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2014 Football Capsules

DIVISION I

SUNRISE REGION

NORTHEAST LEAGUE

CANYON SPRINGS

Head coach: Hunkie Cooper, sixth season (37-16)

2013 record: 9-2 (4-1 Northeast League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): 17 (10 offense, three defense)

Base offensive set: Pro set

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: WR Kujuan Casey (Sr.); RB Zaviontay Stevenson (Sr.); QB Bradley Alexander (Sr.); OT Melvin Johnson (Sr.); WR Clayton Jones (Jr.); WR Kasey Allison (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Ezequiel Lopez (Sr.); LB Greg Banks (Sr.); DB Marcell Selmon (Jr.); FS Christian Minor (Jr.); DT Melvin Johnson (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K Elio Rodriguez (Sr.); KR Zaviontay Stevenson (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB/DB/WR Tre’von Dean

Key losses: DB A.J. Cooper; DT Rayshawn Henderson; DB Raequan Bascombe; LB Isiah Carter

Outlook: Eventual Sunrise Region champion Liberty edged the Pioneers 24-21 in the region semifinals last season. And though there were plenty of key losses to graduation, especially on the defensive side of the ball, expect Canyon Springs to again be among the top teams in the league and region.

Stevenson had a great junior campaign, rushing for 1,203 yards and 10 TDs in earning second team all-state honors.

He should again carry the offense with the help of steady quarterback Alexander.

Alexander completed 56.3 percent of his passes in his first year as a starter last season. He threw for 1,719 yards and 14 touchdowns and was intercepted just four times in earning second team All-Northeast honors.

With plenty of athletic targets, Alexander could post much bigger numbers this season.

Johnson was an all-league pick on both sides of the ball and is back to anchor the lines.

Lopez and Selmon also made the All-Northeast League second team, and should help lead a defensive unit hit hard by graduation.

LAS VEGAS

Head coach: James Thurman, fourth season (21-11)

2013 record: 6-5 (3-2 Northeast League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): 22 (eight offense, seven defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: Even

Top offensive players: QB Trevor Swenson (Sr.); RB Elias Miller (Sr.); WR Sam Blackburn (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Jacob Littlefield (Sr.); DT Will Pierrot (Sr.); DT Dante Ortiz (Sr.); DB Kode Miwirigi (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K Astrid Catalan (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR Montrell Davis (Sr.); DB Zach Loveland (Jr.)

Key losses: RB Andrew Moreland; WR Aaron Zanin-Banks; DT Dakota Pikyavit; DB Justin Taitague

Outlook: Swenson returns for his third year as starting quarterback, and he’s coming off a successful junior season where he passed for 2,638 yards and 28 TDs.

Most of the offense returns, but dynamic weapons and first team all-state picks Moreland and Zanin-Banks will be tough to replace.

Moreland rushed for 1,401 yards and 17 TDs and was the team’s second-leading receiver with 32 catches for 449 yards and four scores.

Zanin-Banks caught 72 passes for 1,1589 yards and 15 TDs.

Miller (483 rushing yards, 10 TDs) will take over at running back, and Blackburn is the top returning receiver (18 catches, 195 yards).

Massive twins Mark Anthony Gacutan and Mark Gil Gacutan return to lead the offensive line along with senior Frankie Valenzuela.

All-state linebacker Littlefield, who had 124 tackles, including 11 tackles for loss and seven sacks, will key the defense.

Pierrot (50 tackles, three sacks) and Ortiz (32 tackles) are back on the defensive line, and Miwirigi (three interceptions) keys the secondary.

Miwirigi also is expected to emerge as one of the team’s top receivers.

“We expect to compete for the league championship,” Thurman said. “We will need to improve every day, every rep and every game.”

LIBERTY

Head coach: Rich Muraco, sixth season (51-14)

2013 record: 10-4 (5-0 Southeast League, first)

Returning lettermen (starters): 30 (9 offense, 9 defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 3-3-5

Top offensive players: RB Ethan Tuilagi (Sr.); RB Calvin Tubbs (Jr.); TE Noah Jefferson (Sr.); WR Ethan Dedeaux (So.); WR Brad Viloria (Sr.); RB/WR Bryan Roland (Jr.)

Top defensive players: DE/DT Noah Jefferson (Sr.); NT Josh Bernard-Lee (Sr.); NT John Groom (Sr.); DB Ethan Dedeaux (So.); DB Bryan Roland (Jr.); LB Ethan Tuilagi (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K Matt Blumberg (Jr.)

Top newcomers: QB Kenyon Oblad (Fr.); OT Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu (So.); QB Daylon Watts (Jr.); DB/LB Preston Pavlica (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Tyler Newman; DE Jarvis Polu

Outlook: The 2013 Sunrise Region champion Patriots lost Review-Journal state player of the year Newman, but return tons of experience in looking to make another postseason run.

Without Newman, who passed for 3,988 yards and 42 TDs, the Patriots may have to lean more on the running game this season.

Running backs Tuilagi (512 yards, 9 TDs) and Tubbs (400 yards, 9 TDs) were among the platoon of backs that shared carries last season, and should play bigger roles this year, especially if freshman Oblad wins the quarterback job.

The top two receivers graduated, but Viloria (22 catches, 520 yards) and the 6-foot-6-inch, 285-pound Jefferson (25 catches, 462 yards) return to offer solid targets.

Bernard-Lee and Daniel Noone (6-1, 285) are returning starters on a massive offensive line that features a pair of 350-pounders.

The defense should be especially strong, with Jefferson, Bernard-Lee (5-11, 270) and Groom (6-2, 280) offering plenty of size up front.

Tuilagi (69 tackles) is the top returning tackler and leads an experienced group of linebackers, and Dedeaux is back to anchor the secondary after an outstanding freshman season where he had 66 tackles and four interceptions.

Without Newman the offense might not be as high-powered, but the Patriots have become an area power and should again contend for the region title.

SILVERADO

Head coach: Andy Ostolaza, eighth season (37-32)

2013 record: 3-7 (2-3 Northeast League, fourth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 15 (four offense, six defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: Multiple

Top offensive players: QB Jarrett Alipio (Sr.); RB Deyon McKinney (Sr.); T Mitchell Kissam (Sr.); G Justin Polu (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB C.J. Araujo (So.); DL Justin Polu (Sr.); CB Jarrett Alipio (Sr.); CB Deyon McKinney (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K Eric McLaughlin (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB/DB Deyon McKinney (Sr.)

Outlook: The Skyhawks were probably better than their record showed last season, dropping a pair of games by eight points or fewer, and two more by 15 or fewer.

McKinney should help the offense right away. He sat out last season after transferring from Sierra Vista where he rushed for 862 yards and passed for 562 as a sophomore.

Alipio moves from running back to quarterback. He only attempted two passes last season, but completed both. More importantly, he’s another running threat after rushing for a team-high 962 yards and 11 TDs.

Kissam and Polu both made the All-Northeast League’s first team, and should anchor a big offensive line to open holes for McKinney and Alipio.

Alipio, who had 33 tackles last season, will lead the secondary and Araujo is coming off a strong freshman season where he recorded 32 tackles at linebacker.

The top of the Northeast League is extremely strong, but Silverado should again be in the mix for a playoff spot.

VALLEY

Head coach: Dave Durham, first season

2013 record: 2-7 (1-4 Northeast League, fifth)

Returning lettermen (starters): Five (two offense, two defense)

Top players: DT/OG Jason Johnson-Keppo (Sr.); QB Iyen Medlock (So.); WB/CB Tyler Ford (Jr.); WR/DB Tyler Jackson (Sr.)

Outlook: First-year coach Durham inherits very little experience, but the coach does have big goals.

