By Greg Gulas

sports@vindy.com

EAST LIVERPOOL

Josh Ludwig was the offensive coordinator for East Liverpool each of the last two seasons and the Potters put up improved numbers each year.

Ludwig has moved up, having taken the reins from Rick Prescott. Continued progress the immediate goal and lengthy tournament runs the eventual goals for his alma mater, which last made the playoffs in 2010.

“Offensively, we’ll spread the base with a variable offense, hoping to throw the ball downfield while running some two-back sets and even using the power-I,” he said. “Defensively, we’re a 4-4 team with a veteran safety, strong up the middle and like to swarm to the ball.”

Last year the Potters dropped five of their first six contests, mustering just 63 total points in those games while yielding 157 to opponents.

The last four games were a complete flip-flop of their start as they rallied to win all four by a 131-56 count.

Leadership from every class will be the key in Ludwig’s first season at the helm.

OFFENSE

Senior leaders include Kade Reynolds, a four-year varsity starter, and two-way performer Jason Kutzner.

Reynolds was a three-year starter at quarterback and is an excellent runner who will play multiple positions this year.

Sophomore Austin Mayfield will take over the signal-calling duties and according to Ludwig can be a special player.

Kutzner, a receive, tight end Austyn Dozier and running back/slot receiver Dillon Reynolds should be good targets.

Converted fullback Ryan Lilly is a mainstay on the line.

DEFENSE

Dozier and Dillon Reynolds double as linebackers and Kutzner will add depth. Kade Reynolds holds down the secondary from his familiar safety position with hard-hitting cornerbacks Raeqwon Eliam and Ryan Bombich also set to defend opposing passes.

Lilly is an anchor on the line.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Mayfield will handle the punting duties and Lilly the kicking chores. Kade Reynolds is one of the area’s top kick returners and Eliam is a threat to go all the way each time as a punt returner.

OUTLOOK

Building off their four consecutive wins to end last season will be a key. Maintaining the tenacity the Potters have generated in the offseason could determine how they start and finish the year.

The components are in place for Ludwig’s squad to post its first non-losing campaign in four years.