You do not need to dig too deep to find a theme when you spend hours on the phone with twenty-one football coaches in the same division.

 Two years ago, the talk was of staying safe, waiting on school board approvals, outdoor meetings, and washing footballs.

 Last season there was a much-improved vibe, but it felt like when you ignore your starting pitcher during a no-hitter. Meaning there were a lot of 'if we even make it through the season’ and 'hopefully we don't get shut down’ conversations.

 Two years removed from the strangest year of our lives, things feel normal again across the state. The vibe across the division is very good; the kids spent the winter in the weight room, they’re excited about the season and games are moving forward.

 "We had a great off-season in the weight room, and that's a pretty common theme when you talk to other coaches across the division," said Windham head coach Jack Bryne.

 "The kids worked out together in huge numbers, and that's great to see," said Bedford head coach Zach Matthews. "We basically lost a year in 2020, so we all still feel like we are playing catch up, but it's a very good sign that things have turned around."

 There are more good teams in the division than there were a year ago (teams like Windham and Concord are going to be much improved), and an expanded playoff means thirteen teams will now make the post-season.

 Final 2021 Standings and Statistical Leaders

 Pete Tarrier & I will cover that change and give our thoughts on the division on our podcast, which will be up on the website first thing tomorrow morning.

 Friday night, the season begins for twenty-one teams hoping to end up where Londonderry did last November.

 Today we look at all twenty-one teams and the new three-conference alignment.
 

 Today's column is brought to you by our friends and partners at Exeter Hospital!

 Core Orthopedics and Exeter Hospital’s Sports Medicine Team has a wide range of specialists to help your high school athlete recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and work with athletic trainers to get back in the game. Find them at coreorthoaandsportsmed.com

 

 East Predicted Order

 ( * playoff team)

1. Exeter *

2. Winnacunnet *

3. Timberlane* 

4. Portsmouth-Oyster River *

5. Dover *

6. Manchester Memorial

7. Spaulding

 

 There’s a good chance we take the Exeter Blue Hawks for granted.

 A year ago, while undefeated Winnacunnet got all the deserved attention, Exeter, one of the best football programs in the state by any metrics, quietly went 6-2.

 They eliminated a very good Bedford team in the quarterfinals and gave their arch-rival Warriors everything they could handle in a 21-14 semifinal loss.

 A lot of familiar names return for Bill Ball’s team, and Exeter goes into the 2022 season as the favorites in a very deep group of seacoast teams.

 An opinion I would never dare voice to their Hall of Fame coach.

 “ We are focusing, as we always do, on getting better every day. The seniors understand what we expect, and the underclassman have opportunities to compete for playing time,” said Ball of his Blue Hawks. “ We need to develop depth along our offensive and defensive lines. That’s our focus right now.”

 Evan Pafford returns at quarterback, giving the Blue Hawks good size and experience at the helm of their Wing T offense. “ Evan is a good athlete, and I thought he improved as the season went along a year ago.”

 Exeter will be loaded again at running back, even with the graduation loss of their leading rusher Jake Wiberg.

 Micheal Dettore, Aidan McGinley, and Ethan Moss will all see significant time in a crowded backfield. “ That’s a group we have a lot of confidence in,” said Ball. “Aidan is a terrific football player. He and (brother) Connor help us in a number of ways.”

 Tight end Ryan Graney is an all-state weapon similar to players like (former Boston College star and current Miami Dolphins tight end) Hunter Long and a seemingly long line of players who Exeter has featured at the position. “ Ryan is 6’3, 220 lbs and has looked great in the pre-season,” said Ball. “He’s going to be a huge factor for us this year. He’s a college-level player.”

 Joining Graney on the line and anchoring the unit in the trenches will be Ian O’Kane.

 Connor and Aidan McGinley will lead the defense, along with Ethan Moss at strong safety and Graney on the defensive line. Brad Richards is poised for an all-state season at linebacker and will be joined by Drew Hanna.

 Coach Ball was quick to point out special teams, the over looked third phase of the game, should be a strength as Ethan Moss will handle place kicking duties for the Blue Hawks.

 Giving Exeter the kind of balance across the board that plays well in November.

 “ I’d say the offense is a little ahead of the defense in the pre-season, but we are coming together,” noted Ball. “ We tackle well in space, and when everyone understands their assignment, we have the potential to be a strong unit.”

 Senior leadership, a well-schooled defense, an elite tight end, and a bevy of talented running backs are usually the recipe for success for Exeter.

 You can check every box as we head into opening weekend.

 The Blue Hawks will have a say in who is the last team standing in Division I.

 The Winnacunnet Warriors rolled to an undefeated regular season ( 2021 team page), and earned a pair of one-score wins over Goffstown and Exeter to advance to a much-anticipated championship game showdown with Londonderry.

 Nine starters on offense and eight on defense graduated from a team that fell to the Lancers 24-14, but head coach Ryan Francouer doesn't talk about losses; he talks about the opportunity ahead for his twenty seniors.

 "We have a lot of players, starting at the quarterback position, who could have started for us a year ago and are now ready for their turn," said Francouer. "We lost a lot of good football players, but we feel like we have players ready to step in and senior leadership at every position group."

 Lefty Connor Fenlon will step in at quarterback for graduated three-year starter Kyle Tilley. "Connor had a great off-season; he knew from the moment our season ended in November that this was his opportunity, and he's made the most of it."

 "A year ago, Kyle had an ankle injury that slowed him down all season. We want to get more rushing production out of the quarterback position this season with Connor healthy and more than capable."

