| Strengths: Experienced defense; improved run game |
| Weaknesses: Youth on offensive line, at quarterback |
| Players to watch: Chad Marshall, Sr., LB/RB 5-10, 176; Andrew Brown, Sr., OL/DL, 6-6, 230; Jason Chirenza, Sr., CB/QB, 5-10, 175; Max Wyman, Sr., DL, 5-11, 200; Richard Ito, Sr., RB/LB, 6-0, 175; Matt Brines, Sr., RB/LB, 6-0, 188. |
| In 2013: In the age of high-speed, spread offenses, Ramunno believes there is still room in the game for a down-your-throat rushing attack. The Rangers will rely on such an offensive attack this season as the break in a pair of new quarterbacks. |
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| MITCHELL MARAUDERS |
| Coach: Archie Malloy |
2012 record: 3-7 |
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| Editor’s note: Coach did not return phone calls |
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| WOODLAND PARK PANTHERS |
| Coach: Joe Roskam, third season, 14th overall |
2012 record: 3-7 |
Returning starters: Nine offense, seven defense |
| Strengths: Returning starters; experience; quarterback |
| Weaknesses: Depth |
| Players to watch: Cecil Cox, So., QB, 5-11, 170; Justin Marsala, Sr., OL, 5-10, 205; Joe Pannozzo, Sr., OL/DL, 6-3, 240; Weston Shutts, Sr., RB/LB, 5-9, 175. |
| In 2013: The Panthers return their top three rushers, their top receiver and three starting offensive linemen from a season ago, so they should have the talent to be competitive in what has become a highly challenging league. Key for Woodland Park will be reducing the number of turnovers that proved costly in 2012. |
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| SOUTHERN |
| CLASSICAL ACADEMY TITANS |
| Coach: David Bervig, second year, second year overall |
2012 record: 9-2 |
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 21-0 to Delta in 3A first round |
| Strengths: Quickness; talent at skill positions |
| Weaknesses: Lack of size on offensive line |
| Players to watch: Josh Dillon, Sr., C/LB, 6-0, 220; Andrew Register, Sr., RB, 5-8, 175; Jantzen Ryals, Sr., QB, 6-0, 180; Peter Troupe, Jr., WR/S 5-7, 140. |
| In 2013: With only one player on the offensive line who weighs more than 200 pounds, the Titans will be outsized in the trenches in most games. Fortunately for Bervig, a bevy of talented skill players – including Register, a near 1,000-yard rusher in 2012 – could offset lack of pounds up front and keep the Titans in line for another playoff berth. |
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| HARRISON PANTHERS |
| Coach: Al Melo, seventh year, 11th year overall |
2012 record: 1-9 |
Returning starters: Six offense, eight defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2006 |
| Strengths: Team speed; running game |
| Weaknesses: Depth |
| Players to watch: Demetrius Graves, Sr., RB/DE, 6-0, 200; Darius Graves, Sr., DE, 6-2, 215; Jason Sims, Sr., DT, 6-1, 205; Todd Wall, Sr., QB, 6-1, 190. |
| In 2013: The Panthers have the experience to be competitive, even on a starting offensive line that doesn’t include a senior, but they must stay healthy in order to reverse the struggles of a year ago. |
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| PUEBLO CENTRAL WILDCATS |
| Coach: Zach Odell, fourth year, 14th year |
2012 record: 8-4 |
Returning starters: Five offense, three defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 27-12 to Silver Creek in 3A quarterfinals |
| Strengths: Experienced quarterback, running back |
| Weaknesses: Inexperienced offensive line; young defense |
| Players to watch: Zach Andrews, Sr., QB/DB, 6-4, 195; Derrick Martinez, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 240; Chris Ortiz, Jr., FB/LB, 5-7, 205; Michael Ranson, So., ATH, 6-2, 185; Niko Valdez, Jr., RB/LB, 5-8, 190. |
| In 2013: Pueblo Central started 0-2 in 2012. By the time the playoffs rolled around, Odell thought his team was playing well enough to win it all. The Wildcats fell to eventual state champion Silver Creek in the quarterfinals, but with a strong senior quarterback in Zach Andrews leading the charge, this team has the confidence it can make another deep run. |
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| PUEBLO COUNTY HORNETS |
| Coach: Scott Egan, first year, first overall |
2012 record: 5-5 |
Returning starters: Eight offense, seven defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2009 |
| Strengths: Offense; work ethic |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience |
