By CatFan This is the 6th annual CatFan D1 Preseason preview. In the previous 5 years, the state champion has been correctly identified in August (2001, 2002, 2004), while the crystal ball was cloudy in 2003 and 2005. A 60% success ratio sounds pretty good, but the glass half empty crowd could say I’ve missed 2 of the last 3 years. Will this be the 4th year out of 6 that correctly predicts the state champion? Who knows, but unlike last year when I really struggled with the prediction, this year’s selection of the #1 team was much easier for me. In announcing my #1 team, I kind of feel like The Fonz in an episode of Happy Days where he struggled to say that he was wrong. Naming the St Edward Eagles as the #1 team in the state is a consensus choice, but it still doesn’t easily roll off the lips of an Ignatius alunmi. However, the Eagles have been building a solid program for most of the 2000s and have now supplanted St Ignatius as the best football program in the Cleveland area. The only thing missing from the coronation ceremony is the D1 state champion trophy and the Eagles should claim their first football championship in 2006. As in most years, the strength in the state of Ohio is concentrated in Region 1 and Region 4 and this year is no exception. The strength of Region 2 tends to heavily depend on Canton McKinley and Massillon and both teams should have excellent clubs this years as evidenced by their #5 and #6 rankings, respectively. However, Region 2 looks to be deeper than in recent years as #8 Elyria, Findlay and Toledo St John should all field highly competitive squads. Given population trends and growth in the city of Columbus as compared to the sluggish economies in Cleveland and Cincinnati, you would expect Columbus to eventually become more of a football power in D1. However, this will not be the case this year as the power in D1 football in OH remains in NEO and SWO. The lack of a large parochial school and the fact that the growing public schools district in Columbus split their high cycles are some of the reasons that Columbus HS football is not as competitive as expected. This is a benefit to the winner of Region 4 as advancing to the state title game should prove easier than for the R1 or R2 champion. Thanks to the many people that helped me with heights/weights and 40 times of the players that will appear in this preview. Information for this preview was also obtained through discussions with coaches, tape review, personal observations, various HS websites, scout.com, rivals.com, various newspapers, the Sporting News, PrepNation and Ohio High magazine. Any mistakes in this preview are my responsibility. These forecasts are to be used for informational purposes only, no wagering please. Without any further delay, here is the CatFan 2006 D1 Preseason Preview: THE FAVORITES 1) Lakewood St Edward 2005 record 12-1, state semifinals Key Losses: OL Joe Thomas, DE John Dvoroznak, OL Frank Ruggiero, QB Brandon Frohnapple Key Games: 9/9 Cincinnati St Xavier, 9/16 Springdale (AR) – Herbstreit Challenge, 10/14 @ St. Ignatius, In recent years, it seems St Edward has surprised on the upside when expectations were lower and disappointed somewhat when expectations were high. This year, there is no question that hopes are high for the Eagles to claim their first football title in school history as 12 starters return from last year’s state semifinal team. Coach Gibbons and St Edward are blessed with an abundance of D1 talent, but also possess a nice group of hard-nosed, dedicated HS athletes. On the offensive side of the ball, expect a heavy dose of Frankie Edmonds (5’8 185#). Last year, the mercurial Edmonds accounted for nearly 2,500 all purpose yards and 23 TDs. A late season injury to Edmonds may have kept the Eagles from getting to the state title game in 2005. While other RBs in Ohio will be more heavily recruited than Edmonds, I doubt many will match the numbers Edmonds will record if he can stay healthy all year and Edmonds currently has offers from 5 MAC schools. To win the state title, the Eagles need a healthy Frankie Edmonds in November, so I would expect to see Paul Adler (5’9 185#) and super sophomore Dominique Goodwin (5’8 180#) take some of the load from Edmonds. Offensive line has been a strength at St Edward in recent years and this year’s squad is not as experienced, but possess very good size. Tom Lavisky (6’3 290#), Steve Thomas (6’1 290#), Ben Kuhar (6’2 265#), Kevin Romaniuk (6’ 290) and Matt Butkowski (6’ 285) provide plenty of beef along the front line and the diminutive Edmonds will be hard to pick up behind such a large offensive line. Junior Alex Sterba (6’3 210#) takes over the duties at QB. Sterba has some nice targets in WRs Kyle Hubbard, Anthony Capasso (5’8 175#) and TE Bob Medve (6’2 220#). The 6’4 225# Hubbard runs a 4.6 40 and presents matchup problems for most defensive backs. Last year, Hubbard caught 40 balls for over 500 yards and currently has collegiate offers from Pittsburgh, Kentucky and a number of MAC schools. Sophomore WR/DB Willie Seawright (5’10 160#) is also talented enough that he could see the field this year. It is going to be very difficult to score on St Edward as the defensive group is an experienced, talented group with excellent team speed. If there is a weakness to this group, it may be lack of size. The leader of this group will be 3-year starter S Nate Oliver (6’ 195#). Oliver recorded 70 tackles with 2 INTs and 2 forced