''Every year this program has a group of seniors who have stepped up to lead,'' Tillman said. ``This year will be no exception.''

The junior class also represents positive change with quarterbacks Jeremiah Hay (5-9, 170) and Hialeah transfer Bidler Dorlean (6-1, 200) leading the way along with running back Tony Gallon (5-8, 155) and linemen Johnny Alfred (6-0, 215) and Deyler Escobar (5-10, 293).

DEFENSE NEEDED

On a program loaded with offensive weapons, the defense will once again be key. A quality secondary led by Jonas Clark (6-2, 162), Scottie McClary (5-6, 145) and Denard Turner (5-10, 140) will be strong. Linebacker Michael Ross (5-10, 182) continues to improve, and with a strong line that features Elkino Watson (6-2, 270), Kevin Jaques (5-10, 180) and Derrick Pinckney (6-2, 180), depth might not be a factor late in the season.

''Our offensive line needs to be deeper,'' Tillman says with a smile. ``But that's probably the case every year.''

With sophomores Josier Residor (6-1, 250) and Jovon Wooten (6-1, 245), there is plenty to be excited about. Even linebacker Kevon Caffey (5-10, 190) and impressive defensive back Amos Leggett (5-9, 160) are worth keeping an eye on.

The fall schedule will be extremely challenging with district games against rivals Edison and Jackson being overshadowed by titanic matchups with 6A Killian, Carol City, Coral Gables, North Miami, North Miami Beach, and powers Northwestern and Central.

''I told these players the worst thing to do is to listen to what's said outside the program,'' Tillman said. ``Nobody knows what we go through every day except for these family members who have fought and worked extremely hard to be considered one of the best in this state -- for a long, long time!''

PROPS FOR THE LOCAL TEAMS

Of the teams in the final four, three were from Miami-Dade and Broward. In addition to Boyd Anderson (Mark James) and Booker T. Washington, Miramar (Damon Cogdell) also showcased an impressive team that beat Glades Central in the Elite 8. The Raiders are coached by former Oakland Raider Jessie Hester.

Ely (Lawal McCray) was also impressive, posting a 4-1 record, losing to Boyd Anderson. Gulliver Prep (Earl Sims) represented despite being without rising junior Tacoi Sumler.

Heath Evans, who now plays for the New Orleans Saints, ran a first-class event that was well planned and included NFL standouts Wes Welker, Randy Moss, Kevin Faulk and Matt Cassel, who all had the chance to participate.

Former University of Miami quarterback Steve Walsh brought his West Palm Beach Cardinal Newman team to the event.

The Daytona Beach Mainland had a South Florida tie as well with head coach John Maronto, a former Miramar coach, putting together quite a program.

LOOKING FOR TALENT

Don't forget that we are always looking to help expose our area recruits for the current class of 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013. All you have to do is send a DVD and information about the athlete to: Larry Blustein, P.O. Box 3181, Hallandale Beach, Fl. 33009.

Larry Blustein is co-host of the Miami Dolphins Gridiron Show every Thursday evening from 7-8 on WQAM (560 AM). Have a comment? E-mail lblustein@MiamiHerald.com.

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