Football preview: Alonso — July 18

Alonso

At a glance

Coach: Hayden Cantrell, first season

Class: 4, District 7 (Metro)

Last season: 6-4

Key players: WR/RB Josh Andrews, So.,; WR Wesley Collins, Sr.; WR Matthias Donaldson, Jr.,; LB/DE Chris Gray,Sr.; G/DT Levaun Hall, Jr.,; WR/CB/FS Cole Herbig, Jr.; LB Gavin Hughes, Sr.; T Chris Izaguirre, Jr.,; CB Chris Kohli, Jr.; T/C/G Alex Porcelli, Sr.; QB/ATH Terrell Russell Jr., So.; FS/SS Ty Stilling, Sr. 

Schedule

Aug. 19 vs. Osceola, 7:30 (kickoff classic)

Aug. 26 vs. Freedom, 7:30

Sept. 2 vs.Blake, 7:30

Sept. 9 at Spoto, 7:30

Sept. 16 at Sickles, 7:30

Sept. 23 vs. Leto, 7:30

Sept. 30 at Plant City, 7:30

Oct. 7 at Riverview, 7:30

Oct. 14 vs. Strawberry Crest, 7:30

Oct. 21 Bye

Oct. 28 vs. Plant, 7:30

Nov. 4 at Brandon, 7:30

Outlook

In May, Alonso promoted assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Hayden Cantrell to coach. He takes over for Dylan Clark, who left after two seasons. By hiring Cantrell, the Ravens were able to maintain some continuity for a program that saw tremendous improvement. After starting 2-3, Alonso closed out last season by winning four of its final four games to finish 6-4. It was the first time since 2011 the Ravens had a winning record. More than 40 players return, nearly all of whom were freshmen and sophomores a year ago. The biggest task is replacing quarterback Elijah Rhoden, who threw and ran for more than 1,000 yards and accounted for 28 touchdowns last season. TJ Russell Jr., who transferred from Cambridge Christian, is a dynamic dual threat who will fill the void left by Rhoden. There are plenty of other playmakers on offense, led by Joshua Andrews, who had 696 total yards last season (245 rushing, 451 receiving). The top returner on defense is linebacker Gavin Hughes, who had 75 tackles, 3 ½ sacks and three interceptions last season.