Coach: Gardner Howard, fourth year
Last season: 4-6, 3-2 CL
Returning letter winners: 7
Returning starters: Offense 4, defense 3
Schemes: Spread/4-3
Top players: Seniors Johnny Douanglee, 6-0, 160, QB-DB; Cyrron Burninger, 5-10, 180, RB-DB; Will Jensen, 6-2, 275, OL-DL; Matt Yates, 6-3, 255, OL-DL; Austin Morris, 6-0, 175, WR-LB. Junior Derrick Chandler, 5-6, 150, RB-DB. Sophomore Jovan Sanson, 6-2, 225, OL-DL.
Outlook: The Indians finished in a three-way tie for second place with Bowsher and Start last season. They'd like nothing more than to ride the momentum from last season right to the top of the City League this season.
With only seven starters back, they're counting on several underclassmen to step up and provide a lift.
Douanglee returns as the team leader after topping the league in passing last season. He threw for 1,270 yards and nine touchdowns by completing 109 of 196 pass attempts. He also rushed for 408 yards, including two TDs. Finding a supporting cast to complement him on offense remains a concern for a team that includes only 12 seniors.
With only three starters back on defense, Howard is faced with finding some defensive playmakers.
"I am looking forward to enjoying this journey with a great group of guys," said Howard. "Our motto is team, family, hard work."
2012 WAITE SCHEDULE
Aug. 24-Maumee
Aug. 31-at Northview
Sept. 7-Clay
Sept 21-Bellevue
Sept. 28-Rogers
Oct. 4-at Start
Oct. 12-at Bowsher
Oct. 19-Scott
Oct. 26-Woodward