2017 Football Capsules
CLASS 4A
ARBOR VIEW
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: Dan Barnson, 11th season (82-30)
2016 record: 10-2 (6-0 Northwest, first)
Returning lettermen: 24
Returning starters: Six offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Double wing
Base defensive set: 5-2
Top offensive players: TE Elijah Wade; RB Deago Stubbs (Sr.); RB Isaiah Herron (Sr.); OL Zach Elefante (Sr.); RB Jaquari Hannie (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB J.J. Tuinei (Jr.); DE Elijah Wade (Sr.); DB Deago Stubbs (Sr.); DB Isaiah Herron (Sr.); DL Zach Elefante (Sr.)
Top newcomers: RB/LB Kyle Graham
Key losses: QB Hayden Bollinger; DL Greg Rogers
Outlook: The Aggies have won the Northwest League title and finished second to Bishop Gorman in the Sunset Region in each of the last three seasons.
Arbor View is again the favorite in the Northwest and should be among the contenders to make the Sunset title game.
Stubbs, who has a scholarship offer from Southern Utah, will key the offense. He rushed for 783 yards and six TDs and hauled in 45 passes for 748 yards and 13 scores last season.
With Bollinger’s graduation, Stubbs may see more carries in Arbor View’s traditional double wing. Hannie (722 rushing yards, eight TDs) gives the Aggies a solid second running option.
On defense, Wade should be among the state’s top linemen. He had 50 tackles last season and holds more than 25 scholarship offers, including one from Alabama. He’ll need to soften the loss of Rogers (59 tackles, six sacks), who is playing for UCLA.
Stubbs and Herron, who has an offer from Brigham Young, will anchor the secondary.
“We hope to repeat as Northwest champs and play Gorman as late as possible,” Barnson said.
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BASIC
League: Class 4A Southeast
Head coach: Jeff Cahill, 10th season (64-37)
2016 record: 8-4 (3-2 Southeast League, second)
Returning lettermen: Seven
Returning starters: One offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: RB Franco Mays (Jr.); RB/WR Dorian McAllister (Jr.); QB Paul MYro (So.); WR Jordan Gallegos (Sr.)
Top defensive players: S Jordan Gallegos (Sr.): DE Derek Carney (Jr.); OLB Zach Grismanauskas (Sr.)
Top newcomers: OL Nicholas Crisp (Jr.)
Key losses: WR/LB Frank Harris; WR/CB De’Shawn Eagles; QB Aaron McAllister
Outlook: Basic has been the Sunrise Region runner-up the last three seasons, but the Wolves were hit hard by graduation and will have to reload quickly to match that recent success.
Basic lost its top three offensive weapons in Aaron McAllister (2,894 passing yards, 38 TDs), Harris (60 catches, 978 yards) and Eagles (60 catches, 875 yards).
Myro had some success in limited varsity action backing up Aaron McAllister as a freshman. Myro completed 14 of 23 passes for 129 yards and three TDs with one interception.
Dorian McAllister, who led the team in rushing with 263 yards, should play a larger role along with Gallegos (21 catches, 281 yards).
Gallegos led the team with 128 tackles, and is back to key the defense. Grismanauskas (53 tackles) lends experience on that side of the ball.
“(We are) a young team with talent,” Cahill said. “It will take a while to get everyone going in the right direction.”
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BISHOP GORMAN
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: Kenny Sanchez, third season (30-0)
2016 record: 15-0 (6-0 Southwest League, first)
Returning starters: Five offense, two defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 4-3
Top offensive players: QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson (Sr.); TE Brevin Jordan (Sr.); WR Jalen Nailor (Sr.); OL Jacob Isaia (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Palaie Gaoteote (Sr.); DE Adam Plant (Sr.); DT Isaac Tuia (Sr.); LB Jeff Ulofoshio (Sr.)
Key losses: QB Tate Martell; RB Biaggio Ali Walsh; S Bubba Bolden; LB Farrell Hester; DT Haskell Garrett; S Greg Francis; CB Alex Perry; WR/DB Austin Arnold
Outlook: Losing even one Division I player to graduation would be enough to make most teams temper their expectations.
For the Gaels, losing 10 players to FBS schools means little. Sanchez lists his expectations for the team: “Win our non-conference games. Win our conference. Win state. Win national title.”
Gorman returns just two starters on defense, but Gaoteote may be the nation’s best high school linebacker. He has committed to Southern California after leading the Gaels with 68 tackles last season.
Plant (25 tackles, two sacks) has gotten plenty of Division I interest, and Ulofoshio was second on the team with six sacks last season. The primary defensive concern is the secondary with Bolden (Southern California), Perry (Arizona State) and Francis (UNR) all graduating. The Gaels dismissed Greg Oliver, who would have been the team’s lone returnee in the secondary.
The offensive losses also were huge, especially three-year starting quarterback Martell, who now is at Ohio State. Martell was the state player of the year after passing for 2,362 yards and 41 TDs and rushing for 1,257 yards and 21 TDs.
Thompson-Robinson is a more-than-capable replacement, but Martell’s leadership will be missed. Thompson-Robinson has yet to start a varsity game at quarterback, but already has committed to UCLA. Jordan (27 catches, 501 yards, nine TDS) has committed to Miami, and Nailor (52 catches, 929 yards, 14 TDs) to Arizona State and they will give the first-year starting quarterback two outstanding targets.
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BONANZA
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: Dion Lee, second season (5-5)
2016 record: 5-5 (3-3 Southwest League, third)
Returning lettermen: 10
Returning starters: Five offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Pistol
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: RB/WR Joshua Wilson (Sr.); RB Justin Bacon (Jr.); QB Kyle Allison (Jr.); LT Silver Rodriguez (Sr.)
Top defensive players: CB Joey Fox (Sr.); LB Brendan Rehmel (Jr.); CB Carvarion Cranford (So.); DT Justwin Encher (Jr.)
Top newcomers: WR/DB Donavan Jackson (Sr.); WR Armani Burns (Jr.)
Key losses: RB Ricardo Hill; WR R.J. McCarter; FB/LB Ammon Montenegro; DE/TE Kenyon Devers
Outlook: The Bengals turned things around after going 2-7 in 2015 to make the school’s first postseason appearance since 2011.
Now the trick will be sustaining and building off that success.
The Bengals lost their top two offensive weapons in Hill (1,079 rushing yards, 10 TDs) and McCarter (41 catches, 838 yards, 10 TDs).
Allison saw limited time at quarterback last season, but will take over full-time after throwing 38 passes as a sophomore.
Lee expects Rodriguez, Wilson and Fox to play key roles on both sides of the ball, especially early in the season. The junior varsity went 6-3 last season, including losses to Bishop Gorman and Liberty.
“We built up a lot of confidence over the spring and summer, and now it is time to put that hard offseason work in the season,” Lee said. “We are looking to contend for a league championship and host our first playoff game in many years.”
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CANYON SPRINGS
League: 4A Northeast
Head coach: Gus McNair, second season (8-2)
2016 record: 8-2 (4-0 Northeast League, first)
Returning starters: Eight offense, Eight defense
Top offensive players: QB/RB/WR Diamante Burton (Sr.); RB Jayvion Pugh (Jr.); WR Keyon White (Sr.); OL Shaun Green (Sr.); OL Donovan Wolfe (Sr.); OL Maxwell White (Sr.)
