Potomac Falls 2006 Football Preview
First year head coach Scott Woodlief takes over the reigns this fall for the Potomac Falls Panther football program. Woodlief comes to the Dulles District after coaching at the Apprentice School, a division III collegiate program. He will inherit a talented group of players that are hungry for success after last season's disappointing 4-6 finish. Potomac Falls must find a replacement for All Gameday Player of the Year Jay Branom, who graduated after posting nearly 1,800 yards rushing and 17 TD's a year ago.
With a tough non-district schedule that includes Manassas Park, Martinsburg, Hedgesville, and Jefferson High School, Potomac Falls will have to start quickly to better their record from a year ago. However, look for this team to hang around the top of the Dulles District standings until the end of the season and possibly come up with some major upsets.
Quarterback:
The Panthers enter training camp looking for a new quarterback to lead the offense. The competition is wide open with sophomore Chris Pelto, junior Kevin Izapanha, and senior Chase Whitlow competing for playing time. Senior Jonathan Gunning returns after breaking his collar bone two years in a row to make a third try at winning the starting job.
Running Back:
Replacing 1,800 yards and 17 touchdowns won't be easy, but the Panthers are going to try. Last year's workhorse Jay Branom sometimes carried the ball over 40 times per game. This year, it will be up to several players to produce in the backfield. Senior Mustafa Abugidieri and juniors David Logan, and Justin Farrell all will be competing for carries, as will Josh Parnis. Look for newcomers Mike Baker and Chad McMichael to also get a few looks in training camp as sophomores.
Wide Receiver:
Senior Chris Frank returns to start at the wide receiver position, and should be one of the key targets for whoever takes the snaps at quarterback this fall. Frank is a very athletic and fast player who can change the direction of a game at any time. Senior Doc Horton could also emerge as a candidate to start opposite of Frank.
Tight End:
Senior Dominic Cook has the size and hands to be one of the best tight ends in the Dulles District this fall. After hurting his knee a year ago, Cook is healthy and ready to have a successful senior season. Look for Steve Hancock to get plenty of time as well at tight end. Cook and Hancock could be the best tight end tandem in the Dulles District.
Offensive Line:
The Panthers are blessed with several stellar returning starters on the offensive line. Standout tackle Blaise Ruffing will once again dominate, and should be the lead blocker on most Panther running plays. Senior guard Othman Atalib returns for his final campaign and senior Myles Teague will be counted on to fill the other guard spot. Dominic Turner and sophomore David Zedan could see action as well on the line.
Defensive Line:
Blocking senior Blaise Ruffing won't be an easy task for any of the Panther's opponents this fall. Ruffing will anchor the defensive line for Potomac Falls, and should dominate. Steve Hancock will man one of the defensive end positions and will put pressure on the quarterback with his athletic ability. Dominic Cook is equally effective at the other end position. Look for Altalib, Turner, Teaque and Zedan to also see time on the defensive line.
Linebacker:
Junior Ryan Mehalic is a tough player who will be the emotional leader on the defensive side of the ball for the Panthers. Mehalic should have an outstanding season chasing down ball carriers with his tenacious approach to the game. Sophomore Chris Pelto and senior Mustafa Abugidieri will most likely see action at the other two linebacker positions.
Defensive Backs:
All Gameday cornerback Chris Frank returns as a lock down player in the secondary, and should be one of the better cover corners again in 2006. Frank had 4 interceptions a year ago and was very effective at taking the opponent's best wideout out of the game. Look for Josh Parnish, Mike Baker, and sophomore Chad McMichael to get some good playing time at the safety positions.
Kickers:
Sophomore Tyler Wilson looks like the favorite to handle the place kicking duties for the Panthers this fall. Chris Frank should be the punter again this year after having a solid year in 2005 kicking the ball.
Key Game:
The first district game is always important, but this year the Panthers lineup against Broad Run. The Spartans and Panthers have always had crazy endings to their annual match-ups, and this year should be no different. Keep your eyes on the result of this one because the winner might just gain enough confidence to chase a district title.
Extra Point:
Potomac Falls has run the wishbone offense and a version of the single wing running attack in the past couple of seasons. Look for this year's offense to be completely different with the arrival of first year head coach Scott Woodlief.
