Colonels Reloading

By Tommy Keeler Jr. and Jeremy Stafford -- This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

James Wood lost quite a few solid players on defense, including Kelsey Shannon, Jared Broughear and Jordan Dallmann. James Wood coach Mike Bolin said that, despite the losses, he expects the defense to be strong again this season.

Bolin said junior linebacker Joel McGreevy and junior defensive back Tripp Lewis have been impressive so far. Junior offensive lineman/defensive lineman Justin LaMaster may also make a big impact this season for the Colonels.

"We lost six starters on defense," Bolin said. "We lost some really good players, but I think we have some good players stepping in behind them."  The Colonels don't have as many worries on the offensive side of the ball, where they return six starters. Senior quarterback Trae Tinsman is back, along with senior running back Brock Lockhart. James Wood lost kicker/punter Andrew Lloyd, who will greyshirt at Virginia Tech, to graduation, but another Lloyd may take his place. His younger brother, Zach Lloyd, is competing for the kicking and punting duties and will also see playing time at wide receiver.

Senior wide receiver Harlan Robinson and senior running back Brandon Shiley (210 yards rushing last year) are also expected to be key contributors on offense this season.