BIG 8

There is little doubt Regis Jesuit, which moves over from the Continental League, and Westminster, from the Class 4A Skyline, could have their hands full with the six Jefferson County League holdovers. Bear Creek, which reached the semifinals last season, has been tagged not only the league favorite, but the state's preseason No. 1 team. But Chatfield, Columbine and Pomona all had winning records last season, and each played the other extremely tough during the regular season. Lakewood was the only one of the six that struggled, and the Tigers could be in a similar position. Arvada West is rebuilding. Westminster now is a co-op team with Ranum, and if the players from the two schools jell, they could be the surprise of the season.

Arvada West, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Casey Coons

The Wildcats were clobbered by graduation losses and it's definitely going to be a rebuilding season. They have to replace all 11 starters on defense, the interior of the offensive line and find a new quarterback. They certainly have one of the state's finest tight ends in Perry Sammons, a 6-foot-6, 220-pounder who can block and catch the ball, as well as a capable wide receiver in Tyler Hill. Good things also are expected from running back Joe Altman. Leadership on defense will be up to Mike Norris and Matt Miller as well as defensive backs Tyler Wright and David Thurston.

Bear Creek, 2007: 10-3; Coach: Tom Thenell

The Bears have all the ingredients to make a solid run at the state championship. Nine starters return offensively, led by running back Tommy Flanagan, junior quarterback Zach Thenell, wide receiver Dajuan Mack and tackle Jeremiah Sirles. Thenell was the state's leading passer last season, with more than 3,000 yards and 33 touchdowns. The offensive line is big, talented and quick, a plus to give Thenell plenty of time to seek his receivers. Along with Sirles up front, Jake Utley, Dillon Heitsmith, Chris Shenk, Travis Schaffer and Austin Bennett, should excel.

Chatfield, 2007: 7-4; Coach: Bret McGatlin

The Chargers, with the most depth in the past three seasons, appear set at the skill positions. Look for the offense to open up behind quarterback Sam Stratton, starting for his third season, and a fine receiving corps led by all-league wideout/defensive back Scott Kellogg and tight end Kyle Slavin. Good things are expected once again from running back Brennan Gallegos, who also was all-league as a kick returner. The key performers on the lines will be all-league selections, tackle Tim Torres and center Chris McGee. Defensively, all-league linebacker Luke Gregory and Zach Moisey should be big-time hitters.

Columbine, 2007: 11-1; Coach: Andy Lowry

While the Rebels lost three Division I players, no one is shedding tears. Everyone knows the Rebels simply retool each season. This season, it will be with junior quarterback Danny Spond, who was rated the third-best prospect at a national summer camp in Florida. Also, running back John Roberts rushed for 130 yards in the only game he started last season and, with his 4.7 speed, will be one to watch. Among those supplying the blocks up front will be three-year starter Chris Rogers, Bryce Schwindt, Tanner Russell and Dan Baker. The defense, always a strong point, will be keyed by all-league defensive back Nathan Wiggins, three-year starting linebacker Jacob Wright and a much-improved Bryan Birkeness, also at linebacker.

Lakewood, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Mark Robinson

The youthful Tigers are likely to start five sophomores and an exciting junior. As a result, it might prove difficult to improve on their record of last season. They will have fine leadership in senior quarterback Conner Eppard, one of the state's finest multitalented athletes. The receiving corps will be solid behind Trevor Wilson, Zeb Kimball and Caleb McGraw, all of whom will see action in the defensive secondary with Zach Collins. The running game should be much improved with juniors Joe Hemschoot and David Tucker as the mainstays. Center Tyler Wahl, who also will double at defensive end, will lead a young line.

