PD
8/25
Plain Dealer High School Football Preseason Top 25
Thursday, August 25, 2005
1. Glenville: The Tarblooders hope to build on last season's record playoff drive. Exceptional talent, depth and a playoff-tested quarterback in Arvell Nelson could result in the Tarblooders dancing into the Division I state title game.
2. St. Ignatius: Veteran coach Chuck Kyle likes the size his receivers bring to the field (6-4, 6-4 and 6-5), and his team's skill and quickness on both sides of the ball. The Wildcats have solid senior and sophomore classes.
3. St. Edward: OK, a strong senior class said goodbye. But the Eagles have one of the top junior contingents in Northeast Ohio and plenty of size and strength to fuel the Big Green Machine.
4. Mentor: The Cardinals are a deep and talented team, one Mentor faithful are comparing to the memorable 2003 squad. Look for the juniors to show the way.
5. Strongsville: The Mustangs have an abundance of skill but must develop a starting quarterback. And who better to do that than coach Russ Jacques, a former Plain Dealer All-Scholastic signal caller?
6. Solon: The Comets' big and aggressive line will bust open plenty of holes for all-state tailback Brandon Shimits. Don't overlook defensive-secondary standout Steve Valentino or rugged fullback/linebacker Aleksey Tigay.
7. Benedictine: The "Home of Champions" is seeking its third consecutive Division III state crown. There is a question mark at quarterback, but the talent and experience at the other skill positions should offset any early growing pains.
8. Tallmadge: The Blue Devils return 13 starters from a team that produced the best season in school history, reaching the Division II state semifinals and finishing 12-2.
9. Avon Lake: By Week 10, the defending Plain Dealer poll champion should be more than ready for the Amherst challenge.
10. Amherst: Alex Knipp & Co. are confident they can unseat Avon Lake in the Southwestern Conference.
11. Nordonia: Any team with tailback/free safety Jordan Mabin on its roster is dangerous. The Knights will be able to play with anyone.
12. Walsh Jesuit: Yes, the Warriors lost considerable talent to graduation, but the cupboard is hardly bare. Six starters return on defense, and tailback Mark Wooldridge and offensive tackle Nick Schepis are two of the best juniors in the area.
13. Akron Garfield: The Rams have enough of a supporting cast behind Chris Wells to reach the playoffs for the second year in a row. A rugged nonleague schedule (Hoban, GlenOak, Green and Walsh - all on the road) will not make it a joy ride.
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14. Buchtel: The Griffins' array of Divi-
sion I college prospects is not as large as usual, but Buchtel remains one of the top Division III teams in Ohio. Its nonleague schedule of Steubenville, Warren Harding, Walsh Jesuit and Shaker Heights can cause severe heartache.
15. Shaker Heights: The Raiders have a nice nucleus of veteran talent, including seven returning starters on offense, but replacing two-way anchor and leading tackler Nick Simon will be a chore.
16. Brunswick: The Blue Devils may deserve a better spot in the poll. Many avid fans along I-71 believe Brunswick will go toe-to-toe with Strongsville.
17. Maple Heights: Can quarterback Anthony Wright keep the young Mustangs among the area's elite?
18. Copley: Delone Carter is one of the best running backs in Northeast Ohio. It will be up to the rest of the Indians to pick it up a notch and challenge Tallmadge in the Suburban League.
19. Lake Catholic: Quarterback Ricky Stanzi can get it done with his arm and his legs. Some solid two-way players graduated, but youth will be served at those spots.
20. Archbishop Hoban: The Knights excelled offensively last year, thanks mostly to Tyrell Sutton, now at Northwestern. They will attempt to excel with defense this year, switching to a rare 3-5 alignment. Hoban has great team speed, especially on defense.
21. Hudson: With big offensive tackle Bill Nagy clearing a path, the Explorers will find their way.
22. Euclid: Led by the gifted Thaddeus Gibson, the Panthers will play a high-intensity defense. Now, if they can just find some balance and consistency on offense.
