Expectations soaring for Eagles Talented, deep Husson squad looks to build on successful ’06 season

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BANGOR – Husson College has reached the point in the development of its football program where winning consistently is an expectation rather than a hope.

After going 6-4 last fall, the Eagles look to parlay their extensive experience and talent into more success in 2007.

Coach Gabby Price and his staff are working with a whopping 112 players, a group that includes numerous upperclassmen who have been instrumental in the program’s growth.

“The players on the team this year, they want to raise the bar,” Price said. “I think they know what it takes to be successful.”

One key is replacing graduated quarterback David Chase. That crucial position will be filled by senior Jonah Chappell of Fryeburg.

“Jonah’s very athletic, throws the ball well,” said Price, who announced the decision Tuesday afternoon. “He has good leadership skills. He’s done everything we’ve asked of him. The team’s excited about him and we know he’s going to have a successful year.”

Chappell had been competing for the spot with classmate Jeremy Shorey of Lisbon, who will move back to wide receiver, where he made a team-leading 33 catches for 423 yards and four touchdowns.

“Jeremy, unquestionably, is one of our best football players,” Price said. “Last year he was our leading receiver and can play multiple positions.”

Price said the success of the QB will be evaluated not on statistics, but results.

“You don’t always have to be artistically the very best, but you’ve got to give us a chance to win the football game.”

Husson again looks to Bryan Ferguson to set the tone for the run game. The sophomore rushed for 978 yards last fall and caught 17 passes for 206 yards.

“Runs the ball well, catches the ball well and really is an outstanding blocker,” Price said.

Ferguson will be backed up by Julius Williams and freshman Justin Lindie of Winslow, while the fullback spot will be manned by Shawn McCurdy of Westbrook and Nehemiah Barnett.

The foundation of the offense is the offensive line, which includes nine lettermen and seven players who have started. Tackle Lou Avent and guard Dave Brown both are back after missing last season. They join guard Jason Cross of Hampden, center Matt Benson and tackle Jon Benson, both of Biddeford.

Tyler Hunnewell of Arundel, Sean Munroe, Mike Austin of Turner, Ryan Esmail and Bangor’s Rob Seccareccia also are in the fold.

P.J. Dowe of Bangor and Nate Paradis of Biddeford head a solid corps of tight ends.

The Eagles feature more talent and depth at wide receiver, led by Shorey and Andre Wildman (30 rec., 332 yds.). Kyle Poissonier of Smithfield transferred back from Albany, while freshman Victor McKenzie has impressed. Nate Grade of Rockland (7 rec., 60 yds.) also returns.

Price said Husson must be more productive on offense this season, particularly on first down.

“We’ve got to be a little more diverse in that situation,” Price said. “We need to play better. We’re confident that’s going to happen.”

Defense was the cornerstone of success last season for the Eagles, who must replace four starters. Husson ranked fifth nationally in pass efficiency defense (81.7) and allowed only 17.5 points and 268 yards per game.

Setting the tone are senior linebacker Ross Salovitch, who had a team-best 84 tackles in 2006, and cornerback Ramael Barton (52 tackles).

Salovitch is complemented in the middle by Cory Smith (8 sacks), along with Albany transfer Bobby Gilbert of Beaver Cove. Depth comes from Nick Parent of Kennebunkport, Ben Caldwell of Brewer, and frosh Tom Hazelhurst.

Anchoring the defensive front are seniors Joe Melcher of Portland and Shane Rogers. They’ll flank tackles Brandon Harris and Dominic Torch. Som Ratsakongsy of Hampden, Dave Duran, Pat Ouellette of Biddeford, West Gagne and Jon Spencer also will contribute.

“We think the front seven’s as good as we’ve had,” Price said.

The secondary is headed by Barton and converted tailback Darius Charlton at strong safety. Doug Blades started as a freshman at cornerback, while Keith Runne steps in at free safety.

Pat Tweedie of Brownfield, Mike Corbo, Darius Bryant and Marcus Dixon also will be in the mix.

Darren Gauthier of Durham returns as the place-kicker, although converted soccer standout Oscar Ody could challenge. Lindie and Dan Nehring have dueled for the punting job.

Husson opens Friday at 7 p.m. against Division II Pace.

College football

HUSSON SCHEDULE

AUGUST

31 – Pace University, 7 p.m.

SEPTEMBER

8 – at Utica College, 1:30 p.m.

15 – Norwich University, 1 p.m.

22 – at Hartwick College, 1 p.m.

29 – Mount Ida, 1 p.m.

OCTOBER

6 – Springfield College, 1 p.m.

13 – Maritime College-SUNY, 1 p.m.

20 – at Alfred University, 1 p.m.

NOVEMBER

3 – Becker College, 1 p.m.