Two-a-days: Columbus and District B-5

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By the Lincoln Journal Star

A closer look

Columbus

For a majority of the last few decades, the Discoverers have competed in Class A.

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This year, Columbus will play in Class B. The Discoverers return a strong nucleus from last year’s team that was 5-4 in the state’s top classification.

Seven offensive and six defensive starters return and  make Columbus the heavy favorite to win the district and earn its first state playoff berth since 2003.

The Discoverers return many players on the defensive line and have experienced receivers.

Columbus also returns multi-dimensional Michael Ziola. Besides throwing for 1,383 yards last year and playing free safety, Ziola made 13 of 15 field goals and averaged 41.7 yards per punt.

District B-5

Just like Columbus High, Columbus Lakeview changed classes this year. However, Lakeview made the jump up from Class C-1. The Vikings return five starters from last year’s playoff team and will play both Columbus High and Columbus Scotus.

Seward returns 25 lettermen from last year’s playoff team.

York looks to improve on last year’s 2-7 record. Three returning starters on the offensive line and the development of its skill players will be the key to the season.

PLAYMAKERS

* York’s Ty Branz is a big linebacker who makes a lot of plays.

* Columbus’ Grant Otten caught 30 passes for 338 yards last year.

* Kicker Andrew Urkoski tied  Columbus Lakeview’s record for points last year.

COACHES’ PREDICTIONS

1. Columbus, 2. Seward, 3. Columbus Lakeview, 4. York.