| Players to watch: Troy Keys, Sr., WR, 6-2, 170; Lane Lanier, Sr., RB, 5-10, 170; John Lane, Sr., OL, 6-2, 220; Keenan Willits, Sr., QB, 6-1, 185. |
| In 2013: Pueblo County has a new coach in Egan, who spent four years as an assistant at the school. He is implementing new systems on the fly, but he has a few key senior returners to help ease the transition, including Lane Lanier, who rushed for nearly 1,200 yards last season. |
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| PUEBLO EAST EAGLES |
| Coach: David Ramirez |
2012 record: 10-3 |
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| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 56-6 to Rifle in 3A semifinals |
| Editor’s note: Coach did not return phone calls |
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| SIERRA STALLIONS |
| Coach: Dean Huffman, second year, 10th overall |
2012 record: 2-8 |
Returning starters: Three offense, four defense |
| Strengths: Dedication; strength |
| Weaknesses: Depth; inexperience |
| Players to watch: Malik Spencer, Sr., RB, 5-7, 140; Eddie Knolles, Sr., DT/OL 6-2, 240; Will Nelson, Jr., QB/WR/DB, 6-3, 170. |
| In 2013: Finding a win early in the schedule could be paramount for a young team in search of confidence, but it won’t be easy with Mesa Ridge, a Class 4A semifinalist in 2012, on the docket early in the season. |
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| TRI-VALLEY LEAGUE |
| BERTHOUD SPARTANS |
| Coach: Dan McGinn, 13th year, 13th overall |
2012 record: 1-9 |
Returning starters: Five offense, seven defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2009 |
| Strengths: Work ethic; desire to improve |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience; youth |
| Players to watch: Nick Dietz, Sr., RB/WR/DB, 6-1, 175; Tyler Parker, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 195; Caleb Price, Sr., RB/DB, 5-9, 175; Nate Ryken, Sr., RB/DE, 6-1, 225. |
| In 2013: McGinn says the Spartans have “washed our hands” of a dismal 2012 season and he has been impressed with his team’s renewed sense of focus. A number of players switched positions in the offseason, so attention to detail will be crucial for this young squad. |
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| MEAD MAVERICKS |
| Coach: Jason Klatt, second year, 14th year overall |
2012 record: 3-7 |
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: None |
| Strengths: Strong senior leadership; returning talent at skill positions |
| Weaknesses: Team depth; inexperience |
| Players to watch: Kyle Couch, Sr., LB/RB/TE, 6-1, 190; Patrick Hall, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 245; Thomas Jenkins, Sr., RB/DB, 5-9, 150; Griffin Nelson, Sr., QB, 6-3, 185. |
| In 2013: When Klatt took over at Mead last season, he stressed to his young team not to spend time too much time glaring at the scoreboard, to instead “focus on the process.” But that the scoreboard ultimately revealed Mead’s first-ever Tri-Valley League win a season ago is reason to believe the Mavericks, heading into just their fourth season as a program, could be on the verge of being consistently competitive. |
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| NORTHRIDGE GRIZZLIES |
| Coach: Jeff Fulton, 14th year, 14th overall |
2012 record: 8-3 |
Returning starters: Three offense, six defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 38-31 to Conifer in 3A first round |
| Strengths: Offensive skill players |
| Weaknesses: The trenches |
| Players to watch: Dillon Dreher, Sr., LB/RB, 5-10, 195; Jacob Lobato, Sr., S/WR, 6-0, 170; Jaedon Mills, Sr., TE/DE, 5-10, 170; Jesse Unruh, Jr., OL/DL 6-2, 240, Jimmy Villanueva, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 240. |
| In 2013: When Fulton began the Northridge football program 14 years ago, he quipped that his team was “the worst in North America.” Times are much better now with the Grizzlies coming off a 2012 season in which they won as many games (eight) as they had in the previous three years combined. With a wealth of talented playmakers on offense, that total could climb higher this season. |
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| ROOSEVELT ROUGHRIDERS |
| Coach: Noland Eastin, third year, 15th year overall |
2012 record: 7-5 |
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 48-34 to Rifle in 3A quarterfinals |
| Strengths: Size, experience on the offensive, defense fronts; strength; toughness |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience at key positions |