 Frankie Brown showed flashes at running back a year ago and scored the go-ahead touchdown in a quarterfinal win over Goffstown. "Frankie is going to start on both sides of the ball," said his head coach. "He deserved more carries a year ago, but we were loaded at the position. He's going to get them now."

 Kevin Tilley, who returns as a three-year starter at safety, and Brooks Connor, will also get a good amount of carries in the backfield, while Jacob Magri will start at tight end on a new-look offensive line.

 "Depth is always an issue on the line, and we were fortunate to stay healthy a year ago," said Francouer. "That group will need to develop as the season goes along. I like what I have seen so far."

 All-state performer Jake Fredericks returns as a senior captain and will anchor a line that will include Jason Pinnsonault at center and Jack Hogan.

 Daniel Blankenship and Tate Goucher will immediately step in and play at wide receiver. "We will still take our shots down the field, and I like the speed of our receiving group."

 Tilley will lead the Warriors secondary at safety while Fredericks will line up at defensive tackle alongside Magri at defensive end.

 The linebacking group may have been the strength of the 11-1 Warriors a year ago. Replacing them will be a group led by Brown at inside linebacker and Connors playing alongside him.

 "We still have a lot of position battles, so we'll see how that all shakes out," said Francouer. "We have a very tough schedule, and the kids have embraced that. They have the mentality that they want to go up against the best in the state, and as coaches, we love to see that."

 The Division II defending champion Timberlane Owls return to the division with nineteen seniors and a group ready to compete for a playoff berth under head coach Kevin Fitzgerald.

"We have a group of seniors that, a few of them, were forced into action as freshmen when we went 0-9 in Division I. So they know the physicality of this league and understand the level they will need to reach now that they are bigger and better athletes."

 The Owls return four of five starters on the offensive line and have skill players who played in last year's championship game victory over Milford.

 "The kids haven't really mentioned moving back up to Division I," said Fitzgerald. "That's not their mentality or the way they think. They just know football has started, and they show up every day to get better."

 Quarterback Dominic Coppeta started most of the season before a leg injury sidelined him for the playoff run. He's healthy again and brings his even-keeled nature to the huddle. "He doesn't get too high or too low," said Fitzgerald. "He's put the work in over the off-season with (former NHsportspage player of the year and UNH quarterback) Trevor Knight and gives us the ability to throw the ball and get rushing production from the position."

 Gary Shivell, who started in Coppeta's place last season, will back up one of the team's strongest positions and start at defensive back. "We have a sophomore and a freshman we like a lot, so quarterback is certainly an area of strength for us."

 Eddie DiGiulio returns to the backfield and will get the bulk of the carries as Dan Post works his way back from an injury suffered in the playoffs a year ago. They'll be joined by freshman Liam Corman, who has had a good pre-season.

 Jayden Mwangi, Trey Baker, and Matt Williams all contributed a year ago and made up a solid receiving corps. "We have a group of receivers that have worked with Dominic and played key snaps in playoff games."

 The offensive line should be the team's strongest unit, although they don't boast the depth the group did a year ago. "It starts and can end with your line play, so we are happy to have a big, athletic and experienced group up front," said Fitzgerald.

 Four starters return, led by Niko Langlois (LT), Malikai Colon (LG), Kaleb Moley (Center), Nick Delucia, and Camden Zambrowicz, will anchor an excellent offensive line.

 The defensive line will be led by many of the same names, with 300 lb lineman Logan Sheely. At the same time, Kaleb Moley, Zambrowicz, Braden Perras, Liam Kelley, and Austin Patnaude will all be key contributors at linebacker.

 Shivell will lead the secondary alongside Mwangi, Williams, Baker, and standout Eddie DiGiulio.

 "The kids are ready to go, the challenge for the coaches is getting back up to speed with our Division I opponents' tendencies, but we will play hard and be ready to compete," said Fitzgerald.

 "We know how good these teams are, but we also know how good teams like Milford, Plymouth, and Souhegan are in Division II. Those teams can compete with Division I teams when they're strong."

 Portsmouth-Oyster River narrowly missed out on a playoff berth a year ago (2021 team page) and has enough returning talent to make a run at the post-season again.

 “ We are experienced but still relatively young,” said head coach Brian Pafford. “ We have some key players back, who I think will have really good seasons for us. How the position battles shake out and the younger guys come along will tell you how good we will be.”

 Running back/linebacker Gunner Jackson will be the focal point of an offense that should run the ball effectively behind a veteran offensive line. “ He’s legit,” said Pafford of his all-state performer.

“ He’s our captain, and I think he is set up to have a big year for us on both sides of the ball.”

 Jackson will be joined in the Clipper Cats two back set by Brady Kilroy and Cole McLaughlin.

 Senior Evan Graham and junior Aiden Thomas are battling the starting quarterback job that may run to the end of the preseason. “ They each have their strengths, and at this point, it is a wide-open race to see who starts on opening night.”

 One of the team’s top receivers a year ago, Angus Moss, and Nick Smith will start in the slot for Portsmouth/OR with Daniel Doherty and Payton Robinson.

“ Last year (QB), Will Hindle was able to create a lot of big plays for us. We don’t have that player on this team, so you’ll see us grinding it out more as an offense. We feel like we have the personnel to do that.”

 Junior Max Durkin, a starter on the offensive line going back to his freshmen year, will anchor an experienced unit that includes Chris Edwards, Luke Whisler, Cameron Worster, and all-state wrestler Charlie Turner.

