2007 PAC Football Preview


     Bethany Bison (4-6 Overall, 2-4 PAC in 2006)

With 19 starters returning following their best season since 2001, the Bethany College football program will look to build off last year’s success as they prepare for their second campaign under head coach Tim Weaver.


The former defensive coordinator at Columbia and Harvard, Weaver guided the Bison to a 4-6 overall record and 2-4 mark in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC) in 2006, the most wins since BC went 6-3 in 2001. And while Weaver enjoyed the accomplishments of last year, which included two victories after rallying from double-digit deficits, he remains very optimistic about the building up of a program that had won just three games in the three years prior to his arrival.

“We enjoyed modest success in our first year and played fairly well at home, which was one of our goals," said Weaver. “One of the biggest positives was that every close game we were in, we won. That means we are on the cusp of changing attitudes here because you have to believe you can win to pull those kinds of games out."


“Looking ahead to this year, one of the biggest improvements we made was on both lines,” said Weaver. “Those were areas we didn’t match up with other teams last year, but we should be improved because we have quite of few guys back and they’ve had another year in the weight room to get stronger."


“Our other area of major improvement is our overall depth,” said Weaver. “Our numbers are where we feel we’ve on healthy footing. And because we have so many players returning, our spring practice saw an increased comfort level with our terminology and schematics, which always helps.”

Although Bethany has eight starters back on offense, they will have a major hole to fill under center. Last year’s QB Brent Owens graduated after throwing for 1,400 yards and 13 touchdowns, while setting a new Bethany single-season record for completion percentage (62.0). Junior Matt Blumer returns after throwing for 436 yards and four scores in limited time last season and will battle three incoming freshmen for the starting position.


 Also in the mix for time is senior Milton Joyner (left), who usually plays wide out but was pressed into duty last year in the season finale against Washington & Jefferson (Pa.) College and was 18-for-26 for 111 yards.

“We were fortunate to inherit Brent as a senior but now it’s up to us to develop someone,” said Weaver. “Blumer will have a chance to compete for the job but he has to improve. Joyner brings a different skill set to the position and could see time, whether it’s a series, a quarter or a half. We also recruited some freshmen who will have a chance to compete right away. The bright side is, we have four QB's this year as opposed to three last year and none of them are seniors, so we aren’t just developing someone for this year.”

The other big question mark is at running back. Returning are juniors Nick Neratka, who ran for 122 yards last year, and Alex Bota, who rushed for 131, as well as sophomore fullbacks Trevor Litz and Stephen Mott, but Bethany must improve on a ground game that was ranked seventh in the PAC with just 71.1 yards per contest.

“Running back is another open position going into camp,” said Weaver. “Nobody really separated themselves last year, so it’s a question mark. We recruited some talented backs and they will compete with guys like Bota and Neratka for carries. At fullback, we have Litz and Mott who have developed into guys who play the position well.”


Just like last year, whoever the signal caller is will have a strong, skilled set of receivers to catch passes. Joyner (20 rec., 246 yds., 2 TDs) is back for his fourth year as a starter and looks to move up from his current positions of fourth on Bethany’s all-time receptions list (112) and ninth on the all-time receiving yards list (1,262).

Another returning starter is sophomore Matt Cruse, who was Honorable Mention All-PAC after totaling 35 catches for 475 yards and seven touchdowns. Junior Taylor McNeil, who hauled in 10 balls for 178 yards and two TDs before missing the final four games because of injury, provides big play ability on the outside with his speed, while senior tight end Mike Elias, who was Honorable Mention All-PAC after amassing 19 receptions for 150 yards, can line up inside or outside to provide another weapon for the Bison passing game.

“Similar to last year, this is the deepest, most talented position on our team,” said Weaver. “With Joyner, McNeil and Cruse, we have size, speed and athleticism on the outside. Elias gives us flexibility, as he can line up at tight end or receiver. We also have good depth at both spots, especially at tight end with the development late last year of Jorge Laboy, who we expect big things from this year.”

Four starters will return along the front line, headlined by junior left guard Brian Liptock, a Second Team All-PAC selection last year. He’s joined on the left side by sophomore tackle Chad Sedlacek, while the rest of the line’s interior consists of sophomore center Chris Bailey and junior right guard Justin Elkins. This group’s youth, as well as newfound depth behind another solid recruiting class, is what really gives Weaver high hopes about this area.

“Last year, we thought the line could be an issue, but it’s the complete opposite this year,” said Weaver. “We feel we can be good there this year and into the future since there isn’t a senior in the group of returning starters. They aren’t huge, but are athletic and do what we need them to do. We have a position to fill at right tackle but whatever we do there will upgrade that spot. We also hope with the incoming freshmen, that we can play more linemen this year to continue to develop guys for the future.”


With two starters and a host of veterans returning, the defensive line is also expected to see a boost in production. Sophomore DT John Gyure was named Honorable Mention All-PAC after he led the team in tackles for loss (nine) and sacks (four). BC’s tackle rotation will include sophomore Brad Hartley and senior Quinn Taylor, while back to fill the end spots are juniors Chris Boland, who had 29 tackles last year, Will Newcomb, who made 10 stops in six games before injuries ended his year, and sophomore Casey Elson, who moves over from tight end.

“We should be noticeably improved up front defensively,” said Weaver. “We really like our guys at tackle, led by Gyure, who had a great year as a freshman, Hartley, who we think can be very good, and Taylor, who improved and will contribute. On the end, we are excited to have Boland back, Newcomb is healed up from his injuries and Elson comes over after a year at tight end. We also recruited some good players who can help us right away at both spots.”


Bethany’s linebacking corps will have to replace the graduated Cliff Anderson, who led the team with 98 tackles in ’06. However, a sturdy group of playmakers is back, led by senior Bill Wineberg, who was second behind Anderson in hits with 75. Senior Kellen Lieb moves up from safety after recording 56 tackles last year, while senior Chance Kildow, who totaled 57 tackles, and senior Michael Wells, who missed five games last year due to injury, also return.

“We have an experienced, productive, talented group back at linebacker, although our concern there is depth because we don’t know who the back-ups are,” said Weaver. “Wineberg is coming off a good year, Lieb seems to be more a natural fit at linebacker than safety and if he stays healthy, Wells could be the best of them all.”

In the secondary, BC brings back all four starters from a group that helped the Bison rank first in the PAC in pass defense (152.4). On the corners are junior Brandon Zeman, who was Honorable Mention All-PAC after registering 43 tackles and two interceptions, and sophomore Michael Salters, who made 44 stops. The safeties are projected to be senior R.J. Faldowski, who had 30 tackles and led the team with four INT's, and junior Dante Fuscardo, who was in on 48 hits. Weaver, who also says to watch out for sophomore Nelson Mitzen and David Abel, feels much better about this area than he did prior to last year.

“We have all four starters back, so this is a much more stable situation than it was a year ago,” said Weaver. “Salters and Zeman started all 10 games at corner last year and played well. Fuscardo and Faldowski are both athletic, can make the big hit and should be a year better. We also have two sophomores in Mitzen and Abel than we feel good about.”


On special teams, half of the kicking/returning jobs are open going into camp. Elias will be the punter again after averaging 34.5 yards per kick and dropping 10 inside the 20-yard line last year, while McNeil, a two-time PAC Special Teams Player of the Week, will bring back kicks after averaging 25.3 yards over 18 returns, including a 93-yard touchdown against Hiram (Ohio) College. However, the place kicking and punt return jobs both need to be filled.

“Elias will be the punter again and we will probably have a freshman as our kicker, although that is wide open coming into camp,” said Weaver. “We are in good shape on kick returns, as McNeil is a threat to go all the way every time he touches it. But finding a punt returner who will catch the ball is a point of emphasis. We let too many hit the ground last year and lost a lot of field position, so we may go with the two best guys who can catch it and not necessarily hit home runs.”


When it comes to goals for the new season, which opens up Sept. 8 at Hiram, Weaver says his team still isn’t in a position to use wins and losses as a barometer for success. While his program goes into the season wanting to win the PAC for the first time since 1980, he will not lose focus on his long-term goal of building the program up to be a legitimate, constant threat to capture the conference crown.