Pomona, 2007: 7-4; Coach: Jay Madden

Madden said the Panthers are thin when it comes to depth, but what he has left over is more than most teams start with. The best of the bunch is Donovan Bowens, who rushed for 1,803 yards and scored 21 touchdowns. He will need some help finding the holes, but behind all-league tackle Donnie Haupt, starting for his third season, tackle Travis McKee and center Josh Carvalho, he should be fine. The Panthers will employ a two-quarterback system, with juniors Dylan Buononato (a transfer from Mountain Range) and Nate Grimes sharing the chores. When not at quarterback, the other will be at wide receiver. Top returning defenders are tackle Steve Lynn, linebacker Daijon Tyler, and defensive backs Ryan Torrez and Keegan Ryan. Ryan also will double at wide receiver.

Regis Jesuit, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Mike Woolford

The Raiders are an experienced bunch that has been knocked around the past few seasons as underclassmen. Quarterback Kevin Foro-Flahive, who started three games last season, has a fine receiving corps. The unit is led by tight end/defensive end Neeko Virgil and sophomore wide receivers Denzel Washington and Casey Young, who also handles the long-snapping duties. Halfback Alex Bienemann is a threat catching the ball out of the backfield. The lines will be anchored on both sides by Billy Reardon and Jimmy Cunningham. All-league defensive back Greg Gerken will lead the secondary, getting help from Washington and Young.

Westminster, 2007: 1-9 (4A); Coach: Matt Brothers

Even with the consolidated numbers between Ranum (4-6 last season) and Westminster, the Wolves could have a difficult season. Brothers did find that where he had holes to fill from one team, players from the other seemed to fit in. Three players are competing for quarterback, and the eventual starter will have a fine receiver in Matt Edwards. The offensive line has the most experience, where 300-pounders Edgar Marmelego and Moises Alcala, along with Travis Reese and Kyle Riecslager, should stand out. That's a plus for running back Andrew Murray, who also will play at linebacker alongside Seve Sanchez.

CENTENNIAL

Defending state champion Grandview remains a threat despite the graduation of player of the year Bo Bolen. Because of their success and depth from a year ago, the Wolves start the season ranked No. 3. When it comes to this league, they have to consider perennial state contenders Mullen and Cherry Creek. Even with the departure of longtime league members Boulder and Fairview to the Front Range, any of the eight teams are capable of contending. Joining the fray are Arapahoe and Cherokee Trail, which moves up from the Class 4A Skyline League. No one will overlook much-improved Eaglecrest, Overland and Smoky Hill, either.

Arapahoe, 2007: 4-6; Coach: Mike Campbell

With 13 returning starters and a wealth of experience, the Warriors are looking for a strong season as they enter Centennial competition. Eric Dikeman, a first-team all-league pick at tight end, had 40 receptions last season and was honorable mention all-state. He is expected to make the transition to quarterback. Good things also are expected from junior running back Davis Gunter and solid blockers Adam Hickle and Jake Wilson up front. Devin Pullara, all-league at defensive back, also should shine as a receiver. The defense will count on the talents of linebacker Nate Johnson and end Drew Babb.

Cherokee Trail, 2007: 12-1 (4A); Coach: Monte Thelen

The Cougars will get a quick taste of the strong competition in the league as they start with Mullen and Grandview. The defensive secondary, which is led by fleet running backs Antoine Jones and Stephen Dickens (4.46 speed), returns intact. There is only one returnee from the defensive line, but it is four-year starter Patrick Wilson. There is help here, though, as all-leaguer Kendall Gregory- McGee will be going both ways, at defensive end and wide receiver. Offense will be their strength, as center Jack Cody, three-year starting guard Tommy Waldschmidt and tackle Troy Smith make up a formidable front. Michael Tasker, who placed fourth at state in the 110-meter hurdles, also is a fine receiver to complement Gregory-McGee.

Cherry Creek, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Mike Brookhart

The Bruins might not miss a beat offensively as they welcome Boulder transfer and junior quarterback Kain Colter. Colter is a talent whether he passes or runs with the ball. He will complement a super-quick running game paced by DeVaughn Levy (4.4 speed), receiver Tom Papillion and two-way linemen Taylor Paxton and Tyler Bammert. The secondary could be the state's finest, led by all-state defensive back/wide receiver T.J. Shantz, honorable mention all-state pick Charlie Zeller and Papillion. Linebacker Bryan Price also is stout. Up front, Andrew Sachs will be tough to run against.

