High school football: Cottonwood Colts 2009 preview

Cottonwood's final season in the 4A ranks turned out memorable in several ways.

The Colts posted an undefeated regular season record. They boasted a defense that yielded just 15.4 points per game – a number which placed Cottonwood 4th among 4A schools. Offensively, the team showcased an equally dominant streak. Cottonwood scored 38.5 points per game. Only Timpview boasted a better scoring offense in 4A.

Those numbers spoke to the Colts' all-around strength. But they also lost some of their luster after the T-Birds edged Cottonwood 34-28 in the 4A championship game to claim a third consecutive state title.

Closing out a season on such a final note left a sour taste for many on the Colts roster afterward.

"Last year wasn't good enough," senior defensive back Kyle Aberton said. "We have to build."

Cottonwood's construction project begins with a return to 5A. Considering the materials the Colts have to start from, what they build this season should resemble a fortress from the perspective of their opponents.

It all starts with a defense returning eight starters from that formidable '08 unit. All of the defensive linemen have returned, with only two seniors up front. Cottonwood also enjoys plenty of depth at the linebacker position.

The secondary is probably the strongest component, with a pair of seasoned cornerbacks – Aberton and fellow senior Etu Moli – leading the way. Moli and Aberton combined for 106 tackles and seven interceptions as juniors last season.

Perhaps the trait that most defines the '09 version of the Colt defense is the speed it possesses. While last year's group was fast, head coach Cecil Thomas believes the defensive side of the ball will prove to be even quicker this fall.

"It's like a pack of wolves getting into a piece of meat," Thomas said. "They all want a part of the football, so they fly around and get after it."

As bright as things look for Cottonwood on defense, the offense might not miss a step either. The Colts graduated several stars including John Martinez, Isi Sofele and Steve Romero. But they also return six starters on that side of the ball.

Depth and talent are most pronounced among the receivers. Jason Lundquist will be counted on to lead after catching 48 passes for 917 yards and eight touchdowns during his junior season. Spencer Larsen, Tim Glenn and Chandler Hudson also have plenty of potential to be go-to targets in the team's passing attack.