[tps_title] Pennsbury Tigers [/tps_title]
Pennsbury defensive line coach Kevin Blair gives instructions at practice. (Gregg Slaboda photo)
Pennsbury vows to get back to winning ways
Following a rare down season that resulted in a 5-5 record in 2016, all signs point towards the Pennsbury High School football team returning to its winning ways.
Whether the Falcons are ready to reemerge as a league champion and a strong contender in the district remains to be seen. 
Although it wasn’t up to past Pennsbury standards, last year’s defense wasn’t all that bad. Where the Falcons really struggled was in their new spread offense that never really got untracked all year.
The fact Pennsbury has eight returning starters on offense and six on defense means the team will better because of the experience factor alone. Another plus is the offense should be more productive now that the players have become more familiar with the spread.
“We’re excited,’’ said second-year head coach Dan McShane, who previously ran the Pennsbury defense for five years under Galen Snyder. “We have a better idea this year of what our players can do.
“We’ll still be in the spread, but we also remain committed to our power running game. We’re looking forward to it. Our kids are excited.’’
Among those returning to the offense backfield are senior running back Nasan Robbins and senior quarterback Zach Demarchis, who was slowed at the start of last year because of an injury.
Robbins and Co. should benefit from an improved offensive line. Senior Division 1 prospect Matt Rosso (6-6, 260) returns at guard for an offensive line bolstered by the addition of two promising transfers.
The Pennsbury defense will also be improved and cut down on points allowed. Standouts up front include senior Michael Gabora and sophomore Davis Lee. Gabora has a real nose for the ball and is also an effective pass rusher.
“We had a strong sophomore class last year and now all those juniors are ready to step it up,” said McShane.
In other words things are getting back to normal for the Falcons.
By Rick Fortenbaugh; rfortenbaugh@trentonian.com
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