The Griffins have had one of the most successful programs of the decade, having won the 2005 National Title and a slew of playoff appearances. "We will have a young team this year, but we had a good recruiting year and we did a very good job of getting players. I have also never felt so comfortable with a Coaching staff." Jordan brings in former NFL QB Akili Smith to work with the QBs, Jim Colbert is back as the RB coach, Dan Clauss as LB coach, and Jordan's legendary dad and former longtime Grossmont head coach Dave, is back as the D coordinator.
The Griffins will be led on offense by returning QB John Solis, who was the 2006 starter that led the team to a 10-2 record. Dan Lewis, who has playing experience from last season will back him up. Juan Balanos will lead the Offensive Line. Wide outs Chris Smith, Donavon Darrington and Miles McPherson will be his main targets. All three players are veterans and although they didn’t light it up last season, having Soli throw to them should double their output. Tila Case and Xavier Martin should see action too. At RB, the Griffs will be led by Garren Demery and Michael Yamauchi, who both averaged over 8 yards per carry last season. Jamar Reed will give them an experienced stable of runners. Kyle Hipp will hold down the Tight End position. His average last season of over 18 yards per reception was outstanding for the position.
On the Defensive side of the ball, DBs Aberham Mulhize and Luis Villavicencio (4 ints) will lead the way, and they should get solid play from Freshman Larry Parker. The LBs will feature Calvin Pearce (19 tackles, 2 sacks) and a familiar name in Grossmont football, Homer Mauga, who is another Helix High Product and undoubtedly related to former Griffin stars Dallas (Sac State), and Magnum Mauga, (Utah State). The D Line will be an all freshman affair with Jarrod Watson and Yun Ta’la carrying the load.
Certainly Grossmont will have a much tougher schedule than in the past, but their teams have traditionally been able to play with anyone, regardless of conference power. No matter what their record is this season, you can be sure they will be much improved and a threat to the conference title. It may take them a while to find themselves with such a young team, but the Griffins are well coached and have the athletes to contend.