Fall football practices for Tampa Bay football teams officially kicked off this week. We’re rolling out daily district previews for all 78 varsity teams in the area. Today we look at our smallest district: 

Overview
Indian Rocks Christian was the dominant team last season in Class 2A-5, going 6-0 and outscoring opponents 275-27. The Golden Eagles beat runnerup Carrollwood Day 14-6 and went on to reach the state semifinals. They might be good enough to do all that again, returning almost every key player from last season. But so does most everyone else, including Cambridge Christian and Northside Christian. And the league’s worst team, Keswick Christian, withdrew to play an independent schedule. “There’s no doubt everyone in the district is better this year,” CDS coach Lane McLaughlin said. “It’s going to be tougher to win.” The only 2A-5 team that didn’t finish at least .500 last year was 3-7 Northside Christian, which started mostly freshmen. Canterbury was in the middle of the pack, but low numbers and a lot of underclassmen will make the going tougher. And Bradenton Christian, despite losing eight seniors returns quarterback Joey Giardina, its leading passer and rusher last year. 

The favorite
Indian Rocks Christian returns nearly every significant player on offense. Most of them also are playmakers on defense. No other team in the district has that kind of experience — and talent — going into the season. In fact, the Golden Eagles are looking beyond just a district title. They are eyeing a return trip to the state semifinals and a rematch with defending state champion Miami Champagnat Catholic.

Next in line
If the offensive line holds up, Carrollwood Day is explosive enough to upset the Golden Eagles. And if not, the Patriots’ backfield and defense is still good enough to get them into the playoffs. 

Sleepers
Cambridge Christian might have the most valuable offensive weapon in the district with quarterback Garrett Young (1,861 yards passing, 645 rushing and 34 total touchdowns) and returns all of its offensive skill position players. And watch out for Northside Christian, which remains sophomore heavy, but with plenty of varsity experience and athletes. And the addition of top offensive lineman recruit Dillan Gibbons could be a real difference maker.

Important numbers
3 IRC players who had at least 900 yards rushing last season (Theo Anderson, Damian King, Zeke McGaughy)

98.5 Percentage of Cambridge’s 3,511 yards of offense belonging to players who were underclassmen

95.8 Percentage of IRC’s 4,707 yards of offense belonging to players who were underclassmen

37 Points a game CDS has averaged over the past four years.

Players to watch
QB Josh Belton, So., Canterbury: Belton will be one of the more experienced Crusaders to take the field. An impressive freshman campaign, in which he threw for 681 yards and six touchdowns in a run-heavy offense, was enough to earn the sophomore the starting role again.

RB Elias Earley, Sr., Carrollwood Day: Already pulling track offers after a standout season in the 200 and 400, Earley is a breakaway threat every time he touches the ball.

QB Joey Giardina, Jr., Bradenton Christian: Giardina proved himself a dual threat in his sophomore season, passing for more than 1,000 yards and rushing for another 700.

WR/DB Damian King, Sr., Indian Rocks Christian: The Division I recruit is the team’s top returner in receiving yards (615), interceptions (six) and touchdowns (24). He also is a threat in the return game.

WR/S Josh Snead, Jr., Northside Christian: Snead will play slot receiver on offense. He is one of the more athletic players on the team and is expected to see several passes come his way.

WR Nick Stein, Sr., Cambridge Christian:  Stein will look to be the go-to-guy in filling the void left behind by the graduated Trevor Young. He should be up to the task. The 5-foot-11 playmaker had 491 receiving yards and six total TDs last season.

Mark your calendar
Indian Rocks Christian at Carrollwood Day, Sept. 5: The biggest —  and earliest —  test of the season for the defending district champion Golden Eagles comes on the road against last year’s runnerup. This matchup boasts as many as five potential 1,000-yard rushers (IRC’s Anderson, King, McGaughy; CDS’ Willie Parker and Earley). These teams’ last three meetings were decided by eight points or fewer.

Returning district leaders
Rushing yards: Indian Rocks Christian’s Theo Anderson, 1,090

Rushing TDs: Anderson, 19

Passing yards: Cambridge Christian’s Garrett Young, 1,861

Passing TDs: Young, 20

Receiving yards: IRC’s Damian King, 615

Receiving TDs: King, 10

Tackles: IRC’s Chris Licea, 115

Sacks: Anderson, 10

Interceptions: King, 6

Predicted order of finish
From an anonymous coach in the district

1. Carrollwood Day

2. Indian Rocks Christian

3. Cambridge Christian

4. Northside Christian

5. Canterbury

6. Bradenton Christian

Final word
“On paper, this is the best team I’ve had since I’ve been here.” — IRC coach Mark Buchanan, who is entering his 10th season

Times staff writer Rodney Page and Jacob Lynn, and correspondent Jeff Odom contributed to this report. 

Cambridge Christian

Coach: Bob Dare (sixth season, 26-24; 26th overall, 139-116)

Last season: 6-4

Class/district: 2A-5

Colors: Navy and gold

Stadium: Skyway Park, 3901 George Road, Tampa

Playoff appearances: None

Season schedule
Aug. 29vs. Calvary Christian, 7:30

Sept. 5vs. Bradenton Christian, 7:30

Sept. 12vs. Hawthorne Middle Senior, 7:30

Sept. 19at Gateway, 7

Sept. 26at Bishop McLaughlin, 7:30

Oct. 3at Northside Christian, 7

Oct. 10vs. Shorecrest, 7:30

Oct. 17at Indian Rocks Christian, 7:30

Oct. 24at Carrollwood Day (Skyway Park), 7 

Oct. 30at Canterbury School, 7

Mark your calendar
Cambridge Christian at Carrollwood Day, Oct. 24: The Lancers have never beaten district rival CDS in five meetings. But with added depth and 12 returning seniors, Cambridge should be more competitive than its 20-point home loss to the Patriots last season.

Huddle highlights
Record numbers: Cambridge has come a long way since coach Bob Dare’s first season, when he had only 20 players. This season, that number has more than doubled with 46 on the roster for the fall, a program record. The newfound depth also means players won’t have to play both ways as often.

Playoffs or bust? Three straight 6-4 seasons with third-place finishes in 2A-5 have the Lancers hungry to finally get over the hump and into the postseason for the first time. After summer workouts and success in 7-on-7 tournaments, Dare said expectations are high, and the team believes it can compete for a district title.

Experienced signal caller: Garrett Young, who has already set multiple passing records for the Lancers, returns for his third season starting under center and has plenty of targets. The senior has interest from several Division II programs, including Mercer, Stetson and Florida Tech.

Eliminating big plays: One of the biggest issues last season, according to Dare, was the amount of momentum-killing plays allowed by the defense in critical moments. He expects that to decrease dramatically this year with players able to substitute out of the game for the first time, thanks to the increased turnout.

Known quantities
QB Garrett Young, Sr.: Young’s a dual threat under center. His skill and leadership will be heavily relied on if the Lancers make a playoff push.

WR/LB Nick Stein, Sr.: Stein will look to be the go-to-guy in filling the void left behind by the graduated  Trevor Young. He should be up to the task. The 5-foot-11 playmaker had 491 receiving yards and six total TDs last season.

RB/LB Zack Stein, So.: The two-way standout — and Nick’s brother — looks to capitalize off a strong freshman campaign when he rushed for seven touchdowns as a starting running back.

LB/RB Josh Wolcott, Sr.: He proved to be one of the team’s top defensive players last season (49 tackles, seven sacks, two interceptions). And don’t sleep on his offensive skills.

Up-and-comers
RB/LB Andrew Cunningham, Fr.: Cunningham will have a big role in the rushing attack after appearing in eight games as an eighth-grader. He could be a solid option on defense, too.

OL/DL Richard Gouraige, Fr.: Already one of the tallest players on the roster at 6-foot-6, Dare complimented Gouraige’s footwork and hands and expects the new arrival to be one of the team’s centerpieces moving forward.

QB Caleb Young, Fr.: He could be ready to take the reins at starter from his older brother by season’s end.

Coach’s corner
“We have a number of younger guys who aren’t afraid to compete. I think that’s going to help everybody. A little bit of depth and a little bit of competition at this level really helps. The competition for us, now, is more than just on Friday nights. It’s also during the week for a chance for guys to play.” — Dare

Photo: Nick Stein

Canterbury 

Coach: Bill Jones (fourth season, 20-12)

Last season: 6-4

Class/district:2A-5

Colors: Royal blue, gold and white

Stadium: Canterbury Field, 901 58th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg

Playoff appearance: 2011

Last appearance: Beat St. John Neumann 36-8; lost 38-24 to Admiral Farragut.

Season schedule
Aug. 29vs. New Generation Prep, 7

Sept. 5vs. Shorecrest, 7

Sept. 12vs. Oak Hall, 7

Sept. 19at Bradenton Christian, 7:30

Sept. 26at Zion Lutheran, 6

Oct. 3at Carrollwood Day (Skyway Park), 7

Oct. 10at Indian Rocks Christian, 7:30

Oct. 24vs. Northside Christian, 7

Oct. 30vs. Cambridge Christian, 7

Nov. 7at Gateway, 7

Mark your calendar 
Shorecrest at Canterbury, Sept. 5: This will be the first time that former Shorecrest head coach and current Canterbury defensive coordinator Phil Hayford will meet his old school in the regular season. The teams met in last year’s spring game with the Crusaders shutting out the Chargers 24-0. 

Huddle highlights
Numbers crunch: Like other small private schools in the area, the Crusaders will struggle with numbers. Coach Bill Jones expects around 20. And out of that, somewhere around eight will start on both sides of the ball.

Tough district: A 3-3 record in district play put Canterbury right in the middle of the standings. With juggernauts Indian Rocks Christian and Carrollwood Day on the schedule, it may be hard for the Crusaders to make up any more ground. 

More transfers: No one’s sure where junior receiver Dontell Green will be playing in the fall; a move to California or to Admiral Farragut is a possibility. All that is known is Green won’t be wearing a Crusaders uniform this year. Sophomore receiver Zion Roland, who had flirted with attending Clearwater Central Catholic, will likely be at Lakewood this fall. 

