Photo By Loren Orr - #2 Andy Peters
Written By: Sven Alskog
Last season did not go according to plan for the Timberline Wolves, with an 0-9 record the end result of a season that leaves the group hungry to get started on the new campaign.
A clear bright spot on the roster resides at the quarterback position, where senior Andy Peters will be one of the top signal callers in the state this year.
“He should be a D1 quarterback. He has worked hard to put himself in a position to be a big-time quarterback,” said head coach Ian Smart.
Another standout this offseason who will be a pivotal piece of the puzzle is linebacker and running back Kyle Adams.
“He has really attacked the weight room and it shows. He has gained 25 pounds this offseason and has become a significant leader,” added Smart.
On the offensive side of things, figuring out how to move the ball without Ed Osterberger will be a key order of business.
Sam Rodenbaugh and Nicolas Caballero are two of the receivers who will look to help in that regard as go-to options for Peters.
There are some clear keys to success for the offense this year according to the coach.
“Creating some consistency and familiarity and comfortability within the system should help us moving forward. Having the same staff coming back should help us make some improvements.”
He also likes the chemistry of the group.
“This group seems to get along much better. They have really worked to develop a family dynamic,” said Smart. “We have really worked to help these kids become football minds.”
In order to take the next step, the Wolves will need the defense to force some more turnovers and become more opportunistic.
“We have to be better tacklers and create turnovers. Last season we lacked the big play on defense. It is hard to generate momentum when you don’t create big plays,” added Smart.
This will be a big season for the Timberline program, as the Wolves enter year three under Smart. As it currently stands, he is excited about the future.
“I believe we are making progress toward making Timberline football something special. The leaders of this group have really worked to change the trajectory of the program. I am hopeful they get to experience the fruits of their labor.”
Timberline begins the 2019 season on August 31 with a home game at Dona Larsen Park against the Mountain View Mavericks.