Made the short drive to Westchase to see Coach Brian Emmanuel’s Alonso Ravens prep for their huge game versus Plant City on Friday. Without spoiling my preview or giving up the ghost, here’s a few things that I noticed:

1. Alonso won’t pass the eye test when they get off the bus, but go ahead and doubt them. Do it at your own risk.

2. One of the most efficient practices I’ve seen. Saw constant movement with an emphasis on correcting issues immediately. Although the mood was light, you can feel the quiet confidence that their coaching staff speaks about.

3. I’m quite confident that the 2nd Snare in DeLand’s Drumline is bigger than their center, but that’s where the joke stops. Watched him play after play and he is not to be taken lightly. (No pun intended)…Makes you believe in what Jim Valvano spoke about ages ago at a banquet I attended at Stetson that “You + Motivation = Success”…

4. The Ravens seem to embrace the “Us against the world” mentality. Makes a ton of sense why they’ve made it to 5-0 without a ton of fanfare. They don’t need a parade for their accomplishments. Don’t know how to quantify that exactly, but that ‘s dangerous when you combine it with solid preparation. They won’t lose for lack of game planning or from lack of heart.

5. Really like what OL/LB Marcus Neuman can bring to the  next level. Kid’s got great size and especially at the LB position shows great instincts. College coaches reading this better go back and check his film. He needs to be on your roster wherever you are. Mid-Major D1 talent.