Ida 2018 Preview and Predictions

By Frank Vajcner

A new era in Ida Bluestreaks Football began last season, as Jeff Potter took over as head coach. Many people thought that the Bluestreaks would struggle, but they kept on truckin’ as they finished 8-3 and qualified for the playoffs for a fifth consecutive season. The Streaks return seven starters on offense and four on defense.

Coaching Staff:

Head Coach: Jeff Potter (8-3; second season)

Assistants: Chris Leonard, John Groll, Dave Potter, Dave Morelli, Jermaine Lehr, Mark Flotow

Offense: Ida will shift from the Full House T to the veer, which is similar to what Bedford runs. Senior QB Clay Sampson will be looking to build off of a steady season, but will likely be featured more. At RB, seniors Jake Weilnau and Sam Brettschneider return, with Weilnau coming off of a 1000 rushing yard season. Senior TEs Tommy Colpaert and Zack Johnston return as well, and senior Alex Longenbarger will anchor the offensive line. Junior Ronan LaRoy will be a new face on the line, while fellow junior Travis Wegener will see action at RB.

Defense: Potter brought in his father, Dave, to help coach a relatively inexperienced defense, as only four starters return. Longenbarger returns to the defensive line looking to build off of a solid junior season. Senior Zach Stein and Weilnau return at linebacker, while Colpaert and Brettschneider will anchor the secondary.

Coach’s Outlook: The kids have worked hard in the off season and their focus is on getting better each day.  We expect them to compete every time they step on the field.  The LCAA is very competitive from the top to the bottom, so you have to be ready to go each week.

The Streaks exceeded expectations last season. Will they be able to continue the success? Despite having skill player returning, Ida has a killer road schedule with games at Brooklyn Columbia Central, Hudson, and Blissfield. This is a team capable of making the playoffs, but they could be sweating it out come Selection Sunday.