BLOOMINGTON SOUTH FOOTBALL: Welcome
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Feb. 15
Aaron Price and Earnie Morris have have been voted by coaches to the Region 10 team of the Indiana Football Coaches Association, which makes them eligible for the South All-Star team.
Price was voted on as an offensive tackle and Morris as a defensive back. Price played both ways at tackle this year but spent most of his time on the offensive side. Morris was a two-way player who had an exceptional year at wide receiver as well as defense.
The South team will be voted on early in March.
ETNIER TO INDIANA STATE, BLACKWELL TO IU
By Rex Kirts
Marcus Etnier latched onto a full ride scholarship and a big challenge, and David Blackwell decided to stay home and make the most of an opportunity.
Etnier will take his quarterback skills to Indiana State, which was winless last year, while Blackwell will accept a preferred walk-on role at IU, which also stumbled a bit.
Etnier started 2 1/2 years for the Panthers and put up big passing and rushing numbers in the spread offense. A physical player with a strong arm, he even got in a few plays at linebacker late this past season. This year he passed for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns and rushed for nine TDs for the 8-3 Panthers.
"I picked Indiana State because of the full ride," Etnier said. "I've got a good chance to play next year, I really like the coach, it's close to home."
Trent Miles took over the Sycamores' program last year but couldn't stop the downward slide they've been in. He ended up playing 14 freshmen.
"The quarterback was a walk-on DB," Etnier said., "so they're in need of a quarterback." The Sycamores signed at least one other quarterback, Matt King of Rockville.
Etnier if familiar with a couple of other ISU signees, running back Tanner Riley and defensive end Eric Dietl of Center Grove, which ended South's season in the sectional.
Etnier, a sub on South's unbeaten, No. 1-ranked basketball team, didn't look at many schools. "Eastern Kentucky, Indianapolis and a few D3 schools," he said. "I wanted Indiana State because it was the highest level I could play at, and I think I can play next year."
He's unsure what he'll study.
Blackwell had been a full-time outside linebacker and part-time running back until this year, when he played offense almost exclusively and had an outstanding year carrying and catching the fooball. He led the team in rushing with 1,322 yards and 10 TDs and was second in receiving with 26 catches for 322 yards and two TDs.
He passed up athletic and academic scholarship offers at other schools to have the chance to play for the Hoosiers.
"There are a lot of reasons, actually, why I picked IU," Blackwell said. "It's in town, I think I can play, I know a lot of the staff, and they think I can play." Another plus is he'll room with Panther teammate Aaron Price.
"I wanted to play at the highest level I can," Blackwell added. "I think I can play at IU, and being in the Big Ten is awesome."
Where Blackwell will play is uncertain. It might be at safety or running back, and he seems a perfect fit for special teams.
"I've been working with their strength coach for three years, and he thinks I can play running back or fullback. I have to put on more weight to play fullback," Blackwell said. "I'll do whatever I can do to get on the field. I'll probably have to start out on special teams."
Blackwell is uncertain what he'll study.
STANCOMBE TO IOWA; PRICE SWITCHES TO IU
By Rex Kirts
Ben Stancombe suffered on the football sidelines with an injury this season, but the track scholarship he got to Iowa has helped his spirit.
Aaron Price is feeling pretty good, too, after giving up a football scholarship at Miami of Ohio for one at Indiana.
Stancombe was set to be an anchor of South's defense at outside linebacker, but he suffered a shoulder separation in pre-season practice and missed the rest of the year.
"It was rough," Stancombe said of sitting out. "The games were really tough to watch."
Iowa stuck with him, however. Along with a scholarship that will pay about half his bills, some academic money puts him in good shape.
Iowa discovered Stanbombe, who shot puts and throws the discus, because it's throwing coach, Scott Cappos, is a former IU thrower who knows IU coaches Wil Fleming and Ryan Ketchum. In addition to Iowa, Stancombe was interested in IU, Purdue and Louisville.
"I kind of wanted to get out of town a little bit," Stancombe said of taking the Hawkeyes' offer. "I love the campus, and Iowa City reminds me a lot of Bloomington. And I really like the coaches."
Stancombe, small for a thrower at 5-9 and 210 pounds,finished fifth in the shot but scratched out of the discus in the state track meet last year. He finished fourth in the hammer throw in the Nike Nationals in June, and he feels the hammer will be his best event in college. His best in the shot is 58-0 1/2 and 170-6 in the discus.
"The hammer is my favorite event," he said.
His shoulder is improving. "There's just a little bit of soreness but not bad."
Stancombe will study chemistry at Iowa.
Price had an outstanding season at offensive tackle for the Panthers and midway through the season added defense to his responsibilities. He was set for Miami but hadn't signed a letter of intent.
Indiana came calling before Christmas. About the same time Miami's coach was fired.
Indiana hadn't recruited Price originally, but a spot opened up when offensive lineman Dennis Ziegler was dismissed from the team.
"I talked it over with my family, about where I'd be happiest," Price said. The agreement was IU. "It wasn't much fun telling Miami I was switching commitments, but it's what I had to do," he said.
Indiana is thinking of playing Price at guard but maybe switching him to center once he learns the offense.
The Hoosiers struggled last year, and Price cnsidered that. "But Miami struggled, too," he said. "They won only two games."
At IU Price will join former Panther Ben Chappell, who shared the quarterback spot last year.
EARNIE MORRIS TO EASTERN ILLINOIS
By Rex Kirts
Earnie Morris was a standout wide receiver and defensive back, and he returned punts and kickoffs. He seldom left the field.
