[charlie22]

I agree, there are some questions about the defense, specifically the middle of the defense (nose, inside lbs, strong safety) and who replaces New at corner. LexCath will be loaded on offense, which will pose aa huge threat if and when they meet up.

With that being said, Highlands will have the depth to figure all their issues out in the season without missing too much of a beat.

My strong guess is that it will be Streeter who replaces New. Streeter, if you recall, started when New was injured last year. Actually did an extremely good job, particularly when you consider he played RB the prior season so he had a big learning curve. He improved dramatically between the scrimmage against Trinity and the last game of the year. With Murray and Streeter, the cornerback position will be very solid. Schutte I believe will be the strong safety. Not the overall athlete that Drake Bruns was, but I expect Schutte to perform very well. 3 of the 5 LBers will likely be Schroeder, Wrobleski and Poston. All three are very solid. Don't know who the other two will be. Replacing Devon Bruns will be a huge job at the NG position. He was the best player on Highlands defense last year in my opinion. Hope and Schultz will do a great job at two of the D linemen spots. Don't know who will fill the third. Could be some small, extremely quick kid, ala Dierig of the 09 team. I really expect the Birds D to be very good again next year.

LexCath will be the competition to make it to state. Glad we will be playing them at Highlands barring an upset along the way.