“It’s the 50th anniversary at Valley High this year,” Durham said. “We’re trying to start new traditions with the football team and getting back to the winning ways that Valley once enjoyed.”

Durham said he’s tweaked the offensive scheme to give the team a more multiple-front attack.

And the defense has shifted from a 5-2 to a 4-3.

Johnson-Keppo, a first team All-Northeast League pick at defensive tackle last season, will key both lines.

“It’s going to take a while,” Durham said. “They’re picking it up, but it’s still going to take some time and work.”

SOUTHEAST LEAGUE

BASIC

Head coach: Jeff Cahill, seventh season (40-26)

2013 record: 4-6 (3-2 Southeast League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): 16 (1 offense, 1 defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-3-5

Top offensive players: WR Dallon Ellett (Sr.); QB Aeneas McAllister (Jr.); WR Chris Flum (Sr.); WR Brian Evans (Jr.)

Top defensive players: CB Brian Evans (Jr.); DE Kendahl Blakely (Jr.); LB Nathan May (Sr.); OLB Mason Hiedeman (Sr.)

Top special teams players: Walldonzo Whipple (Sr.); KR Jake Waldren (Jr.)

Top newcomers: RB Sean White (Jr.); OL Josh Zemp (Jr.); DE Saul Arizaga (Jr.); WR Frank Harris (So.)

Key losses: QB/RB Antraye Johnson; RB/LB Jon Scoffield; WR David Garza

Outlook: The Wolves have little starting experience returning, and will need to find a way to replace do-everything offensive player Johnson, an all-state pick who was perhaps the state’s top offensive weapon.

Johnson passed for 1,676 yards, rushed for 1,205 yards and even hauled in a couple of passes.

McAllister got some snaps when Johnson shifted to running back or slot receiver, and passed for 54 yards as a sophomore. Much more responsibility will fall on his shoulders this season, especially without Johnson and Scoffield (731 rushing yards).

Flum had 10 catches last season and should lead the receiving corps.

Evans, who had 26 tackles last season, is the top holdover on a defense that allowed 50 or more points four times last year.

CORONADO

Head coach: Brad Talich, third season (13-9)

2013 record: 4-6 (3-2 Southeast League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): 15 (six offense, six defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: Multiple

Top offensive players: QB John Farella (Sr.); WR Tanner Gorski (Sr.); C Alex Epstein (Jr.); WR Mike Simpson (Sr.); TE Travis Boman (Jr.); T Josh Jurgensen (Sr.)

Top defensive players: CB Wade Jacobs (Sr.); S Koy Harris (Sr.); LB Aaron Cotton (Sr.); LB Kianoa Granstrom (Sr.); LB Jordan Rude (Sr.); DE Myles Holland (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K Spencer Cofer (Jr.)

Top newcomers: RB Jordan Patterson (Jr.); WR D.J. Davis (Jr.)

Key losses: QB Jackson Cofer

Outlook: After advancing to the Sunrise Region title game in Talich’s first season, the Cougars regressed last year and finished below .500.

Replacing Cofer, who was an All-Southeast League pick on both sides of the ball will be difficult.

Farella split time with Cofer at quarterback, and completed 61.5 percent of his passes for 756 yards and seven TDs.

He’ll have a strong group of receivers to work with, led by second team All-Southeast League pick Gorski (39 catches, 327 yards) and Simpson (29 catches, 342 yards).

But Cofer (927 rushing yards) was really the team’s only ground threat, so someone must step up to provide at least some sort of running game.

Jurgensen was a first team All-Southeast pick and is back to anchor the offensive line.

Cotton led the team with 78 tackles and earned first team All-Southeast honors.

Talich said key losses on both sides of the line could hurt.

If linemen emerge and the running game develops, the Cougars could end up challenging for a home playoff game.

ELDORADO

Head coach: Vernon Brown, fifth season (10-26)

2013 record: 1-8 (0-5 Southeast League, sixth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 15 (six offense, seven defense)

Base offensive set: Pistol

Base defensive set: 3-3-5

Top offensive players: QB/WR/RB Joshua Brown (Sr.); WR Tyler Spivey (Sr.); OG Luis Villarreal (Sr.); C Austin Hight (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DL Luis Villarreal (Sr.); DB Joshua Brown (Sr.); DB Carl Crayon (Jr.); DL Quinn Edwards (Sr.); DB David Hernandez (Sr.); DL Reydin Dennis (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB/TE Deven Dabbs (Jr.); WR/DB Michael Davis (Jr.); OL/DL Terrell Michalowski (Jr.); LB/TE Joseph Torres (Jr.)

Key losses: LB Ta’Varea Shelton; LB Deandre Taylor; DL/WR Tichad Simmons

Outlook: The Sundevils struggled a year ago, ekeing out a win against Sunrise Mountain in Week 3, but managing little success the rest of the season.

Still, coach Brown is upbeat entering the season, and expects big things from Joshua Brown, Spivey, Villarreal and Dennis.

Joshua Brown saw time at multiple positions last season, and that could be the case again. He passed for 445 yards and four TDs, rushed for a team-high 348 yards and five TDs and caught seven passes for 128 yards and a score.

If Dabbs can emerge at quarterback, it will free Joshua Brown to play other positions and give the team more weapons.

Spivey was the team’s top receiver with 30 catches for 337 yards and three TDs.

Villarreal (52 tackles, three sacks) and Dennis (37 tackles) should key the defense.

“If Deven Dabbs can continue to improve at the (quarterback) position, then the Sundevils will be able to make a push for the playoffs,” Vernon Brown said.

FOOTHILL

Head coach: Marty Redmond, 10th season (57-41)

2013 record: 5-5 (3-2 Southeast League, fourth)

Top offensive players: QB Nick Gardner (Sr.), OL Sam Martin (Sr.); RB Robert Merritt (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Aedan Bartolowits (Sr.), LB Josh Ozuna (Sr.), DB Robert Merritt (Sr.); LB Josh Hughes (Sr.); DB Cory Fisher (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Drew Doxtator, WR David Persi, WR Ian Ellis, TE Bryce Broadwell, WR George Chumas, LB Rocky Bellini, DL Dylan Weasa

Outlook: The Falcons have made the playoffs for six consecutive seasons and should be in the mix again this season.

Gardner passed for 926 yards and 13 TDs with just two interceptions last season while filling in for the injured Doxtator.

The receiving corps may prove more difficult to replace. Persi, Ellis, Broadwell and Chumas combined for 186 catches last season.

Martin was a second team all-league pick at offensive tackle and will key the line.

Ozuna recorded 55 tackles and four sacks and should have a big role on the defense.

GREEN VALLEY

Head coach: Brian Castro, fourth season (23-10)

2013 record: 9-3 (5-0 Northeast League, first)

Returning lettermen (starters): 30 (six offense, six defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: QB Christian Lopez (Sr.); RB Albert Lake (Sr.); RB Larry Norman (Sr.); G Carter Nielson (Sr.); C Tafa Vete (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Larry Norman (Sr.); DB Albert Lake (Sr.); LB David Berg (Jr.); DL Cordell Tidwell (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR Brayon Williams (Jr.); LB Nathan McAloon (Sr.): WR Dokata Prussia (Sr.)

Key losses: OT/DT Tyrell Crosby; WR/DB Gio Hernandez; WR Markus Varner; WR/DB Kyler Chavez

Outlook: Realignment moves the Gators back to the Southeast League after they won the Northeast League the last two seasons.

Lopez was a second team all-state pick last season after passing for 3,455 yards and 34 TDs. He also rushed for 231 yards and 10 scores.

But he lost his top four receivers to graduation, so newcomers must emerge to keep the passing game at the level it was last season.

