Team Preview:
Written By: Sven Alskog

In the first year under head coach Ian Smart, Timberline showed major improvement despite some key injuries, including having to play without running back Jacob Pinkney for the bulk of the season.

Heading into 2018, the talent pool on the roster for the Wolves has continued to improve, highlighted by backfield standout Ed Osterberger.

Osterberger ran behind a tough and physical offensive line that lost multiple starters from a year ago. The task now is to find quality guys to step in and fill those holes.

Seniors Peyton Mills and Alex Muir look to lead the way on the line.

For the team to take the next step and challenge for a playoff spot, Timberline will need to see improvement in the passing game to become less predictable for opponents.

“We hope to establish a stronger passing game. With the building of the run game, we have to work to create a pass game that creates balance,” added Smart.

He likes what the group is capable of though.

“Our offense will be multiple and we will work to be incredibly efficient. We created a strong running game last season and we will look to build on that.”

Defensively, the biggest challenge for the Wolves comes with figuring out how to replace playmaking linebacker Dylan Herberg, who was all over the field play in and play out last season.

“We will work to use the athletes we have effectively. We will be quick and relentless. We really have to eliminate big plays. We did not do a great job last season of protecting against big plays. That will be an area of emphasis,” said Smart.

Layton Wagner has the potential to be an impact player on defense this season from the linebacker spot, which with Herberg no longer around should lead to plenty of tackle opportunities.

Some key talent graduated from a year ago from a team that came within a touchdown against Rocky Mountain and two touchdowns in the matchup with Eagle. Fortunately there is plenty of skill still around to keep the program heading in the right direction.

“I am excited to see who steps up. I believe this team has the potential to do really nice things. It will be a team that requires everyone to do their role. I think having that kind of culture can create a very special season,” said Smart.

Timberline begins the 2018 season with a matchup at Dona Larsen Park against Capital. That game should provide good insight into a couple of teams that figure to battle for a playoff spot this year out of the SIC.