Elk Grove has deep thoughts

Elk Grove doesn't feel stretched so thin this year.

"We've got depth," said Elk Grove coach Tom Whalen. "This year we have No. 1s and No. 2s. It's created a lot of competition."

Which in turn has created a lot of optimism that the Grenadiers will be more competitive.

Whalen also likes how the Grens will battle opposing defenses. Sophomore quarterback Nick Meyer is at the controls of a new offense with first-year coordinator Gary Steinbach.

"Nick can do some things and he's a good athlete," Whalen said. "He has maturity.

"We know he'll make mistakes and we're not ignorant to that. But we have confidence in the offensive line and the running backs and receivers are going to make plays for him."

Improved depth will also allow standout linebackers Jake Meyer and Kyle Pfister to not have to carry the entire load in the backfield.

Matt McEnery has the size, speed and leaping ability to be a playmaking receiver. Andy Mack and Chris Kirkpatrick return to anchor both lines.

Senior Anthony Dalaly has an edge at cornerback that has impressed Whalen.

"He's tough as nails," Whalen said.

And Whalen hopes players such as Dalaly can help the Grens put the tough times of the last two years behind them.

"I think we'll do a good job of controlling the ball and giving the defense a long field to defend," Whalen said. "We have a lot of depth at linebacker, a lot of depth on the defensive line and our skill guys will be able to make plays."