Class 4A football team previews

The Rocky

Published August 21, 2008 at 1:21 a.m.

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2007 playoff results

* First round Ralston Valley 56, Loveland 42

Monarch 56, George Washington 6

Cherokee Trail 15, Pine Creek 14

Air Academy 17, ThunderRidge 14

Pueblo South 14, Longmont 9

Pueblo West 12, Dakota Ridge 10

Fountain-Fort Carson 28, Montrose 26

Broomfield 33, Sierra 14

* Quarterfinals Monarch 34, Ralston Valley 28

Cherokee Trail 10, Air Academy 0

Pueblo West 20, Pueblo South 10

Broomfield 7, Fountain-Fort Carson 6

* Semifinals Monarch 6, Cherokee Trail 0 (OT)

Pueblo West 21, Broomfield 14

* Championship Pueblo West 21, Monarch 14

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FOOTHILLS

Sierra looks like a wrecking ball, but it still has to get past three-time league champion Pueblo South, which handed the Stallions a 43-15 pasting last season. Their Oct. 31 matchup likely will determine the league title, unless Air Academy gets in the way. Castle View moves up from Class 3A, and Lewis-Palmer drops from Class 5A to join the league.

Air Academy, 2007: 10-2; Coach: Mike Hillstrom

After challenging Pueblo South in the league and making it to the second round of the playoffs, the Kadets return another strong senior class. The question is whether they are as talented as last year. The offensive line is anchored by all-league tackle Tommy Mayfield, and the defense returns leading tackler Jason Goins, a linebacker.

Castle View, 2007: 2-8 (3A); Coach: Ryan Hollingshead

The Sabercats, in their third season, move up to 4A with their first senior class. The maturity of the team, which will start about 10 seniors, comes just in time for this challenging league. L.A. McGee is a three-year starter at quarterback who rushed for 995 yards last season. He will be the key to Castle View's power running game and play-action passing. On defense, sophomore linebacker Kyle Fuoss could be a special player.

Cheyenne Mountain, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Kris Roberts

The Indians lost their final five games of 2007, but they return 12 starters after playing lots of younger players last season. Pete Perdue, an all-league running back, will switch to quarterback this season. The offense should be more dynamic with former Air Academy coach Brian Sherman as the offensive coordinator.

Lewis-Palmer, 2007: 1-9 (5A); Coach: Tony Ramunno

A change in classifications should be good after the Rangers struggled at 5A for several seasons. The defense will be solid, with eight starters back. Cole Shumacher and Grant Gan will apply pressure from opposing defensive end positions, and Brian Cole was honorable mention all-league in the secondary. On offense, leading receiver Seth Cavera returns to give quarterback Alex Drexler a good target.

Liberty, 2007: 0-10; Coach: Jaron Cohen

Cohen coached at Rockville, Conn., the past three years, where his team improved from 0-10 to two consecutive 5-5 seasons. The Lancers should put up points with three-year starting quarterback Markus Warren throwing to all-state junior Wes McKenzie (60 receptions in 2007). Cohen also will try to make the defense more aggressive this year.

Mesa Ridge, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Rob Braaten

The Grizzlies will be young, but the lines will be strong with Germany transfer Tyler Pond (6-2, 225) and returning starter Aaron Belle (6-3, 280). Roman Pacheco, one of five returning starters on defense, is a big-hitting safety who earned all-league honors last season. All-league defensive end Adam Cavender brings speed from the edge.

Pueblo South, 2007: 11-1; Coach: Mark Haering

Though depth is a factor for the three-time defending league champs, the Colts should field another formidable team behind a strong senior class. South won't overwhelm with size, but its speed will be impressive. The Colts' punishing ground game will be led by Cameron Wilhite, who moves from receiver to quarterback. Six starters return on defense.

Sierra, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Joe Roskam

After reaching the playoffs for the first time in nine years, the Stallions are loaded for another postseason run. Offensively, they return double-threat quarterback Latrell Burrows (1,400 yards passing, 685 yards rushing), all-state receiver Kelby Dias (36 receptions) and leading rusher Dontre Walker. Kansas State recruit Clarence Bumpas (16 sacks) and all-league safety Jamil Cooks lead a defense that returns eight starters.

