By Frank Vajcner
Last season, Dundee returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2012. But the Vikings saw a lot of change in the offseason, as Ross Crow now takes over as head coach. 11 lettermen return for the Vikings
Head Coach: Ross Crow (first year at Dundee, fourth as a head coach)
Offense: The Vikings will have a new look on offense, as they move to more of a spread attack. Junior Carson Irwin takes over at QB after seeing some action as the backup last season. There will be no shortage of skill players surrounding Irwin, headlined by seniors Ty Schroeder and Isaac Wylie. Crow highlighted junior Jimmy Dusa, as well as sophomores Caden Bellaire and Trevor Schroeder (Ty’s little brother) as newcomers to watch. A pair of seniors will anchor the offensive line in tackle Jared Stall and center Nic Bellaire.
Defense: Five starters return on defense for the Vikings, headlined by FNV All Blog Ty Schroeder at LB, who set the school record for sacks last season. Stall headlines the defensive line, while Wylie anchors the secondary. Junior Kaiden Hubbell will push for time on the defensive line.
Coach’s Outlook: Players are hungry to compete and eager for the opportunity to build on last year’s success. They have had a taste of the playoffs now and are unsatisfied with last year’s first-round exit. There is a healthy mix of fresh faces combined with returning starters on both sides of the ball. While the Senior class is small in numbers, it makes up for it with a plethora of leadership ability and talent. We look forward to a very competitive LCAA this year and hope everyone is able to start and finish their seasons amidst this unprecedented time.
FNV Outlook: The COVID pandemic will undoubtedly be a hindrance to the Vikings, as they begin the Crow era. Despite missing arch-rival Ida in a shortened schedule, trips to Blissfield and Hillsdale will prove to be difficult, along with visits from Onsted and Clinton. The million-dollar question is how well can the Vikings adapt?