It’s hard to mention Nature Coast without mentioning Deshawn Smith’s 1,500+ season in rushing and receiving and with the 5-foot-9, 182-pounder returning for his senior season, the Sharks look to build on their 7-win season from 2014. Last season was the first time NCT had reached that plateau since 2007 and were in the playoffs as well. But with the added pressure of meeting the expectations set at the end of the season and going into the Spring, they’re gonna need some contributions from other guys needless to say.

The Sharks calling card is to run the ball, and run the ball often with success to the tune of 288 yards-per-game last season. Much of that was on the legs of Smith, but not without some critical help at the guard and tackle spots clearing the way from guys like RG Hunter Rhineberger and LT/G Cass Cole. Without their help, Nature Coast probably has a tough time running for the 3.172 yards they rushed for as a squad.

Rhineberger is 6-foot-2, 295-pounds and shows a pretty good understanding of how to play the guard spot on the right side. He explodes out of his stance and gets kicked-out quickly when asked to pull and lead the way, and when in pass protection understands the concept of lower-means-stronger gaining solid leverage with his core strength.

Cole plays at the left tackle or can play inside at the guard. He stands at 6-foot-3, and weighs-in at 275-pounds. He also shows great instincts, hands and feet, specifically when at the tackle position and when in pass protection. Once he gets his paws on you and his anchor set, Cole is rather hard to near impossible to move out of the way in time to reach the intended destination if you’re a defensive end or tackle.

The final member of this trio that we feel can make things happen is ATH Cameron Syblis. This member of the class if 2016 posted modest numbers last season, but whether it is at the TE position, or playing LB or RB he has the ability to produce and cause headaches for opposing teams when they least need them. He has a nice frame at 6-foot-2, 190-pounds and has shown he can make can catch on the run, and can produce on the other side with 37 tackles from the linebacker position.