League: 1A/2B Northwest League (2B)
Coach: Mark Smith, 22nd year
2011 record: 9-3, 1st in league; lost in 2B quarterfinals.
Offense: Coordinators (set) – Ace Davis, Mark Smith (spread option). Returning starters – 5. Top players – OL Jon Halstensenm 5-11, 195, jr.; RB Brandon Hughey, 5-10, 170, sr.; TE Drew Jordan, 6-0, 180, sr.; QB Taylor Martindale, 6-2, 200, sr.; OL Caleb Wolf, 5-10, 180, sr.
Defense: Coordinators (set) – Kevin Guenzi, Mark Smith (multiple). Returning starters – 5. Top players – LB Jon Halstensenm 5-11, 195, jr.; LB Brandon Hughey, 5-10, 170, sr.; DB Drew Jordan, 6-0, 180, sr.; DB Taylor Martindale, 6-2, 200, sr.; DL Caleb Wolf, 5-10, 180, sr.
Outlook: After going to the spread option, the Crusaders have not looked back – and have a real dual threat in Martindale, a three-year starter. And without a blocker such as Walker Williams (now at Wisconsin), Tacoma Baptist will be more perimeter-oriented with its attack. Martindale, the team’s leading rusher and passer (2010-11), has the speed to adapt.
CHIEF LESCHI
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