Known quantities
QB Josh Belton, So.: Belton will be one of the more experienced Crusaders to take the field. An impressive freshman campaign, in which he threw for 681 yards and six touchdowns in a run-heavy offense, was enough to earn the sophomore the starting role again.

WR/DB Alex Nestor, Sr.: Nestor was third on the team last season in receptions and yards, but his experience will be valuable on a team full of underclassmen. At 6-foot-2, his size will be a valuable asset for Belton.

WR Hunter Coia, Sr.: Coia will line up opposite Nestor and will be asked to fill the void left by Roland. Coia had more than 150 receiving yards in 2013, but those numbers will have to improve if the Crusaders don’t want to miss a beat on offense. 

Up-and-comer
WR/DB Da’Quan Person, So.: Person will be a third option out of the slot for Belton. The Crusaders will need him to grow up fast on defense, however, as he will be asked to shut down opponents’ top receivers. 

Coach’s corner
“Everything we do has to be quick. We’re not going to blow anybody up off the ball this season, so everything has to be quick and precise.” — Jones

Photo: Josh Belton

Carrollwood Day

Coach: Lane McLaughlin (seventh season, 43-21)

2013 record: 7-4

Class/district: 2A-5

Colors: Red, white, black

Stadium: Unnamed. 1515 Bearss Ave. 

Playoff appearances: 2012, 2013

Last appearance: Lost 20-0 to Naples First Baptist.

Season schedule
Aug. 29at University Christian, 7:30

Sept. 5vs. Indian Rocks Christian, 4

Sept. 12vs. Foundation Academy, 7 (Skyway Park)

Sept. 26at Admiral Farragut, 7:30

Oct. 3vs. Canterbury School (at Skyway Park), 7

Oct. 10at Trinity Prep, 7

Oct. 17at Bradenton Christian, 7:30

Oct. 24vs. Cambridge Christian (at Skyway Park), 7

Oct. 31at Northside Christian, 7

Nov. 7at Shorecrest, 7

Mark your calendar
Indian Rocks Christian at Carrollwood Day, Sept. 5: CDS is currently scheduled to play only one game on its campus, and that’s this district opener against the favored Golden Eagles. The 4 p.m. start features as many as five potential 1,000-yard rushers (IRC’s Theo Anderson, Damian King, Zeke McGaughy; CDS’ Willie Parker and Elias Earley), and could very well decide the district champion. It’s a big enough game that coach Lane McLaughlin says it may be moved to a stadium with lights for a television broadcast. And as a bonus: Don’t forget the Sept. 26 game against rival Admiral Farragut. The average score of this showdown the past three years? 45-35, with the Blue Jackets a perfect 3-0. 

Huddle highlights
A contender: McLaughlin thinks his team will be a player in the district title hunt. The big game will be against Indian Rocks Christian, and the scores of the last three meetings between the teams have been 14-6 (2013, IRC win), 28-22 (2012, CDS win) and 58-55 (2011, IRC win).

Young guns: McLaughlin says he has his best freshman class since he’s been at the school.

Home away from home: The Patriots will play three “home” games at Skyway Park, abandoning the 4 p.m. starter at their lightless field in hopes of attracting more student support. McLaughlin wants to play a fourth home game at Gaither or another nearby high school.

Double duty: Corey Shamley started his high school career as the kicker for Hillsborough High and has grown into a 6-foot-1, 270-pound starting left tackle for the Patriots. But on kicks of more than 30 yards this season, the Patriots will call on him to dust off his kicking boots.

Scoring machine: How good has CDS been? It averaged 36.4 points a game last season, but that was still the Patriots’ lowest total since 2008.

Known quantities
LB Max Frankel, Sr.: Frankel had 104 tackles and two sacks, is one of the better linebackers in Class 2A and will contribute from the backfield as well (five touchdowns last year).

RB Willie Parker, Sr.: The Patriots’ top recruit, Parker ran for 1,019 yards and 10 TDs last season.

RB Elias Earley, Sr.: Already pulling track offers after a standout season in the 200 and 400, Earley is a breakaway threat every time he touches the ball.

WR/DB Nazir Achecar, So.: Started as a freshman last year, and led the team with three interceptions and averaged more than 30 yards a catch.

OL Carlos Acuna, Sr: Acuna is up to 6-3, 260 pounds, and the right tackle will be one of the anchors on an improved offensive line. He plays defense as well.

Up-and-comers
QB Aaron Angelos, Fr.: Stepped in because of injuries and looked good in the spring. He will battle Spencer Peek and Zac Watson Parcels for the starting job. McLaughlin sees Angelos as a Division I-A recruit down the road.

OL Jalon Corp, Sr.: A 6-3, 340-pound transfer from Michigan, Corp is coming off a knee injury, but once healthy should be a force.

QB Zac Watson Parcels, Jr.: The Steinbrenner transfer looks the part at 6-3, 205 pounds, but will have to battle to become the starter.

Coach’s corner
“Everybody thinks we’re a pass-happy offense, but we’ve thrown less and less. …With Earley and Parker in the backfield, and you’ll see Frankel back there, too, we plan on running the ball. We should be pretty good at it.” — McLaughlin

Photo: Elias Earley

Indian Rocks Christian 

Coach: Mark Buchanan (10th season, 57-39) 

Last season: 10-3

Class/district: 2A-5

Colors: Blue, red and white 

Stadium: The Eagles Nest, 12685 Ulmerton Road, Largo

Playoff appearances: 1998, 1999, 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013

Last appearance: Beat Moore Haven 24-22; beat Naples First Baptist 28-14; lost 28-14 to Hialeah Champagnat.

Season schedule
Aug. 29at St. Petersburg Catholic, 7

Sept. 5at Carrollwood Day, 4

Sept. 12at Admiral Farragut, 7:30

Sept. 19 at Northside Christian, 7

Sept. 26vs. Shorecrest, 7:30

Oct. 3vs. Bradenton Christian, 7:30

Oct. 10vs. Canterbury, 7:30

Oct. 17vs. Cambridge Christian, 7:30

Oct. 31vs. Tampa Catholic, 7:30

Nov. 7vs. Calvary Christian, 7:30

Mark your calendar
Indian Rocks Christian at Carrollwood Day, Sept. 5: The biggest  — and earliest — test of the season for the defending district champion Golden Eagles comes on the road against last year’s runnerup. The game should be close considering the last three meetings were decided by eight points or fewer. It also should have postseason implications with the last two games playing a major role in deciding the district champion. Damian King came up big for IRC in last year’s 14-6 win with 89 yards rushing, 34 receiving and a touchdown. The win allowed the Golden Eagles to ultimately clinch the district title and host three straight playoff games, including their first state semifinal appearance.

Huddle highlights
Healthy numbers: Due in large part to its state semifinal appearance, IRC’s football program has become a big draw among students. The varsity team has 45 players while the middle school program has about 35. Those are strong numbers for a school that has an enrollment of roughly 240 at the high school level.

Split schedule: The first four games of the season are all on the road, including two against playoff contenders Carrollwood Day and Northside Christian. But the final six are all home. The most intriguing game in that stretch is against Tampa Catholic on Oct. 31. TC also made the state semifinals (Class 3A) a year ago.

Tight end factory: IRC has a knack for producing big, quality tight ends — from Sean Culkin (6-foot-5, 225 pounds), who is now at Missouri, to Ryan Ferguson (6-4, 185), who is a preferred walk-on at Florida. Sam Veltman could be the next big one. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound sophomore played well in the spring and should have a significant role in the passing game.

Leaders of the pack: No team in 2A-5 returns as much production from its starters as IRC. Of the 4,707 yards the Golden Eagles gained last season, 95.8 percent of that was by underclassmen. And the Golden Eagles could have more firepower. St. Petersburg Catholic running back/receiver Jacquan Fuller (1,680 all-purpose yards) has applied to attend IRC.

Plugging the holes: The only question mark on offense was up front. IRC graduated two starters on the offensive line. Still, Golden Eagles coach Mark Buchanan said he has capable replacements. Kal Miranda, who started about half the time last season, will fill one of the holes. The other newcomer will be Taylor Cowgill, who moves from middle linebacker to center. They will team up with holdovers Jay Dempsey, John DeVries and Jake Ellis on a revamped line.

Known quantities
RB/DL Theo Anderson, Jr.: His speed was a big reason he rushed for 1,090 yards and 19 touchdowns and had 10 sacks as a defensive end.

WR/DB Damian King, Sr.: The Division I recruit is the team’s top returner in receiving yards (615), interceptions (six) and touchdowns (24). He also is a threat in the return game.

WR/LB Chris Licea, Sr.: His biggest role will be on defense, where he put up solid numbers last season — 115 tackles, four sacks and three interceptions.

RB/LB Zeke McGaughy, Jr.: Despite battling injuries last season, McGaughy still rushed for 920 yards and scored nine touchdowns.

QB Garrett Ross-Johnson, Jr.: In the offseason, Ross-Johnson thought about giving up football to concentrate on baseball. He returned and should improve upon the 1,378 yards and 13 touchdowns he had last season.

Up-and-comers
WR/DB Tristan Denisac, Sr: He recorded 49 tackles and three interceptions last season and will be a leader of a veteran secondary. 

QB/DL Christian Frost, Sr.: The son of former IRC basketball coach Joe Frost had four sacks in 2013 and returns on a veteran defensive line.

FB/DL Fisher Jones, Sr.: The two-way player is a devastating blocker in the run game and a force on the defense with 57 tackles and six sacks last season.

K/P Clark Sullivan, Sr.: He’ll handle all of the kicking chores. Last season, Sullivan made 46-of-52 PATs and was 1-of-3 on field goals.

Coach’s corner
“On paper, this is the best team I’ve had since I’ve been here.” — Buchanan, who is entering his 10th season

Photo: Theo Anderson 

Northside Christian

Coach: Mike Alstott (third season, 3-17)

2013 record: 3-7

Class/district:2A-5

Colors: Royal blue and white

Stadium: Brandes-Russell Field, 7777 62nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg

Playoff appearances: 1986, 1989, 1996, 1997, 2003, 2004, 200­6

Last appearance: Lost 61-18 to Belle Glades Glade Day.

