2007 Football Preview

Published: April 13, 2021

GREENVILLE, Ill.- The 2007 Greenville College football team will return to the field this fall to build on five consecutive years of steady development and growth. In 2006, the Panthers ended the season with a record of 6-4 (5-2 IBFC) and finished tied for second in the conference standings.OFFENSE The Panther offense will continue to improve their fast-paced, multiple, and deceptive schemes.The offensive line will be the most veteran group on the offense. Anchored by seniors Aaron Mingo, Trent Dahnke, and Casey Schwartzlose, the Panther offensive line will be a major key to the Panthers' success on the field.At the quarterback position, junior Dominic Kegel, who earned first team all-conference honors in 2006, will return along with some other young talents at that position. At the wide receiver position, Josh Flannery and Peter Burgert will be the lone seniors but will bring years of experience to the position. The backfield positions will be young again but very potent.Offensive coordinator Joel Penner commented, I am anticipating a benchmark season with this group of guys. After two seasons getting acquainted with the offense, our guys know the system, believe in it, and can execute it. I believe our investment in the off-season workouts will contribute greatly to our ability to move the ball and score points in the 2007 season.DEFENSE The 2007 defensive unit will have a new look in many key positions. However, with seven potential returning starters, the defense is expected to continue to provide quality play.The defensive line has two returning starters from 2006- seniors Nathan Strange and Justin Grant. Grant was second team all-conference in 2006 and is expected to play a greater role with the graduation of Russell Reece. Look for Kenyon Klousia and Trevor Loos to also fill the void left by Reece.At the linebacker spot, Grant Jarzynka and Garrett Young return at the inside backer position. With the loss of J.R. Harriel and T.J. Gaylord, the outside linebacker position will have two huge voids to fill. There are several returnees and highly touted newcomers who will compete at this position.Mark Schopp, second team all-conference in 2005 and 2006, returns for his senior campaign. Schopp, along with returning starters Seth England and Richard Wise, are expected to lead the defensive backs this year.The defensive coaching staff also received a few new looks. Ordell Walker will continue to coordinate the defense and coach the inside linebackers. Head Coach Eric Hehman brings a ton of expertise to the outside linebackers. Kyle Schenk will make the switch from coaching the defensive line to the defensive backs. Jon Lehman, a recent graduate of Trinity International University, will be the defensive graduate assistant and defensive line coach.Defensive coordinator Ordell Walker commented, Every returning player and coach will have to improve with the loss of several key starters and coaches. However, with the great leadership provided by the seven defensive seniors and the addition of another great incoming recruiting class, I am cautiously optimistic that 2007 will be a special year.