Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: THURSDAY, September 1, 1994 TAG: 9410140002
SECTION: NEW RIVER VALLEY PREP FOOTBALL PAGE: 4 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: RALPH BERRIER JR. STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: CHRISTIANSBURG LENGTH: Medium
After struggling through back-to-back three-win seasons, the Blue Demons may be one of the biggest surprises in this part of the state. Christiansburg has a strong nucleus of returning players, including swift-footed senior back Andra Beasley, and more depth than in recent years.
"For the first time since '91, we're seeing some returning people in the right places," said Christiansburg coach Mike Cole.
"We've got more than just good athletes this year. We've got good athletes with good attitudes. The effort in preseason has been outstanding.... I know I haven't had this much fun since, oh, 1989, I guess."
That was the last time Christiansburg won the New River District.
The Blue Demons are not expected to unseat Blacksburg as NRD champs, and a brutal nondistrict schedule that includes games with Northside, Richlands, Tazewell and Graham could take its toll on their overall record. Still, 1994 appears to be a year when Christiansburg can regain its winning ways and get back into the Region IV playoffs.
"There are no patsies on that schedule," said Cole. "There's not a week in there that's a sure-win. But I think we can line up against anybody on that schedule."
There are several reasons for Cole to be optimistic. One is that the offense should work better now that players have had a year to learn the Wing-T that Cole implemented last year.
Beasley, a national caliber long-jumper who rushed for 938 yards and scored 15 touchdowns last year, is back at halfback and will be flanked by junior David Epperly (568 yards, three TDs) at fullback. Mischa Alexander, last year's quarterback, has put on 30 pounds (he's 6 feet, 190) and will move to fullback. Junior Trey Stone and sophomore Chris Epperly will split time at quarterback.
Before the season is over, Beasley (5-10, 185) could be considered a Division I college sleeper. He also plays safety, although he may not play as much defense as in the past because of the team's need for his offensive abilities.
"Not a lot of people are giving him enough credit for his football ability," said Cole. "He's not just a track guy who plays football. I think we have a good football player who can do both both sports."
The offensive line is solid with veteran players such as Chad Wikle (6-0, 215) at center, Scott Patrick (5-9, 175) at strong guard, and Sam Lucas (5-11, 190) and Terry Hylton (6-0, 260) at tackles. Cole also is glad 6-1, 230-pound senior tight end Byron Gates is playing football again after a couple of years off. Gates also is a fine infielder and pitcher for the baseball team.
Beasley (13 catches, 137 yards) and Larry Carter (11 catches, 215 yards) are the top returning pass-catchers.
Cole said as many as seven different players could see action on the defensive line. The linebackers and secondary appear to be set.
Alexander and David Epperly will work as outside backers around middle man Scott Patrick. Eddie Miller, who also could prove to be a dependable running back, Chris Wolfe and Carl Lawson will see linebacking action.
If Beasley's not in the secondary, then Chris Epperly or Carter will be. Mike Scott and Scott Brubeck will handle cornerback duties.
"Based on our performances the last couple of seasons, people aren't going to be expecting very much from us," said Cole. "We're underdogs. That's OK with me."
by CNB