Eastern Illinois noticed Morris' quality production and recently offered the South senior a full scholarship. It was the first offer Morris received, and he gladly accepted it.
Eastern, located in Charleston, is known as the school where Tony Romo played quarterback before making the Dallas Cowboys. Former Panther Matt Muehling also played there a few years ago.
"I had an unofficial visit there, and it felt right," Morris said. "It was the only scholarship offer I've had, and I just took it. It's a full ride."
Morris liked Charlestown, which is about an hour west of Terre Haute, and liked the coaches.
"Me and coach Bob Babich talked a lot," Morris said. "Bob Spoo (former Purdue quarterback) is the head coach. They made me feel pretty comfortable."
There's an opportunity to play right away. "Coach Babich told me if he could he'd give me a jersey right away, that I would play next year. He told me I'd be the fastest receiver on the team."
As big a threat as he was offensively, Morris said he was thinking about playing defense in college. But he was recruited as a receiver.
"I prefer defense, though," Morris grinned. "Defense is a lot more physical. Offense is more about not hitting instead of delivering a hit."
A :10.9 sprinter, Morris led the team in receiving and scoring and was fourth in rushing. he caught 40 passes for 860 yards (21.5) and three touchdowns and carried 20 times for 120 yards (6.0) and three TDs. He scored 78 points, including five touchdowns at Bloomington North.
"Eastern is a nice fit for me," Morris added. "I'm pretty excited."
His current concern is improving his grades so he's eligible next year. "I'm pretty focused on that," Morris said. He's undecided on what to study at Eastern.
Feb. 15
Aaron Price and Earnie Morris have have been voted by coaches to the Region 10 team of the Indiana Football Coaches Association, which makes them eligible for the South All-Star team.
Price was voted on as an offensive tackle and Morris as a defensive back. Price played both ways at tackle this year but spent most of his time on the offensive side. Morris was a two-way player who had an exceptional year at wide receiver as well as defense.
The South team will be voted on early in March.
ETNIER TO INDIANA STATE, BLACKWELL TO IU
By Rex Kirts
Marcus Etnier latched onto a full ride scholarship and a big challenge, and David Blackwell decided to stay home and make the most of an opportunity.
Etnier will take his quarterback skills to Indiana State, which was winless last year, while Blackwell will accept a preferred walk-on role at IU, which also stumbled a bit.
Etnier started 2 1/2 years for the Panthers and put up big passing and rushing numbers in the spread offense. A physical player with a strong arm, he even got in a few plays at linebacker late this past season. This year he passed for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns and rushed for nine TDs for the 8-3 Panthers.
"I picked Indiana State because of the full ride," Etnier said. "I've got a good chance to play next year, I really like the coach, it's close to home."
Trent Miles took over the Sycamores' program last year but couldn't stop the downward slide they've been in. He ended up playing 14 freshmen.
"The quarterback was a walk-on DB," Etnier said., "so they're in need of a quarterback." The Sycamores signed at least one other quarterback, Matt King of Rockville.
Etnier if familiar with a couple of other ISU signees, running back Tanner Riley and defensive end Eric Dietl of Center Grove, which ended South's season in the sectional.
Etnier, a sub on South's unbeaten, No. 1-ranked basketball team, didn't look at many schools. "Eastern Kentucky, Indianapolis and a few D3 schools," he said. "I wanted Indiana State because it was the highest level I could play at, and I think I can play next year."
He's unsure what he'll study.
Blackwell had been a full-time outside linebacker and part-time running back until this year, when he played offense almost exclusively and had an outstanding year carrying and catching the fooball. He led the team in rushing with 1,322 yards and 10 TDs and was second in receiving with 26 catches for 322 yards and two TDs.
He passed up athletic and academic scholarship offers at other schools to have the chance to play for the Hoosiers.
"There are a lot of reasons, actually, why I picked IU," Blackwell said. "It's in town, I think I can play, I know a lot of the staff, and they think I can play." Another plus is he'll room with Panther teammate Aaron Price.
"I wanted to play at the highest level I can," Blackwell added. "I think I can play at IU, and being in the Big Ten is awesome."
Where Blackwell will play is uncertain. It might be at safety or running back, and he seems a perfect fit for special teams.
"I've been working with their strength coach for three years, and he thinks I can play running back or fullback. I have to put on more weight to play fullback," Blackwell said. "I'll do whatever I can do to get on the field. I'll probably have to start out on special teams."
Blackwell is uncertain what he'll study.
Feb. 15
Aaron Price and Earnie Morris have have been voted by coaches to the Region 10 team of the Indiana Football Coaches Association, which makes them eligible for the South All-Star team.
Price was voted on as an offensive tackle and Morris as a defensive back. Price played both ways at tackle this year but spent most of his time on the offensive side. Morris was a two-way player who had an exceptional year at wide receiver as well as defense.
The South team will be voted on early in March.
STANCOMBE TO IOWA; PRICE SWITCHES TO IU
By Rex Kirts
Ben Stancombe suffered on the football sidelines with an injury this season, but the track scholarship he got to Iowa has helped his spirit.
Aaron Price is feeling pretty good, too, after giving up a football scholarship at Miami of Ohio for one at Indiana.
Stancombe was set to be an anchor of South's defense at outside linebacker, but he suffered a shoulder separation in pre-season practice and missed the rest of the year.
