5 Creek Wood players to watch this season

Although the Red Hawks lost a bevy of talent last year, they are returning plenty of faces. Some may be new, but still have plenty of varsity and game experience to offer. Here are five Creek Wood players to keep an eye on this year.

Kendell Lyles, Sr., LB: Lyles is a part of a talented linebacker core the Red Hawks possess. Lyles lined up with Stetson Spicer and Zach Harris in the middle of the field last year, so he has some playing time under his belt. He’ll be looked upon as one of the leaders on defense this year.

“He gives us an ability as an outside linebacker to play the run, and play coverage,” said Creek Wood coach Houston Thiel.

Sam Askins, Jr., ATH: Askins’ primary position is at the defensive back spot covering the opposing team’s best receiver. However, his ball skills make him an intriguing target on the offensive side of the ball as well. He’ll be asked to play as a slot receiver and as a Z-back.

“(He’s an) athlete,” said Thiel.

“He’s the type of kid that, when the ball’s in his hands, special things can happen.”

Garrett Dolinich, Sr., DE/TE: Dolinich will look to be a similar headache to opposing teams as Hayden Boone was last year. Not only is Dolinich a fierce pass-rusher from the edge, but he’s also a red-zone threat on the offensive side of the ball due to his size and ability to outleap defenders.

“Garrett’s going to play a huge role for our team,” said Thiel.

“He’s a guy that we can line up at tight end that can block people really well, or we can flex him out wide and he’s going to outjump people.”

Daniel Davila, So., DE/RB: Davila’s main role last year, as a freshman, was the backup of Quinton Poole who would come in and run whenever Poole needed a breather.

Now, Davila will serve as one of the catalysts behind the Red Hawks’ ground attack. He’ll also be asked to play on the opposite end of the defensive line of Dolinich to rush the passer and put pressure on the edges.

“Daniel is special, and has a lot of talent,” said Thiel. “He just shows up, and goes to work every day. He does what I ask him to do, and he’s going to put everything he’s got into it.”

Timmy Randolph, Sr., QB: After sitting behind Devon Higgins for an entire year, Timmy Randolph is ready to show he’s in charge of the offense. He’ll be asked to not only make plays with his arm, but also with his legs when asked.

“Timmy is our leader,” said Thiel.

“That’s something that comes with the position. I think he’s done a great job picking up the offense, and is a threat running.”

Reach Andy Simmons by email jasimmons@gannett.com or on Twitter @AndyDHTN