Scouting report
• The Rockets will play the 2017 season with two co-head coaches, veteran assistants in DePorter and Zick. 
• R-B returns two starters on offense from last season and four on defense. DePorter said, “This team’s main goal right now is learning how to work with the new players, and for some guys, learning new positions. We will need to rely on good technique and sound execution to help us improve each week.”
• Four key linebackers return from the R-B defense. Seniors Shane Byrne (6-2, 185), Matt Kortan (5-6, 135) and Ben Orkild (5-9, 145) join junior Mike Kaufman (6-1, 185) in the middle of the defense. 
• Byrne is a returning running back who rushed for 607 yards and 11 touchdowns on 104 carries a year ago. Senior Mark Marzahl led the Rockets in rushing yards last season but is not playing football this year, instead focusing on basketball. Junior running back Jimmy Horner (5-9, 170) could receive a share of the handoffs, as well as senior running back Blaze Bigos (5-9, 165).
• The other returning starter on offense is tight end Jake Rupnik (6-2, 180), a senior. Taking over at the quarterback position is junior Luke Uhwat (6-2, 180). Uhwat pitched for the Rockets varsity baseball team this spring as a sophomore. The offensive line is in for some changes. Senior Andy Myland (5-7, 170) and junior Josh Dumont (6-0, 215) are expected to take over two of the starting spots. Both also will play on the defensive line.

What has to happen?
Last season, the Rockets started the year 1-2 before rallying to finish the regular season at 6-3. A strong start to 2017 would help. R-B plays three of the KRC’s best (Johnsburg, Woodstock North and Marengo) on the road, so a big road win or two would go a long way toward a conference title. (NWHerald 8/23/17)