Eaglecrest, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Tom Doherty

The Raptors struggled last season, but with the return of 12 starters, the optimism is running high. After a year of experience, running back Terrell Thompson (900 yards rushing) and quarterback Paul Anderson (900 yards passing) should excel. Finding top wide receiver Ricky Weber will be key in the offensive attack. Eric Stone and George Solomon, who transferred from Pueblo South, will play key roles on the offensive line. The play from returning defensive end Isaac Okoye, who missed last season because of a leg injury, defensive backs Aaron Swift and Weber, as well as linemen Brennan Bell (50 unassisted tackles) and Anthony Owens looms large.

Grandview, 2007: 12-2; Coach: John Schultz

The talent still is abundant for the defending state champion, despite returning only four offensive and six defensive starters. All-leaguer Matt Tucker, considered the most versatile player for the Wolves last year, could be seeing double duty at defensive back and at quarterback, splitting time at the latter with Cole Walters. All-league receiver Grant Miller should see the ball in his hands a lot. The leaders on the offensive line will be honorable mention all-state center Sean May and tackle Max Nicholson. The defense also will be led by all-league linebacker Todd Knight, all-league defensive back Tyree Davis, Craig Griffiths and ends Jerry Ceja and Jake Bomareto.

Mullen, 2007: 12-1; Coach: Dave Logan

Mullen has won five consecutive league titles. There is a bit of rebuilding to do this season, though. The Mustangs have a super sophomore running back to build around in Adonis Ameen-Moore, with outstanding help expected from Ryan Heagle and Josh Ford. Up front, the big blockers will be Joe Carroll, Dwayne Perosky and honorable mention all-state tight end Ryan Hewitt. Leaders on the defense will be all-league selections - defensive backs Alex Logan, linebacker Hunter Foraker and lineman Nduka Onyeali. Mario Conte will help bolster the secondary working alongside Logan.

Overland, 2007: 5-5; Coach: Tony Manfredi

Only five offensive starters return for the Trailblazers, but two -- running back/defensive back Deshawn Lewis and quarterback/ defensive back Devon Connors -- are special in the option game. Lewis, a member of the state championship 400-meter relay team, has blazing 4.4 speed, and opponents can expect to see the ball in his hands a lot. Connors (4.5 speed) passed for 1,200 yards and rushed for 850. Running back Michael Hall and receiver Robert Davis help give the Blazers an offensive boost. Nick Sampson, Desmond Mosley, Damon Chiles, Jervoise Hollins and newcomer Karsten Porter will anchor the lines.

Smoky Hill, 2007: 5-5; Coach: John Thompson

The Buffaloes are expected to be much improved. They are still on the young side, and Thompson is looking for players who can fill a few big holes, particularly at quarterback. The defense will be the strong point behind all-league defensive back Chase Cooper -- he also is the state pole vault champion -- tackle Mark Sparks, linebacker Wade Brown and third-year starting defensive end Jack Barteldes. The leaders on the offensive line will be center Collin Brooks and tackle Dan Warfield. The Buffs also have a fine tight end in Ervin Farris.

CENTRAL METRO

Of the six 5A leagues, the newest of the lot could be the most intriguing. The league is made up of former teams from 5A's Continental and Denver Prep/Southwest and Class 4A's Denver Prep and Skyline leagues. It also brings the Aurora schools back into the same league, and there is talk among the coaches of claiming a city championship. Denver East, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington from the former DPL appear to be the early front-runners. Aurora Central had the best record among its city teams, but the Trojans were decimated by graduation. Rangeview and Hinkley will be much improved and could have breakout seasons. Montbello, which had to weather three head coaching changes last season, might be rebuilding.

