2017 Desert Oasis Football Capsule
DESERT OASIS
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: Michael Ovens, second season (1-8)
2016 record: 1-8 (1-5 Southwest League, sixth)
Returning lettermen: Nine
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Spread, Heavy power
Base defensive set: 4-2-5, 4-3
Top offensive players: OT Tim Anisko (Sr.); QB Mitch Moniz (Sr.); WR Isiah Fuller (Sr.); RB Anthony Garcia (Sr.); OG/C Aydan Smith (Sr.): RB Christian Vaughn (So.)
Top defensive players: ILB Idris Shuaib (Jr.); CB Bradley Ozosky (Jr.); DT Tim Anisko (Sr.); ILB Alvin Pomare (Jr.)
Top newcomers: OT Bryce Sturtz (Sr.); C Brandon Cuevas (So.); NG Micah Walker (Jr.) WR Noah Taylor (Jr.); WR Desmond Quiocho (Sr.)
Key losses: OL Brandon Smith; QB Brannon Flowers; WR Jaden Mitchell; WR/FS Kaleb Ramsey
Outlook: The Diamondbacks struggled in Ovens’ first season, and their lone victory was a 28-14 win over Clark on Sept. 30.
But Desert Oasis probably was better than its record, as four of the losses came by eight points or fewer.
Moniz returns at quarterback after passing for 457 yards and three TDs last season.
“We will be young, but have some talent headed our way,” Ovens said. “(Our) strength will be at our skill spots and quarterback experience, but (we) will be young up front.”
The Diamondbacks’ hopes took a hit when leading receiver Mitchell (18 catches, 262 yards) transferred to Desert Pines along with Ramsey.