23. Willoughby South: The defending Premier Athletic Conference champions can score from anywhere, whether the Rebels are on offense, defense or special teams. Drake Delande and Deante Odom are big-play threats.
24. Garfield Heights: The Bulldogs have a veteran offensive line, a solid running game and a capable defense keyed by middle linebacker Justin Berdysz, who has 226 career tackles.
25. Cleveland Heights: Coach Michael Jones is excited about his Tigers and the solid blend of juniors and seniors at the corner of Cedar and Lee.
PD
8/25
The Plain Dealer's Top 40
Thursday, August 25, 2005
This summer while players ran sprints, lifted weights and reviewed the team playbook for final preparations before training camp, The Plain Dealer's high school sports staff was engaged in some studying of its own. Reporters combed scouting reports and notes to determine how Greater Cleveland players rank. Before games kick off tonight, we present our preseason Top 40 chart:
1. Chris Wells/Akron Garfield: Sr., RB/LB, 6-2, 228, Regarded as the top running back in Ohio and one of the best in the country, he verbally committed to Ohio State in February.
KEY STAT: He ran for 1,702 yards in 2004 and scored 18 touchdowns on 180 carries.
2. Thaddeus Gibson/Euclid: Sr., LB/DE, 6-3, 210, The state's premier big-play linebacker, he is one of the most coveted defenders in the nation with numerous scholarship offers.
KEY STAT: He had 17 sacks, 16 quarterback hurries and 40 other solo stops last season.
3. Robert Rose/Glenville: Sr., DL, 6-5, 260, He dominated at tackle during the 2004 postseason, but moves to defensive end this fall. A power forward on the basketball team, he has run a 4.7 40-yard dash.
KEY STAT: He accounted for 11 sacks, 21 hurries, six batted passes and two blocked field-goal attempts in 2004.
4. Ray Small/Glenville: Sr., CB/WR, 6-0, 175, He is a big-time threat as a receiver, a runner and a kick returner, and can alter momentum in a heartbeat with his uncanny ability to block kicks.
KEY STAT: He caught 33 passes for 537 yards and three TDs last season and had 11 solo tackles.
5. Bill Nagy/Hudson: Sr., OT, 6-4, 298, He will play both ways, but his best spot is at offensive tackle.
KEY STAT: He is ranked as the 46th best player in the Midwest by Sporting News.
6. John Ryan/St. Ignatius: Sr., DE/TE, 6-5, 240, This Notre Dame recruit brings a quick first step and hard-nosed strength and athleticism to his defensive position.
KEY STAT: He'll be part of the offensive mix in a program known for using its tight end.
7. Daven Jones/Glenville: Sr., WR/S, 6-1, 185, He has the speed and runs fluid, disciplined routes. The University of Wisconsin recruit always draws double coverage.
KEY STAT: He ranked second in Tarblooder receiving last season with 29 receptions for 461 yards and six TDs.
8. Delone Carter/Copley: Sr., RB, 5-11, 200, He is a hard-nosed runner. Opponents say he is difficult to bring down in single coverage.
KEY STAT: He ran for 2,500 yards in leading the Indians into the regional finals in 2004.
9. Jordan Mabin/Nordonia: Jr., TB/FS, 5-11, 182, An electrifying runner and receiver, he will be one of the area's most sought-after players next year.
KEY STAT: He ran for 1,787 yards and scored 21 TDs last season.
10.Joe Thomas/St. Edward: Sr., OL, 6-4, 300, The University of Pittsburgh recruit is solid as both a pass and a run blocker. He brings a relentless, hard-nosed approach to the field.
KEY STAT: He played in the shadow of Alex Boone last season, but moves to tackle and will make his own mark.
11. Robby Parris/St. Ignatius: Sr., WR, 6-4, 190, Another early Notre Dame recruit, he has the hands, runs disciplined routes and has the ability to leap and outreach defenders for the ball.
KEY STAT: He caught 34 passes for 13 touchdowns last season and averaged better than 22 yards per catch.