Top defensive players: S Johnathan Bailey (Sr.); MLB Jah’quire Powell-Hunt; LB Keyvon Lakes (Jr.); DL Germaine Carmena (Sr.); DL Desmond Nunnelly (Sr.); CB Knylen Miller-Levi (Sr.)
Outlook: With plenty of experienced players returning, the Pioneers hope to build off last year’s Northeast League title and make a longer run in the playoffs.
Burton was forced into action at quarterback last season with positive results. He completed 53.7 percent of his passes for 1,284 yards and 14 TDs. He also rushed for 698 yards and 13 scores.
He’ll move around the field this season. Pugh is back after rushing for 492 yards as a sophomore in earning first-team All-Northeat League honors. White (17 catches, 157 yards) should be a big-play threat at receiver.
Returning all-league offensive linemen Greene (6-3, 380), Wolfe (6-3, 300) and Maxwell White will pave the way.
Bailey keyed the defense from the safety position last year and returns along with fellow second-team All-Northeast League picks Powell-Hunt, Carmena, Nunnelly and Miller-Levi.
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CENTENNIAL
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: Dustin Forshee, first season
2016 record: 3-6 (2-4 Northwest League, fifth)
Returning lettermen: 15
Returning starters: Four offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 5-2
Top offensive players: QB Vlad Plotnikov (Sr.); OL Adam Castillo (Sr.); OL Luis Rivas (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DT Joseph Ahern (Sr.); DE Max Barnes (Sr.); DB Kamden Garrett (Jr.)
Top newcomers: TE/DE Jonah La’ulu (Sr.); WR Tyree Jefferson (Sr.); DB Daven Walden (Jr.)
Key losses: QB Jamaal Evans; WR Savon Scarver
Outlook: Forshee takes over a program coming off a disappointing season. The Bulldogs missed the playoffs for the first time since 2009, and now must replace high-octane offensive weapons Evans and Scarver, who both are at Utah State.
Both were second-team all-state picks last season after accounting for much of the team’s offense. Evans passed for 2,148 yards and 21 TDs, and led the team with 608 rushing yards and 15 TDs. Scarver had 43 catches for 946 yards and eight scores.
Plotnikov takes over at quarterback after attempting just three passes as Evans’ backup last season.
“We will be a young team with many first-year varsity players that have a lot of energy and talent,” Forshee said. “The season will depend on how quickly we progress and how quickly we learn from our mistakes.”
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CIMARRON-MEMORIAL
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: Kory Walker, first season
2016 record: 1-8 (0-6 Northwest League, seventh)
Returning starters: Four offense, six defense
Base offensive set: I-formation
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: QB George Tribble (Sr.); WR Marcus Phillips (Sr.); OL Isaiah Rivera (Sr.)
Top defensive players: CB Karion Harrell (Sr.); DE Cameron Anderson (Sr.)
Top newcomers: RB Jordan Norwood (So.); DB Norvon Harrell (Jr.); WR/RB/LB Marcus Poole (Jr.)
Key losses: RB Tyree Riley
Outlook: Walker becomes the third head coach in three seasons for the once-powerful Spartans.
He will lean heavily on Tribble, who passed for 373 yards and four TDs last season. Phillips, who had 20 catches for 169 yards and two TDs, should be his top target.
Replacing Riley, who rushed for more than 1,000 yards in two consecutive seasons, will be difficult.
The defense must improve if the team is going to make a playoff run. Cimarron allowed 40 or more points six times last season.
“With a quarterback with varsity playing experience, we expect to finish the season above .500 and qualify for the playoffs,” Walker said. “We are young at certain key positions, but should progressively get better as we go along.”
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CLARK
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: Ricky Pickens, first season
2016 record: 1-8 (0-6 Southwest League, seventh)
Returning starters: Four offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Pro
Base defensive set: 40
Top offensive players: QB Justin Aguilar (Sr.); QB Jared Jenkins (Jr.); WR Isiah Bigby (Jr.); RB Aguantay Morris (Sr.); WR Daimanuel Mayfield (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DE Donovan Johnston (Jr.); CB Isaiah Veal (Jr.); LB Noah Fuller (Sr.)
Outlook: The Chargers struggled in their first season back at the Class 4A level, going winless in league play.
Pickens takes over, and hopes to turn things around quickly.
“If we compete, definitely we’ll make a playoff run,” Pickens said. “If we play Clark of old, we’ll have the same results. But we definitely have the talent to make a playoff run.”
Morris is back after rushing for 333 yards and three TDs while averaging 7.2 yards per carry.
Bigby will move from quarterback to receiver.
Pickens hopes to take advantage of the team’s speed and senior leadership.
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CORONADO
League: Class 4A Southeast
Head coach: William Froman, third season (5-14)
2016 record: 2-7 (0-5 Southeast League, sixth)
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 4-2
Top offensive players: QB Carlos Gomez (Sr.); TE Ishmael Jones (Sr.); RB/LB Zac Holbert (Sr.); OT Billy Froman (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DT Billy Froman (Sr.); LB Holbert; CB Semaj Bolin (Jr.); DT Michael Carter (Jr.); DE Patrick Ng (Sr.); LB Ayzayah Hartsfield (So.)
Outlook: The Cougars struggled offensively last season, and were held to 10 points or fewer four times.
But William Froman expects bigger things from his offense this season. He said the team is ready to open things up this season.
“(Offensive coordinator David Yacobuvich) really has our kids working and clicking and we love it,” coach Froman said. “He opened up the offense, and we can’t wait to torch people through the air.”
William Froman expects a big season out of Jones at tight end.
“(Jones) is a (Division I) tight end,” William Froman said. “He can run and stretch the field.”
His son, Billy, will anchor both lines.
“We’re big up front,” William Froman said. “I like our size.”
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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.
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DURANGO
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: Scott Murdock, first season
2016 record: 6-3 (3-3 Southwest League, fifth)
Returning starters: Five offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Multiple
Base defensive set: Multiple
Top offensive players: QB Kaden Renshaw (Jr.); RB T.K.Fotu (Jr.); WR Kevin O’Neill (Sr.); FB/WR Jayden Nersinger (Jr.)
Top defensive players: LB T.K. Fotu (Jr.); DE Jayden Nersinger (Jr.)
Outlook: The Trailblazers opened the 2016 season by winning their first six games, yet still managed to miss the playoffs.
Murdock, who returned to Las Vegas after spending four years coach in Missouri, has high hopes that Durango can build off the early success it had last season.
“They’ve played football their whole lives, and it’s what you want as a coach,” Murdock said. “Talented players who are going to work hard for you. And that’s what they’re doing.”
Renshaw completed 47.4 percent of his passes for 607 yards and six TDs last season, and should be better with a year of starting experience under his belt.
O’Neill was the team’s top receiver with 11 catches for 230 yards, and Murdock expects Fotu to play a key role on both sides of the ball.
“We talk about winning it all,” Murdock said. “We talk about being champions. I don’t know why anybody would want to do anything other than that. Their expectations are limitless. They should be, they’re kids.
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ELDORADO
League: Class 4A Northeast
Head coach: Robert Cutts, third season (4-15)
2016 record: 2-8 (2-2 Northeast League, third)
Returning lettermen: 23
Returning starters: Five offense, seven defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: QB Jaime Rangel (Sr.); WR Andres Aviles (Sr.); G Justin Tailano (Jr.)