Aurora Central, 2007: 7-3 (4A); Coach: Wade Scott

The Trojans will be on the small side, and they lost a wealth of experience to graduation. Nevertheless, Scott expects them to be competitive. The only offensive starter back is wide receiver Corry Little. He stands only 5-4, 140 pounds but is a three-year starter and extremely quick. He will be a main target, along with tight end Issac Stubblefield (6-4, 220), for sophomore quarterback Shawn Banks. Jean Charles, one of two returning defensive starters, along with linebacker Jeremiah Gadison, will move from receiver to running back. Good things are expected from Aaron Beasley, who will help anchor a young defense from his linebacker position.

Denver East, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Ron Woolfork

The Angels, returning four starters on both sides of the ball, will be inexperienced. But they certainly will be able to build around linebacker DeVaughn Thornton, who also will operate at tight end, and running back Quentin Hildreth, who rushed for 1,200 yards last season. They also have one of the state's premier kickers in Zach Grossnickel, who booted a 52-yarder last season. Lexington Smith, a three-year starter, and Matt Judish once again will be leaders on the lines. Good things also are expected up front from junior Michael Waddy. The secondary will be paced by up-and-coming sophomore Ezekiel Bishop.

Gateway, 2007: 1-9; Coach: Justin Hoffman

The Olympians, who return nine offensive and 10 defensive starters, easily could be one of the quickest teams in the state. They will have to use their speed, since they have only four players who are taller than 6 feet. One is quarterback Jack White (6-0, 195), who has grown into his position after overcoming an anterior cruciate ligament injury as a sophomore. Running back Justin Freeman (5-5, 170), a state wrestling qualifier, knows how to use his body and will be key at the skill positions, along with Ashton Campbell and receivers David Anderson, Abdulai Mansarary and Cameron White. The big guys up front are Dominique Washington (6-4, 255) and Derek Chandler (6-0, 285).

George Washington, 2007: 6-5 (4A); Coach: Steve Finesilver

The Patriots, excited to be back in the 5A ranks, should make a run for the new league's first title. A major switch is being made on offense, as two-year starting quarterback Samuel Casillas will move to fullback, with junior Keenan Black set to call signals. James Browne, who moved from Atlanta last year, stepped in to a starting position at wide receiver and should excel this season. Good things also are expected outside from three-year starting wideout Ryan Pahos, who also handles the kicking chores, and tight end Kendall Ford. Sophomore linebacker Billy Polk also could start at fullback. Leaders on the lines will be Scott Sigman, Tomas Zepada and Nick Wilson.

Hinkley, 2007: 3-7 (4A); Coach: Bob Bozied

With the possible exception of junior quarterback Zach Lopez, who passed for 900 yards last season, there will be a host of players going both ways for the Thunderbirds. They return only four offensive starters and three on defense. Most notable are three-year starters in running back/linebacker Joe Williams and center/defensive tackle Jose Torres. Helping to plug the holes and do the blocking with Torres will be Juan Gallardo and Adam Vaile. While on the small side, senior defensive backs Marcus Harris and James Howard will roam the secondary behind linebacker Jordan Meadows, who also doubles as a wide receiver.

Montbello, 2007: 1-9; Coach: Ryan Taylor

The Warriors definitely struggled last season, but first-year coach Taylor, a Colorado Springs native who has been coaching in Arizona the past six seasons, hopes to get things turned around. Quarterback James Johnson, who also plays linebacker, has the tools to get the job done. He has capable running backs in Savon Cadd and Kendall Robertson. He also will be looking to Mike Marshall as his go-to receiver. All positions on the lines are open, but two-way tackles Gordon Brown and Josh Evans should be the leaders up front. Cadd and Robertson also will see a lot of action in the defensive secondary.

