This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

MILFORD TIGERS

The Hurry Up — Milford finished 5-5 in 2-15, and 1-3 in league play. The Tigers lost in the first round of the Class 1A playoffs to Duchesne 34-0.

Milford coach Thane Marshall admits his team is young, but that doesn't mean it isn't experienced. Despite featuring just four seniors, Marshall has high expectations for his team, which features many juniors as key starters on both sides of the ball. But after losing last year's starting quarterback, Jordan Hardy — who, according to Marshall, accounted for 75 percent of the offense — a lot will be riding on the development of junior Ty Netto. Netto started two years at quarterback at the junior varsity level, but will be making the switch from wide receiver this season.

"We're going to be more of a balanced team," Marshall said. "We're going to be young — we only have four seniors on this football team — but we're going to be very experienced."

Quarterbacks — According to Marshall, the starting spot is "pretty much Ty's to lose right now." And while Netto has been doing his job in summer workouts, freshman backup Bryson Barnes — who Marshall says is one of the smartest players he's seen for his age — will be the next man up if things don't go smoothly.

Running backs — Last season, the Tigers started 4-1. But after Dane Wunderlich suffered a gruesome hand injury — losing the tips of his ring, little and middle fingers — the Tigers lost four of their next five games. Now, Wunderlich is making a return as a junior and will look to be the heavy lifter as the lead back.

Receivers — As one of the lone returning seniors, Preston Robinson will be the main targets in the air. With two of last year's top receivers now gone, expect Robinson's numbers to see a heavy increase and for him to reflect just how much of a jump the rising upperclassmen have been preparing to make.

Offensive linemen — Much of Netto's success will depend on the play of senior offensive tackle Colban Henrie, who will also start as a defensive end. Henrie is entering his fourth season and has been a staple for this program for every one of them.

Defensive linemen — The defensive line will be one of the Tigers' biggest strengths in 2016. With a proven defensive tackle in Henrie, this year's line should have enough assets to replace graduated senior Colter Wright, who is a key loss up front.

Linebackers — Behind a solid defensive line, three-year starter Trae Williamson will anchor a strong corps of linebackers. With "three very good athletes" making up the rotation, Marshall is confident that this year's group will be a strong point for the team.

Defensive backs — With returning senior Robinson, there will be no lack of experience over the top. Last year's corners may not have filled up the stat sheets, but there is a lot of room for improvement with another season under their belt.

Key Players

Dane Wunderlich, RB — Don't let last year's numbers fool you, Wunderlich was a workhorse for the Tigers before he suffered the season-ending injury.

Colban Henrie, OT, DE — Entering his senior year, Henrie will be a centerpiece to the Tigers' success all season as he anchors both lines.

Ty Netto, QB — Making the transition from wide receiver to quarterback at the varsity level will be an interesting one, but as a two-year starter on the junior varsity, Netto should acclimate fairly quickly.

Key Losses

Colter Wright, C, DT — It won't be easy replacing a player who totaled a team-high 96 tackles in 2015.

Jordan Hardy, QB, CB — Led the team in total rushing yards with 1,471 and 22 touchdowns.

Braiden Pomerinke, WR, CB — Was the second-leading receiver with 244 yards and a touchdown; led the defense with two interceptions, too.

Name To Know: It's remarkable that Dane Wunderlich will return to the field after suffering such a gruesome injury to his fingers, but if he can manage to get back to where he was before being sidelined, Wunderlich will be a standout for the Tigers in 2016.

2016 Schedule

Aug. 19 — Duchesne, 7 p.m. (Lost, 41-0, in 2015)

Aug. 26 — at Wayne, 7 p.m. (Won, 61-0)

Sept. 2 — at North Sevier, 7 p.m. (Won, 46-0)

Sept. 9 — Altamont, 7 p.m. (Won, 29-20)

Sept. 16 — at Parowan, 7 p.m. (Won, 56-28)

Sept. 30 — at Kanab, 7 p.m. (Lost, 21-7)

Oct. 7 — at Layton Christian Academy, 4 p.m. (Won, 53-8)

Oct. 14 — Monticello, 7 p.m. (Lost, 27-14)

Oct. 21 — Diamond Ranch, 7 p.m. (Lost, 42-0)

Verdict: Health plagued Milford in 2015, but if it can maintain its starting core of players, it should have the foundation to make improvements in 2016.

Projected finish in region: Third