By BUTCH HARMON
Portland has had one of the most consistent football programs in mid Michigan for the past 10 years. This year, however, the Raiders have their work cut out for them, as they have graduated a number of key players off a team that turned in a 7-2 record last fall.
Portland’s only losses last year came against DeWitt, the Division 3 state finalist, in the final game of the regular season, and against Grand Rapids West Catholic, the Division 5 state champion, in the opening round of the playoffs.
Portland graduated a number of key players, but replacing talented football players is nothing new for the Raider program. It has posted winning records and has made the playoffs every year since 2003. It has a number of strong players around whom to build this year. Key among the returnees is quarterback Clay Morris (6’2″, 180 pounds). Morris is a strong-armed passer who earned all-county honors last season.
Morris is not the only all-county player returning, as junior lineman Mark Brooks (6’7″, 255) is back. Brooks is a punishing blocker at tackle and is also an impact player at defensive end.
Other promising seniors also return, including running back/linebacker Sam Goodman (6’2″, 215), wide receiver/defensive end Tyler McHenry, offensive tackle/defensive tackle Nathan Meekhof, and offensive tackle/linebacker Spencer Meekhof. Junior Noah Hengesbach will also be a key contributor at guard and linebacker.