12. Raymond Fisher/Glenville: Sr., WR/TB/CB, 5-10, 170, A three-year varsity mainstay, this kid is a ball hawk. He totaled 196 yards on five kickoff returns last year.
KEY STAT: He accounted for four interceptions last year, averaging 31 yards in return yardage.
13. Bryant Browning/Glenville: Sr., OT, 6-5, 345, He is the most overlooked Glenville interior player and could be the best offensive lineman in the state by the end of the season.
KEY STAT: He benches 310 pounds, squats 500, runs a 5.2 40 and carries a 4.1 grade-point average.
14. Arvell Nelson/Glenville: Sr., QB, 6-5, 175, He put on 10 pounds, is stronger and has better footwork to complement his quick arm. He has gained a ton of confidence since last year.
KEY STAT: He completed 85 of 163 attempts last season for 1,361 yards and eight touchdowns.
15. Rudy Kirbus/St. Ignatius: Sr., QB, 6-4, 215, He is a tough competitor, has a good feel for the game and is a two-sport standout, excelling in football and basketball.
KEY STAT: He passed for 1,623 yards and 20 TDs in 2004.
16. Jamel Miller/Tallmadge: Sr., TB, 5-11, 185, A Miami of Ohio recruit, he has quick feet and has done a 305-pound bench press. He led the Blue Devils to the playoffs in 2004.
KEY STAT: He rushed for more than 1,700 yards and scored 23 TDs last season.
17. Nick Schepis/Walsh Jesuit: Jr., OT/DT, 6-4, 265, He is regarded as one of the top junior linemen in Northeast Ohio.
KEY STAT: Walsh coaches believe he can be the program's next big-timer, following New England Patriots mainstay Mike Vrabel.
18. Sr., OL, 6-3, 310, Dominic Alford/Shaker Heights: He rebounded from a sophomore injury to become one of the area's top offensive line prospects.
KEY STAT: He ran a 5.0 40 at the Ohio State camp and is being recruited by numerous Division I-A programs.
19. Bob Gully/Berea: Sr., OT/DT, 6-5, 275, Durable and agile, he will be a third-year starter for the Braves as they move to the Southwestern Conference.
KEY STAT: He has impressed Division I-A college scouts with his pass-blocking footwork.
20. Alex Knipp/Amherst: Sr., RB, 6-1, 190,He is stronger and faster this season and will be counted on heavily to help Amherst try to end Avon Lake's dominance of the Southwestern Conference.
KEY STAT: He rushed for 2,138 yards and 29 TDs last season, helping the Comets to a Division II playoff berth.
21. Cortez Jones/Akron Garfield: Sr., FS/RB, 6-1, 190, Not many people have heard about him because he broke his leg early last year.
KEY STAT: If not for PD No. 1 pick Chris Wells, Jones would be the Rams' best player, Garfield coach Bob Sax said.
22. P.J. Mahone/Elyria: Sr., WR/RB/S, 6-0, 195, He is young - he turns 17 in October - and has matured a lot physically, adding 15 pounds of muscle. He scored 13 TDs and made 90 tackles in 2004.
KEY STAT: He averaged close to 20 yards per reception and nine yards per rushing attempt last season.
23. Drake Delande/Willoughby South: Sr., WR/DB, 6-1, 180, He is coveted by several MAC schools for his speed, versatility and knack for making big plays, including special teams work.
KEY STAT: In 2004, he caught 37 passes for 527 yards, made 119 tackles, four interceptions and three fumble recoveries.
24. Ricky Stanzi/Lake Catholic: Sr., QB, 6-4, 200, He was not well known outside of the area until he impressed scouts at numerous college summer camps. Now, he is considered a hot prospect.
KEY STAT: As a new starter last season, he passed for 1,758 yards and 15 TDs and ran for 531 yards and four scores.
25. Royce Adams/Glenville: Sr., DB/TB, 6-1, 180, The St. Edward transfer has exceptional speed and is tough to track in the open field.
KEY STAT: He has received passing marks from the highly respected McCallister Scouting Report.
