2007 TFL Preview: Team D

Last in a Four Part Series

This team is by far the most mixed when it comes to abilities and traits. They've got tall people, short people, fast people, slow people, old people, and young people. The bottom line is that they have people, and that's exactly why they're going to surprise other people this year. Team D really has the potential to be the most complete team in the league--something the other three would kill for.

Making a return to quarterback this year is sophomore Chris Preston. He caught everyone off guard last year when he burst onto the scene throwing for distance and accuracy at the same time. He's the perfect guy to lead a receiving corps that truly is a mixed bag. They are loaded with a bunch more talented sophomores as Allissa Carter, Brendan Frank, and Katrina Willitz are all coming back for their second year. All three of them are quick off the line, and none are faster than the speed demon Carter.

This team is also loaded with rookies. Mary Blazier, Russ Chinn, and Anthony "Ninja" Gorczyca are all making their TFL debuts this year. They'll be learning from a complete set of veterans including Aaron D'Souza and F-- You Andy Gradl. There's no doubt that this team has the best mix of ages, but it could be a liability in the early going as they try to figure out their respective roles. As soon as the rookies become acclimated to the TFL style of play, Team D shouldn't have too much trouble getting off the ground.

The bottom line for them is simple: Preston must be accurate like last year, and the defense must be solid in the early part of the game. We saw Preston lead comebacks last season, but this team cannot afford to get into a hole during every game. Fast starts will be key for their success.

Quick Hits

The One Word or Phrase to Describe this Team: Eclectic
Greatest Strength: Speedy wide receivers all across the board.
Biggest Weakness: Many rookies who still need to learn.
They'll Win Games if: Preston can deliver the ball and the defense can keep them in it.
They'll Lose Games if: The focus goes south in the early stages of the game. They can overcome it, but it won't be easy if they get in too big of a hole.
Number of Trumpettes: 3 (Mary Blazier, Allissa Carter, Katrina Willitz)
Number of Rookies: 3 (Blazier, Russ Chinn, Anthony Gorczyca)

Preview written exclusively for TFL Illustrated by Matt Albert.