“I think we can be excellent,” said Valentino, who will have his top target back in all-league wideout Justin Watkins, a Northmont High School product.
“Our defense has led us the last couple years, but it’s our turn as an offense to step up.”
The Flyers, who won their 10th title in 17 years in the PFL in 2009, allowed a league-low 13.6 points and 242.6 yards per game. They return a pair of all-league defenders in linebacker-safety James Vercammen and linebacker Joe Ries.
“I don’t think this defense is going to have too many points scored against them,” Valentino said.
Despite having virtually a pat hand going into the season, UD coach Rick Chamberlin hasn’t seen any signs of complacency setting in.
“One great thing about our program is they know they can’t take it easy,” he said. “We have a target on us. When we play other teams, if they can beat Dayton, that makes their season. We play tough enough competition that we can’t take a day off.”
UD lands local pair
The Flyers had 25 of their 27 recruits at the spring game Sunday, including Alter lineman Ryan Cronin and Centerville defensive back John Ehrensberger.
“We were very pleased about getting Ryan to be a part of our program,” Chamberlin said. “He knows what it takes to win, being part of two state championships. And he’s a first-team all-state player. That’s very good news for us.”
Ehrensberger, whose father, Jim, played at Indiana University, also is considered a catch for the Flyers.
“He’s fast,” Chamberlin said. “We’re real excited.”
Extra points
• Jeff Pechan appeared on track to be the starting quarterback last season before injuring his shoulder in a freak summer accident. He’s a solid No. 2 now and led the Red to a 14-7 victory over the White in the split-squad spring game. Playing only one half, he completed 4-of-10 passes for 87 yards and scored a TD on a 1-yard sneak.
• Valentino, Ries and guard Tyler Friedrich were named 2010 tri-captains.
• The Flyers open the season at home against Robert Morris on Sept. 4.
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