Springfield eyes another Central League title

Coach: Chris Britton (Second season)

2014 Record:  12-1 (9-0 Central League)

2014 In Two Sentences:  The Cougars triumphed over all comers for 12 consecutive weeks and won the program’s first Central League title since 1994. They suffered their one and only loss of the year to Great Valley in the District One Class AAA championship game.

Key Departures: Adam Krauter (LB), Brian Layden (DL-OL), Brian Allen (QB), Lucas Spence (DB), Colin Bracconier (RB).

Looking Ahead:  The Cougars turn the page on an amazing season.  It’s won’t be easy replacing the Adam Krauters and Brian Laydens of the world, but the Cougars remain in a good position to challenge for the Central League title. You’d have to like their chances for a repeat.

While the starting quarterback position remains a bit of a work in progress, the Cougars have the type of athletic talent that is conducive to their multiple spread offense.

On defense, it could be argued that Springfield has the best returning lineman (Dan Archibong) and linebacker (Ricky Sterling) in Delco. Throw in a 6-3, 290-pound two-way lineman (Matt Cella) and, well … look out.

Players to Watch: Archibong (Sr. TE-DE) is a 6-5, 245-pounder with beast potential (that’s a good thing). He’s committed to Temple for next year.

Sterling (Sr. FB-LB) is cut from the same cloth of other recent Springfield linebacker greats such as Krauter, Tyler Morrissey and Mike Dougherty.

Cella will anchor the offensive line. Brett Sheeran (Sr. WR-DB) is a big weapon at both skill positions. Sheeran has the potential to do a lot of damage out wide.

Joe Davis (Sr. RB-LB) gets the call up from varsity. Pat Smyth (Sr. WR-DB) played a big role on defense for last year’s squad.

Last, but not least, the Cougars welcome in Tom Becker (Sr. FB-LB), who was an All-Catholic League AAA linebacker at Bonner-Prendergast last fall. He should fit in just fine in the Cougars’ multiple 4-4 defensive front.

Season Opener: Away at Interboro, Friday, Sept. 4, 7 p.m.