| Players to watch: Nathan Putallaz, Jr., OL, 6-3, 280; Randy Molinar, Sr., RB, 5-10, 170; Kane Kratz, Sr., QB, 5-9, 170; Spencer Roberts, Sr., LB, 5-11, 225. |
| In 2013: Roosevelt was written off by plenty of outsiders last season after starting the season 1-4. But the Roughriders won six out of their last seven games to march all the way to the 3A quarterfinals. With experience, size and strength on the offensive line this season, Eastin believes his team is ready to return to the postseason. |
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| SILVER CREEK RAPTORS |
| Coach: Mike Apodaca, 11th year, 14th overall |
2012 record: 12-2 |
Returning starters: Nine offense, seven defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, won 32-15 over Rifle in 3A championship |
| Strengths: Experience; skill returners; linebackers, defensive line |
| Weaknesses: Must fill holes left by talented players |
| Players to watch: Andre Apodaca, Sr., LB, 6-1, 195; Levi Cecil, Sr., OL, 6-4, 255; Isaac Miller, Sr., OL, 6-7, 235; Ben Sjobakken, Sr., QB, 6-2, 150. |
| In 2013: You won’t see Apodaca penciling his defending champions in for a third straight trip to the state title game. But with nearly every skill starter back for another season, along with a pair of all-state linemen, it’s hard not to think the Raptors have a great shot at a repeat. |
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| SKYLINE FALCONS |
| Coach: Kevin Rice, seventh year, ninth overall |
2012 record: 5-5 |
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense |
| Last playoff appearance:2001 |
| Strengths: Senior class; depth at skill positions; confidence |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience on offensive, defensive line |
| Players to watch: Garret Angstead, Sr., QB, 5-10, 170; Joe Dixon, Jr., DT, 6-0, 200; Austin Edson, Sr., OT, 6-4, 310; Jordan McEntee, Sr., LB, 5-11, 220. |
| In 2013: The Falcons, returning seven starters on both sides of the ball, are brimming with confidence after a .500 season that included a victory over state champion Silver Creek. Talented dual-threat quarterback Garret Angstead could be the one to lead Skyline to its first playoff berth in more than a decade. |
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| WESTERN SLOPE LEAGUE |
| BATTLE MOUNTAIN HUSKIES |
| Coach: Steven Greve, second year, second overall |
2012 record: 0-10 |
Returning starters: Eight offense, eight defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2011 |
| Strengths: Aggressiveness; solid tackling; quickness |
| Weaknesses: Depth; youth |
| Players to watch: Rio Garton, Sr., RB/WR/CB, 5-11, 170; Chase Keep, So., K/P, 6-0, 165; Ryder Olle, Jr., LB/FB, 5-8, 160; Demitrious Parrish, So., QB/KR/WR, 5-9, 139; Alex Ramirez, Sr., OL/DL, 5-11, 190; John Rulon, Jr., LB/WR, 6-2, 185; Corey Steinke, Sr., FB/LB, 5-10, 175. |
| In 2013: Greve saw more players taking part in summer workouts and was impressed with the intensity taking place at various position battles during fall practice. Overall, he is pleased with how many more players are buying into the culture he is trying to institute. The next step for the young Huskies is developing confidence they can win. |
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| DELTA PANTHERS |
| Coach: Ben Johnson, fifth season, 20th overall |
2012 record: 8-4 |
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 35-24 to Pueblo East in the 3A quarterfinals |
| Strengths: Linebacker depth and talent |
| Weaknesses: Depth at offensive, defensive line |
| Players to watch: Easton Byers, Jr., RB, 5-10, 190; Jasiel Garcia, Sr., OL/DL, 5-7, 250; Marcus Garcia, Jr., OL, 6-4, 270; Saul Sanchez, Sr., DB, 6-0, 170; Tyler Sandoval, Sr., RB/LB, 6-0, 195; Cordell Stroud, Sr., LB, 6-3, 190. |
| In 2013: Delta, running out of a base 3-5 defense, relies heavily on its linebackers. That’s good news for the Panthers, who return a number of talented players at the position, including seniors Tyler Sandoval and Cordell Stroud. Johnson could have his team primed for a deep postseason run. |
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| EAGLE VALLEY DEVILS |
| Coach: John Ramunno, 32nd year, 32nd overall |
2012 record: 8-4 |
Returning starters: Two offense, three defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 16-10 to Conifer in 3A quarterfinals |
| Strengths: Depth at running back |
| Weaknesses: Inexperience at various positions |
| Players to watch:Victor Avila, Sr., RB/LB, 5-10, 185; Joe Felix, Sr., OL/DL, 6-1, 220; Orin Reichardt, Sr., QB/DB, 5-9, 175; Riley Rowles, Jr., RB/LB, 5-11, 175. |