fumbles. Oliver also saw time last year at RB when Edmonds was injured and also played special teams. Oliver has verbally committed to play his college ball at Ohio State. LB/S Diaunte Morrow (6’ 190#) also returns for the Eagles after recording 75 tackles and 8 sacks in 2006. Morrow boasts offers from Big 10 schools such as Indiana, Iowa, Illinois and Wisconsin. Word from Eagle camp is that Morrow may move from LB to team with Oliver at safety in 2006. Pity the WR that goes over the middle against the Eagles as both Morrow and Oliver really bring the wood. DT Debo Elias (5’9 250#) will anchor the defensive line and typifies the effort you want to see from a HS player. Elias also possesses great strength and tenacity. Justin Staples (6’3 220#) and Mike Mewhinney (5’10 220#) join Elias on the DL. LB Jeff Lucas (6’3 225#) has an offer from Louisiana Tech and registered 80 tackles and 2 sacks last season and leads a talented LB group that includes junior phenom Mike Spooner (6’2 220#) and Corey Skoczen (6’1 215#). Staples could also stand up and play some LB if the Eagles go to a 3-4 look. Joe Davis (5’10 180#) and Branden Williams (5’9 175)) join Morrow and Oliver in the secondary. The kicking game is in excellent shape as Ben Rios (6’1 215) has a very strong leg. Things look good at 13500 Detroit Road. Barring a major collapse, which has happened at key times in important games in recent history (WGH 2002, Massillon 2005), a wrestling trophy may need to be moved to make way for the Eagles’ 1st football title in school history. Key Questions · Will Edmonds stay healthy? · Can Sterba win a game for the Eagles if needed? · Will the Eagles close out tight games they should win? Stumbling Block Game @ Cleveland St Ignatius – There are far better teams than the Wildcats on the Eagle schedule and this group of Eagles have manhandled the Wildcats at the lower levels, but you never know what could happen in the Holy War. 2) Cleveland Glenville Academic Campus 2005 record 12-1, state quarterfinals Key Losses – WR/DB Ray Small, DE/TE Robert Rose, OL Bryant Browning, WR Daven Jones, QB Arvell Nelson Key Games – 8/26 Mentor (Cleveland Charity game), 9/2 @Warren Harding, 9/8 @Strongsville This was supposed to be somewhat of a rebuilding year for the Tarblooders. However, the Glenville cupboard was quickly refilled in the offseason with at least 14 transfers. While last year’s Glenville team had more top notch talent at the skill level positions, this team looks better prepared to win in November as Glenville possesses very good size on both sides of the ball. This team could struggle early as all the new faces are assimilated into a cohesive unit by Coach Ginn, but the Tarblooders look like the only team that can realistically prevent St Edward from advancing out of Region 1. Once again, Glenville is just loaded with an abundance of D1 talent and the most recent issue of Ohio High magazine reads like a homage to Glenville’s roster. A sampling of Tarblooder talent includes: LB/S Jermale Hines (6’ 200# 4.55) Hines moved up to Cleveland from Georgia last year and immediately made a major impact with 97 tackles, eight sacks, three interceptions, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Hines is the kind of player that jumps out at you when you watch a game and he always seems to be around the football. Hines is such a gifted athlete that he could probably be a D1 player in basketball and will start at QB position as he runs the option well and is a bruising runner himself. Hines has assembled an impressive offer list to date including Michigan, West Virginia, Purdue, Wisconsin and Louisville. WR/DB Kyle Jefferson (6’4 175# 4.43) Jefferson is a mystery wrapped in an enigma. He possesses the physical talent to be a Top 50 talent in the nation. His size creates problems for any defensive back and his speed is outstanding for a big WR as evidenced by Jefferson’s 2nd place finish in the 400 meters at the state track meet. However, that physical ability has not yet translated to football production as Jefferson only caught 15 balls last season for 300 yards and 4 TDs. Some of that was due to the arsenal of D1 talent in front of him last year, but Jefferson often seems lost out on the football field. Jefferson will also handle PK duties for the Tarblooders this year. College coaches do recognize the immense upside and schools such as Wisconsin, Purdue, Minnesota, Illinois and Indiana have offered scholarships to date. DE/OL Eric Thomas (6’5 250# 4.75) Eric Thomas recently transferred from Benedictine to Glenville and is a major addition for the Tarblooders. The first thing you notice about Thomas is his impressive body, he does not look like a kid that weighs 250# as he moves very well. There have been some questions about his work ethic and he can disappear in games for long periods of time, but Thomas has upper level Big 10 skills if he ever applies himself consistently. At Benedictine in 2005 Thomas registered 72 tackles and 13 sacks en route to being named first team All State in Division 3. Thomas has earned scholarship offers from Michigan St, West Virginia, Cincinnati, Indiana and Marshall on the Ginn Bus Tour. QB/RB/S Chaz Jones (5’11 210# 4.5) Chaz Jones began his high school career at St Ignatius, transferred to Cleveland Heights after his freshman season and will play his final season of HS football at Glenville. The versatile Jones passed for 937 yards and 8 TDs last season at Cleveland Heights while