Season schedule
Aug. 29vs. Shorecrest, 7

Sept. 5vs. Bishop McLaughlin, 7

Sept. 12vs. Calvary Christian, 7

Sept. 19vs. Indian Rocks Christian, 7

Oct. 3.vs. Cambridge Christian, 7

Oct. 10at Bradenton Christian, 7:30

Oct. 17at St. Edward’s, 7

Oct. 24at Canterbury, 7

Oct. 31vs. Carrollwood Day, 7

Nov. 7at St. Petersburg Catholic, 7

Mark your calendar
Indian Rocks Christian at Northside Christian, Sept. 19: It’s the Mustangs’ fourth game of the regular season, but it’s the first 2A-5 showdown. IRC was undefeated in the district last season, so Northside will find out where it stands around the season’s midway point. The last two meetings have been lopsided, with IRC winning by a combined 81-0. The Mustangs should make things much more competitive this season.

Huddle highlights
Growing numbers: When Mike Alstott took over three years ago he had about 20 players. Total. This season he expects to have 49 players. For the first time in a long time, Northside had a junior varsity team last season. That team went 5-0, and many of those players will now have an impact on the varsity. While there are only four seniors, the Mustangs finally have depth.

Alstott under center: Sophomore Griffin Alstott (yes, Mike’s son) will start at quarterback. Alstott played the second half of the 2013 season for Northside and played well. He will be a big piece in the Mustangs spread offense.

Presence on the line: There is some beef on the offensive line. Freshman Drew Littrell is 6 feet 2, 260 pounds. He was forced into action last year as an eighth-grader and played well. And just a few weeks ago, sophomore Dillan Gibbons transferred from Palm Harbor University. Gibbons (6-1, 270) played at St. Petersburg Catholic last season.

Time for a turnaround: Northside’s last winning season was 2009. Since then the Mustangs have won a total of eight games. While they might not win eight, expectations are to have the first winning season in five years.

Future looks bright: There are more than 20 sophomores and 10 freshmen on varsity. If that group stays together, look out.

Known quantities
WR/S Josh Snead, Jr.: Snead will play slot receiver on offense. He is one of the more athletic players on the team and is expected to see several passes come his way.

RB/DB Fiante Bell, Sr.: One of only four seniors, Bell has been with Northside since his freshman year. As the main ball carrier in the spread offense he could put up big numbers.

RB/DB Kamen Wilmington, So.: He will be part of a platoon system with Bell in the backfield. He’ll also roam the secondary with Bell, giving the Mustangs a nice one-two punch.

LB Ben Knox, Jr.: An experienced linebacker, Knox will be the main man in the middle.

Up-and-comers
QB Griffin Alstott, So.: He stepped in midway through the varsity season and helped the Mustangs win two games. As the JV quarterback, Alstott was 5-0. Has a blend of size and speed that will be used in the spread offense.

OL Dillan Gibbons, So.: The transfer, who already boasts offers from the likes of Ohio State, Cincinnati and South Carolina, will likely play left tackle and protect Alstott’s blind side.

DE Tah’shim Knight, So.: Alstott said Knight has the potential to be special. His main job will be to chase the quarterback for four quarters.

OL Drew Littrell, Fr.: He’ll play right tackle and form a huge bookend with Gibbons on the right.

WR/S Darius Williams, Jr.: New to Northside this season, Williams will play slot receiver and give Alstott another big target.

Coach’s corner
“We have depth at every position now. It’s a situation here where if you’re not committed, if you can’t make your grades or if you’re not going to show up, my hands are not tied anymore. I don’t have to play you. I can ask this guy over here and he’ll do just as good of a job. There’s competition now. I think that’s special at a small 2A school like this.” — Mike Alstott

Four years ago, Nature Coast offensive lineman Christian Pellage weighed 225 pounds. He was raw. His technique was not sound.

“I didn’t really know what I was doing,” he said.

Since then, Pellage has grown in size (6-foot-7, 290 pounds) and stature. On Friday, he was the big man on campus as he had the undivided attention of classmates and recruiting aficionados who were anxiously awaiting where he would be committing to play college football.

Pellage did not let the suspense linger. Pellage thanked everyone before standing up and putting on a South Carolina hat in front of about 100 family members, friends and reporters in the school’s gymnasium. 

Pellage, a three-star recruit, picked the Gamecocks over an impressive list of more than two-dozen offers from Division I schools. Though he didn’t have a set list of finalists, he said he picked South Carolina over Alabama, Florida and Miami.

Pellage visited South Carolina during his spring break and went to camp there July 22-23, his last camp of the summer.

“It just came down to a feeling I got when I was there,” he said.  

He was listed as the 13th best player in the Tampa Bay Times’ HomeTeam 100 this summer. Rivals and 247Sports each have him ranked among the top 60 in the 2015 class at his position.

“It’s amazing to see how far Christian has come,” said his mother, Bonnie Pellage. “He got his first offer last year, and we were kind of taken aback and honored to see so many schools offered him after that. He’s handled it all very well. Of all the schools, South Carolina just felt like home to him.”

He is Nature Coast’s third FBS recruit in as many years, joining defensive lineman Rohan Blackwood (USF) and running back Matt Breida (Georgia Southern).

Part of the reason Pellage decided to make his decision now was so he could concentrate on his senior season.

“I wanted to do something big, and felt like having it at the school would be the best place,” Pellage said. “I was a little nervous. But it felt good, and now I can focus on my team and try to get us to the playoffs.”

The Sharks were 4-6 last season and have a new coach, Justin Worden.

“It was nice to get someone like Christian to work with coming here,” Worden said. “He’s so athletically gifted. He can move so well laterally. It’s tough to find that kind of movement in a guy so big.”

Fall football practices for Tampa Bay football teams officially kicked off this week. We’re rolling out daily district previews for all 78 varsity teams in the area. Today we look at a mixed Hillsborough-Polk County district.

Overview
Berkeley Prep coach Dominick Ciao thinks his district is the toughest in Class 3A, and by the looks of things, he might be right. Tampa Catholic ran the table last season, winning all five district matchups. The middle four teams all finished with a 2-3 or 3-2 record, and with no clear-cut second-best team, the second playoff spot came down to a tiebreaker between Frostproof and Fort Meade. Now that last-place Bishop McLaughlin opted to become independent, expect the now five-team district to be even more competitive. All five squads have at least one Division I prospect, and Fort Meade, arguably the least stacked of them all, is led by highly regarded coach Jermalle Cornelius, whose team didn’t make the playoffs for the first time in years last season. The closer we get to playoff time, the more fun district 3A-4 should be to watch. 

The favorite
Tampa Catholic lost some big playmakers, but it appears the Crusaders have done a good job of training their young guys to take over. Add one of Tampa Bay’s best players into the mix, and the Crusaders should have the talent to take another crack at a championship run. “For the young guys especially, I think they learned what it takes,” TC coach Mike Gregory said of last season’s run to the state semifinals. “They learned how to focus and how to prepare for teams of higher caliber you see in the playoffs.”

Next in line
If there’s anyone that can challenge the Crusaders’ top spot, it’s the Vikings. With a fifth-year quarterback in Christian Alexander, a UCLA-bound running back in T.J. Simmons and help from Winter Haven transfer Keland White on the ground, Lakeland Christian should be a playoff team, if not the district champ. 

Sleeper
Berkeley finished near the bottom of the pack last season, but expect a turnaround and fight for a playoff spot. Quarterback Brad Mayes has improved in the offseason, and if he’s able to keep Berkeley Prep strong down the stretch — when the Bucs struggled the most last year — things could get interesting in this competitive district.

Important numbers
4 Players from Tampa Catholic’s 2013 state semifinalist team who are now on Division I rosters.

60.2 District-leading tackles per game by Berkeley Prep. Joe Schiano and his 8.9 per game are back to head up the defense. 

36 Sacks tallied by Tampa Catholic a year ago, most in the district. Junior Malik Barrow was responsible for 13 of those. 

5,452 Passing yards accrued by fifth-year Lakeland Christian starting quarterback Christian Alexander. Talk about reps. 

Players to watch
QB Christian Alexander, Sr., Lakeland Christian: This Florida International commit has started every year since eighth grade. A stat for opposing defenses: He was intercepted only four times last year in 206 attempts.  

WR Nate Craig, Jr., Tampa Catholic: One of the nation’s top 2016 recruits and a recent Auburn commit, Craig’s ability to make jaw-dropping receptions should be a big help to the Crusaders, provided they have a quarterback that can get him the ball. 

DB Kaleel Gaines, Sr., Frostproof: The recent Michigan State commit comes from a family of good athletes, and he’ll be joined this season by brother D’angelo — a running back who recorded more than 1,000 yards for Winter Haven last season.

WR Jacob Mathis, Jr., Berkeley Prep: Mathis led the Bucs in receiving yards (330) last season, and with a quarterback who’s got another year under his belt, the two could put on a show. 

RB TJ Simmons, Sr., Lakeland Christian: The UCLA commit had more than 1,200 yards rushing last season. Now that he’s joining forces with White, Simmons could get away with a whole lot more.

Mark your calendar
Berkeley Prep at Lakeland Christian, Sept. 18: For a Berkeley Prep team that lost three district games by the skin of its teeth, every 3A-4 game will be a big one for the Bucs. A rematch with Lakeland Christian in Week 4, though, might be the biggest. The Bucs led by a touchdown at halftime last season before allowing the Vikings to tie it up at the end of regulation. And in what would begin a trend of close losses, Berkeley Prep lost 27-24 in double overtime. 