Norman (857 yards, 8 TDs) and Lake (676 yards, 6 TDs) are back to share carries again and lead the ground game, and Nielson and Vete give the team a pair of experienced offensive linemen. Nielson is in his fourth year as a starter, and Vete will be starting for the third season.

Norman and Lake should key the defense as well from positions in the secondary.

Norman led the team with 84 tackles last season, and Lake intercepted five passes to snag second team all-state honors.

Crosby’s graduation will be felt on both sides of the line.

“The loss of our four starting (receivers) and (offensive tackle) Tyrell Crosby has left big holes to fill,” Castro said. “We return some talented seniors that must learn to lead by example and hard work. We do have some talented young kids that need to learn to play with passion and discipline.”

SUNSET REGION

NORTHWEST LEAGUE

ARBOR VIEW

Head coach: Dan Barnson, eighth season (51-24)

2013 record: 8-3 (4-1 Northwest League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): 26 (six offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Double wing

Base defensive set: 4-2-5

Top offensive players: OL Malik Noshi (Sr.); RB Herman Gray (Sr.); OL Keenan King (Jr.)

Top defensive players: DL Malik Noshi (Sr.); LB Bishop Jones (Jr.); LB Gage Motl (Jr.)

Top special teams players: KR Maurice Harvey (Sr.)

Key losses: Jacob Speaks; Devon Turner; Salah Boyce; Anthony Smith

Outlook: The Aggies have churned out rushing yards every year since installing the double wing, and this year should be no exception.

Even with the graduation of Smith (896 rushing yards), Speaks (676 rushing yards) and Turner (436 rushing yards), Arbor View should be able to find enough backs to continue to move the ball on the ground.

Gray, who is in his third year as a starter, should be the go-to back. He rushed for 647 yards and a team-high 10 TDs last season.

Noshi, a second team all-state pick, and King, who has a scholarship offer from Arizona State, give the Aggies a pair of outstanding linemen.

Jones, who has an offer from Southern Utah, led the team with three sacks last season and also had 35 tackles. Motl recorded 36 tackles, and gives the team another experienced linebacker.

Harvey was an All-Northwest League return man, and could excel on special teams.

Look for Arbor View to again be among the best in the league.

BONANZA

Head coach: Kevin Volcic, second season (3-6)

2013 record: 3-6 (0-5 Southwest League, sixth)

Returning lettermen (starters): Nine (three offense, four defense)

Base offensive set: I-formation

Base defensive set: 3-5-3

Top offensive players: RB Chilo Dore (So.); WR Jacob Perez (Jr.); WR ByJon Large (Sr.); FB Hector Montenegro (Sr.); OG Taalolomana Tufele (Jr.)

Top defensive players: ILB Hector Montenegro (Sr.); DE Taalolomana Tufele (Jr.); DB DeShawn Williams (Jr.)

Top special teams players: PR Jacob Perez (Jr.); KR Chilo Dore (So.)

Top newcomers: RB/KR Chilo Dore (So.); C/MLB Ammon Montenegro (So.); TE/OLB Nathan Fales (So.); QB Cannon Reid (Fr.)

Key losses: QB/OLB Tyler Penkalski; RB/OLB Carlos Soto; ATH Jayveon Taylor; WR DeAndre Garcia; OG Jordan Knapp; ILB Daniels Stewart; ILB Justin Nakata

Outlook: Though the Bengals showed some flashes of being a playoff team early, things didn’t finish well and the team was winless in the Southwest League.

And graduation hit Bonanza hard, taking 27 seniors, including the team’s leading passer, top four rushers and top four receivers.

Bonanza also lost top offensive lineman, Knapp, who is playing at Colorado Mesa.

Still, Volcic has increased expectations for his squad, including a return to the playoffs for the first time since 2011.

Volcic said the team also hopes to beat rival Spring Valley for the fourth consecutive season and beat Desert Oasis for the first time. The Bengals are 0-5 against the Diamondbacks.

CENTENNIAL

Head coach: Leon Evans, fifth season (30-16)

2013 record: 6-5 (4-1 Southwest League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): Nine (two offense, six defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 4-2

Top offensive players: TE Joseph Ceniseros (Sr.); OL Andrew Miller (Sr.); OL Jordan Lewis (Sr.); WR Brandan Harley (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Samuel Liaga (Sr.); DL Justin Shellard (Sr.); DL Greg Rogers (So.); LB Dieyon Scott (Sr.); DB Nick Humenick (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K/P Zach Mays (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB Rhamodre Stevenson (Jr.); QB Juan Rodriguez (Jr.); QB Jamaal Evans (So.); WR Tyler Hennis (Jr.); WR Andre Meiers (So.); LB Tishawn Barnaby (Jr.); WR Savon Scarver (So.); WR Juan Puentas (So.); OL Jacob Kelly (So.)

Key losses: RB Lantz Worthington; OL Nathan Gifford; RB Josh Gray

Outlook: The Bulldogs started slowly in 2013, but rallied to advance to the Sunset Region semifinals where they lost 42-14 to Palo Verde.

Centennial posted some strong defensive performances, and will need to be good on that side of the ball again this season to help make up for an inexperienced offense.

Samuel Liaga, who picked off seven passes and had 81 tackles, is back to lead an experienced defensive group.

Scott (51 tackles) should key the linebackers, and Shellard is back on the line after recording 39 tackles and three sacks.

The offense is far less experienced.

Worthington (994 rushing yards) and Gray (334 rushing yards) provided much of the punch last season on the ground, and must be replaced as does quarterback Coll Thomson (1,013 passing yards).

Whoever wins the quarterback job will have the advantage of some experienced receivers, with Harley (21 catches, 356 yards) and Ceniseros (11 catches, 168 yards) back.

Mays was a first team All-Southwest League kicker and gives the team a weapon on special teams.

CIMARRON-MEMORIAL

Head coach: John Parcells, fourth season (15-14)

2013 record: 6-4 (2-3 Southwest League, fourth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 12 (three offense, four defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple, Pro-style

Base defensive set: Multiple, 40 front

Key losses: RB Michael Barnson; LB Wayne May; OT Jeffery Prince; C Tim Wooters

Outlook: The Spartans are not the power they once were, but made the playoffs again last season after missing for three consecutive years.

Parcells will need to find a replacement for Barnson, who provided much of the offense last season, rushing for 1,400 yards and 10 TDs.

“This 2014 team can be as good as it decides to be,” Parcells said. “We have talent, depth and a good mix of experience and youth.

“The level of success we achieve will be determined by consistent decision-making and playing for the man next to you rather than playing only for yourself.”

DESERT OASIS

Head coach: Marcus Sherman, first season

2013 record: 4-5 (1-4 Southwest League, fifth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 20 (two offense, one defense)

Base offensive set: Pro

Base defensive set: 5-2

Top offensive players: QB Qwade Huff (Sr.); FB Franco Rocco (Sr.); OL Jonah Levy (Sr.); OL Ryan Knipp (Jr.)

Top defensive players: DL Devin Ford (Sr.); CB Malik Batiste (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR Amari Tatum (Jr.)

Key losses: RB Jocquez Kalili

Outlook: New head coach Sherman takes over a program that missed the playoffs last season after making four straight appearances.

He’ll have to find a replacement for Kalili, an all-state pick who rushed for 1,633 yards and 23 TDs last season in earning the Southwest League’s Offensive MVP award.

Tatum was the leading receiver for Sherman at Valley last season with 28 catches for 268 yards. He also rushed for 245 yards.

Batiste also was at Valley last season, and he had 18 catches for 166 yards and rushed for 169 yards. He was a second team All-Northeast League pick at cornerback.

Both should help right away.