"It was rough," Stancombe said of sitting out. "The games were really tough to watch."
Iowa stuck with him, however. Along with a scholarship that will pay about half his bills, some academic money puts him in good shape.
Iowa discovered Stanbombe, who shot puts and throws the discus, because it's throwing coach, Scott Cappos, is a former IU thrower who knows IU coaches Wil Fleming and Ryan Ketchum. In addition to Iowa, Stancombe was interested in IU, Purdue and Louisville.
"I kind of wanted to get out of town a little bit," Stancombe said of taking the Hawkeyes' offer. "I love the campus, and Iowa City reminds me a lot of Bloomington. And I really like the coaches."
Stancombe, small for a thrower at 5-9 and 210 pounds,finished fifth in the shot but scratched out of the discus in the state track meet last year. He finished fourth in the hammer throw in the Nike Nationals in June, and he feels the hammer will be his best event in college. His best in the shot is 58-0 1/2 and 170-6 in the discus.
"The hammer is my favorite event," he said.
His shoulder is improving. "There's just a little bit of soreness but not bad."
Stancombe will study chemistry at Iowa.
Price had an outstanding season at offensive tackle for the Panthers and midway through the season added defense to his responsibilities. He was set for Miami but hadn't signed a letter of intent.
Indiana came calling before Christmas. About the same time Miami's coach was fired.
Indiana hadn't recruited Price originally, but a spot opened up when offensive lineman Dennis Ziegler was dismissed from the team.
"I talked it over with my family, about where I'd be happiest," Price said. The agreement was IU. "It wasn't much fun telling Miami I was switching commitments, but it's what I had to do," he said.
Indiana is thinking of playing Price at guard but maybe switching him to center once he learns the offense.
The Hoosiers struggled last year, and Price cnsidered that. "But Miami struggled, too," he said. "They won only two games."
At IU Price will join former Panther Ben Chappell, who shared the quarterback spot last year.
EARNIE MORRIS TO EASTERN ILLINOIS
By Rex Kirts
Earnie Morris was a standout wide receiver and defensive back, and he returned punts and kickoffs. He seldom left the field.
Eastern Illinois noticed Morris' quality production and recently offered the South senior a full scholarship. It was the first offer Morris received, and he gladly accepted it.
Eastern, located in Charleston, is known as the school where Tony Romo played quarterback before making the Dallas Cowboys. Former Panther Matt Muehling also played there a few years ago.
"I had an unofficial visit there, and it felt right," Morris said. "It was the only scholarship offer I've had, and I just took it. It's a full ride."
Morris liked Charlestown, which is about an hour west of Terre Haute, and liked the coaches.
"Me and coach Bob Babich talked a lot," Morris said. "Bob Spoo (former Purdue quarterback) is the head coach. They made me feel pretty comfortable."
There's an opportunity to play right away. "Coach Babich told me if he could he'd give me a jersey right away, that I would play next year. He told me I'd be the fastest receiver on the team."
As big a threat as he was offensively, Morris said he was thinking about playing defense in college. But he was recruited as a receiver.
"I prefer defense, though," Morris grinned. "Defense is a lot more physical. Offense is more about not hitting instead of delivering a hit."
A :10.9 sprinter, Morris led the team in receiving and scoring and was fourth in rushing. he caught 40 passes for 860 yards (21.5) and three touchdowns and carried 20 times for 120 yards (6.0) and three TDs. He scored 78 points, including five touchdowns at Bloomington North.
"Eastern is a nice fit for me," Morris added. "I'm pretty excited."
His current concern is improving his grades so he's eligible next year. "I'm pretty focused on that," Morris said. He's undecided on what to study at Eastern.
2008 AWARDS PRESENTED
Season awards were presented Sunday night at the auditorium, and senior tailback-outside linebacker David Blackwell walked off with the B-Man award, symbolic of the Most Valuable Player.
Coach Drew Wood gave Captain's awards to five seniors - Blackwell, quarterback Marcus Etnier, two-way tackle Aaron Price, inside linebacker Ryan Beall and inside linebacker Ben Stancombe, who missed the season with a shoulder injury.
All-Conference Indiana honors were earned by Blackwell, Etnier, Price, wide receiver-cornerback Earnie Morris and defensive tackle Brandon Pellmann.
Position awards went to Etnier as the Most Valuable offensive back, Price as the Most Valuable offensive lineman, Morris as the Most Valuable receiver, Beall as the Most Valuable linebacker, Pellmann as the Most Valuable defensive lineman, senior Casey Peck as the Most Valuable defensive back and senior Hillary Whitehead as the Most Valuable special teams player.
Etnier passed for over 6,000 career yards and ran for over 1,200. Pellmann led the team in defensive points this year, Blackwell in rushing and Morris in receiving and scoring. Whitehead made all 46 of her PAT kicks and 3 of 4 field goals and was 74 of 76 on PATs the last two years.
Senior defensive backs Jake Schroeder and John Schunk shared the James Marsh Award for mental attitude. Senior offensive tackle Cameron Ward won the Robert Brown Award for attitude and work ethic.
NEVER TOO SOON TO GET TO WORK
By Rex Kirts
If South wants to compete with the football big guys, such as Center Grove, now might be a good time to get to work.
True, the Panthers finished with an 8-3 record, which isn't bad. But they lost to Center Grove, 56-14, in the sectional semifinal last Friday. And the score could have been worse.
The argument can be made, as South coach Drew Wood did, that this year's Center Grove team is one of the best ever. Incredible speed in the backfield, very strong, excellent high school size.
