Arlington: faster, simpler

ARLINGTON Predictability hasn't exactly been a hallmark of recent Arlington football history.

For this fall's senior class, head coach Greg Dailer marks the third head football coach in their high school careers.

But those guys aren't hanging their heads either. Dailer, who was an assistant last year under Tim Tramp, brings a new offense to Arlington and change, with apologies to a certain presidential campaign, that the players believe in.

Of Dailer, senior running back Chris Myers, "He gives a real good vibe."

Myers added of the new plan, "The game's changed a lot. A lot faster, simpler. Get to the point."

Myers figures to be a big utility guy this season for the Eagles as they usher in Dailer's system. Before junior quarterback Jake Parduhn was cleared to play after spending the summer on the mend, Myers emerged as a probable replacement and is still likely to spend some time Friday nights behind center.

Dailer added that he hopes to see Myers making a few catches as well when he's not lining up at outside linebacker on the defensive side of the ball.

Parduhn, who the coach describes as "a 4.0 kind of guy," returns from a sophomore season in which he emerged as the Arlington starter. His intelligence and ability to learn the system will be big strengths this season, according to Dailer.

The spread option seems an appropriate transition for Arlington as they move back into 4A. While smaller schools like Everett often depend on an aerial attack to keep bigger schools' defenses honest, a more run-based offense prevents the turnovers more prone to a passing game.

Arlington has the talent to do a mix of both, as Dailer counts three more wide receivers to be among his key players this season. Alex Marshman, Dylan Lindberg and Connor Varnell all figure into the passing game, doubling at safety and defensive back.

Kellen Botten and Russell Wedekind join Myers in creating a core of running backs that hope to exploit the opportunities Arlington's passing game should create.

In his final season with the team, Myers said he thinks a district playoff slot is within Arlington's grasp.

"Our goal is definitely to win the Stilly Cup ... and try to make the playoffs," he said. "We're a close team and I think we can do it."

Contact Arlington Times Sports Reporter Danielle Szulczewski at dszulczewski@marysvilleglobe.com or 360-659-1300.

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