DEXTER – Over the years, Dexter has usually managed to have one of the top rushing attacks in the LTC.

The running game will again be key for the Tigers this season, according to coach Haggie Pratt.

“Traditionally, we’ve had [a running back] in the top five in yardage,” Pratt said. “We’re going to have to run the football this year.”

Pratt has a few choices at running back, with Ben Spizzuco, senior Billy Greene, senior Sherman Keith and sophomore Dante Keith among the options. Junior Steve Robinson will start at quarterback and Spizzuco could see time at wide receiver.

Leading the offensive line are seniors Matt Hubbell (guard), Casey Macomber (center) and Chris Fornier (tackle).

Anchoring the defense are Hubbell and Fornier at linebacker and Macomber and Steve Robinson at defensive end. Greene can play both linebacker and defensive end. Junior Josh Cousins and Spizzuco key the Tiger secondary.

Senior Corey Willey will also figure into Dexter’s starting plans on both sides of the football, including tight end on offense and safety or end on defense, Pratt said.

While the Tigers have about 35 players on the varsity roster this season, avoiding injury will be a must, according to Pratt.

“We have to stay healthy,” he said. “We’re not that deep.”

Dexter’s junior varsity ranks this year have been bolstered by the appearance of five to six players from nearby Piscataquis of Guilford, the coach added.

“That will help the JV program,” he said.

Some of the Tigers also benefited from a preseason camp. About a dozen Dexter players traveled to nearby Nokomis Regional High School in Newport in late July, Pratt said. The enthusiasm by those who attended the camp has carried over into preseason, he added.

DEXTER TIGERS

2004 record: 3-6 in LTC C

Head coach: Haggie Pratt, 12th season

Key players: Steve Robinson, QB-DE, Jr.; Billy Greene, RB-DE-LB, Sr.; Matt Hubbell, OG-LB, Sr.; Chris Fornier, OT-LB, Sr.; Casey Macomber, C-DE, Sr.; Sherman Keith, Sr., RB; Dante Keith, RB, So.; Josh Cousins, DB, Jr.. Corey Willey, TE-S-DE, Sr.

Outlook: The Tigers will need to improve each and every day to have a chance at success this season, according to Pratt. “We’ve got to be focused every single day,” he said. Dexter would like to be able to run the football and be able to pass when they want to.