26. Anthony Gallas/Strongsville: Sr., WR/DB, 6-2, 200, He has the whole package - speed, hands and balance.
KEY STAT: He had more than 1,160 receiving yards last fall for a 24-yard average and caught 12 TD passes.
27. Chad Schofield/Strongsville: Sr., OT, 6-4, 320, The Marshall University recruit will anchor the Mustangs' talented front.
KEY STAT: He is among Ohio High Magazine's "Seniors to Watch."
28. Gino Sturdivant/Glenville:Jr., LB/RB/QB, 5-10, 185, He led Glenville with 13 tackles for losses in 2004, while totaling 57 tackles and four sacks.
KEY STAT: "Mr. Versatility" was pressed into QB action in 2004 and passed for 557 yards and five TDs in four games.
29. Jahmal Brown/Benedictine: Sr., RB/LB, 5-11, 190, He is being sought by Big Ten, Big 12 and Big East programs.
KEY STAT: He gained 123 yards per game in 2004, scored 21 TDs, was in on 105 tackles and had five interceptions.
30. Brandon Shimits/Solon: Sr., TB, 5-9, 170, He earned All-Ohio honors in 2004 and was the Division I Co-Offensive player of the year in the Northeast Lakes District with St. Edward grad Alex Boone.
KEY STAT: He established school records by rushing for 2,512 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2004.
31. Eric Thomas/Benedictine: Jr., DE, 6-5, 250, Strong and agile, he is considered one of the top three junior defensive ends in the state.
KEY STAT: He is coming off a sophomore season in which he totaled 50 tackles and four quarterback hurries.
32. Brady DeMell/Mentor: Jr., DE, 6-3, 250,Also a hockey and lacrosse standout, he is at the head of Mentor's gifted junior class.
KEY STAT: He covers ground quickly, plays with passion and loves most of all to hit, posting 81 tackles in 2004.
33. Kyle Hubbard/St. Edward: Jr., WR, 6-3, 220, Strong and physical, he has the hands and runs controlled routes.
KEY STAT: His ability as both a deep and a possession receiver helped the Eagles' JV squad go unbeaten in 2004.
34. Paul Rice/University School: Sr., RB/LB, 6-2, 215, He is one of the most dominant Division III players in Northeast Ohio on both sides of the ball and also handles place kicking.
KEY STAT: He rushed for 1,341 yards and 15 TDs in 2004, passed for three scores and had a team-best 82 tackles.
35. Mark Dvoroznak/St. Edward: Sr., DB/WR, 6-2, 185, Quick and athletic, he has exceptional instincts, collecting six interceptions and deflecting five passes in 2004.
KEY STAT: Mark and his twin brother, John, a two-way end, are two of the Eagles' top eight players. 36. Frank Edmonds/St. Edward: Jr., TB, 5-8, 185, Remember this name, because by October this kid could be as good as any back in the area.
KEY STAT: He just explodes through the first 50 to 60 yards and is built in the Barry Sanders mold. 37. Kyle Harrison/Tallmadge: Sr., FS/WR, 6-0, 185, He is regarded as the best cover man in Summit County.
KEY STAT: He made 80 tackles and had two interceptions in 2004 while compiling 670 yards rushing and receiving.
38. Bobby Doyle/Chardon: Sr., HB, 5-11, 190, Not to be confused with the Avon Lake back by the same name who graduated in June, this Navy recruit is the son of former Chardon coach Bob Doyle.
KEY STAT: He rushed for 1,339 yards, scored 19 TDs and averaged nine yards per carry.
39. Will Miller/Archbishop Hoban: Sr., DB/TB, 5-11, 195, He is the heart and soul of what promises to be one of the area's best defenses.
KEY STAT: He made 126 tackles last season, including nine behind the line of scrimmage.
40. Nate Oliver/St. Edward: Jr., DB/RB, 6-1, 192, The consensus of college scouts and John McCallister, editor of the McCallister Scouting Report, is this kid is already an exceptional player and should get better.
KEY STAT: He will again make his mark on defense and special teams. Keep an eye on him as a slotback, too.
