LEDYARD

Coach: Jim Buonocore (13 years overall, 92-47-1)

League: ECC

Last season: 11-2 (ECC Medium Division champions, Class M finalists)

Top offensive players: John Rainey, 6-0, 185, Sr., QB; Kyle Wilson, 6-2, 255, Sr., OL

Top defensive players: Cal Karpi, 5-11, 185, Sr., LB; Chevy Perry, 6-0, 215, Sr., DE

Key losses: Dallas Smith, TE/LB; Alex Manwaring, RB; Slade Baxley, WR/DB; Matt Daggett, FB/LB

Inside the huddle: Keys to the season will be strong play on the line, balance on the offensive side of the ball, rush defense and strong special teams play. Rainey returns under center, but Colonels must replace the bulk of their offense with the graduation of their top running back (Manwaring) and receiver (Baxley). Wilson is expected to be one of the top linemen in the ECC, as should senior Bobby Bozym. 

Championship Fact: Ledyard has appeared in 10 state title games and has won four titles, but none since 2007.