also rushing for 863 yards and 9 TDs. Jones status as a dual threat QB will make the Glenville offense a potent one and enable the Tarblooders to have a better chance of advancing in the playoffs when the weather turns nasty in November. Jones is a big, physical kid that likes contact and could be the featured RB if Hines handles the QB duties.. He is generating interest from schools such as Tennessee, Michigan and Purdue. DE/LB Lebron Daniel (6’1 225# 4.8) Daniel transferred from Warrensville Heights to Glenville in the offseason and should be a nice addition to the Tarblooder defense. Daniel registered over 100 tackles with 13 sacks last season at Warrensville. To date, Daniel boasts offers from Duke, Akron and Miami (OH). OL Shawntell Rowell (6’4 350#) The junior Rowell also transferred to Glenville from Warrensville Heights. Rowell can be an upper level Big 10 player if keeps his weight under control but his size will be important for Glenville at the HS level. LB/FB Winston Etheridge (6’2 230#) A junior, Winston transferred to Glenville from VASJ and could be the next big time recruit for Coach Ginn. Winston moves very well for a big man and is a punishing tackler. LB Bruce Davis (5’10 230# 4.9) Davis comes to Glenville for his senior season after 3 years at Benedictine and will likely play his college football in the MAC. DB Otis Merrill (5’11 185#) – Cincinnati has offered a scholarship to make Otis their man. DT/OL Eric Simmons (6’3 275#) Another nice looking junior offensive lineman for the Tarblooders. DT Dawawn Whitner (6’2 235#) Donte’s kid brother is a junior and does not possess NFL talent, but will be an effective DT at the HS level. Shows sound technique OL Marcus Hall (6’5 285) Sophomore, great frame, likely a Top 10 player in his class in a few years. Other players of note include RB Curtis Hale who transferred from Warrensville, junior WR Torreal Gisbon, WR Cordale Scott, OL Larris Harris - a Warrensville transfer, junior DB Borchard Hines, Junior William Lowe – a Collinwood transfer and sophomore DE Xavier Hines, who definitely passes the looks test. There are a lot of moving parts at Glenville, but the talent is clearly evident and the Tarblooders will be a very dangerous team come November. After a challenging first 3 games vs Mentor, WGH and Strongsville, the Tarblooders will have time an easy time running the table vs a soft Senate schedule. Key Questions · Can Coach Ginn successfully integrate all the new faces? · Can Jefferson handle the kicking duties? · Has all the OHSAA paperwork been done properly? · Can Glenville’s special teams protect their punter? Stumbling Block Game Mentor – Mentor typically does not have the footspeed to contain Glenville’s wideouts, but the Cardinals should have an excellent defensive front and the Tarblooders will run the ball more this year. This is also the first game of the year for both teams and the Cards could pull a surprise before the Glenville players learn how to play with one another. 3) Cincinnati St Xavier 2005 record 15-0, state champions Key Losses – DE Alex Albright, QB Brad Scherer, LB Joe Ries, LB Lou Miller Key Games – 9/9 Lakewood St Edward, 9/15 Lakeland (FL) – Herbstreit Challenge, 10/6 @ LaSalle After coming up on the short end of things in 1992, 1998 and 2001, St Xavier finally kicked in the door for its 1st ever state football title by defeating the Massillon Tigers 24-17. This was also the 4th year in a row that a Cincinnati team claimed the D1 crow after Elder won in 2002-2003 and Colerain in 2004. Once again, if the crown is going to come back to Cincy, the Bombers and Colerain #4 look best positioned to make 5 in a row a reality. In addition to the always challenging GCL schedule, St Xavier could once again claim the title of most difficult schedule in the nation according to maxpreps.com, as they did in 2005. In a span of just 6 short days, St Xavier will have to face Lakewood St Edward and Lakeland (FL), both teams ranked in the preseason Top 5 nationally. Lakeland (FL) is the two-time defending champion in FL 5A and is loaded with talent. The Dreadnaughts have already had 8 players commit to SEC schools, including an eye opening 6 to Florida. The Dreadnaughts and Eagles could hang some early losses on the Bombers, but Coach Specht should have St X primed for another deep run in the playoffs. Specht has been nothing short of sensational in his 2 years at St X, compiling a 26-1 record. Similar to 2005, the strength of the St Xavier team will be its ability to control the flow of the game with its solid rushing attack. After rushing for almost 1,700 yards and 28 TDs in his sophomore season, Darius Ashley will once agin be the featured back for the Bombers. It is fairly rare for a sophomore to start at RB at a school like St Xavier, so that gives you an idea of Ashley’s talent level. Ashley has excellent balance, reads his blocks well and possesses good speed. The offensive line returns 3 very good HS lineman in Howard Patton (6’4 290#), junior Max Bauman (6’2 285#) and Wes Schroeder (6’4 290#). Schroeder is an underrated player that should generate some collegiate interest from at least MAC type schools. Mike Muldoon (6’5 285#) and Will Frasure (6’ 245#) also earned playing time on the offensive line last season for the Bombers. Handling the QB duties will be the punter and PK from season, Danny Milligan (5’8 165#). Milligan most likely will not be asked to win too many games for the Bombers, but he is