Versatility key to Planets' fortunes
ADAMS TWP — It is often said that football games at all levels are won in the trenches.
That's why Mars' chances for a successful 2015 season are in good hands.
On offense, the team returns C.J. Ciafre at center, Hunter Cooper at guard/tackle and Alex Tumminello at guard. Tumminello has two previous seasons as a starter under his belt while Cooper and Ciafre both started last year.
The other spots on the line are up for grabs, but Ciafre is confident whoever wins those jobs will mesh well with the veterans.
“The younger guys have stepped up so far,” he said. “Hopefully, they can keep it going. Everything in this (Wing-T) offense is based on angles. Keep the guy in front of you, make sure you have good footwork and technique.”
The line will be blocking for new leaders at the skill positions this season.
Senior Sam Morrissey takes over at quarterback after serving as Jake Rosswog's backup a season ago. The former threw for 90 yards and a touchdown in the Planets' 28-13 loss to Thomas Jefferson in the WPIAL Class AAA quarterfinals.
At 6-foot, 185 pounds, Heinauer sees Morrissey as a perfect fit for the offense.
“He's athletic and agile,” said Heinauer. “He has improved his passing and throws the ball extremely well. He makes quick decisions and that should benefit us.”
Junior Isaiah Johnson could be the next in a long line of great fullbacks for the Planets. Mars graduated 1,000-yard rusher Ori Rinaman, opening the door for Johnson, who rushed for 506 yards, five touchdowns and more than six yards per carry a season ago.
The offense's wingback positions are being battled for by seniors Eli Brooks, Josh Raymundo and junior Max Chizmar. Brooks tallied 184 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns before a knee injury in the fifth game cut short his junior campaign.
Sophomore Robby Carmody is not playing football this fall and his deep threat ability will be missed. He averaged 40.8 yards on eight receptions and scored five touchdowns as a freshman, but appears to be focusing on basketball.
The Planets have just 39 players on the varsity roster, their lowest total in years.
“It is what it is,” said Heinauer. “We need to operate with the kids who are here and want to play.”
Like the offensive line, the defensive front returns much talent. Seniors Nate Sablowski and John Castello return to play tackle and end, respectively.
“Both are three-year starters,” said Heinauer. “They are very athletic and long-armed kids. Last year, they combined for 15 tipped passes.”
Junior Caleb Brake will handle the placekicking and punting duties. His sophomore season included a 43-yard field goal.
“I'm confident with him out to 45,” said Heinauer. “He is in line with the best kickers we've had here.”
The Greater Allegheny Conference should be very competitive once again.
“Franklin Regional lost one starter and they have to be the favorite to win the conference,” said Heinauer. “(Knoch head coach) Mike King will keep them in it and Gateway has all the athletes you could want. I don't know what to expect from Armstrong (following the consolidation of Kittanning and Ford City high schools).
