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For one thing, it's pretty much guaranteed that Warriors fans -who were treated to the program's first two victories last season after three winless campaigns -can expect to see running back A.J. Freeman lined up behind quarterback John Ricketts.

Although second-year head coach Don Crossley isn't releasing a starting lineup prior to the first game, it's evident Ricketts has the quarterback spot sewn up after starting as a sophomore a year ago. Ricketts further solidified his position as the team's number one signal caller by attending a quarterback camp in Indianapolis this summer.

Crossley won't confirm any starting positions as the team goes through its final week of preparation, but judging from what the Warriors showed at the four-team scrimmage in Baldwin last week, Freeman and Ricketts appear to have earned the nod.

"I was pretty happy with the way we looked (in the scrimmage)," Crossley said. "Conditioning is still a factor, due to the fact we only have 14 varsity players."

Depth will be the Warriors' biggest concern heading into the regular season, but the players' spirits are high after going 2-7 a year ago. Finally cracking the win column lifted a huge burden off their shoulders, and the enthusiasm created from a season-ending victory has seemingly carried over to this year.

The offense proved it can score, especially if Freeman can break it to the outside and race down the sideline.

But, Crossley was more concerned with the defense's performance in the scrimmage. The Warriors went against Baldwin, Hesperia and Mesick.

"I was pleased with the way the kids responded to some of the defensive changes we've made," Crossley said.

Crossley expects Inland Lakes to test Forest Area's suspect defensive secondary with what has lately been a potent passing attack.

Inland Lakes will also try to throw the Warriors' defense off by mixing it up on offense, running counter plays to get the ball around the ends. Forest Area's defense gave up just as many passing touchdowns as rushing scores last year, and the coaching staff has been focusing on defense since practice started.

"We've moved some players around a little bit, to better suit their talents within our defense," Crossley said. "Only having two seniors, there are still some growing pains going on."

The Warriors have installed a new passing offense this year, and Ricketts showed vast improvement in his decision-making when throwing the ball in the scrimmage.

Justin Gordon and Freeman give the Warriors a pair of dangerous runners, but Crossley is partial to using his fullback running inside in the Wing-T offense.

"We spread it (rushing) around pretty evenly," Crossley said. "Last year, all the kids were within 100 yards of each other on their final team totals."

Inland Lakes has speed on defense, and prides itself on team tackling. Crossley looks for a good game Friday.