an outstanding all around athlete. The main targets through the air will be TE Stephon Ball (6’5 210), WR Nick Owen (5’11 165#) and TE Mike Kneuven (6’4 225#) The question mark for St Xavier this year is on the defensive side of the ball as 7 starters must be replaced from a unit that surrendered only 6 points per game against the nation’s most difficult schedule. Junior DB Fred Craig (6’2 200#) will be the leader of the defense and was very impressive last year as a sophomore for the Bombers. Craig is always around the ball and is a playmaker. Junior DE Joe Langen (6’2 240#) will be a fixture on the defensive line as the only returning starter. The D Line looks to be the weakest part of the St X squad in 2006. The LB position looks in good shape, handled by junior Nick Schneider (6’3 225#) and senior Mike Hanlon (5’9 230#). Schneider has the talent to grow into a Big East type of player. John Saelinger (6’ 180#) returns in the defensive secondary, along with newcomers Ryan Ulmer (6’ 170#), Eric Robbe (6’2 185#) and Pat Earley (6’ 190#). Key Questions · Who steps up at QB? Milligan? Morris? Rumpke? · Do the Bombers have enough footspeed in the defensive backfield? · Can the Bombers come from behind to win? · How would the team react if they lose 2 games in 6 days against 2 excellent football teams? Stumbling Block Game Lakeland – It’s OH vs FL in the Herbstreit Classic and Lakeland is loaded with D1 speed. Can the Bombers keep up??? 4) Cincinnati Colerain 2005 Record 10-2, 2nd round Region 4 Key Losses: OL Connor Smith, LB Tyler Moeller, LB Cobrani Mixon, RB Terrence Sherrer, OL Eric Ornella. Key Games: 9/1 Columbus Brookhaven, 9/15 Cardinal O Hara (PA) – Herbstreit Challenge Outside of Glenville, no team in Ohio lost more D1 talent to graduation than Colerain did last year, but Colerain could not get by St Xavier as the Bombers gave Colerain their only 2 losses in hotly contested, low scoring games last season. Despite graduation’s heavy toll, the cupboard is hardly bare in Colerain Township. Coach Coombs has averaged nearly 10 wins a year in his 15 season at Colerain and has turned Colerain into a consistent power in D1. While it is certainly debatable, if the decade ended today, I would name Colerain as program of the decade for their consistent, high level of play. Colerain’s triple option offense starts with the QB position and Gary Pride (5’9 180# 4.4) will relinquish the position this season to junior Doug Reynolds (6’2 180#). Despite rushing for over 1000 yards and 19 TDs last season, Pride could not really pass the ball effectively and will move to defensive back to make way for the talented Reynolds. The featured back in the Colerain offense is likely to be senior Trammell Williams (6’ 200#). Much talent was lost on the offensive line, but junior Evan Borchers (6’1 240#) and TE Spencer Smith (6’3 220) will be some of the key lineman. Smith, Gary Pride and Eugene Clifford will be Reynolds’ main targets through the air and it is rumored that Colerain will actually attempt more passes this season. The defense will be led by DB Eugene Clifford (6’2 190# 4.45), widely regarded as the #2 college prospect in Ohio this season. The athletic Clifford is also a fine basketball player and registered an eye-opening 147 tackles last season with 6 interceptions from his safety position. Most every major program in the country such as Ohio State, Michigan, Florida State, Miami (FL), etc are seeking Clifford’s services. With Clifford and Gary Pride, who has committed to Akron, the secondary should be the strength of Colerain’s team. The front 7 needs a major overhaul with DT Calvin Dixon (5’11 200) and LB Jordan Miller (6’2 190#) as the only veteran players returning. Colerain will be a very fast team with great skill position players, but this will be a much smaller unit than Colerain teams in the recent past. For a team so reliant on running the triple-option, this lack of size is the biggest hurdle Colerain needs to overcome to return to Canton. Key Questions · Can Colerain replace so many lineman? · Will Colerain be able to pass effectively if they fall behind? · How will Reynolds handle the important QB position? · Will a soft GMC schedule prepare the Cardinals for the playoffs? Stumbling Block Game Cardinal O’ Hara (PA) – This is the least heralded team in the Herbstreit Classic, but O’ Hara is the 2nd best team in the Philly Catholic League and should not be overlooked. The Contenders 5) Canton McKinley 2006 record 12-1, state quarterfinals Key Losses WR Joe Morgan, WR Mark Jackson, OL Anthony Robinson, LB Harriel Moore. Key Games:10/28 @ Massillon. After rolling through the regular season unbeaten, including a 38-8 pasting of the Massillon Tigers, McKinley looked like they could be a serious contender for their 4th state football title in the playoff era. However, Massillon turned the tables on the Pups by defeating them 21-3 in the playoffs. Coach Brian Cross looks to have the Bulldogs primed for another deep playoff run if some questions on the offensive line get resolved. The strength of the Bulldogs will be a veteran, speedy defense that should give the unproven Bulldog offensive line some time to mature. McKinley’s offense will once again feature RB Morgan Williams (6’ 190# 4.5). Williams was an all Ohio selection last year after setting a Canton McKinley school record by rushing for 2,417 yards and 27 TDs. Williams is a slashing type of runner that really sets up his blocks well. Although