 “ Each of those players has gotten bigger and more athletic over the off-season,” said Pafford of his offensive and defensive line players. “ We will have three seniors and three juniors seeing major time upfront and are happy with how they have performed in the preseason.”

 Jackson will be one of the top linebackers in the state, while Durkin will lead the defensive line alongside Turner, who was named the defensive MVP at the UNH football camp this summer.

 If there is an area of concern early in the preseason, it is an inexperienced secondary. “ We lost a lot from last year’s team, so it is about players able to step in and perform right away.,” said Pafford.

 “ We open with Exeter and Winnacunnet back to back, so we will have to be ready to compete right away.”

  Sometimes the graduation of a player can feel like a lot more than the loss of one spot on the field.

 When you thought of or mentioned Dover football anytime in the last three years, it wouldn't take long before all-state quarterback Darian Lopez-Sullivan's name came up.

 Lopez-Sullivan is playing at a prep school in Florida; in his place, Jackson Carroll and Ryder Aubin are competing for the starting job behind center. "It's been a very even competition early in camp," said head coach Eric Cumba. "We are confident in both players and whoever is not at quarterback will be on the field and very involved in the offense."

 Brady McInnes was the Green Wave's primary ball carrier along with Lopez-Sullivan a year ago and looks primed for an all-state season. "He's looked fantastic in the pre-season," said Cumba. "He is a standout track athlete in the long jump, and you can see he has an extra gear this year that he didn't a year ago."

 Wide receiver Brett Davis feels like a 6th-year senior at this point, but he is in fact, a four-year returning starter and someone Cumba knows he can rely on. "He's a very good football player and someone vital to what we are doing on both sides of the ball."

 Tight end Bryce Carberry returns at tight end and will be joined at the skill position by slot receiver Jacob Bernier.

 Three starters return to the offensive line; Matt Proulx, Kyle Merrill, and Orion Jennison. "We have a big junior class and a good mix of upperclassmen and sophomores who are trying to compete for playing time," said Cumba.

 "I've always said that when you are running a program, you don't want the cupboard ever to be bare. We want upperclassmen with experience, and you get that by having a lot of sophomores and juniors in the mix."

 Nine starters return on defense. Josh Stanley and Matt Proulx will play defensive end while all four linebackers from a year ago return, including Bryce Carberry and Zack McCormack. Caroll, Davis, and Brady McInnis will lead the Green Wave secondary.

 "We have a lot of experience in the program. Players that understand the system and what's expected," said Cumba. "We competed for a playoff spot until the end of the season, and with the expanded playoffs, we certainly expect to be in the mix again."

  A promising Manchester Memorial season was derailed before it really even got going as the team had two games canceled early in the season, ending any hopes to compete for a playoff berth.

 "It was tough to keep the same intensity when you knew your playoff fate has been decided that quickly," said head coach Rob Sturgis. "With the new alignment and new teams in our conference, it feels like a fresh start, and we are excited about that."

 Junior running back Erik Seymore is a bruising back who has started since he was a freshman. He will be joined in the Crusaders backfield by Chase Burris ("He's been really explosive in the pre-season," said Sturgis), Patrick Burke, and Tyler Hall.

 "We're going to look to run the football and take our play-action shots downfield," said Sturgis. "We have eight players back who started a year ago and a lot of confidence in our skill players and offensive line."

 Quarterback Connor McFarland moved over from wide receiver a year ago after he was called into the game due to an injury. He will assume the duties from Day 1 with talented freshmen Giovanni Doria set to back him up.

 “ Connor came in very early in our game against Exeter and ran the offense. Not the ideal team to have to debut against,” joked Sturgis. “ He’s a really good athlete and a team leader as well.”

 Martin Alisandro, whose brother was the former quarterback at Trinity, will lead the wide receiving corps alongside tight end Ethan Vilgrain.

 The line features four returning starters and enough skill & experience to be a strength of the team, led by Adam Jacques, Mene Adumene, Josh Johnonett, Patrick Vachon, and Nick Young.

 "Last year, I thought we rode the momentum wave too much," said Sturgis. "When things went well, we got a little too high, and when they went wrong, we tended to hang our heads. This group has been good about getting on to the next play."

 Mene Adumene and Josh Johnonett will help anchor the defensive line while a talented group of sophomores will compete for snaps at linebacker.

 Alisandro, Burris, and hard-hitting Dan Betancur will lead the Crusaders' secondary.

 "We have been building, and with a lot of experience back, we hope to take that next step as we did two years ago. We start with an excellent Timberlane team, but we feel like we can compete week to week," said Sturgis.

 "There has been a good vibe from the practices. We hope to carry that over to the regular season."

  Spaulding has a young core looking to build confidence as Kevin Hebert enters his fifth season as head coach. "We have seventy kids in the program, so that's a pretty healthy place to be."

"We have good talent at the skill positions, " said Hebert. "Where we need to develop is on the offensive and defensive lines. That's been a major focus of our pre-season practices. You are only as good as the group you have upfront, and it's our job as a coaching staff to have them come together as the season goes along."

 There has been a quarterback battle through camp as Kaiden Melendez and Jacob Enscoe compete for the starting job.

 Emmett Colby is the team's top playmaker and will get most of the carries at running back. "He's very skilled and has looked good here in the pre-season," said Hebert. "We'll find different ways to get him the football."

 Zach Lynch, Cal Azzopardi, and tight end Ned Drena will all be a focal point of an offense that will sometimes be a spread look and, at others, more of a power running set. "We ran a lot of spread last year, but we'll mix it up this season. We feel like we can do that with our personnel."