Rangeview, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Dave Gonzales

The Raiders have good numbers out, and while inexperience still is a major factor, Gonzales is going to try to platoon his squad on offense and defense for the first time in his career at the school. Tim Mark is a two-year starter at defensive back but will make the change to quarterback. Good things also are expected from running back Max Baca, who was injured at the end of last season but now is healthy. Chris Brunson and Dan Huddleston are the lone returnees on the offensive line. Enrique Gonzales and Hunter McGinnis return to lead the linebackers, and Robby Ford and Cole Justice will anchor the secondary. All-leaguer Jordan Salter is the lone returnee on the defensive line.

Thomas Jefferson, 2007: 11-1; Coach: Tim Owens

The Spartans return seven players on defense, but there is a lot of work to be done on the offensive side of the ball. Issac Moore, an all-league selection on the defensive line, end Brandon Murray and linebacker Billy Sprague will be the leaders on defense. Senior Brandon Lowe, who has played defensive back and wide receiver, will make the switch to quarterback. He hasn't played the position since he was a freshman. Defensive end Jordan McGee, who didn't play last season, might move to fullback. There, he will team with running back Jordan Puritt, who emerged last season. Christian Carpio is the lone returnee on the offensive line.

FRONT RANGE

Legacy gets the preseason nod to win the league, but the Lightning knows that Rocky Mountain and Poudre loom as serious title contenders. Horizon also appears set to challenge, and Northglenn should be vastly improved after a disastrous 2007 campaign. The big question is how newcomers Boulder and Fairview, which move over from the Centennial League, and Mountain Range, which moves up from the Class 3A Central Metro, make an impact. Fort Collins and Fairview experienced their worst seasons in more than a decade last season, and Boulder made the playoffs despite finishing 2-8 for the third consecutive season. The big jump in classification could be the biggest hindrance to Mountain Range.

Boulder, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Jeff Santee

The Panthers struggled again, so the only way to go is up for first-year coach Santee. Back to help lead the way are the team's leading rusher, Alex Matlin, the second-leading tackler in linebacker Dylan Schwab and versatile two-way lineman Ben Irvine. Irvine will receive help up front on the offensive and defensive lines from Ethan Kreloff. Linebacker Keith Baker is ready to make an impact (he had a team-record five sacks in one game last season). Keith Harris and Andy Kearney should be the leaders in the secondary.

Fairview, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Tom McCartney

The Knights expect to be vastly improved as they return seven starters on both sides of the ball. The quarterback spot will be up for grabs, but the running game should be sharp with Tucker Tharp (4.4 speed) and Kenny Bell, considered the best overall athlete on the team. Finding someone to get the ball to the returning receivers, Hunter Aronson, Sam Bowers and Paul Singh, will be the key. Junior twins Joe and Peter Scherer again will anchor the lines with Andrew Hyde. The ironman at linebacker is Ryan Planchard. He will lead the defense with Aronson, Singh and Bowers.

Fort Collins, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Eric Rice

The Lambkins still are feeling the effect of losing players to crosstown Fossil Ridge, and numerically, the school's enrollment is Class 4A. Wide receiver/defensive back Cody Donaldson, a talent both ways, will make the switch to quarterback. Running back Andre Alverez, with his 4.6 speed in the 40-yard dash, will be a go-to guy this season, too. Only three starters return on defense, but they are solid. Leading the way are defensive back Devin Arruabarrena, linebacker Colton Richard and defensive tackle Eric Danner. Adding depth both ways is tackle Ben Usry, a transfer from Cheyenne Central, defensive end Cole Allenbrand and tackle Caleb Spaulding.

Horizon, 2007: 6-4; Coach: Frank Ybarra

After 22 seniors graduated, there is a bit of rebuilding to do for the Hawks. The running game should be more prevalent because tailback Kevin Owens and halfback Cody Delany appear ready to bloom. And, with the return of Trey Pratt at fullback, the Hawks should be able to churn out the yards. The receiving corps is stout, too, with leading receiver Brandon Fabrizio and tight end Josh Bredl. The challenge will be to find a quarterback. All-league linebacker Zach Koch led the league in sacks last season and had 58 unassisted tackles. He will work behind all-league end Josh Hartner and alongside Ryan Evans, who switches to linebacker from defensive end.

