Stevenson punter Brian Falta boots the ball at a recent Titan preseason practice. Source photo by Kevin Lozon

The Titans were the unfortunate recipients of last-minute losses last season ‹ five losses in the final 60 seconds to be exact. Those daunting results left the Titans with a subpar 2-7 record and needless to say, very frustrated.

Stevenson hopes to right its ship this season and coach Rick Bye said it’s time to forget about the past.

“We spent the off-season by improving on our weaknesses,” Bye said. “Football is not a seasonal sport. It’s an all-year sport. We’re building on our strength and quickness and our philosophy with our kids.”

Offensively, the Titans have many quality weapons at their disposal, led by junior third-year starting quarterback Jason Fracassa.

In two seasons, Fracassa has passed for over 3,000 yards. He will be joined in the backfield by seniors Thomas Beaurem and varsity rookie Justice Wright. At wide receiver, the Titans will look for production from returning senior Robert Hall and junior D.J. Mershman, and junior newcomer Marcus Beaurem. Back at tight end is senior Rob Strong.

Bye said he’s also looking for big things from the offensive line, which includes seniors Paul Lewis, Jacob Elias, Carl Marinelli, and juniors Corey Stone and Carl Davis.

“I like this team,” Bye said. “I like our athleticism, leadership and the good focus. That’s what you look for as a coach. You don’t look ahead. We have kids who are fighting for jobs, and our schedule is treacherous. But, what it is is what it is.”

Defensively, the Titans are hoping their speed and strength can shut down their opponents.

On the defensive line, Stevenson will look to seniors Brian Falta, Dan Lydick, Tim Brown, Viktor Simovski, Aaron Schmittler, Mike Henry, Sean Singer, Marinelli, and juniors Nick Baker and Anthony Vettese.

At linebacker, the Titans welcome back seniors Ryan Mattingly, Ben Kollsmith and newcomers, including seniors Ramsey Beard and junior Charlie Walker. The secondary will be centered around seniors Ryan Battaglia, Strong and Robert Fortier, and juniors Mershman and Dave Brown, who is also battling Falta for the kicking and punting jobs.

“Our linebackers and secondary are good,” Bye said. “It seems like when you get one position area good it makes everything come together.”

One area of concern for Bye heading into this season are the memories the returning players have of all the close losses suffered last year. He said those are history and the players must focus on the present.

“Last season’s close losses could go either way,” Bye said. “Close games this season could make the kids feel like they can’t win or it could make them more determined to win. The kids definitely want to make up for last year. We have to get off to a good start and get some confidence.”

The Titans will battle in the MAC Red Division again this season and Bye said Dakota, with back-to-back Division 1 state titles, is the team everyone is gearing toward.

“How can you not go with Dakota?” Bye said. “They’ve won two straight state championships. After that it’s a dog fight. I’ll pick us second just because of Dakota. Anyone could win it, but you have to stay away from injuries to your key kids.”

Stevenson opens its season this Thursday night at home against Warren Cousino at 7 p.m.