Upper Scioto Valley to capitalize on 2007 growing pains

McGUFFEY - A year ago, Upper Scioto Valley's players were dealing with a fairly big challenge.

The team had to adjust to a new coach, a new quarterback and a vastly different offense.

The Rams were switching from a run-first, three-back attack to a spread offense that adjusted at the line and tried to attack defenses from all angles.

The growing pains were evident as the Rams fell to a 2-8 record (2-5 in the Northwest Central Conference).

But second-year head coach Ryan Rose believes that with a year under its belt, his team's grasp and execution of the spread offense is vastly improved.

A big reason for that is the experience junior quarterback Rhys Rose (6-1, 175) last year under center. His ability to adjust at the line of scrimmage and find receivers should be a notch above what it was last year when he was thrust into the starting QB role.

The offense will return two starting running backs in Troy Summa (6-0, 193) and Brett Wodarski (5-6, 137). Rhys Rose's main receiving targets will be returning starters Jake Nelson (5-10, 165), Steven Larue (5-6, 130) and Colby Salyer (6-2, 162).

On the line, Austin Carey (5-9, 182) will play center while the tackles will include a mix of Gabe Smith (6-2, 217), Jacob Smith (6-1, 220) and Dylan Renkert (6-0, 224). Vying for the guard spots will be Jon Kindle (6-2, 192), Seth Bischoff (5-10, 165), Devan Ribley (6-0, 185) and Robert Bowers (5-10, 147).

According to coach Rose, the team has devoted a lot of time and attention to the other side of the ball also. Joi Kindle and Gabe Smith should be tough on the defensive line while Summa will key the defense from his linebacking spot.

Rose also highlighted promising newcomers such as Brian Roberts (WR/DB), Trey Williams (RB/DB) and Chris Rogers (WR/DB) who will add to the mix.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Rhys Rose

The 6-foot-1, 175-pound quarterback will lead a spread offense that continues to improve.

UPPER SCIOTO VALLEY

Coach: Ryan Rose

Years, record at school: Second season, 2-8

2007 record: 2-8 overall, 2-5 in Northwest Central Conference

Returning letterwinners: 14

Returning starters: 13 overall

Outlook: With a new coach and a completely new offense, the Rams struggled to a 2-8 record a year ago. But coach Rose believes his squad has learned the ins and outs of his offense and will turn a corner this season.

Aug. 22          DANBURY

Aug. 29          at Hicksville

Sept. 5           at Perry

Sept. 12         at Ridgemont

Sept. 19         MARION CATHOLIC

Sept. 26         at Fairbanks

Oct. 3             WAYNESFIELD-GOSHEN

Oct. 10           at Riverside

Oct. 17           PERRY

Oct. 24           at Yellow Springs