Returning district leaders
Rushing yards: Lakeland Christian’s TJ Simmons, 1,257

Rushing TDs: Simmons, 11

Passing yards: Lakeland Christian’s Christian Alexander, 1,865 

Passing TDs: Christian, 22

Receiving yards: Lakeland Christian’s RB Marlow, 571

Receiving TDs: Marlow, 8 

Tackles: Tampa Catholic’s Cody Endris, 83

Sacks: Tampa Catholic’s Malik Barrow, 13

Interceptions: Endris, 4

Predicted order of finish
Ranked by the Winter Haven News Chief’s Bill Kemp

1. Lakeland Christian

2. Tampa Catholic

3. Frost Proof

4. Fort Meade

5. Berkeley Prep

Final word
“Right now as I see it, Berkeley Prep is probably the best team in our district as it stands.” —  Tampa Catholic coach Mike Gregory

Fall football practices for Tampa Bay football teams officially kicked off this week. We’re rolling out daily district previews for all 78 varsity teams in the area. Today we look at an all-Pinellas County league.

Overview
Clearwater Central Catholic dominated this district last season, outscoring opponents 175-40 and going on to play in the Class 3A state championship game. There are plenty of reasons to believe the Marauders can do that again this season. Most of the offense is back, and it’s not like the other district teams have vastly improved. St. Petersburg Catholic, the second-place team in 2013, has been gutted by transfers. Calvary Christian and Admiral Farragut appear to be better, but do they have the  firepower to hang with CCC? And Shorecrest has dropped out of the district, opting to play an independent schedule. 

The favorite
Last season, Clearwater Central Catholic went undefeated in 3A-5 thanks to an offense that scored at least 35 points in each of its four games against district foes. The Marauders offense could be even more potent with nine starters returning. The biggest holes CCC has to fill are on defense, where it lost eight starters, including the entire front seven. That could make the games closer, but CCC should be favored in each one.

Next in line
This is the second year for Admiral Farragut coach Ryan Hearn, and he has more players — and stability — this season. Quarterback Dalton Collins could be right there with Jeff Smith at CCC, and he has some weapons to use. The question might be on defense. The Blue Jackets gave up 29 points per game in 2013. 

Sleeper
Calvary Christian has never made the playoffs. The Warriors (5-5 in 2013) should continue to make strides and contend for the postseason, especially with the additions of quarterback Jack Sheehan and running back Stephon Williams, both transfers from St. Petersburg Catholic. The biggest area Calvary needs to improve is on defense, where it gave up 35 points or more in three of its four district games last season.

Important numbers
0 Players who transferred to Clearwater Central Catholic this offseason

7 Starters who transferred out of St. Petersburg Catholic

15 Seniors on Calvary Christian’s roster

14 Freshman players for SPC

3 Seniors on SPC’s roster

Players to watch
OL Billy Atterbury, Sr., Clearwater Central Catholic: The three-star recruit is a mauler in the run game and agile enough to protect fleet-footed quarterback Jeff Smith in passing situations. More importantly, he is the leader on a veteran line that should be one of the team’s strengths. 

WR/DB Jestin Green, Sr., Admiral Farragut: Already signed with Florida International, Green is a speedy slot receiver and solid defensive back. Look for him to be on the end of several Collins’ passes. “Last year we had about two or three receivers,” Green said. “This year we’ve got eight or nine. It’s going to make things easier to spread the ball around. I’m very excited about what we can do.”

QB Jordan Leston, Sr., St. Petersburg Catholic: All that’s known about the left-handed Leston is that he is powerfully built (6-2, 205), and can run and throw (think mini-Tim Tebow). He hasn’t had a chance to start until this season and looked impressive in the spring.

TE/DE Wesley Vollmer, Sr., Calvary Christian: At 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, Vollmer provides more than just size up front. He led the team in receiving yards (395) and was tied for first with three touchdown grabs. On defense, Vollmer will add depth to a unit full of veterans. His 52 total tackles last season were third most on the team. 

Mark your calendar
Clearwater Central Catholic at Admiral Farragut, Oct. 24: This is the district finale for both teams and a matchup that could ultimately decide the champion and runnerup. The Marauders, with lots of weapons on offense, are favored to repeat. The Blue Jackets, based on the potential of their young talent, could pose the biggest threat. Last year, CCC won in a blowout, 44-3. The key will be how much AFA’s defense has improved. The Blue Jackets allowed 334 yards rushing in last year’s rout. 

Returning district leaders
Rushing yards: Admiral Farragut’s Dalton Collins, 660

Rushing TDs: Collins, 10

Passing yards: Clearwater Central Catholic’s Jeff Smith, 1,366 

Passing TDs: Smith, 7

Receiving yards: CCC’s  CJ Cotman, 464

Receiving TDs: CCC’s John Brunner, 4

Tackles: CCC’s Demetri Royer, 72

Sacks: CCC’s Brandon Junk, 5

Interceptions: CCC’s Demetri Royer, 5

Predicted order of finish
From an anonymous coach in the district 

1. Clearwater Central Catholic 

2. Admiral Farragut

3. Calvary Christian 

4. St. Petersburg Catholic

Final word
“We don’t have that big senior class, but we do have a lot of young players who are excited to play. They’re all going to get their chance to show what they can do.” — St. Petersburg Catholic coach Dave Cleppe

Staff writer Jacob Lynn contributed to this report. 

Photo: Jeff Smith

Berkeley Prep

Coach: Dominick Ciao (eighth season, 50-23; 25th overall, 182-84)

2013 record: 5-4

Class/district:3A-4

Colors: Columbia blue and white 

Stadium: Newman Stadium, 4811 Kelly Road, Tampa

Playoff history: 1980, 1984, 1985, 2003, 2004, 2009, 2010, 2011

Last appearance: Beat Frostproof 41-6; beat Fort Meade 21-0; lost 17-9 to Delray Beach American Heritage. 

Aug. 29at Middleton, 7:30

Sept. 5vs. Lakeland Victory Christian, 7

Sept. 12vs. Sarasota Booker, 7:30

Sept. 18at Lakeland Christian, 7:30

Sept. 26vs. Springstead, 7:30

Oct.2vs. Fort Meade, 7

Oct. 17at Tampa Catholic, 7

Oct. 24vs. Montverde, 7

Oct. 31vs. Frostproof, 7

Nov. 7at Brandon, 7:30

Mark your calendar
Berkeley Prep at Lakeland Christian, Sept. 18: For a Berkeley Prep team that lost three district games by the skin of its teeth, every 3A-4 game will be a big one for the Bucs. A rematch with Lakeland Christian in Week 4, though, might be the biggest. The Bucs led by a touchdown at halftime last season before allowing the Vikings to tie it up at the end of regulation. And in what would begin a trend of close losses, Berkeley Prep lost 27-24 in double overtime. It resulted in a bad feeling coach Dominick Ciao said his Bucs are determined not to revisit when they meet again. 

Huddle highlights 
So close: Berkeley Prep lost its three district games by a combined 12 points, and each one came down to the final drive. It gives Ciao hope that his team can compete, but serves as proof that the Bucs need to work on finishing games to have a chance to come out of the district alive. 

Tough district: Ciao and Tampa Catholic coach Mike Gregory are in agreement that 3A-4 might be one of the toughest districts in the state. So for the Bucs, that means there’ll be no shortage of big, pressure-filled games. 

Quarterback’s growth: Quarterback Brad Mayes had a mediocre season last year statistically, but the senior led Team Tampa through 7-on-7s this offseason, and in the process, has grown a great deal, Ciao said. The biggest improvement? His leadership abilities, his coach says, which will only help the Bucs reverse their habit of falling at the final second.

The “big play guy:” In addition to Mayes, Ciao thinks wide receiver Jacob Mathis will be one to watch, especially for the kind of big plays that could help Berkeley Prep take a lead and hold onto it. 

Scary schedule: Ciao thinks his Bucs have the toughest schedule they’ve ever had — a fact that could either hold them back yet again or prepare them better than ever for a postseason run. 

Known quantities
QB Brad Mayes, Sr.: Mayes had an active offseason and could be one of the best quarterbacks in Tampa Bay this season. For that reason we expect an improvement from his 1,016 passing yards and 13 touchdowns in 2013. 

WR Jacob Mathis, Jr.: What’s a good quarterback without a good target? Mayes has got one in Mathis. The junior was the Bucs’ leading receiver last year with 330 yards, and he’s becoming one of the most sought after recruits in the area, with offers from Florida, Miami and Ohio State. 

OL/DL Bo Peek, Jr.: No. 76 on our HomeTeam 100, the 6-foot-2, 300-pound lineman is big, but quick. He had 24 tackles last season, 13 for loss, and has already picked up six offers, including Ole Miss and UCF.

LB Joe Schiano, Sr.: Schiano had 80 tackles, eight for loss, last season, and will be the Bucs’ leading returning tackler on a young defense. 

Up-and-comers
FB Nick Kavouklis, Sr.: Four Bucs had at least 100 yards rushing last season, and Kavouklis wasn’t one of them. But in the fullback’s final season with the Bucs, Ciao said he thinks Kavouklis will make an impact. 

DL Jon Turkel, Jr.: After graduating four of their five leading tacklers, the Bucs could have some work to do on defense. Jon Turkel, who had a good night in Berkeley’s spring win against Indian Rocks Christian, could be their answer.

Coach’s corner
“We didn’t get it done last year, and you hope that you get another chance to be in those situations and make plays. For us to be successful, we need to be perfect in every phase of the game.” — Ciao

Photo: Brad Mayes

Admiral Farragut

Coach: Ryan Hearn (second season, 5-4)

2013 record: 5-4

Class/district: 3A-5

Colors: Gold and navy

Stadium: Al Ross Field, 501 Park St. N., St. Petersburg

Playoff appearances: 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2011

Last appearance: Beat Evangelical Christian 48-24; beat Canterbury 38-24; beat Belle Glade Glades Day 42-16; lost 69-0 to North Florida Christian. 

Season schedule
Aug. 29vs. Victory Christian, 7

Sept. 5at Cardinal Mooney, 7

Sept. 12vs. Indian Rocks Christian, 7:30

Sept. 19vs. St. Petersburg Catholic, 7:30

Sept. 26vs. Carrollwood Day, 7:30

Oct. 3at Calvary Christian, 7:30

Oct. 10at Lake Highland Prep, 7:30

Oct. 17vs. Shorecrest, 7

Oct. 24vs. Clearwater Central Catholic, 7:30

Nov. 7vs. Warner Christian, 7

Mark your calendar
Admiral Farragut at Calvary Christian, Oct. 3: Assuming CCC is the class of the district, this game could be for the second playoff spot. Both schools have beefed up their rosters in the offseason, so expect this one to come down to the wire. AFA won 35-21 at home last season.