That's what the Panthers need to imitate, and they need to start work on the task soon. Time not spent in the weight room and on speed development is a serious waste of time. To be competitive at the top level, those 56-14 gaps need to cease.
True, Center Grove was operating with a senior class that's been groomed for four years. But South was senior-dominated, some with three starting years.
Nine seniors graduate from the Panthers' starting offense, which put up big numbers this year. Nine seniors also graduate from the defense, which was battered by inujuries for the second straight year. At one spot alone, strong safety, six different players were needed because of injuries.
The only starters back on offense are guard J.P. Tapp and slotback Ben Whitlatch, and the only starters back on defense are nose guard Tito Valentin and strong safety Theo Carver.
So the Panthers' challenge for next year is large. Wood, going into his sixth season, will put together a team from a 6-3 jayvee club and 4-5 freshman team.
South has to get stronger, of that there is no doubt. But what hurt the Panthers even more this year was lack of speed. Their losses were to Southport and speedy tailback Nick Turner, to Pike with swift quarterback-halfback Dakotah Tyler and Center Grove with a whole backfield of quickness.
"Center Grove's guards both run 4.7s," Wood grinned. "And the backfield is a state qualifying 400 relay team. Our kids knew what they were doing . . . We tired to put some size out there . . . Center Grove's (defensive) front was good.
"We did everything we could. We tired to get our best matchups, stayed late all week at practice, the kids worked hard and knew what they were doing. I'm proud of our kids - they didn't quit in the second half.
"We just ran into a team that was flat-out better than we were. Center Grove is one of the best teams ever."
With eight wins, there were several highlights, one of which was a second place finish in Conference Indiana.
"Beating Columbus North in the overtime was nice," Wood smiled of the first round sectional win. "I like the way our kids rallied (six times coming from behind) to win that.
"Beating Lawrence Central was a highlight. Our kis figured out they could play, just go play and have fun.
"I enjoyed this group, it was fun to coach. They were pretty focused on what they wanted to do."
Injuries, primarily at inside linebacker and strong safety, hampered the defense all year. "We've got to look at some decisions on defense for next year," Wood said.
Lack of overall team speed was evident right from the start of summer workouts. "You can coach up speed. We'll look at that," Wood said. "We want our guys to run track if they're not playing baseball."
One of the strengths of the Panthers became the offensive line, which had only two starters returning. Along with Tapp were tackles Aaron Price and Cameron Ward, guard Christian James and center Trent Anderson. Coleman Ballard and Derek Heidewald were tight ends.
Marcus Etnier leaves as another in a long line of outstanding Panther quarterbacks. He led the team in rushing as well as passing last year. This year he ran less because of the emergence of David Blackwell and Jordan Hogue in the backfield, but he still threw for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 495 yards and nine TDs.
Blackwell busted loose for 1,322 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns and caught 26 passes for 322 yards and two TDs. He became a very consistent, proficient tailback who ran with determination.
Hogue, strong and quick, gives 100 per cent on every play, in practice and in games, and has outstanding potential. He carried for 513 yards and five TDs, averaging 7.4 yards per carry.
The Panthers spread the offense and threw a lot to several different receivers. The leader was Earnie Morris, who had an all-state season with 40 catches for 860 yards, an excellent 21.5 average, and eight TDs. He also rushed for three TDs and scored on two punt returns. Morris also returned kickoffs and started at cornerback.
Other productive receivers were Rickey Washington (296 yards and two TDs), Zack Dimmett (238 and two) and Whitlatch (221 and two).
A real asset was the place kicking of senior Hillary Whitehead. She made all 46 of her PAT attempts and hit three field goals.
The defensive point leader was senior tackle Brandon Pellmann with 126 points. He also led in solo tackles with 38. Inside linebacker Ryan Beall was second in points with 118 and first in tackle assists with 43. Safety Casey Peck and cornerback DJ Stephens tied for third in points with 87, and inside linebacker Josh Combs was fifth with 78 despite playing most of the season with a separated shoulder.
Players expected to step up and play key roles next season include Joey Forney at quarterback, Hogue at tailback, Alex Sarpa at linebacker, Valentin at nose guard, Drew Volz at defensive back or running back, Lucas Franz at wide receiver, Derek Murphy at safety and Reilly Flynn on the offensive line.
2008 FINAL INDIVIDUAL OFFENSIVE STATISTICS:
Record: 8-3
Rushing
C Y Avg. TD
David Blackwell 210 1322 6.2 10
Jordan Hogue 69 513 7.4 5
Marcus Etnier 126 495 3.9 9
Earnie Morris 20 120 6.0 3
Rickey Washington 9 61 6.7 2
Brian Oxley 12 24 2.0 0
Joey Forney 3 7 2.3 1
Ben Whitlatch 1 4 4.0 0
Sebastian Helms 1 4 4.0 0
Totals 451 2550 5.6 30
Passing
C A I Y TD
Marcus Etnier 136 228 13 1962
NEVER TOO SOON TO GET TO WORK
By Rex Kirts
If South wants to compete with the football big guys, such as Center Grove, now might be a good time to get to work.
True, the Panthers finished with an 8-3 record, which isn't bad. But they lost to Center Grove, 56-14, in the sectional semifinal last Friday. And the score could have been worse.
The argument can be made, as South coach Drew Wood did, that this year's Center Grove team is one of the best ever. Incredible speed in the backfield, very strong, excellent high school size.