Knipp and Levy return to anchor the line. Knipp made the All-Southwest second team at guard last season.

Sherman said he expects a return to the playoffs.

SOUTHWEST LEAGUE

BISHOP GORMAN

Head coach: Tony Sanchez, sixth season (71-5)

2013 record: 13-2 (5-0 Southwest League, first)

Returning starters: Six offense, six defense

Top offensive players: TE Alize Jones (Sr.); WR Cordell Broadus (Sr.); RB Russell Booze (Sr.); QB Danny Hong (Sr.); OL Ethan Palelei (Sr.); OL Jackson Perry (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DE Ryan Garrett (Sr.); DT Noah Tialavea (Sr.); LB Nela Otukolo (Sr.); SS Nicco Fertitta (Sr.); CB Jabari Butler (Sr.)

Top special teams players: K/P Gage Wilson (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB Biaggio Walsh (So.); FS Damuzhea Bolden (So.); LB Ikem Okeke (Jr.); WR/CB Tyjon Lindsey (So.)

Key losses: QB Randall Cunningham; WR Terrance Chambers; C/DT Zack Singer; OT Nick Gates; LB Chris Lalli; LB Kenyon Coker; RB Daniel Stewart

Outlook: The Gaels have been far-and-away the top team in the state in recent years.

Now they’re out to prove that they’re the top team in the country, as they’re ranked No. 1 in the nation by USA Today.

The 6-foot-4-inch, 226-pound Jones (35 catches, 571 yards, 10 TDs) might be the nation’s top tight end, and will team with the 6-3, 190-pound Broadus to form a potent one-two receiving duo for first-year starting quarterback Hong.

Booze (886 yards, 15 TDs) will share time at running back with junior Jonathan Shumaker (579 yards, 8 TDs) and sophomore Biaggio Walsh, who Sanchez says is the team’s fastest player.

Palelei (6-0, 285) and Perry (6-3, 285) are back to anchor another massive offensive line.

Tialavea was a second team all-state pick, as was Otukolo, who Sanchez calls “one of a kind.”

Fertitta, who has committed to Notre Dame, and Butler, another Division I recruit, will anchor a deep secondary.

The Gaels play a tough schedule, so someone might knock them off. But the chances of it being a team from Nevada appear slim.

DURANGO

Head coach: Matt Gerber, third season (5-14)

2013 record: 0-9 (0-5 Northwest League, sixth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 11 (four offense, four defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-5

Top offensive players: RB Leontre Austin (Jr.); WR Kavon Asgari (Sr.); OL Elijah Colbert (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Artie Gallegos (Sr.): LB Kavon Asgari (Sr.)

Outlook: The Durango offense was dismal last season, as the Trailblazers were shut out three times and never scored more than 20 points in a game.

But Gerber is confident the team can be stronger offensively thanks to a group of young quarterbacks and receivers.

Austin was the team’s top rusher with 197 yards and two TDs last season.

The 275-pound Colbert will anchor the line, and the Durango roster does include some good size.

Gerber said the defensive backs will lead an aggressive defense.

“The team will be young with eight sophomores up on the varsity looking to compete for quality minutes and many other new players on the team this season,” Gerber said. “Game-to-game improvement is the main focus of the team this season.”

LEGACY

Head coach: John Isola, first season

2013 record: 6-4 (3-2 Southwest League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): Six (two offense, two defense)

Base offensive set: Pro set

Base defensive set: 3-5

Top offensive players: RB DeMichael Walker (Sr.); RB/FB Tiyen Geeslin (Jr.); WR Kourde Roberts (Sr.); QB Tanoa Alapati (Jr.)

Top defensive players: CB D’Angelo Lindsey; S Kevion Johnson; LB A.J. Sotello (Jr.)

Top special teams players: Maurice Nelson (Sr.)

Top newcomers: Kourde Roberts, Kirone James

Key losses: Casey Hughes; Josh Phillips; Matt Link; Zach Lurgis

Outlook: Isola replaces Dave Snyder, who started the program and went 40-40 in eight seasons, which included a Northwest League title in 2009..

The Longhorns lost some strong athletes, but the cupboard isn’t bare.

While speedster Casey Hughes (1,034 rushing yards, 14 TDs) is now playing at Utah, Isola still has one home-run threat in his backfield with Walker, who rushed for 1,001 yards and 11 TDs as a junior.

The team also must replace quarterback Devin Williams (553 passing yards, 7 TDs), who was a second team All-Southwest League pick last season.

Defensively, the team must find replacements for several key cogs including leading tackler Phillips (75 tackles).

But Isola thinks his young team is athletic enough to compete every week, especially if the Longhorns get strong contributions from the senior class.

PALO VERDE

Head coach: Darwin Rost, 19th season (147-46)

2013 record: 10-2 (5-0 Northwest League, first)

Returning lettermen (starters): 22 (five offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Double wing/Pistol

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Darrion Finn (Sr.); TE Jordan Bruner (Sr.); RB Jaren Campbell (Sr.); C Joey Laurita (Sr.); G Daniel Heller (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Graeson Vereen (Sr.); DB Darrion Finn (Sr.); LB Jordan Bruner (Sr.); LB Jaren Campbell (Sr.); LB Chauntez Thomas (Jr.)

Top special teams players: Graeson Vereen (Sr.); Darrion Finn (Sr.); Jaren Campbell (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB/DB Isaac Woods (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Parker Rost; TE/OLB Jake Ortale; FB/DB Sean Dennis; RB/DB Calvin Beaulieu; OT/DT Michael Hughes; OT/DE Griffin Kemp; OG/DE Josh Hamilton

Outlook: The Panthers lost quite a bit of talent to graduation, including all-state picks Ortale, Hughes, Kemp and Hamilton along with Parker Rost, who was the Northwest League’s Offensive MVP.

Leading rusher Campbell (942 yards, 6 TDs) is back and will play a key role on both sides of the ball.

He was a second team All-Northwest League linebacker, and is the team’s top returning tackler with 67.

Finn figures to play a bigger offensive role, and Laurita, a second team All-Northwest League pick, is back to anchor the offensive line.

On defense, Vereen (five interceptions, 46 tackles) will key the secondary, with Thomas (34 tackles, five sacks) joining Campbell in leading the linebackers.

Replacing the defensive line, where Hughes, Hamilton and Kemp combined for 179 tackles and 25 sacks, may be the biggest key to the team’s success.

If the team is able to put together solid lines, the Panthers could again make a run in the Sunset Region playoffs. Palo Verde has played in the region title game 10 times since 2002.

SHADOW RIDGE

Head coach: Frank Tousa, fourth season (7-22)

2013 record: 5-5 (3-2 Northwest League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): 15 (four offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-4

Top offensive players: OL Jordan Larson (Sr.); OL Tra Forrest (Sr.); TE Michael Payton (Sr.); WR/RB Melvin Johnson (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DE Malivai Meyer (Sr.); DE Tra Forrest (Sr.); LB Bryce Alexander (Sr.); DB Nick Patrick (Sr.); DB Chris Tibeaux-Moore (Sr.)

Top special teams players: P Bryce Alexander (Sr.)

Top newcomers: TE/DE Harold Bell (Jr.)

Key losses: LB J Henderson; LB Reece Lofthus; DB Eric Peeples; RB Cody Alfar

Outlook: The Mustangs lost several key cogs from last year’s playoff team, including second team all-state linebacker Henderson, who doubled as the team’s top receiver.

Also gone is Alfar (1,228 rushing yards) and Dustin Puia (1,278 passing yards), meaning Shadow Ridge will need to replace much of its offense.

There is strength on the offensive line where Larson was a first team All-Northwest League pick at guard and Forrest was second team at tackle.