he has not yet recieved an offer because of grade issues, schools such as Notre Dame, Illinois, Michigan and Purdue are showing serious interest. Senior QB Dan Grimsley (6’ 190) returns to direct the Bulldog offense after passing for 1,300 yards and 15 TDs with only 7 INTs last season. Leading the way for Morgan Williams will be FB George Tabron (6’3 225# 4.7), who transferred from Canton Central Catholic in the offseason. Grimsley’s main targets through the air will be WR Kenyad Blair (6’1 190#), Lonnie Richardson (6’ 160) and TE Steve Laubacher (5’10 215#). Morgan may find the running a little more difficult as most of his offensive line from last year is gone. Drew McIntyre (6’ 235#) is the only returning veteran on the offensive line. Juniors Isaiah Gatlin (5’9 240), Sean Whited (6’1 230#) and Max Rehfus (6’2 235#) will all see time on the OL. This unit will determine how far McKinley goes in 2006. The defense got a huge boost when Tabron transferred from Canton Central Catholic. Tabron will fill the void at LB and accounted for over 100 tackles and 6 sacks last year at CCC. Tabron has received an offer to play at Ball State next year and is getting interest from Pitt, Purdue and West Virginia. Other returning veterans include highly regarded junior DB Brandon Mingo (5’8 170#), junior DT Isaac Gatlin (5’9 235#), FB/LB Darius Williams (5’7 240#), LB DC Alexander (6’2 200#, 10 tackles for loss last year), Martavian Thigpen and DB Will Sheeler (5’8 160). The front 7 for the Pups should be a very solid group and keep McKinley in most games against a Federal League schedule that looks a little down this season. The kicking game is in excellent shape with 4 year starter Zack Campbell. Key Questions · Can the offensive line make room for Morgan Williams? · Who replaces Joe Morgan’s production as Morgan caught 13 of the 15 McKinley TD passes last year. · Is the schedule strong enough to get the Pups playoff ready? Stumbling Block Game 10/28 @Massillon – Always the biggest game in Ohio whenever it is played. 6) Massillon Washington 2005 record 13-2, state runner-up Key Losses: DT Dirk Dickerhoff, TE Bret Huffman DE Antonio James Key Games: 9/9 Chandler Hamilton (AZ) – Herbstreit Challenge, 9/22 @ Mentor, 10/14 @ WGH 10/28 @ Canton McKinley After 7 turbulent and inconsistent years in the Shepas era, Coach Tom Stacy took over the Massillon program and showed OH that Massillon is still a program capable of winning a state title in D1. In 2005, Massillon defeated St Ignatius for the 1st time in school history, rebounded from a crushing defeat at the hands of Canton McKinley to knock the Pups out of the playoffs, showed great determination in coming from behind to beat St Edward and fell just short of the school’s 1st football title since OH went to a playoff format in 1972. A very successful 1st campaign for Coach Stacy and hopes are high for a return trip to the finals in 2006, despite only 8 returning starters for the Tigers. QB Bobby Huth (5’9 155#) returns to call the signals for the Tigers. While Huth’s size will prevent him from being heavily recruited, he did complete 64% of his aerials last year for over 2000 yards and 17 TDs and is an effective leader in Coach Stacy’s system. One of Huth’s main responsibilities will be to hand the ball off to Brian Gamble (6’194#). Gamble is a versatile athlete rushing for over 1600 yards and 17 TDs, while also catching 32 balls for 630 yards and playing a dynamite safety position. Gamble made a tired Nate Oliver (OSU commit) look very slow in leading the Tigers to the state semifinal victory over the Eagles. As of now, Gamble only has an offer from Akron, mainly because his grades are not in order. Every top program in the country would be interested if his grade situation is resolved as he is a Top 10 talent in the state this year. Clearing the way for Gamble will OL Cory Shane (6’ 248#), junior OL Steve Johnson (6’1 350#), highly regarded junior OL Reggie Comeaux (6’3 313#) and OL Emery Saunders (6’1 284#). Massillon has some size up front but the group is somewhat inexperienced and lacks athleticism. How fast this group can develop will determine whether Massillon can return to the state title game in 2006. When Huth goes to the air, his main targets will be Gamble and WRs Trey Miller (6’1 179#) and Michael Porrini (6’2 200#). To give Gamble some rest, junior KJ Herring (5’9 180#) will get some carries and talented sophomore RB/DB Justin Turner (5’11 170) is also likely to get some looks with the varsity. The kicking game is in excellent shape with veteran kicker Steve Schott (6’1 136#). Gamble led the team in tackles last year with 90 and also had 3 INTs from his safety position. Another leader on the defensive side of the ball is LB Andrew Dailey (6’3 207# 4.6). Dailey is a 3 year starter and registered 74 tackles last year mainly playing in the secondary, but he will move up to LB this season. Dailey is also a very good all around athlete, excelling in both baseball and basketball. This versatility may allow Dailey to see some time on the offensive side of the ball in 2006. After considering offers from schools such as Florida, Illinois and Nebraska, Dailey verbally committed to play for Joe Paterno at Penn State. The defensive line is a big question mark for the Tigers and a move to a 3-4 or 3-5 look is a possibility. Saunders could see some time on the DL along with junior Steve Yoder (6’4 250#). The LB corps should be solid with Dailey, Anthony