That's what the Panthers need to imitate, and they need to start work on the task soon. Time not spent in the weight room and on speed development is a serious waste of time. To be competitive at the top level, those 56-14 gaps need to cease.
True, Center Grove was operating with a senior class that's been groomed for four years. But South was senior-dominated, some with three starting years.
Nine seniors graduate from the Panthers' starting offense, which put up big numbers this year. Nine seniors also graduate from the defense, which was battered by inujuries for the second straight year. At one spot alone, strong safety, six different players were needed because of injuries.
The only starters back on offense are guard J.P. Tapp and slotback Ben Whitlatch, and the only starters back on defense are nose guard Tito Valentin and strong safety Theo Carver.
So the Panthers' challenge for next year is large. Wood, going into his sixth season, will put together a team from a 6-3 jayvee club and 4-5 freshman team.
South has to get stronger, of that there is no doubt. But what hurt the Panthers even more this year was lack of speed. Their losses were to Southport and speedy tailback Nick Turner, to Pike with swift quarterback-halfback Dakotah Tyler and Center Grove with a whole backfield of quickness.
"Center Grove's guards both run 4.7s," Wood grinned. "And the backfield is a state qualifying 400 relay team. Our kids knew what they were doing . . . We tired to put some size out there . . . Center Grove's (defensive) front was good.
"We did everything we could. We tired to get our best matchups, stayed late all week at practice, the kids worked hard and knew what they were doing. I'm proud of our kids - they didn't quit in the second half.
"We just ran into a team that was flat-out better than we were. Center Grove is one of the best teams ever."
With eight wins, there were several highlights, one of which was a second place finish in Conference Indiana.
"Beating Columbus North in the overtime was nice," Wood smiled of the first round sectional win. "I like the way our kids rallied (six times coming from behind) to win that.
"Beating Lawrence Central was a highlight. Our kis figured out they could play, just go play and have fun.
"I enjoyed this group, it was fun to coach. They were pretty focused on what they wanted to do."
Injuries, primarily at inside linebacker and strong safety, hampered the defense all year. "We've got to look at some decisions on defense for next year," Wood said.
Lack of overall team speed was evident right from the start of summer workouts. "You can coach up speed. We'll look at that," Wood said. "We want our guys to run track if they're not playing baseball."
One of the strengths of the Panthers became the offensive line, which had only two starters returning. Along with Tapp were tackles Aaron Price and Cameron Ward, guard Christian James and center Trent Anderson. Coleman Ballard and Derek Heidewald were tight ends.
Marcus Etnier leaves as another in a long line of outstanding Panther quarterbacks. He led the team in rushing as well as passing last year. This year he ran less because of the emergence of David Blackwell and Jordan Hogue in the backfield, but he still threw for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 495 yards and nine TDs.
Blackwell busted loose for 1,322 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns and caught 26 passes for 322 yards and two TDs. He became a very consistent, proficient tailback who ran with determination.
Hogue, strong and quick, gives 100 per cent on every play, in practice and in games, and has outstanding potential. He carried for 513 yards and five TDs, averaging 7.4 yards per carry.
The Panthers spread the offense and threw a lot to several different receivers. The leader was Earnie Morris, who had an all-state season with 40 catches for 860 yards, an excellent 21.5 average, and eight TDs. He also rushed for three TDs and scored on two punt returns. Morris also returned kickoffs and started at cornerback.
Other productive receivers were Rickey Washington (296 yards and two TDs), Zack Dimmett (238 and two) and Whitlatch (221 and two).
A real asset was the place kicking of senior Hillary Whitehead. She made all 46 of her PAT attempts and hit three field goals.
The defensive point leader was senior tackle Brandon Pellmann with 126 points. He also led in solo tackles with 38. Inside linebacker Ryan Beall was second in points with 118 and first in tackle assists with 43. Safety Casey Peck and cornerback DJ Stephens tied for third in points with 87, and inside linebacker Josh Combs was fifth with 78 despite playing most of the season with a separated shoulder.
Players expected to step up and play key roles next season include Joey Forney at quarterback, Hogue at tailback, Alex Sarpa at linebacker, Valentin at nose guard, Drew Volz at defensive back or running back, Lucas Franz at wide receiver, Derek Murphy at safety and Reilly Flynn on the offensive line.
2008 FINAL INDIVIDUAL OFFENSIVE STATISTICS:
NEVER TOO SOON TO GET TO WORK
By Rex Kirts
If South wants to compete with the football big guys, such as Center Grove, now might be a good time to get to work.
True, the Panthers finished with an 8-3 record, which isn't bad. But they lost to Center Grove, 56-14, in the sectional semifinal last Friday. And the score could have been worse.
The argument can be made, as South coach Drew Wood did, that this year's Center Grove team is one of the best ever. Incredible speed in the backfield, very strong, excellent high school size.
That's what the Panthers need to imitate, and they need to start work on the task soon. Time not spent in the weight room and on speed development is a serious waste of time. To be competitive at the top level, those 56-14 gaps need to cease.
True, Center Grove was operating with a senior class that's been groomed for four years. But South was senior-dominated, some with three starting years.
Nine seniors graduate from the Panthers' starting offense, which put up big numbers this year. Nine seniors also graduate from the defense, which was battered by inujuries for the second straight year. At one spot alone, strong safety, six different players were needed because of injuries.
The only starters back on offense are guard J.P. Tapp and slotback Ben Whitlatch, and the only starters back on defense are nose guard Tito Valentin and strong safety Theo Carver.
