Team Preview:
Written By: Sven Alskog

If you are looking to identify a sleeper in the 4A classification this season, the Nampa Bulldogs just might be a team to focus in on.

Led by Second Team All-SIC honoree Donnie Estrada at receiver and Honorable Mention All-SIC selections at quarterback in Braden Minor and running back with Brian Carillo, the Bulldogs have plenty of talent at the skill positions.

“We will be returning several skill players offensively. Braden Minor is returning as our quarterback and will be contributing to the running and passing attack. We have several solid receivers. Donnie Estrada, Jace Mann and Cade Smith are talented young athletes that will help move the ball down the field. Brian Carrillo became a proven running back and is set to have great season,” said third year head coach Dan Holtry.

That talent was showcased in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl 7-on-7 passing tournament this summer in which Nampa finished second, an impressive feat for a program that is dropping down to the 4A classification this season.

The offensive line should be a strength as well, making the Bulldogs a big threat when they have the ball.

“We are excited to return four offensive linemen. Marcus Crespin, Declan Smith, Liam Shannon and Chaz Jones will lead the team in the trenches,” added Holtry.

Crespin was an Honorable Mention All-SIC selection last season in the 5A ranks.

With all the talent on the field, the big focus will be limiting turnovers and finishing drives. Holtry also says that he is hoping for more balance on the offensive side of things.

While the offense had the ability to break out and have huge games in 2017, the defensive side of the ball saw the Bulldogs give up over 30 points in every game after the opener against Caldwell. For Nampa to take the next step and fight for a playoff spot, the defense has to step up in a big way.

Alex Ashley, Chuck Cummings, Blake Cleaver and Smith all return to lead the way up front, with Kyle Owens and Shannon two returning linebackers.

Some reinforcements and an athletic defensive backfield could help pave the way for improvement as an overall unit.

“With the help of Brayden Hill and Braden Draper our linebackers will be improved. Our defensive back crew has talent and experience. Santi Reyna, Brian Carrillo, Donnie Estrada, Grant Roberts and Jace Mann will be very effective at controlling offensive passing attacks,” said Holtry.

Areas of emphasis for the coaching staff are stopping the run and preventing big plays.

If the team can continue the forward progression seen in the first two years with Holtry on the sideline, a lot of good things can happen in Nampa this season. The coach is looking forward to seeing it play out.

“We are excited to have many of our skill players back. We also have a solid core of offensive and defensive linemen returning,” he said.

A big test awaits the Bulldogs right out of the gate in week one hosting the Bishop Kelly Knights.