Huddle highlights
New attitude: Last year, Admiral Farragut was a team in transition. Coach Ryan Hearn took over after the spring game and the dismissal of coach Buster Davis. Hearn’s goal then was to keep the team together. This fall, the attitude is different. “There’s much more intensity,’’ senior quarterback Dalton Collins said. “We’re all hyped for the upcoming season.’’

Filling the void: The Blue Jackets lost promising linebacker Isadore Wood to IMG Academy. And their best offensive weapons, Cortavious Givens and Napoleon Maxwell, graduated. But Hearn is adamant that there is talent to replace them. Donnie Crum, Dontae McGee and Armando Diaz will step in at running back, and plenty of others are expected to fill in on defense.

Depth to spare: Hearn has 39 players to start fall practices. But as is the case every year at Admiral Farragut, he expects about 10 more players once boarding students show up prior to the first day of school.

Streaking: The Blue Jackets have not had a losing season since 2008. That includes a run to the Class 3A state championship game in 2011. All signs point to a sixth straight winning season.

In the trenches: The key for the Blue Jackets will be the offensive and defensive lines. Returners Aaron Rodriguez, Jacob Bettencourt and Carson Chiariello provide size and experience. With time to throw and holes to run through, AFA could be much improved. But those players will likely be asked to play both ways, which could take its toll.

Known quantities
QB Dalton Collins, Sr.: Collins is in his second year as a starter, and he could be one of the best AFA has ever had. He can run and throw, and has plenty of weapons at his disposal.

WR/DB Jestin Green, Sr: Already signed with Florida International, Green is a speedy slot receiver and solid defensive back. Look for him to be on the end of several Collins’ passes. “Last year we had about two or three receivers,” Green said. “This year we’ve got eight or nine. It’s going to make things easier to spread the ball around. I’m very excited about what we can do.’’

OL/DL Aaron Rodriguez, Sr.: At 6-foot-3, 326 pounds, Rodriguez is hard to miss. His best position is on the defensive line, where he is athletic enough to chase quarterbacks and make downfield tackles.

CB Caleb Dials, So.: A returner in the secondary, Dials provides stability. He has been with the varsity team since he was in eighth grade.

Up-and-comers
RB Donnie Crum, So.: Crum was stuck behind Givens and Maxwell last season. The speedy sophomore doesn’t have size (5-10, 178) but he does have speed to burn. He could be a 1,000-yard back.

WR Alex Gray, Jr.: A St. Petersburg Catholic transfer, Gray could be the fastest player on the team. He provides the Blue Jackets with a legitimate deep threat.

RB Dontae McGee, Sr.: The brother of hurdler Brittany McGee, Dontae was a state champion wrestler at 170 pounds for Brandon last year. He’ll be a bruising back for the Blue Jackets.

LB Cole Fagan, Jr.: A transfer who should fit right into the defense, the 6-foot-1, 215-pounder has the size and speed to make an immediate impact.

Coach’s corner
“We’ve just got to teach them to be mentally and physically tough. We’re going to work hard around here. We’re going to have two-, three-hour practices. It’s all going to make them better football players.’’ — Hearn

Calvary Christian

Coach: Todd Yoder (second season, 5-5)

Last season: 5-5

Class/district:3A-5

Colors: Gold and navy

Stadium: The Rock, 110 N. McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater

Playoff appearances: None

Season schedule
Aug. 29at Cambridge Christian (Skyway Park), 7:30

Sept. 5at St. John Neumann, 7

Sept. 12at Northside Christian, 7

Sept. 26vs. Seffner Christian, 7:30

Oct. 3vs. Admiral Farragut, 7:30

Oct. 10vs. Jupiter Christian, 7

Oct. 17at Clearwater Central Catholic, 7:30

Oct. 31at St. Petersburg Catholic, 7

Nov. 7at Indian Rocks Christian, 7:30

*The Warriors are looking for an opponent to fill the Oct. 24 spot. They originally were scheduled to play Imagine School, which folded its football program due to lack of participation.

Mark your calendar
Calvary Christian at Indian Rocks Christian, Nov. 7: This classic rivalry has been one-sided as of late, with IRC winning nine of the last 10 meetings. This could be a pivotal matchup for an improved Warriors squad as they try to get over the .500 mark. 

Huddle highlights
Sched doesn’t ease up: The Warriors limped into the offseason with a 1-4 record in the second half of the season. Calvary could be in store for that same fate again this year as three of its final four games come on the road against teams with winning records from last season. 

Talent infusion: A year ago, Jack Sheehan and Stephon Williams helped district rival St. Petersburg Catholic rout the Warriors 65-21. When the teams meet on Halloween, Sheehan and Williams will be wearing gold and navy instead of black and gold. The transfers should play a big role for the Warriors. Williams’ 736 yards and eight touchdowns will help fill the void left by Danny Giordano in the backfield. Sheehan, who threw for more than 1,000 yards on a run-heavy Barons squad, will likely start at quarterback for the Warriors.

Experience counts: The Calvary roster will be deep with veteran leadership and experience. The Warriors will go into Week 1 with at least 15 seniors on the sideline. That depth is filled with athletically gifted players, especially at the skill positions, who will be expected to play multiple different positions. 

Known quantities
QB Jeremy Wood, Sr.: Last season’s starter proved difficult for defenses to figure out. Four times in 2013, Wood threw for more than 150 yards and rushed for more than 50 on four other occasions. With the addition of Sheehan, Yoder is free to put Wood at a variety of positions on offense. Expect to see the senior get time at receiver, running back and under center.

TE/DE Wesley Vollmer, Sr.: At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Vollmer provides more than just size up front. He led the team in receiving yards (395) and was tied for first with three touchdown grabs. On defense, Vollmer will add depth to a unit full of veterans. His 52 total tackles last season were third most on the team. 

Up-and-comer
WR Graham Hoffman, So.: Hoffman played in all 10 games as a freshman, and his two touchdown catches were third most among Calvary receivers. He will add depth to an offense filled with impact players. 

Coach’s corner
“The nice thing about this group of seniors is that they’ve been playing since they were sophomores. They just played as sophomores, they started when they were juniors and now this is their time to show everybody what they’ve got.” — Yoder

Tampa Catholic

Coach: Mike Gregory (second season, 10-3)

Last season: 10-3

Class: 3A-4

Colors: Green and white 

Stadium: Unnamed, 4630 N. Rome Ave., Tampa

Playoff appearances: 1971, 1976, 1990, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013 

Last appearance: Beat Melbourne Holy Trinity 52-14; beat Melbourne Central Catholic 45-10; lost 20-11 to Jacksonville Trinity Christian. 

Season schedule
Aug. 29at Madison County, 7:30

Sept. 5at Clearwater Central Catholic, 7:30

Sept. 12vs. Tarpon Springs, 7

Sept. 19at Fort Meade, 7:30

Sept. 26vs. Cardinal Mooney, 7

Oct. 3vs. Frostproof, 7

Oct. 17vs. Berkeley Prep, 7

Oct. 24at Lakeland Christian, 7:30

Oct. 31at Indian Rocks Christian, 7:30

Nov. 7vs. Jesuit, 7

Mark your calendar 
Tampa Catholic vs. Jesuit, Nov. 7: The Tigers have won the last 14 matchups — including last year’s 13-9 defensive standoff — but it’s still arguably the best rivalry in town. Jesuit and Tampa Catholic have the ingredients for successful seasons, but one of these teams will finish its campaign with a loss. The Crusaders are hoping that, for the first time in more than a decade, it won’t be them.

Huddle highlights 
Quarterback battle: When coach Mike Gregory searched for a replacement for last year’s quarterback, Kyle Ploucher, he came up with not one contender, but two. The second-year coach said he’s not yet sure who will be the main starter — Kevin Knox is a pocket passer, he says, while Tyler Sims is more of a mobile, dual-threat guy — but he is certain of the fact that the Crusaders will take advantage of both guys’ talents. 

Close, but not close enough: Last year Tampa Catholic’s season ended with a tearful huddle on its home field after a state semifinal loss to eventual champion Jacksonville Trinity Christian. Will the Crusaders use that playoff experience to make another state title run?

A new weapon: In possibly the biggest offseason transfer in the Tampa Bay area, Nate Craig, an Auburn commit and one of the nation’s top 2016 recruits, took his talents from Pasco High to Tampa Catholic. With that kind of help on the offensive side of the ball, the Crusaders should be in good shape. 

Replacing talent: Craig’s transfer certainly helped replenish a Crusader team that graduated lots of Division I talent. Justin Motlow and Corey Martinez (both at Florida State), Tre Watson (Illinois) and T.J. Harrell (Michigan State) are all gone, but Gregory said he’s confident in the ability of their replacements. 

Receivers galore: The Crusaders may have two passers, but they’ve got even more weapons with whom they can connect. In addition to Craig, Gregory expects many other receivers — Jake Romp, Darius Corbett, Jalen Dickenson, just to name a few — to make a big impact.

Known quantities
WR Nate Craig, Jr.: At No. 6 in ESPN’s 2016 top 300, Craig might be new to the Crusaders, but he’ll likely be the focus of every opponent’s attention. Craig recorded 481 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns for Pasco last year, and Gregory expects him to be a big force for his new team.

DL Malik Barrow, Jr.: Gregory says he feels good about his defensive line, and Barrow is a big reason why. Barrow, No. 25 in our HomeTeam 100 and owner of more than a dozen college offers, racked up 52 tackles last season, nine for loss.

LB Cody Endris, Sr.: A three-year starter for the Crusaders, Endris “makes the defense go,” Gregory says. This go-around he’ll have even more on his plate, having to take the place of Watson as the leader of the linebacker corp.

RB Ben Reed, Sr.: The Crusaders graduated their two leading rushers from last season, but Reed, who recorded 358 yards and three touchdowns in nine games, could do a lot more now that he won’t be sharing the carries as much.

