FOOTBALL
Lindquist uses lessons of 2009 run
By L. SCOTT HAINLINE CHRONICLE CORRESPONDENT
Sept. 3, 2010, 1:55PM
Concordia coach Bobby Lindquist watched an 0-6 start turn into a 4-7 playoff season last year, and he's hoping for a similar ending in 2010.
"We have another challenging early schedule, and that really helped us later in the season last year," said Lindquist, who is in his second season as head coach and eighth overall with the Crusaders.
A season-opening 28-25 victory against St. John's
"We need to see this kind of speed and talent now because that's what we'll face in district," Lindquist said. "Our district gets tougher every year, and to help us grow, we need these early tests."
Concordia brings back seven offensive starters in seniors Christian Wilke (tight end) and Jordan Miller (guard), and juniors Matt Nevins (guard), Nathan Potter (quarterback), Eddie Brucculeri (fullback), Mark Schroeder (halfback), and Chance Gray (tailback), a 1,000-plus yard rusher in 2009.
Offensive newcomers are senior Tyler Brandenburg (tackle), and juniors Chase Carpenter (tackle) and Adam Fingleman (center).
"Fingleman is not only new to the varsity, but he's new to being a center," Lindquist said, "and he's doing a great job.
"Compared to what just about everyone else is doing these days with the spread attack, we run an old-style Wing T or Slot T offense. Our opponents have to prepare for something different when they face us, and it allows us to use several ball carriers in our running game."
Seniors Michael Burks (cornerback) and Ryan Bell (tackle), and juniors Chris Syzdek (nose guard) and Cody Huffmeister (end) are defensive veterans, and they're teaming well with new starters that include senior Tyler Endlich (cornerback), and juniors Jake Bahr (safety), Josh Rodriguez (end) and Seth Little (linebacker).
After placing third in district with a 4-2 mark last season, the Crusaders defeated San Antonio TMI 17-10 and fell to Dallas Christian 31-14 in the playoffs.
Concordia begins District 4-Division II play against Lutheran North at 7 p.m. on Sept. 24 in Tomball.
