KEY LOSSES: There are none because this is only a second-year program.
BIG GAME: Bethune-Cookman, Sept. 20. Other than the Shula Bowl, this is the big one because it's the home opener (after two road games) and it allows the chance to avenge last year's 31-0 loss.
LOCAL TIES: WR Harold Leath (Wharton); DB C.J. Janis-Smith (Jefferson); DB Terran Bell (Valrico); RB Adam Gorman (St. Petersburg Catholic); LB David Vaughns (Robinson); OL John Shanahan (Brandon); OL Victor Cernius (Tampa Catholic).
OUTLOOK: As with any second-year program, this will be another step in the learning process. Youth still could be a problem, but the Panthers have a decent offense and might pull off some surprises.
COACH'S TAKE: "There is no doubt that we improved ourselves as far as an overall football team is concerned. We really know our football team well. We have nearly 40 returnees who are entering their third year in our system. We'll be counting on these guys to be our leaders and teach the younger ones."
