League: Oakland Activities Association Blue Division Last season: 4-5 Opening game: 7 p.m. Aug. 28 at Berkley High Offense Key player: Bobby Baker, senior, tackle It’s no secret that the Vikings like to run the ball, which makes Baker an important force up front. “He has experience and started there last year,” Hazel Park coach Scott Guthrie said. “He needs to get off the ball and set the tone on the line of scrimmage.” Baker is one of seven returning starters for the Vikings. Marquee matchup: Hazel Park battled to a 30-20 loss to Berkley High last season. With the Bears returning eight players on their defense, Baker and the rest of the young offensive line will need to dig deep to open up running lanes. DefenseKey player: Christian Doerfler, senior, linebacker Doerfler is one of six starters back and will be counted on greatly after finishing with 63 tackles last season. “He has a nose for the ball and likes to get to it,” Guthrie said. Marquee matchup: The good news against Auburn Hills Avondale last year is that the Vikings scored 52 points. The bad news is that they let up 53. The defense has a chance to redeem itself at 7 p.m. Oct. 9 at Avondale. Special teams Most coaches are just happy to have a reliable long snapper, but in Thomas’ case, Guthrie has an athlete that can do much more. “He gets down the field and makes plays,” the coach said. Coach’s outlook“If we can stay healthy and continue to work hard, I expect us to have a successful season,” Guthrie said. “It’s a slow process, but we’re getting there.”
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