“Our goals are not win-loss oriented right now,” said Weaver. “On the field, we need to improve our running game and also working on stopping the run defensively. Overall, we need to be competitive on a more consistent basis. While it was great to win the close games we were in, we also need to be better than losing by 35 or more three times. I would really like to see us play like we did against Thomas More last year (21-17 win on the road) every week and we should be alright."


“That doesn’t mean that we don’t want to compete for a championship,” said Weaver. “When we have our first team meeting, we will set the goals of winning the PAC and going to the playoffs and we will do everything we can to achieve that goal. However, if and when that isn’t mathematically possible anymore, then we’ll shift gears towards developing players. The program is still in its infancy in building back up and we need to continue building towards winning championships in the future.”
Geneva Golden Tornadoes (4-5 Overall in 2006)

 Geneva’s upcoming football season is all about new beginnings. The Golden Tornadoes are beginning their first season as a member of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference and NCAA Division III. In addition, Geneva will be playing its home games on a brand new synthetic surface after having played on a Reeves Stadium field for the past 82 years. After having spent the last 68 years as a member of the NAIA, Geneva’s athletic teams have officially made the jump to NCAA Division III, which will provide several feature match-ups against teams that Geneva has been facing off against since the 19th century.

 Attempting to rebound from a 4-5 season in 2006, Geneva will rely heavily on a solid core of experienced players returning on both sides of the ball. Although head coach Geno DeMarco saw one of his teams finish under .500 for just the third time in his career, four of the five losses were by an average of just over five points per game. Only three times in 2006 did Geneva’s offense generate more than 21 points. Its defense, however, proved to be quite stingy by holding opponents to 21 points or less in seven of its nine games last year.  Despite the record in 2006, Geneva's football team remained ranked in the NAIA post-season poll and finished the year as the number 29 team in the nation.

With a new field and a new conference in front of them, the Golden Tornadoes are looking to make a statement against some of its old-time rivals throughout the Presidents’ Athletic Conference.

Offense
 Geneva will look to retool its offense from 2006. With four-year starter Justin Sciarro gone, the offensive reigns will be passed along to a new starting quarterback in 2007. The odds-on favorite to win the quarterback job is junior Bobby Bondi. Bondi appeared sparingly throughout the 2006 season, mostly in short yardage situations. Bondi threw just four passes last year, although he did complete three of them for 17 yards.

In the backfield, Geneva will welcome back Javon Moody, although the offense will have to overcome the losses of both Brandon Nathan and Michael Cobb. Nathan finished his career as Geneva’s fourth all-time leading rusher. Moody carried the ball 70 times for 197 yards and four touchdowns in his first collegiate campaign. While the quarterback and running back positions may be lacking experience in 2007, Geneva’s receiving core is overloaded with experience. Leading receiver Michael Lehman graduated but starters Luke Duriancik and Brian Dvorsak will return to Reeves Stadium in 2007. The receiving duo combined for 66 catches and over 1000 yards, including five touchdowns. Geneva may get an added boost at receiver with the return of Ricky Schultz to the line-up.

Having skilled players to catch, run and throw the football is essential, but football people know that nothing can be accomplished on offense without a solid offensive line. Geneva lost its offensive line centerpiece with the graduation of center Jim Raley. Erich Eichler also graduated from the offensive line last year. Although there are holes to fill, Geneva can find solace in the fact that All-Conference performer Skyler Freed and two-year starter Anthony Banks will return in 2007. Other experienced linemen Bob Krusey and Michael Stewart will also line-up for Geneva in the upcoming campaign.


Geneva may also find some significant contributors in a very solid freshman class that will join the Golden Tornadoes this fall. “We are excited about the possibilities on offense this year,” said head coach Geno DeMarco. “Although we have some holes to fill left because of graduation, we are fairly confident that we have the right mix of talent to be able to put points on the board. We were not consistent enough last year and at times the offense was unable to capitalize on opportunities. We have to do a better job of scoring touchdowns when given the chance. I am confident our guys will find a way to get it done in 2007.”

Geneva’s offensive production may be one area that DeMarco would like to see improved in 2007. However, he also understands that protecting the football and moving the chains is almost as important as putting points on the scoreboard.

“We have to find a way to keep our offense on the field,” said DeMarco. “We didn't do a real good job with third down conversions last year and our defense seemed like it was always on the field. We need to move the football, control the clock and make our offense our best defender.”

Geneva will look for a balanced offensive attack in 2007 and with all the components in place to start a new campaign, the Golden Tornadoes should find themselves right at home in the new end zones at Reeves Stadium.


 Defense
Entering a new season, there is no debate that Geneva’s defense will be the most experienced of the three phases for the Golden Tornadoes. Despite the loss of some key players to the defensive eleven, Geneva certainly does not have a bear cupboard. Third all-time leading tackler Brian Hall has since departed, along with two-time all-conference defensive end Nick Phillips, however, Geneva has the luxury of a stocked linebacking core, in addition to a veteran secondary prepared for the upcoming season.

Gabe Gordon (at right in white jersey) , Greg Eberhart and Zach Feltrop, Geneva’s second, third and fourth leading tacklers from a year ago have all returned to patrol the defensive middle. Returning from a year off at another linebacker position will be Tim Bean, in addition to Bradley Roman, who is back from an injury that cut his season short a year ago. In the secondary, look for Keith Davis and Josh Crum to handle most of the corner responsibilities with Derek McElhaney and his four interceptions from a year ago, taking care of the free safety position.


“Our defense begins and ends with our linebackers,” said DeMarco. “From as long as I can remember, the linebacker position at Geneva has been the focal point of our defense. We lost one of the best in Brian Hall, but our other guys learned so much from him that I feel they are all ready to take off as a group.”

Geneva’s defensive line will be anchored by veteran returners Tony Antonini and Lucas Shuster. The D-line will also get a boost with the return of Brian Wilson to the defensive line-up. Geneva managed just nine sacks last year and will look to vastly improve that number with additional pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

“Much like our offense, we will need some people to step up and contribute more than they have in the past,” said DeMarco. “With each year, we have people that emerge onto the scene and surprise us with their productivity. We will need some of that magic this year as well, but we certainly have some tremendous athletes who have the potential to put together a very solid defensive unit.”

Since the mid-80’s when Coach DeMarco was wearing a Geneva uniform, solid defense has always been a Golden Tornadoes trademark and the 2007 season appears to be headed down that same road.

Special Teams
Without question, the most underrated part of a football team are its special teams. Whether it be the return game, the kicking coverage, or the placekicking and punting, special teams plays a huge role in the outcome of most football games. A year removed from losing an All-American in punter Zach Blair, Geneva was forced to deal with that absence in 2006. While nobody expected the loss of Blair to go unnoticed, the emergence of Andy Stopchick at punter and Larry Diday as Geneva’s placekicker proved to be a solid duo last year. Diday has since graduated, however, Stopchick will return to Reeves Stadium for his senior year as Geneva’s punter.

“Our guys did a solid job in the kicking game last year,” said DeMarco. “It wasn't flashy, but we got the job done.”

“I think Andy will do another solid job with a season under his belt, but we certainly need to find someone to handle the placekicking duties.”

While the kicking game is a major portion of the special teams units, the coverage of punts and kickoffs, as well as the return game can make or break any game. Geneva will look to members of its experienced receiving core to handle the majority of return duties. Both Duriancik and Dvorsak have shown flashes of brilliance returning kicks. Geneva must look to improve its overall return numbers from 2006 with just 7.3 yards on punt returns and 15.9 yards returning kick-offs.

“There is so much hidden yardage in the return game that you sometimes don't realize what an impact special teams has on field position throughout a game,” said DeMarco. “We need to make it easy on our defense and give teams 70 and 80 yard fields to score. Last year, we gave our opponents too many short fields and it eventually caught up with us.”


 The Coach
 For the past 14 years one constant has remained with Geneva football. Geno DeMarco, the school’s all-time winningest head coach, has compiled 95 victories and is just five away from Geneva’s first 100-game winner in football. “Each year, we are challenged with putting together a complete football team,” said the long-time coach. “I get more and more excited with each passing season having the opportunity to coach these young men about football and about life. I have been so fortunate to be given this opportunity.”

In addition to DeMarco, Geneva’s football staff has many quality coaches to ensure continued success for this program. “I would put our coaching staff up against anyone that we compete against. Our guys are so dedicated in getting the most out of these kids, both on and off the field. The time that is put in throughout the year is just incredible and I have a bunch of coaches that are only concerned with developing young athletes and molding these guys into young men.”

