Gameday Power Poll #6 - Sherando
Ross Metheny and Bill Hall will unite one last time to make a run for the one thing they haven't done together; win a state championship ring.
Photo By: Gameday Magazine
#6 SHERANDO WARRIORS
The Sherando Warriors went on a magical run in 2007 that took them all the way to the state title game where they lost to defending champ Amherst. Despite coming up one game short of the ultimate prize, plenty of key players return for this perennial AA powerhouse. Their sights are again set on capturing a state title, and they have the firepower in 2008 to do just that.
Quarterback:
What else can be said about quarterback Ross Metheny? It's hard to imagine, but it was only four years ago when during his freshman year, he took over this Sherando squad and led them to greatness. Now a senior, he's more focused than ever to lead his team to the promised land. After getting injured in state title game, he's spent countless hours studying tape and preparing himself mentally for the road ahead. If Sherando is going to win a state title, it will be because of Metheny.
Running back:
Star running back and Gameday Player of the Year Markeith Brisco graduated, which means head coach Bill Hall has some big shoes to fill. Fullback Nick Merchant does return, which should add stability to running attack, but everyone should keep an eye on Roger Smith. He's the answer to all of Sherando's worries at running back, and he'll undoubtedly get the job done.
Wide Receiver:
Again, graduation hurts this position greatly. Gone is all-Gameday performer Derek Crosen, as well as tight end Brian Barlow and Doug Davis. That means the focus of the passing attack will likely be focused on Derrick Dehaney, a returning starter who should have a huge year now that he's the number one receiver. Dimitri Luck should also look to have a breakout year for the Warriors.
Offensive Line:
Aside from quarterback, this is Sherando's biggest strength. Hall returns three starters in Caleb Ritenour, Mike Mullins and Hunter Taylor who can all flat-out get the job done. Losing all-Gameday's Joey Christine surely hurts, but the trio of Ritenour, Mullins, and Taylor should make life easy for the Sherando offense.
Defensive Line:
Sherando should be feeling very secure in the trenches, as they'll be working with two of the premier defensive lineman in the Northwestern District. First, there's Taylor, who'll be asked to play both ways and then Cephus Williams, who proved what a force he was last year. This is certainly an area of strength for Hall's Warriors.
Linebacker:
As good as the defensive line should be with Williams, the linebacking core might be even better. Merchant returns as does Ryan Witt, and together, they perform one fierce defensive tandem. Not much should get by these two as some of the better linebackers you'll find in the AA ranks. As Metheny carries the offense, Witt and Merchant will be the ones carrying the defense.
Secondary:
This should be an area of concern for Sherando. All four starting defensive backs have graduated which means fresh faces will be making up the entire secondary. Look for Phil Root and possibly Luck to be the ones who do end up snagging up starting jobs, but both did gain valuable playing time in parts of games in 2007.
Key Game
Oct. 31 at Millbrook: Last year, this game decided the Northwestern District champ and it likely will again this year. Millbrook comes back loaded with talent and should Sherando a run for their money.
Schedule:
Sept. 5 at Musselman (WV)
Sept. 12 vs. Hedgesville
Sept. 18 vs. Warren County
Sept. 26 at Handley
Oct. 3 vs. Central
Oct. 10 at Skyline
Oct. 17 vs. James Wood
Oct. 24 vs. Brentsville
Oct. 31 at Millbrook
Nov. 7 vs. Kettle Run
Extra Point:
Since taking over as head coach in 2003, Bill Hall has gone a remarkable 46-12.