So the Panthers' challenge for next year is large. Wood, going into his sixth season, will put together a team from a 6-3 jayvee club and 4-5 freshman team.
South has to get stronger, of that there is no doubt. But what hurt the Panthers even more this year was lack of speed. Their losses were to Southport and speedy tailback Nick Turner, to Pike with swift quarterback-halfback Dakotah Tyler and Center Grove with a whole backfield of quickness.
"Center Grove's guards both run 4.7s," Wood grinned. "And the backfield is a state qualifying 400 relay team. Our kids knew what they were doing . . . We tired to put some size out there . . . Center Grove's (defensive) front was good.
"We did everything we could. We tired to get our best matchups, stayed late all week at practice, the kids worked hard and knew what they were doing. I'm proud of our kids - they didn't quit in the second half.
"We just ran into a team that was flat-out better than we were. Center Grove is one of the best teams ever."
With eight wins, there were several highlights, one of which was a second place finish in Conference Indiana.
"Beating Columbus North in the overtime was nice," Wood smiled of the first round sectional win. "I like the way our kids rallied (six times coming from behind) to win that.
"Beating Lawrence Central was a highlight. Our kis figured out they could play, just go play and have fun.
"I enjoyed this group, it was fun to coach. They were pretty focused on what they wanted to do."
Injuries, primarily at inside linebacker and strong safety, hampered the defense all year. "We've got to look at some decisions on defense for next year," Wood said.
Lack of overall team speed was evident right from the start of summer workouts. "You can coach up speed. We'll look at that," Wood said. "We want our guys to run track if they're not playing baseball."
One of the strengths of the Panthers became the offensive line, which had only two starters returning. Along with Tapp were tackles Aaron Price and Cameron Ward, guard Christian James and center Trent Anderson. Coleman Ballard and Derek Heidewald were tight ends.
Marcus Etnier leaves as another in a long line of outstanding Panther quarterbacks. He led the team in rushing as well as passing last year. This year he ran less because of the emergence of David Blackwell and Jordan Hogue in the backfield, but he still threw for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 495 yards and nine TDs.
Blackwell busted loose for 1,322 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns and caught 26 passes for 322 yards and two TDs. He became a very consistent, proficient tailback who ran with determination.
Hogue, strong and quick, gives 100 per cent on every play, in practice and in games, and has outstanding potential. He carried for 513 yards and five TDs, averaging 7.4 yards per carry.
The Panthers spread the offense and threw a lot to several different receivers. The leader was Earnie Morris, who had an all-state season with 40 catches for 860 yards, an excellent 21.5 average, and eight TDs. He also rushed for three TDs and scored on two punt returns. Morris also returned kickoffs and started at cornerback.
Other productive receivers were Rickey Washington (296 yards and two TDs), Zack Dimmett (238 and two) and Whitlatch (221 and two).
A real asset was the place kicking of senior Hillary Whitehead. She made all 46 of her PAT attempts and hit three field goals.
The defensive point leader was senior tackle Brandon Pellmann with 126 points. He also led in solo tackles with 38. Inside linebacker Ryan Beall was second in points with 118 and first in tackle assists with 43. Safety Casey Peck and cornerback DJ Stephens tied for third in points with 87, and inside linebacker Josh Combs was fifth with 78 despite playing most of the season with a separated shoulder.
Players expected to step up and play key roles next season include Joey Forney at quarterback, Hogue at tailback, Alex Sarpa at linebacker, Valentin at nose guard, Drew Volz at defensive back or running back, Lucas Franz at wide receiver, Derek Murphy at safety and Reilly Flynn on the offensive line.
2008 FINAL INDIVIDUAL OFFENSIVE STATISTICS:
NEVER TOO SOON TO GET TO WORK
By Rex Kirts
If South wants to compete with the football big guys, such as Center Grove, now might be a good time to get to work.
True, the Panthers finished with an 8-3 record, which isn't bad. But they lost to Center Grove, 56-14, in the sectional semifinal last Friday. And the score could have been worse.
The argument can be made, as South coach Drew Wood did, that this year's Center Grove team is one of the best ever. Incredible speed in the backfield, very strong, excellent high school size.
That's what the Panthers need to imitate, and they need to start work on the task soon. Time not spent in the weight room and on speed development is a serious waste of time. To be competitive at the top level, those 56-14 gaps need to cease.
True, Center Grove was operating with a senior class that's been groomed for four years. But South was senior-dominated, some with three starting years.
Nine seniors graduate from the Panthers' starting offense, which put up big numbers this year. Nine seniors also graduate from the defense, which was battered by inujuries for the second straight year. At one spot alone, strong safety, six different players were needed because of injuries.
The only starters back on offense are guard J.P. Tapp and slotback Ben Whitlatch, and the only starters back on defense are nose guard Tito Valentin and strong safety Theo Carver.
So the Panthers' challenge for next year is large. Wood, going into his sixth season, will put together a team from a 6-3 jayvee club and 4-5 freshman team.
South has to get stronger, of that there is no doubt. But what hurt the Panthers even more this year was lack of speed. Their losses were to Southport and speedy tailback Nick Turner, to Pike with swift quarterback-halfback Dakotah Tyler and Center Grove with a whole backfield of quickness.
"Center Grove's guards both run 4.7s," Wood grinned. "And the backfield is a state qualifying 400 relay team. Our kids knew what they were doing . . . We tired to put some size out there . . . Center Grove's (defensive) front was good.