Wasson, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Harold Brown

Disappointed by a 3-7 showing, the Thunderbirds will be out to prove themselves, starting with a tough non-league contest against Fountain-Fort Carson. Wasson has a strong nucleus returning on offense, with linemen Derek Linan and Cameron Ikerd, tailback Tanner Hidrogo and quarterback Zach Sanchez. Sanchez gained valuable experience starting as a sophomore last year.

NORTHERN

There's no reason to expect the league's powerhouse programs - Broomfield, Greeley West and Loveland - will drop off this season, but there are rising contenders ready to pounce if one of them stumbles. Longmont and Niwot will be formidable, senior-heavy Thompson Valley could be a dark horse and Greeley Central could be a dangerous spoiler to a contending team.

Broomfield, 2007: 12-1; Coach: Gary Davies

The state's top rushing attack last season loses a 2,000-yard rusher but brings back four returning linemen. In addition, elusive quarterback Chris Little brings a new dimension to the rushing game. On defense, the linebacker crew is a work in progress, but the backfield is solid with big safety Cody McAninch and all-league cornerback Cody Wheeler. Bryce Nobles (6-3, 275) is a Division I prospect who will anchor both lines.

Fossil Ridge, 2007: 9-3 (3A); Coach: Clint Fick

The Sabercats are a young team that might experience growing pains after joining one of the toughest 4A leagues. Four starters return on defense, led by linebacker Ryan Beard, the team's third-leading tackler. Sophomore Luke Biedscheid started at defensive tackle as a freshman. Offensively, the skill positions are set but the lines are inexperienced.

Greeley Central, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Mike Heatherly

The Wildcats were in almost every game last season but had many tough losses. This year's motto is, "No turbulence, just land the plane." Taylor Clark is a junior who will try to learn quickly behind a senior-led offensive line. The linebackers, led by senior Seth Koehn, will be the strength of the defense. Central plays Loveland, Greeley West and Broomfield at home this year.

Greeley West, 2007: 7-3; Coach: Mark Roggy

The Spartans lost some talented players, but one of the state's best programs keeps reloading. Four of five offensive linemen return, making life easier for whoever wins the quarterback job. A great receiving corps and junior running back/linebacker Max Morgan, a two-way all-league player who led the team in tackles and was second in scoring, also return. The linebackers should be outstanding with Morgan and Division I prospect Gavin Miller.

Longmont, 2007: 7-4; Coach: Doug Johnson

Longmont beat Greeley West and Loveland last year, besting two of the league's perennial powers, and reached the playoffs. This season looks promising as well, with eight starters back on each side. It starts with quarterback Jake Johnson, who took the league by storm as a sophomore. He's bigger now and ready to become a dual-threat weapon. Division I prospect E.J. Kreis leads the defense at safety, and Shaun Curtis was an all-league linebacker.

Loveland, 2007: 7-3, Coach: John Poovey

All but the center returns to the Indians' offensive line, which will be big and imposing. With two linemen weighing more than 300 pounds, the average weight of the four is 291. The top prospect of the group might be Lane Stuht (6-1, 265). The skill positions, which have been stellar in recent years, have potential but limited experience. If go-to guys emerge, the Indians could be very good.

Niwot, 2007: 6-4; Coach: Ron Tesone

After just missing the playoffs the past two seasons, the Cougars once again could pose a threat to the league's established powers. Senior Cody Lahman is an experienced quarterback who threw for more than 1,300 yards and nine TDs. Jeff Roueche, who signed with Wyoming, wreaks havoc on defense, where he registered nine sacks. The defense also has bruiser Tyler Strong (6-3, 260) at linebacker, where he led the team in tackles as a sophomore. Sean Morrison should be a dangerous kick returner.

Skyline, 2007: 1-9; Coach: Kevin Rice

The Falcons struggled in the first year of a new coaching staff, but Year 2 could raise some eyebrows. The defense, which returns seven starters, should help the Falcons stay in games. Sid Rodriquez is an explosive all-league defensive tackle, and Stuart Alt and Jose Chacon also are big, physical linemen. Geary Bakewell, a move-in from Atlanta, will cover a lot of ground at linebacker.

