Publication Date: Friday, September 09, 2005
PREP FOOTBALL '05
Gunn hopes passing game will click
Gunn hopes passing game will click
(September 09, 2005) by Tim Goode
Gunn passed its first test of the season, coming out of its scrimmage with Capuchino without injuries and just some minor details to work on.
The Titans are in their second season of running the spread offense and the experience of junior quarterback Tucker Laurence will make that unique offense difficult for opponents to prepare for.
"I am not worried about the running part of our offense," said coach Sam Picture, beginning his sixth season. "But we need to work on our passing. Our goal coming into this season is to be more balanced."
Gunn (0-6, 2-8 in 2004), will match up better this season since dropping from the SCVAL De Anza Division to the El Camino.
"Fortunately we're back in the El Camino, where we'll have a legitimate chance to compete for a championship," Picture said.
Gunn's two victories last season came against Lynbrook (55-21) and Santa Clara (33-18), both from the El Camino Division. Laurence figured in both those victories, which should help confidence-wise this season.
"Tucker is our offense," Picture said. "He's a perfect option quarterback."
Laurence (6-0, 170) is a good enough athlete to be adept at both throwing and running. Picture said as soon as Laurence slows down and scans the field, the offense will be even more threatening.
Senior running back Cory Babbington played well in the Titans' scrimmage against Capuchino and will join with Chevy Riley to form a backfield that opposing defenses will have trouble finding (both Babbington and Riley are 5-7) and tackling. Include senior Al Giaccia (5-6, 150) in that group, as well.
Wide receiver Stephen Campbell (6-0, 170) is the most experienced returning pass catcher, while senior Ben Arnold (6-2, 180) is an able backup to Laurence at QB and may be used in more passing situations.
Francisco Soto (6-4, 260) is the sole returning starter on the offensive line and will double as a defensive tackle. Robert Chen, who was a major contributor last season, takes over at center. Robert Hemenway (6-3, 250) will play left tackle while four other players are vying for the final two line positions.
"On the offensive side we have the potential to be good," Picture said.
Gunn's top offensive players are its top defensive players. Riley is the middle linebacker and defensive captain. "He knows the scheme and makes sure everyone is in the right spot," Picture said.
Laurence is the free safety and a top playmaker. Campbell is a defensive end and, with Soto, make up a strong pass rush. The remaining defense is new and untested.
Gunn's roster has 31 players so staying injury-free will be pivotal to the Titans' postseason hopes.
"We have to stay healthy," Picture said. "Our roster also limits how we practice and how much scrimmage time we have. We have had to scale back but the players we have are hard workers and quick learners."
Gunn opens its 2005 season today at Mountain View of the De Anza Division. After another nonleague road game on Sept. 16 against Carlmont, the Titans will open their home season against rival Palo Alto on Sept. 23 before the El Camino campaign begins on Sept. 30 against visiting Fremont.
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