Kirtland>>Hornets

Just the facts

School: Kirtland

Conference: CVC Valley

OHSAA: Division V, Region 17

Coach: Tiger LaVerde, 16th year (185-17) 2020: 11-0

Twitter: @kirtlandsports

Home field: Rogers Field

Outlook

The Hornets roll into this season after winning their past 41games, including three straight state titles. But this is the most inexperienced team Coach Tiger LaVerde has had in some time, with only three returning starters on each side of the ball. The running game will again be the team’s anchor. The experience of linemen Jonathan Withrow and George Prusock will be key for the team. Kirtland will run the ball well — it always does. But the big-play capability of Gage Sullivan in the passing game looms large. Defensively, no one in the lineup tops 200pounds. But it’s a fast and physical group, led by All-Ohio linebackers Mason Rus and Joseph Coleman.

Player to watch

A pair of two-way starters will be worth the price of admission this year. Gage

Sullivan at receiver/defensive back and Mason Rus at running back and linebacker.

They’re outstanding leaders and highly productive on both sides of the ball.

Underclassman to watch: George Prusock — or GP3 as he’s known — was an AllOhio lineman last year. He’s a big, physical lineman who dominates every play.

Bottom line

IF: The Hornets stay healthy amid a tough regular-season schedule; THEN: Does anyone want to bet against them winning their fourth state title in a row?

— John Kampf

George Prusock (73) of Kirtland blocks during the Hornets’ state title win over Ironton last year.

Schedule

Aug. 20: Harvey at Kirtland, 7

Aug. 27: Kirtland at Lutheran West, 7

Sept. 3: Kirtland at Westinghouse Academy, Pa., 7 Sept. 10: West Geauga at Kirtland, 7

Sept. 17: Kirtland at Geneva, 7

Sept. 24: Chagrin Falls at Kirtland, 7 (HC)

Oct. 1: Kirtland at Perry, 7

Oct. 8: Lakeside at Kirtland, 7

Oct. 15: Edgewood at Kirtland, 7

Oct. 22: Kirtland at Orange, 7

NEWS-HERALD FILE

Sullivan