Mitchell
By Times staff
Published August 31, 2007
Over the hump
Tate Humphrey enters the season as the county's most exciting player. Few can do more than the senior quarterback, who threw for 1,342 yards (second in the county), and rushed for 646 yards and 13 touchdowns (third in the county) last season. Humphrey tore up a 7-on-7 league this summer, and with more weapons to complement him this year, he should be more explosive. "He's a much better quarterback this year than he was last year," coach Scott Schmitz said.
Wanted: improvement
If the Mustangs defense isn't much improved, Mitchell will have little chance of making the playoffs. Last season, the Mustangs surrendered 38 points or more in six of their 10 games, and they allowed an average of 43 points in four district games. But those sophomore starters are now a year older. And Schmitz hopes a year better. Despite good workouts and good speed camps, Schmitz said he won't stop worrying about giving up a ton of points until his team doesn't give up a ton of points.
Kids in the hall
Last year was one of the youngest teams Schmitz has ever coached. But the varsity team graduated only five starting seniors, giving him one of his more experienced teams.
New blood
Rickey Trinidad is one of the promising newcomers suiting up around the county this year after scoring 17 touchdowns in eighth grade. The freshman running back has been good enough to make varsity for Mitchell, though he will begin the season backing up Sterling Ross.
The running game should be improved with Alonso transfer Justin Hogston, and starters Dominick Booth, Jessey Lorensten, Will Lemmon and Tom Doman return on the offensive line.
Five key players
1. Humphrey, Sr., QB
Duh.
2. Tyrone Hendrix, Sr., WR/CB
Speedy receiver had 23 catches for 429 yards last season and should see more time in the end zone.
3. Booth, Jr., OT
The top talent on a strong offensive line.
4. Ross, Jr., RB
If he can make the transition from slot to tailback, the offense will be that much better.
5. The defense
Just watch. If it's better, the Mustangs could snatch a playoff spot. If not ... well, turn your eyes back to Humphrey.
Chris Wagenheim, Times correspondent