TEAM FACTS
Coach: Tim Brennan, 16th season overall (first back at Bishop Kelly), 126-35
Last year: 12-0 overall, 7-0 4A SIC
Postseason: Defeated Pocatello 27-17 in state quarterfinals; defeated Shelley 28-7 in state semifinals; defeated Blackfoot 41-28 in finals
Stadium: Nick Ysursa Field, Boise
Playoff powerhouse: Over the last 10 seasons, Bishop Kelly only missed the state playoffs once — three seasons ago in 2008. During that run, the Knights have captured three state championships (2010, 2005 and 2004).
SCOUTING REPORT
OFFENSE
New playmakers will emerge as the Knights’ offense begins with a fresh slate of players. Neal Murphy (OL) is the only returning member of a balanced attack that averaged more than 34 points and 404.3 yards per game last season.
DEFENSE
JoJo Harrington is the only letterman returning from a defense that allowed 10.5 points per game in 2010. Last year, opponents only managed 85.2 rushing yards per game, and against a 4-4 defense, teams will need to beat them through the air this season. Although the names change, the Knights have a reputation for shutting down opposing offenses, so don’t expect anything different.
OVERVIEW
With a new (but familiar) coach and plenty of turnover from last year’s state championship team, the 2011 Knights get a fresh start to create their own identity while keeping the expectations high. Coach Tim Brennan believes gaining experience early in the season is crucial to this year’s success, and playing three of the first four games at home should help.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
JoJo Harrington
LB/RB
The Knights will rely heavily on Harrington for leadership this season. At 5-foot-10, 170 pounds, the senior outside linebacker can impart much of what he learned last season to younger players and make those around him better. “He has a lot of experience,” coach Tim Brennan said.
Neal Murphy
OL/DL
At 6-1, 200 pounds, Murphy earned a spot in the starting lineup during the 2010 season. Like Harrington, the junior will be asked to lead emotionally and by example during the 2011 season. “He has experience where no one else does,” Brennan said. “He is a very athletic player.”
Austin Seidler
OL/DL
Seidler takes over at center and at defensive tackle for the Knights. The 5-10, 200-pounder didn’t play much as a junior, but has impressed coaches with his knowledge of the game. “He is a very intelligent player who will make the calls on the offensive line,” Brennan said.
Joshua Poole
FB/LB
The 6-0, 175-pound junior has the potential to be a solid player and excites coaches with the way he attacks his assignments. “At fullback, he’s a physical player who finishes blocks well,” Brennan said. “He’s going to be a very good football player down the road.”