Legacy, 2007: 9-3; Coach: Wayne Voorhees

The defense, behind All-Colorado end Nick Kasa and all-leaguer Ryan Paulson, will be a plus while the Lightning works on rebuilding the offensive line. Alan Tucker and Shawn Jenkins also will play leading roles here. Leading the way behind them will be linebacker Bo Yurko and defensive backs Aston Renshaw and Cam Brown. Getting the offense on track shouldn't take long behind all-league quarterback Luke Bublitz (1,442 yards, 15 TDs) and a solid corps of receivers in Travis Sears, Beau Trigsted, Ryan Cupens and Bryson Romero.

Mountain Range, 2007: 8-2 (3A); Coach: Joe Bravo

The Mustangs are making a huge jump from Class 3A to 5A, but they should be ready. They return 10 starters on offense (no quarterback) and their entire starting defensive unit. Bravo expects Shaun Maestas, the backup signal-caller last year, to step right in. There are only four seniors in the lineup, led by all-state linebacker/running back Ryan Tuley, who led the team in tackles and was selected the Metro League Defensive Player of the Year. The defense also will receive a huge boost from all-league lineman Devon Bessett, defensive end James Kelly, who was all-league as a freshman, and defensive back D.J. Maestas, Shaun's older brother.

Northglenn, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Mike Marquez

State 110-meter hurdle champion Cory Engel was set to make the switch from defensive back to quarterback for the Norse. But with the development of junior Joe Gonzales, Engel now could go at running back and also remain entrenched in the secondary. The go-to receiver among a solid group of returnees could be Raphael McCreary, who just began his football career last season after earning all-league honors the past two years in basketball. Jared Radebaugh, Hank Seick and Chris Chadwick bolster the receiving unit. Supplying the leadership on the offensive line will be all-leaguer Kyle Flynn, Devontae Chapple and Brian Brittner.

Poudre, 2007: 6-4; Coach: Steve Bradley

Bradley has been an assistant at Poudre for the past 26 years, so he is more than familiar with the league and competition. The Impalas are set at quarterback with Jason Haferman, who becomes the first three-year starter at the position in school history. He passed for 1,400 yards last season and his top receivers, Jefferson Clow and Mason Biggi, return. Tailback Josh Morton (1,400 yards rushing) gives the team a solid 1-2 punch. Center Tony Ollila anchors the offensive line. The top two tacklers, linebackers Doug Richau (82 unassisted) and Kenny Piccarreto, along with standout defensive backs Carter Janicki and Biggi, also return.

Rocky Mountain, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Mark Brook

No one is counting the Lobos out of the chase for league and state honors. Leading the way offensively is All-Colorado wide receiver Jake Stewart, who had 58 receptions for 1,229 yards and 18 TDs. Stewart also rushed for 254 yards. Brian Peters, the team's leading tackler, was the backup quarterback last season and will start. He won't be looking only for Stewart, but versatile Michael Liss as well. Questions need to be answered on the offensive line, though. Not so on defense, where Matt Musgrave, Rene Haro-Sypes and Jesse Granger will be leaders. Linebacker Justin Hirsh and defensive backs Jake De Latore and Tyler Parry also will be counted upon.

SOUTHERN

ThunderRidge comes up from the 4A Mountain Plains League, a move several coaches said the Grizzlies should have made a few years ago. The Grizzlies always have been competitive in their non-league games against larger schools, and they can expect more of the same. Rampart also moves up in classification, while Doherty slides over from the South Metro. Douglas County, the state runner-up last year, still will be stout. Mountain Vista and Highlands Ranch should be in the chase once again, and it won't be surprising if either comes through for the title. Chaparral, Palmer and Ponderosa appear to be vastly improved in what could be the state's most competitive 5A league this season.

