Sterling Heights High

Helmet courtesy of Michigan Helmet Project

League: Macomb Area Conference Blue Division
Last season: 5-4
Opening game: 7 p.m. Aug. 27 at Marine City High

Offense

Key player: Horace Lane, junior, running back

After being one of the driving forces behind the Stallions’ 2008 MAC Blue championship, Lane is back behind a veteran offensive line — led by seniors Chris Folden (left guard) and Chris Gobart (center).

“He has made (my) transition very easy,” coach Brent Widdows said referring to the luxury of having a reliable back like Lane during his first season as a head coach.

Widdows was the team’s defensive coordinator for the past few seasons.

“But our senior offensive line makes it easy for Horace,” he said. “Our left guard and center have been playing next to each other for three years, and they’re very bright young men who know what to do on the football field.”

Special teams

Key player: Mario Morana, junior kicker/punter

After serving as the extra-point specialist as a sophomore, Morana will handle all the kicking duties this season.

“(Morana) kicked a 55-yarder in practice,” Widdows said. “He’s a soccer player playing football, and he’s got a very strong leg.”

Coach’s outlook

Despite bringing home a MAC Blue title last season, the Stallions missed out on the playoffs after losing their final regular-season game.

Widdows is hoping that serves as added motivation as Sterling Heights looks to make it back to the postseason for the first time since 2003.

“If you ask any of these seniors, they’re going to say, ‘Give me one more week,’” Widdows said of trading a MAC title for a playoff appearance.

“We have to get to six wins, and let’s not wait till week nine to get there. These kids are hungry, and they want their shot.”