8/25
Plain Dealer High School Football Preseason Top 25
Thursday, August 25, 2005
1. Glenville: The Tarblooders hope to build on last season's record playoff drive. Exceptional talent, depth and a playoff-tested quarterback in Arvell Nelson could result in the Tarblooders dancing into the Division I state title game.
2. St. Ignatius: Veteran coach Chuck Kyle likes the size his receivers bring to the field (6-4, 6-4 and 6-5), and his team's skill and quickness on both sides of the ball. The Wildcats have solid senior and sophomore classes.
3. St. Edward: OK, a strong senior class said goodbye. But the Eagles have one of the top junior contingents in Northeast Ohio and plenty of size and strength to fuel the Big Green Machine.
4. Mentor: The Cardinals are a deep and talented team, one Mentor faithful are comparing to the memorable 2003 squad. Look for the juniors to show the way.
5. Strongsville: The Mustangs have an abundance of skill but must develop a starting quarterback. And who better to do that than coach Russ Jacques, a former Plain Dealer All-Scholastic signal caller?
6. Solon: The Comets' big and aggressive line will bust open plenty of holes for all-state tailback Brandon Shimits. Don't overlook defensive-secondary standout Steve Valentino or rugged fullback/linebacker Aleksey Tigay.
7. Benedictine: The "Home of Champions" is seeking its third consecutive Division III state crown. There is a question mark at quarterback, but the talent and experience at the other skill positions should offset any early growing pains.
8. Tallmadge: The Blue Devils return 13 starters from a team that produced the best season in school history, reaching the Division II state semifinals and finishing 12-2.
9. Avon Lake: By Week 10, the defending Plain Dealer poll champion should be more than ready for the Amherst challenge.
10. Amherst: Alex Knipp & Co. are confident they can unseat Avon Lake in the Southwestern Conference.
11. Nordonia: Any team with tailback/free safety Jordan Mabin on its roster is dangerous. The Knights will be able to play with anyone.
12. Walsh Jesuit: Yes, the Warriors lost considerable talent to graduation, but the cupboard is hardly bare. Six starters return on defense, and tailback Mark Wooldridge and offensive tackle Nick Schepis are two of the best juniors in the area.
13. Akron Garfield: The Rams have enough of a supporting cast behind Chris Wells to reach the playoffs for the second year in a row. A rugged nonleague schedule (Hoban, GlenOak, Green and Walsh - all on the road) will not make it a joy ride.
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14. Buchtel: The Griffins' array of Divi-
sion I college prospects is not as large as usual, but Buchtel remains one of the top Division III teams in Ohio. Its nonleague schedule of Steubenville, Warren Harding, Walsh Jesuit and Shaker Heights can cause severe heartache.
15. Shaker Heights: The Raiders have a nice nucleus of veteran talent, including seven returning starters on offense, but replacing two-way anchor and leading tackler Nick Simon will be a chore.
16. Brunswick: The Blue Devils may deserve a better spot in the poll. Many avid fans along I-71 believe Brunswick will go toe-to-toe with Strongsville.
17. Maple Heights: Can quarterback Anthony Wright keep the young Mustangs among the area's elite?
18. Copley: Delone Carter is one of the best running backs in Northeast Ohio. It will be up to the rest of the Indians to pick it up a notch and challenge Tallmadge in the Suburban League.
19. Lake Catholic: Quarterback Ricky Stanzi can get it done with his arm and his legs. Some solid two-way players graduated, but youth will be served at those spots.
20. Archbishop Hoban: The Knights excelled offensively last year, thanks mostly to Tyrell Sutton, now at Northwestern. They will attempt to excel with defense this year, switching to a rare 3-5 alignment. Hoban has great team speed, especially on defense.
21. Hudson: With big offensive tackle Bill Nagy clearing a path, the Explorers will find their way.
22. Euclid: Led by the gifted Thaddeus Gibson, the Panthers will play a high-intensity defense. Now, if they can just find some balance and consistency on offense.
