The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper The Spokesman-Review
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883
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The Spokesman-Review

Getting offensive

Pullman, Colville, Clarkston and West Valley will all move the football. Returning All-GNL quarterback JT Levenseller from Pullman, who threw 29 touchdown passes, including two to rally the Greyhounds to the state title win; WV’s Bryan Peterson, 1,314 passing yards in the GSL; and Clarkston’s Trent Line, more than 1,000 yards, can all fling it. On the receiving end they have speedy receivers, such as WV’s Casey Sherrill and Clarkston’s Clayton Johnson. Colville’s John Roberts rushed for more than 1,400 yards. Coaches say he is the best player in league and he is attracting Division I interest. WV’s Camron Bowman rushed for 333 yards in one GSL game last year. Although new, Pullman’s backfield is strong, led by Mike Mienes. Deer Park tight end Richie Mullenberg and Colville guard Logan Goff are returning All-GNL second-teamers.

Case for the defense

Here is what makes or breaks a team. Clarkston is deep in the line and experienced, particularly at linebacker where four players return, including Brian O’Kelley and Randall Hansen. WV linebacker Corey Lewis was second-team All-GSL. Defense is also Riverside’s forte, led by All-GNL lineman Nick Irwin. Colville’s Cody Yecha (first team) and Trevor Fox (second) were All-GNL defensive backs. Pullman linebacker Joel Turtle is also a second-team returnee.

What to expect?

By rights, veteran speed-burning Clarkston, skills-strong West Valley and Cheney should have the advantage after playing in the Greater Spokane League against 4A schools. “We played them for a long time in the Frontier League and played non-league games against them,” said Colville coach Randy Cornwell. “We watched them when they were in the GSL and part of me was going, ‘We could have done as well.’ ” At least one coach, Deer Park’s Keith Stamps, thinks Colville, with its returning experience, is the team to beat. Plus, you can’t bet against Pullman. “I think the league is more balanced,” said Pullman coach Bill Peterson. “Those days of teams going 9-0 might be over.”