 Hunter Trueman and Grady Collins will immediately contribute and play alongside an offensive line anchored by TJ Taveras and Drew Pare.

 Taveras will be a key performer on defense along with Garrett Keller on the defensive line, Chris Libby at linebacker, and Alejandro Madera at LB/DB.

 "We had our best off-season since I took over as head coach, and that gives us some early momentum going into the season," said Hebert. "We have a big one, Week 1 against Alvirne, and for us, it's about building good habits and confidence. The kids are working hard, and I like what I've seen here in the pre-season."

 

West Predicted Order

(*- playoff team)

1. Bishop Guertin *

2. Nashua North *

3. Bedford *

4. Keene *

5. Nashua South

6. Goffstown

7. Merrimack

 

 Entering his fifth season as Bishop Guertin's head coach John Trisciani can see the improvement of his players and the strides the Cardinals have made in a short amount of time.

 BG was 1-4 in a Covid shortened 2020 with a very young football team. A year ago, we deemed them 'A year away from contention,' and a 7-2 regular season and playoff appearance confirmed they were right on track.

 In 2022 you can put it in stone that BG will be in the playoffs; it's now about ending others teams' seasons when they arrive. "This group of seniors had a lot of success playing together as freshmen," said Trisciani. "Four years later, they have gotten bigger, they've gotten better, they've learned how to compete against the top teams in the state, and they've done it together."

 "This season is about working to take the next step."

 All-state Quarterback Matt Santosuosso returns, and if you see him on the sidelines, it probably means it's halftime or the game has already been decided. "He's going to play a ton of snaps; we need him out on the field," said his head coach. "We need to do our best to keep him healthy, and the size & shape he came into camp should benefit him as well."

 Santosuosso, the leading rusher in Division I a year ago, is not the only all-state performer in the backfield as 2021's sixth-leading rusher Charlie Bellavance returns after rushing for 915 yards. "He's a workhorse for us. Someone you can give the ball to twenty to twenty-five times a game," said Trisciani.

 Bellavance will be joined in the backfield by Mike MacDonough, who stepped in at quarterback at times a year ago, Ethan Chimielecki, and Hunter Rheaume, who missed most of last season with an injury. "You need depth at that position and have a lot of confidence in that group."

 Jakob Baker returns at tight end and is one of the best two-way players in the state. He will be joined at the skill positions by Cody Symnasky, Gavin Bombara, and Chase Amaral.

 "Jakob is a beast. He's been terrific, and having Hunter (Rheaume) back on defense with Matt (Santosuosso) in the secondary gives us a lot of experience on defense.”

 Three hundred lb. Rocco Geraci will anchor the lines in the trenches, while Baker and Connor Guibord will be featured at defensive end.

 "Expectations are high, and that's exciting. We welcome that as a coaching staff," said Trisciani. "We want to be considered one of the best programs again. Our goal is to compete weekly with the best in the state."

  Nashua North is just two years removed from a championship and should compete to be the last team standing under first-year head coach Chad Zibolis, who takes over for Dante Laurendi after serving as the team's longtime offensive line/offensive coordinator.

 "I came over from Merrimack with Dante, so it's been a real smooth transition with the kids, as far as taking over when he stepped down," said Zibolis. "We kept our staff mostly intact, and with the same coordinators on both sides of the ball, we have been able to hit the ground running."

 2020 player of the year Curtis Harris left some huge shoes to fill a year ago, but Derek Finlay stepped in and threw for 1,134 yards and 11 touchdowns (Player Profile Page) .

 Finlay returns and should be one of the top quarterbacks in the state as a senior.

 "Derek has been great. He's a pure athlete and a terrific baseball player, so we are trying to get him back in the mode of throwing the football and not a baseball," jokes Zibolis. "He brings a lot of confidence, talent, and experience to the position."

 Jordyn Raisanen-Andino will get carries out of the backfield along with Amaury Almonte, from whom Zibolis expected big things. "He's battled injuries in the past, but this year he has come in healthy and has played terrific. He's going to open a lot of eyes around the state."

 Jack Peters is set for an all-state season at linebacker and will line up as a slot receiver as well. Joining him will be Nick DiGesse, a much improved Xavier Francis, and Steven Rosario. "We like the depth we have at the skill positions," said Zibolis. "That's a group we have a lot of confidence in."

 Position battles were still being waged in the trenches as all-state standout Toby Brown anchors the offensive line alongside Darius Smith and Melvin Fernandez. "We need to work on coming together as an offensive line, but in our first scrimmage against (defending champion) Londonderry, I was very pleased with how we performed."

 Brown will be a force on the defensive side, as well as both Jack Peters at inside linebacker and younger brother Luke Peters playing outside linebacker.

 “ Toby has been outstanding, I’m really excited for the year he’s about to have,” said Zibolis. “ He is a difference maker for us and a great leader as well.”

 "We have had very good pre-season and will have to be ready in Week 1 against an excellent Bedford team," said Zibolis. "Where we ran the ball on almost every down two years ago, we will be more balanced as far as pass/run.”

“ It's a good group, and we are excited to compete week to week."

 No combination of quarterback to wide receiver hooked up more often last season than Bedford’s all-state quarterback Joe Mikol and Division I receiving leader Andrew Grudinskas.

 With a talented core returning and underclassmen moving into more prominent roles, the word that comes up most often when you talk to head coach Zach Matthews is ‘balance.’

