Coach: Tim O’Connor (third year)

Class: Western D

Last year’s record: 1-7

Returning letter-winners: Seniors — Jared Vermette (QB/S), Austin Ryerson (TB/LB), Brett Gould (G), Tyler Cherkis (WB/LB), Zach Mills (DE); Juniors — Chris Chappie (FB/NT), Ryan Vail (C/DT), Zac Wheeler (G), Noah Rose (TE); Sophomores — Cameron Pike (TB/FS), Dylan Cherkis (T).

Key losses: Nick Mills (RB/DE), Will Lyman (FB/DL), Kurt Morgan (G/DT).

Promising newcomers: Juniors — Mohammed Al Zubadi (CB), Mike Dougherty (SE/DE); Sophomores — Calvin Glover (CB).

Season outlook: After picking up the first win since the program’s rebirth, the Rebels are focusing on becoming a factor in a realigned league. Numbers have leveled off to 26 kids, about what were had last year, but they now have the varsity veterans every program needs to grow. Vermette is a two-year starter but has seen action since the Rebels’ debut, and Vail is a three-year starter anchoring both sides of the line. O’Connor expects to spread the ball around more and be less predictable on offense. The Rebels will rely on their quickness to play what the coach calls a “spill and kill” defense that’s aggressive.

Copy the Story Link