#13 KELLAM KNIGHTS presented by LENDY'S
Kellams offensive line was one of the reasons the Knights made the playoffs last year, but after losing their star tailback from a year ago the boys up front have to step up even more
PHOTO BY MIKE SHIBLEY
Kellam Knights High School Football Preview
By Michael Shibley
Head Coach: Chris DeWitt (11th Season)
2008 Record (8-4)
Kellam led the region in rushing as the Knights avenged one of their regular season losses to Cox in the first round of the playoffs, then lost to Ocean Lakes in the second round. Kellam lost their two leading rushers from last season by Coach DeWitt is confident his returning group of players will remain competitive in the Beach District this season.
Key Game
The Ocean Lakes Dolphins are the preseason favorites in the region and the Knights have always given their rivals a tough game. On October 9, the Dolphins travel to Kellam to face off in a great mid season rivalry game.
2009 Schedule
8/28 Cox= L 25-10
9/3 at Landstown
9/11 at Princess Anne
9/17 Salem
9/25 at Tallwood
10/2 at Kempsville
10/9 Ocean Lakes
10/16 First Colonial
10/30 at Green Run
11/6 Bayside
Offense - Wing T
Quarterbacks - Matt Schmit (6'2" 175lbs), the senior gave the Knights a decent passing attack when he took over under center last season. While the Knights break in new running backs, look for Schmit to have an expanded role over last season. The Knights ran more out of the shotgun last year than ever as Schmit is a threat to run and pass.
Running Backs - While Schmit adds a nice wrinkle to the passing game. It's the rushing attack the Knights are famous for. James Taylor, the region's leading rusher graduated so the Knights have to fill his void. Doing so is a trio of backs. Leading the group is speedy senior KJ Florence who has spent time in the defensive backfield and as kick returner. Junior Evan Lowe and Sophomore Dean Morrocu give the Knights a great backfield.
Wide Receivers - The Knights have more talent this season at receiver than they have had in recent years. Trey Rascoe (5'10" 165) and Shawn Butts (6'4" 200) are the leading seniors. Rascoe is the slot man while Butts has the height and strength to win the jump balls. Joining them is Sophomore Chris Garner. He is 6'5" and is still developing. By the end of the season he could be a star.
Tight End - Ross Ward (6'2" 230) has solid skills on the field and has the potential to be a threat in the passing game.
Offensive Line - The Knights lost their anchor at left tackle as Hunter Steward is now with UVA. However, there is plenty of experience on the line. Center Taylor Tilghman (6' 250), and guards Oliver Olivas (5'9" 230) and Luke Lesinski (6' 230) are all experienced seniors who will be very strong up the middle, while tackles Aaron Jarosz and Trey Laster are big but green.
Defense - Multiple 40 Front
Defensive Line - Only Shawn Butts will see time going both ways this season. This will help the rest of the players on offense conserve energy. It also helps that experienced seniors dominate the group. Keithan Inmon (6'3" 210) has speed to rush off the end, while Taylor Tennyson and Joe Marquette stuff the middle.
Linebackers - Graduation took a heavy toll on the Knights last year at linebacker, but there is plenty of young talent looking to step up. Nick Senti (5'8" 215) is the leading senior. Behind him is junior Nathan Borrero and sophomore Laurent Pinchinat. Also look for freshman Turner Bishop to get some solid playing time as well.
Secondary - KJ Florence will go both ways this season. Also in the defensive backfield for the Knights are seniors Trey Rascoe, Henry Gray, and Jason Bost. Along with junior Freddie Hoggard, the Knights have an experienced and talented secondary.
Special Teams - Junior punter/kicker Trent Martin has a strong and accurate leg who can make field goals accurately from 40 yards.
