Newburger era begins at Burlington Central
Jason Newburger wasn't hired to rebuild the Burlington Central football program.
More like redirect it.
The 2002 Vernon Hills graduate was tabbed in May to replace Rich Crabel, who stepped down last December with a 22-16 record and two playoff appearances in four seasons.
The Rockets went 6-4 in 2014, losing to Sterling 31-20 in the first round of the Class 5A playoffs.
"I didn't take over a program that was desolate," said Newburger, an all-state quarterback at Vernon Hills in 2001-02. "They made the playoffs last year and they have a lot of tradition here. It's nice to pick up at that point and put my spin on a community based football program and have the community be excited about Friday night lights on Rocket Hill."
A high-scoring offense is the spin Newburger hopes to put on Rockets football, an attack directed by returning quarterback Robert Doubek (5-foot-11, 180 pounds).
A part-time starter last season, Doubek completed 62 of 127 attempts (49 percent) for 844 yards and 5 touchdowns against 5 interceptions. The senior has grown into a leadership role, according to his coach.
Exactly to whom Doubek will throw and hand off the ball, not to mention how, remains somewhat of a mystery as the first-year coach attempts to keep rival Hampshire guessing before their opening-night matchup on Friday.
Newburger did say running back Jason Berango will play a role. A 5-foot-8, 175-pound senior, Berango led the Rockets last season with 701 yards in 111 attempts (6.3 avg.) and scored 10 touchdowns.
"I expect him and all our backs to make plays when they have the opportunities," Newburger said.
Two wide receivers who will be in the mix are 6-foot-2 senior Tommy Moretti and 5-9 junior James Fay. Moretti is a good route runner and blocker, his coach said. Fay enjoyed success at the sophomore level last year.
The offensive line welcomes back two starters: third-year right guard Esteban Escobar (5-11, 240) and center James Ankrom (6-2, 245).
Defensively, the Rockets hope to be strong against the run with the help of 6-foot-2, 288-pound junior Bret Lopez, who anchors the line at end.
Senior Brad Sorensen (6-1, 185) returns at inside linebacker and may drop back as a safety depending on the situation. A two-way player a year ago, he also logged 42 carries for 277 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Newburger said seniors Brandon Spinnato (5-11, 150) and Ian Kumlin (6-0, 165) "always seem to be in the right spot, which is a good quality for cornerbacks to have."
The first-year coach said his defensive philosophy remains the same regardless of the scheme.
"Defense comes down to if you can beat the block," Newburger said. "Can you win the one-on-one battle and make the tackle? Whether we're in a 4-3, 3-4 or a stack, that's what it comes down to, the individual battles within the defense.
"I expect the defense to play fast and physical. That's what we've seen so far this summer and fall."