Chaparral, 2007: 2-8; Coach: John Vogt

With 27 seniors returning, which includes seven starters on offense and eight on defense, the Wolverines could make an impact for the second-year head coach. In addition, three of the top players, who all played injured last season, are healthy. This includes quarterback Jerry Slota, running back David Zimmerman and lineman Derek Whipple. Sophomore wide receiver Jordan Serena should have a breakout season, and good things are expected from tight ends Ryan Murphy and Matt Newton. Up front, the leader will be all-league tackle Jack Harris. Ryan Willson and Kyle Smith key the defensive line, and linebacker Travis Cashion and defensive back Nik Pavlich should excel once again.

Doherty, 2007: 4-6; Coach: Matt Wibbles

It's nice to have a defense to rely on if there are shortcomings offensively. The strength for the Spartans certainly is on defense, since nine starters return. The leaders are all-league linebackers Beau Kelly and Jaden Terry, who probably will be the only two-way starters on the team this season. Others of note are three-year starting defensive back Nick Mitchell and tackle Matt Oesterle. Look for the passing game to get on track behind quarterback Dakota Barr and leading receiver Jesse Porras, who is considered to be the best all-around athlete on the squad. With his 10.8 speed, Kenny Chambers, third at state in the 100 meters, adds to the offensive threat.

Douglas County, 2007: 11-3; Coach: Jeff Ketron

The state runner-up returns four starters on both sides of the ball. When that includes the state's second-leading rusher in All-Colorado selection Jose Astorga (2,200 yards, 25 TDs), it's not hard to figure the Huskies will be in the title mix. Of the 135 players out for the team, 42 are seniors. There also is exceptional leadership up front on the offensive line from all-leaguer Neko Mendez, all-league tight end Mike Miller and Conor Cassidy. The defense will be just as strong, with linebacker Braden Adams and defensive backs Luke Ruff and Jake Kubasta in control. Aaron Hughey and Mike Moudy also will be leaders on the defensive line.

Highlands Ranch, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Darrel Gorham

Only three defensive starters return for the Falcons, but the squad has two premier leaders in two-way lineman Mike Purcell, who was honorable mention all-state, and defensive back/wide receiver Jace Davis. Good things also are expected from defensive back Mike Brady and linebacker Luke Muellen. Mike Jose started at tailback to begin last season, but he was injured and lost valuable playing time. His return certainly is a plus. Gorham is also high on quarterback Mitch Kahl.

Mountain Vista, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Ric Cash

The defense, with only three returning starters, will have to mature early if the Golden Eagles are going to make a run. They will have leadership at linebacker, where sack leader and all-leaguer Eric Sandri returns. Defensive back Bryce Taylor, lineman Derek Ansah and linebacker Brian Caggiano will help bolster the unit. Offensively, quarterback Eric Anderson (1,200 yards passing) and tailback Brandon Miller (650 yards rushing), who both earned honorable mention all-league honors, and wide receiver Cole Seibel, the team's second-leading receiver, will pave the way. Guard Troy Whitmer anchors the offensive line.

Palmer, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Rod Baker

The receiving corps for the Terrors could be the finest in the state, since the top four performers are back and they are explosive. That's good news for junior quarterback Andre Brown, who stepped into the starting lineup for six games last season and passed for 1,200 yards and 18 TDs. Heading the receiving corps is honorable mention all-stater Maurice Blackledge, Zach Hawkins, Sean Pellow and Brandon Lowery. Each had more than 20 catches last season. The return of injured tight end Jeff Nagle will be a plus. Several linemen are expected to go both ways. Leading the way up front will be Roy Denz, Nick Urbaniak, Christian Lorenz and Tucker Walsh.

Ponderosa, 2007: 5-5; Coach: Randy Huff

The Mustangs placed first in the University of Colorado seven-on-seven tournament this summer, making a strong statement that they will be tough on both sides of the ball. Andrew Loudenbach, who started four games as a freshman, will call the signals, and he has an ample corps of receivers. Leading the way is tight end/linebacker Luke Curtis, back from a broken tibia, and wideouts Eric Curtis, Ronnie Searle and Eddie Webber. Terry Alletto, a preseason All-America selection, once again will spark action on the offensive line. Luke Stuckey is expected to excel at running back.