DeMarco will guide his team into a new conference in 2007 against some of Geneva’s all-time rivals. It was against many of these teams that DeMarco made a name for himself on the football field. “Some of these rivalries are so special. I talk to guys all the time that remember legendary games against the likes of Westminster, Waynesburg and Grove City. It is really exciting to know that all those memories won't be lost and that a new generation of football players will have the opportunity to experience the meaning of a true rivalry.”

DeMarco began his head coaching career at Geneva back in 1993 and only three times since has Geneva suffered a sub-.500 season. Last year, the Golden Tornadoes finished just 4-5, despite losing four games by an average of just over five points. “Our guys really competed last year, but we made some critical mistakes at bad times and it cost us football games,” said DeMarco. “We have to be more disciplined and do a better job protecting the football. We have guys that have loads of talent, but it is my job and our coaches to put them into situations of success.”

For the past 68 years, Geneva has continually made its mark as a member of the NAIA. As the 2007 season begins, the Golden Tornadoes are ready to continue their tradition of winning as a member of NCAA Division III and the Presidents’ Athletic Conference. With a new stadium to call home and a group of dedicated players and coaches, Geneva’s football program has never been healthier. The 2007 season is upon us and it should prove to be a fun ride.


Grove City Wolverines (3-7 Overall, 1-5 PAC in 2006)

An experienced nucleus on both sides of the ball will lead the Grove City College football team during the 2007 season, the 113th year of intercollegiate football in Grove City.


Grove City returns a dozen full-time starters, along with several other part-time starters. In all, the Wolverines return 28 lettermen this fall. Grove City also has several other veterans who will make significant contributions in 2007.

OFFENSE
Six starters return on offense, including two senior running backs, a quarterback that engineered one of the region’s most improved offenses last season, two top receivers and a two-time all-conference center.

In the backfield, senior tailback Matt Weil (pictured #32) and senior wingback Ian Tobin (pictured #26) are both returning starters. Weil has led Grove City in rushing each of the last two seasons. Tobin, meanwhile, caught 22 passes out of the backfield. His 11.8 yards per catch average led the team. Tobin also averaged 4.5 yards per carry. Senior Wes Basham is a three-year letterman at tailback. He will also challenge for a starting post in the backfield this fall.

Sophomore quarterback Andrew DiDonato (pictured with ball) started all 10 games as a rookie in 2006. DiDonato set new single-season records for pass completions (151) and attempts (275) in 2006. He threw for 1,554 yards and 13 touchdowns. DiDonato also scored six touchdowns and led the team in scoring.

On the perimeter, split ends Stephen Mercer and Jay Yanak both return after productive seasons last year. A converted quarterback, Mercer caught 21 passes in six games. The 6-foot-3 Yanak finished third on the team with 25 catches.

Senior Matt Gregg enters his third season as Grove City’s starting center. Gregg earned First Team All-Presidents’ Athletic Conference in 2006 after receiving Second Team honors in 2005. He is a three-year letterman.

Sophomore Chris Rich has moved from quarterback to tight end this year and is expected to play an important role in the passing game. At split end, junior Kory Kaye is battling for a spot after playing in Grove City’s multiple-receiver packages in both 2005 and 2006.

Gregg is joined on the offensive line by a pair of returning part-time starters. Senior Greg Frisch is the incumbent at left tackle while junior Brandon McHugh started three games at left guard in 2006.

Versatile junior Dave Salera earned his first letter in 2006. Salera can play both guard and center and will likely contend for the starting nod at right guard.

Sophomores Matt Ridge and Mike Zorch are among those competing for the right tackle position.

DEFENSE
Six starters also return on defense for Grove City, including four in the front seven. Numerous other veterans return from a young unit that showed constant improvement over the course of the 2006 season.

The Wolverines return their top three tacklers, including starting linebackers Ian Minster and Bill Waugh. A senior, Waugh led Grove City with 102 total tackles from his weakside linebacker position. Waugh also led Grove City with four sacks and 15 tackles for loss.

Minster started all 10 games at strongside linebacker as a sophomore last year. He ranked third on the squad with 71 stops. Minster also forced two fumbles in 2006.

Senior strong safety Shane Coughlin led Grove City in solo tackles (63) en route to making 90 total tackles in 2006. Coughlin will again play an integral role in the Wolverine defense in both run support and pass coverage.

On the defensive line, senior tackle Justin Fowler emerged as a stalwart in 2006. Fowler posted 42 total tackles, including six for loss. He also blocked seven kicks and earned Second Team All-PAC honors. Junior end Ryan Rylands started six games while sophomore Tony Clark made four starts at end. Both will compete for the full-time starting post this year.

Senior Ross McCracken, a three-year letterman and part-time starter in his career is a leading contender to start at defensive end.

The Wolverines also feature depth at linebacker. In addition to Minster and Waugh, Grove City also returns two-year lettermen Adam Eichler and Brian Mercer. Also back at linebacker is sophomore Aaron Talbott, who played on special teams in 2006.

In the secondary, junior cornerback Mike Baker finished second on the team with three interceptions. Baker started seven games last year and earned his first letter. Junior Matt Green and sophomore letterman Randy Santina are among the favorites to challenge for the other starting cornerback position.

At free safety, senior Jon Galante, junior Zach Fulmer and sophomore Vance Keirsey are all in the mix. Fulmer played as Grove City’s nickelback last year while Galante and Keirsey both saw action on special teams.

SPECIAL TEAMS
Competition is the watchword in preseason camp for Grove City’s special teams as nearly every job is up for grabs. Grove City has three place-kickers back this season. Senior Brandon McCall handled all of Grove City’s kicking in 2005 but suffered a season-ending injury in preseason camp last year. Grove City must also replace First Team All-PAC punter Henry Johnston.

Clark will long snap while Stephen Mercer will likely hold. Tobin and Mercer are expected to return kickoffs and punts this year.

SCHEDULE
Grove City’s 2007 schedule will have a Pennsylvania flavor to it as nine games will be played in the Keystone State. The Wolverines open the 2007 season against visiting Dickinson September 1 at Robert E. Thorn Field. Following the road opener at Carnegie Mellon September 8, Grove City will open Presidents’ Athletic Conference play at Thomas More September 15 in Crestview Hills, Ky.

Grove City will then host Waynesburg September 22 in the Wolverines’ first-ever night home game. The following Saturday, Grove City visits archrival Westminster to close the first half of the regular season.

Bethany will visit Thorn Field October 6 in Grove City’s annual Homecoming game. Grove City will then look to reclaim the coveted Mercer County Cup October 13 at cross-county rival Thiel.

The PAC schedule wraps up October 20 against visiting Washington & Jefferson. After an off week, Grove City will host first-year program Saint Vincent November 3 in the home finale.

Grove City will conclude the 2007 regular season at Geneva November 10 in Beaver Falls, Pa. It is the first meeting between the teams since 1983.

Both Geneva and Saint Vincent are playing full PAC schedules during their stint as provisional members of NCAA Division III.



Saint Vincent Bearcats (First Varsity Competition Since 1962)
Coach Bob Colbert has set simple goals for the 2007 football season at Saint Vincent.  “We will be successful if we put a representative team on the field.  One that looks coached, plays hard, and gets the backing of the college community.  From the alumni to the faculty, to the staff, to the students, we want to be seen as a positive addition to the college.”

 Colbert and his staff have been working hard for almost two years in preparation for the Bearcats’ return to the football field this September for the first time in 45 years.  With a team comprised of almost 1/3 upperclassmen who practiced in the fall of 2006 and 2/3 newcomers, the Bearcat staff has a large task at hand to prepare for competition in the PAC.


Coach Colbert’s preseason assessment by position:


QUARTERBACK:  As camp progresses, a clear-cut starter has yet to emerge. 


RUNNING BACK:  Junior Lloyd Burns has had a solid camp and has emerged as the team’s top running back. Colbert has also been impressed by the effort of Logan Small, a freshman from Purchase Line HS.


WIDE RECEIVER:  According to Colbert, “Wide receiver is our deepest position.  We feel as though we have enough quality wide receivers to run several personnel packages.”  The corps is led by sophomore Robert James. Colbert also has liked what he has seen so far from sophomore Clarion transfer Jeff Bishop and Jeff Woodring.


