Auburn preview | Prep football

After the Trojans missed the postseason for the first time in eight years in 2011, nobody was expecting much from them last year. Auburn, however, surprised everyone, winning seven league games and fighting through the initial rounds of the postseason to reach the semifinals. Can the Trojans dig deep and do it again this year? The Trojans have to replace the all-around play of Harold Lee and the defensive presence of Kevin Shelton, both lost to graduation. Look for Atkinson, the team's lone returning offensive starter, to set the ton

By Shawn Skager • August 28, 2013 5:37 pm
Auburn senior quarterback Brier Atkinson brings a year of varsity experience to this year's squad.
Auburn senior quarterback Brier Atkinson brings a year of varsity experience to this year's squad.

AUBURN TROJANS

Coach: Gordon Elliott, 12th year

Last year: Second in the South Puget Sound League North 4A with 7-1 record, 10-3 overall. Lost to Bellarmine Prep in state 4A semifinals, 21-19

Type of offense: Multiple jet

Top returner: Brier Atkinson, senior, QB, 6-foot-1, 180 pounds.

Type of defense: 3-3

Top returners: Daniel Frunchak, senior, DL, 6-2/225; and Jaykob Sloan, senior, DB, 5-8/155.

Impact newcomers: Dom Eckland, senior, TE/FS, 6-3/185; William Jefferies, senior, FB/DB, 5-8/180; Kieo Buchanan, senior, HB/DB; 5-8/170; and Marshall McGlory, senior, TE/DE, 6-1/190.

Outlook: After the Trojans missed the postseason for the first time in eight years in 2011, nobody was expecting much from them last year. Auburn, however, surprised everyone, winning seven league games and fighting through the initial rounds of the postseason to reach the semifinals. Can the Trojans dig deep and do it again this year? The Trojans have to replace the all-around play of Harold Lee and the defensive presence of Kevin Shelton, both lost to graduation. Look for Atkinson, the team’s lone returning offensive starter, to set the tone.

Key games: Kentwood has had Auburn’s number for the past three years, including last season’s 31-7 victory in the Trojans’ home opener. This year Auburn looks to set the tone for the season when the teams tangle again in a SPSL North 4A opener at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6 at French Field in Kent. On Oct. 11 the Trojans will get a taste of primetime when they play Kentlake in a 7 p.m. Root Sports televised game.