Rampart, 2007: 5-4 (4A); Coach: Dan Olson

With 10 returning offensive starters and seven back on defense, the Rams appear ready to make the jump into the 5A ranks. Quarterback Zane Watkins started eight games last season, passing for 1,200 yards, and tailback Devin Mohn rushed for 1,300 yards in his seven games. Tight end Kreg Jones was the leading receiver, and wide receiver Joey Kingston was second on the squad, but he had the most touchdown receptions. Again, there will be ample protection up front with three-year starter Drew Pierce and Kyle Starling. Linebacker Jerrad VanHorn led the team in tackles and was selected the team's defensive MVP. Josh Brown will lead the defenders up front for the Rams.

ThunderRidge, 2007: 8-3 (4A); Coach: Joe Johnson

The Grizzlies should be competitive in the 5A ranks. One of the main reasons is a healthy Chris Nwoke at running back. Nwoke missed the first two games of last season, and while he continued to play hurt from that point, he earned all-league honors. The Grizzlies will be solid at receiver, with all-leaguer David Arnold, J.C. Coleman and Jared Faulkner expected to play key roles. Patrick Pokryfke, one of the top receivers a year ago, moves to defensive back, where he will help anchor the secondary with former fullback Alex Grado and Matt Walker. Tackle Sam Lavigne and defensive end Chris Graziano will be among the top players on the lines.

SOUTHWEST

Fruita Monument was in a four-team 5A league last season with Denver East, Thomas Jefferson and Montbello. Now, the Southwest is a three-team league, but at least it's in the neighborhood. Grand Junction Central and Grand Junction have moved up to join Fruita. Grand Junction was hit hard by graduation, and with only five starters returning overall (two on offense, three defensively), the move to 5A could prove difficult. Fruita gets the nod as the favorite, but because of the storied rivalries between the three, it's possible they each could end up with 1-1 5A league records.

Fruita Monument, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Bill Moore

The Wildcats should be much improved this season, having returned six offensive and seven defensive starters. That might give them the edge in the league this season. All-league quarterback Brett Nankervis, who passed for more than 1,500 yards last season, and all-league receiver Scott Miller, who might go at tight end, are back. Mike Campbell is a multitalented player, and moving him from receiver to running back should get him the ball more often. Standouts defensively should be all-league linebacker Hunter McClaskey, the team's second-leading tackler, cornerback Brett Dana, tackles Anthony Martin and T.J. Hand and end Matt Remy.

Grand Junction, 2007: 5-5 (4A); Coach: Robbie Owens

Lack of depth could prove detrimental to the Tigers' hopes this season. All five starters from the 2007 offensive line are gone, which means versatile junior running back Jake Brock will have to carefully pick his way through defenders early. He should receive some valuable blocking from fullback Andrew Duff and solid tackle Matt Wilkenson. All-league wide receiver/defensive back Tyler Palmer returns, and Owens believes all-league defensive back Justin Trujillo can step in and help at running back. The Tigers also want to make sure receiver Arshur Berna gets his hands on the football more often. Duff doubles his playing time at linebacker, and good things are expected from sophomore defensive end Casey Walker.

Grand Junction Central, 2007: 3-7 (4A); Coach: Vern McGee

This season will mark the first time in several years the Warriors will be playing 5A teams for keeps. The overall size of the teams they will play is of some concern to McGee. A healthy Holden Reed at quarterback will be a plus, and moving 2007 signal-caller Clay Kame to receiver and defensive back could pay dividends. Good things are expected from running back Nolan Curtis, all-league tight end Ross McGee and wide receiver Blaine Jackson. Trent Harris was all-league at linebacker, and he is expected to lead again here. Nose guard Charlie Payton, who has played just about every position on the team, and defensive tackle Zach Rosales, once again should excel.

Back to Top