Top defensive players: OLB/DE Uriel Garcia-Fierro; MLB Brian Soto (Sr.); CB Jalen Malone (Jr.); CB Brandon Gibbs (Sr.)
Top newcomers: S Elijah Ezell (Sr.); WR Rayen Rubio (Jr.); TE Guillermo Hernandez (So.)
Key losses: RB/OLB Anthony Silva
Outlook: Cutts hopes that experience will help the Sundevils take the next step this season. The team has 22 seniors, and plenty of returnees.
Rangel is back for a second season at quarterback, and Cutts thinks his signal caller will have more success this season.
“He took some lumps last season, but has learned from it,” Cutts said.
Rangel passed for 1,045 yards and six touchdowns, but threw 18 interceptions as a junior.
Aviles should be his top target after catching 35 passes for 342 yards last season.
Malone returns in the secondary to lead the defense. He was second on the team with 33 tackles and earned second-team All-Northeast League honors.
“Our guys have worked extremely hard this offseason in the weight room to close the gap in strength,” Cutts said.
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FAITH LUTHERAN
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: Vernon Fox, fifth season (34-13)
2016 record: 6-5 (4-2 Northwest League, second)
Returning lettermen: 25
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Spread, Pistol
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: WR Elijah Kothe (Sr.); QB Sagan Gronauer (Jr.); RB Saundre Spiller (Sr.); OT John Schulte (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Nate Meredith (Jr.); LB Hunter Kaupiko (So.); CB Josh Hong (Sr.): LB John Thomson (Sr.); DB Taimani McKenzie (Jr.); CB Keagan Touchstone (Jr.)
Top newcomers: TE/WR Dalton Kincaid
Key losses: RB Christian Marshall; LB Clay Shipley
Outlook: The Crusaders started the 2016 season 1-3, before closing strong to finish second in the Northwest League.
They advanced to the Sunset Region semifinals, losing to eventual state champion Bishop Gorman.
And plenty of experience returns as Faith Lutheran looks to build on that strong finish.
Chief among the returnees is receiver Kothe, a second-team all-state pick who has committed to play at San Diego State. The 6-foot-4-inch receiver hauled in 55 passes for 1,053 yards and 10 TDs, and will give Gronauer a big target.
Gronauer had a solid first season as a starter, passing for 1,731 yards and 16 TDs. He’ll need to improve on his 48.5 percent completion rate to take the next step.
Marshall, who rushed for 1,062 yards, is gone, but Spiller (380 yards, seven TDs) should step into the role as the No. 1 back.
On defense, there is plenty of experience at linebacker with Thomson (82 tackles, 4 sacks), Meredith (66 tackles) and Kaupiko (64 tackles) back. The secondary also is one of the most experienced in the area with Hong (54 tackles, 3 interceptions), McKenzie (55 tackles) and Touchstone (47 tackles) all returning.
“We have an explosive offense and a group of returning starters on defense that should carry the team on that side of the ball,” Fox said.
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FOOTHILL
League: Class 4A Southeast
Head coach: Marty Redmond, 13th season (75-55)
2016 record: 6-5 (3-2 Southeast League, fourth)
Returning starters: Six offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: Multiple
Top offensive players: QB Koy Riggin (So.); WR Braedan Wilson (Jr.); RB Isaac Oliva (Sr.), WR Jordan Blakely (Jr.)
Top defensive players: CB Titus Lowe (Sr.); NG Anthony McAllister (Sr.); S Jordan Blakely (Jr.); DL Xavier Walker (Sr.)
Outlook: Redmond will turn quarterback duties over to Riggin despite the return of last year’s starter, Jordan Wilson.
“He’s a really smart, really composed kid,” Redmond said of Riggin. “We’re looking for big things out of him.
Jordan Wilson passed for 1,206 yards and rushed for 437 yards as the team’s quarterback as a sophomore. He’ll move to receiver this season, though he will miss the opener with an ankle injury.
Redmond said he expects Jordan Wilson to play a key role on both sides once healthy.
Oliva rushed for 435 yards and five TDs last season, and should be the primary ball carrier.
“I just think we have some real talented players,” Redmond said. “They’ve just got to learn our system and learn our scheme and be able to execute it. Just get that game-time experience.”
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GREEN VALLEY
League: Class 4A Southeast
Head coach: Brian Castro, seventh season (40-23)
2016 record: 4-5 (1-4 Southeast League, fifth)
Returning starters: Seven offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: WR Christian Mayberry (Sr.); WR Kalyja Waialae (Jr.); RB Julian Hulse (Jr.)
Top defensive players: DB Branxton Harms (Sr.); LB Reyden Morett (Jr.); DE/LB Nick Daniel (Jr.); DE Branden Lopez (Sr.)
Top newcomers: QB A.J. Barilla (Sr.); LB/WR Chase Kopp (Sr.)
Key losses: LB C.J. Araujo; DE Brock Hershberger
Outlook: Injuries helped derail the Gators last season, and they missed the playoffs for the first time since 2009.
The quarterback position was hit especially hard, forcing receiver Mayberry to take over at one point in the season after Waialae went down.
Barilla should take over at quarterback, allowing Waialae, who passed for 1,051 yards, to move to receiver.
Mayberry was the team’s leading receiver last season, with 31 catches for 349 yards, and is poised for a big season with some stability at quarterback.
Hulse, who rushed for 717 yards as a sophomore, will look to improve on his average of 4.0 yards per carry.
Castro said the defensive unit is solid and has good speed, led by second-team All-Southeast League pick Harms (37 tackles) and Lopez (five sacks). But replacing Araujo (99 tackles) and Hershberger (68 tackles, 10 sacks) could prove difficult.
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LAS VEGAS
League: Class 4A Northeast
Head coach: Erick Capetillo, first season
2016 record: 7-3 (3-1 Northeast League, second)
Returning lettermen: 21
Returning starters: Seven offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: Stack
Top offensive players: QB Zach Matlock (Sr.); RB Elijah Hicks (Sr.); OL Javon Taylor (Sr.); OL Peter Alamoti (Sr.); OL Matt Del Valle (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Jake Bowden (Sr.); CB Zion Edward (Sr.); S Colby Splond (Jr.); LB Daniel Law (Jr.)
Top newcomers: WR Chris Bunn (Jr.); WR Preston Williams (Jr.); DL Dakota Ray (Jr.)
Key losses: LB Cruz Littlefield; OL Dyllan Kounovsky; OL Bryan Acosta
Outlook: Capetillo takes over for James Thurman, who stepped aside after posting a 40-23 record in six seasons.
He inherits a strong offensive unit, headlined by running back Hicks, who rushed for 769 yards and 10 TDs last season. Matlock, a two-year starter at quarterback, completed 64.6 percent of his passes for 965 yards and 12 TDs, and also had eight rushing touchdowns.
The Wildcats also return four starters to anchor the offensive line.
The defense isn’t as experienced, with just three starters returning. Among the losses was Northeast League Defensive MVP Littlefield, who led the Wildcats with 109 tackles last season.
Bowden, a first-team All-Northeast League pick, had 69 tackles, and should key the defense along with Edward (45 tackles).
The Wildcats should contend in the Northeast League, and Capetillo hopes to capture the school’s first league title since 2010.