TIGHT END:  Jake Gabelt, a sophomore, has emerged as the frontrunner at tight end.


OFFENSIVE LINE:  According to Colbert, the O-Line is still a work in progress, with leadership expected to come from junior Matt Robinson, a team captain.


DEFENSIVE LINE:  Colbert says the D-Line “can be a strong group.  We have some quality young players there and a lot of depth.”  The line is led by Garrett Hazlett, a sophomore in his second camp under Coach Colbert.  Transfer Ryan Reitz, has also looked good, along with freshman Dan Mecca, Josh Radziukinas, Wendell Habig and Nick Burgo.


LINEBACKER:  Kyle Knepshield, a returnee from last year’s camp, leads the Bearcat linebackers. According to Colbert, it is another position where the team enjoys some depth.  Ramsey Lesnett, Justin Blatnik and Jeff Graham are freshman who have made an impact thus far.


SECONDARY:    Freshman Brian Smith has jumped to the top of the depth chart with a solid performance at camp. Three freshmen from Florida, Ozni Rhodes, Quillan Reid and Josh Tucker, have also looked good, as has sophomore Lucas Parker, a transfer from Allegheny College. Senior T.C. Sawick (right) is expected to play safety and is a team captain.


SPECIAL TEAMS:  Junior Chris Gillies will likely handle punting duties, while the kicking position is a battle between senior Matt Houston and freshman Aaron Jones.

Colbert knows that it could be a difficult season, but is approaching it with a positive attitude. “It is a challenge to jump right into a varsity program with a full schedule. We are not going to measure success based upon wins and losses.  We want our players to want to play and have that positive attitude.  The wins and losses will take care of themselves.”



Thiel Tomcats (5-5 Overall, 4-2 PAC in 2006)
The Thiel College football team, under the direction of seventh-year head coach Jack Leipheimer, returns 16 starters and 29 letter winners from last season’s squad that finished 5-5 overall and 4-2 in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC). 

Despite returning a significant portion of contributors from last year the Tomcats will be without a pair of coaches that arrived in Greenville with Leipheimer in 2001.  John Marzka, associate head coach and offensive coordinator from 2001-2006, has taken over the program at Albright College, while Joe Rossi, who spent six seasons (2001-2006) with the Tomcats, four of those as defensive coordinator, will coach the defensive secondary at Division I-AA University of Maine.

“There is no doubt this season will be different from any in the past since we don’t have Joe and John with us.  They are both quality coaches that did an outstanding job with our players and I valued their input tremendously, but life goes on,” said Leipheimer.  “Just as you have to replace key seniors from the previous year and count on guys who have been waiting in the wings, or are new to the program, so it is at times with coaches.”

“I have complete confidence in Kurt Reiser’s abilities as an offensive coordinator, and with the addition of two top notch coaches in Kyle Smesko, who will be working with the offensive line, and JP McFeeley, who will coach the defensive secondary, I am very excited for the season to begin, and starting the next chapter in Tomcat football history,” said Leipheimer.

Reiser will take over as offensive coordinator and associate head coach after serving as the program’s offensive line coach for the past six seasons.

“We will continue to stress many of things that we have in the past - running the ball well, throwing the ball effectively and taking great care of the football. We will be committed to running the football and controlling the line of scrimmage. I have tremendous confidence in our returning players and we will continue to rely on our offensive line and running backs to lead the way for us,” said Reiser.

OFFENSE

 Senior running back Steve Minton (left) returns to the Tomcat backfield as one of the most decorated players in school history.  He is the school’s all-time leader in rushing yards (2,570) and touchdowns (32).  His 198 points and 558 carries also rank him second on those career lists, respectively.  Minton concluded the 2006 season with 537 yards on 135 attempts (4.0 ypc) and six touchdowns.  A 2006 all-PAC second team selection, Minton finished fourth in the conference in rushing. 

Another familiar face in the Tomcat backfield also returns in junior Dan Hess.  Hess finished second on the squad last season with 445 yards on 90 carries (4.9 ypc) and five touchdowns.  A 2006 all-PAC honorable mention pick, Hess finished the year seventh in the PAC in rushing.

“It is no secret that we are counting on Steve and Danny to carry the load for us this fall.  I truly believe we must run the ball in order to be successful and I can’t think of two guys I would rather have than those two.  Obviously, if you can run the ball well that puts more pressure on the defense, and thus opens up all your other weapons on offense,” said Leipheimer.

After great spring workouts that culminated with him completing 12-of-17 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns in the Tomcats’ 36-7 spring game victory over the University of Toronto, sophomore Willie Bova  replaces Billy Blankenship ’07 as the squads top signal-caller. 

“Willie has shown tremendous poise and leadership,” said Leipheimer. “And by his fearless play – he will stand in the pocket and deliver the ball in the face of a heavy rush (unflustered) – he has earned the respect of his teammates on both sides of the ball. He has a solid handle on the offense and is making good decisions.”

Senior wide receiver Marc LaScola was named to Don Hansen's Football Gazette NCAA Division III South all-Region team as an honorable mention pick after catching 43 passes for 421 yards and seven touchdowns last season. A 2006 all-PAC first team selection, LaScola finished third in the conference in receptions per game (5.38) and fifth in receiving yards per game (52.6).  He is currently tied for fifth place among Tomcat receivers with 11 career touchdown receptions. 

“Unfortunately, Marc had a slow start in 2006 due to an injury suffered in pre-season camp.  If we can keep him healthy I look for him to have his most productive season ever,” said Leipheimer.

Senior Brett Helman and junior Tim Van Horn also return as solid contributors at the wide receiver positions over the past few seasons.  Helman, named an all-PAC honorable mention pick last season, started nine games last season and caught 30 passes for 310 yards, while Van Horn saw action in eight games and finished with 33 catches for 367 yards and a touchdown. 

Senior guard Jacob Siegel and senior center Jimmy Fawcett are also back in the fold, but three other all-conference offensive linemen graduated, leaving question marks in that area.  Fawcett, an all-PAC second team pick a year ago, has started 22 games during his career.

“There is no doubt we are going to be young on the offensive line.  However, the experience we gained by playing in Toronto in May has been invaluable in our development.  I am confident Ryan Jordan, Nick Goettman, JR Kenna, and Peter Antonelli will step up and do a solid job for us.  I also expect Kris Duffy and Steve Speicher to contribute as they continue to learn the system,” said Leipheimer.  “As for freshmen, we have some quality players coming in on the o-line, but it will all depend on how quickly they learn our system before they’ll be able to contribute like we expect.”

DEFENSE
The defensive unit returns a pair of defensive ends in seniors Chris Lorber and Robert Hughes that helped anchor the second-ranked defense in the PAC last season.  Thiel finished second in total defense (255.8 ypg), second in scoring defense (16.1 ppg), second in pass defense (153.6 ypg), second in rush defense (102.6 ypg) and tied for third in team sacks (21.0).  The Tomcats were also first in opponent third-down conversion percentage (30.6%) and third in red zone defense (19-26, 73.1%).   

Lorber, who was named to the Football Gazette all-South region squad as an honorable mention and to the all-PAC first team in 2006, finished the season with 48 total tackles, 9.0 sacks and two forced fumbles.  Hughes, an all-PAC second team performer in 2006, posted 56 tackles, 10.0 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks and three forced fumbles.

“Chris Lorber and Robert Hughes have great motors and are relentless in their pursuit of the football.  I expect them to set the example for the younger players with Chris being a captain and Robert being a fifth-year guy.  In addition, we have two other seniors who will see plenty of action in Aaron Gorka and Mike Dworakowski,” said Leipheimer. 

Senior defensive tackles Denver Goodman, Randall Palakovich and David Dix look to man the interior of the Tomcat defense.  Goodman appeared in all 10 games last season and recorded six tackles while Palakovich and Dix posted five and two tackles, respectively. 

“Each of our interior players brings something a little different to the defense.  Goodman is the strongest player on the team, Dix has great size, Palakovich has outstanding athleticism (being a converted linebacker/end) and Matt Turek has tremendous quickness.  All four have great “get off” and a solid understanding of our defensive schemes.  We are going to need solid play from them in order to be successful,” said Leipheimer.

