Frank W. Cox Football Preview
Following consecutive 5-5 seasons, the Cox Falcons are switching things up on offense as well as revamping a defense that returns only three starters from last year. The Double Wing power running approach, which the Falcons ran the past three years, is being changed to the multiple I-formation offense. Coach Steve Allosso will have to bring his team up to speed on the new plays but he was largely successful in doing so three years ago when he changed to the Double Wing and the Falcons went a school best, 7-3.
Quarterbacks
Senior Matt Kingsbury has been a backup the past couple of years, getting most of his experience on the practice field. The position is his to lose, and his smarts and decision making is what will land him the starting job. Pushing the senior are sophomore Tyler Lake, a junior varsity starter last year, along with freshman Zach Bach and Troy Rudiger. The Falcons plan to make the passing game much more of a priority than it has been the past three years.
Running Backs
Workhorse back and perennial thousand yard rusher Andre Boone is off to Akron, but Allosso doesn't believe there will be a big hole at running back. Strongman King Saunders will continue his role as full back because of his ability to gain tough yards and his improved blocking. Saunders' strength will be a valuable asset in short yardage. He bench presses 425 lbs and parallel squats more than 500 lbs. Chris Keller, a senior, will be the starting running back. Another back that can carry the load, Keller also squats more than 500 lbs and bench presses 335 lbs. At slot back, senior Zeke Novak, with his 4.48 40 yard dash speed, will use his running and catching ability to open things up for the offense. Look for athletic freshman Justin Hughes to contribute and senior Cory Stevens to get some carries.
Wide Receivers
At a position that hasn't received much attention in recent years, Allosso believes he has a stockpile of catching talent. Junior Chandler Fenner should be able to use his all around athleticism to get playing time here this season. Senior David Erbe has been working hard learning the position and deserves playing time. Speedster Randy Lott will be sure to factor into the mix. He runs a legitimate 4.5 40 yard dash.
Tight Ends
This will be a position run by committee, with no clear favorite emerging just yet. Allosso has said he desires a good, old fashioned tight end – somebody who can knock you over with their blocking as well as come down with the big catch. Juniors Jeff Roenker, Mike Jones and Clayton Weast are all competing for the spot along with a host of young guys.
Offensive Line
This year's line on both sides of the ball will be much bigger, as new additions aim to restore what was once a major strength for the Falcons. Seniors James Crell at 6-3 and 245 lbs, and Joey Morey at 6-1 and 330 lbs return after gaining experience last season. Allosso is also expecting a good season from senior Ben Rictor who is 6-5 and 320 lbs. He last played football in middle school, but is progressing well. Ryan Marshall, 6-2 and 280 lbs, is a junior transfer from Texas and junior Jeff Welch, 5-11 and 280 lbs, moved in from North Carolina. Sophomores Lee Allen and Brendan Lammond also will get looks along the line.
Defensive Line
As with the offensive side, the men in the trenches this year will be much bigger. The interior will be manned by many of the same personnel from offense along with sophomore Jack Burbank who is sure to add some run-stuffing prowess at 6-3 and 290 lbs. At defensive end, Keller and sophomore Patrick Cooke are favorites to start. Senior Brandon Courier recently moved into the area and also looks like a player on the outside.
Linebackers
Saunders, second team All Beach District defensive end last year, has made the switch to middle linebacker. He is constantly improving, picking up the position rather quickly and should be an anchor for the entire defense. On the strong side, senior Kevin Rondorf will provide needed run support with his aggressive, downhill style of play. Senior Collin Morisi will use his strength and 4.6 speed to shore up the weak side position. Courier, Chad Hutchins, Chris Penny and Austin Madden could also get playing time. This unit looks stacked to stop the run, and is improving upon its pass defense. Allosso doesn't believe opponents' off-tackle running plays will be as effective this year.
Secondary
A completely new defensive backfield will try to quickly gain experience in a district that has been increasingly more apt in the passing game. Quinten Morrow is big and solid at strong safety, and agile junior Josh Bowens will man the free safety. Cornerback has a couple of favorites, but after that is up for grabs with good talent but little experience. Finner and Novak should take the starting spots, with Stevens, Lott, Shane Brazier and Ryan Sherman competing for time on the field.
Kickers
Sophomore Drew Jarrett will lend his services for both the kicking and punting duties. His strong leg and accuracy should make this a position of strength for the Falcons.
Key Game: Week 1 vs. Ocean Lakes at home, followed by the game that could well determine the Beach District championship when the Falcons travel to Salem.
