Bishop McLaughlin

By Chris Wagenheim
Published August 31, 2007

Here to stay

Coach Marty Williams makes his head coaching debut this season. Williams gushed about the idea of retiring at Bishop McLaughlin, saying, "I am planning on being here until I am done." Such a mind-set could bring much-needed stability to a very young program that turned a corner last year but now has to start over.

Still green

Bishop McLaughlin is only in its third varsity season. This year's seniors will be only the second senior class. They play in a league that spans three counties and will be the county's most traveled football team this season with two trips to St. Petersburg, one to Clearwater, one to Tampa and one to Brooksville.

Brains over brawn

Because of a lack of size everywhere, particularly the offensive line, Bishop McLaughlin will compensate with a wishbone-style offense led by junior quarterback Jeff Pope.

"We're trying to outsmart people," Williams said. "Just outsmart them and outplay them."

Friday night lights

This season, due to recently installed stadium lights, Bishop McLaughlin will host night games for the first time. All of last season's home games were played at 4 p.m. Both team and coach are excited to get out of the sun and heat of daytime games.

Three key players

1. Pope, Jr., QB

Hurricanes attack will rely on Pope's swiftness and ability to get rid of the ball as the team lacks power up front.

2. Kevin Aungst, Sr., LB/RB

Aungst is the top returning tackler, but he will also be called on to use his power for carrying the ball.

3. Paul Padilla, Sr., OL/DL

Don't let the best hair in the county fool you. Padilla says he is bigger and stronger than last year and will be the main force up front.

Chris Wagenheim, Times correspondent

[Last modified August 29, 2007, 13:49:00]