North>>Rangers

Just the facts

School: North

Conference: WRC

OHSAA: Division II, Region 5

Coach: Shawn Dodd, seventh year (21-37) 2020: 3-4

Twitter: @northrangers

Home field: Nick Carter Stadium

Outlook

The Rangers are changing things up with a different offensive scheme that will spread things out a little more and get playmakers in space behind a big offensive line. The skill is exceptional, with Reon-tae Lowery, Mo Morgan, Curtis Thomas and Dom Marciante all back at RB and receiver. The line is anchored by Pitt commit Ryan Baer (6-8, 330). There are a lot of two-way players, so depth is a little concern. But this team has better speed than some past teams, and also has a tremendous work ethic. They should be a factor in the WRC race this year.

Player to watch

You can’t help but to watch and notice 6-8, 330-pound Ryan Baer. The massive lineman is one of the best in Ohio, if not the nation. He’ll start on both the offensive and defensive lines this year and command attention. Underclassman to watch: There are a few very good options here. Reon’tae Lowery (a sophomore) and Curtis Thomas (a junior) can both fly. If they get in the open field, look out.

Bottom line

IF: the Rangers can get accustomed to the new offense quickly; THEN: they are going to scare teams with their speed and athleticism.

— John Kampf

Curtis Thomas is back at North this year as a primary playmaker.

Schedule

Aug. 20: Garfield Heights at North, 7 Aug. 27: North at Richfield Revere, 7 Sept. 3: North at Lake Catholic, 7 Sept. 10: Kenston at North, 7

Sept. 17: North at South, 7

Sept. 24: Madison at North, 7

Oct. 1: Riverside at North, 7

Oct. 8: North at Mayfield, 7

Oct. 15: Brush at North, 7 (HC)

Oct. 22: North at Chardon

Projected lineup

NEWS-HERALD FILE

Thomas

Baer