by Stephen M. Lewis
DigitalSports Richmond
slewis@sbgnet.com
(804) 240-2191
A recent James River practice had that spirit that breeds competitiveness.
That’s what coach Greg DeFrancesco is looking for as his Rapids battle each other for positions.
Even entrenched starters are going after each other as James River is eager to post a season more like its 7-3 mark in 2007 than its 3-7 reversal a year ago.
“Practice is intense,” safety Jesse Wells said. “We’re doing everything we can to work the offense. They try to get to the outside but that’s not going to happen.
“They’ve got some speed but we’ve got some quickness on the outside and we’re just not going to let that happen.”
The Rapids defense is looking strong, led by Wells, defensive tackle Ryan Powis and sophomore inside linebacker Conlan Cassidy, already 6-2, 230 pounds.
James River’s offense scored on its first possession in an intrasquad scrimmage, but the defense shut them down the rest of practice.
“The second time we went back on the field we got excited,” Cassidy said. “We brought more intensity to the game and we played a lot better.”
The offense is led by Josh Wells, Jesse’s twin brother. They are both seniors coming off of second-team all-district efforts.
Wells has a powerful backfield mate in Ke’Von White, who is difficult to tackle.
His receivers have size and are plentiful when DeFrancesco goes to his spread attack, which will look to Powis (’08 all-district pick) and his linemates to open holes and give time.
“The defense is crazy,” White said.
We’ll find out how crazy soon. For James River’s sake, let’s hope it is insane.
ALL ABOUT JAMES RIVER
Key players: Josh Wells, Sr., QB; Jesse Wells, S, Sr.; Ryan Powis, OT/DT, 6-1, 260, Sr.; Ke’Von White, RB, 5-8, 175, Jr.; Conlan Cassidy, MLB, So., 6-2, 230
Key losses: Austin Hersh, LB (Hargrave Military); Cole Ransom, RB/WR
Big game: at Midlothian, Sept. 18.
Outlook: How quickly can James River’s offense catch up to the defense?
CAN’T-MISS VIDEO
Stephen Lewis’ take on the Rapids
RB Ke’Von White interview
Twins Jesse and Josh Wells interview
OL/DL Ryan Powis interview
MLB Conlan Cassidy interview
MUST-SEE LINKS
2009 Schedule
2008 Results
Back to 2009 Football Camp Tour
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