Blake

By Keith Niebuhr
Published August 31, 2007

Multiple Choice

The Blake offensive line will:

A) Be the team's strength

B) Give opposing defenses trouble

C) Rank among the county's best this fall

D) All of the above

Answer: D. On a young team, the Yellow Jackets have a veteran, formidable, line. Senior tackle Vittorio Ottanelli, a two-year starter, might be the best of the bunch; he should play in college. Dontae Davis and Brandon Jennings also are returning starters. This group is big, strong and talented. "You," Blake coach Sean Washington, right, said, "will have to contend with our line."

True-False

Blake running back Willie Hopps will make a push for the county rushing title.

Answer: True. A year ago, the 5-foot-10, 190-pounder rushed for more than 900 yards. If healthy, he should easily surpass that total in 2007. Hopps is a strong inside runner who worked a great deal on his speed this summer. With a nice offensive line in front of him, 100-yard games should be a regular thing.

Yes or No

Will Blake have its most athletic defense of the Washington era (three seasons)?

Answer: Yes. Only two defensive starters return, but the Yellow Jackets don't necessarily see that as a negative. This unit might lack experience, but it has an abundance of speed. "We've been big and lethargic," Washington said. "Now, I have kids that can run. (Opposing) offensive lines will have to dig in against us." Senior end Justin London (6-6, 222) is one defender to watch.

Essay

Middleton coach Harry Hubbard on Blake:

"I think (Blake's record in recent seasons) is misleading. It might be that way because of whom they've played. But I feel they're just as good as any team we play. Blake has athletes and they do a good job of coaching them."

Washington on the Yellow Jackets:

"This can be an outstanding year. My kids know they can play. Our problem has been consistency."

Extra Credit

Transfer Terrance Robertson, a 6-3, 190-pound receiver/safety, can "do it all" and is a Division I-A prospect, Washington said. Last fall, he played for South Sumter, a perennial state power. ... Ottanelli is a 4.0 student. Both of his parents are University of South Florida professors.

Keith Niebuhr, Times staff writer

[Last modified August 29, 2007, 15:12:10]