"We did everything we could. We tired to get our best matchups, stayed late all week at practice, the kids worked hard and knew what they were doing. I'm proud of our kids - they didn't quit in the second half.
"We just ran into a team that was flat-out better than we were. Center Grove is one of the best teams ever."
With eight wins, there were several highlights, one of which was a second place finish in Conference Indiana.
"Beating Columbus North in the overtime was nice," Wood smiled of the first round sectional win. "I like the way our kids rallied (six times coming from behind) to win that.
"Beating Lawrence Central was a highlight. Our kis figured out they could play, just go play and have fun.
"I enjoyed this group, it was fun to coach. They were pretty focused on what they wanted to do."
Injuries, primarily at inside linebacker and strong safety, hampered the defense all year. "We've got to look at some decisions on defense for next year," Wood said.
Lack of overall team speed was evident right from the start of summer workouts. "You can coach up speed. We'll look at that," Wood said. "We want our guys to run track if they're not playing baseball."
One of the strengths of the Panthers became the offensive line, which had only two starters returning. Along with Tapp were tackles Aaron Price and Cameron Ward, guard Christian James and center Trent Anderson. Coleman Ballard and Derek Heidewald were tight ends.
Marcus Etnier leaves as another in a long line of outstanding Panther quarterbacks. He led the team in rushing as well as passing last year. This year he ran less because of the emergence of David Blackwell and Jordan Hogue in the backfield, but he still threw for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 495 yards and nine TDs.
Blackwell busted loose for 1,322 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns and caught 26 passes for 322 yards and two TDs. He became a very consistent, proficient tailback who ran with determination.
Hogue, strong and quick, gives 100 per cent on every play, in practice and in games, and has outstanding potential. He carried for 513 yards and five TDs, averaging 7.4 yards per carry.
The Panthers spread the offense and threw a lot to several different receivers. The leader was Earnie Morris, who had an all-state season with 40 catches for 860 yards, an excellent 21.5 average, and eight TDs. He also rushed for three TDs and scored on two punt returns. Morris also returned kickoffs and started at cornerback.
Other productive receivers were Rickey Washington (296 yards and two TDs), Zack Dimmett (238 and two) and Whitlatch (221 and two).
A real asset was the place kicking of senior Hillary Whitehead. She made all 46 of her PAT attempts and hit three field goals.
The defensive point leader was senior tackle Brandon Pellmann with 126 points. He also led in solo tackles with 38. Inside linebacker Ryan Beall was second in points with 118 and first in tackle assists with 43. Safety Casey Peck and cornerback DJ Stephens tied for third in points with 87, and inside linebacker Josh Combs was fifth with 78 despite playing most of the season with a separated shoulder.
Players expected to step up and play key roles next season include Joey Forney at quarterback, Hogue at tailback, Alex Sarpa at linebacker, Valentin at nose guard, Drew Volz at defensive back or running back, Lucas Franz at wide receiver, Derek Murphy at safety and Reilly Flynn on the offensive line.
2008 FINAL INDIVIDUAL OFFENSIVE STATISTICS:
By Rex Kirts
If South wants to compete with the football big guys, such as Center Grove, now might be a good time to get to work.
True, the Panthers finished with an 8-3 record, which isn't bad. But they lost to Center Grove, 56-14, in the sectional semifinal last Friday. And the score could have been worse.
The argument can be made, as South coach Drew Wood did, that this year's Center Grove team is one of the best ever. Incredible speed in the backfield, very strong, excellent high school size.
That's what the Panthers need to imitate, and they need to start work on the task soon. Time not spent in the weight room and on speed development is a serious waste of time. To be competitive at the top level, those 56-14 gaps need to cease.
True, Center Grove was operating with a senior class that's been groomed for four years. But South was senior-dominated, some with three starting years.
Nine seniors graduate from the Panthers' starting offense, which put up big numbers this year. Nine seniors also graduate from the defense, which was battered by inujuries for the second straight year. At one spot alone, strong safety, six different players were needed because of injuries.
The only starters back on offense are guard J.P. Tapp and slotback Ben Whitlatch, and the only starters back on defense are nose guard Tito Valentin and strong safety Theo Carver.
So the Panthers' challenge for next year is large. Wood, going into his sixth season, will put together a team from a 6-3 jayvee club and 4-5 freshman team.
South has to get stronger, of that there is no doubt. But what hurt the Panthers even more this year was lack of speed. Their losses were to Southport and speedy tailback Nick Turner, to Pike with swift quarterback-halfback Dakotah Tyler and Center Grove with a whole backfield of quickness.
"Center Grove's guards both run 4.7s," Wood grinned. "And the backfield is a state qualifying 400 relay team. Our kids knew what they were doing . . . We tired to put some size out there . . . Center Grove's (defensive) front was good.
"We did everything we could. We tired to get our best matchups, stayed late all week at practice, the kids worked hard and knew what they were doing. I'm proud of our kids - they didn't quit in the second half.
"We just ran into a team that was flat-out better than we were. Center Grove is one of the best teams ever."
With eight wins, there were several highlights, one of which was a second place finish in Conference Indiana.
"Beating Columbus North in the overtime was nice," Wood smiled of the first round sectional win. "I like the way our kids rallied (six times coming from behind) to win that.
"Beating Lawrence Central was a highlight. Our kis figured out they could play, just go play and have fun.
"I enjoyed this group, it was fun to coach. They were pretty focused on what they wanted to do."
