Class 4A District 15 Preview

District 15

1. Buhler Crusaders (9-3)

After winning seven games in each of his first two seasons, coach Steve Warner led Buhler to nine wins in 2008, including two in the playoffs before Topeka Hayden ousted them in the state quarterfinals.

Nemesis Andale, which has defeated Buhler in each of Warner’s three seasons, awaits Buhler in district play. The return of all-state senior RB Jorden Oden (5-8, 185, 1,312 rushing yards) and starting linemen on both sides of the ball – Matt Dobson (6-5, 260), Kyler Harms (6-1, 296), Taylor Morris (6-0, 200), Jordan Stiles (5-9, 165) and Dylan Young (6-0, 200).

Newcomer FB/LB Roman Davidson (6-0, 230), a transfer from Sterling who played last season with a broken fibula, will be a key addition. –TW

2. Andale Indians (11-2)

A decimated starting lineup entering the 2008 season did not dissuade Andale from competing at the top of Class 4A once again. The two-time defending state champs earned yet another sub-state berth, falling to eventual state champ Hayden, 20-12, after scoring 135 points in their opening three playoff games.

Andale’s skill positions take a hit in 2009, but 32 lettermen return. All-state senior OT B.J. Finney (6-4, 250) and senior OT Jake Steven lead Andale’s strength on the line of scrimmage. Senior OL Danny Lubbers (6-1, 250) lettered in 2008.

Once again on defense, Andale’s linebacking corps will dominate. Senior LB Craig Simon (6-1, 200, 114 tackles) returns with senior LB/RB Benny Armstrong (5-11, 195) and senior LB Ryan Bergkamp (5-9, 180).

Coach Gary O’Hair has compiled 75 wins in seven seasons at Andale. –TW

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3. Nickerson Panthers (1-8)

Nickerson’s lone victory in 2008 came in district play against Haven, which also went 1-8. Coach Max Heinlein enters his fourth season with the Panthers, hoping to get back to winning.

Senior RB/LB Weston Cottrell (5-10, 185) and junior RB/LB Hector Rodriguez (5-10, 175) look to power the offense in 2009. On the line, two-way seniors Antoine Lehman (6-0, 260) and Jesse Ortiz (5-10, 275) join with junior Austin Schweizer (6-4, 290) to clear holes up front. –DP

4. Haven Wildacts (1-8)

After yielding 140 points in their final two games of the 2008 regular season, Haven has the opportunity to improve. Third-year coach Shane Seeley got his first win in 2008 and returns the bulk of his lineup, including junior QB/DB Ridge Foster (5-10, 175), senior RB/LB Tyler Heim (5-9, 150) and six linemen who lettered. –TW