Chaparral Capsule Preview

Coach: Fernando Carmona, fifth year (11-30)

2007 record: 3-8 (2-4 Northeast)

Returning starters: Five offense, four defense

Top players: OG Jeff Morgan (Sr.); CB Greg Tucker (Jr.); RB Pierre Jones (Sr.); WR Jermal Turner (Sr.); LB Jordan White (Sr.); C Matt Vaught (Sr.); OT Wade Edwards (Sr.)

Outlook: Gone is two-way all-stater Quentin McCloud, who rushed for 1,420 yards and 16 TDs and had 225 total tackles from his linebacker position.

Counting McCloud, Chaparral lost 18 seniors to graduation. Jones and Palo Verde transfer Isaiah Washington will try to replace McCloud’s production at running back.

Junior Bre Onte Griffin takes over at quarterback and has Carmona excited about his arm strength and athletic ability.

The 6-foot-3-inch, 290-pound Morgan is back for his fourth year on the varsity and will anchor the line.

Speed will be the key on defense as the Cowboys rely on several members of the Sunrise Region championship track team.