2003 LHS Defense
After a disastrous start in week one against New Lexington, the LHS defense re-tooled and didn't allow more than twenty points again all season in 2002. In fact, in six SEOAL games the Chiefs allowed only 46 points (7.6 points per game) and allowed one offensive TD against the league's top three offenses (Athens, Gallia, and Marietta).
Although the defense returns only five starters, they should be even better in 2003. Of course, it always starts in the middle of the defensive line for the Chiefs. Two Sophomores have been solid during two-a-days at Noseguard, Stephen Spears, a wiry Woodgeard-esque player and Kevin Call, a kid who brings a scary combination of size and strength. Def. Tackle leaves two big holes to fill, and several players have stepped up. A rotation of Senior Jason Starr (6'0-220), Juniors Rob Rose (6'1-300) and Jacob Bray (5'8-175), and Sophomores Bruce Lehman, Justin Coakley, and Tyson Kratzenburg will all see time early in 2003. Starr and Coakley appear to be a top of the long list, but all six players will get a chance to prove themselves. The Defensive Ends should be a strong point on a young defensive front. Senior Tyler Ackison (6'1-190) played a bulk of the minutes following the loss of Jason Dicken in 2002, meanwhile Junior Nathan Wagner (6'0-185) has emerged as a budding star. Junior Jake Wolfe (6'2-165) and Sophomore Tyson Kratzenburg may rotate as well.
The linebackers will be the heart and soul of the defense in 2003, and the two returning starters are ready to do the job. Senior Steve Call (5'11-200) moves from outside LB to the Middle in 2003. Steve is coming off an All-SEOAL and All-SE District Honorable Mention season. Outside LB Josh Sturgell, team leader in INTs in 2002, returns after an outstanding 2002 season. The two will form the emotional center of the defense. Junior Justin Pack (5'10-175) started two games at OLB in 2002, and will be the starter there in 2003. Junior Jacob Bray (5'8-170) and Sophomores Justin Coakley and Adam Stohs provide depth, and could even challenge for starting roles.
The defensive secondary took a hit when B.J. Hughes was lost, but cornerback is one of the teams deepest positions. Junior Tory Kratzenburg along with Sophomores Kevin Call and Michael Sexton will battle for the other starting role. At safety, Junior Jordan Walsh (5'9-155) has the spot locked down will Sophomore Kevin Call providing depth.
The Chieftain defense should be one of the quickest in memory. The linebacking corps. is solid, and a lot of depth appears on the defensive line. If the D-Line can hold up against bigger linemen in the first few games, look for big things for the Purple and White.