Centennial Bulldogs Preview

Team Summary: After a disappointing 3-7 season in ’09, the Bulldogs are looking ahead under the leadership of new head coach Leon Evans, formerly of El Dorado High School. Coach Evans says he’s looking to change the culture at Centennial. He hopes to make the playoffs in a tough division by pounding the ball out of a 3 back T-formation and swarming opposing offenses with a 4-4 defensive package. Coach Evans also noted that there would be an emphasis on solid special teams play, and then commented on his excitement about the level of commitment from his players. While running backs are the strength of the team, with Willie White, Jacobi Owens, and Taj Cole, the running game couldn’t work without players like returning OT/DT Adam Ferman and G/DE Seth Dillard. The Bulldogs are also eager to see what the 6’4 sophomore Derick Willies can bring to the table at wide-out and in coverage.

Head Coach: Leon Evans

2009 Record: 3-7

Key Losses: Chris Henderson

Key Additions: Derrick Willies, Austin Turley, Trajon Pili

Key Returners: Seth Dillard, Willie White, Adam Ferman, Jacobi Owens, Taj Cole

Base Offense: T Formation

Base Defense: 4-4

Player Spotlight: Adam Ferman

Ht: 6’3. Wt: 265.

Class: Senior.

Position(s): OT / DT

Goals for the season: Standout and gain recognition as a senior.

What he’s working on: Footwork and Handwork

What it will take to make the playoffs: Focusing on lifting and running Hard.

Player Spotlight: Seth Dillard

Ht: 6’1. Wt: 245.

Class: Junior.

Position(s): OG / DE

Goals for the season: Have a breakout season

What he’s working on: Gaining size and speed, technique

What he thinks it will take to make the playoffs: Hard work

Player Spotlight: Jacobi Owens

Ht: 6’. Wt: 175.

Class: Junior.

Position(s): RB / DB

Goals for the season: Payback for last season

What he’s working on: Every aspect of his game

What he thinks it will take to make the playoffs: Play as a team

Player Spotlight: Willie White

Ht: 5’9. Wt: 200.

Class: Senior.

Position(s): OLB / RB

Goals for the season: Lead his team to the playoffs

What he’s working on: Being a more spiritual leader, and a better leader all around

What he thinks it will take to make the playoffs: Staying humble and hungry.

Player Spotlight: Derick Willies

Ht: 6’4. Wt: 170.

Class: Sophomore.

Position(s): WR / DB

Goals for the season: Improve his game

What he’s working on: Route running, speed

What he thinks it will take to make the playoffs: Be one unit, play hard, be humble

Player Spotlight: Taj Cole

Ht: 5’8. Wt: 165.

Class: Senior

Position(s): RB / DB

Goals for the season: Win State

What he’s working on: His hands

What he thinks it will take to make the playoffs: Stick together, keep each other up.

By Jeff Mumford