Senior Mike Stimac and junior Sam Swartzfager return to man the linebacking corps.  Stimac, who has started 14 games over his first three seasons, finished third on the squad with 62 tackles, including 4.5 tackles for loss, last season.  Swartzfager appeared in seven games last season and totaled three tackles and an interception.

“Mike Stimac is a tremendous leader as he was voted captain by his teammates and has such a great command of our overall defense.  It’s like having another coach on the field.  I have complete confidence in his ability to make any adjustments needed on any given play.  In addition to Stimac and Swartzfager, Logan Skjefte, Scott Thompson, Rick Hlinka, Steve Waldo, Mike Clemens and Clint Walker all had solid springs and will make contributions to our defense.  I feel we have the most depth at linebacker over any other position on the team – each of these guys can play,” said Leipheimer.

Senior free safety Mike Lebetz, senior cornerback Antonio Quarterman and senior strong safety Corey Russell each played an important role in the secondary for the Tomcats last season.  In 10 starts Lebetz tallied 39 total tackles with one interception, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery while Quarterman posted 31 tackles, 1.0 tackle for loss and one interception after starting nine games.  Russell finished the season with 13 tackles and 2.0 tackles for loss in eight starts. 

A number of talented returning players should not only help provide the Tomcats with much-needed depth, but also push the incumbents for playing time.  Senior cornerback Tom Butera, junior safety Matt Joy and sophomore cornerbacks Dominique Henderson and Marcus Myers have each worked hard in the spring and throughout the summer in hopes of securing a spot in Coach McFeeley’s defensive backfield.

“I feel the secondary made the most improvements overall this past spring.  Our guys have a very solid grasp of our coverages and understand their role in the overall defensive scheme, with regards to run fits.  I look for this unit to have a solid 2007 campaign,” said Leipheimer.

SPECIAL TEAMS
Senior kicker/punter Sammy Koyl was the Tomcats’ top place kicker and punter in 2006 and earned all-PAC honorable mention honors for both positions.  Koyl finished third in the PAC in punting last season, averaging 35.2 yards per punt.  He is Thiel’s all-time leader in extra points with 73 and is second all-time in points (kicking) with 97. 

“We are depending on Sammy Koyl to have his best year yet - he had a very good spring and has worked extremely hard this off-season,” said Leipheimer.  “His leg strength has improved and I am confident he will be up for the challenge.  In addition, Alec Osbourne has shown steady improvement throughout the past four years and is ready to step in when needed.”


Thomas More Saints (6-4 Overall, 2-4 PAC in 2006)
 

Change could be the key word, and how they adapt will play a huge part of the successes for the 2007 version of the Thomas More Saints as they enter their third season as members of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference (PAC).


The biggest change comes at the top as Jim Hilvert will assume the reigns of the Thomas More program. Hilvert comes to TMC after serving as the defensive coordinator at the Saints’ arch rival (Mount St. Joseph) across the Ohio River. Then, the Saints will be looking to replace five defensive starters, two of which were All-Americans.

“We will play a physical, exciting brand of football,” said Hilvert. “We will be aggressive on both sides of the football.”


However, spring football helped the veterans ease into the transition, and hopefully will allow for an easier fall.

 
“It helps the players learn our lingo,” Hilvert said of spring practice. “I had an idea of our personnel, but it got some things clarified. But, you never judge football players in t-shirts and shorts.”

 
OFFENSE

Most of the game experience for the Saints can be found on the offensive side of the ball as they return nine players with starting experience, including junior quarterback Trevor Stellman (right).


“We have to make sure we get the ball in the hands of our playmakers in space,” said Hilvert. “But you have to run the ball to win games.”

Quarterback

For the second straight season, Stellman returns as the lone returning player at the position. But unlike last season, he enters with a full season of experience as the starter and undisputable leader of the offense.


“Trevor is a captain of this football team,” said Hilvert. “He has a certain moxy about him and he is smart in terms of football. The team looks to him to come up with the big plays.”


He showed his ability to make game-changing plays as he guided the Saints to back-to-back comeback victories to start the season.


Stellman, who started nine games for Thomas More, completed 56 percent of his passes. He was 99-of-174 for 1,302 yards with 12 touchdowns and six interceptions. In the win against Huntingdon, Stellman came one yard shy of tying the single game record for passing yards with 384. However, he had four games where he failed to reach 100 yards passing – three of which resulted in TMC losses.

 

“He has a presence in the pocket and on the football field,” said Hilvert. “He definitely needs to become more consistent, but with a full season and another spring he will be more consistent. The sky is the limit for Trevor.”

 

Running Back

One of the many playmakers Stellman will have at his deposal is sophomore running back Cordario Collier. Much like Stellman at the quarterback position, Collier is the lone returner at his position.


After getting his opportunity to play, Collier rushed for 454 yards and five touchdowns in four games. Though in limited action, Collier still earned honorable mention honors by the conference. His breakout game came in the Saints’ win over Westminster, when he rushed for 143 yards on 14 carries and three touchdowns.

“Monty (Collier) expects to be great,” said Hilvert. “He is a relentless worker and is never satisfied.”


Junior Antwan Thornton looks to be ready to step into the fullback role after playing junior varsity for the last two seasons.


Depth in the backfield will be found by a host of freshmen and a couple transfers.

 

Receivers

With more than 60 percent of the team’s receiver production graduated, Thomas More will look to senior John Resch to have a breakout season. For the second straight season, he is the top returning receiver, but he is coming off a season in which he was third on the team in receptions.

As a sophomore, he hauled in 24 passes for 354 yards, but that production slid as a junior. Last season he had just 17 receptions for 210 yards.


Senior Kyle James ill be exclusively a receiver for his final season. The versatile James played quarterback, running back and receiver last season, in addition to his duties as a kick returner. In fact, he was the starting quarterback for Thomas More’s upset of rival Mount St. Joseph last season.


James rushed for 169 yards on 52 carries, with 23 receiving yards and 129 passing yards.


Junior Nick Dew made strides last season, and finished the season with 11 catches for 167 yards and one touchdown. One of the pleasant surprises following spring practice was junior Cory Liles, who earned most improved player of the camp.

Senior Dennis Gullick could use a consistent camp to earn some playing time.

“All of the receivers have good hands and run good routes,” said Hilvert.

 

Tight Ends

For the last couple of seasons, the tight end position has been primarily an extra offensive lineman in the running game. Last season the trio at the position amassed five catches for 67 yards and one touchdown.


“We definitely want to utilize our tight ends,” said Hilvert.


Senior Andrew Carpenter, who for the first time in his Thomas More career is playing the same position in back-to-back seasons, and junior Nick Heinl will have the early edge entering the fall practices.


At 6-4, 250, converted quarterback Ryan Stewart will push for time at the tight end position.

Offensive Line

Offensive line has the most experience of any position group on the Thomas More team, sporting five players that have started at least five collegiate games.


The group will be led by all-conference performers junior Clayton Garrigus and senior Brandon Lee. Lee will be a four-year starter, while Garrigus made a successful return in 2006. After missing all of 2005 with an injury, the 300-lb guard earned first team PAC last season.

The duo will anchor the line with another three-year starter in senior Keith Cureton.

“We will be very good up front,” said Hilvert. “They are experiences and have been in the battles before.”

Junior Brandon Shouse made a leap into the starting lineup down the stretch and should have a better season with the experience. Senior Steve Evans has started several games in his Thomas More career and will provide depth at both guard positions.

DEFENSE

The back seven for the Saints will look incredibly different when the Saints lineup in 2007. Gone are All-Americans Mark Carlisle and Chris Willis, along with both safeties. In addition, senior Rashawn West will be playing a new position.

 

Defensive Line

Most of the game experience in concentrated up front for the Thomas More defense as they return four starters, including all-conference performers in juniors Greg Frey and Bo Allen.


The tackle duo will help provide stability to a young defense that will feature at least four new starters. Allen led all linemen with 44 tackles, 10 for loss with three sacks, while Frey added 30 tackles, five for loss and one interception.


“We are very happy to have all-PAC performers helping inexperience at linebacker,” said Hilvert.


Juniors Ryan Lindeman, Tim Mosely and Kyle Duncan, along with sophomore Andrew Damico all started games for Thomas More at the defensive end position.


Mosely was the most productive of the quartet with 18 tackles and three sacks, while Lindeman added 14 tackles and one sack.


