Training camp has already arrived for the NFL. In less than a week, high school football begins its version of training camp with two-a-day practices July 31.
And this year, it’s all about the lines.
Think about it. Who’s back? Linemen.
Elyria Catholic has junior Jared Schuster, the younger brother of graduated quarterback Cody Schuster and running back Jacob Schuster. Avon Lake returns junior Christian Pace and senior Joe Coyne. Shawn Hemenway and Chris Doughty also return for Norwalk St. Paul.
Then, there’s the defensive side of the ball. The Shoremen have their guys with end Zach Murray and Sean McCann. Keystone’s got talent with Matt Herb and Forrest Smith. I didn’t even mention all the experience Wellington and Monroeville have on the offensive and defensive lines.
Oh, and don’t let me forget Michigan State-recruit Derek Hoebing. Sure, he’s a tight end, but he can count as a lineman. He practically was a blocking tight end the last two years anyway.
The stars are aligned for many teams along the line. With that, new star players will emerge at other positions.
St. Paul coach John Livengood may say there’s no way you can replace a running back like Joe Graziani, but the presence of guys like Hemenway and Doughty will make such a feat that much easier for fullback Matt Wilde. Mike Haddad and his Golden Helmet may have graduated from Avon Lake, but Steve Mares and anyone else coming up will probably look just like Haddad, Bobby Doyle and any other former Avon Lake running back marching down the field. That’s all because of the line.
This fall, when a star quarterback or running back says all the credit goes to his offensive line, that may be more true than ever.