Up-and-comers
DB/WR Bentlee Sanders, So.: Sanders was a starter at defensive back last season as a freshman, also helping out on kick and punt returns. Gregory expects his role to be greatly expanded this season, making big plays on the offensive side of the ball.

QB Kevin Knox, So.: One of two guys competing for the starting job, Knox is great in the pocket, Gregory said, and has an outstanding arm. With a slew of wide receivers with which to work, Knox will be given ample opportunity to show off that skill.

QB Tyler Sims, Jr.: Sims also has a chance to be the starting quarterback and is an athletic kid Gregory says sees the field extremely well. Unlike Knox, Sims will likely make his mark with his feet rather than his arm. 

OL Calvin Wolfe, So.: At 6-foot-3, 260 pounds, Wolfe could have a breakout year, Gregory said. He’ll help anchor an offensive line that will try to replace the hole left by FSU signee Corey Martinez. 

WR/DB Jalen Dickenson, Jr.: Used mostly as a role player last year, Dickenson — who recorded more than 100 rushing yards — could be one of Knox or Sims’ main targets while helping share the load in the run game. 

Coach’s corner
“Having a guy like Justin Motlow, who was very productive for us for two and a half years, losing him, and Nate kind of fills that void. Nate fills voids in other ways, too. He’s just a kid you’ve got to find a way to get the ball in his hands. He can be a game changer.” — Gregory

Clearwater Central Catholic

Coach: John Davis (fifth season back, 13th overall at CCC, 89-47; 21st overall, 155-71)

Last season: 11-3

Class/district:3A-5

Colors: Gold and scarlet

Stadium: Marauder Stadium, 2750 Haines Bayshore Road, Clearwater

Playoff appearances: 1976, 1978, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2011, 2012, 2013 

Last appearance: Beat Fort Myers Bishop Verot 47-0; beat St. Petersburg Catholic 49-16; beat Miami Westminster Christian 7-0; lost 34-7 to Jacksonville Trinity Christian.

Season schedule
|Aug. 29vs. Lely, 7:30

Sept. 5vs. Tampa Catholic, 7:30

Sept. 12at Jesuit, 7:30

Sept. 26at Trinity Catholic, 7

Oct. 3at St. Petersburg Catholic, 7

Oct. 10vs. University Christian, 7:30

Oct. 17vs. Calvary Christian, 7:30

Oct. 24at Admiral Farragut, 7:30

Oct. 31vs. IMG, 7:30

Nov. 7at Anclote, 7:30

Mark your calendar
Clearwater Central Catholic at Admiral Farragut, Oct. 24: This is the district finale for both teams and a matchup that could ultimately decide the champion and runnerup. The Marauders, with lots of weapons on offense, are favored to repeat. The Blue Jackets, based on the potential of their young talent, could pose the biggest threat. Last year, CCC won in a blowout, 44-3. The key will be how much AFA’s defense has improved. The Blue Jackets allowed 334 yards rushing in last year’s rout. Other intriguing games for the Marauders include home games against Tampa Catholic (Sept. 5) and IMG (Oct. 31). CCC lost both games in overtime on the road last year.

Huddle highlight
State of euphoria: Last season, Clearwater Central Catholic made its first state championship game appearance, losing to Jacksonville Trinity Christian 34-7 in the Class 3A final. Now the goal is to make it back — realistic considering what the Marauders have back on offense. The region also is fairly manageable.

Daunting schedule: If CCC makes it back to the state final, it will be prepared. Seven of the 10 regular-season games are against teams that made the playoffs in 2013, including the first six. Also on the schedule are games against IMG, an independent which beat defending state champion Trinity Christian, and district games against Admiral Farragut and Calvary Christian, both of which have improved enough to contend for a playoff spot.

Plenty of points: With nearly everyone back on offense, CCC should improve upon the 32 points a game it averaged last season. The only thing that could change is how the Marauders go about scoring. For the past few years, the Marauders have relied on a productive ground game. The top three running backs, though, graduated. Now the depth is at receiver with four of the top five returning. The quarterback situation also is more stable with Jeff Smith entrenched as the starter. He looked good in the spring, throwing for 193 yards against Immokalee. The offensive line is solid with four returning starters.

Transitional defense: The defense has been the backbone of the program the past two seasons, allowing an average of nine points per game during that span. This year, the Marauders will have some growing pains after losing eight starters, including the entire front seven. The secondary has the experience with three returning starters; Jared Brown, Demetri Royer and JT Steele. As for the front seven, coach John Davis said he would like to rotate in a lot of guys in order to keep them fresh and allow them to play fast. 

Injury bug: Davis said one of the keys to the season is staying healthy. That hasn’t been the case so far with receiver CJ Cotman missing two weeks of practice with a separated shoulder, and Will Spelman out with a broken collarbone. 

Known quantities
OL Billy Atterbury, Sr.: The three-star recruit is a mauler in the run game and agile enough to protect fleet-footed quarterback Jeff Smith on passing situations. More importantly, he is the leader on a veteran line that should be one of the team’s strengths. 

WR/DB CJ Cotman, So.: An electrifying all-purpose threat, Cotman impressed FSU coaches with his performance at a camp this summer. Because of his playmaking abilities, Cotman will have a bigger role on offense as a receiver and ball carrier. 

TE/LB Brandon Junk, Sr.: Versatile offensive player can line up at either fullback or tight end. He’ll also be counted on to lead a inexperienced linebacking corps.

RB/DB Demetri Royer, Sr.: His biggest contributions will come as a defensive back. He could get the ball on offense in certain situations, though the coaching could limit his touches in order to keep him healthy, something that’s been tough to avoid the past two years.

QB Jeff Smith, Sr.: The Boston College commit took over as the full-time starter midway through last season and led the Marauders to the 3A state title game. The dual-threat quarterback, who threw for 1,366 yards and ran for 611, should put even bigger numbers in an offense that returns nine starters.

Up-and comers
WR/DB Jacobi Adderley, Sr.: Came on as dependable target down the stretch and had two touchdown receptions in the spring game against Immokalee.

WR/DB John Brunner, Sr.: After catching 16 passes for 257 yards last season, Brunner is expected to have bigger numbers in what should be a more wide open offense.

WR/DB Jared Brown, Sr.: Tied for second on the team in interceptions last season with three. He’ll start at safety and could see some time at receiver.

FB/LB John Dougherty, Sr.: Though he had just 12 tackles last season, Dougherty will put up better numbers as a starting linebacker. He’ll also carry the ball occasionally as a fullback.

OL Richie Kallay, Sr.: Davis raves about Kallay, who will team with Atterbury to be the cornerstones of a solid offensive line.

K/P Yanni Ramos, Sr.: He currently is ranked as the 30th best kicker in the 2015 class by Kohl’s Kicking Camps. Last season, he was 43 of 44 on PATs and 6-of-12 on FGs. 

WR/DB JT Steele, Sr.: The two-way player is capable of producing on offense (368 rushing yards, 150 receiving) but will be counted on more as a cornerback.

Coach’s corner
“We have some pieces in place on offense, and so far we’ve been better than I expected us to be on defense. We just can’t have a lot of injuries because we’re thin in a few spots, especially in backup offensive linemen.” — Davis

St. Petersburg Catholic

Coach: Dave Cleppe (first season)

2013 record: 8-4

Class/district: 3A-5

Colors: Black and gold

Stadium: Joe Paul Stadium 6333 9th Ave. N., St. Petersburg

Playoff appearances: 1977, 1991, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2013

Last appearance: Beat Cardinal Mooney 35-34; lost 49-16 to Clearwater Central Catholic. 

Season schedule
Aug. 29vs. Indian Rocks Christian, 7

Sept. 5at Pine Ridge, 7

Sept. 12at Melbourne Central Catholic, 7

Sept. 19at Admiral Farragut, 7:30

Oct. 3vs. Clearwater Central Catholic, 7

Oct. 10at Cardinal Mooney, 7

Oct. 17vs. Bishop Verot, 7

Oct. 24vs. JAX Episcopal, 7

Oct. 31vs. Calvary Christian, 7

Nov. 7vs. Northside Christian, 7

Mark your calendar
Clearwater Central Catholic at St. Petersburg Catholic, Oct. 3: The Barons’ nemesis last season was CCC. They lost both meetings, including the region final 49-16. SPC will see if it’s made any progress against the defending district champs.

Huddle highlights
New regime: This is a new Barons team in many ways. Aside from coach Dave Cleppe taking over for Steve Dudley, offensive lineman Reilly Gibbons is gone to Stanford. His (not so) little brother, Dillan, transferred to Northside Christian. Running backs Tony Jones (IMG Academy),  Alex Gray (Admiral Farragut) and Stephon Williams (Calvary Christian) also moved on. And running back Jacquan Fuller is now at Indian Rocks Christian. Jordan Leston takes over at quarterback for Jack Sheehan, who also transferred to Calvary Christian. Finding a running back is a top priority in the preseason.

Young squad: There are only three seniors on the SPC roster: Leston, center/defensive end Conor Hay and kicker/wide receiver/safety Garrett Vallario. Cleppe said the freshman class is biggest, with 14 players.

Leston time: Leston is a Clearwater/East Lake transfer who is just looking for some playing time. He’s going to get all he wants his senior season. He will play quarterback, linebacker and punter. “It’s time for me to finally get my chance and prove to everyone what I can do,’’ Leston said. “I’ve been working out a lot during the offseason to prepare for this year. I know I’m going to be on the field a lot so I don’t want to wear out.’’

Remaining optimistic: Despite the transfers and graduation of some top players, Cleppe believes his team will be competitive. The Barons won their spring game 27-12 over Avon Park (although Fuller was the main back), and Cleppe said his skill players did well in summer 7-on-7 games. “We took Armwood down to the last play,’’ Cleppe said. “Yes, I’m very excited about what we can do.”

Known quantities
QB Jordan Leston, Sr.: All that’s known about the left-handed Leston is that he is powerfully built (6-2, 205), and can run and throw (think mini-Tim Tebow). He hasn’t had a chance to start until this season, but looked impressive in the spring.