Thompson Valley, 2007: 4-6; Coach: Brian Inman

Twenty-four seniors will give the Eagles an experienced team, with several standouts. Alex Remmo (6-7, 275) is a huge lineman getting looks from Mountain West Conference schools, and sophomore running back Dorian Brown (6-2, 215) is a bruising back who could have a big year. The wideout corps should be solid, and Littleton transfer Matt Cary is the likely quarterback.

NORTH METRO

Circle Oct. 3. That's when Monarch plays Ralston Valley in a pivotal league contest. The teams now are league rivals after playing each other in five consecutive seasons, with Monarch winning three times. Standley Lake has the potential for a big season, and Littleton and Brighton should be factors.

Adams City, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Robert Dobbins

Dobbins, who played at the University of Colorado, is a police officer. His influence should bring a strong dose of discipline to the Eagles program. Speed is the team's strength, but size and numbers still are a problem. Senior Uriah Rivera is a promising prospect at quarterback. He will have a fleet receiving corps to which he'll throw.

Brighton, 2007: 5-5, Coach: Tom Ritter

The Bulldogs have two standouts on the offensive line in co-student body presidents Ben Jackson (6-2, 270) and Thomas Prewitt (6-6, 280). Both could play Division I football next season. The offense was sporadic last season, but with six starters back, including quarterback Raymond Ritter, it should be improved. Cornerback Robert Gleim (six interceptions) leads five returning starters on defense.

Littleton, 2007: 5-5; Coach: Chad Koepke

The Lions came on strong at the end of last season and could be much improved. They return all but three starters. Key pieces on offense are running back Mister Jones (1,287 yards) and three-year starter Derrick Schmitz on the line. The defense returns 10 starters, led by all-league safety Jessen Kirchner. The Lions should be contenders heading into a tough final leg of their schedule.

Monarch, 2007: 12-2; Coach: Phil Bravo

The state runner-up averaged 42.5 points last season on the way to the title game. Junior running back Brandon Vaughn, who rushed for 791 yards and averaged 8.6 yards a carry, will return as the top back in the Coyotes' prolific rushing attack. Monarch has to replace some key pieces on the line and will be tested with a grueling non-league slate.

Prairie View, 2007: 2-8 (3A); Coach: Rocky Schneider

Every starter returns for the Thunderhawks, who feature their first senior class. Leading rusher Eddie Powell has 4.35 speed in the 40 and will run behind a solid line, led by senior Rocky Stuchlick. Linebacker Marquis McNeal will be a key player on defense. Prairie View will dip into 4A slowly, with a Class 3A nonleague schedule, before diving into a challenging league tilt.

Ralston Valley, 2007: 11-1; Coach: Matt Loyd

Many weapons have to be replaced on offense, but a strong stable of running backs returns, along with 6-5, 250-pound Joe Purfield, the main cog on the line. The defense will be physical, with seven returning starters. Cornerbacks Colby Allen (6-2, 175) and Jason Dewitt (6-2, 165) will make opponents think twice about passing. The Mustangs again should live up to high expectations.

Standley Lake, 2007: 6-4; Coach: Don Morse

With an impressive senior class returning, it's not hard to project the Gators in the playoffs. Dual-threat quarterback Dennis Miller will play behind an experienced line, and the defense will be led by linebacker Adam Turner, who had 10 sacks last season. Both safeties, Todd Paicurich and Joe Slatterly, had five interceptions last year, and Dave Eden could be the best kicker in the state. He had 33 extra points and nine field goals a year ago.

Thornton, 2007: 0-10 (5A); Coach: Jeff Priestley

With a young team, the Trojans move down from Class 5A this season. Many players have the potential to be impact players. Thornton will run a three-wide set to take advantage of speed and skill at receiver. The defense returns the two leading tacklers from last season, defensive end Spencer Torrey and linebacker Kyle Johnson.

PIKES PEAK

This league built a rugged reputation last year, with Pueblo West, Fountain-Fort Carson and Pine Creek all reaching the playoffs. Pueblo West won the state title in its first postseason appearance. All three schools have the foundations for continued success, but West demonstrated that any team can make a miraculous rise. Will another Pikes Peak team surprise this season?

Coronado, 2007: 2-8; Coach: Bruce Grose

The biggest improvement under new coach Grose will be on the offensive line. Led by seniors Scott Hoffer and Chris Fries, the Cougars should have enough depth to run a rotation and keep the linemen fresh. With two good defensive ends in Luke Bakken and Alex Timberlake, the Cougars' pass rush could be formidable. Wide receiver Adam Kloos is the playmaker on offense.

