Archbishop Moeller started hot last season but fizzled ahead of an early playoff exit. This year's team is looking to finish the job.
Photo by Wayne Litmer
On paper,
Archbishop Moeller (Cincinnati) appears to have the most talent in the Greater Catholic League and possibly the greater Cincinnati area.
Last year, Moeller started the season with seven straight victories before dropping three in a row and eventually getting bounced from the Region 4 playoffs by rival St. Xavier. In 2012, it hopes to start off strong once again and continue to push to the finish - which for this team, is a Division 1 state title.
MaxPreps Preseason Top 25 High School Football Early ContendersJohn Rodenberg’s squad returns a big, skilled offense that begins with
Spencer Iacovone, who will be a three-year starter at quarterback. Iacovone is a true dual threat, as his 6-foot-2, 205-pound frame allows him to lower his shoulder and get critical yards on the ground.
Most of the team’s running plays will be designed for
Keith Watkins. With offers from several Big Ten and Big East schools, Watkins should be one of the top running backs in the state this fall.
Alex Gall, another blue-chip recruit, will open up holes for Watkins. Fellow linemen
Matt Noble and
Chris Hanke also return to form what will likely be one of the team’s strengths: an experienced, physical offensive line.
Tight end
Evan Jansen will have to step up to replace some of the production lost due to the graduation of standout receiver Monty Madaris. Look for
Keith Rucker and
Gus Ragland to pick up some slack as well.
Spencer Iacovone is a familiar name at quarterback.
Photo by Wayne Litmer
The team’s best player resides on the defensive side of the ball, with linebacker
Shane Jones. Jones, already committed to Michigan State, accounted for 90 tackles last fall as well as two sacks, two interceptions and six pass breakups.
Jimmy Rodenberg is also back at linebacker for the Crusaders.
Chalmer Frueauf brings experience to what will otherwise be a young defensive line.
Sam Hubbard, a junior already committed to Notre Dame for lacrosse, will help man the secondary. Both units will be young, but Rodenberg feels that the young talent in the program is ready to step in.
Local look: “Moeller has plenty of expectations for this season. With several talented players returning, this is definitely a team which will be in the spotlight early and often starting in August. Senior linebacker Shane Jones (Michigan State), offensive lineman Alex Gall (University of Miami) have already verbally committed and there should be several additional commitments when it's all said and done. Coach John Rodenberg will undoubtedly have this team prepared for another rugged schedule.”
- Mike Dyer, Cincinnati Enquirer
