Opponent Preview: Euclid (Week 3)

This is the third of my previews of Mentor's opponents for the 2013 season.

Week 3

Who:  Euclid Panthers

What:   Non-league game

Where:  Sparky Dibiaso Stadium (Euclid)

When:  September 14th at 7:00pm

Opposing Coach:  Tom Gibbons (6th season, 28-24 record)

History:  Mentor and Euclid have played one another for decades, having been in the GCC and LEL together.  The Cardinals have a slight edge (20-16) in the overall series. 

Looking Back...
Mentor's 33-13 win in Week 1 in 2012 ended up being the 2nd lowest scoring game of the season.  It may have been party due to a slow start in August, but also give credit to Euclid.  Last year Euclid went 7-3 and finished 2nd in the LEL behind Warren Harding.  A narrow 28-20 loss to the Raiders in Week 7 was all that separated Euclid from winning the league and getting a playoff spot.  Euclid was a very senior-laden team in 2012.  LB Myles Alexander (1st team all-district), 360-pound OL Matt Blaha, 1,000-yard rusher Juwan Ford, and leading receiver Rakeesh Nolden are among those who graduated. 

Schedule...
The 2013 schedule includes a non-conference slate of Hudson, Cleveland Central Catholic, and Mentor.  The LEL schedule is headlined by Warren Harding (2012 playoff team) and Cleveland Heights (17-3 last two seasons).  Euclid had an impressive 6-1 record in league play last season.  It will be difficult to match or surpass that given the number of seniors (30+) that have graduated.  Key games on the schedule include the opener against Hudson and league rival Cleveland Heights. 

2013 Euclid Outlook...
The Panthers were built to have a strong 2012 with so much experience on their roster.  They couldn't be further from that in 2013.  One area of strength and experience will be in the secondary with Ryan Epps, Christian Priah, and Harrison Roberts all coming back.  Ryshawn Johnson stepped in to play QB as a sophomore last season, so expect some progression at the position.  Euclid will bring back a couple big starters on the offensive line as well.  Euclid will be inexperienced, but should be able to win some games with the help of a strong coaching staff, returning QB, a big offensive line, and an experienced secondary. 

Next Preview:  Twinsburg (Week 4)