23. Willoughby South: The defending Premier Athletic Conference champions can score from anywhere, whether the Rebels are on offense, defense or special teams. Drake Delande and Deante Odom are big-play threats.
24. Garfield Heights: The Bulldogs have a veteran offensive line, a solid running game and a capable defense keyed by middle linebacker Justin Berdysz, who has 226 career tackles.
25. Cleveland Heights: Coach Michael Jones is excited about his Tigers and the solid blend of juniors and seniors at the corner of Cedar and Lee.
PD
8/25
The Plain Dealer's Top 40
Thursday, August 25, 2005
This summer while players ran sprints, lifted weights and reviewed the team playbook for final preparations before training camp, The Plain Dealer's high school sports staff was engaged in some studying of its own. Reporters combed scouting reports and notes to determine how Greater Cleveland players rank. Before games kick off tonight, we present our preseason Top 40 chart:
1. Chris Wells/Akron Garfield: Sr., RB/LB, 6-2, 228, Regarded as the top running back in Ohio and one of the best in the country, he verbally committed to Ohio State in February.
KEY STAT: He ran for 1,702 yards in 2004 and scored 18 touchdowns on 180 carries.
2. Thaddeus Gibson/Euclid: Sr., LB/DE, 6-3, 210, The state's premier big-play linebacker, he is one of the most coveted defenders in the nation with numerous scholarship offers.
KEY STAT: He had 17 sacks, 16 quarterback hurries and 40 other solo stops last season.
3. Robert Rose/Glenville: Sr., DL, 6-5, 260, He dominated at tackle during the 2004 postseason, but moves to defensive end this fall. A power forward on the basketball team, he has run a 4.7 40-yard dash.
KEY STAT: He accounted for 11 sacks, 21 hurries, six batted passes and two blocked field-goal attempts in 2004.
4. Ray Small/Glenville: Sr., CB/WR, 6-0, 175, He is a big-time threat as a receiver, a runner and a kick returner, and can alter momentum in a heartbeat with his uncanny ability to block kicks.
KEY STAT: He caught 33 passes for 537 yards and three TDs last season and had 11 solo tackles.
5. Bill Nagy/Hudson: Sr., OT, 6-4, 298, He will play both ways, but his best spot is at offensive tackle.
KEY STAT: He is ranked as the 46th best player in the Midwest by Sporting News.
6. John Ryan/St. Ignatius: Sr., DE/TE, 6-5, 240, This Notre Dame recruit brings a quick first step and hard-nosed strength and athleticism to his defensive position.
KEY STAT: He'll be part of the offensive mix in a program known for using its tight end.
7. Daven Jones/Glenville: Sr., WR/S, 6-1, 185, He has the speed and runs fluid, disciplined routes. The University of Wisconsin recruit always draws double coverage.
KEY STAT: He ranked second in Tarblooder receiving last season with 29 receptions for 461 yards and six TDs.
8. Delone Carter/Copley: Sr., RB, 5-11, 200, He is a hard-nosed runner. Opponents say he is difficult to bring down in single coverage.
KEY STAT: He ran for 2,500 yards in leading the Indians into the regional finals in 2004.
9. Jordan Mabin/Nordonia: Jr., TB/FS, 5-11, 182, An electrifying runner and receiver, he will be one of the area's most sought-after players next year.
KEY STAT: He ran for 1,787 yards and scored 21 TDs last season.
10.Joe Thomas/St. Edward: Sr., OL, 6-4, 300, The University of Pittsburgh recruit is solid as both a pass and a run blocker. He brings a relentless, hard-nosed approach to the field.
KEY STAT: He played in the shadow of Alex Boone last season, but moves to tackle and will make his own mark.
11. Robby Parris/St. Ignatius: Sr., WR, 6-4, 190, Another early Notre Dame recruit, he has the hands, runs disciplined routes and has the ability to leap and outreach defenders for the ball.
KEY STAT: He caught 34 passes for 13 touchdowns last season and averaged better than 22 yards per catch.