“ We return four starters on offense and six on defense, which are healthy numbers, but a lot of players who saw a good amount of playing time are also returning. We feel like there will be several different players leading us week to week.”

 Junior Danny Black will step into the starting quarterback role vacated by Mikol, who was a three-starter. “ Danny was the starting quarterback on the JV team a year ago, so he understands the system and how to run the huddle,” said Matthews. “ He’s coming along well here in the pre-season.”

 Matthews expects Evan Cibotti to play quarterback at times, giving the Bulldogs a dual-threat quarterback in the backfield. “ Evan is someone we want to get the ball to, and he gives us some depth at the position.”

 Leading rusher Logan Sfeir returns and will see the bulk of the carries along with junior Leger Russell. “ We have always had a two-back system where we try to split the carries and not wear any one player down,” said Matthews. “ We have a good group competing for carries.”

 Tight end/defensive end Cal McAuliffe is set for a big senior season on both sides of the ball.

 McAuliffe has grown to 6’5 230 lbs and gives Black a big target on 3rd down. “ We are expecting big things from Cal,” said Matthews. “ He’s developed his game and has looked terrific in the pre-season.”

 Colby Snow returns to the WR/RB position alongside Dylan Soden. “We have several players fighting for playing time at the skill positions. That’s led to some very competitive practices.”

 Jacob Benn and Spencer Henrichon return as starters and anchor the offensive line. At the same time, McAuliffe and Logan Sfeir will lead the defense at defensive end along with Cibotti and middle linebacker Parker Bromley, who Matthews calls the heart of the team’s defense.

 “ It’s been a fun pre-season, and a big part of that is players emerging as they compete for roles. We have a challenging schedule, and that’s how we want it. We picked up the Maine state champ Thornton Academy, so we are going to be tested every week,” said Matthews.

 “ We are happy with the effort level at practice every day and are excited to get going.”

  There hasn't been much buzz recently about the Keene Blackbirds, but that all changed last October 1st.

 Linwood Patnode's team followed consecutive wins over Alvirne and Windham with a 'wait…..what was the final score?' result over Nashua North. A 33-0 win that officially put Keene back in the conversation.

 "We have put in a lot of work to get the program back on its feet. The kids worked extremely hard to become competitive again," said Patnode. "That win surprised me as much as it did a lot of other people. That night, the breaks went our way against a very good football team."

 Only ten seniors graduated from last year's 5-4 team that narrowly missed the playoffs, but Patnode is very quick to point out just how important that group of seniors was. "I had those kids since they were sophomores, and the work they put in, the effort, the performance...I can't say enough about them."

 "They are going to be difficult to replace."

 Junior quarterback Aidan Tarr returns after starting as a sophomore last season. "We made sure to simplify things for him as he got his feet wet last season," said Patnode. "This year, he comes in with a full understanding of what we are trying to do on offense. We're going to let him spread his swings a little."

 Seamus Howard returns to the starting lineup at running back and will be joined in the backfield by Wyatt Avery. "Seamus was a key player on defense for us a year ago and has played well here in the pre-season."

 The skill positions at wide receiver and tight end will be by committee, with jobs still up for grabs in training camp. "We have some players who are better blockers and others that are faster and better route runners, so we will platoon a couple of groups based on what we are running offensively."

 Patnode expects a big season out of returning lineman Emery Ray ("He has looked terrific in the pre-season.”) and hopes to build depth on a unit hit hard by graduation losses.

 Trey Jewett has had an excellent pre-season and will be joined on defense by Howard, Ray, Jasiah Sales, and newcomer Isaac Nelson, who played soccer last season but has stepped right in and performed well on the football field.

 "We have a big junior class, and we need them to fill the holes left by the seniors from last season," said Patnode. "We made some steroids last season, and I think we earned respect around our division. The hope this season is to continue on that path."

 “When you break down the game it’s all pretty simple,” said Patnode. “ It’s about holding your blocks and getting off of theirs. That’s what we go to work on every day in practice.”

  Nashua South head coach Scott Knight and his staff will need to replace their starting quarterback from a year ago as well as all-state running back Josh Compah, who rushed for 931 yards in 2021.

 Twenty seniors and a strong sophomore class will play critical roles as the Purple Panthers look to get back to playoffs.

 “ We are young in some areas and have a lot of experience in others, so it’s about how the underclassmen perform in more prominent roles this season,” said Knight. “ We have been pleased with what we’ve seen so far.”

 Karsten Lemire steps into the starting quarterback job after backing up Mike Rutstein a year ago. “ He has a good combination of being able to throw the ball and make plays with his legs,” said Knight. “He just needs game experience, but he certainly has what it takes to do a very good job for us.”

 There are questions regarding who will step into the lead running back role, so Knight sees an RB by committee to begin the season. Tanner Poloski, Damien Perez, and Alvin Pascual will all see time in the backfield.

 “ We need to get into our scrimmages before we know how that position will shake out, but we certainly have confidence in the players competing for those jobs.”

 Keith O’Donnell and Kyle Emmons, a sophomore who has had a very good pre-season, will see time at slot receiver, while Nate Smith and sophomores Samson Akotey & Diego Caberea will also contribute right away.

 “ The sophomore group has come on over the off-season, and it has led to a lot of good position battles in the pre-season,” said Knight.

 Jake O’Connor is poised for an all-state season at both tight end and linebacker, while Tony Martinez, another TE/LB, is one of the most improved players on the roster. “ Jake looks terrific,” said Knight. “ He’s going to play a major role for us, and Tony had dramatically improved over the off-season. We are excited about that group.”