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LEGACY
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: John Isola, fourth season (14-17)
2016 record: 8-3 (4-2 Northwest League, third)
Returning lettermen: 16
Returning starters: Six offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Pro
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: QB Robert Valenzuela (Sr.); OL Terrance Smith (Sr.); OL Jacob Chambers (Sr.); RB Isaiah Whitehead (Sr.); RB/WR Amorey Foster (Jr.); WR Davick Clark (Sr.); WR Antoine Clipper (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Amere Foster (Sr.); CB Amorey Foster (Jr.); DT Ken Holbert (Sr.); LB Ja’Vontay Hill (Sr.); OLB Jaime Cannon (Sr.); CB Andrew Gamble (Sr.); FS Elijahjuan Wanfield
Top newcomers: RB/OLB Aubrey Washington (Sr.); OL Micah Wheeler (Sr.); OL/DE Jaiden Campos (Sr.)
Key losses: RB Samuel Turner; FS A.J. Culpepper; LB Jalen Alapati; OL/DL Noah Jefferson
Outlook: Last year’s eight-win season left expectations high for the Longhorns heading into the 2017 campaign, but they will have to replace their top player.
Gone is Samuel Turner, the Northwest League Offensive MVP and an all-state running back who accounted for much of the team’s offense last season. He rushed for 1,934 yards and 24 TDs.
Though Turner will be hard to replace, the Longhorns feature an experienced offensive line with three returning starters, led by first-team All-Northwest League pick Smith.
Amorey Foster is an explosive athlete who averaged 15.4 yards on 19 carries with six total TDs last season. He should get plenty of touches this season.
Valenzuela is back at quarterback after throwing for 985 yards and 10 TDs last season.
Amere Foster (43 tackles) and Amorey Foster (36 tackles) return to key the defense.
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LIBERTY
League: Class 4A Southeast
Head coach: Rich Muraco, ninth season (84-21)
2016 record: 12-2 (5-0 Southeast League, first)
Returning lettermen: 37
Returning starters: Six offense, eight defense
Base offensive set: Multiple (Spread, Maryland I)
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: QB Kenyon Oblad (Sr.); WR Marquez Powell (Sr.); WR Cervontes White (Jr.); OT Troy Fantanu (Jr.); OT Syvone Sistrunk (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DL Crishaun Lappin (Sr.); S Allan Mwata (Sr.); CB Octavian Bell (Sr.); DL Jaden Brown (Sr.); LB/S Austin Fiaseu (Jr.)
Top newcomers: LB Kyle Beaudry (Jr.); WR Maurice Hampton (So.); OL Brandon Yates (Jr.)
Key losses: WR/DB Ethan Dedeaux; WR Darion Acohido; OL Malasla Aumavae-Laulu; OL Will Brewer
Outlook: The Patriots have been the class of the Sunrise Region, having one the past seven region titles and advancing to the state title game three times in the past five seasons.
And this year’s team should be no exception, led by four-year starting quarterback Kenyon Oblad.
Oblad passed fo 3,784 yards and 38 TDs last season, and has a shot to become the state’s all-time leading passer.
He’s one of 10 players on the squad with Division I FBS offers. Six of those players are on defense, which Muraco said could be the team’s strength.
Lappin led the team with 70 tackles and 11 interceptions in earning first-team all-state honors. Bell picked off five passes and was a second-team all-state pick.
If Powell and White can help make up for the loss of all-state receivers Dedeaux and Acohido, the Patriots could well be in the mix for a national ranking after spending 14 weeks in the USA Today top 25 last season.
“On paper, this could be the most talented Liberty Patriots team ever,” Muraco said.
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PALO VERDE
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: Joe Aznarez, third season (7-13)
2016 record: 3-7 (3-3 Northwest League, fourth)
Returning lettermen: 23
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Double wing, pistol
Base defensive set: 4-3
Top offensive players: TE Daniel Bellinger (Sr.); QB Nick Zuppas (Sr.); RB Chamere Thomas (Sr.); OL Brad Jacobson (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Daniel Bellinger (Sr.); CB Karsone Winters (Jr.); DE John Carpenter (Sr.); DL Jonah Singer (Jr.)
Top newcomers: CB/WR Karsone Winters (Jr.); RB Brenton Lee (Sr.); FB Ryan McCormick (Sr.)
Key losses: RB John Schofield
Outlook: After a dismal 0-6 start, the Panthers somehow fought back and managed to keep a streak of 17 consecutive playoff appearances alive.
Now Aznarez hopes to continue the success the team saw at the end of the regular season.
“We finished last season strong and expect to build off that with our senior class,” Aznarez said.
Bellinger has committed to play at San Diego State, and should play a key role on both sides of the ball. He’ll be especially important on defense, after recording 61 tackles last season.
Offensively, the Panthers must replace Schofield, who turned out to be the team’s top offensive option after moving from quarterback to running back.
He rushed for 1,052 yards and seven TDs last season. Thomas (541 yards) should get the first crack at being the go-to back.
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RANCHO
League: Class 4A Northeast
Head coach: Gary Maki, first season
2016 record: 0-9 (0-4 Northwest League, fifth)
Returning lettermen: Seven
Returning starters: One offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: OL Adrian Brown (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DL Adrian Brown (Sr.); Alex Bramasco (Jr.); Mauricio Coya (Sr.): DL Ethan Overson (Jr.)
Top newcomers: RB Jeremiah Bell (Sr.); QB Kendrick Nieves (Sr.)
Key losses: Ed Samano; Jordan Betts
Outlook: Maki returns to Rancho after coaching Del Sol for the past four seasons. He was head coach at Rancho from 2004 to 2007, and looks to add some stability as he becomes the fourth head coach in four seasons for the Rams.
Maki’s goals are simple. He’s looking to improve and field teams at all three levels (varsity, junior varsity and freshman).
There’s nowhere to go but up for Rancho, which was outscored 401-50 last season. The Rams scored in double digits only once, and were shut out three times.
— —
SHADOW RIDGE
League: Class 4A Northwest
Head coach: Travis Foster, third season (6-13)
2016 record: 5-4 (2-4 Northwest League, sixth)
Returning lettermen: 25
Returning starters: Seven offense, nine defense
Base offensive set: Flexbone
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: RB Aubrey Nellems (Sr.); RB Kaejin Smith-Bejgrowicz (Sr.); QB Kody Presser (Jr.); RB Elisha Young (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Aubrey Nellems (Sr.); S Kaejin Smith-Bejgrowicz (Sr.); DT Ricky Tuiletufuga (Sr.); LB Chase Horlacher (Sr.)
Top newcomers: WR Kim Kahuna; OL/DE Isiaha Tucker; OLB Kamuela Palikiko; FB/ILB Clayton Nauta
Key losses: OL Byron Kekahuna; OL Frank Anastasia; RB Malik Lindsey
Outlook: The Mustangs turned the corner last season, finishing above .500, but still missed out on the postseason.
Shadow Ridge averaged 305 rushing yards last season, but must replace leading rusher Lindsey (1,239 rushing yards, 10 TDs) along with all-league offensive lineman Kekahuna, who played a huge role in opening holes for the running game.
Young (479 rushing yards, four TDs), Nellems (341 rushing yards, six TDs) and Presser (339 rushing yards, four TDs) should help carry the load offensively.
Presser also passed for 501 yards, and will be in his third season at quarterback.
On defense, Smith-Bejgrowicz was a first-team All-Northwest League pick at safety after finishing with 40 tackles. Horlacher is back after leading the team with 59 tackles, and Tuiletufuga led the Mustangs with four sacks.