12. Raymond Fisher/Glenville: Sr., WR/TB/CB, 5-10, 170, A three-year varsity mainstay, this kid is a ball hawk. He totaled 196 yards on five kickoff returns last year.
KEY STAT: He accounted for four interceptions last year, averaging 31 yards in return yardage.
13. Bryant Browning/Glenville: Sr., OT, 6-5, 345, He is the most overlooked Glenville interior player and could be the best offensive lineman in the state by the end of the season.
KEY STAT: He benches 310 pounds, squats 500, runs a 5.2 40 and carries a 4.1 grade-point average.
14. Arvell Nelson/Glenville: Sr., QB, 6-5, 175, He put on 10 pounds, is stronger and has better footwork to complement his quick arm. He has gained a ton of confidence since last year.
KEY STAT: He completed 85 of 163 attempts last season for 1,361 yards and eight touchdowns.
15. Rudy Kirbus/St. Ignatius: Sr., QB, 6-4, 215, He is a tough competitor, has a good feel for the game and is a two-sport standout, excelling in football and basketball.
KEY STAT: He passed for 1,623 yards and 20 TDs in 2004.
16. Jamel Miller/Tallmadge: Sr., TB, 5-11, 185, A Miami of Ohio recruit, he has quick feet and has done a 305-pound bench press. He led the Blue Devils to the playoffs in 2004.
KEY STAT: He rushed for more than 1,700 yards and scored 23 TDs last season.
17. Nick Schepis/Walsh Jesuit: Jr., OT/DT, 6-4, 265, He is regarded as one of the top junior linemen in Northeast Ohio.
KEY STAT: Walsh coaches believe he can be the program's next big-timer, following New England Patriots mainstay Mike Vrabel.
18. Sr., OL, 6-3, 310, Dominic Alford/Shaker Heights: He rebounded from a sophomore injury to become one of the area's top offensive line prospects.
KEY STAT: He ran a 5.0 40 at the Ohio State camp and is being recruited by numerous Division I-A programs.
19. Bob Gully/Berea: Sr., OT/DT, 6-5, 275, Durable and agile, he will be a third-year starter for the Braves as they move to the Southwestern Conference.
KEY STAT: He has impressed Division I-A college scouts with his pass-blocking footwork.
20. Alex Knipp/Amherst: Sr., RB, 6-1, 190,He is stronger and faster this season and will be counted on heavily to help Amherst try to end Avon Lake's dominance of the Southwestern Conference.
KEY STAT: He rushed for 2,138 yards and 29 TDs last season, helping the Comets to a Division II playoff berth.
21. Cortez Jones/Akron Garfield: Sr., FS/RB, 6-1, 190, Not many people have heard about him because he broke his leg early last year.
KEY STAT: If not for PD No. 1 pick Chris Wells, Jones would be the Rams' best player, Garfield coach Bob Sax said.
22. P.J. Mahone/Elyria: Sr., WR/RB/S, 6-0, 195, He is young - he turns 17 in October - and has matured a lot physically, adding 15 pounds of muscle. He scored 13 TDs and made 90 tackles in 2004.
KEY STAT: He averaged close to 20 yards per reception and nine yards per rushing attempt last season.
23. Drake Delande/Willoughby South: Sr., WR/DB, 6-1, 180, He is coveted by several MAC schools for his speed, versatility and knack for making big plays, including special teams work.
KEY STAT: In 2004, he caught 37 passes for 527 yards, made 119 tackles, four interceptions and three fumble recoveries.
24. Ricky Stanzi/Lake Catholic: Sr., QB, 6-4, 200, He was not well known outside of the area until he impressed scouts at numerous college summer camps. Now, he is considered a hot prospect.
KEY STAT: As a new starter last season, he passed for 1,758 yards and 15 TDs and ran for 531 yards and four scores.
25. Royce Adams/Glenville: Sr., DB/TB, 6-1, 180, The St. Edward transfer has exceptional speed and is tough to track in the open field.
KEY STAT: He has received passing marks from the highly respected McCallister Scouting Report.
