Gameday Power Poll #4 - Chantilly
Torrian Pace and the Chantilly Chargers Are Hungry To Return To The State Championship Hunt Behind A Powerful Running Game And Aggressive Defense...
Photo By: Jon Roser / Gameday Magazine
#4 CHANTILLY CHARGERS
Last year, the Chargers raced out to an 8-2 record and were the top contender to dethrone Westfield. Yet a first round playoff loss to Robinson put to rest any hopes of an upset bid and a chance at defending their Northern Region title. This year, however, the Chargers are back and ready to again challenge for a region title. They're reloaded, refocused, and recharged to take care of business in 2008.
Quarterback:
This is a huge question mark for head coach Mike Lalli at this point. In his previous two years, he's had two standout signal callers lead his offense in Nate Worek and Austin Decker, but this year, he'll have to turn to someone who's unproven. While the strength of Chantilly has always been their versatile run game, Lalli will need to find a strong quarterback to lead his offense.
Running back:
Chantilly is fortunate enough to possibly have the best running back in the region in Torrian Pace. Pace, a three-year starter for the Chargers, has already proven himself and played a big role in helping Chantilly win their region title from two years ago. He will be the player called upon to take this team to the promised land, and he is more than capable of doing exactly that. Also look for Kevin McGrath to help take the burden off Pace during the year.
Wide receiver:
Lalli loses his top three receiving threats from last year, namely Chris Gentile, but he's fortunate enough to have three capable replacements who he believes can get the job done for his offense. Look for juniors Kris Martin and Mike Farris to have breakout years as they are two names that the area will get to know real quick. Tight end Mike Ryan should also add to what looks to be a formidable receiving corps.
Offensive line:
Right along with running back, this is Chantilly's strong point. Seeing how Lalli's offense lives and dies by how his offensive line performs, it looks like he'll be in good hands for 2008. Returning all-Gameday performer Isaac Sine returns up front as does Andrew Crawford. Both are big, athletic, but more importantly, experienced. Adding to the mix too up front will be Brandon Golden, another big body that will greatly help their offensive attack.
Defensive line:
This was the unit that carried Chantilly to their region title in 2006, so you know this is a vital part of the Charger defense. Max Jeffrey and Sam Dietze will be the ones counted upon to lead the defensive effort in the trenches. If they succeed, this will be another top-notch defense.
Linebacker:
The strength of the Charger defense resides here, specifically with Sine. Not only is Sine experienced, but he's big and strong and can flat-out hit. As a three-year starter, he will be the one asked to carry this whole entire defense. Playing alongside Sine will be Brian Abatemarco, who will be asked to replace all-Gameday linebacker Mike Quigg.
Secondary:
Look for this unit to be improved from a year ago. Martin, Danny Abatemarco, and Mike Fries will be the ones patrolling the air channels, and Lalli has a lot of faith in their potential. We know the front seven will be strong, but if this last line of defense can get the job done as Lalli thinks they can, this will be one of the better defenses in the Concorde.
Key Game
Sept. 18 vs. Westfield: This rivalry game has now turned into the game of the year in the area. It's hard to match a rivalry such as this one, specifically because the winner of this game will be in the driver seat for the Concorde District title.
Schedule:
Aug. 29 vs. Langley
Sept. 5 at Washington-Lee
Sept. 12 at Annandale
Sept. 18 vs. Westfield
Sept. 26 vs. Herndon
Oct. 3 at Oakton
Oct. 10 at Robinson
Oct. 17 at Fairfax
Oct. 24 at Centreville
Oct. 31 vs. Edison
Extra Point:
Since Lalli took over an 0-10 team in 2004, he's gone 22-13 in his career, including a regional championship.