Johnson is the top returning skill player. He rushed for 205 yards and was the team’s No. 3 receiver with 14 catches for 232 yards.

On defense, Patrick was a second team all-league pick at safety, and was second on the team with 58 tackles.

“We have a very tough schedule and we hope to compete on a weekly basis,” Tousa said. “We hope to gain experience with our new players and be competitive in our division.”

DIVISION I-A

SUNRISE LEAGUE

BOULDER CITY

Head coach: Alex Kazel, seventh season

2013 record: 4-6 (2-3 Sunrise League, fourth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 22 (seven offense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: QB Trenton Carmel (Sr.); WR Brooks Roe (Sr.); TE Jake Jurgschat (Sr.); G Jack Rozycki (Sr.); G Andrew Sands (Sr.); TE Jacob Gneiting (Jr.); RB Logan Branscum (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Jacob Jurgschat (Sr.); SS Brooks Roe (Sr.); DT Jack Rozycki (Sr.); DT Andrew Sands (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR Zach Murphy (Jr.)

Outlook: Boulder City secured the last playoff spot in the Sunrise last season before falling 62-7 to eventual state champion Faith Lutheran in the first round.

The Eagles, who will be looking for their third consecutive playoff appearance, return starting quarterback, Carmel, along with six other offensive starters.

Roe appears to be the go-to-guy this season, as he led the team in sacks and receiving a season ago.

The team will have to replace linebacker Dillon Prach, who led the team with 88 tackles, and their top two offensive scorers in Sam Woodbury and Xavier Steel.

“We will compete on every down,” Kazel said. “We will have a physical, disciplined and unselfish approach to the game of football.”

CHAPARRAL

Head coach: Paul Nihipali, first season

2013 record: 3-6 (1-4 Sunrise League, fifth)

Key losses: Justin Alpha; James Dukes

Outlook: Chaparral continued its six-year playoff drought last season, finishing fifth in the Sunrise League.

The Cowboys showed life towards the end of the season, narrowly losing to Desert Pines (23-22) and Boulder City (14-8).

Nihipali enters his first year in the program, hoping to build a solid foundation for the future.

DEL SOL

Head coach: Gary Maki, second season (1-8)

2013 record: 1-8 (1-4 Southeast League, fifth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 18 (five offense, six defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 3-5-3

Top offensive players: QB/RB Rashaun Lawson (Sr.); OL Jesus Olivas (Sr.); FB Daniel Tyus (Sr.); OL Trevor Lytle (Sr.)

Top defensive players: FS Nick Ayala (Sr.); DL Johnny Gresham (Sr.); DL/K Josue Aguirre (Sr.); DL Carlos Santana (Sr.)

Top special teams players: P/PK Josue Aguirre (Sr.)

Top newcomers: LB Juan Fuentes (Sr.); RB/LB Nate Bryan (Jr.)

Key losses: TE/LB Leo Delatorre; TE/LB Josh Wheeler

Outlook: Del Sol won just one game in Division I last season, a 28-20 victory over Eldorado in its final game.

The Dragons, now a Division I-A school, hope the winning becomes more frequent. Lawson will lead the way as he splits time between quarterback, running back and defensive back.

Seniors Olivas and Lytle are back on the offensive line for the Dragons, who return five starters on offense and six on defense.

“The boys have been working hard since May when we started preparing for camp and carried the effort through the summer into August,” Maki said. “Hopefully the hard work pays off as we move into the I-A Division with hopes of contending for a playoff spot. We believe we need to get off to a fresh start to gain momentum for this to happen, but believe we have worked hard enough in the off-season to deserve to win.”

DESERT PINES

Head coach: Tico Rodriguez, second season (9-2)

2013 record: 9-2 (4-1 Sunrise League, second)

Key losses: Iquan Corsey; Malik Davis; Tim Hough; Eric Wilkes

Outlook: After earning the No. 2 seed in the Sunrise last season, Desert Pines found itself in the state quarterfinals before losing 48-41 to eventual state champion Faith Lutheran in a shootout.

The Jaguars hope to build on that success, but must overcome the loss of some key offensive weapons, including the one-two punch of Corsey and Wilkes in the backfield. Corsey threw for 1,638 yards and 25 touchdowns, and Wilkes rushed for 1,024 and 13 TDs a season ago. Both were second team Division I-A all-state selections at their respective positions.

They must also replace UNLV-signee Hough, who had 760 receiving yards and 15 total touchdowns, before being selected first team all-state at wide receiver and cornerback by I-A coaches.

MOAPA VALLEY

Head coach: Brent Lewis, 13th season

2013 record: 11-1 (5-0 Sunrise League, first)

Returning lettermen (starters): 15 (five offense, four defense)

Base offensive set: Wing T, Spread

Base defensive set: 4-4

Top offensive players: QB Zach Hymas (Sr.); FB Andrew Huerta (Sr.); RB Kaleb Bodily (Sr.); WR Cole Mulcock (Sr.); WR R.J. Hubert (Jr.)

Top defensive players: LB Andrew Huerta (Sr.); LB Jose Rios (Jr.); DB Cole Mulcock (Sr.); DB R.J. Hubert (Jr.)

Top special teams players: KR/PR R.J. Hubert (Jr.); KR/PR Cole Mulcock (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR/DB R.J. Hubert (Jr.); RB/LB Sterling Simmons (Jr.)

Key losses: RB/LB Justin Hughes; OL/DL Matt McDermand; OL/DL Sam Rebman

Outlook: Moapa Valley always is one of the top teams in Division I-A, and this season doesn’t look to be different under 13th-year coach Lewis.

The Pirates are coming off an 11-1 season, where they went undefeated in the Sunrise division, and made it to the state semifinals before losing 34-24 to Churchill County.

They return 15 lettermen, including senior quarterback Hymas, who passed for 1,812 passing yards and 25 touchdowns last season. Moapa also returns a solid backfield in Huerta (500 yards rushing) and Bodily (681 yards rushing, 10 TDs), and a pair of weapons on the perimeter in receivers Mulcock and Hubert, who will both return kicks as well.

“We have great skill kids returning and joining us from the JV,” Lewis said. “We feel like we have plenty of weapons to spread the ball around.”

The Pirates have to find a way to improve their line and defense after the huge losses of UNR-signee McDermand, Rebman and Hughes.

Lewis expects to challenge for both the league and state titles.

“If we can get our kids coached up, we feel good about making another run for a title,” he said.

SUNRISE MOUNTAIN

Head coach: Chris Sawyers, first season

2013 record: 1-8 (0-5 Sunrise League, sixth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 16 (six offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Wanya Calahan (Sr.); WR Damon Heard (Sr.)

Top defensive players: OL/DL Dallin Areno (Sr.)

Key losses: RB/S Sherman Nash; RB/CB RoMello Tatum; OL/LB Darryl Colvin; LB/WR Daquwan Doyle

Outlook: Sunrise Mountain has had a tough time building a football program since the school opened in 2009.

Sawyers, who coached at Virgin Valley last season, takes over a program that has won just two games in school history. He hopes his spread offense can change that and bring some success to the school.

The Miners are led by senior Calahan, who passed for 607 yards and rushed for 451 a season ago.

“This team has the opportunity to be the best team in Sunrise Mountain history,” Sawyers said.

VIRGIN VALLEY

Head coach: Yori Ludvigson, first season

2013 record: 8-3 (3-2 Sunrise League, third)

Base offensive set: Spread, Pistol

Base defensive set: 5-3

Top offensive players: RB Junior Paongo (Sr.); OL Brandon Haun (Sr.)

Top defensive player: LB Brayden Lee (Sr.)

Key losses: QB Garrett Leavitt; WR DeVonte Milligan

Outlook: Virgin Valley had an impressive campaign a season ago under Chris Sawyers, who took over for division rival Sunrise Mountain.

