[tps_title]Oxford Hornets [/tps_title]
Brandon Holz, Oxford
Hornets hope to turn last year’s moral victories into real wins
EAST NOTTINGHAM >> As the Hornets enter year four under head coach Mike Means, Oxford is looking to take the next step in its growth. Despite its less than stellar record last season, Oxford began to understand it could compete with the better teams in the area, knocking on the door of several big upsets.
This season, they hope they can knock that door down. 
“The last hurdle is a mental one,” said Means. “This is a tough league, and full of teams that are tough year in and year out. We came close more than a few times last year, but just couldn’t get over that hump and close out wins. This team exudes confidence. They know they can compete. We’re excited to see that confidence translate to wins.”
Oxford returns a wealth of talent and experience at the skill positions with Chandler England, Brandon Holz and Brandon DeShields.
England (122 of 195, 1548 yards, 8 TDs, 2 INT) returns under center for the Hornets.
“Brandon is a total gym rat, determined to make the most out of his athletic ability,” said Means. “He’s like having a second coach out on the field. We ask a lot from our quarterbacks, and Chandler is up to that task. He’s probably the most prepared guy on the field.”
Holz (302 yards rushing, 25 catches for 358 and 3 TDs), part of a two-back system a year ago, will be the featured back this season.
“Brandon will get the bulk of the carries as our pistol back,” said Means. “But we have a sophomore, Tim Saber, who will also get the ball, and both backs have great speed.”
There will be a lot of new faces on the offensive line joining returning seniors Connor McMurrough (RT) and Jared Tweed (RG), along with Dan Blevins, one of only a couple two-way players for Oxford. Blevins will play center on offense and defensive end.
“There are five or six guys battling for those other spots,” said Means. “But we’re seeing the fruits of three years of our weight program, and we think with this line, we will have a much more dynamic running game than in the past.”
Leading the receiving corps is slot receiver Brandon DeShields (33 Rec, 343 yards). Joining Deshields are Brandon Williams, who will also play slot, and Elijah Thomas at the outside receiver position. Unlike previous seasons, Oxford will employ a tight end in Julian Nadachowski.
“Julian will be one of our two way players, as he will also anchor our linebackers,” said Means. “We’ll also use him as a fullback and an h-back at times. It’ll be a little different this year.”
On the defensive side, the Hornets are young, with only seniors Dom Sassi and Phillip Hurtt returning to the d-line. But big things are expected from Dylan Jobe (6-5, 310), a big sophomore.
“Dylan has as much potential as any defensive lineman I’ve ever coached,” said Means.
In the secondary, DeShields has one of the corner positions locked down, while Nate Ferro will hold down strong safety.
“Pound for pound, Nate is probably the strongest kid on the team,” said Means.
The pieces are in place. Oxford simply needs to put it together.
“We’re excited about this season,” said Means. “These kids are confident, but they also know that nothing is going to be handed to them. They know they’ll have to work hard and earn it.”
By Bill Rudick; For Pa Prep Live
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