Ida Blue Streaks 2020 Preview

By Frank Vajcner

The Ida Blue Streaks are looking to bounce back after having their first losing season since 2010, as they finished 4-5 last year. But with 14 starters back, there is cause for optimism as Year Four of the Jeff Potter era begins.

Head Coach: Jeff Potter (20-11, fourth season)

Offense: The Streaks return eight starters in their full house T offense that averaged 26.4 points per game. Headlining the rushing attack is junior RB Owen Sampson, who is coming off of a breakout campaign as a sophomore. Senior FB Jacob Lewis returns to the backfield, while sophomore Luke Levicki (younger brother of former Streak Nick Levicki), will look to make an impact. At QB, sophomore Nate Miller will be the first sophomore to start at the position since Nic Jobe in 2006. Anchoring the offensive line are seniors Tyler Satkowski and Austin Herkimer at the guards, and Kyle Strzesinski at tackle. Both starting TEs Landon Bryant and Park Henry are also seniors.

Defense: This is an area that will need to improve after allowing 27.6 points per game last season. The streaks return plenty of experience on the defensive line, led by Strzesinski, Satkowski, and junior Ty Hathaway. Henry, Bryant, and Levicki will each be a force at linebacker, while Sampson returns after a strong season at defensive back.

The Streaks’ special teams should be strong as well with Henry back as the punter, and Sampson being a dangerous kick returner.

Coach’s Outlook: [W]e will be challenged every week.  Clinton joins the league and they will be a force.  The two schools that did not make the playoffs are perennial power Hudson and Brooklyn CC that went 5-4.  The LCAA is a grind and there are no easy games in the league. 

The kids are excited to be back on the field and are looking forward to the challenge.  We have a nice group of senior laden kids that are determined to make their mark.  The seniors will need to bring the younger players along in order to reach our goals.  We are counting on our offensive line to be a strength for us this season. 

FNV Outlook: We pegged Ida as a team to bounce back after a disappointing season last year. There’s enough talent to favor the aforementioned, but the schedule doesn’t offer any breaks. Opening up at LCAA newcomer Clinton could prove if the Blue Streaks are truly rising back up. Returning state-semifinalist Onsted comes to town on October 9, which precedes consecutive road trips to Blissfield and Columbia Central. All in all, it’s arguably the toughest schedule of the Original 16 teams on the blog, but Ida has the talent and coaching to get through.