Sophomore Jeff Helmer, who missed all of last season with an injury, is expected to make an impact coming off the edge. Senior Matt Short, junior Tyler Grant and junior Kasey McClanahan will provide some experienced depth.


Linebacker               

It’s Brad Steinmetz and …. well, only time will tell. Steinmetz isn’t a bad starting point for a position that last season featured three all-PAC honorees. The All-American led the Presidents’ Athletic Conference with 15 tackles for loss, and was second on the team with 75 tackles and a team-high eight sacks.


“Brad is the guy (at linebacker),” said Hilvert. “He is a very good football player and has a great understanding for the game of football. He is so critical that he provides leadership, especially in the early games.”


The options to fill the other two linebacker spots have little experience in collegiate games. Only junior Jerry Scarlato has appeared in a varsity game at the linebacker position. Junior Eric Northrup, a converted quarterback, will be playing this third position in three seasons.


Juniors Dan Tillett, Lloyd Sexton and Jordan Logan, along with sophomores Brandon Kohrs and Kyle Finn will all be given opportunities to secure playing time.


Defensive Back

With the graduation of four key players, the defensive backfield absorbed the greatest loss of any position group. However, the return of four-year starter cornerback Terence Toone and the conversion to safety of four-year starter Rashawn West gives the Saints proven talent in the secondary.


West, a two-time All-PAC performer, moves from the weakside linebacker position, and is the fastest member of the Thomas More football team. Although he moved to safety, he plans on spending plenty of time in the box supporting the run. Last season, he was fourth on the team with 50 tackles, 2.5 for loss and one interception – which was returned for a 65-yard touchdown.


Toone earned second team All-PAC honors two seasons had just 15 tackles and two interceptions a season ago.


Senior Nate Kapsal has played corner and safety for the Saints, and his versatility will help him find some playing time.


Seniors Les Colegrove, George Evans and David Dransman along with sophomore Josh Schmitz will all compete for vacant positions.


SPECIAL TEAMS

The kicking game looks to improve on its consistency this year behind junior kicker David Sheeley. Sheeley was 16-for-24 on PATs, and 3-for-4 on field goals last season, with a long of 29. Look for a group of freshman to come in and compete for kicking duties, as well as fill the vacant punting position.

In the return game, James and West have both shown the ability to score whenever they touch the ball. James holds the school record for most return yards in a game and longest return. West led the duo overall last year, averaging 20.8 yards per kickoff return.


Washington & Jefferson Presidents (10-2 Overall, 6-0 PAC in 2006)

Despite a 30-27 loss in the second round of the 2006 NCAA Division III playoffs, Washington & Jefferson Head Coach Mike Sirianni walked off the field in Belton, Texas, with a small sense of accomplishment.   

The two previous W&J squads (1999, 2002) that traveled to Texas for NCAA playoff games were outscored by a combined total of 96-13.  However, the 2006 Presidents showed that the gap is closing despite the loss to fifth-ranked Mary-Hardin Baylor. 


 “I wasn’t quite sure what to expect going into that game due to our lack of success in Texas recently,” said Sirianni.  “But we came in with a lot of confidence and we played hard.  Those guys showed me that we can play with the top teams in the nation.  I was very pleased even though we lost.” 


Under Sirianni, Washington & Jefferson football had been known for its fast-paced, aerial attack which set more than 75 school offense records since 1999.  Last year, following a 32-14 season-opening setback to Salisbury, Sirianni and his staff focused on a run-oriented, ball-control attack and the Presidents responded with 10 consecutive victories which included the school’s 21st Presidents’ Athletic Conference championship.         


Washington & Jefferson finished the 2006 season first in the nation in fewest turnovers (10) and second in turnover margin (+1.8 per game).  Junior quarterback Bobby Swallow also ended his first year as the starter with the nation’s third-best passing efficiency total (168.1).


“We will have the same approach as last year,” added Sirianni.  “We will take care of the football and we want to force turnovers.  I think we have more talented athletes than in past years and we hope to utilize that speed and agility on both sides of the ball.” 

 Sirianni credits Swallow for playing a big role in the team’s turnaround.  Swallow completed 69 percent (159-229) of his passes for 2,022 yards and 20 touchdowns.  He also rushed for three scores and was intercepted only twice in the final nine regular-season contests. 

“Bobby doesn’t force anything and he has the ability to take off running when his targets aren’t open,” noted Sirianni.  “He is a true student of the game and I feel confident he will only get better over the next two years.”

 Sirianni will spend a lot of time during preseason camp searching for a running back to replace the 294 times All-American Ryan Mendel carried the ball a year ago.  Mendel gained 1,421 yards and scored 20 touchdowns; however, the head coach feels that five players will compete for a majority of the team’s rushing attempts.

Junior Kevin Mathews returns as a starter for the second consecutive season.  Last year, Mathews rushed for 388 yards and one touchdown, while also catching 24 passes for 262 yards and four scores.  Junior Curt Jones scored a pair of touchdowns and will see increased carries in 2007.  Junior Josh Linton also proved to be a reliable running back with 229 yards and one touchdown.  Sophomores Terrence McAlister and Jacob McBride will also vie for carries in the preseason.

“Kevin has a ton of talent and is someone who we are counting on to run and catch the football,” said Sirianni.  “He needs to continue to work on holding onto the football.  Curt had a great year in football and was an ECAC champion in track & field.  Brandon also proved to be a solid blocker as a fullback and we would like to get him more touches. Josh ran the ball well late in games last year and will also be in the mix.” 

The offensive line also must replace a pair of All-Americans, Chris Hickey and Chris Teter, but Sirianni is still optimistic about the experienced players returning.  Junior center Dave Bucar and junior guard/tackle Matt Houy cracked the starting lineup last season and were both Honorable Mention All-PAC performers.  Seniors Eric Sibenac, Adam Hoffer, Jason Pierce and Adam Shallcross bring valuable game experience and will compete for the other three starting positions.

“It is tough losing an All-American duo like Hickey and Teter, but Bucar and Houy are developing into All-America type players,” added Sirianni.  “We have recruited out best players on the offensive line the past five years.  All of these players have key experience and could become one of our best groups.”

Seniors Steve Mort and Brian Skokowski and sophomores Bryan Considder, Pat Denecke, Kirk Fulton and Mike Ashbaugh will also be in the mix to compete for a starting job in preseason camp.

Senior Tom McCafferty (left) and junior David Ravida return as the team’s top wide receivers from a year ago.  McCafferty brings the most experience to the receiving corps with 61 catches for 999 yards and 11 touchdowns over the past two seasons.  Ravida hauled in 36 passes for 461 yards and six scores.  Junior Luke Espe and sophomore Craig Besong will also be asked to make an impact in the lineup early in the year.  Junior Ryan Church has switched position and takes his agility and quickness to a position in which he could provide an immediate spark.

“This is an area where we need to show some improvement,” noted Sirianni.  “We need our wide receivers to show more consistency and I expect that they will as the season progresses.”

The Presidents’ defense lost seven starters from last year’s unit which ranked 30th in Division III in scoring defense (14.3 ppg).  The secondary will replace three starters, including All-American safety Nick Cherish. Senior cornerback Ryan Mullen will anchor the defensive backfield after recording 55 tackles and four interceptions last year.  Seniors James Weatherspoon and Todd Keenan and junior Chris Kessler are the early candidates to fill the open slots.  Sophomores Mike Sedunov and Mitch Erdely will also have the opportunity to crack the starting after serving important roles on the special teams units last season.

 “Ryan had a terrific season last year and probably deserved some more recognition,” said Sirianni.  “James, Todd and Chris have all waited their turn and are ready for the chance to shine.  They have experience as reserves and I am confident that they will be ready for Geneva on Sept. 8th.  Mike and Mitch are also talented players who will help us in this area.”

Junior linebacker David Gitlitz is the team’s returning tackle leader after amassing 91 stops, including 5.5 for a loss.  He will move back to his natural position of middle linebacker and will help the development of junior John Fahey and sophomores Thad Sollick and P.J. Hoskin, who will be in competition for the open two starting positions.

“David is probably our best overall football player,” added Sirianni.  “He has the experience and is a natural athlete.  He moves very well and has great size for the linebacker position.  I expect him to have a great season.  John played a lot on special teams over the past two years and has been itching to see more time on defense.  Thad and P.J. played great on our junior varsity team last year and will add athleticism on the outside.”

