The only thing the East Peoria football team lacks at this point is experience.
The Raiders will have a vastly different look in 2010 after losing all 11 starters on defense and seven on offense.
But after back-to-back playoff appearances, East Peoria is not reducing expectations this fall.
“We have good kids. That’s a talented class there,” fifth-year EPCHS head coach Doug Martin said of this year’s seniors. “Our Achilles’ heel is simply experience.”
The coaching staff tried in the preseason to get the players mentally and physically ready to play on Friday nights.
One key position the Raiders have a returnee at is quarterback, where senior Andrew Wallace is back.
Martin said Wallace worked very hard in the summer and is expanding his depth of understanding.
At running back, Martin listed four strong options.
“It’s one of the strengths of the team, by far,” Martin said of the position. “They all want reps, all want opportunities.”
As of Friday, senior Cody Riley, another hard worker, was a probable starter.
Michael Thompson is a “physical freak,” according to Martin, a 5-foot-11 freshman weighing 210 pounds.
Junior Jake Hornung has been a primary ball carrier the last two years on underclass teams. He will move around in the offense.
Woodruff transfer Tyshawn Burch, a senior, is a tremendous athlete who Martin said only needs to learn the team’s terminology.
At wide receiver, senior Justin Beamer came on strong in the offseason and looks to be an important target.
Another senior, Caleb Horn, has great speed and reliable hands. Martin wished he had found a role for him in ’09.
When East Peoria employs three receivers, sophomore Adam Sommer is a receiver who also has good hands. He could play tight end as well.
In a four-receiver set, junior Juan Mendoza will bring his athleticism and work ethic to the field.
The other tight end option is Hornung, who is perfectly suited for the H back role.
The offensive line has been better than expected.
“We’re really surprised and impressed with the play of the kids,” Martin said.
Sam Friedrich, a junior, is a left tackle with college football potential.
At left guard, sophomore Robby Betz is a force at 6-2, 300 pounds.
J.D. Jones, a senior, is a solid performer at center.
The right guard, Garrett Berryman, is another sophomore who has established himself in the trenches.
