7-on-7: Impressions aside, o-line still concern
Posted on 13. Jul, 2009 by Brian Porter in '09 7-on-7
Detractors of the 7-on-7 passing game will say it lacks two elements: line play and the running game.
It can leave as many questions as it provides answers.
The Plano Wildcats have to replace all five interior offensive linemen in 2009. The state 7-on-7 tournament and preceding league and tournament games did nothing to solve those concerns.
But, the game designed for skill position players may have proven that Plano is ready to reload, instead of thinking about rebuilding after its all-time leading passer, receiver and rusher were lost to graduation.
The quarterback position will be settled in preseason drills and both candidates got equal opportunities this summer. Brandon Bordonaro and Connor Mickelson alternated at the position during 7-on-7. One of the highlights of the tournament was a hail mary Mickelson delivered to Holt Hoetger. Mickelson completed 13 of his first 16 passes of the state tournament. Bordonaro completed his first seven passes against New Braunfels Canyon for a pair of touchdowns to open the game and came back in that game to engineer scoring drives on his first two series of the second half.
Both quarterbacks benefited from a pair of receivers who made big impressions. Holt Hoetger and Robert Robinson each hauled in eight touchdown passes in four state tournament games. And each took over a game by scoring in multiple ways. Behind them, Plano proved to be one of the most potent 7-on-7 teams at the tournament.
Hoetger seems the likely candidate to replace Kris Lott as the team’s leading receiver. Robinson could complement Hoetger, creating a tandem reminiscent of the Kris Lott-Grant Davis pairing in 2007. Though, there has been some talk he could play running back.
The state tournament demonstrated Plano can be even more versatile at receiver. Clayton Parlin demonstrated he can play the slot receiver position and make tough catches. Brad Tipton also made an impression with four touchdowns and Steele Hoetger showed the ability to go get the ball with his six-foot frame. Plano will likely look to find a way to use Kevin Merrill, who could be a running back or receiver on offense.
The 7-on-7 game also puts players out of position and demonstrates their abilities to perform in other ways. Two who did just that were Jared Kirchmeier and Collin Brence. Both could end up playing defense this season, but both displayed the ability to make plays in the passing game. If Brence ends up playing fullback, like he did last season, his performance in 7-on-7 indicates he could be a goal line and short yardage receiving weapon. Kirchmeier is listed on the roster as a defensive back, but was utilized as a receiver in the state tournament.
