Strong defense looks to lead Boulder Creek to success in 2012

In 2011, there were high expectations for the Boulder Creek Jaguars to take their program to a level they have not yet achieved. After a hot 4-1 start, they went on to lose four of the last six games and were eliminated by Desert Ridge in the first round of the playoffs.

But the Jaguars are back in 2012 and ready to build off their early post-season exit. The team is returning seven starters. Two of which on the defensive side of the ball in defensive backs Ryan McKinley and Isaiah Huston, who together make up one of the most dynamic secondaries in the state. Between the two, they had eight interceptions and were 5th and 6th on the team in tackles in 2011.

McKinley currently has six offers from the collegiate level including NAU and Yale. Huston poised to have another big season, should receive a lot of attention from schools at the next level in the process.

Teams also cannot sleep on the Jaguars offense. Huston will look to be a standout offensively as well. He led the team in receiving in 2011 with close to 500 yards and three touchdowns. However, the biggest impact the Jaguars will look to make offensively will be through their running game.

“Senior Stephen Landeros is a three-year starter and was first team all-section last year,” explained Boulder Creek Head Coach Dan Friedman. “He will have a huge impact on our season!”

Landeros led the Jaguars with 676 yards rushing in 2011 including ten total touchdowns. But what will be key in Boulder Creek’s running attack will be the play of their offensive line. Coach Friedman believe’s his line is “unproven” and is expecting his front five in the trenches to step up for their offense to have success.

It will also be important for the Jaguars to remain healthy as they need more depth across the board on their roster.

The Boulder Creek Jaguars kick-off their 2012 campaign on the road at Cactus Shadows on August 24.