Gameday Power Poll #8 - Oakton
#8 OAKTON
Last year, the Oakton Cougars suffered what can be classified as an abnormal year. For starters, they didn't qualify for the playoffs, which was something they had done five out of the past six years. Yet this is still a program not too far removed from a state title. Back in 2005, head coach Joe Thompson shocked the world as his Cougars upset the Percy Harvin-led and nationally ranked Landstown Eagles. So to see Oakton go 5-5 in 2007 can certainly be seen as an off-year. The silver lining for Oakton, however, was that last year's team returns practically intact. So while giving a 5-5 team the number eight slot in the Power Poll may seem like a reach, we certainly don't think so. No way this team does any worse than 7-3 in 2008.
Quarterback:
This might be Oakton's biggest strength but also their biggest question mark. Last year they featured both Ryan Harris and Chris Coyer at quarterback, but that won't be the case this year. Thompson promised us nothing will be the same from last year, and that means finding one solid quarterback and sticking with him. Right now the competition is up in the air between Harris, Coyer, Wade Reynolds, as well as sophomore Jimmy Boone. While Boone is just a sophomore, we suggest you put that name in your memory bank because he could be the next big thing to come out of this area. Thompson even hinted he could grab the starting job.
Running back:
Last year, this was probably Oakton's strength and with what they return, they should once again form a very potent rushing attack. Leading the way will be Trey Watts, a player who has been tearing apart opposing defenses since his sophomore year. Joining him in the backfield will be Jonathan Meadows, another very effective back that will only add to Thompson's arsenal.
Wide Receiver:
Look for this position to be improved from last year. Returning are Jay Young, Wade Reynolds (TE), and Thomas Vitale. All three are very capable receivers but have even better potential. The more this group develops, then the sky will be the limit for this offense. Derek and Dustin Gleich will be also getting reps at receiver and could also factor in a big way to the offense.
Offensive line:
What's interesting about the offensive line for Oakton is that they are all young but have plenty of experience. Last year, coach Thompson decided to start Austin Mayhugh, Jonathan Hart, and Sam Strauss who were all sophomores. Now as juniors, they should be ready to not only anchor the Oakton offense, but also prove to be pretty darn good. All three draw rave reviews from the coaching staff, and we wouldn't be surprised to see them emerge as some of the better lineman in the area. Nick Koutris, another junior, will also factor into the offensive line.
Defensive line:
As was the case with the offensive line, Thompson returns a host of talent at this position as well. Scott Fangding, another standout junior, highlights this group as he'll be joined alongside by Chad Faulkner and Brett Howan. There is more than enough depth at this area of the field as nearly every backup returns as well. Needless to say the competition could be fierce as Thompson will have plenty of options to turn to.
Linebackers:
Here is where coach Thompson's best player resides in Jack Tyler. In fact, Thompson stated Tyler is probably the best linebacker he's ever seen play, which is saying a lot. He'll be the cornerstone of this entire defense which means they'll be in pretty safe hands. He'll be joined alongside by Kenny Hanson and Joey McCallum, two very agile players in their own right.
Secondary:
Thompson's last line of defense will likely be heavily equipped. Just like every position on the field, he returns a lot of talent here (notice a theme?). Led by Joey Clawson and Dustin Gleich, this should prove to be a fairly effective group. They will also be joined by Andrew Leonard, whom Thompson expects to play a key role for his secondary.
Special Teams:
Oakton possesses arguably one of the best kicker/punters in the entire area in Wade Reynolds. He'll already be a key asset at tight end and possibly quarterback, but his true gift may be in kicking. According to Thompson, his offseason repertoire has made him twice the athletic talent he was before, making him quite a key component for Oakton.
Key Game
10/3 vs. Chantilly
This is a game that has slowly evolved into one of the best rivalries around. They are two backyard neighbors and feelings started to get hurt back when Chantilly made their run to the state championship game and beat Oakton twice. Since then, it's safe to say the two have not been the happiest of neighbors ever since.
Schedule:
Aug. 29 at Madison
Sept. 5 vs. Annandale
Sept. 12 at T.C. Williams
Sept. 18 at Fairfax
Sept. 26 vs. Langley
Oct. 3 vs. Chantilly
Oct. 10 at Centreville
Oct. 17 vs. Robinson
Oct. 24 vs. Westfield
Oct. 31 vs. Herndon
Extra Point
Oakton returns 17 of 22 starters this year, but maybe more impressive is that every single backup returns.