Fountain-Fort Carson, 2007: 10-2; Coach: Mitch Johnson

Behind a senior-dominated squad, the Trojans will look to make the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season. Overall, nine starters return to the offense, but the quarterback and primary running back will be new. A big corps of receivers, led by all-league Michael Deborja, should help, as should an experienced defense led by Division I recruit Devon Harris at safety.

Mitchell, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Archie Malloy

As a sophomore, Mondarrius Benson rushed for 369 yards in Mitchell's final two games of 2007. This season, Benson could really do some damage. The Marauders might see the most improvement on defense, though, where eight starters return. The lines on both sides are a concern, but all-leaguer Brad Reeves will be a standout there.

Pine Creek, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Todd Miller

The Eagles, perennial playoff contenders, have only 12 seniors this season. But Pine Creek is bigger than it has been, and the lines will be solid. Up front on offense, Ryan Lockwood (6-2, 230), Dean Carlo (6-5, 235) and Kai Jarmusz (6-2, 285) will be the road pavers, but the rest of the offense is untested. All-league linebacker Connor Stevens, a junior, will lead a defense that returns six starters.

Pueblo West, 2007: 12-2; Coach: Monte Pinkerton

The Cyclones went from 5-5 in 2006 to their first state title last season. While many key players are gone, the cupboard isn't bare, with returning all-league performers Seth Allen (offensive line) and Zach Fillmore (H-back). Kicker/punter Albert Padilla, who made some key postseason field goals, also is a weapon. Overall, three starters return on offense and five on defense.

Rock Canyon, 2007: 6-5 (3A); Coach: Tom Lynch

The Jaguars move up from Class 3A, where they lost in the first round of the playoffs. They should fit in with this tough crowd behind the junior duo of quarterback Drew Sandlin (1,400 passing yards, 13 TDs) and receiver Keith Link (55 receptions, 950 yards). The 6-3 Link and 6-4 Tommy Albersharot are a quarterback's dream receiving corps. Dan Poindexter is the senior leader on the lines.

Sand Creek, 2007: 1-9 (5A); Coach: Ryan Leaming

The move from Class 5A will be good for the Scorpions, who have 13 starters back after a rough experience at the top classification. Dominique Harris and Opetia Tuiava are big running backs who will test opponents' line strength. Connor Putman is the Scorpions' sophomore quarterback who already has shown good leadership skills.

Widefield, 2007: 5-4; Coach: Bill Cook

After a successful 2007 campaign, the Gladiators will be very young. Only four starters return, and Widefield will restructure its offense to take advantage of team speed and limited size. Tailback Paul Browning and fullback Devon Hightower will be a powerful combination on the ground, and Chris Fenlon is a big, hard-blocking force at wide receiver. Safety Derek McCalister is the lone starter returning on defense.

SOUTHWEST

Now that the rest of the league has moved up to Class 5A, Montrose and Durango must battle through a 5A league to qualify for the 4A playoffs. Montrose was the league champion last year.

Durango, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Kyle Davis

The Demons will have eight starters back on offense and seven on defense in the second season of the coaching staff. Jordan Gillen was thrown into duty as a sophomore last year, but now he is a perfect fit as the quarterback of the Demons' option offense. Durango has excellent speed at the skill positions.

Montrose, 2007: 6-5; Coach: Todd Casebier

Kirk English will start at quarterback for the third straight year. He has helped lead the Indians to league titles the past two years, and he has five other returning starters on offense to help achieve that goal again. With eight starters returning, including three all-league players, the defense will hold up its end of the bargain.

WEST METRO

Heritage and Dakota Ridge are big favorites to go 1-2 in this new league, and the title likely will be on the line when the two face each other in the final game of the regular season. Wheat Ridge and Golden could challenge for playoff positions as well. Some former Denver Prep League teams could be much improved, but in a much more difficult league, their records might not reflect.

Dakota Ridge, 2007: 8-3; Coach: Ron Woitalewicz

The Eagles probably have the best shot at derailing Heritage. Five all-league players are back, giving them championship-quality talent at skill positions, offensive line and defensive backfield. Andrew Melton gained 1,300 rushing yards last season, Austin Rodriguez had 40 catches and 10 TDs and safety Taylor Accardi had three interceptions. Cameron Pritchett will have big shoes to fill as he moves to quarterback.

