Banking big-time on the big boys
Easton shows its strength with veterans up front while developing QB, WRs
When Easton announced its 2019 football captains this week, three of the four spots went to offensive linemen.
That came as no surprise to coach Jeff Braido.
Offensive line ranks as the Red Rovers’ strongest position as they work through their first week of preseason practice. They return four starters in Patrick Shupp, Derek Frinzi, Josh Arias and RJ Gisler.
Shupp, Arias and Gisler are seniors who were picked as captains along with junior running back-linebacker Nahjee Adams. Braido is banking on his big boys while Easton develops younger players at quarterback and wide receiver.
“That leadership and the experience that those guys have is going to be great for our younger kids,” Braido said while taking a break from Wednesday’s morning practice. “We’ve got some pretty talented sophomores and juniors. That offensive line is going to help with just how much those guys have played in the past.”
The biggest and best of Easton’s returning offensive linemen will again play left tackle. The 6-foot-3, 315-pound Shupp committed to Delaware this summer. Frinzi or senior Joey Heckel should line up next to Shupp at left guard.
Arias at right tackle and Gisler at right guard give the Red Rovers added strength. Center remains the one question mark after the graduation of standout two-way lineman Albert Gayle. Senior Gio Raso is in the lead to start at center, with Heckel also in the mix.
“We’re looking great,” Shupp said. “All the guys that are coming back and the guys that are stepping up and filling in, we’re doing great at practice. We’re all clicking. Everything is moving in one solid motion.”
Easton’s offensive line will be vital in the season’s early weeks. The Red Rovers graduated quarterback Nate Nimeh, who threw for 1,944 yards and 22 touchdowns with just six interceptions.
Three players — sophomore Peyton Cosover, sophomore Cole Transue and junior Darius Snyder — are vying to start at QB. Braido would like someone to emerge from preseason camp but wouldn’t rule out using multiple quarterbacks for a few games into the regular season. Easton scrimmages Coatesville next week before opening the season against Pocono Mountain West and Whitehall.
Easton’s offense will also feature new wide receivers after the departures of Mike Dunlap and Damion Smith. Adams is Easton’s top returning receiver after snagging 26 passes for 320 yards and three touchdowns as a sophomore.
With Shupp and company in place, the Red Rovers are confident the offense will function at a high level when the toughest games arrive.
“We know that they can compete,” Shupp said. “We know they know what they’re doing, and they want to compete and earn that spot. They’re itching to get out there and show what they have and prove what they can do.”