 Two three-year starters, Colby (CJ) Vancelette and Matt Harding, will anchor the offensive line.

 O’Connor and Cody Goode will lead the defense from the linebacker spot and be joined on that side of the ball by Benito Medellin, Connor Comeau, Alvin Pascual, Nate Smith, Hayden Leone, and Keith O’Donnell.

 All of which gives Pete Tarrier’s alma mater a good shot at playing in the post-season come November. “ We had a terrific off-season in the weight room,” said Knight. “ We averaged about forty kids a day, and that’s a great sign.”

 “ I also reminded them this wasn’t the weightlifting team,” joked Knight. “ We need to bring it to the field. Early on, we like what we have seen.”

  The Goffstown Grizzlies have been one of the most consistent football programs in the state over the past ten seasons and should compete for one of the division's thirteen playoff spots.

 The loss of eighteen seniors from a year ago means Nick Hammond's team is preaching the long game in the pre-season. "We graduated an excellent class, and so the focus is on players stepping into new roles and making sure we bring great energy to the field every day as we work to get better," said Hammond. "I've liked what I've seen from this group in the pre-season."

 Josh Webb returns at quarterback after throwing for 1,000 yards a year ago. "He's been outstanding," said Hammond. "He has full control over the offense and has looked good in practice."

 Sophomore Jayden Pares is competing for time at quarterback and will see time at wide receiver when not behind center. "He gives us a combination of skills, and we want to try and get the ball in his hands."

 Vincent Ruiz and Will Patenaude will split carries in the backfield while tight end Luke Lavalierre plus wide receivers Gavin Philbrook and Perez will lead the Grizzlies at the skill positions.

 "I'm high on that group," said Hammond of his new starters. "They've run the same system since middle school, but they are picking up the nuances we have at the varsity level. It's been a group that we see getting better by the week."

 Danny Leclair and Kyle Gregoire will anchor the offensive and defensive lines. At the same time, Patenaude (S), Philbrook (CB), Tyler Smedick (ILB), Jay Obando, and Danny Leclair will lead a new-look Grizzlies defense.

 "The defensive line has performed well in the pre-season, and I see our defense starting to come together," said Hammond. "We are going to work to get better every game, and if we can stay healthy, we have a very good chance to compete for a playoff spot again."

 Kip Jackson’s Merrimack Tomahawks, coming off a 3-6 season, will need to replace seven starters on defense and eight on offense, including the all-state duo of quarterback Kyle Crampton and wide receiver Shea Goodwin.

 “ Depth has been an issue for us since the Covid year (2020),” said Jackson. “ We have some players with experience returning, and how the underclassman fill new roles will tell you a lot about the kind of season we’re going to have.”

 Trent Jackson will compete for the starting quarterback job against sophomore Sahil Mujawar. “They both bring different strengths to the position,” said Jackson. “ Trent has the upper hand early in the pre-season, but I see both players helping us this season.”

 Leading rusher Reimello Hyde returns (“He’s had an excellent pre-season,” said Jackson) and will be joined in the backfield by Garron Brown and Aiden Centrella.

 Tight end/defensive end Ryan Turley is set for a big season and will play alongside wide receivers Owen Sadowski and Logan Day. “ I like the group we have; we just have to stay healthy and develop more depth at the skill positions,” said Jackson of his new starters.

 All five linemen from a year ago graduated. Leading the new-look Tomahawks in the trenches will be Zach Rezaoui and Jason Duke. “ It’s an open competition for spots on the lines,” said Jackson. “ That’s been a real focus here in the pre-season.”

 Hyde is set for an all-state season at linebacker, while Turley (DE/DL), Jack Thornton (DE), Brown, and Sadowski will lead the defense.

 “ We’re happy with the new schedule and for the opportunity to be playing a team from Maine,” said Jackson. “ It’s a good opportunity for teams to face each other that haven’t been on the field together in some time.”

 

 Central Predicted Order

 (* playoff team)

1. Londonderry *

2. Pinkerton Academy *

3. Windham *

4. Salem *

5. Concord

6. Manchester Central

7. Alvirne

 

 A year ago, I would have told you the Londonderry Lancers would be the Division I favorite going into the 2022 season.

 I would not have told you that they would go into this season as the defending champions.

 2021 Team Page

 "I never looked at us as the favorites, at any time, last season," said head coach Jimmy Lauzon who has won two championships at the school. "We clicked at the right time of year and had players step up and play well when their teammate went out with an injury."

 The Lancers know they are the favorites. Lauzon makes it clear that while they don't deny the public sentiment, they are also not buying into it. "Perception is not reality, and I've been involved with football long enough to remember a lot of teams in our position who weren't able to get it done."

 "I thought our division was a little top-heavy a year ago, but I do not think that's the case this season," said Lauzon. "I see a lot of teams that have been building towards this season, and I expect a wide-open race in our division."

 Drew Heenan stepped in for starting quarterback Aidan Washington a year ago when Washington was lost to an injury. This year it's his offense to run, and Lauzon has watched his signal caller do all the right things over the off-season to point the Lancers in the right direction.

 "Drew wants football to be in his future, both as a player and someday as a coach," said Lauzon. "He studies film like one of our staff, and when we communicate with him on the field, we speak the same language."

 "He's been phenomenal in his preparation and as a leader. Aidan showed him how to lead a team, and he has followed in his footsteps, just like the next quarterback hopefully will follow in his."

