Alliance Football Preview

Alliance is starting new. They're looking for a fresh start and with the new changes made to the coaching staff, they may be able to do just that. Alliance is without former Head Coach Seth Whiting as he left for another job in the area. The Aviators had a disappointing season last year and both parties moving on could be exactly what the Aviators needed. Last year, the Aviators had a collapse. They finished the year 2-8 despite winning 7 games in 2019. Something just didn't click in Alliance last year. Injuries, of course, played a role in that but even still they couldn't win a single game at home. They went 0-3 at home last year and that really left a stinging mark on their season. In 2020, the Aviators averaged 26 ppg but they gave up 29 a game on the defensive side. In some games, it seemed like they couldn't stop the opposing offense until it was too late. Luckily for the Aviators, they're bringing in a young, high-energy, and passionate coach in Tim Goodman. Goodman has his hands full with some issues to fix. He is a Walsh University graduate and has experience at the collegiate level as well as high school. The Aviators are going to be led by Senior OT Stephen Gales. Gales is a big boy and plays the size. He's 6'8" and 290 lbs. He's the reliable edge protector for the offense and they call on him to clear paths when they need it. Gales is a team leader and they follow his lead. He has great reach and actually has decent pass blocking footwork. There are times in the run game where he bends too much and it can get him in trouble. He's a 3-star recruit and is committed to Toledo and is staying home for college. He had bigger offers from schools like Boston College and Pittsburgh but he's deciding to stay home. They will be relying on Senior Mar'Qwayil Greer a ton on defense. He's been a varsity player and has the experience. He's the key piece for them now on defense and all of a sudden he's the old veteran of the room. He's 5'10" and 185 lbs. He's not the biggest LB but he plays hard and hits everything that crosses his face. He's been a key contributor but now is his time to step up and be the guy. I think he understands that role and he's ready to take it head on. Alliance is starting their season at home against McKinley on August 27th at 7 PM. It'll be the start of a new era for the Aviators and they are filled with excitement and anticipation. They will finish their season on the road against Marlington on October 22nd. We'll know by then what they are with the new coaching staff. Hopefully, they bounce back because the Toledo high school football scene is more entertaining when Alliance is pushing for a title.