The Bulldogs lost just three games a season ago, including two to Moapa Valley, last season’s No. 1 seed in the Sunrise. Now, under Ludvigson, the Bulldogs look to return to the playoffs for the 14th consecutive season.

Virgin Valley lost several key players to graduation, most notably on the offensive side. Quarterback Leavitt, running back Dee Bowler, and receiver Milligan all are gone after being selected first team all-state by the Division I-A coaches.

Paongo, Haun and Lee are the top returning players for Virgin Valley.

“They’ve come along way this summer, so I’m excited to see them get rolling,” Ludvigson said.

SUNSET LEAGUE

CHEYENNE

Head coach: David Cochran, fifth season (21-20)

2013 record: 2-8 (2-3 Sunset League, fourth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 15 (eight offense, seven defense)

Base offensive set: Double Wing

Base defensive set: Four-man front

Top offensive players: OL Erwin Burrell (Sr.); TE/DL Joe Rose (Sr.); TE/DE Kyle Power (Sr.); RB/LB Jordan Johnson (Sr.); QB A.J. McConnico (Jr.)

Top defensive players: FB/TE/LB George Carmona (Jr.); RB/LB Jordan Johnson (Sr.)

Top special teams players: RB/DB/KR Zavieh Harrell (Jr.)

Top newcomers: ATH Darrly Jones (Sr.)

Key losses: OL Terry Dodd IV; ATH Deonte Perkins

Outlook: Cheyenne needed just two wins to get into the playoffs last season before losing in the first round to Moapa Valley, 47-0.

The Desert Shields will improve with 15 returning starters, including eight on offense. McConnico is behind center once again, and will be helped out by running back Johnson and lineman Burrelll, both second-team all-conference selections last season.

Linebackers Johnson and Carmona will be the anchors in the middle of the defense.

Cheyenne must find a way to overcome the losses of first-team all-conference players Dodd and Perkins. Perkins led the team in scoring, receiving and interceptions, and was second in rushing.

“(We hope) to get back on track from the semifinal team from 2012,” Cochran said. “Fifteen returners from last year should pay off with a better campaign in the 2014 season.”

CLARK

Head coach: Don Willis, ninth season (22-55)

2013 record: 4-6 (2-3 Sunset League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): 16 (seven offense, seven defense)

Base offensive set: Spread, multiple

Base defensive set: 3-3-5

Top offensive players: WR Marquice Stuart (Sr.); RB Milan Dixon (Jr.); OL Jon Aldana (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DL Jobany Alanis (Sr.); LB Robert Ahearn (Jr.); LB Tyrek Wells (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB Nick Kinnard (So.)

Key losses: RB/DB Clifton Smith; OL/DL Edwin Centeno; OL/DL Alexander Floyd

Outlook: Clark made the playoffs for the first time since 2002 last season when it captured the Sunset League’s No. 3 seed.

The Chargers return 14 total starters, including Dixon, who led the team with 726 yards rushing and 11 total TDs.

Stuart is back after hauling in 244 receiving yards and three touchdowns, and adding three interceptions on defense. Stuart also finished second on the team in tackles.

Clark was hit hard on the offensive and defensive lines due to graduation, but the Chargers return a solid core of skill players and look to compete.

Willis said he’s “putting a lot of focus on (the line)” and hopes the team can “build off making the playoffs last year.”

FAITH LUTHERAN

Head coach: Vernon Fox, second season (12-2)

2013 record: 12-2 (5-0 Sunset League, first)

Returning lettermen (starters): 19 (six offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Pro style multiple offense

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: OT John Molchon (Sr.); OT Austin Prather (Sr.); OG Max McPherson (Sr.); WR Mark Rubalacaba (Sr.); WR/RB Christian Marshall (So.)

Top defensive players: S Tyler Mahan (Sr.); CB Mark Rubalacaba (Sr.); DB Christian Marshall (So.)

Top special teams players: KR Christian Marshall (So.)

Top newcomers: RB Alfred Soboyejo IV (Sr.); OG Cameron Meredith (So.)

Key losses: LB Ben Flandermeyer; LB Danny Otuwa; LB Dylan DeFrank; WR/DB Vinnie DeGeorge; RB Keenan Smith; K Trent Dolby

Outlook: Faith Lutheran is coming off its first state championship in school history and is riding a 12-game win streak coming into 2014.

The Crusaders will compete once again this season, but they will have to overcome the loss of 18 seniors, including first team all-state players Flandermeyer, Otuwa, DeGeorge and Dolby.

They also must find a replacement for Smith, who rushed for 1,124 yards and 22 TDs last season. The Crusaders will benefit with a big returning line, which includes Molchon, Prather and McPherson. Molchon and Prather were selected as all-state linemen last season.

“This team will be led by the (lines),” Fox said. “Size and strength will be the strength of this team and the big boys up front will lead the way in a powerful running game. With explosive skill players on both sides of the ball, this team will have a good opportunity to be successful.”

First team all-league Rubalacaba looks to improve on his 431 yards receiving and three touchdowns last season, and Marshall returns after an impressive freshman campaign on varsity.

“A 1-0 mentality and not looking ahead or behind is the motto of this team,” Fox said. “Forget pressure to repeat as state champions, it’s literally one game at a time.”

MOJAVE

Head coach: Joe Delgado, fourth season (14-16)

2013 record: 6-4 (4-1 Sunset League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): 28 (eight offense, eight defense)

Base offensive set: Pistol

Base defensive set: 4-2-5

Top offensive players: QB Zack Arave (Sr.); RB Ty Flanagan (Sr.); WR Jaylon Delgado (Jr.); C Frankie Contreras (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Kaleb Friedman (Jr.); DT Daijon Payno (Jr.)

Outlook: Mojave was the second seed in the Sunset League before having a disappointing first-round setback against Virgin Valley, 27-0.

The Rattlers return eight starters on each side of the ball, including first team all-state running back Flanagan, who rushed for 1,275 yards.

Quarterback Arave returns after passing for 683 yards and rushing for 723.

On defense, second team all-league players Friedman and Payno are back to make some noise in the front seven.

Delgado would like to “advance further in the playoffs…but also look at one game at a time and get better each week.”

PAHRUMP VALLEY

Head coach: Joe Clayton, third season (5-14)

2013 record: 3-6 (2-3 Sunset League, fifth)

Outlook: Pahrump Valley just missed the playoffs last season after losing a tiebreaker to Cheyenne and Clark.

The Trojans, under third-year coach Clayton, return the majority of their team and look to be competitive in the Sunset League.

Samuel Tucsnak, the team’s top returning defender (88 tackles), returns alongside seniors Deon Estes and Keenan Harris.

Pahrump Valley must find someone to fill the hole of departing Scott Maughan, arguably the team’s top player last season. Maughan rushed for 716 yards and 10 touchdowns and was second on the team with 75 tackles a season ago.

SIERRA VISTA

Head coach: John Foss, second season (2-7)

2013 record: 2-7 (1-4 Northwest League, fifth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 21 (six offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Double wing

Base defensive set: 4-2-5

Top offensive players: RB Maliek Broady (Sr.); RB Andrew Peterson (Sr.); RB Daniel Godfrey (Jr.); QB Randal Grimes (So.)

Top defensive players: LB Maliek Broady (Sr.); LB Daniel Godfrey (Jr.); S Javion Hunt (Jr.)

Top newcomers: OG/DT Erik Killgore (So.); DE/TE Jordan Lampkin (Jr.); OG/TE Uastine Astucion (So.); QB/FS Oscar Aliaga (So.)

