In trying to determine where the Panthers will focus their recruiting efforts, I think its important to first look at what roster spots will be vacated by Seniors. Fourteen Panthers will graduate this spring, and 9 of these players are listed in offensive positions. Most notably, Matt Dobson, Matt Lucas, Quintel Banks, and Thomas Porter will leave major voids in the backfield. Losing 4 members of the backfield is a lot, so look for the Panthers to be shopping for quarterbacks, fullbacks, and running backs in the off season. Also taking a hit will be the offensive line for the Panthers. Three members of this unit will be graduating. Andrew Hollingsworth, Steven Keesler, and Dexter Hinds. These have all been major contributors this year to the offensive line, and their leaving will cause the coaches to shop for their replacements in the off season. While Ferrum has 17 players listed as returning offensive linemen in 2010, it is a good bet that coaches will look to fill the voids listed above, and also increase their size in the process.
On the defensive side of the ball, Maureik Goode will leave big shoes to fill at linebacker. Maureik has been a major player in his years at Ferrum, and was selected as the 2009 preseason impact player for the Panthers. Another Linebacker Jesus Diaz will depart as a Senior. Look for the recruiters to try to secure speed and experience to rebuild the linebacker corps.
Dennis Hardy will leave a legacy of success as a Panther, and will cause the coaches to scramble to find a suitable replacement for his talent. Besides Dennis, the secondary will also lose Derek Clinger, Brandon Jackson and Chris Self.
It would appear that except for the Defensive line, Ferrum will have many holes to fill. While there are returners who will be expected to step up, Ferrum's recruiters will be out in full force in the off season looking to build for the future.
Notable Returners- Offense
Running Backs
Look forward to Mike Vann coming back for his senior season. Mike has been a workhorse for the Panthers, and will be looked to for his continued contributions. Joining Vann in the backfield will be hard running Steven Harris who will be back for his junior year. You can also expect Aaron Johnson and Eric Dorsey to see time in the backfield.
Quarterback
At quarterback, it could be a wide open race, but Zach Lewis, who has some playing time from this season should have an inside track.
Offensive Line
On the offensive line, Ferrum will have plenty of players to choose from. Some of the following will be called on to provide a solid front line. Michael Walker from Park View High School (South Hill), will return for his Senior season. Others you can expect to see on the O Line are Zachary Bossio, Derek Tinsley, Jack McDowell, and Tevin Scott. Lastly look for Tim Harris to see playing time up front.
Fullback
With Matt Lucus and Quintel Banks gone, this will be a position that is up for grabs.
Tight End / Wide Receiver
At TE, look for Vince Munch to return as a starter for his Senior season, and you can expect more big numbers out of Makaya Jackson at Wide Receiver who will be returning for his Junior year.
Notable Returners- Defense
Defensive Line
Look for the Panthers D Line to return most everybody from this past season, anchored by Willie Taylor from Onancock's Nandua High School. Taylor had 34.5 tackles in'09 (27 solo) 8 of which resulted in 42 lost yards for the opponents.
Along with Taylor, look for Fredrick Glenn, John Branch, and Shawn Winfrey to see significant time in the trenches.
Defensive End
Zach Leonard will be back for his Senior year. The 6'3 250 lb Roanoke native had 39.5 tackles in 2009, and looks to be even more dominate in his last season. Also look for Bryson Lipscombe to see a good bit of playing time at Defensive End.
Linebacker
Jamar Mosley will lead the linebacker corps as he returns for his Junior year. Mosley saw a lot of playing time in '09 was involved in 41.5 tackles, 22 of which were solo. Along with Mosley, Chris McCalla will return for his Senior season.
Defensive Backfield
Ferrum has some players returning to the defensive backfield position, but will have some holes to fill. look for J.T. Edwards, Marco McNeal, and Kenny Tapscott to be vying to start in 2010. Beyond that those on the roster have limited if any playing time.
Special Teams
This is an area that the Panthers are solid. With All American Punter T.J. Grzeikowski returning for his Senior year, and Scott Puschell who had a tremendous Freshman year returning, this may be at the lower end of the recruiting needs list.
So here is where I think the Panthers will focus their recruiting efforts:
1. Defensive backfield/Cornerback/Safety- The need for speed in this area is paramount. May recruit a WR to transition to defense.
2. Fullback- This is an important need, and an important part of the Ferrum offense. Look for Ferrum to pick up two Fullbacks if available.
3. Offensive Linemen- Need to fill holes left by graduation, and possibly increase size.
4. Linebacker- While there is talent in this area, there may be a need for more depth on the roster.
5. Quarterback- Probably a lesser of a priority, but one more can't hurt...especially if his high school offense ran the option.
It will be interesting to see who Ferrum picks up for 2010.
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