Nellems also should play a key role on the defensive side as Shadow Ridge looks to earn a playoff berth in a tough league.
— —
SIERRA VISTA
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: John Foss, fifth season (20-20)
2016 record: 8-2 (5-1 Southwest League, second)
Returning lettermen: 22
Returning starters: Five offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Multiple
Base defensive set: 4-3
Top offensive players: RB Bryan LaGrange (Sr.); WB/RB Jaxson Zibert (Sr.); WR Kevin McCray (Sr.); WB/RB Tristen Jimenez (Jr.)
Top defensive players: DT Keki Faatiliga (Sr.); DT Isaiah Palelei (Sr.); LB Austin Schmits (Jr.)
Top newcomers: LB/WB Jahsiaah Maiava (Jr.); LB/RB Tarlase Gaoteote (Jr.)
Key losses: QB Oscar Aliaga; LB/RB Lopaka Kolone; LB Shane Alcantra
Outlook: The Mountain Lions made big strides last season, going from three wins in 2015 to an 8-1 regular-season mark and a home playoff game.
Foss is hopeful that the team can again make the playoffs and improve on last season’s performance.
The Mountain Lions gave up 193 points last season, but 109 of those came in the final two games — losses to Bishop Gorman and Legacy.
The defense should be able build around massive defensive tackles Faatiliga and Palelei. Palelei was a first-team All-Southwest League pick, and Faatiliga made the second team.
Kolone and Alcantra were the team’s leading tacklers, but their loss should be softened by the additions of Maiava and Gaoteote.
LaGrange is back to lead the offense after rushing for 793 yards and 11 TDs as a junior. Zibert was the team’s top receiver with 282 receiving yards and four touchdowns.
— —
SILVERADO
League: Class 4A Southeast
Head coach: Andy Ostolaza, first season
2016 record: 8-3 (3-2 Southeast League, third)
Returning lettermen: Nine
Returning starters: Two offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Multiple
Base defensive set: 4-3
Top offensive players: QB Kana Hoapili (Jr.); QB/WR Carson Loosbrock (Sr.)
Top defensive players: SS Taison Etienne (Sr.); DT Linaudre Schwallie (Sr.); MLB Miron Mingo (Sr.)
Top newcomers: WR Bravyn Aquino (Jr.); WR Jeremy Alipio (So.); OLB Jacob Mendez (So.)
Key losses: RB Keikiokalani Misipeka, OL Jaeden Loa, OL Ryan Scoggins, LB Jordan Walker, S Pekelo Solomon
Outlook: The Skyhawks not only made the playoffs last season, but won a first-round road game before losing to state runner-up Liberty in the Sunrise semifinals.
But the team suffered some key losses, including coach Randall Cunningham, who went 15-7 in two years as head coach.
Ostolaza, who previously coached the Skyhawks for eight seasons going 40-39, returns and also must replace workhorse running back Misipeka (1,601 yards, 20 TDs) along with all-state offensive lineman Scoggins and all-state safety Solomon.
Hoapili and Loosbrock each saw limited action last season. Hoapili completed 5 of 6 passes for 97 yards and two TDs, and Loosbrock was 10-for-21 for 100 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
Ostolaza said he hopes the gets better each week.
— —
SPRING VALLEY
League: Class 4A Southwest
Head coach: Marcus Teal, eighth season (29-37)
2016 record: 4-6 (3-3 Southwest League, fourth)
Returning lettermen: 13
Returning starters: Six offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Multiple sets (pistol)
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: QB Sylo Staton (Sr.); RB Kevin Benoza (Sr.); WR Marquelle Diggs (Sr.); RB/WR Kash Jenkins (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Clark Genneken (Sr.); DE Joseph Pienta (Sr.)
Key losses: QB K.C. Moore; TE/DE Noah Williams; DB Tavion Smith; WR Josh Arredondo; OL Nathan Hunt
Outlook: Teal expects the offense to carry the Grizzlies this season as the team looks to make the playoffs for the fourth time in five seasons.
Staton, who played at Canyon Springs as a sophomore, should be the key in leading the offense. Moore carried the team offensively last season, passing for 2,012 yards and 18 TDs and rushing for 505 yards and five scores.
Diggs (33 catches, 527 yards, seven TDs) was the team’s leading receiver last season, and should be the Staton’s top target along with Jenkins (16 catches, 264 yards).
Benoza (246 yards) is the top returning rusher.
Genneken was third on the team with 51 tackles last season.
“The Grizz offense will be turned over to newcomer Sylo Staton, and he will try to continue the Grizzly tradition of being a playoff team,” Teal said.
— —
VALLEY
League: Class 4A Northeast
Head coach: Quincy Burts, first season
2016 record: 2-8 (1-3 Northeast, fourth)
Returning lettermen: Nine
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: RB Bryce Jones (Jr.); WR Leyland Crawford (Sr.); WR Trayvion Mack-Escoto (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DE Anias Brewington (Sr.); LB Jeffery Maestas (Sr.)
Top newcomers: QB Endy Diaz (Sr.); DE Josiah Newbern (Sr.); DB/WR Deshaun Sells (Sr.)
Key losses: ATH Iyen Medlock
Outlook: Burts inherits a team that snapped a 21-game losing streak last fall and made the playoffs for the first time since 2011.
And he has set lofty goals for this season: “To be very competitive, get off to a good start early and host a playoff game,” Burts said.
To do that, Valley must find a replacement for Medlock, a first-team All-Northeast League pick who led the Vikings with 19 catches for 382 yards and two TDs. He also rushed for 206 yards and six scores.
Jones, Mack-Escoto and Crawford all should get more touches this season, but the key could be improving on defense.
The Vikings allowed 50 or more points four times last season, and at least 40 seven times.
— —
CLASS 3A
CHAPARRAL
League: Class 3A Sunrise
Head coach: Paul Nihipali, fourth season (20-14)
2016 record: 6-6 (2-2 Sunrise League, third)
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 4-3
Top offensive players: RB Tyray Collins (Sr.); QB Iopu Pauiliili (So.); RB Trayvius Hodge (Sr.); OL Victor Sanchez (Sr.)
Top defensive players: S Tyray Collins (Sr.); MLB Travius Hodge (Sr.); LB/DE Demetrius Jackson (Sr.)
Key losses: QB Santiago Vialpando; WR Kentrell Petite; WR/TE Devin Gaddy; RB Jacob Ford
Outlook: As the Sunrise League’s No. 3 seed last season, Chaparral made it to the state semifinals before losing to Spring Creek.
The Cowboys have their work cut out for them this season, as they must replace massive parts of their offense. Vialpando (2,417 yards passing, 32 touchdowns), Ford (501 yards rushing, 10 TDs), Petite (1,218 yards receiving and 15 TDs) and Gaddy (859 yards receiving, 14 TDs) all have graduated.
Collins appears to be the Cowboys’ top returning player. The senior scored eight touchdowns last season and was second on the team in interceptions with three.
“We are rebuilding this year,” Nihipali said. “Hope these kids can step up.”
— —
CHEYENNE
League: Class 3A Sunset
Head coach: Carlton Lamb, first season (0-0)
2016 record: 5-5 (4-1 Sunset League, second)
Returning starters: Six offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Pistol
Base defensive set: 3-5-3
Top offensive players: RB Clarence Rose (Sr.); OL Chris Rose (Jr.); OL Denzell Brown (So.); OL Donyell Brown (So.)
