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Terms such as “frantic” and “multiple” might characterize Patterson High’s defense under coach-defensive coordinator Rob Cozart. Players have learned dual positions, and they’ll be utilized in a variety of formations, mixing and matching defensive fronts.

“The strength of the defense this year is definitely speed,” Cozart said. “All 11 defenders are quick and have a mentality and desire to be the first to the ballcarrier.”

The Tigers return three of four starting defensive linemen from last season’s section finalist team: guard/defensive tackle Danny Arriola, defensive tackle Jorden Faatiga and defensive end Imani Brown.

“I’ve coined a phrase with them,” Cozart said. “It should sound like a train wreck on every play.”

Other key defensive players to watch include defensive tackle Jacob Priester, linebacker Siaosi Tupouata, cornerback Malik Okitukunda, cornerback Larry Taylor and strong safety Anthony Ginestra.

Cozart has a young and talented offensive group that is also loaded with speed.

The Tigers are a junior-laden team but are led by senior quarterback Daniel Reza, who helms an explosive spread offense with a strong line and a group of receivers that can flat-out fly.

“Speed is also a strength of this offense, but precision will also be a must,” Cozart said.

Last season, Reza passed for more than 1,200 yards. And senior playmaker Ronyea Ellington will once again be Reza’s No. 1 target at receiver.

According to Cozart, the pass game has been revamped, and the run game will see a solid platoon of running backs looking to grind it out inside and on the perimeter.

Last week’s scrimmage with Ceres showcased no fewer than eight potential backs.

The Tigers face McClatchy of Sacramento in the season opener Friday.

The Lions went 3-6 last season, averaging only 10.2 points per game. Opponents scored an average of 44.2 points per game against their porous defense.

First-year coach Malcolm Floyd will rely heavily on his linemen and linebacking corps — the only two areas on the field that boast experienced players.

Still, Cozart never overlooks any opponent and takes one game at a time.

“We never set a goal of finishing in second place, so of course we are focused on winning the (Western Athletic Conference) championship,” he said. “I do, however, believe that this year’s team will do some very good things and continue our playoff streak, making some noise along the way.”

To reach Marc Aceves at the Irrigator, call 892-6187 or e-mail him at marc@pattersonirrigator.com  and read his blog at On the Mark.





Patterson High football schedule

Date	Opponent	Time
Sept. 12 Sept. 19 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 10 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 31 Nov. 7 Nov. 14	vs. McClatchy vs. Escalon vs. Sierra vs. Downey vs. Modesto vs. Oristimba vs. Gustine vs. Livingston vs. Central Catholic vs. Hilmar	5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m. 5:30/7:30 p.m.