C/DE Conor Hay, Sr.: Hay provides size (245 pounds) on a line without much. Hay should also give the Barons some leadership.

K/WR/S Garrett Vallario, Sr.: Vallario has been the kicker since his freshman year. Now he will catch passes and play defense in his first year with an increased role.

DL/OL Ben Pruett, Jr.: Pruett played last year on a very good offensive line. He spent the summer at college camps and came into the preseason in good shape.

DE Shea Donnelly, Jr.: Another sophomore who saw playing time last season, Donnelly could also be the backup quarterback.

Up-and-comers
WR Emmanuel Eke, Jr.: Cleppe said Eke was a standout during summer 7-on-7 games. With a shortage of offensive weapons, Eke could become a favorite target. 

DB/WR Matt Castro, So.: Cleppe said Castro caught his eye during the spring and has been impressive in preseason as well.

DB Brock McSherry, So.: A new player who Cleppe said loves to play physical. 

Coach’s corner
“We don’t have that big senior class, but we do have a lot of young players who are excited to play. They’re all going to get their chance to show what they can do.” — Cleppe

St. Petersburg's Blake Dyer has committed to play golf at the University of Florida. Dyer, the Times' Pinellas golfer of the year as a junior, becomes a second generation Gators golfer. His father, Kevin, also played at Florida.

Dyer won the 3A-12 district tournament after shooting a 5-under, 66 at Seminole Lake CC. He also shot a 4-under, 32 at Feather Sound in the final PCAC match of the season.

Dyer chose Florida over Mississippi, Rice and South Florida. He will join former Clearwater Central Catholic golfer Ryan Orr as local players at Florida.

Fall football practices for Tampa Bay football teams officially kicked off this week. We’re rolling out daily district previews for all 78 varsity teams in the area. Today we look at a mostly all-Hernando and Pasco district.

Overview

South Sumter rolled through the district last year, scoring 34, 51, 63, 69 and 38 points (twice) in its victories. Hernando came closest to slowing the Raiders, losing by 20. Will that change in 2014? Probably not, though Pasco should give South Sumter a game. If the Pirates can’t upset the Raiders, it will have to fight off Hernando, Nature Coast and Zephyrhills for the other playoff spot. The Pirates sneaked by the Leopards and Zephyrhills by a touchdown each, and lost to the Sharks, so the district should be competitive. Weeki Wachee and Central are hoping for an improvement, the Bears especially after an 0-10 season.

The favorite

South Sumter (12-2 last season) lost its starting quarterback (transfer), but who needs to throw the ball when you return four starters on the offensive line — and two running backs in Anderson Faulk and James Taylor who combined for more than 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. The Raiders are also strong on defense, with 6-foot-6 and 6-3 bookends on the defensive line and 5-11, 283-pound Montel Presley in between at tackle.

Next in line

Pasco traveled a bumpy road to the playoffs last year after dismissing its starting quarterback and losing some key players to injuries. But with smoother sailing in 2014, the Pirates should take a big step back to their old ways. There’s still questions to answer at quarterback and running back, but the defense is top-notch and makes them a playoff contender. Zephyrhills may disagree. The Bulldogs have plenty of skills position players, but need to beef up the lines and the defense in order to make a charge. And they’ll have to beat Pasco on the road, in all likelihood, to slip past. We’ll have to see it to believe it.

Sleepers

Bill Vonada takes over at Hernando, but he may need a year or two to get the Leopards headed in the right direction again (but don’t mention the word rebuilding around him). They lost virtually every yard of rushing offense to graduation and transfer, though quarterback Tyler Kline has shown some potential and might keep them around in the playoff race. Nature Coast has the district’s top offensive line prospect, Christian Pellage, blocking for talented running back DeShawn Smith (719 yards), with Dylan Miller leading the way on defense. The Sharks beat Pasco last year and the Leopards only lost 7-0, so they could be a threat.

Important numbers

3 New coaches in the district — Central’s Chris Sands, Hernando’s Bill Vonada (first year with the Leopards), Nature Coast’s Justin Worden

7 Straight seasons Pasco has made the playoffs

7 Straight seasons Zephyrhills has missed the playoffs

Players to watch

DL/TE Bowman Archibald, Sr., Pasco: The University of Miami commitment and No. 10 player in the HomeTeam 100 should wreak havoc from the defensive line. And he can also play linebacker, while his soft hands, size (6-6, 250) and speed make him a top receiving target as well. Coach Tom McHugh called him the “new Jimmy Graham.”

LB/DL Steven Delaine, Sr., Hernando: With 55 total tackles and nine for a loss a year ago, Delaine is emerging as a leader of the defensive unit. Vonada calls him the voice and spirit of the defense.

ATH Jaylen Pickett, Sr., Zephyrhills: At No. 44 in our HomeTeam 100, Pickett came up big for the Bulldogs last year, and coach Reggie Roberts expects him to do the same in 2014. As a junior, he recorded 12 touchdowns and 808 rushing yards while adding 75 receiving yards and 36 tackles on defense. 

RB/DB DeShawn Smith, Jr., Nature Coast: The Sharks’ leading rusher last season (719 yards, nine touchdowns) is poised for an even bigger performance this year. He plays well in big games, as evidenced by his three touchdowns against Pasco last season.

RB Devante Smith, So., Central: Expectations are high for Smith, a 5-foot-11, 180-pound bruiser who also runs a 4.4-second 40. “He could be one of the top two players in (Hernando) county,” Sands said. He gave fans a taste of it last season against Pasco with 16 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns.

OL Brice Spaulding, Sr., Weeki Wachee: Spaulding was the starter at center last season, and with Marcus Applefield now suiting up for Rutgers, the senior will be the anchor of Weeki Wachee’s offensive line. As a three-year starter, he and senior David Hokanson will help bring along the younger linemen. He’ll guide a line that coach Mark Lee says is the deepest he’s had since coming to Weeki Wachee. 

Mark your calendar

Nature Coast vs. Pasco, Sept. 26: This was one of the more entertaining games of 2013 with Nature Coast pulling out a 29-28 victory on Smith’s winning 50-yard run in the fourth quarter. Pasco is sure to be a bit testy after relinquishing a late lead in last year’s game. And in such a crowded district race, this could decide either’s playoff fate early in the season.

Returning district leaders

Rushing yards: South Sumter’s Anderson Faulk, 1,100

Rushing TDs: Faulk, 21

Passing yards: Pasco’s Grant Starling, 573

Passing TDs: Starling, 10

Receiving yards: Weeki Wachee’s Dayonta Patterson, 344

Receiving TDs: Pasco’s Bowman Archibald, 2

Tackles: Nature Coast’s Dylan Miller, 114

Sacks: Zephyrhills’ Lorine Parker, 6

Interceptions: Weeki’s Patterson, Nature Coast’s Joseph Leonard and Zephyrhills’ Antwione Sims, 2

Predicted order of finish
From an anonymous coach in the district 

2. Pasco

3. Zephyrhills

4. Nature Coast Tech

5. Hernando

6. Weeki Wachee

7. Central

Final word

“One thing we have to develop as a program is mental toughness. Pushing through the wall when things get tough out there on the field is our biggest issue. Last year, the players fizzled downward toward the end of the game, and we want them to push through that.” — Sands

Staff writers Kelly Parsons and Bob Putnam, and correspondents Derek J. LaRiviere and Andy Warrener contributed to this report. 

Coach: Chris Sands (first season)

Last season: 0-10

Class/district: 5A-6

Colors: Blue and silver

Stadium: Bears Den, 14075 Ken Austin Parkway, Brooksville

Playoff appearances: 1995, 1996, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2006

Last appearance: Lost 21-20 to Daytona Beach Seabreeze.

Season schedule

Aug. 29at Hudson, 7:30

Sept. 5at The Villages, 7:30

Sept. 12vs. Poinciana, 7:30

Sept. 19vs. Nature Coast, 7:30

Sept. 26at South Sumter,  7:30

Oct. 3at Weeki Wachee, 7:30

Oct. 10vs. Springstead, 7:30

Oct. 17at Zephyrhills, 7:30

Oct. 24vs. Pasco, 7:30

Mark your calendar

Central at Weeki Wachee, Oct. 3: The optimism of the Central coaching staff shows that the Bears are expecting to win multiple games, which would surpass their seasonhigh at any point over the past five years. Upstart Weeki Wachee has defeated Central in each of their first two meetings, and the players have to be hungry to topple the Hornets.

Huddle highlights

The numbers game: After starting the season with only 30 players last year, Central has 55 on the current roster. Sands and his staff have attracted hungry, young players with their positive attitudes. Transfers have been leaving the Bears program to go to Nature Coast, Springstead and Hernando for years, but the tide has seemingly turned as the new regime has garnered a handful of incoming transfers.

Running down a dream: Associate head coach Jeff Woods has gained a reputation as one of the best conditioning coaches in the country after stints in the role with Southern Methodist, Florida State, Georgia Tech and Florida A&M. Endurance and mental toughness are hallmarks of Sands’ philosophy.

Talent-laden: Before taking the position, Sands explained that he watched film on his potential new team. He was impressed by the amount of raw talent he saw. As a former standout offensive lineman at Florida A&M, he knows what it takes to play at the collegiate level, and he believes that there are multiple Central athletes that will make the leap.

Bumpy road: While being competitive in district play is always a goal, some districts don’t offer the same kind of potential for success as others. With opponents like Pasco, Zephyrhills, Nature Coast, Hernando and South Sumter primed for the postseason, up-and-coming teams need confidence, momentum and a little bit of luck to make big strides.

Known quantities

LB John Templar, Sr.: Even at 5-foot-10, 180 pounds, Templar is getting college interest, which shows just how energetic and intense he is when playing the linebacker position. He blocked an extra point and was instrumental on a goal-line stand during the spring game against Tavares. Expect his 55 tackles as a junior to increase.

LB Chris Hernandez, Sr.: With 126 tackles last season, Hernandez was all over the field at middle linebacker, putting up the highest tackle total for a Central defensive player in more than a decade. Starting since he was a freshman, he has a great football IQ and will undoubtedly serve as the leader.