 Jake Schena returns at running back after rushing for 503 yards and four touchdowns a year ago  Player Profile Page . He will be joined in the backfield by Andrew Soucy ("He's a big strong back for us, tough to take down," said Lauzon) and Jake Perron, who Lauzon also voiced confidence in.

 There is depth to be added at the wide receiver spot, but Lauzon is pleased with his top-line receivers and their leadership in the pre-season.

 Andrew Kullman, last seen hauling in a huge touchdown throw in the championship game victory over Winnacunnet, is set for an all-state season along with Trevor Weinmann and Kyle McPhail. "We feel really good about them as a unit. They've picked up where they left off as far as their play on the field, leadership, and understanding of our system."

 Mike Sampson and Ryan Pemberton will anchor the offensive line along with Jason Senus and all-state defensive lineman Ty Miles, who will play mostly defense but also see some time on the offensive line.

 Sampson and Miles will lead that defensive line and the defense along with Pemberton & Senus. "We have good leadership at all three levels of the defense," said Lauzon.

 With a schedule that includes games against Pinkerton, Salem, Winnacunnet, Bishop Guertin, and a Bishop Hendricken team that might be the best in Rhode Island, the Lancers will be tested regularly.

 Meaning if they can get back to the championship again, they will be fully battle-tested when they arrive.

 "Our focus is all on Concord right now," said Lauzon, of the team's Week 1 opponent. "We will work to get better and build depth as we go. I see a wide-open race, and we hope to contend again."

 No conversation takes place regarding the contenders in Division I without the Pinkerton Academy Astros being a prominent part of the discussion.

 Hall of Fame head coach Brian O'Reilly's team was 7-2 last season but was beaten by arch-rival Londonderry 25-13 in the playoffs.

 A rivalry that once resembled a lawnmower versus grass has evened out, with Londonderry winning two championships in the last three years and five straight in the Mack Plague series.

 All of which gives you the sense that the Astros are tired of hearing about the fire truck-led parades down the road.

 With four all-state level running backs and depth on defense, Pinkerton has a good chance to bring the title back to their side of town.

 "They are working hard and willing to learn," said Brian O'Reilly of his team. "We have players that need to be replaced on the offensive line, but I've been pleased with what we have seen so far."

 Tim Hersom takes over as quarterback for the graduated Nate Campos and should bring a passing threat to the offense.

 He will be joined in a loaded backfield by all-state performers Cole Yennaco (951 yards rushing a year ago), Jacob Albert (502 yards), Caden Michaud & Matt Morrison. "We have several of our captains in our running back group, so obviously, it's a position we have a lot of confidence in," said O'Reilly.

 Ben Wolthers and Ezra Alvarez will contribute right away at the wide receiver position, while Adam Day returns at center for a new-look offensive line.

 Yennaco, Albert, and Michaud play on both sides of the ball and lead a defense with a lot of experience. "The players know the system, and we have players who contributed last year back. We expect to be in it again."

 As is often the case with teams, Windham’s 1-8 2021 regular season was not as dire as the record suggests.

 Four of the Jaguars eight losses were by one score or less, and in the team’s last two games, they battled Nashua South and playoff-bound Bishop Guertin to the wire.

 Jack Byrne’s team made it their mission to win the off-season, dedicating themselves to weight, speed, and agility training. All of which makes them a very good bet to be one of the most improved teams in the division this season.

 “ The kids have been preparing for this long before pre-season officially began a few weeks ago,” said longtime Windham coach Jack Bryne. “ The kids have been locked in, and we are seeing a difference on the field when we go to practice.”

 Quarterback Josh Sweeney is much improved after starting last season and is ready for a big season. “ He’s really developed and understands what we are trying to accomplish on offense. We have a lot of confidence in Josh.”

 Leading rusher Tiger An also returns and may be one of the best running backs in the state. “He’s very intense in his workouts and has looked very good here in the pre-season,” said Bryne.

 Joining Sweeney and An at the skill positions will be a talented group that includes Bryan Desmarais, Jake Micciche, David Croteau, and Brandon Beland. “ The skill positions are probably the group we have seen the most improvement in, year to year,” said Bryne. “ Depth is so important, and at times in the past, we haven’t had that luxury. We certainly do with this group.”

 Offensive coordinator Matt Case has a group with enough skill and speed to spread the ball around.

 There is also experience on an offensive line led by all-state performer Aidan Goss and Joe Lisa, a group coached by Josh’s father, Mike Sweeney.

 Goss will lead the Jaguars defensive line along with Henry Ntoro, Beland, and Desmarais.

 “ We have an outstanding group of teams around us, teams like Pinkerton, Salem, and Timberlane that we have to prove ourselves against,” said Bryne. “ The kids have been coming to work hard every day, and they’re excited to compete this season.”

 Steve Abraham's Salem Blue Devils have established themselves as one of the state's premier football programs. Even with the loss of a big senior class, they should contend for an eighth consecutive playoff appearance.

 "We have over one hundred players in the program, and those numbers come predominantly from the freshman and sophomore classes," said Abraham. "The future is very bright, but we have an excellent class from a year ago we need to replace. That has called for more teaching this pre-season, and we as a coaching staff have to have the underclassman ready to step in against Manchester Central on opening night."

 Nolan Lumley will step into the quarterback role and brings all the attributes you're looking for in the Blue Devils Wing-T offense. "He's very athletic and a good runner," said Abraham. "He's played well in the pre-season for us."