Sirianni is equally excited about the Presidents’ defensive line as he expects at least 13 players to see a lot of action in 2007.  Leading that group are seniors Russ Chase, Julian Muganda and Jeff Ernst who have all started at various times over the past two seasons.  Juniors Mitch Tenney, Brandon Bovina, Bradley Begonia and Thomas Gaul and sophomores Jacob Bloomhuff and Ricky Morris will also see a number of snaps.

“Russ played well last season and is coming off a tough injury, while Julian and Jeff have shown the ability to get to the quarterback,” said Sirianni.  “I am excited about our depth in this position.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see all of these players have great years.”

Sirianni will be without Kyle Sidebotham as his place-kicker for the first time in his head coaching career.  Sidebotham, the school’s all-time leader in field goals and kicker scoring, will be replaced by sophomore Chuck Grabner.  Junior Zack Zebrasky will handle the punting duties for the third-straight season.

 “Chuck is ready for the opportunity to become our place-kicker and Zack has improved each year,” noted Sirianni.  “We are going to be much more athletic in our kick coverage as well.”

Sirianni expects the squad’s depth will play a big role in its success.  With only 14 seniors, the 2007 Presidents are predominantly a junior and sophomore dominated team.

“We have 31 juniors and 48 sophomores and many of these guys will see a lot of playing time,” concluded Sirianni.  “However, our seniors will set the tone for the year starting in August.  Many of these seniors have been waiting for an opportunity and I expect them to set the example for our younger players.” 



Waynesburg Yellow Jackets (6-4 Overall, 5-1 PAC in 2006)
When the Waynesburg football team started last season with three-straight losses many were ruling out the Yellow Jackets as contenders in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference.


However, the Yellow Jackets rallied to win their next five games and six of their last seven to fall one win shy of claiming their second conference title in four years.
 

Waynesburg looks to be in position for a fast start in 2007 with 14 returning starters, including nine on defense. The key concern entering camp and the early part of the season will be the development of new starters at quarterback and running back.


Still, the number of returning players with quality experience is substantial, which should have the Yellow Jackets poised to make a run at the first-ever PAC automatic qualifier for the NCAA Championship.


The Offense
Five starters return on offense, including three of the five offensive linemen who started the last six games of the 2006 campaign. It was a line that struggled with consistency early in the season, but turned into a major strength during the late-season surge.


The veteran front, a dangerous group of young receivers and a devastating all-conference fullback are blocks on which the offense can build on during the early portion of the season.

The main focus will be identifying starters at quarterback and running back. The graduation of explosive running backs Ryan Abels and Eric Daniels, along with quarterback Tres Cobb, leaves a void at key skill positions. Coaches are confident in the abilities of the returners and newcomers, but won’t have the luxury of experience at those positions as the season begins.
 

Quarterbacks

The Yellow Jackets will feature a new signal caller in 2007 with the graduation of two-year starter Tres Cobb. Cobb set personal bests last season in completion percentage and touchdowns and finished his career ranked eighth in all-time passing yards.


The three returning quarterbacks who hope to win the job in 2007 include: junior Chris Smithley, junior Andy Lauterbach and sophomore Kyle McBride.

 Smithley saw action in five games last season, including one start, and completed 15-of-37 attempts for 181 yards with five interceptions. He knows the system well and had more reps with the first unit last fall than any of the other returning quarterbacks.


 Lauterbach was a transfer from Seton Hill last season and might be the most athletic of the three returning quarterbacks. He saw action in one game as a reserve last season, throwing an interception on his lone pass attempt.

McBride spent last season learning the system and working the junior varsity team.

 

Running Backs

Perhaps even more difficult for Waynesburg than fielding a new quarterback will be finding a running back to emerge to replace Ryan Abels and Eric Daniels. In their time as Yellow Jackets, the tandem accounted for 6,504 rushing yards and 76 touchdowns.


Injuries and inexperience might leave the tailback position open to a newcomer.

Senior Jamelle Price made the transition from defensive back to running back last season and is coming off a good spring practice. However, despite being technically sound, Price has yet to see varsity action in the backfield.

The running back situation is similar to 2003 when Abels and Daniels both joined a program in search of a starter at running back.

At fullback, Waynesburg returns all-conference bruiser Aaron Davis. Davis had an outstanding year blocking and catching the ball out of the backfield. He led all running backs last season with 14 receptions and 103 receiving yards. There figures to be situations this season in which Davis will serve as a tailback after he averaged nearly five yards/carry last season.

Receivers
Whoever wins the quarterback battle will certainly feature an athletic, speedy corps of receivers as targets.


Sophomore Josh Fisher returns as the big target at 6-1, 185 pounds. Fisher showed tremendous hands last season and led the team with a 14.3 yards/reception average.Tom Hudson appears to line opposite of Fisher and brings a vertical threat to the passing game despite just 10 catches as a freshman last season. Senior Luke Hill brings experience and good route running to the young group and is coming off a good spring practice.

The addition of transfer Scott Cree to the receiving corps brings an impact player to the position, as Cree is one of the fastest and most versatile players on the team. Sophomores Tyler Halfhill and Ryan McWreath, along with senior Ryan Cronin, are likely to see plenty of action at the tight end position in 2007.


Halfhill and McWreath bring size at 6-1 and 6-3, respectively, to the position and the ability to use multiple tight end sets, which haven’t been part of the Waynesburg offensive attack in recent years.

Cronin will be used more as the receiving tight end and is coming off a great spring practice. The receivers and tight ends will be needed early in the season to take the pressure off the new starter at quarterback and running back.

Offensive Line

The indisputable truth is the offensive line will play a huge part in the development of the new starters in the backfield. Five players that started games last year, including three regulars, are back on the line for 2007. In addition to the returning starters, five others return after seeing game action last season. The unit is deep not only in experience, but also in numbers, as there were almost 20 offensive linemen on the roster during spring practice.

At right guard, Waynesburg welcomes back Alex Tempalski, a two-year starter at guard with 22 starts in his career.  Sophomores Adam Pastrnak and Donnie Zalaznik will challenge during camp for the other guard position. Pastrnak missed all of last season with an illness after making eight starts in 2005, including three at left guard. Zalaznik appeared in four games last season including a start at right tackle.


At the tackles, the Yellow Jackets return Max Anderson, Jared Bussard and Nick Miller, who combined for 18 starts last season. Anderson started three games on the left side before suffering an injury which made Miller make a mid-season transition from tight end. Miller started the final six games of the season at left tackle, while Bussard made eight starts on the right side.

Senior Dan Vitale and junior Ryan Shumway will be competing for the starting position at center. Shumway played in all 10 games last season, including two starts at center, while Vitale saw action in five games last year after starting eight games at center in 2005.

With the amount of seasoned depth and talent on the offensive line, the unit will be the leader of the offense and may again be one of the nation’s best. Last year, the offensive ranked third in the country in fewest sacks allowed.

The Defense

The leadership and attitude are back on the Yellow Jacket defense with nine of 11 starters returning. Waynesburg features all-conference caliber players at each level of the defense, as the defensive line returns completely intact and the linebackers and secondary feature several playmakers.

There are plenty of options in regards to formations and coverages for the coaching staff to choose from with the type of athletic ability and experience found throughout the defense.

Defensive Line

All three starters return from a defensive front that accounted for 19 of a conference-high 25 sacks. Defensive end Mike Czerwien (right) returns after a stellar All-American junior season. Czerwien posted a career high in tackles, while leading the conference with 11 sacks and 18.5 TFL.

Opposite Czerwien on the end is D.J. DeWitt, a two-year starter, who came on strong at the end of last season. LaDrekus Burford returns to the middle for the third-straight year. Burford made four sacks in conference play last season and helps clear space for the playmaking middle linebackers.

Linebackers

The team’s top tackler from a year ago, Brendon Steele, returns to one of the middle positions in the Yellow Jackets’ 3-4 defense. In his first season as a starter last season, Steele earned all-conference honors despite his 5-8 size. What he lacks in height, Steele makes up in desire, as he is one of the hardest hitters on the team.