QB Cody Brooks, Sr.: With almost 200 yards through the air and more than 100 on the ground, Brooks cemented his role as the team’s starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Brooks has held the role before, but injuries have derailed his progress under center. Sands believes Brooks is the right man to lead his balanced offense.

C Mike Helfand, Sr.: As the bread and butter of Sands’ background, the offensive line needed a leader that the coach could count on. Despite playing primarily defensive line during his previous prep experience, Helfand’s leadership and intelligence stood out immediately to the coaching staff, and he is expected to be the anchor at 6-foot-1, 245 pounds.

Up-and-comers

RB Devante Smith, So.: Expectations are high for Smith, a 5-foot-11, 180-pound bruiser that also runs a 4.4-second 40. “He could be one of the top two players in the county,” Sands said. He gave fans a taste of it last season against Pasco with 16 carries for 105 yards and two touchdowns.

WR/DB Breon Wyatt, Sr.: Solely a basketball player for much of his high school career, Wyatt went out for football for the first time last spring and immediately made an impression. In the spring game, he had two receptions for 58 yards and a touchdown, while also coming down with an interception on defense. His ball skills are the best on the team.

DT Andre Timmons, So.: A Nature Coast transfer, Timmons will serve as the run-stopping tackle in the middle of the defensive line. At 6-foot, 285 pounds, he is a load but also is equipped with good feet and good hands. He should make an impact opening up things for the linebackers and defensive ends around him.

Coach’s corner

“One thing we have to develop as a program is mental toughness. Pushing through the wall when things get tough out there on the field is our biggest issue. Last year, the players fizzled downward toward the end of the game, and we want them to push through that.” — Sands

Hernando

Coach: Bill Vonada (first season; 16th overall,79-75)

Last season: 3-7

Class/district: 5A-6

Colors: Purple and gold

Stadium: Tom Fisher Stadium, 200 E. Kelly St., Brooksville

Playoff appearances: 1967, 1981, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2002, 2005, 2010, 2011

Last appearance: Lost 60-3 to Gainesville.

Season schedule

Aug. 29at Jacksonville Bolles, 7:30 

Sept. 5at Jacksonville Bishop Kenny, 7 

Sept. 12vs. Citrus, 7:30 

Sept. 19vs. Weeki Wachee, 7:30 

Oct. 3at Nature Coast, 7:30 

Oct. 10vs. South Sumter, 7:30 

Oct. 17at Pasco, 7:30 

Oct. 24vs. Zephyrhills, 7:30 

Oct. 31at Central, 7:30 

Nov. 7vs. Springstead, 7:30

Mark your calendar

Veteran coach Bill Vonada embarks on his debut season with Hernando in what a lot of folks at Hernando are calling a rebuilding year. Vonada isn’t hearing it. “We’re worried about being the best football team we can be today,” Vonada said. “Tomorrow we’ll worry about being the best football team we can be tomorrow.” Right now, Vonada and staff are “more focused on Hernando” than the schedule. That being said, the Leopards have a brutal schedule (vs. six playoff teams from last season), the toughest Vonada says he has had in his entire high school coaching career. Watch for the four-game stretch starting Oct. 3 against district contenders Nature Coast, South Sumter, Pasco and Zephyrhills. 

Huddle highlights

Vonada era: After taking a year off last season, Vonada is back in the saddle for the Leopards. His coaching staff stayed behind at Springstead, but former Central head coach Mike Einspahr comes over to help Vonada with the defense. 

Not all that familiar territory: You would think after coaching on the North Suncoast for years, Vonada would be familiar with the teams in his new 5A-6 district but not so, not so. Vonada hasn’t seen Pasco since 2006, only saw Weeki Wachee in spring, Zephyrhills a few coaches ago and hasn’t been around Citrus since 2003. There are only two coaches on Hernando’s schedule that Vonada has faced in the past.  

Believe in the scheme but adapt to the personnel: Vonada will bring a similar style of play from Springstead, but he will be flexible to the talent he has on the field. “We’d love to play with two tight ends but if you don’t have it, you don’t run it,” Vonada said. 

Mr. Hyde and well, Mr. Hyde: Vonada is also the youth director at the local church. He says he’s basically the same person whether he’s the youth director or the head football coach, just, “with a little more intensity” as the football coach. 

Known quantities

LB/DL Steven Delaine, Sr.: With 55 total tackles and nine for a loss a year ago, Delaine is emerging as a leader of the defensive unit. Vonada calls him the voice and spirit of the defense.

QB Tyler Kline, Sr.: Kline played in all 10 games from last year. His numbers were less than impressive, but 2014 is a new year and Vonada said that Kline has been rapidly improving. Vonada is already bending his two-back offense to the personnel he has and Kline seems to be making the transition.

DB/LB Dalton Coleman, Sr.: Coleman is the backup quarterback, but will be most frequently used on defense. Vonada likes Coleman’s attitude and ethic, and very much likes him as a change of pace at quarterback.

OLs Rylee Cheek, Jr. and Todd Flannery, Sr.: This tandem will make up the core of Hernando’s run-heavy attack. Cheek goes 6-4, 285 and Flannery about 6-0, 225.

WR/RB Derrell Holland, Sr.: Holland will line up in the slot and in the backfield. Vonada likes his elusiveness and says he is picking up the new offense quickly.

Up-and-comers

WR/DB Mark Wilson, Sr.: A converted basketball player, Wilson is out for the football team for the first time in his high school career. Vonada is excited because of Wilson’s athleticism. Wilson has set the standard on Hernando’s conditioning tests. Vonada also likes Wilson’s cool confidence and think he’ll develop into a playmaker.

RB/LBs D’Angelo Fagin, Sr. and Brad Ellis, So.: Vonada feels very good about these comparable characters and thinks they’re capable at either position.

LB/DB Brock Buchanan, Jr.: A hybrid defensive player, Buchanan should move between the two positions as needed. Vonada says Buchanan is one of those players who will do whatever you ask of him.

DL/TE Tyson Libengood, Jr.: With maybe the best tale of the tape on the team, Libengood goes 6-2, 225. Libengood only played in three games for Hernando a year ago but Vonada believes he has a tremendous upside, saying, “If this young man gets it figured out, you’re going to remember his name”.

Coach’s corner

Vonada is faced with what many would consider a rebuilding year at Hernando. Vonada is having none of it, yet he’s realistic about the situation. “Imagine you’re building a house on the Gulf and you’re putting down a strong foundation, only you see there’s a hurricane headed your way. You’re going to build with a sense of urgency.”

Nature Coast 

Coach: Justin Worden (first season)

Last season: 4-6 

Class/district: 5A-6

Colors: Blue and black

Stadium: The Shark Tank, 4057 California St., Brooksville

Playoff appearances: 2006, 2007, 2009

Last appearance: Lost 34-22 at Citra North Marion

Season schedule 

Aug. 29vs. Crystal River, 7:30

Sept. 12at Springstead, 7:30

Sept. 19at Central, 7:30

Sept. 26vs. Pasco, 7:30

Oct. 3vs. Hernando High, 7:30

Oct. 10at Zephyrhills, 7:30

Oct. 17at  South Sumter, 7:30

Oct. 24vs. Forest, 7:30

Oct. 31vs. Weeki Wachee, 7:30 Nov. 7at Lake Weir, 7:30

Mark your calendar

Nature Coast vs. Pasco, Sept. 26: This was one of the more entertaining games of 2013 with Nature Coast pulling out a 29-28 victory on DeShawn Smith’s winning 50-yard run in the fourth quarter. Pasco is sure to be a bit testy after relinquishing a late lead in last year’s game. And in such a crowded district race, this could decide either’s playoff fate early in the season.

Huddle highlights

New direction: In January, Nature Coast hired former Orlando Oak Ridge defensive coordinator Justin Worden to replace Charles Liggett, who resigned after three seasons. Worden installed a new up-tempo attack and has a more aggressive defense. There were some positive results in the spring with the Sharks splitting their jamboree halves, beating Titusville Astronaut 7-0 and losing to Daytona Seabreeze 14-6. 

Rough stretch: From Sept. 26 through Oct. 17, Nature Coast plays the four district opponents —  Pasco, Hernando, Zephyrhills and South Sumter —  that will be in the mix for a playoff spot. The win against Pasco was the Sharks’ only one against those four last season as they quickly fell out of the postseason picture. 

Moving the ball: In the spring, Worden put most of the emphasis on offense. The biggest task was finding a replacement for quarterback Ryan Quigley, who combined for 891 yards rushing and throwing last year and is now at Warner. Jamison Carnegie won the job after playing well in the spring. He should put the ball in the air more to create some balance and prevent opponents from keying on running back DeShawn Smith.

Known quantities

TE/LB Sedrick Burkes, Sr.: Though he was limited last season, Burkes switched to a hybrid linebacker position this spring and was in the backfield on nearly every play.

TE/DB Le’Shaun Gray, Sr.: The leader in the secondary finished with 61 tackles and an interception last season. 

OL/DT Christian Pellage, Sr.: The three-star recruit, who has already committed to South Carolina, is quick, something you don’t see too often from someone who is 6 feet 7 and weighs 290.

RB/DB DeShawn Smith, Jr.: The Sharks’ leading rusher last season (719 yards, nine touchdowns) is poised for an even bigger performance this year. He plays well in big games, as evidenced by his three touchdowns against Pasco last season.

Up-and-comers

QB/SS Jamison Carnegie, Jr.: Worden was impressed with the quarterback’s mobility in the spring. Despite playing in both halves of the jamboree, Carnegie avoided being sacked.

DL Trevor Gamble, So.: The speed rusher wreaked havoc in the spring with two sacks, one coming with such impact that it knocked the Seabreeze quarterback out with a broken leg.

WR/DB Brian Haygood, So.: Though he has just six receptions last season, Haygood looked good in the spring and should put up better numbers in a more wide-open offense. 

Coach’s corner

“A lot of teams in the district improved so we have our work cut out for us. But the spring was a big confidence booster for us. It let us know we can do some things and the guys are starting to have more trust in one another.” —  Worden