Osceola: Pinellas progress reports

By BOB PUTNAM
Published May 29, 2007

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Osceola

Coach: George Palmer (18th season)

2006 record: 8-2

Key losses: QB Sergio Allen, DL Nick Bennett, RB Justin Hart, OL/DL Josh Willett, FB/LB Bryce Williams

Key returners: LB Rick Duffy, TE/DL Anthony Matacchiero, RB/LB Kevin O'Donnell, DB/RB Matt Palmer, RB/LB Sean Palmer, OL/DL Austin Tottle

Spring skinny: The Warriors were hurt by graduation, losing 18 seniors, most of whom were starters. Osceola must rely on an opportunistic defense, which scored on a fumble return in the spring game against Springstead.

 

Key questions: How will the Warriors replace nearly every starter from last season? Can they stay competitive in a district that includes Boca Ciega, Bradenton Southeast and Northeast?

Gamebreaker: Sean Palmer was one of few underclassmen to play last season. He'll split time at fullback and start at defensive back.

Schedule: Aug. 31: at Dixie Hollins; Sept. 7: at Clearwater; Sept. 14: Dunedin; Sept. 20: Bradenton Bayshore; Sept. 28: Seminole; Oct. 5: Bradenton Southeast; Oct. 12: at PHU; Oct. 19: Lakewood; Oct. 26: at Boca Ciega; Nov. 2: at Northeast; Nov. 9: bye

Bob Putnam, Times staff writer