[BADCAT74]

I agree with you that it is too early to predict the success of this team. It will be very difficult to replace Withrow, Hunter, and Whetsel. Ashland will lack height at receiver, will lose the invaluable leadership of a 4-year starter at QB, and will miss the size and talent of Whetsel. Ashland also lost some other talented seniors. However, Ashland returns many players with significant experience. Defensively, the strength of the defense last year was the defensive line where three starters return: DE Obrien (250), DT Ellis (270), and DT Johnson (260). The remaining position will likely be filled by Trace ARmstrong who is 6'5" 275 or CJ Johnson who is 6'3" 230. Their MLBs return with Justice and Swift, and they get experience back in the secondary with Logan S., Noah W., and Evan Y. They need some outside linebackers. Offensively, the offensive line returns 5 who all started at various times last year. They are strong and have decent quickness: O'brien (250), Justice (250), Walters (225), Swift (190), and Armstrong (275). OThers who will likely contribute at OL: Ellis, Johnson, McCoy, Moore. QB will be Elam who has excelled at every level he has played. RB returns talent with Watts and Younge. underclassmen: Baker, Moore, Vaughn may see some significant time too. The REceivers could use some additional talent, but probably include Massey, Salow, C.J. Johnson. Ashland has a tough schedule. I'm looking forward to watching them this year. I think they will surprise a lot of people.

Ive noticed a new face at the receiver spot besides Baker, he's a Jr. named Myles McGranhan looks to be around 6'2 great hands an length can really get up an get the ball. This kid could help take the sting of losing Withrow. Someone else that has been overlooked is Noah Wessel he had tons of playing time last year on both sides of ball an several picks as a corner an made some nice catches as a wideout. He will bring some more experience an leadership along with Salow an Massey at receiver.