Plum Varsity Football Preview 2011

The Plum Mustangs varsity football team has improved its record for the past two seasons, leading to back-to-back playoff appearances.  The Mustangs look to continue that trend as the 2011 football season draws near. 

For Plum to improve upon its 3-3 conference record from a year ago, a duo of seniors will be vital. 

Quarterback Chris Zdinak and receiver C.J. Lutz proved to be one of the most prolific combinations in the WPIAL last season. Zdinak passed for approximately 1,000 yards, with Lutz on the receiving end of nearly half of those. 

Plum’s Head Coach Frank Sacco called both individuals two of the most underrated players in all of the WPIAL.  

When talking about Zdinak’s contributions last year, Sacco stated, “He put us on his shoulders at times last season, and won a few games almost single-handedly for us.”

Sacco believes his signalcaller will be even more effective this season, and he said Zdinak has displayed a better understanding of defenses. 

Meanwhile, Lutz also seems poised for an increase in production, as he has added more muscle to his 170 pound frame, in combination with his speed that made him a big play threat in 2010.  

While Lutz is clearly the go-to player in the passing game, a pair of running backs will likely split carries for the Mustangs.

Tarique Ellis, who also stars for the basketball team, will provide the speed in the backfield. In contrast, the power running will come from Jake Diguilio. 

Sacco indicated that Diguilio could play a significant role in the offense this year.

“With Jake, he is a hard-nosed runner kind of in the mold of (former NFL Tampa Bay Buccaneer Mike Alstott," he said. "We want to get him the ball more.”

Both Ellis and Diguilio are standouts on the defensive side of the ball, as well. Ellis, who played cornerback in the past, will move to safety this year, due to his tremendous tackling ability.  Diguilio, who will anchor the linebacking corps this year, was praised for his great instincts by his coach.

While the Mustangs return many of their skill players from a year ago, both offensive and defensive lines lack experience. Sacco said he has been pleased with the aggressiveness of many of his younger players during camp—particularly sophomore Steve Turchick. 

Plum finished last season’s conference play on a high note, winning its final three contests, after dropping the first three. To improve their conference record in 2011, the Mustangs must upset at least one of their most formidable opponents—Woodland Hills, Penn Hills, and Central Catholic.

Sacco summarized his outlook for the season, saying “Our expectation is trying to keep things aggressive. Every year we want to take the next step. If we do that this year, it will be a very big step.”

Football Schedule

Sept. 2—Home game against Franklin Regional High School at 7 p.m.

Sept. 9—Home game against Kittanning High School at 7 p.m.

Sept. 16—Home game against Woodland Hills High School at 7 p.m.

Sept. 23—Away game against Penn Hills High School at 7:30 p.m.

Sept. 30—Away game against Highlands High School at 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 7—Home game against Central Catholic High School at 7 p.m.

Oct. 14—Away game against Altoona High School at 7 p.m.

Oct. 21—Home game against Fox Chapel High School at 7 p.m.

Oct. 28—Away game against Kiski Area High School at 7:30 p.m.