Clearwater Central Catholic

At a glance

Coach: Chris Harvey, seventh season

Class: 1, District 3 (Metro)

Last season: 8-4

Key players: WR/S Julian Allen Jr., Sr.; OG/DT Shane Elam, Sr.; SS/WR Andy Jaffe, Jr.; WR/DB Nate Johnson III, Sr.; QB/DE Jershaun Newton, So.; DE/LB/WR Curtis Roberts, Sr., RB Lenwood Sapp, Sr.; OT/DE Kevin Terry, Sr. NG/OG Noah Vick, Sr. 

Schedule

Friday vs. Berkeley Prep, 7:30

Sept. 2 at Ocala Trinity Catholic, 7

Sept. 9 at Tampa Catholic, 7

Sept. 16 vs. St. Petersburg Catholic, 7:30

Sept. 23 vs. Sebring, 7:30

Sept. 30 at Carrollwood Day, 7

Oct. 7 at Jesuit, 7:30

Oct. 14 vs. Cambridge Christian, 7:30

Oct. 21 Bye

Oct. 28  at Seffner Christian, 7:30

Nov. 4 vs. IMG White, 7:30

Outlook

Last season, the Marauders lost in the region final to eventual state finalist Berkeley Prep. After facing the Buccaneers in the playoffs three of the past four seasons, Clearwater Central Catholic will not be able to face its rival in the postseason this year after moving to Class 1 in the newly formed Metro Division. The Marauders’ experienced lineup makes them one the favorites to reach the state final. Jershaun Newton takes over as the full-time starter at quarterback after playing in a limited role last season. Newton, a dynamic dual-threat, accounted for five touchdowns in last week’s preseason win over Wiregrass Ranch. Lenwood Sapp, who rushed for more than 1,587 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, is back at running back. The depth at receiver is the best Harvey has had in his seven years as coach. Nate Johnson II, a Boston College commit who had 912 yards and eight touchdowns a year ago, is the leader of the group that includes Andy Jaffe, Julian Allen, Luis Sanchez and David Green. The offensive line has veterans, too, with Kevin Terry, a Temple commit, and Shane Elam, leading the way. On defense, the top returners are safety Carson Schiavello (63 tackles), lineman Noah Vick (58 tackles, two sacks), linebacker Curtis Roberts (29 tackles, seven sacks), Jaffe (41 tackles, one interception) and Johnson (three interceptions).