Ford II running back Nick Rose takes a handoff from quarterback Rodney Ambrose during a practice last week. Source photo by Kevin Lozon

This year the Falcons are hoping to take that next step and earn at least one more victory, assuring themselves a spot in the playoffs and a chance at making a run for a state championship.

If Ford is to make the playoffs, it will look to its offensive and defensive lines to lead the way. Both sides of the trenches are loaded with returning talent.

On the offensive line, returning are seniors Matt Nemer-Kaiser, Gary Dibella, Shane Jesiel and junior Zach Orris. Jesiel will anchor the defensive line and will be accompanied by seniors Chris Kropp, Vince Vultaggio, Dan L’Homme and junior newcomer Darren Devgood.

“The strength of our team is in the trenches,” Ford coach Jay Anthes said. “Our skill kids will come along. It’s an area of focus we’re trying to get up to speed. Right now we’re moving in the right direction.”

Anthes credits strength and conditioning coach Shaun Tahrebandi for getting the linemen in great shape for this season.

“I can’t begin to tell you how amazing Shaun is with our kids,” Anthes said. “They’ve worked with him five days a week since last November.”

Ford is also looking for big things offensively from its skill positions. Leading the Falcons out of the huddle is senior Rodney Ambrose, who played running back and wide receiver last year. Joining him in the backfield is senior Nick Rowe, who rushed for 800 yards and scored nine touchdowns in seven games last season, and senior John Amore.

“Rodney has the athleticism and ability to make big plays on any average play,” Anthes said. “He and Nick are three-year starters for us.”

The Falcons are young at wide receiver, with senior Anthony Mauldin the only returnee. Newcomers outside include juniors Joe Serwick and Terry Gissendanner Sophomore Aaron Cox will handle tight end duties.

On defense, the Falcons bring back plenty of experience at linebacker and the secondary.

At linebacker, Ford returns seniors Mike Risk and Amore, with newcomer Kyle Campbell, a junior, vying for a starting spot. The secondary welcomes back seniors Chad Pace, Marco D’Angelo, Ryan Posavetz, Anthony Bitel, Rowe and Ambrose.

“We’ve got more quality depth here than we’ve had in many years,” Anthes said. “We have to stay healthy and get better each week. Last year we started strong and tailed off at the end. We’re trying to make a point to get stronger and better each week.”

The kicking game is one question mark for Ford as it enters the season. Sophomore newcomer Aaron Berthet is currently holding both the punting and kicking duties.

“Aaron’s only a sophomore but he has a load of potential,” Anthes said.

Ford will compete in the MAC Red Division again this season and Anthes said he likes his team’s chances to compete for the league crown.

“We should be in the thick of things,” Anthes said. “It’s a crapshoot every year. Everybody has a ton of talent and is very well-coached. We have to stay healthy and catch a few breaks along the way. Dakota is still the favorite and will be until somebody can knock them off.”

The Falcons open their season this Thursday night at L’Anse Creuse North at 7 p.m.