August 9, 2012
2012 Team Preview: |
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QB Kevin Parker looks to lead Marist to the state playoffs for the first time since 2005. (Photo: Jason Bernstein) |
| Marist Football Practice Photo Gallery |
By Jason Bernstein Editorial Director |
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BAYONNE – With one of the youngest teams in the county, it was another rough season for Marist as it endured a 3-7 campaign in 2011, the first under Dwayne Williams.
Now a year older and more experienced, the optimism and expectations are higher within the Bayonne school
"I think we're going to surprise a few teams," Williams said. "We'll be more prepared. I think a lot of my guys have been tested. We were beat up a little bit last year. Even though getting beat up wasn't a nice sight, at the end of the year we were starting to turn the corner."
Such optimism is understandable with the return of 19 starters. With such experience and talent back, the Royal Knights have playoffs on their mind, something they haven't accomplished since 2005.
Offensive Overview:
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Junior Christian Gonzalez is a returning starter at left tackle for the Royal Knights. (Photo: Jason Bernstein) |
| Marist Football Practice Photo Gallery |
Senior Kevin Parker (6'3", 190) returns at quarterback for the Royal Knights and is a dual-threat under the center.
Parker is one of four legit running options in the backfield. Will Robinson returns at fullback with Aaron Smith back at running back. They will split carries with D'Ondre Robinson (5'8", 160), who is capable of scoring whenever the ball is in his hands.
"I think he's going to be an explosive guy," Williams said. "He's going to put some numbers up and I think he's going to surprise some people."
Daryl Black (6'3", 195) is a vertical threat at receiver with junior Justin Burnett at the other end. Junior Kyle Stradford (6'2", 215) returns at tight end.
The Royal Knights have four juniors returning on the offensive line, headlined by left tackle Christian Gonzalez (6'3.5", 260). Nick Napoleon starts at right tackle, Giovanny Alfaro is at center and Shadaun Brown returns at right guard. Senior Andrew Fianeaca and junior Nijah Chambers are competing for the left guard spot.
Defensive Overview:
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Senior free safety Daryl Black is one of 10 returning starters on defense for Marist. (Photo: Jason Bernstein) |
| Marist Football Practice Photo Gallery |
Williams' defense reverts back to a 3-4 front after playing predominantly in the 4-4 a season ago.
Marist welcomes back Elijah Acloque (6'4", 200) at inside linebacker after the senior missed seven games due to injury.
"Elijah's a difference maker," Williams said. "He's the hardest working football player on this team by far."
Gonzalez anchors the middle of the defensive line with the strength that allows him to wreak havoc in an opposing backfield.
"Christian can be a major problem," Williams said. "Christian's a hell of a football player. I think he'll be a better player defensively."
Gonzalez will be joined on the line with Alfaro and Napoleon as returning starters. Andre Hodges, Fianeaca and Chambers all provide depth up front.
D'Ondre Robinson starts at one cornerback spot along with junior Allon Wiggins. Black and Smith start at safety to complete a veteran secondary.
Star Spotlight: Aaron Smith, RB/SS
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Senior RB/SS Aaron Smith is a three-sport standout at Marist. (Photo: Jason Bernstein) |
| Marist Football Practice Photo Gallery |
Aaron Smith was a key contributor to Marist's incredible run to Hudson County and Non-Public, B state championships this spring. Now as he heads to the gridiron, the senior wants to bring that same winning attitude and confidence to a team which is seeking its first playoff appearance in seven years.
"I'm very determined this year. After winning a state championship (in baseball), I want to encourage my team that we can do that too. Anybody can do it."
Smith, a third baseman/shortstop on the diamond, considers baseball to be his best sport, but he certainly makes an impact on the football field as well, rushing for 1,200 yards last season.
A three-year starter, who also starts at strong safety and occasionally sees time as an option quarterback, Smith is sure to make an impact regardless of position.
"Aaron can start on anybody's team. He's a legit football player," head coach Dwayne Williams said. "He's a solid player and he makes this team goes. He makes big plays. When the game's on the line I can rely on Aaron to make big plays."
2012 Marist Overview |
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| HCIAL American; Non-Public, Group II |
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