Scassa (6’ 195#), Cody Colly (6’2 180#). Darren McGuire (6’1 160#), junior Kevin Massey (5’9 150#), Bryan Sheegog (5’9 161#) and Trey Miller (6’1 179#) will be the main contributors in the secondary along with Gamble. In general, the Massillon D will be very fast, but a bit undersized. Key Questions · Is there enough talent on the offensive and defensive lines for the Tigers? · Can the DL keep blockers off a speedy but undersized group of LBs. · Is there enough depth behind some excellent front line players? Stumbling Block Game Chandler Hamilton (AZ) – Chandler is ranked #15 in the nation and the Huskies possess excellent team speed. The nephew (Kerry Taylor) of former NFL WR John Taylor plays for the Huskies and six starters return from a defense that didn’t give up a first half TD all year until the state semifinals. While AZ football in general is not that strong, the Tigers cannot overlook Chandler. 7) Hilliard Davidson 2005 record 13-1, state semifinals Key Losses: RB Christen Haywood, QB Don Curtis Key Games: 9/16 St Joseph Prep (PA) – Herbstreit Challenge, 9/29 Upper Arlington, 10/13 @ Dublin Coffman Regular readers of the CatFan Preseason preview should recall that I have always gotten Columbus wrong every year without fail. Coach Brian White implored me not to include his Wildcats in the Top 10 for that reason, but Hilliard Davidson appears to be the class of the Columbus area. Hilliard really opened some eyes last year by giving eventual state champion St Xavier a real battle in the state semifinals before succumbing 17-10. The Wildcats have some issues as they need to replace 7 defensive starters off a very good unit, but I would expect a return trip to the state semis for Hilliard. The strength of this club will be its offensive line as 4 starters return from last year. The leader of that group should be Blake Saul (6’1 275). Joining Blake on the offensive front will be Mike Saul (6’1 215#), Eric Canale (6’2 220#) and Pat Baker (6’2 250#). This experienced group should allow the offense to control the ball on the ground and give an inexperienced defense some time to develop. After splitting carries last year with Christen Haywood, RB Bo Delande (5’11 180#) will get the full workload in 2006. Last season, Delande carried the pigskin for over 1300 yards and 9 TDs in Hilliard’s run oriented offensive scheme. Connor Dietz will be taking over the QB position and his favorite target is likely to be returning WR Joey Ciamacco (5’ 11 170#). The defense has lots of holes to fill but the LB corps should be the strength of the unit with returning starters Brad McKinley (5’9 180#) and J.B Strahler (6’2 215#). Strahler was impressive in the season ending loss to St X with 7 tackles and he also recorded 12 sacks during the regular season. McKinley was the team’s leading tackler with over 100 tackles in 2005. Questions exist on the defensive line as Will Brown (6’2 215#) is the only returning starter and Kurt Stephens (5’10 170#) is the only Wildcat with experience in the secondary. Key Questions · Is Hilliard ready to move beyond one of the best Columbus programs to state title contender? · Who steps up on the defensive front? · Are the Wildcats ready for a national stage against one of Penssylvania’s better programs? Stumbling Block Game Dublin Coffman – If Hilliard isn’t the best team in Columbus, then Dublin Coffman is. OL Mike Adams (6’6 290#) is probably the best junior in the state and fellow junior Jake Stoneburner (6’4 190#) also looks like D1 material. This game is developing into central OHs best rivalry. BEST OF THE REST 8) Elyria 2006 Record 9-3, 2nd round Region 2 Key Losses: RB PJ Mahone QB Roger Smith Key Games: 9/8 Avon Lake, 9/22 Brunswick, 10/6 @ Strongsville After compiling a 9-3 record last year and making the playoffs for the 1st time in school history before losing to Canton McKinley in the 2nd round, the Pioneers looked to be a good sleeper pick this year. Coach Solis’ squad returns 17 starters from last season and the Pioneers were also bolstered by the transfer of standout athlete Chase Mason from Elyria Catholic. However, after a very well contested scrimmage against a highly regarded St Edward squad, the Pioneers aren’t sneaking up on anyone this year. Elyria essentially returns 9 starters on both offense and defense. Elyria should be a very solid team with the only major question mark being at the QB position. When the Pioneers have the ball, look for a 2 headed ground attack led by Jaa’Rome Williams (5’10 210# 4.6) and Chase Mason (6’1 200#). Williams carried the rock for over 1500 yards and 23 TDs last season while sharing carries with BGSU recruit PJ Mahone. Elyria hasn’t produced many college prospects in recent years and Williams was playing baseball this summer, so he didn’t make the summer camp circuit this year. This has prevented him from receiving any offers to date, but some school is going to get a steal with Williams. While at Elyria Catholic, Chase Mason rushed for nearly 1,900 yards so the Pioneers should have a lethal ground attack behind linemen Ryan Morgan (5’10 270#), Chris Smith (6’ 235#), Jeston Brooks (6’2 255#) and Nick McGreevy (6’2 230#). QB is a big question and the QB looked shaky in the Eds scrimmage. I didn’t catch a name, but he was a very short QB and Elyria needs to find an option here or they could be a one dimensional team. The main targets if Elyria can move the ball through the air are Danny Noble (6’5 210#), Jordan Thomas (6’1 175#) and TE Mitch Tulk (6’2 215#) Noble, Williams and Tulk do double duty with Noble playing DE and Williams/Tulk at LB. The recruiting services have overlooked Noble to this point, but Danny is very talented and looks to be at least a MAC type of player, if not higher. There are lots of veterans on the field for Elyria including DE Sonny Hazelwood (6’5 210#), DT Lamar James (6’ 270#) and LB TJ Dillon (5’9 205#). The DBs are primarily a group of juniors and include Jeff Hyre (5’10 180#), Greg Shotwell (6’1 195#) and Demetrius Dalton (5’9 175#). If Elyria can find an effective QB, a Region 2 title for this talented, veteran squad from Vic Janowicz Drive is a real possibility. They are loaded with skilled, veteran players that got their first taste of the playoffs in 2005. Expect the Pioneers to be playing meaningful games in November in 2006. Key Questions · Who steps up at QB? · Can Williams, Tulk and Noble stay fresh all season? · Will the soft schedule get the Pioneers playoff ready? Stumbling Block Game Avon Lake – The 3rd weekend of the season against a solid squad of Shoreman will show if Elyria is a contender or a pretender. 9) Mentor 2005 record 5-5, missed playoffs Key Losses: K Igor Iveljik Key Games: 8/26 Glenville (Cleveland Charity Game), 9/8 Solon, 9/22 Massillon Mentor has not made the playoff since “The Class” graduated in 2003 and a brutal 5 games stretch vs Glenville, Strongsville, Solon, St Ignatius and Massillon to open the season before LEL play will severely test the Cardinals early. The Cards need to win at least 3 of these games to get Coach Trivisonno’s team some games in November. Entering his 10th campaign as head coach at Mentor, Trivisonno has compiled a 65-33 record and the program at Mentor has shown vast improvement during his tenure. With 11 returning starters and several 3 years starters, Mentor looks well positioned to make a playoff run again in 2006. The strength of the Mentor team will be its offensive line. The O Line is a talented group led by 3 year starter Steve Matas (6’5 255#). Matas also stars on the defensive side of the ball and has been offered scholarships at Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan State, Miami (OH) and Cincinnati. Brady Demell (6’3 250#) is another 3 year starter. The versatile Demell will move to the center position this year and also excels at hockey and lacrosse and is drawing interest from schools such as Pitt, Syracuse and Navy. Joining DeMell and Matas on the O Line are junior Brad Bednar (6’4 220#), Eric Sinkko (6’1 230) and Pat Shaposka (6’2 260#). Starting junior QB Bart Tanski (6’2 195) returns to direct the offense after passing for 503 yards and 4 TDs in part time duty last year. Tanski also carried the ball for 406 yards and 8 TDs. Bill Deitman ( 5’10 185#) is another 3 year player and will be the featured RB after carrying for 504 yards and 6 TDs in 2006. Through the air, Tanski’s main targets will be WR Brandon James (6’3 190#), who caight 40 balls for 513 yards and 3 TDs last season. Jeremy Tomsic (6’1 185) and TE Tyler Shutz (6’1 185) will be the other primary targets. Matas and Demell are 2 way players that will also anchor the defensive front. In 2006, Matas registered 70 tackles and 5 sacks, while DeMell was almost a mirror image with 71 tackles and 4 sacks. Shane Melder (6’4 215#) and Alex Dudas (6’ 225#) will be the other starters on the DL. It seems a Mayse has been playing LB for Mentor each season for the last decade and Adam Mayse (6’ 210) will lead the LB corps this year along with junior JJ Laseak (6’3 200). Nate Wilson (6’ 165) is a 3 year veteran and has committed to play football next year for Eastern Michigan. Ryan Dugan (5’10 170) also returns for the Cards after picking off 2 passes last season. Key Questions · Can Mentor survive a grueling 5 game stretch to start the season? · Who takes over for sure footed PK Igor Ivelcik? · Does Mentor have enough footspeed to stay with the more talented teams on its schedule? · Can DeMell and Matas hold up physically with so much PT? Stumbling Block Game Solon – Looking at the Cards first 5 games, they look to be favorites over Ignatius and Strongsville and underdogs vs Glenville and Massillon. The Solon game is more of a toss-up and is a critical one as the Comets have enjoyed success against the Cardinals. This game will be played at Mentor Stadium and might be a must win game to make the playoffs. 10) Centerville 2005 Record 10-2, 2nd round Region 4 Key Losses: OL Chase Collins, DL Simon Abboud, DL, Joe Denniston Key Games: 9/16 Don Bosco Prep (NJ) – Herbstreit Challenge, 10/13 Huber Heights Wayne Centerville compiled a 10-2 mark last year and suffered a heartbreaking 29-28 loss to rival Huber Heights Wayne in the 2nd round of the playoffs. In 2 games against Wayne last season, Centerville surrendered 67 points while only surrendering 98 in the remaining 10 contests. With 11 returning starters and some impact transfer players, Centerville could be finally be in a position to seriously threaten for the Region 4 title. The Elks have an embarrassment of talent at the RB position this season with Will Johnson (6’2 200#), junior James Cravens (6’ 210#), junior Tenarious Collins (6’ 210#) and junior Tony Folino (5’11 170). James Cravens was the most productive back last season, rushing for over 700 yards and 13 TDs as a sophomore. Will Johnson, who transferred from Dayton Chaminade-Julienne, is probably the most talented of the group. Despite