ROGERS -- Two-thirds of the Rogers High depth chart at defensive line is penciled in as the Mounties prepare for Monday's scrimmage at Little Rock Central.
Defensive line coach Mike Bush hopes he can add to that depth chart after the scrimmage with the 7A/6A-East Tigers.
The Skinny
Position Battle: Defensive Line
Biggest Strength: Versatility. … All the Mounties defensive linemen work at all three positions in the 3-4 defensive alignment which helps with depth.
Biggest Question Mark: Varsity Experience. … Tanner Campbell is the only returning starter after playing nose guard last season. Ben Madden was the primary backup last season at all three spots on the line but after those two playing experience is minimal.
Watch Out For: Daniel Salvador. … The 6-foot-1, 225-pound junior did not play last season but he is expected to play a key role this season. “We really like his athleticism,” defensive line coach Mike Bush said.
"The kids are working hard and we are starting to fill in the depth chart," Bush said. "But it is basically a rebuilding year. The third, fourth and fifth lineman, it is truly wide open."
Nose guard Tanner Campbell is the only returning starter on the defensive line while fellow senior Ben Madden saw extensive action in Mounties 3-4 defensive alignment. Campbell (5-foot-9, 211 pounds) had seven tackles and four assists last season and the senior may also log time at defensive tackle.
"They bring back experience and leadership," Bush said. "They serve as a role model for the other guys. They know what the expectations are."
Madden was the primary backup at all three spots on the defensive line last season and the 6-1, 210-pound senior had one of the key plays for the Mounties last season.
Facing a must win against Siloam Springs to advance to the playoffs, Madden returned his own blocked field goal 70 yards for a touchdown that gave the Mounties an early 7-0 lead in what would turn out to be a 38-14 victory over the Panthers.
"That was a huge turning point in that game," Bush said. "It gave us the momentum that we needed. The intensity of the game increased. Big defensive plays in that ball game gave us a boost and that helped get the offense turned around. Ben provides a spark and he plays with a lot of intensity."
All the defensive linemen work at all three spots on the defensive line to create depth, Bush said.
"We learn up front to play on either side of the nose guard or the tackle," Bush said. "I always work with the guys to play other positions."
Seniors Looper Ward (5-9, 216) and Trent Lukassen (6-1, 230) and juniors Brandon Willis (5-11, 174) and Daniel Salvador (6-1, 225) are all in the mix up front. Salvador did not play last season.
"I would love to have six ready when the season starts," Bush said. "Willis has made great strides this summer and during two-a-days. Daniel is some one we have our eyes on."
Mounties head coach Shawn Flannigan said that Salvador has worked hard to make up for sitting out last season.
"Daniel has been a great addition and we are excited about him," Flannigan said. "Daniel is catching up fast. He was very good as a ninth grader and we are glad to have him back. He looks to be pushing for a starting spot."
Sports on 08/21/2014