Coach: Jim Aylward (first year)
Conference: East Class: B
Last year: 5-4, lost in regional quarterfinals
Returning players: Seniors — Anthony Franchetti (C/LB/K), J.T. Williams (HB/LB), Cody Vining (T/DT), Bubba Harris (DT); Juniors — Ryan Pratt (QB/DB), Nate Pratt-Holt (WR/DB).
Key losses: Colin Richards (T/DT), Connor Farrington (G/LB), Tyler Sennick (G), Cam Abbott (WR/QB/DB), Nate Backus (RB/WR/KR), Andrew Pratt (QB), Kindle Bonsall (RB), Dustin Richards (DE), Brian Durrell (DE).
Promising newcomers: Senior — Hunter True (OL/DL); Juniors — Alex Gilbert (HB), Will Gunter (G/MLB).
Season outlook: The two previous coaches each stayed for 21 years and combined for four state titles. Aylward matched that number of championships in 25 unforgettable seasons at Mountain Valley. Expect a shift from Gary Parlin’s air-dominated attack to the run-first philosophy that both Aylward and Ray Caldwell have embraced over the years. Williams and Gilbert are terrific backs to build that around. Mt. Blue would like to control time of possession while a young defense finds its footing. Aylward is high on the junior class, including Pratt-Holt, the Class A triple jump champion in track. The Cougars’ tradition of consistent excellence should continue.
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