 Fullback David Jacques is one of the best players in the state at his position ("He's been terrific in camp, he looks great," said Abraham) and will be joined by Justice Casado and as many as nine-backs that will form a running back by committee.

 "Last year, with Aidan McDonald (1,031 yards rushing) and Tommy Ahlers (842), we had two workhorses that saw the majority of the carries. This year it will be spreading the carries amongst a group of backs we see a lot of potential in," said Abraham.

 "There is a lot more competition in camp where last year we had most of the positions set when we came into camp. That's produced some very good practices."

 Tight end Josh Brady has stood out in camp and is primed for an all-state season, while Sam Jones is also expected to produce right away.

 The offensive line should be a strength, with 300 lb. Trevor Darisse leading the way. "He's an outstanding athlete and will make a big impact on us."

 Darisse will anchor a line that includes converted tight end Luke Sacco and Josh Mangion. "Those guys just explode off the ball; they have come together as a unit, and with a younger team this year, they will lead the way."

 Josh Brady will lead the secondary at safety, while Danny Hughes (MLB) and Matt Doyle (DL) will be standouts on a new-look Salem defense.

 "We have told the kids from Day 1, 'stay the course and keep getting better every day. We have new players in key roles, but we feel like we can be a very tough out by November. If we can make the playoffs again, we feel like we will be a team that will be tough to beat."

 Concord was a much-improved football team a year ago, and with eight starters back on both sides of the ball, head coach James Corkum has the program headed toward playoff contention in 2022.

 “ We had a great off-season, and things are starting to get back to normal after a couple of challenging years for everyone,” said Corkum. “ We were more competitive last year but still have much to improve. The kids have come in working hard and ready to get us there.”

 Zack Doward returns at quarterback after throwing for 589 yards and four touchdowns a year ago (Player profile page). “ He has improved. He is picking up what’s in front of him and has played well in the pre-season,” said Corkum.

 Running back, Elia Bahuma was set to be one of the team’s primary ball carriers a year ago, but an injury sidelined him for the year. “ He is completely healthy again and has looked really good,” said Corkum. “ I think he is going to have a big season running the football.”

 Tight end Austin Wells should be set up for a big season on offense and at defensive end, while Matt O’Rourke and Divon Duncan give the Tide a pair of talented receivers. “ We will move Divon between the slot (receiver) and running back to get him touches.”

 Noah Blake has transformed into a big physical lineman after a winter in the weight room and will anchor the offensive line alongside Nate Feudner. “ That is a group that has made a lot of progress,” notes Corkum. “ They have gotten stronger in the off-season.”

 Wells and Duncan (Safety) will lead an improved defense along with linebacker Oscar Humelsine-Perez.

 “ We have players that now have a full year of varsity starting experience,” said Corkum. “ We need to learn how to win and after last season, we understand that takes four quarters.”

 “ Our goal as a team was to come in bigger and in better shape to close out games, and I think we have done that. Now it’s about getting it done on the field.”

 There is optimism at Manchester Central, where things are beginning to feel normal after two years of starts and stops. “ The kids are excited to be playing and to compete again,” said head coach Ryan Ray. “ It’s been a tough stretch for everyone, but we have had a very good mindset here in the pre-season.”

 Ray expects Liam Murphy, a senior converted wide receiver, and sophomore Cayden Salvi to see time at quarterback early in the season. “Liam has done a nice job here in the pre-season,” said Ray. “ Cayden is more of your traditional quarterback, and he is going to be a good one for us.”

 Kdin Preston battled a should injury a year ago and still had a strong season. The running back is healthy again, and his head coach is excited about the season he’s about to have. “ I’d put him among the top tier of running backs in our division,” said Ray.

 Owen Kelley gives the Little Green a big/physical receiver and will play alongside senior Ethan Holmes. “ Those are two players who are going to help us on both sides of the ball,” said Ray.

 The Central defense will be led by Khari Whitehead, Jacob Wong, and Johnny Pellerin.

 “ It’s been a fun group to coach, and we’re excited to start the season.”

  Alvirne has struggled since moving back to Division I after a very good two-year run in Division II that included a championship game appearance in 2019.

 Numbers, or a lack thereof, have been the culprit, but twenty-eight freshmen in the program offer some optimism to head coach Tarek Rothe and his veteran staff. “ We have twenty-eight freshmen and a lot of underclassmen that are going to see a good amount of playing time,” said Rothe. “ It’s about building around that group and our eight seniors.”

 Zach Peters returns at quarterback after finishing last season as the starter. He will be joined in the backfield by Cam Kennedy and Aiden Mills, a speedster who is still raw but offers a lot of potential.

 Wide receiver should be a strength with the return of Cole Bucknam and tight end Ryan Rocheleau, who Rothe expects big things from as he fills the role of graduated all-state tight end Brendan Graham. “ Ryan is the strongest player we have and has transformed himself over the off-season,” said Rothe. “ I expect him to have a very good season.”

 Three team captains will anchor the offensive line; Geoff Keegan, Connor Gibson, Cam Porter, align with sophomore center Devin Scott. Another talented sophomore, Liam Bowie will also step in and contribute immediately. “ We have very good leadership with that group,” said Rothe.

 Porter (DE), safety Colin Hay and Gabe Conrow, who has had an excellent camp, will be among the team leaders on defense.

 “ We play Spaulding on opening night, and that’s our focus,” said Rothe. “ A lot of sophomores and juniors are going to play key roles. It’s about staying healthy and developing our underclassmen as the season progresses.”

 

Coming tomorrow: Division II