Denver North, 2007: 1-9; Coach: E. Paul Kelly

The numbers still are thin for the Vikings, but North could have a few hidden gems. Brandon Barella, a junior, came on strong toward the end of last season at running back. Antonio Escobedo will start at quarterback after getting lots of experience at H-back as a junior. Fabian Magallnes is a tough 6-4, 250-pound cornerstone of the offensive line. Overall, six starters return on each side of the ball.

Denver South, 2007: 7-3; Coach: Tony Lindsay

The dynamic passing combination of quarterback Derek Robinson and receiver Jevon Reynolds returns this season. Robinson threw for more than 2,000 yards last year, and 13 of his 23 TD passes were to Reynolds. Turmour Battle is a cornerback with 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash who already has signed with Minnesota. South had to play three freshmen last year who will be key parts of the team as sophomores. The Rebels are talented but still depth-challenged.

Denver West, 2007: 1-9; Coach: Mike Anthony

The only senior on West's squad, Juan Ortiz, will convert from tight end to quarterback after he impressed in seven-on-seven drills. The Cowboys will have several field-tested juniors who started as sophomores, led by the trio of David Lira, Jason Perez and Adam Salinas on the offensive line. The Cowboys will have eight starters back on offense and defense.

Golden, 2007: 5-5; Coach: John Roberts

Junior quarterback Ryan Stokes has looked great this summer after throwing for 1,493 yards last season. Eight juniors who started last season give the Demons a veteran look. The skill positions look good, with speedy tailback Nick Estrada and receiver Rhett Nebeker as Stokes' main targets in Golden's spread attack. The concern is depth on the line on both sides of the ball.

Green Mountain, 2007: 1-9; Coach: Bob Hudson

The Rams could be a different animal this season, with more size and strength up front. Senior Cody Swartzendruber (6-4, 185) will pack a punch at free safety and also play receiver. With his performance on the field and in the classroom, guard Jared Parker is a Division I prospect. The Rams were dedicated to the weight room during the summer and hope it pays off on the field this season.

Heritage, 2007: 10-2; Coach: Mike Griebel

With 15 starters back from a team that lost in the semifinals of the Class 5A playoffs, after being tied with eventual state champion Grandview at halftime, the Eagles move to 4A with a nasty disposition. Behind an experienced line led by 6-4, 290-pound Cody Sanders, junior quarterback Mitch Griebel could top the 2,500 total yards he accumulated last year. Senior linebacker Jason Buffum was 5A's leading tackler last season.

Kennedy, 2007: 3-7; Coach: Rich Martinez

With a new coaching staff, the Commanders will change their offense and defense. Denver West transfer Prince Stokes likely will start at quarterback, and three-year starter Oscar Zapata might play three positions as Kennedy tries to use his speed in the open field. Overall, the Commanders are junior-dominated with some big, quality linemen.

Lincoln, 2007: 5-4; Coach: Larry Gile

After winning five games in each of the past two years, the Lancers are looking to take the next step. Twice last year, the Lancers rushed for more than 300 yards and lost. The running game will be tough to stop again, with leading rusher Juanito Reyes and quarterback Sean Williams returning. Richard Sandoval (6-0, 315) was a two-way all-city performer. Overall, eight starters return on each side.

Wheat Ridge, 2007: 6-4; Coach: Reid Kahl

The 2006 state champs started slowly last season, but the Farmers were in every game and just missed the playoffs. They will be junior-dominated this year, with impressive speed at the skill positions and improved strength. Opponents will get big doses of Parker Orms, a running back/defensive back who already has Division I offers on the table. The offensive line, with three juniors, will need to jell quickly.

INDEPENDENT

Palmer Ridge, 2007: No team; Coach: Monty Gutowski

The Bears will play their inaugural season this fall when the school opens. With only sophomores and freshmen, Palmer Ridge will play against Class 3A Pioneer League teams. Gutowski, who coached at Lewis-Palmer for five years, has high expectations for 6-4 sophomore tight end/defensive end Collin Babcock and running back Chris Passett, who, with his work ethic, has emerged as a leader.

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