Warren Cousino

Helmet courtesy of Michigan Helmet Project

League: Macomb Area Conference

White Division
Last season: 3-6
Opening game: 7 p.m. Aug. 27 against Utica Stevenson at home

Offense

Key player: Tony Bassett, senior, running back

Bassett brings speed to the rushing attack as Cousino looks to move away from a power ground game to better utilize his skills.

“He’s a quick runner, and he’s a strong running back who’s tough to bring down,” coach Mike Powell said. “We’re going to change the offense up a little bit to get him the ball on the outside.”

Special teams

Key player: Matt Scarchilli, junior, kicker

After spending his first-ever year playing football as the varsity kicker, Scarchilli returns and has shown the ability to continue his growth within the sport.

“We’re expecting good things from Matt,” Powell said. “He’ll be kicking off, kicking extra points and kicking field goals. He’s really worked hard to be a better kicker.”

Coach’s outlook

After winning 22 games in two years from 2006-07, the Patriots won three games last year with a roster learning the ropes against competition in the MAC White and in crossovers with the Red.

“We’ve got to stay in games,” Powell said of what hurt last year’s squad. “We can’t get behind by two or three scores, because that really changes your offensive game plan.”

Powell is looking for his players to build on the lessons from 2008 as they get back to filling Cousino’s trophy case in 2009.

“We had a real good offseason and summer working out, and our outlook is to get back to competing for a league championship,” Powell said.