Trojans increase team speed, depth

The Trojans from Orland High have tackled two-a-day practice sessions in order to prepare for their second season under head coach Mike McDonald.

On Friday, the coach said he very much likes what he sees.

"They're definitely moving in the right direction," McDonald said, "we had 62 that went to camp and we had real good spring ball."

With numbers like that, coupled with a strong work ethic, there will be plenty of competition for starting roles.

The Trojans are not only moving in the right direction, according to the coach, but many of them are also moving much faster.

"We're going to run pretty much the same offense," McDonald said of the veer he favored during last year's 4-6 campaign. "We're trying to run to take advantage of our team speed. We're not big, but we're aggressive."

McDonald gave much of the credit for the speed increase to the work done by assistant coach Lorenzo Garth. Many of the Trojans padding up this season also ran on Orland's BVL co-champions track squad, which Garth coached.

Among those was senior Jose Huerta, who carried the ball 77 times for 463 yards last season. Huerta will certainly get his share of touches this season.

Senior Brandon Smith spelled Cole Sampson at the quarterback spot last year, completing 10-of-25 pass attempts for 170 yards. He and Austin Schmeltzer will share duties in the pocket, but look for the majority of the action to take place on the ground.

Also working in the Trojans favor is a bumper crop of talented juniors that marched through last season undefeated as BVL champs. While there is a notable difference between play at the two levels, these kids know how to win.

"The seniors have really picked up the leadership role," McDonald remarked, and he values that leadership to help ease the transition to varsity football.

A new addition to the coaching staff - Mike Miller - has brought a wealth of coaching experience with him, that he is imparting on the team's defensive unit.

The defense allowed 40 or more points in five of the losses last year.

"He really brings intensity," McDonald beamed, "our defense is going to be real aggressive."

Spearheading that defense will be Brett Schumann, who wrapped up 71 tackles last season. Judging by the pops of shoulder pads during the practice session, the boys are more than ready to deliver some of that aggression.

The Trojans preseason schedule is also aggressive, and should prove beneficial in getting the Trojans ready for the rigors of the Butte View League.

Orland keeps it in Glenn County in its opener, hosting their neighbors from Hamilton City. Following another home game against Lindhurst, the Trojans hit the trail to Corning and then Willows, where they will take the field for the annual Battle for the Axe with the coveted axe still in their possession.

As for the league season, everyone looks tough according to McDonald.

"We have a really good team, but everyone in the BVL has good players. Every game is going to be like a championship game."

Contact Craig Purcell at 824-1036 or cpurcell@tcnpress.com.