2011 Record: 2-5 SAL, 2-8 Overall

Head Coach: Rich Goodman (1st year)

Assistants: Ron Brace, Morrison Ellio, Joe Crabtree, Jim Merriam, Jim Shehan, Nick deKalaita, Darrin Allen, Rick Kindle

Top Returners: Cody Shannon, Xavier Valle, Nick Mirza, Conor Sosa

Newcomers: Trey Howze, Caleb Johnson, Adam Rudd

It’s a new season for Denair High. The Coyotes have a new Head Coach and new systems on offense and defense but when it comes to Denair football some things never change, like low numbers.

There are only 18 players on the Varsity squad this season, six of which have Varsity experience, so it’s crucial that the Coyotes avoid injury. Players will also have to pull double duty, playing on both offense and defense and in some cases at multiple positions, so conditioning will be a factor, particularly on defense.

Denair’s new pistol offense is a high risk-reward system with the potential to either put a lot of points on the board or leave their defense on the field for long periods of time. Success will depend on the comprehension and execution of junior quarterback Trey Howze and his two primary weapons Nick Mirza and Caleb Johnson. Howze, who helped lead the JV Coyotes to a 7-2 season last year, will operate behind a small but speedy offensive line that will rely on mobility to move the ball.

With low numbers and limited Varsity experience to work with Coach Goodman is stressing simplicity to his team. Along with the new offense, Denair’s defense has been reshuffled to a gap responsive system which should make it easier for players who will be asked to fill multiple roles.

The truth is Denair will have to test their new team in game time situations in order to gauge its effectiveness. The first few games will be a trial by fire for the Coyotes who will be forced to make adjustments on the fly if they are to avoid another losing season.