The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
Benedictine»Bengals
Just the facts
Conference: Independent
OHSAA: Division II, Region 5
Coach: Jarritt Goode, Third year (14-7) 2020: 4-5
Twitter: @BeneBengalsFB
Home field: Euclid Community Stadium
Outlook
There are plenty of new faces for the Bengals this season, as only Terrell Grier returns on offense, and Derrell Bedingfield and Michael Hatcher return on defense. With limited returners from a team that reached back-to-back regional semifinals, Benedictine will need some players to take on bigger roles. They do return running back Duane Jackson, who saw significant playing time last season, and will shoulder the load this season. However, he will be running behind an offensive line that has no varsity experience. With limited experience up front, the speed at the skill position is something that Goode is happy to have at their disposal.
Player to watch
As one of the few returning starters, Derrell Bedingfield Jr. takes up a bigger role, as he returns at his outside linebacker position and will also see some time at tight end. Last season, Bedingfield recorded 4.5 sacks to lead the Bengals, and Benedictine is hoping to see even more out of him this season as the defensive leader.
Underclassman to watch:
Anthony Iliano has stepped up to the challenge of the new starting right tackle for the Bengals. With no returning starters up front, the junior has taken over a leadership role and will be the anchor of the offensive line.
Benedictine running back Duane Jackson, shown, in 2020.
Bottom line
IF: The youth can find their rhythm on both sides of the ball, THEN: the Bengals can get back to a regional semifinal.
— Benjamin Hercik
Schedule
Aug. 20: Benedictine at Walsh Jesuit, 7
Aug. 28: Toledo Central Catholic at Benedictine, 7 Sept. 3: Benedictine at Cleveland Central Catholic, 4:30 Sept. 10: Benedictine at Bishop Hartley, 7
Sept. 17: Open
Sept. 24: Boardman at Benedictine, 7
Oct. 1: Benedictine at Brecksville-Broadview Heights, 7 Oct. 8: Erie Cathedral Prep at Benedictine, 7
Oct. 15: Benedictine at Akron Hoban, 7
Oct. 22: Benedictine at Nordonia, 7