Springstead

By KELLIE DIXON
Published August 31, 2007

Burning Question:

Can Springstead bounce back?

With two playoff appearances in the past three years, Springstead's place as a bona fide football program is as much due to its coach as the athletes that passed through its system. That is why the Eagles' 5-5 2006 campaign surprised so many around the county. "We're not pleased with that," coach Bill Vonada said. "We just felt like we left our best effort somewhere else."

Now with rivals Nature Coast and Central coming off their best seasons and Hernando looking to revive itself under Rodney Byrd, Springstead will have to fight to reclaim its position as tops in the county.

Position by Position

Quarterbacks: One of the most underrated aspects of Springstead's success the past few years was John Hogeland, a smart, steady player who kept the offense running smoothly. Now, with Hogeland gone, juniors Ben Noury and James Mahla will share time under center and likely fill in at receiver at times.

Receivers: The past two years, Jeff Haynes was one of the few true go-to receivers in the county. Vying to replaces his 27 catches and 348 yards from a year ago are Bryce Hollingshead, Robbie Feuillebois, Gerard Robillard and Chad Williams. Zach Bailey and Nate Schafer will switch at tight end.

Running back: An injury to Vick Schick last season hampered the Eagles' attempt to replace 2005 Hernando/Citrus Player of the Year Seth Metz. This year, it is unclear who will try to fill the void. Devean Huff, the only freshman on the team, could see time, along with David Bushnell, Jake Earp, Mike Greco, Steve Caphart and James Wozniak.

Offensive line: Luis Delgado returns from a torn ACL to bolster a less experienced line that will miss Anthony Scarantino, who helped the Eagles average 4.9 yards.

Defensive line:Bailey will lead the line and get help from a variety of players, including Anthony DeRenzi, who went from vying for a defensive back spot to one on the line.

Linebackers: Daniel Wilson moves from the line and will help the experienced Schafer and Earp. Greco, Caphart and Wozniak will rotate in.

Secondary: Noury and Glenn Clarke offer speed and experience.

Kellie Dixon, Times staff writer

Big Games

Sept. 7 vs. Nature Coast

Last year, the Sharks stunned the Eagles, using a last-second touchdown run by quarterback Josh Ortiz to win 15-10. Don't think for a moment Springstead has forgotten.

Even better: It's the Eagles' home opener.

Sept. 21 vs. Land O'LakesOnce upon a time (read: two years ago) the Gators and the Eagles were the top programs in their respective counties. Now, it's unclear where both schools stand: Land O'Lakes lost a ton of talent from last year's squad, while Springstead is looking to bounce back from a disappointing season. This showdown in Spring Hill should help clarify the picture in Class 4A, District 8.

[Last modified August 29, 2007, 13:29:17]