Key losses: LB Kevin Malta

Outlook: Sierra Vista will be seeing a lot of new teams this season as it was moved to Division I-A with the new realignment.

The Mountain Lions struggled last season, but return 21 total lettermen.

Broady stands out on both sides as a running back and linebacker. He led the team in rushing last season and was fourth in tackles.

Safety Hunt finished second in tackles last season and also had four interceptions.

Foss returns several skill players, but has an inexperienced line. He looks to “make the playoffs and advance.”

SPRING VALLEY

Head coach: Marcus Teal, fifth season (15-22)

2013 record: 3-7 (2-3 Northwest League, fourth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 24 (eight offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 4-2

Top offensive players: QB/WR/ATH Christian Tasi (Sr.); OL Shiloh Fao (Sr.); TE Drazen Tojic (Sr.); WR Mycah Benoza (Sr.); ATH Antonio Wallace (So.)

Top defensive players: FS Michael Bianco (Sr.); DL Shiloh Fao (Sr.); LB Raheem Edmonds (Jr.); DL Drazen Tojic (Sr.); CB Antonio Wallace (So.)

Top special teams players: KR/PR Christian Tasi (Sr.); KR/PR Antonio Wallace (So.)

Top newcomers: DL/OL Keki Faatiliga (Fr.); OL/DL Nathan Hunt (So.)

Key losses: OL/LB Tyler Stevens; RB/LB Logan Cruz; OL/DL Matt Cataldi; OL/DL Dylan Clifton; K Joseph Padfield; P Paolo Ferrer

Outlook: Spring Valley had some success in Division I last season, earning the No. 4 seed in the Northwest League, before falling to Bishop Gorman, 56-0, in the Sunset Region quarterfinals.

The Grizzlies, now a I-A team, return eight starters on offense and will be looking to make a return trip to the playoffs.

Tasi, who led the team in scoring last season, returns to split time at quarterback and wide receiver. He will be helped out by Benoza, the team’s leading receiver a year ago.

Though it returns only five starters on defense, Spring Valley kept a solid secondary with safety Bianco and cornerback Antonio Wallace. Bianco led the team with 130 tackles, and Wallace finished with a team-leading three interceptions.

“The Grizz will be returning a team with varsity experience but not a lot of depth,” Teal said. “Playing in the Division I-A, the Grizz hope to compete for wins and return to being a playoff team.”

WESTERN

Head coach: Donnie Davis, third season (1-17)

2013 record: 0-9 (0-5 Sunset League, sixth)

Outlook: Western, whose lone win in the last three seasons came by forfeit, hopes to break its recent futility under third-year coach Davis.

DIVISION III SOUTHERN LEAGUE

AGASSI PREP

Head coach: Ben Fermon, second season (6-4)

2013 record: 6-4 (4-3 Southern League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): 18 (nine offense, nine defense)

Base offensive set: Wing-T

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Kobe Williams (Sr.); RB Stephan Laushaul (Jr.); OL Robert Blake (Sr.); OL Nick Smith (Jr.); RB Cajon Lakes (Sr.)

Top defensive players: DB Kobe Williams (Sr.); LB Stephan Laushaul (Jr.); DL Robert Blake (Sr.); LB Kameron Burrell (Jr.); DB Cajon Lakes (Sr.); LB Zelvan Ned (Soph.); DL Oziah Manor (Jr.)

Top special teams players: K Alexis Placido-Reyes (Jr.); KR Kobe Williams (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB/DB/KR Jonas Patterson (Jr.); OL/DL Anthony Woods (Jr.); OL/DL Darrian Hooper (Soph.)

Key losses: OL/DL Wa’t Manor

Outlook: Agassi Prep returns nearly all of its starters from a team that finished third in the Southern League last season.

Expectations are high for the Stars as they get back standout Williams, who a first team all-league selection at running back and second team at defensive back.

Blake will take on an increased role on the line with the loss of Wa’t Manor. Blake, a first team all-league defensive lineman, will anchor the line on both sides of the ball.

The Stars look to challenge Mountain View, which has been atop the league for the last few seasons.

“With the high number of returning Stars on both offense and defense, one goal is to show great improvement from the 6-4 record from last season,” Fermon said. “The other is to advance past the first round of the playoffs and overcome the adversity that we faced last season.”

CALVARY CHAPEL

Head coach: David Tautofi

2013 record: 1-7 (1-6 Southern League, seventh)

Outlook: Calvary Chapel fielded a young team last season and it resulted in winning just one game.

The Lions, who struggled early on last season, came on towards the end on the offensive side of the ball.

LAUGHLIN

Head coach: Jim Estes

2013 record: 5-4 (4-3 Southern League, fifth)

Returning starters: Four offense, four defense

Top defensive players: DL Andrew Estes (Jr.)

Outlook: Laughlin just missed out on the playoffs last season after finishing one game over .500.

Unfortunately, graduation hit the Cougars hard as they lost nearly all of their offensive production from last season.

Andrew Estes returns to anchor the defensive line and looks to be one of the leaders on a young team that returns four starters on each side of the ball.

Jim Estes, who’s entering his first season as head coach, said it will be a “massive rebuilding season in 2014” because 17 of his 27 players are underclassmen.

LINCOLN COUNTY

Head coach: Rich Ottley, 14th season

2013 record: 2-6 (2-5 Southern League, sixth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 13 (eight offense, 7 defense)

Base offensive set: Hybrid wing-T

Base defensive set: 4-3

Top offensive players: RB Chris Florence (Sr.); RB Will Culverwell (Jr.); RB/QB Derek Shumway (Sr.); TE Jordan Harrington (Sr.); RB Preston Robbins (Sr.); QB/RB McClain O’Connor (Jr.); RB/WR Cody Thornock (So.); WR Jesse Mathews (Jr.); TE Zach Florence (So.)

Top defensive players: DB Chris Florence (Sr.); LB Will Culverwell (Jr.); LB Derek Shumway (Sr.); LB Jordan Harrington (Sr.); DB Preston Robbins (Sr.); DB McClain O’Connor (Jr.); DL Kendal Thomas (Sr.)

Outlook: With plenty of experience, the Lynx will look to improve on last year’s sixth-place finish in the league.

Robbins was a second team all-league pick at both running back and defensive back and should lead the way.

MOUNTAIN VIEW

Head coach: Raymond LeBoeuf

2013 record: 10-2 (7-0 Southern League, first)

Returning lettermen (starters): 11 (three offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-5-3

Top offensive players: QB Ian Locke (Sr.); RB Bernard Williams (Jr.); WR Connor LeBoeuf (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Adam Stacey (Jr.); DL A.J. Kim (Sr.); LB/DB Ian Locke (Sr.); CB Bernard Williams (Jr.); CB Connor LeBoeuf (Sr.)

Top newcomers: WR/LB Matthew Tom (Sr.); WR/LB Greg Tomaino (Sr.); OL/DL Paul Muehleisen (Jr.)

Key losses: RB Matthew Larson; RB Jacob Duldulao; WR/LB Noah Van Kempen; WR/DL Travis Wallace; WR/DB Nick Jenkins; DL/OL Cameron Kirk; DL/OL Jerrod Wallace; LB Dylan Duggan

Outlook: Mountain View has turned itself into one of the top Division III football programs in the last few years by reaching the state title game in three out of the last four seasons.

The Saints lost the majority of their offense to graduation, including the standout backfield of Larson and Duldulao, who combined to run for nearly 2,000 yards and 23 touchdowns. Larson was the Player of the Year in the division.

Locke returns as signal caller after he was selected first-team all-league. The dual-threat quarterback passed for 1,103 yards and 12 touchdowns and added 983 yards and 14 TDs on the ground last season.