26. Anthony Gallas/Strongsville: Sr., WR/DB, 6-2, 200, He has the whole package - speed, hands and balance.
KEY STAT: He had more than 1,160 receiving yards last fall for a 24-yard average and caught 12 TD passes.
27. Chad Schofield/Strongsville: Sr., OT, 6-4, 320, The Marshall University recruit will anchor the Mustangs' talented front.
KEY STAT: He is among Ohio High Magazine's "Seniors to Watch."
28. Gino Sturdivant/Glenville:Jr., LB/RB/QB, 5-10, 185, He led Glenville with 13 tackles for losses in 2004, while totaling 57 tackles and four sacks.
KEY STAT: "Mr. Versatility" was pressed into QB action in 2004 and passed for 557 yards and five TDs in four games.
29. Jahmal Brown/Benedictine: Sr., RB/LB, 5-11, 190, He is being sought by Big Ten, Big 12 and Big East programs.
KEY STAT: He gained 123 yards per game in 2004, scored 21 TDs, was in on 105 tackles and had five interceptions.
30. Brandon Shimits/Solon: Sr., TB, 5-9, 170, He earned All-Ohio honors in 2004 and was the Division I Co-Offensive player of the year in the Northeast Lakes District with St. Edward grad Alex Boone.
KEY STAT: He established school records by rushing for 2,512 yards and 34 touchdowns in 2004.
31. Eric Thomas/Benedictine: Jr., DE, 6-5, 250, Strong and agile, he is considered one of the top three junior defensive ends in the state.
KEY STAT: He is coming off a sophomore season in which he totaled 50 tackles and four quarterback hurries.
32. Brady DeMell/Mentor: Jr., DE, 6-3, 250,Also a hockey and lacrosse standout, he is at the head of Mentor's gifted junior class.
KEY STAT: He covers ground quickly, plays with passion and loves most of all to hit, posting 81 tackles in 2004.
33. Kyle Hubbard/St. Edward: Jr., WR, 6-3, 220, Strong and physical, he has the hands and runs controlled routes.
KEY STAT: His ability as both a deep and a possession receiver helped the Eagles' JV squad go unbeaten in 2004.
34. Paul Rice/University School: Sr., RB/LB, 6-2, 215, He is one of the most dominant Division III players in Northeast Ohio on both sides of the ball and also handles place kicking.
KEY STAT: He rushed for 1,341 yards and 15 TDs in 2004, passed for three scores and had a team-best 82 tackles.
35. Mark Dvoroznak/St. Edward: Sr., DB/WR, 6-2, 185, Quick and athletic, he has exceptional instincts, collecting six interceptions and deflecting five passes in 2004.
KEY STAT: Mark and his twin brother, John, a two-way end, are two of the Eagles' top eight players. 36. Frank Edmonds/St. Edward: Jr., TB, 5-8, 185, Remember this name, because by October this kid could be as good as any back in the area.
KEY STAT: He just explodes through the first 50 to 60 yards and is built in the Barry Sanders mold. 37. Kyle Harrison/Tallmadge: Sr., FS/WR, 6-0, 185, He is regarded as the best cover man in Summit County.
KEY STAT: He made 80 tackles and had two interceptions in 2004 while compiling 670 yards rushing and receiving.
38. Bobby Doyle/Chardon: Sr., HB, 5-11, 190, Not to be confused with the Avon Lake back by the same name who graduated in June, this Navy recruit is the son of former Chardon coach Bob Doyle.
KEY STAT: He rushed for 1,339 yards, scored 19 TDs and averaged nine yards per carry.
39. Will Miller/Archbishop Hoban: Sr., DB/TB, 5-11, 195, He is the heart and soul of what promises to be one of the area's best defenses.
KEY STAT: He made 126 tackles last season, including nine behind the line of scrimmage.
40. Nate Oliver/St. Edward: Jr., DB/RB, 6-1, 192, The consensus of college scouts and John McCallister, editor of the McCallister Scouting Report, is this kid is already an exceptional player and should get better.
KEY STAT: He will again make his mark on defense and special teams. Keep an eye on him as a slotback, too.