Team Preview: Apex Expects a Big Season

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I have begun team previews of some of the top teams in the Raleigh/Durham region.&nbsp; There are a lot of talented players throughout the region.&nbsp; The previews will highlight the recruits on the teams featured.&nbsp; A high level of competition is expected as the high school season starts in late August.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Apex has a new head coach and a new quarterback for the upcoming season. Apex is expected to make the needed adjustments to have a big season. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='397952' first='Chase' last='Klingemann'] (5'10" 170, QB)</strong> is expected to step up and direct the offensive unit during the upcoming season. Chase's primary target of his passes will go to <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='287839' first='Trey' last='Barbee'] (6'3" 160, WR) and [player_tooltip player_id='397953' first='Brandon' last='Tate'] (5'9" 150, WR)</strong>. Trey finished last season with 1,035 receiving yards and 13 TDs. Chase will hand the ball off to workhorse running back, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='44981' first='Ian' last='Bright'] (5'10" 220, RB).</strong> Ian runs inside to gain tough yardage and displays quickness and speed to get outside and accelerate past defenders in the open field for big gains. He finished last season with 1,241 rushing yards and 21 TDs. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='397960' first='Kaleb' last='Morrow'] (6'6" 220, TE)</strong> is expected to be the third passing target and will be counted on heavily to provide blocking up front on the running plays. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='397954' first='Nolan' last='Gavigan'] (6'4" 250, OL) and [player_tooltip player_id='397955' first='Rio' last='Steele'] (6'0" 235, OL)</strong> will use technique and upper body strength to control defenders while opening lanes for the running backs and protecting the quarterback. They are expected to anchor the offensive line.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='397954' first='Nolan' last='Gavigan'] (6'4" 250, DL) and [player_tooltip player_id='397956' first='Keenan' last='Terry'] (5'10" 265, DL) </strong>will use technique and quickness to control blockers, while moving past them for stops. They are expected to anchor the defensive line during the upcoming season. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='397959' first='Dashaun' last='Haney'] (6'1" 180, LB)</strong> will be the leader of the second level of defense. He displayed patience to let the play develop before reacting. Dashaun moves well laterally and displayed good speed to close quickly on plays for stops. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='397953' first='Brandon' last='Tate'] (5'9" 150, ATH) </strong>will use quickness and good technique to cover wide receivers, making it difficult to complete a pass against him. He is expected to be the leader of the defensive secondary. Apex is expected to challenge for the conference crown and advance into the state playoffs. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->