Top defensive players: LB Clarence Rose (Sr.); DL Adrian Brightwell (Jr.); LB Larry Stewart (Sr.); LB Khalil McKenzie (Sr.); DB Anthony Walker (Sr.); DL Jesus Esquivas (Sr.)
Key losses: QB Matthew LaBonte; WR/RB Deriontae Green; RB/WR Corwin Bush; WR/S William Federson
Outlook: The second-seeded Desert Shields were upset by Chaparral in the first round of the playoffs last season. They will look to make their seventh consecutive playoff appearance this season.
Lamb, in his first year coaching the Desert Shields, will look to his offensive line to open up holes for Clarence Rose to get the ground game going.
Cheyenne must find a way to replace its top passer in LaBonte (1,201 yards passing, 11 touchdowns), its top rusher in Green (805 yards, seven TDs) and its top receiver in Bush (499 yards receiving, four TDs) from last season.
“If our young players mature quickly and we stay together as a team and avoid injuries, we think we can be very competitive,” Lamb said.
— —
DEL SOL
League: Class 3A Sunrise
Head coach: Mike Valenzuela, first season
2016 record: 4-6 (1-3 Sunrise League, fourth)
Returning lettermen: 18
Returning starters: Four offense, seven defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: RB Taariq Flowers (Sr.); QB Maalik Flowers (So.); WR Markell Turner (Jr.); WR Barry Williams (Sr.)
Top defensive players: SS Barry Williams (Sr.); OLB Jason Hoyer (Sr); ILB Victor Cano (Sr.); ILB Darrion Webb (Sr.)
Top newcomers: WR Markell Turner (Jr.)
Key losses: WR/S Jonathan Spearman
Outlook: The Dragons will look to their explosive athletes in hopes of returning to the Class 3A Southern Region playoffs.
Taariq Flowers, who rushed for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, should be one of the state’s top rushers this season. Younger brother, Maalik Flowers, should be more seasoned with a year under his belt.
The defense, meanwhile, returns seven starters, including standout safety Barry Williams.
“We have a handful of explosive athletes that I expect to create conflict for teams each week,” Valenzuela said. “We expect to compete on a weekly basis and to enter into the playoffs playing our best ball. The hope and goal is to be in a position entering the playoffs to win a few games.”
— —
DESERT PINES
League: Class 3A Sunset
Head coach: Tico Rodriguez, fifth season (42-6)
2016 record: 12-1 (5-0 Sunset League, first)
Returning lettermen: 10
Returning starters: Four offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 4-3
Top offensive players: WR Jaden Mitchell (Sr.); WR DeAundre Newsome (Sr.); QB Tyler Williamson (Jr.)
Top defensive players: LB Anthony Allen (Sr.); DL Lorenzo Brown (Sr.); DL Gabriel Lopez (So.)
Key losses: QB/WR/S Randal Grimes; RB Isaiah Morris; WR/LB/S Tony Fields; WR/DB Antonio Wallace; S Eddie Heckard; LB Jautae Collins; DL Jalen Graves
Outlook: The defending state champions certainly were cleaned out by graduation, but the Jaguars have reloaded and again should be one of the favorites in Class 3A.
Desert Pines lost Grimes (Southern California), Morris (UNR), Fields (Arizona), Wallace (Arizona) and Graves (UNLV) to graduation. But the Jaguars got a glimpse of the future in Williamson in their final two games of the season last year, as the 6-foot-1-inch dual-threat quarterback threw for six touchdowns and ran for two more scores in a pair of wins.
In Desert Pines’ 39-6 win over Spring Creek in the state final, Williamson went 16-for-20 passing for 266 yards and three TDs and ran for a TD. This year, his favorite targets should be the Arizona-bound Mitchell, a Desert Oasis transfer, and Newsome (296 yards receiving, three TDs).
Lopez, who had six sacks last season, will anchor the defense.
“We’re rebuilding right now,” Rodriguez said. “We have talent, but this is basically a sophomore-based team. I think we’re going to be able to compete, but we’re just hoping to get better week by week.”
— —
MOAPA VALLEY
League: Class 3A Sunrise
Head coach: Brent Lewis, 16th season (135-46)
2016 record: 7-4 (3-1 Sunrise League, second)
Returning lettermen: 12
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Wing-T spread
Base defensive set: Odd front
Top offensive players: RB Braeden St. John (Jr.); WR Derek Reese (Jr.) QB Daxton Longman (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Leo Rios (Jr.); LB Logan Jackson (Sr.); LB Derek Reese (Jr.)
Key losses: RB Jacob Leavitt
Outlook: The Pirates are a perennial state contender, and this year should be no different.
Moapa Valley lost to eventual state champion Desert Pines in the state quarterfinals last season and must replace one of the state’s top running backs in Leavitt, who rushed for 1,547 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Led by Rios in the middle, the Pirates return a standout linebacker crew and defense.
“We want to win our league title first, but we plan on challenging for a state championship,” Lewis said. “That’s what we expect every year.”
— —
MOJAVE
League: Class 3A Sunset
Head coach: Abraham Gonzalez, second season (1-8)
2016 record: 1-8 (1-4 Sunset League, fifth)
Returning lettermen: 11
Returning starters: Eight offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Single wing
Base defensive set: 3-5
Top offensive players: RB Tawee Walker (Jr.); OL Dylan Mleynek (Sr.); OL Ivan Parra (Jr.)
Top defensive players: DE David Warren (Jr.); S Xavier DeLong (Jr.)
Key losses: WR/QB/DB Taiwan Braden; RB Khalid Walker; WR Antonio Wayman; DE Nick Kline
Outlook: The Rattlers won just one game last year, but should be in line to make their first playoff appearance since 2015.
Linemen Mleynek and Parra lead eight returners on offense and will be key in helping Walker find space in the ground game.
Mojave must find a replacement for Kline, the team’s leading tackler last year. Warren will get the push up front on defense this season, and DeLong will clean up at safety for Mojave.
“We’re expecting to make the playoffs, and we should have a winning record this season,” Gonzalez said. “Our offense was our weakness last season, but now we’re moving the ball. And defense has always been our staple.”
— —
PAHRUMP VALLEY
League: Class 3A Sunset
Head coach: Joe Clayton, second season (6-4)
2016 record: 6-4 (3-2 Sunset League, third)
Top offensive players: RB/DB Nico Velazquez (Jr.); RB Nickolas Redmond (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DB Cory Bergan (Sr.)
Key losses: QB Parker Hart; RB Aaron Fuentes; RB Drew Walker; RB Case Murphy
Outlook: The Trojans are coming off their first playoff appearance since 2012, and could be in line for a return trip.
Pahrump Valley must find a way to replace its top two rushers in Fuentes (407 yards, four touchdowns) and Walker (365 yards, two TDs). But the Trojans bring back Velazquez, who rushed for 326 yards and five TDs and added 129 receiving yards and a pair of scores.
Bergan, who led Pahrump Valley with four interceptions, will lead the defense.