Waynesburg also returns its other starter in the middle, Dan Andreassi. He ranked third on the team in tackles last season. Andreassi and Steele form a tough leadership style for the defense with the duo combining for 145 tackles last season. Dave Piecuch and Jeremy Franks figure to split time at the rush outside linebacker position in 2007. Piecuch made the majority of the starts last season, posting career numbers in tackles.

The lone loss among the starters was on the outside in Aaron Wood, who had 7.5 TFL and two forced fumbles last season. The candidates to replace him also provide depth at the other linebacker positions.

Matt Offutt made the transition to linebacker from wide receiver in the spring after seeing action in seven games last season on special teams. Sophomores Bill Cress and Jerred Ryan will also be in the mix for time on the outside.

Defensive Backs

The secondary looked to be cause for concern in the early part of last season after three starters suffered season-ending injuries during camp and the first week of the season. However, after a change in position from Anthony Taylor from wide receiver to cornerback to safety, the defensive backs developed into a big-play group by the end of the season.

With the graduation of Taylor, the leadership and playmaking roles now shift to Stefon Strothers. Playing a physical type of safety, Strothers led the secondary in tackles last season and should see more of a roving style of play in 2007.

The starting corners for most of the season, Troy Hill, Jr. and Jacques Newberry, both return as well. Hill features tremendous speed and played well last season as a freshman starter.

Newberry showcased great confidence at the position and looks to build off last season’s finale when he intercepted two passes at Westminster.


Dylan August and Ryan Krull will battle for the other starting safety position in the secondary. August gained a wealth of experience last season, playing in nickel and dime packages and appears to be ready to slide into a starting role. Krull entered last season as a starter, but suffered a season-ending knee injury during training camp. The secondary will also benefit from the return of senior Will Nichols, who suffered a season-ending knee injury during training camp.

Special Teams

Waynesburg has several key positions to fill on its special teams unit. With the graduation of the all-time field goal leader Ben Popson and dynamic returner Eric Daniels, the Yellow Jackets will look to several newcomers to contribute on special teams.

Kicker

The kicking job for the 2007 season will belong to a player that has never kicked in a Waynesburg game. Popson has been the lone kicker for field goals in each of the last four years, so the Yellow Jackets will look to a freshman to fill the position of kickoff and field goal duties.

Punter

Nate Feniello won the punting job in the midst of his freshman season after entering camp as a quarterback. In 22 attempts last season, his average punt went a team-best 33.4 yards and four were inside the 20-yard line.

Returners

Competition will be strong at both the kickoff and punt return positions, but there are several players, including newcomers, who feature the speed and cutting ability needed for the position. Versatile transfer Scott Cree looks to challenge sophomores Troy Hill, Jr. and Tom Hudson as viable options in the return game.

 



Westminster Titans (2-8 Overall, 1-5 PAC in 2006)

If the small glimmers of greatness shown by young teams are a harbinger of things to come, then brighter days are certainly ahead for the Westminster College football team as it enters the 2007 season.

Take the 2006 season, for example. The Titans broke in players at key positions as freshmen and sophomores -- none of which were returning starters in 2006 -- made a combined 131 starts. Many of their eureka-type moments during the season, however, often did not equate to wins. Westminster posted a 2-8 record and finished last in the Presidents' Athletic Conference with a 1-5 mark.

Now, with many of the younger players more developed with having a season under their belts, Westminster is ready to take the next step in restoring its winning tradition.

"Our hopes are that the experiences gained from the 2006 season by our group of young talented players will help them mature and improve the program," said third-year head coach Jeff Hand.


The Titans return 18 starters in 2007, including nine on offense, seven on defense and two specialists, while only four players on the team have multiple years of starting experience and three with three years as lettermen.

 Westminster will also embark on the 2007 season with two new provisional conference members as it rekindles its local rivalry with Geneva, a former fellow NAIA foe until the late 1990s, and with the upstart Saint Vincent program added to the schedule.

"The 2007 schedule will challenge our young team from the opening game through the enhanced conference schedule," Hand added.

Offense

The two players that handled the ball most in 2006 were of the least experienced. That did not deter current sophomore quarterback Kevin Franz (left) and sophomore tailback Nick McKolosky from having outstanding rookie seasons. Franz and McKolosky were the first Westminster freshmen to start season-openers at their positions since 1967 and 1995, respectively.

Franz wound up becoming just the fourth Titan quarterback to throw for over 2,000 yards in a season while setting the school record with 20.8 completions per game in 2006. In nine starts and 10 games played, Franz completed 208 of 315 passes for 12 touchdowns and 2,090 yards to go with 198 rushing yards on 71 attempts with five touchdowns as he led the PAC in passing (209) and total offense (228.8) per game.

McKolosky led the team in rushing with 318 yards on 88 carries and two touchdowns, while also catching 36 passes for 266 yards and two scores.

Senior quarterback Brett Myers (two career starts and over 120 pass attempts) is a very capable back-up, as is sophomore tailback Jason Nagy, who rushed 44 times for 127 yards and one touchdown during his freshman year in 2006.

Also making up the backfield will be senior fullback Josh Kutzner, who is one of only three three-year lettermen on the Titan roster in 2007. Kutzner, voted the team's Special Teams MVP in 2006, was the team's fourth-leading rusher (72 yards) with most of those yards coming during the win over Bethany when he rushed for a career-high 61 yards including a touchdown.

The team's most potent offensive threat is senior wide receiver Brett Ziegler. Voted the team's MVP last year, Ziegler was one of three players selected to the all-conference team and is also one of only four multiple-year starters returning for 2007. Ziegler, who led the team with 55 catches for 580 yards and five touchdowns last year, enters the season ranked ninth on the school's career receptions list with 90, needing 51 to break the record.

Joining Ziegler on the perimeter will be classmate Jason Discello (28 receptions for 310 yards in 2006), junior returning starter Jordan Belosh (22 for 279) and sophomores Jon Gubish (3 for 30) and Chad Rosatelli (14 for 183), all of which are returning lettermen.

Rosatelli, who caught the longest pass in school history on an 80-yard touchdown reception from Myers against Bethany last year, is a bit of a wildcard for the Titans as he will also see time as a tailback.

When Westminster uses a tight end, sophomore Gary Hutsler will likely see action. Hutsler caught only four passes last year, but two went for touchdowns.

All five offensive linemen return for the Titans, led by senior two-year starters Bryan Borkovich at left guard and Shane Parker at right tackle. Parker, along with senior left tackle Randy Sylvester, were the only two linemen to start every game in 2006 at their positions. Junior center Joe Gizoni started the season at right guard and moved to center for the final nine games. He was eventually replaced by junior Jack Seifert, who returns to his spot at right guard after converting from tight end. Sophomore Carl Brueck, who lettered last year, will provide depth

 Defense

Seven starters return for the Titan defense including its most productive player, junior inside linebacker and team defensive MVP Jordan Blinn. Blinn ranked second in the PAC last year with 10.8 tackles per game. The linebacking corps will also consist of junior Scott Brucker, who started the final four games of the 2006 season, along with sophomore Brad Meehan and junior Jake Martinez, both of whom were impact players despite not starting last season.

The defensive line will feature two players with starting experience. Junior Andrew Robison started every game last year and ranked fifth on the team with 45 tackles. The team's fourth-leading tackler, junior Matt Jaworski, is also back after making 46 stops in 2006. Junior Neil Falco, an opening-day starter last year, will sit out the entire 2007 season because of injury.

The secondary is intact with three of the four defensive backs returning from last season. Among them are junior safety Jake Wilczynski, who led the team with three interceptions and ranked third with 64 tackles. Also back are senior cornerback Eric Brown (5 pass break-ups in 2006) and sophomore safety Tyler Kelley (41 tackles). Sophomore Jim Petrolla, who started two games, will also see more playing time, as well as junior Tyler Stiffey.

 Special Teams

Senior punter Dusty Rhodes is the team's only three-year starter entering the season. Rhodes was a second-team all-PAC punter last year as he averaged 35.9 yards per kick.

Sophomore kicker Fred Romeo will handle kickoffs and placekicking for the Titans. Romeo averaged 47.5 yards per kickoff and made 3 for 5 field goals and 20 of 23 PAT kicks. Two of his three field goals came in the dramatic 27-24 double overtime win over Adrian, including his career long of 26 yards.

The punt and kick returners will be determined during training camp. No current Titan has game experience returning punts, while McKolosky returned 18 kicks for 292 yards last year.


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