4. Massaponax Panthers

 

Ranking Massaponax was a tricky job. On one hand there will be those that 4 is too low for a team competes for district championships. And on the other hand there are those that feel that 4 is too high for a team that has so many new faces starting on the field. So I will try my best to address both sides.

For those that believe they are ranked too low: I recognize that Massaponax contends at a high level on a yearly basis and should be treated as a top dog until further notice. This is why they are in our top 5. But, guys... the team did lose their starting QB, both Wings, both RBs 2 WRs and multiple offensive lineman to graduation. And that's just on the offensive side of the ball, Massaponax tends to play their best 11 players both ways meaning that same amount of talent is the on both sides. This team will have growing pains it is bound to happen in the system that this team runs and in the district that this team plays in. I expect the Panthers to still be contenders and be one of the best in the area, but understand the Senior class that just left Massaponax is one of the best the 540 has ever seen. Don't expect as many 40 point drubbings that are over by halftime this season.

For those that believe they are ranked too high. Believe it or not this is not the first time Ludden and staff has lost an elite senior class to graduation. As a matter of fact it is not even his second or third for that matter. I have been following Fredericksburg area football long enough to remember the sigh of relief teams around the area took when Alphonso Trice, Javonte Latney, Vincent Mihota and Company graduated. That lasted all but 8 months until Joey Benden, Bo Fields, and Gus Little began to dominate on the field. Then well, I'm confident you can see where I am going with this. Ponax has been doing this longer than the days of Alphonso Trice, pushing out an abundance of talent is simply what they do. And let's be be clear one benefit about blowing your opponent out by halftime other than the obvious fact that you're going to win is having the opportunity to get your younger guys real game experience. Players like (QB) Donte Hawthorne, (Do it all) Nathaniel Quance and (RB/LB) Tyheem Kimble showed bright flashes last season expect them to be leaders on this inexperienced yet talented Massaponax squad.

                                   

Record Prediction: 8-2