PrepNation 101 Preseason FB Countdown: No. 63 Hamilton

63. Hamilton (Chandler, Ariz.)

Last season’s record: 12-1, lost in 5A/I semifinals

Coach: Steve Belles

Key players: LB Anthony Jones (6-1, 220, Sr.), WR Andrew Terrell (5-11, 180, Sr.), DT Michael Sylvestre (6-1, 245, Sr.), DB Ryan Milus (5-10, 160, Sr.), LB Rueben Robinson (6-1, 215, Sr.), LB Justin Rosales (5-8, 185, Sr.), DB Devon Carrington (6-2, 180, Jr.), QB Zak Hambach (6-2, 190, Sr.), RB Dante Alexander (5-10, 205, Sr.)

Biggest strength: Experience on defense

Question mark: Inexperience on offensive line

Outlook: The Huskies begin the season playing arguably their three most difficult games. After a trip to Miami to battle defending Florida 4A champion Booker T. Washington, the Huskies will face defending Arizona 5A/I champ Brophy followed by a trip to in-state 4A power Centennial. It will be a tough test for an inexperienced offense with only three starters, but should further galvanize a strong defense that has eight veterans returning. Jones is a tremendous athlete with a 42-inch vertical jump. He had 94 tackles and six sacks as a junior. Robinson, an Oregon State recruit, added 92 tackles, three sacks and three interceptions. The secondary is strong with the highly athletic Carrington patrolling at free safety. On offense, Terrell led the team in receiving last year with 786 yards and also 611 yards on kick returns. Hambach and Alexander will be first-year starters in the backfield.

Toughest games: Aug. 29 at Booker T. Washington (Miami), Sept. 5 vs. No. 74 Brophy Prep, Sept. 12 at Centennial, Sept. 26 at Red Mountain, Nov. 7 at Chandler