Rick Harrington
Sports Correspondent
VERDIGRIS —
After an exciting playoff run that ended in the 2009 Class 2A quarterfinals, the Verdigris Cardinals will have a new look.
That reloaded look is a result of the graduation of 14-seniors which included quarterback Kevin Stout and lineman Cohle Fowler, now at Dartmouth. Stout rushed for over 1200 yards and 16-touchdowns for an explosive offense that averaged nearly 28-points per game.
Only 12-players remain in the junior and senior classes for a Cardinal squad that makes the jump to Class 3A this season.
Looking to replace Stout will be Tyler Dorsey (6-0, 185, Jr.) and Kyle Parnell (5-10, 172, Sr.) who both saw limited action at quarterback a year ago.
Should the nod at quarterback go to Dorsey, look for Parnell to move to wide receiver where he averaged 18.9 yards per reception one year ago.
Cass Fowler (6-0, 195, Sr.) will give either quarterback a dependable presence at tight end.
From the Multiple-I formation, a strong running game will be the focal point for Verdigris. Handling the bulk of the carries will be Bryce Lindsey (5-10, 169, Jr.) and Tanner Smith (5-10, 195, So.). J.D. Hanslovan (5-9, 180, So.) possesses excellent speed and adds depth in the backfield.
Finding someone to replace Brandon Melton at defensive end will be a defensive key in 2010.
Melton lead the team in tackles and sacks one year ago on a defense that surrendered just over 12-points per contest.
Look for Ryan Moss (6-3, 300, Sr.) to be a real playmaker in the middle of the defensive line where he will be joined by Dalton Inman (6-2, 235, So.) who posted 32-tackles and two sacks as a freshman.
“I think Moss is the best nose guard in the state and is talented enough to play at the major-college level,” said Cardinal coach Dan Nickles.
Providing a dependable, talented duo at linebacker will be Leonard Brockup (6-0, 210, So.) and Matt Cegielski (6-1,180, So.).
The youthful Cardinals open the season at home on Sept. 3 before back-to-back road trips to Dewey on Sept. 10 and Keys on Sept. 17.