| In 2013: The Devils must replace their top passer, top receiver and top three rushers from last season, when they made the playoffs for the first time since 2005. Upperclassmen Victor Avila and Riley Rowles should shoulder a heavy load on offense. |
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| GLENWOOD SPRINGS |
| Coach: Rocky Whitworth |
2012 record: 5-5 |
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| Last playoff appearance: 2010 |
| Editor’s note: Coach did not return phone calls |
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| MOFFAT COUNTY BULLDOGS |
| Coach: Kip Hafey, 12th season, 12th overall |
2012 record: 5-5 |
Returning starters: One offense, two defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2004 |
| Strengths: Attitude, work ethic |
| Weaknesses: Depth; inexperience |
| Players to watch: Joe Camilletti, Jr., WR/LB, 6-0, 160; Sheldon Greenwood, Sr., OL/DL, 6-0, 210; Matt Hamilton, Jr., QB/FS, 6-3, 170; Brayden Peterson, Sr., WR/LB, 5-10, 150; Keith Smith, Jr., OL/DL, 6-0, 225. |
| In 2013: With one of the smallest annual enrollments among 3A schools, depth has always been a concern for Moffat County. Still, that didn’t stop the Bulldogs from nearly crashing the playoff party last season. It will be up to a new cast of characters this year, with only three total starters returning. |
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| PALISADE BULLDOGS |
| Coach: Joe Ramunno, 12th year, 28th overall |
2012 record: 8-3 |
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 21-15 to Roosevelt in 3A first round |
| Strengths: Toughness; work ethic |
| Weaknesses: Depth |
| Players to watch: Levi Holgen, Sr., QB/LB; Dalton Hannigan, Sr., RB/FS; Tass Crow, Sr., CB/WR; Jack Mallard, Sr., LB/TE; Zach Marango, Sr., OL/DL; Braxton Stewart, Sr., OL/DE. |
| In 2013: Ramunno led Palisade to four straight championships in the 90s, guiding groups of hard-working, blue-collar players to great heights before departing to coach college football. Can he achieve similar results at the same place almost two decades later? |
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| RIFLE BEARS |
| Coach: Damon Wells, seventh year, seventh overall |
2012 record: 13-1 |
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2012, lost 32-15 to Silver Creek in 3A championship |
| Strengths: Experience |
| Weaknesses: Depth |
| Players to watch: Kellin Leigh, Sr., RB/DB, 5-7, 151; Javier Nunez, Sr., LB/RB, 6-0, 202; Brock Clark, Jr., LB/RB, 5-11, 196; Bailey Hoffmeister, Sr., DB/RB, 5-11, 173; Tanner Quick, Sr., TE/DE, 6-7, 230; Austin Shepherd, Jr., LB/G, 5-10, 185; Zack Bare, Sr., G/DE 6-0, 180. |
| In 2013: Wells knows it might sound cliché, but he swears it’s true: One day after his team lost to Silver Creek in the 3A championship game last season, he showed up to his team’s facility to see players back in the weight room. After three empty trips to the state title game in the last nine years, could this be the season the Bears finally lift the trophy? |
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| STEAMBOAT SPRINGS SAILORS |
| Coach: Lonn Clementson, fourth year, fourth year |
2012 record: 4-6 |
Returning starters: Three offense, four defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2009 |
| Strengths: Senior leadership; focus |
| Weaknesses: Overall youth |
| Players to watch: Joe Deline, So., 5-10, 166; Mitch McCannon, Jr., RB, 5-8, 150; Cole Sittig, Sr., OL 6-2, 240; Charles Toye, Sr., LB, 6-1, 175; Jimmy Welezheimer, Sr., DB/WR, 5-6, 135; Brandon Yeager, Sr., OL, 6-1, 200. |
| In 2013: Now in his fourth season as coach at Steamboat Springs, Clementson has the luxury of coaching a team with players who are well-versed in the program’s culture and expectations. If the Sailors can develop some young playmakers on offense, this team could be angling for a playoff berth. |
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| MONTEZUMA-CORTEZ PANTHERS |
| Coach: Casey Coulter, second year, third overall |
2012 record: 1-9 |
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense |
| Last playoff appearance: 2000 |
| Strengths: Cohesiveness; improvement made over the summer |
| Weaknesses: Depth; youth |
| Players to watch: Ryan Gurney, So., WR/S, 5-7, 130; Randy Haley, Jr., RB/LB, 6-2, 180; Jon Walck, Jr., QB/LB, 6-2, 195. |
| In 2013: A rebuilding project doesn’t happen overnight, and though the Panthers should be much improved in Coulter’s second season at the helm, a roster with few seniors could mean more growing pains. |