missing most of his sophomore and junior seasons due to a combination of injuries and academic issues, Johnson has received offers to date from Eastern Michigan and Marshall. Other schools such as Maryland, Pitt and West Virginia are showing interest and that list could grow if Johnson gets his grades in order and stays injury free. Tenarious Collins (6’1 210#) is a transfer from Alabama that comes with very high expectations. The offensive line should also be a strength as 3 starters return including seniors Drew Davis (6’3 250#), TJ Hall (5’ 11 230#) and Calvin Moran (6’2 250#). The QB position is still up for grabs, but Fleming appears to be the early leader. On the defensive side of the ball, Tyler Replogle (6’2 225# 4.7) is a consistent, tackling machine. A three-year starter, Replogle registered 140 tackles as a sophomore and 107 tackles as a junior, including 8 sacks and 24 tackles for losses. Replogle was the GWOC defensive player of the year last season and has already committed to Indiana. The Hoosiers got themselves a steal as Replogle is a very underrated player. The LB unit should be a strong one as Greg O Dell (6’2 200#) also returns after recording 105 tackles in 2005. The secondary returns Matt Miller (6’1 190#) and John McConnaughey (5’11 175#). Will Johnson will also likely log some time in the defensive backfield as the Elks have typically not enjoyed great footspeed in the secondary. The defensive line is also a question mark as only Alex Carlson (6’1 210#) returns from last season. The Elks are going to score and are blessed with great speed at the skill position, but Coach Ullery’s team will go as far as their defense takes them. Centerville’s regular season schedule is not that challenging and they were exposed last season when they played good competition. In 3 games against the only upper level teams on their schedule, Centerville surrendered 100 points in games against Wayne, Clayton Northmont and Wayne. If this situation does not improve, the #10 ranking is too high and Phil Simms’ son and Don Bosco (NJ) will make it a long day for Elk fans in the Herbstreit Classic. Key Questions · Can the Centerville DBs cover teams with speed? · Who will step up and claim the QB position? · Can the inexperienced DL keep blockers off Replogle and O’Dell? · Are there enough footballs to keep 4 talented backs happy? Stumbling Block Game Huber Heights Wayne – Anytime you lose 2 games in a season to a rival, it is a long offseason. THE NEXT 10 (IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER) Warren Harding – If Levi George proves to be an effective passer and the offensive playbook is expanded, WGH is a Top 10 team. OSU recruit Boom Herron, Marlin Parker and Sidney Glover are all D1 talents. Cincinnati LaSalle – DE Ben Martin is widely regarded as the best prospect in Ohio, but LB Vince Harris, DE Chandler Burden and OL Garrett Celek are also nice players for the Lancers. Findlay – Chris Schenider is a nice looking QB and Findlay has the best kicker in the state. A depleted secondary and a 1st year head coach are the question marks. Solon – Returns 12 starters from a group that lost to Glenville in the 2nd round. Justin Belza and Dominic Musarra are both 3 years starters. Will be breaking in a new QB and the Comets need to replace RB Brandon Schimits. Clayton Northmont – QB Clay Belton tossed 30 TD passes last year and the Thunderbolts have 11 players back from last season when they lost in the 1st round to Centerville. Cincinnati Elder – Don’t expect the Panthers to be down too long with talented underclassmen Kyle Rudolph and Steve Hangehold ready to produce. Elder is probably a year away from serious contention for a state title. Cincinnati Withrow – Withrow is starting to look like Glenville south. DT Daryle Ballew, WR Derrick Sherman, LB Ricardo Thompson, WR Bryant Thomas, QB Juandez Brown, RB Sir Abernathy and DB Ismael Pope all may have someone paying for their college tuition.. Upper Arlington – Returns 18 starters including Joey D’Andrea and should have a strong defense. Question marks are their ability to put points on the board. Toledo St John – Return 12 starters from last year’s playoff team including veteran signal caller Sean Patterson Dublin Coffman – Mike Adams is probably the best junior in the state. Regional Finals R1 St Edward over Glenville R2 Canton McKinley over Elyria R3 Hilliard Davidson over Dublin Coffman R4 Cincinnati St Xavier over Colerain State Semifinals St Edward over Canton McKinley St Xavier over Hilliard Davidson State Champion St Edward over St Xavier Biggest Surprise Both Cincinnati Moeller and Cleveland St Ignatius, who have combined for 16 state titles, miss the playoffs and both have losing records. Best Senior Players in Ohio 1) DE Ben Martin – Cincinnati LaSalle 2) S Eugene Clifford – Colerain 3) RB/WR Brandon Saine – Piqua 4) DT Antonio Jeremiah – Hilliard Darby 5) RB/S Brian Gamble – Massillon Best Underclassmen In Ohio 1) OL Mike Adams – Dublin Coffman 2) RB Brandon Beacham – Youngstown Cardinal Mooney 3) OL Zebrie Sanders – Clayton Northmont 4) LB Mike Zordich – Youngstown Cardinal Mooney 5) De Nathan Williams – Miami Trace Most Likely To Repeat as State Champions 1) Toledo Central Catholic 2) Cincinnati St Xavier 3) Steubenville 4) Delphos St John 5) Coldwater 6) Hamler Patrick Henry Enjoy the season. As always, your comments and corrections are much appreciated.

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