He will get help from his top two offensive weapons, Williams (350 yards rushing) and Connor LeBoeuf (149 yards receiving).

Mountain View will look to make its eighth playoff appearance in a row, and capture its third consecutive league championship.

“(We will be) building a team around the experience of QB Ian Locke and OL A.J. Kim on offense,” Raymond LeBoeuf said. “Defensively, Adam Stacey returns as the anchor and Bernard Williams and Connor LeBoeuf will bring experience back on both sides of the ball.”

NEEDLES

Head coach: David Smith

2013 record: 5-5 (4-3 Southern League, fourth)

Outlook: Needles finished last season at an even .500 record and earned the Southern League’s No. 4 seed before losing to state runner-up Mountain View, 41-27, in the state quarterfinals.

THE MEADOWS

Head coach: Frank DeSantis, 13th season

2013 record: 8-3 (6-1 Southern League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): 24 (eight offense, seven defense)

Base offensive set: Pro

Base defensive set: Odd

Top offensive players: RB Bryson Navallo (Sr.); QB Jake Gleason (Sr.); OL Mark Woodson (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Max Hisatake (Jr.); S Nathan Devera (Sr.)

Top newcomers: RB/LB Jack Berkley (So.)

Outlook: The Meadows finished second in the division before losing to Yerington, 49-7, in the state semifinals.

Woodson is back after capturing both the Defensive Player of the Year and Offensive Lineman of the Year accolades.

Look for him to open holes for running back Navallo, who finished with 1,451 yards and 18 TDs on the ground. Navallo was selected the Offensive Player of the Year in Division III.

Gleason remains the starting quarterback, a season after throwing for 1,138 yards and 10 touchdowns.

The Mustangs have made the playoffs nine out of the last ten years, but have not won a league championship since 2009.

DeSantis said he hopes his team “builds on the state semifinal finish.”

WHITE PINE

Head coach: Cameron Briggs

2013 record: 0-9 (0-7 Southern League, eighth)

Key losses: Chas Odgers, Seth Lester

Outlook: White Pine finished the season winless a year ago.

The Bobcats also lost two of their top players in linemen Chase Odgers and Seth Lester. Odgers was selected first team all-league on defense and second team for offense. Lester made both second teams.

DIVISION IV SOUTHERN LEAGUE

INDIAN SPRINGS

Head coach: Sope Faga, 17th season

2013 record: 6-4 (4-2 Southern League, third)

Returning lettermen (starters): 12 (five offense, five defense)

Base offensive set: Pro set

Base defensive set: 3-4

Top offensive players: TE Ryan Frank (Jr.); OL Cody Snyder (Sr.); OL C.J. Caldwell (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Ryan Frank (Jr.); DL Cody Snyder (Sr.); DL C.J. Caldwell (Sr.)

Top newcomers: OL/LB A.J. Demartino (So.)

Key losses: QB Troy Heath; RB/LB J.R. Faga; RB/LB Mason Hamlin

Outlook: Indian Springs earned the No. 3 seed before falling to Spring Mountain, 76-28, in the state quarterfinals last season.

The Thunderbirds return 10 starters, five on each side of the ball, but must find a way to replace Heath and the do-it-all Hamlin, who was the team’s top rusher and receiver.

Snyder and Caldwell return as experienced linemen and look to cause havoc up front with newcomer Demartino. Frank, the team’s top returning pass catcher, also will be a factor at both tight end and linebacker.

“We will be a young a team, but we have kids that have seen the field from last year’s squad,” Faga said. “Our strength lies in our lineman. We have a couple of great additions to the team that will definitely help. This will be a very competitive team.”

PAHRANAGAT VALLEY

Head coach: Ken Higbee

2013 record: 12-0 (6-0 Southern League, first)

Key losses: OL/DL Jake Carter

Outlook: Pahranagat Valley has the longest winning streak in the nation at 69 games, and it doesn’t appear to be in jeopardy this season.

The Panthers return nearly everyone from their state championship team a season ago (36-8 win over Spring Mountain), minus standout lineman Carter.

QUEST ACADEMY

Head coach: Kerry Johnson, first season

2013 record: None

Base offensive set: Single wing

Base defensive set: 40

Top offensive players: QB Keigan Ross (Sr.); RB Tomas Gaymon (So.); TE Sakari MacRae (Sr.)

Top defensive players: CB Devonte Loggins (Jr.); Matt Loper

Outlook: Quest Academy is preparing for its first season as a football team in Division IV.

The Knights, under senior quarterback Ross, plan to “work to get better each and every day and develop team chemistry,” according to Johnson.

Said Johnson: “Our overall goal is to be competitive. (We hope to) build a program from the ground up.”

SANDY VALLEY

Head coach: Brett Kramer, third season

2013 record: 5-4 (2-4 Southern League, fifth)

Returning lettermen (starters): 12 (six offense, six defense)

Base offensive set: Multiple

Base defensive set: 3-3, 4-2

Top offensive players: RB James Rau (Sr.); QB Lane Eastham (Sr.); RB Garrett Sellers (Sr.); G Derick Dilley (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB James Rau (Sr.); CB Lane Eastham (Sr.); NG Derick Dilley (Sr.); LB Alexis Fajardo-Moreno (Soph.)

Top special teams players: P Lane Eastham (Sr.); K Alexis Fajardo-Moreno (Soph.); K Derick Dilley (Sr.)

Top newcomers: TE/DE/LB Logan Shelton (Jr.); RB/CB Raphael Acuana-Campa (Soph.)

Key losses: DE Nathaniel Carter

Outlook: Sandy Valley just missed out on the playoffs last season after finishing a game over .500.

The Sidewinders return 12 starters, six on each side of the ball. The dangerous one-two punch of Rau and Eastham will lead the offense.

Rau led the team with 707 yards rushing and 375 yards receiving, along with 18 total touchdowns. Eastham is a dual-threat quarterback, who looks to improve on his 651 yards passing, 625 rushing and 20 touchdowns. Each athlete will be busy as they play on both sides of the ball.

The biggest loss came on the defensive line with Carter graduating after posting 92 tackles and 8.5 sacks.

“The team has high expectations after going 5-4 in 2013 and returning the bulk of its starters,” Kramer said. “The entire backfield returns along with an improved offensive line. The defense will continue to improve with a strong returning group.”

SPRING MOUNTAIN

Head coach: Aaron Masden

2013 record: 7-3 (4-2 Southern League, second)

Returning lettermen (starters): 0

Base offensive set: Spread

Base defensive set: 3-3-2

Key losses: RB/LB Arias Jefferson; QB/LB Joshua Banasiak, Gene Gibson; WR/LB Valmir Bojku

Outlook: Spring Mountain found its way into the state championship for the second consecutive last season before falling to Pahranagat Valley, 36-8.

The Golden Eagles look to compete within the eight-man football that is Division IV.

“We’re fast, we’re physical and we’re inexperienced,” Masden said. “But if we focus and continue to build every day and week by week, we have the expectation that this team can be competitive just like we’ve been the last several years. The boys are working hard and they’re learning a lot.”

INDEPENDENT

RANCHO

Head coach: Tyrone Armstrong, second season (0-9)

2013 record: 0-9 (0-5 Northeast League, sixth)

Top offensive players: QB/SS Yasser Rebolledo (Sr.); OL/DL Jakob Mitchell (Sr.); OL/DL Kwansi Cooper (Sr.)

Top defensive players: OL/DL Benjamin Sierra (Sr.); FB/DT Kyle Armstrong (Jr.)

Outlook: Rancho is coming off its second consecutive winless season and is riding a 20-game losing streak dating back to 2011.

There is a feeling of hope this season for the Rams, who will be playing as an independent. Seven of their nine games are against Division I-A opponents.

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