— —
SUNRISE MOUNTAIN
League: Class 3A Sunset
Head coach: Chris Sawyers, fourth season (10-19)
2016 record: 3-7 (2-3 Sunset League, fourth)
Returning lettermen: 12
Returning starters: Eight offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: RB Trayvon Ward (Sr.); RB/WR X’avier Kyles (Jr.); WR Te’Andre Love (Sr.); QB Tyree Hayes (Jr.); OL Jose Lara (Jr.)
Top defensive players: LB Dalwin Spates (Sr.); CB Anthony Proby (Sr.); LB Logan Rollins (Sr.); DE Mardoqueo Lovo (Sr.)
Top newcomers: OG Christian Fuentes (So.); LB/DE Jeremiah Ford (So.); S/WR Anthony Anderson (So.)
Key losses: QB Stephen Wright; WR Daltyn Pytrysson; LB Dante Anderson; DL Ja’twion Farmer; DB Dante Calahan; OL/DL Christian Vargas
Outlook: After making the playoffs each of the last two seasons, the Miners will turn to a veteran group this season in hopes of winning a couple of games in the postseason.
Sunrise Mountain, which earned the Sunset League’s No. 4 seed last season, returns eight of 11 starters on offense, including running back Ward, who led the team with 526 yards rushing and eight touchdowns last year. Hayes, who was the team’s top wideout last season with 619 receiving yards and five touchdowns, will switch to quarterback and try to replace the do-it-all Wright (2,174 yards passing, 22 TDs).
Linebackers Spates and Rollins, meanwhile, will anchor the defense.
“The Miners look to not only make the playoffs for the third straight time, but to also advance and make a title run behind a core group of returning players on both sides of the ball,” Sawyers said.
— —
VIRGIN VALLEY
League: Class 3A Sunrise
Head coach: Yori Ludvigson, fourth season (17-12)
2016 record: 9-2 (4-0 Sunrise League, first)
Returning lettermen: Nine
Returning starters: Three offense, three defense
Base offensive set: Pro, Spread, I-Formation
Base defensive set: 4-3, 5-2
Top offensive players: RB Jayden Perkins (Sr); QB Cade Anderson (Sr.); OL Dayton Payne (Sr.); OL Taua Fiso (So.)
Top defensive players: LB Cresent Crandall (Sr.); DE Timmy Moaie (Sr.); LB Jayden Perkins
Top newcomers: OL/DL Jeremy Perkins (So.); DB/WR Easton Jensen (Sr.)
Key losses: QB Hogan Fowles; DL/OL Chase Henderson; DL/OL Jaden Dalton
Outlook: After winning their first league title since 2007, the Bulldogs were upset — 34-16 to Chaparral — last season in the Class 3A state quarterfinals.
Despite losing 28 seniors from that team, Virgin Valley should again compete in the Sunrise League. The Bulldogs return one of the state’s top two-way players in Perkins, who rushed for 1,369 yards and 18 touchdowns and was a standout linebacker.
“The team has worked hard in the weight room and offseason,” Ludvigson said. “If we stay healthy and stay together, if could be a special year.”
— —
WESTERN
League: Class 3A Sunset
Head coach: Tyler Tuiasosopo, first season (0-0)
2016 record: 0-9 (0-5 Sunset League, sixth)
Returning starters: Five offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Pro
Base defensive set: Multiple
Top offensive players: TE Eric Hughes (Sr.); QB Joey Medley (Sr.); RB Rayjon Reed (Sr.); OT James Harris (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DT/DE Kameron Hollins (Sr.); SS Gio Garcia (Sr.); DB Anthony Shelby (Sr.); DL Edgar Escandon (Sr.)
Top newcomers: DT/DE Julian Nance (Sr.); OT/DT Chris Cisneros (Jr.); WR/DB J’Veon Jackson (Jr.)
Key losses: RB Rodger Harrison; WR Kwan Carter
Outlook: Western has lost 43 straight games since a forfeit victory over Shadow Ridge on Aug. 31, 2012. The Warriors’ last on-field victory came Nov. 5, 2010, against Pahrump Valley (20-14).
Tuiasosopo will have his hands full in trying to “bring (a) winning tradition back to Western.”
Western lost its leading rusher and receiver from a year ago but return quarterback Medley, who threw for 700 yards and three touchdowns last season.
— —
INDEPENDENT
BOULDER CITY
League: Independent
Head coach: Chris Morelli, third season (2-16)
2016 record: 1-8 (0-4 Class 3A Sunrise League, fifth)
Returning lettermen: 15
Returning starters: Seven offense, Seven defense
Top offensive players: WR Briggs Huxford (Sr.); WR Zach Trone (Sr.); OL Michael Kaposta (Jr.)
Top defensive players: LB Jimmy Dunagan (Jr.); LB Thorston Balmer (Jr.)
Top newcomers: WR/SS Travis Hungerford (Jr.); QB/S Shaun Jones (Jr.)
Key losses: QB Taylor Hatchel; RB Dillon Viera; K Justin Fox
Outlook: The Eagles moved from Class 3A to Independent this season and that should help add a couple of victories.
Boulder City returns its top rusher in Balmer (50 carries, 257 yards), receiver in Huxford (17 catches, 212 yards) and scorer in Trone (three touchdowns).
— —
CLASS 2A
CALVARY CHAPEL
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Zac Odom, first season
2016 record: Did not field a team in 2016
Outlook: The Lions return to the football field after not fielding a team last season. They will look to turn their fortunes around, as they did not win a game in 2015, and are 2-23 since 2013.
— —
DEMOCRACY PREP
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Keith Jones, second season (2-5)
2016 record: 2-5 (2-4 Class 2A Southern League, fifth place)
Top offensive players: QB Micah Gayman (So.), RB Steven Burgess (Jr.)
Top defensive players: CB Steven Burgess (Jr.)
Key losses: WR Zeivaun Ned, WR Xavier Hewing
Outlook: The artists formerly known as Agassi Prep look to bounce back to the postseason after missing the playoffs the last two years. The Blue Knights had a quarterback in Gayman who threw for 1,027 yards as a freshman and despite losing his two top targets, figures to improves as he matures. Burgess is also back, and he led the team in interceptions and tackles.
— —
LAKE MEAD
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Mitch Johnson, first season
2016 record: 4-6 (3-3 Class 2A Southern League, fourth)
Returning lettermen: 20
Returning starters: 10 offense, 10 defense
Base offensive set: Split back veer
Base defensive set: 3-4
Top offensive players: RB Jared Regan (Sr.); QB Joshua Thorell (Sr.); RB Mitch Dolinar (Sr.)
Top defensive players: LB Logan Sullivan (Sr.); LB T.J. Yurek (Sr.); CB Marcus Gonzales (Sr.)
Outlook: The Eagles made the postseason for the first time in their history last season and will be looking to build on that. They started league play 0-2 and won three of their next four games, including beating Agassi Prep 40-22 on the last day of the season to clinch a postseason berth.
“Looking to win Class 2A Southern Nevada championship and make the playoffs, hopefully a deep run in the state playoffs,” first-year coach Mitch Johnson.
— —
LAUGHLIN
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Tom Sattler, first season
2016 record: 3-6 (1-5 Class 2A Southern League, sixth place)
Top offensive players: QB Diego Trujillo (So.)
Key losses: RB Coda Abatti, LB Austin Coulston
Outlook: The Cougars were it hard by graduation and will look to improve on a squad that won just one league game. Laughlin did win a pair of nonleague games, and a took a winning record into Southern League play. The Cougars will look to make the playoffs for the first time since 2012.
