Gameday Power Poll #9 - Broad Run
Broad Run returns a plethora of talent at the skill positions, specifically 6-foot-4 junior receiver Adrian Flemming...
Photo By: Gameday Magazine
#9 BROAD RUN
Capturing the hearts and minds of many last year were the Broad Run Spartans. After going 0-10 in 2005, this program soon found themselves on the opposite side of the equation as they went 10-0 last year en route to only their third district title in school history. Despite a quick playoff exit, this team has the majority of its talent back for the 2008 campaign, making them a heavy favorite in the Dulles District.
Quarterback
Returning at quarterback will be Chris Jessop, a versatile athlete who split time with graduated quarterback Cole Shain last year. As an all-state defensive back, it's obvious that he's athletic enough to get the job done, but now that he's the full-time starter, he could really take off in 2008.
Running back
Here is where the Spartan offense gets scary-good. First, there's returning all-Gameday tailback Breon Earl, who adds an element of explosiveness and speed. Then there's Kenny McAdow, a bruising fullback who will be the thunder to Earl's lightning. Finally, junior TJ Peeler will now be able to showcase his skills. Probably the best overall athlete of the three, Peeler should have a breakout year and be the one to take the Broad Run rushing attack to the next level. Without a doubt, this group of backs will form the best rushing attack in the Dulles.
Wide receiver
The set of wide receivers that Broad Run will be using this year might just be juniors, but they could start on any AA team in the state. Yes, they are that talented. Highlighting the group will be Adrian Flemming, a player who should see considerable interest from DI-A schools next year. Complimenting Flemming will be Joey Quigg, who may lay claim as the fastest player in the entire district. Expect to also see Earl split out at receiver, and combined, this receiving corps should do a ton of damage to opposing defenses in 2008.
Offensive line
With there being a plethora of talent at the skill positions, the offensive line will need to be the ones to make this offense function like a well-oiled machine. Help making that happen will be Shawn Lewis and Taylor Evans, two players who have proven to get the job done in the past. If Lewis and Evans can help get this line performing at a high level, then the Spartan offense will be deadly.
Defensive line
If there was a concern about this Broad Run team, this is would be it. Head coach Michael Burnett, though, is very high on defensive end Will Field, who could have a breakout year. If the 6-foot-4 lineman can in fact have a productive year, the Spartan defense will be in much better shape.
Linebacker
Here's another position where the talent just jumps out of the page. Specifically, there's McAdow, who is a returning all-Gameday performer and will be the field general for the Spartan defense. Alongside McAdow is Mikey Cotton, who Burnett believes to be one of the better linebackers in the area. As if having Cotton and McAdow weren't enough, there's also Tyler Johnson, who is possibly bigger and more physically intimidating than the previously aforementioned linebackers.
Secondary
Burnett won't be taking any chances on his last line of defense, and will therefore be having his secondary completely comprised of offensive stars. Of those doing double-duty will be Jessop, an all-state player from a year ago. Playing alongside Jessop will be Earl, Quigg and Flemming, who comprise quite a talent-laden group of defensive backs.
Special Teams
Broad Run is lucky to also have a great weapon in the form of kicker/punter Graham Allen. As if the Spartan offense and defense didn't have enough talent to help them get the job done, Allen and his work with the special teams will make their lives a whole lot easier.
Key Game
Oct. 3 at Heritage- The key to the Dulles District title just might very well reside in Leesburg. If the Spartans can take care of Heritage, they have a clear shot at their second straight district title.
Schedule
Aug. 28 at Wakefield
Sept. 5 vs. Ballou
Sept. 12 BYE
Sept. 18 vs. Brentsville
Sept. 26 vs. Briar Woods
Oct. 3 at Heritage
Oct. 10 vs. Dominion
Oct. 17 at Loudoun County
Oct. 24 vs. Potomac Falls
Oct. 31 vs. Freedom (South Riding)
Nov. 7 at Park View
Extra Point
Last year, Broad Run captured just their third district title in the programs 30-plus years of existence.
