GNL Preview Football

Returning All-GNL

Grant Gorst, OL, Colville; Frank Willis, OL, Clarkston; Sterling Hatch, OL, Pullman; Parker Flynn, WR, WV; Zach Pete, K, Colville; Justin Hale, P/K, Cheney; Brad Rumann, DL, Deer Park; Bryce Flammand, DL, Pullman; Tim Pring, LB, West Valley.

What’s the score?

West Valley will put points on the board in a hurry with Flynn and Pring catching and quarterback Bryan Peterson throwing. Cheney running back Jesus Fregoso is the GNL’s fastest and Griffon Jones may be the most intimidating presence on a team with 11 starters returning, mainly in the skilled positions.

Pullman’s experienced line, including Josh Hooks, and quick backs make them dangerous.

Clarkston has a skilled senior class featuring running back Brian O’Kelley and lineman Willis. Colville sophomore rusher Casey Cox will replace graduated all-stater John Roberts and bull behind an experienced line.

It’s OK to be defensive

This side of the ball could make the difference in the standings. Pring was a workhorse for the WV Eagles and Ryan Rose was second-team all-league. Colville has Zak Pete and Brandon Katzer back at linebacker and Dylan Arre at defensive back. Pete and Arre were All-GNL second-teamers on defense. Cheney brings back six on that side of the ball. If Riverside contends it will be because of its active linebackers, led by Dustin Payne, and DBs Tyler Bland and Derek Martin. All are two-way players.

Through the looking glass

Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. Any of five, perhaps six, teams has the experience and wherewithal to grab one of four postseason berths and chance to qualify for state. It’s tough to pick against Pullman’s depth and tradition. West Valley was the coaches’ choice to win league because of its skilled players. Cheney, Colville and Riverside have experience at most positions and Clarkston has traditionally been good. It will come down to schedule, injuries and luck to sort out the GNL this year.