After missing the playoffs for the first time in three years last fall, the Alma Panthers begin the 2013 season with what can be a tricky opener at Ionia.
Alma turned in a 5-4 record last season but has a number of key positions to fill starting off with the quarterback spot where a replacement for Vinny Costanzo must be found.
The Panthers do have the makings for a solid ground game. Senior running back Austin Coleman returns after a solid junior campaign. Coleman wrapped up last season by running for 125 yards and two touchdowns against Ovid-Elsie.
Coleman will have some solid blocking in front of him led by senior offensive tackle Curtis Doyle. One of the premier offensive linemen in the state, Doyle has committed to play college football at Western Michigan University next season.
Ionia enters the game with an improving offense. The Bulldogs, under third-year coach Mike Holes, a former Ithaca assistant coach, turned in a 3-6 record last season that included a 48-28 loss to Alma in the season opener.
Ionia has the making of a potent passing game with the return of honorable-mention, all-conference quarterback Austin Gregory. The Bulldogs also boast an all-conference running back in junior Kyle Parks.