High School Football: Gunnison Bulldogs 2009 preview

GUNNISON — With the shifting of regions moving many former 2A teams up to the 3A ranks this year, Gunnison head football coach Rhett Jackson seemed quite optimistic about the 2009 season.

"With some of the bigger teams moving up to 3A, it kind of levels the playing field at the 2A level and should make for a fun year," Jackson said.

Gunnison is coming off a 2-8 record from last season, and the team has set the bar high at reaching the playoffs, something the Bulldogs have longed to do for years.

"Last year was one of those years," said Jackson. "We had a few injuries, played some close games, but it was just a hard year for us."

That could all be a thing of the past.

Gunnison has more experience coming into this season, as many underclassmen gained valuable playing time last season.

"Our kids have more experience than it says on paper," said Jackson.

"Some of the younger kids logged some serious varsity time last season, and we're hoping to carry it into the upcoming season."

With 11 starters returning from last year's squad, everyone is expected to do their job and win games.

Running back Cutler Frandsen is returning for his third year as a starter, and his experience is why his coach deems him the "coach on the field."

Frandsen also plays on the other side of the ball at the linebacker position, something Jackson hinted as one of his team's biggest strengths.

Junior linebacker Rogan Neal is expected to be the spark for the Bulldogs' defense that Jackson is counting on.

"Rogan should emerge as an exciting player this year," said Jackson. "I'm expecting him to make some big plays."

All in all, Gunnison is poised to come out and play solid football. They're an experienced team that could really mix things up with the region shift.

"Our first game will be a real test against South Sevier, and could set the tone for what we hope to accomplish," said Jackson.

"If we stay healthy, there is no reason we can't make the playoffs."

Gunnison Bulldogs at a glance

Coach: Rhett Jackson