Whiteford Bobcats 2021 Preview

By Frank Vajcner

Whiteford is coming off of a 6-3 season, which may not seem like much, given their successes in the last decade. But there is plenty of reason for optimism, as 10 starters return on both sides of the ball from what head coach Jason Mensing said was “the youngest team we have ever had” in 2020.

Head coach: Jason Mensing (120-77, 19th season; 82-22, tenth season at Whiteford)

Assistant Coaches: Ben Avis, Bob Ondrovick, Jason Vida, Todd Thieken, Kris Hoag, Tony DuPree

Offense: By now, everyone who has visited the blog should know about Noah Bauman. The senior is a four-year starter on the offensive line for the Bobcats, and a two-time all-stater. He will also mentor newcomers Dylan Anderson and Kyle Gray. Anderson can play either guard or center, while Gray will can play tackle or center.

At the skill positions, junior Shea Ruddy returns for his third season under center for the Bobcats’ double wing offense. Ruddy is a threat to throw and run. Senior RBs Cole Giesege and Levi Hillard are three-year starters in the backfield. At end, senior Jack Andrews returns as the leading receiver.

Defense: Ten starters return on the defensive side, and will look to be much better after allowing 32.5 points per game. Bauman will be a force on the interior defensive line, and Andrews returns at DE. Hillard will be a leader at LB, while Giesege will anchor the secondary.

Coach’s Outlook: League should be very strong, Mason is returning champion, Sand Creek was a semifinalist with a ton of talent returning. Madison had one of their top teams, Summerfield has great skilled players and a veteran offensive line, and Morenci has had great speed of late. Pittsford will be improved as they are returning most of their team.

FNV Outlook: The last two seasons, we have seen what Mensing has been able to do with a young squad. Now that the young Bobcats have grown up and have more experience under their belts, it’s reasonable to expect a step forward this season. The Bobcats will have two opportunities to prove what they are made of early on with contests against Blissfield and Ida. In the TCC, fans are circling an October 15 date against arch-rival Summerfield, as well as dates against Sand Creek and Erie Mason.