By Rex Kirts
If South wants to compete with the football big guys, such as Center Grove, now might be a good time to get to work.
True, the Panthers finished with an 8-3 record, which isn't bad. But they lost to Center Grove, 56-14, in the sectional semifinal last Friday. And the score could have been worse.
The argument can be made, as South coach Drew Wood did, that this year's Center Grove team is one of the best ever. Incredible speed in the backfield, very strong, excellent high school size.
That's what the Panthers need to imitate, and they need to start work on the task soon. Time not spent in the weight room and on speed development is a serious waste of time. To be competitive at the top level, those 56-14 gaps need to cease.
True, Center Grove was operating with a senior class that's been groomed for four years. But South was senior-dominated, some with three starting years.
Nine seniors graduate from the Panthers' starting offense, which put up big numbers this year. Nine seniors also graduate from the defense, which was battered by inujuries for the second straight year. At one spot alone, strong safety, six different players were needed because of injuries.
The only starters back on offense are guard J.P. Tapp and slotback Ben Whitlatch, and the only starters back on defense are nose guard Tito Valentin and strong safety Theo Carver.
So the Panthers' challenge for next year is large. Wood, going into his sixth season, will put together a team from a 6-3 jayvee club and 4-5 freshman team.
South has to get stronger, of that there is no doubt. But what hurt the Panthers even more this year was lack of speed. Their losses were to Southport and speedy tailback Nick Turner, to Pike with swift quarterback-halfback Dakotah Tyler and Center Grove with a whole backfield of quickness.
"Center Grove's guards both run 4.7s," Wood grinned. "And the backfield is a state qualifying 400 relay team. Our kids knew what they were doing . . . We tired to put some size out there . . . Center Grove's (defensive) front was good.
"We did everything we could. We tired to get our best matchups, stayed late all week at practice, the kids worked hard and knew what they were doing. I'm proud of our kids - they didn't quit in the second half.
"We just ran into a team that was flat-out better than we were. Center Grove is one of the best teams ever."
With eight wins, there were several highlights, one of which was a second place finish in Conference Indiana.
"Beating Columbus North in the overtime was nice," Wood smiled of the first round sectional win. "I like the way our kids rallied (six times coming from behind) to win that.
"Beating Lawrence Central was a highlight. Our kis figured out they could play, just go play and have fun.
"I enjoyed this group, it was fun to coach. They were pretty focused on what they wanted to do."
Injuries, primarily at inside linebacker and strong safety, hampered the defense all year. "We've got to look at some decisions on defense for next year," Wood said.
Lack of overall team speed was evident right from the start of summer workouts. "You can coach up speed. We'll look at that," Wood said. "We want our guys to run track if they're not playing baseball."
One of the strengths of the Panthers became the offensive line, which had only two starters returning. Along with Tapp were tackles Aaron Price and Cameron Ward, guard Christian James and center Trent Anderson. Coleman Ballard and Derek Heidewald were tight ends.
Marcus Etnier leaves as another in a long line of outstanding Panther quarterbacks. He led the team in rushing as well as passing last year. This year he ran less because of the emergence of David Blackwell and Jordan Hogue in the backfield, but he still threw for 1,962 yards and 17 touchdowns while rushing for 495 yards and nine TDs.
Blackwell busted loose for 1,322 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns and caught 26 passes for 322 yards and two TDs. He became a very consistent, proficient tailback who ran with determination.
Hogue, strong and quick, gives 100 per cent on every play, in practice and in games, and has outstanding potential. He carried for 513 yards and five TDs, averaging 7.4 yards per carry.
The Panthers spread the offense and threw a lot to several different receivers. The leader was Earnie Morris, who had an all-state season with 40 catches for 860 yards, an excellent 21.5 average, and eight TDs. He also rushed for three TDs and scored on two punt returns. Morris also returned kickoffs and started at cornerback.
Other productive receivers were Rickey Washington (296 yards and two TDs), Zack Dimmett (238 and two) and Whitlatch (221 and two).
A real asset was the place kicking of senior Hillary Whitehead. She made all 46 of her PAT attempts and hit three field goals.
The defensive point leader was senior tackle Brandon Pellmann with 126 points. He also led in solo tackles with 38. Inside linebacker Ryan Beall was second in points with 118 and first in tackle assists with 43. Safety Casey Peck and cornerback DJ Stephens tied for third in points with 87, and inside linebacker Josh Combs was fifth with 78 despite playing most of the season with a separated shoulder.
Players expected to step up and play key roles next season include Joey Forney at quarterback, Hogue at tailback, Alex Sarpa at linebacker, Valentin at nose guard, Drew Volz at defensive back or running back, Lucas Franz at wide receiver, Derek Murphy at safety and Reilly Flynn on the offensive line.
Record: 8-3
Rushing
C Y Avg. TD
David Blackwell 210 1322 6.2 10
Jordan Hogue 69 513 7.4 5
Marcus Etnier 126 495 3.9 9
Earnie Morris 20 120 6.0 3
Rickey Washington 9 61 6.7 2
Brian Oxley 12 24 2.0 0
Joey Forney 3 7 2.3 1
Ben Whitlatch 1 4 4.0 0
Sebastian Helms 1 4 4.0 0
Totals 451 2550 5.6 30
Passing
C A I Y TD
Marcus Etnier 136 228 13 1962
Jordan Hogue 69 513 7.4 5
Marcus Etnier 126 495 3.9 9Panther Scream