— —
LINCOLN COUNTY
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Raymond Wadsworth, first season
2016 record: 9-1 (6-0 Class 2A Southern League, first)
Returning lettermen: Seven
Returning starters: Seven offense, seven defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: Base 3-5
Top offensive players: WR Landen Smith (Sr.); WR Noah Smith (Jr.); WR Kamden Lewis (Jr.); OL McKinley O’Connor (Jr.)
Top defensive players: DL McKinley O’Connor (Jr.); DL Mathew Finnlinson (Sr.)
Key losses: QB Cody Thornock, C/DE Kevin Mathews, OL/DL Jordan Povis
Outlook: Lincoln County’s quest for a state championship was thwarted in the semifinals in a loss to Yerington, the second year in a row Yerington had bumped the Lynx from the playoffs. The Lynx also lost their quarterback, some size on the defensive line and have seen their participation numbers drop this season.
“It’s going to be a tough year for us because of numbers, the lack of numbers,” coach Wadsworth said.
But a team does not go 9-1 without a strong team overall. The Lynx swept through league play and only had one regular season opponent come within two scores. They return plenty of skill on the outside, and should be a favorite to win their third league crown in a row.
“I think we’ll be solid all the way around barring injuries,” Wadsworth said. “Our goal is to compete for a state championship.”
— —
MOUNTAIN VIEW
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Frank DeSantis, first season
2016 record: 0-7 (0-6 Class 2A Southern League, seventh)
Returning lettermen: Seven
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Base offensive set: Multiple
Base defensive set: Even front
Top offensive players: QB Tyrell Brooks (Sr.); WR Terrence Brooks (Sr.)
Top defensive players: DL Nathan Santiago (Sr.)
Key losses: RB/LB Isiah Johnson
Outlook: The Saints struggled in 2016 and were unable to get into the win column. To turn their fortunes around, the Saints handed head coaching duties to DeSantis. The former coach at The Meadows led the Mustangs to seven state championships in his 14 seasons.
DeSantis said Mountain View is still getting acclimated to having a new coach.
“We’re a little behind the eight ball,” DeSantis said. “New system, stuff like that. Work ethic, them learning what to expect.”
— —
NEEDLES
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Matt Fromelt, third season
2016 record: 9-2 (5-1 Class 2A Southern League, second)
Returning lettermen: 15
Returning starters: Five offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Pro
Base defensive set: 50
Top offensive players: QB Jayden Yeager (Sr.); WR Trey Tsosie (Sr.); TE Doogie Harvey (Jr.)
Top defensive players: DL Trey Tsosie (Sr.); DL Marshall Jewell (Jr.)
Key losses: RB Derek Wagstaff; RB Frankie Garcia
Outlook: The Mustangs lost once to a Southern Nevada team, and it was by one point to the Lincoln County squad that won the league. With a glut of returning talent, Needles believes it has what it takes to win its first league championship since 2010. Keep an eye on the Oct. 13 home game against Lincoln County, as well as the Sept. 8 road game against Class 3A Boulder City.
“(We) hope to be competitive in the Southern 2A division,” coach Matt Fromelt said.
— —
THE MEADOWS
League: Class 2A Southern
Head coach: Jack Concannon, first season
2016 record: 5-4 (4-2 Class 2A Southern League, third)
Returning lettermen: Eight
Returning starters: Four offense, five defense
Base offensive set: Double wing
Base defensive set: 4-2-5
Top offensive players: OL Kalei Mossler (Sr.); OL Ron Ortiz (Sr.); OL Zach Aaron (Jr.)
Top defensive players: OL Kalei Mossler (Sr.); OL Ron Ortiz (Sr.); LB Zach Aaron (Jr.); TE Hasan Iqbal (Sr.); DB Peter Hoskins (Jr.); LB Justin Badoyen (Jr.); LB Robert Swallow (Sr.)
Key losses: QB/DB Jack Berkley; RB/DB Antonio Gutierrez; WR/DB Sam Mason; WR/DB Asheesh Chopra; OL/LB Connor Bucknam
Outlook: The Meadows has made the playoffs each of the last four seasons and 12 of the last 13, and appear to be on that track again in 2017.
“We are looking to certainly compete, no question about that,” first-year coach Concannon said. “We’re trying to re-establish ourselves.”
Where the Mustangs will win games is in the trenches. They return a strong offensive line led by Mossler, Ortiz and Aaron, and will look to compensate for the loss of some key offensive skill players.
“We’re big up front and experienced and that can lead to great things,” Concannon said.
— —
CLASS 1A
PAHRANAGAT VALLEY
League: Class 1A Southern
Head coach: Brett Hansen
2016 record: 11-1 (7-0 Southern League, first)
Returning lettermen: 20
Returning starters: Three offense, four defense
Base offensive set: Pro
Base defensive set: 3-3-2
Top offensive players: TE Culen Highbe (Sr.) C Duston Stewart (Sr.), RG Garett Higbee (Sr.)
Top defensive players: OLB Richard Lewis (Sr.)
Key losses: Tabor Maxwell, Christian Higbee, Ike Taylor, Cody Williams
Outlook: For the first time since 2007, there was a new Class 1A state champion. Pahranagat Valley’s record 104-game winning streak was snapped by Spring Mountain in the Class 1A state championship game last fall.
But the Panthers return a stable of lettermen, including tight end Culen Highbe.
“We look to build on the success of previous years and get better every day in our fundamentals and footwork,” Hansen said. “We hope to compete in the league and reach our potential as a team.”
— —
SPRING MOUNTAIN
League: Class 1A Southern
Head coach: Aaron Masden
2016 record: 9-2 (6-1 Southern League, second)
Returning lettermen: One
Returning starters: One offense, zero defense
Base offensive set: Spread
Base defensive set: 3-3-2
Top offensive players: Damariyae Royal (WR, Sr.)
Key losses: Eric Brooks, Aaron Harry, Zyon Butler
Outlook: Spring Mountain shocked Nevada football with its victory over Pahranagat Valley in the Class 1A state championship game last fall.
But most of the personnel from last year’s team has moved on, and head coach Masden will have to retool with a brand new group of players.
“Returning one player from the previous season has been the norm,” Masden said. “Although it’s very early in the process, Spring Mountain looks to be competitive in conference and divisional play this year.”
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TONOPAH
League: Class 1A Southern
Head coach: Duffy Otteson
2016 record: 6-4 (4-3 Southern League, fourth)
Returning lettermen: Four
Returning starters: Zero offense, one defense
Base offensive set: Double wing
Base defensive set: 4-2
Top offensive players: Kevin Pope (TE, Jr.) Brandon Scobee (RB, Jr.) John Shiflet (RB, Jr.) Max Swanson (OL, Jr.)
Top defensive players: Vance Day (LB, So.) Kevin Pople (DL, Jr.) John Shiflet (RB, Jr.)
Key losses: Tanner Otteson, Brendon Eason, Jordon Birkowitz, Freddy Lopes, Tyler Kirkland, Vinny Bagaros
Outlook: The Muckers don’t bring back any seniors, but they have group of underclassmen ripe with talent, and ready to contribute.
Tonopah was in the middle of the Class 1A pack last season and could struggle this season with its youth, but coach Otteson is optimistic about his team’s fortunes after a strong summer.
“They put a lot of work in the summer,” Otteson said. “We will work hard to be in the playoffs again.”
