Del Sol Capsule Preview
Coach: Preston Goroff, fifth year (26-19)
2007 record: 10-2 (5-1 Southeast)
Returning starters: Six offense, six defense
Top players: OT/DE Alex Klorman (Sr.); FB/LB Jon Kirschbaum (Sr.); TE/DE Tim Lawson (Sr.); LB/RB Derek Eamon (Sr.); QB Saei Huihui (Sr.); OL/DL Logan Nester (Sr.); CB/RB Jordan Molina (Sr.); FS Orlando Kelker (Sr.); CB/RB Kenny Lawrence (Sr.)
Outlook: Though the Dragons lost three all-state linemen from last year’s squad, hopes remain high for this season.
Klorman (6-3, 265) and Nester (6-1, 280) give the team plenty of size and experience on the line, and Goroff will look to a stable of running backs to provide offense.
Kirschbaum (661 rushing yards, six TDs) is back at fullback, and Molina (505 yards, six TDs) and Ernest Hall (588 yards, seven TDs) each had strong performances in the second half of last season. Goroff said Coronado transfers Derek Eamon, the leading rusher for the Cougars, and Kenny Lawrence also will see time at running back.
Goroff said he hopes Huihui, who played some tight end a year ago, will make the team a better passing threat. All-state tight end Lawson (31 catches, 579 yards, five TDs) figures to be one of his top targets.