McNICHOLAS ROCKETS
Division III, Region 12
Head Coach: Mike Orlando (2-8, one year @ McNicholas, 2-8 overall)
2011 Record: 2-8, 1-6

Overview: The seniors on the 2012 McNicholas football team have seen both ends of the spectrum during their careers. Two years ago they mopped up for a senior-laden squad who had a purpose and was dedicated to putting in the effort to grab the Region 12 championship. Last fall the hunter became the hunted and the Rockets weren’t ready for prime time. They didn’t have engines to fuel back-to-back playoff appearances. This group has many parallels with the 2010 McNick team.

There is much to like about the Rockets. Quarterback Austin Ernst and top runner Kevin McHale are back. They will need the offensive line to hold up. A year in the weight room will benefit Ernst, who was in the middle of way too many collapses of the pocket as a junior. They must get bigger, stronger and faster on the interior if they want to get back to the post-season. Keep an eye on receivers Michael Mink and Thomas Vogele. They are a tandem that will cause headaches for opposing defensive backs. Big numbers are ahead for the wideouts.

The defense has quality experience and decent depth. Up front Paul Wilson, Logan Stultz and Kevin Williams all return and should be very productive. McHale is even better at linebacker than he is as a tailback. In the secondary Daniel Sandmann had two interceptions including one for a touchdown as a sophomore. He will be joined by Vogele and Brad Rice. Pat DiSalvio is a huge weapon with his leg as he has connected on 11 career field goals and averaged 37.3 per punt as a junior. He makes the McNick special teams one of the best in the GCL.

Any thoughts/predictions on the scrimmage/jamboree with norwood on Friday

Didn't get much of a chance to break it down, but we are looking forward to next week's matchup with NewCath.

Any takes on the scrimmage after the fact?