By DAVID COOK
The Midland Chemics open the new high school football season Thursday when they host Traverse City West in a battle of playoff teams from last year.
Midland enjoyed a banner 2012 season as it 11-1 with its lone loss coming in the Division 2 regional final against Muskegon. Midland suffered some heavy graduation losses, including current Notre Dame offensive lineman Steve Elmer, but returns a solid nucleus of seniors who saw action last year.
Senior Jacob Dostal (6-3, 225) anchors this year’s offensive line while running back Will Williams (5-7, 170) also returns t the offense.
Senior linebacker Michael Alexander (5-11, 215) leads the way for the Midland defense.
Traverse City West turned in a 6-4 record last season. The Titans have plenty of talent returning and feature one of the biggest and most talented offensive lines in the state. Senior guard Connor Hayes (6-4, 280) is one of the premier linemen in the state and has committed to Pittsburgh of the ACC. Sophomore tackle Thiyo Lukusa (6-5, 300) is one of the top sophomores in the state and is be heavily recruited by Michigan and Michigan State. The Titan line also includes sophomore guard Tommy Roush (6-3, 270) and junior tackle Alec Coolman (6-3, 250).