OCVarsity scouting report: Capistrano Valley

Capistrano Valley’s Tyler Waggoner, from left, Alex Bale, Mitchell Nikovich and Kevin Brown will try to lead the Cougars back to the CIF-SS playoffs.
Capistrano Valley’s Zack Stroud, from left, Alex Bale, Tyler Waggoner, Mitchell Nikovich and Kevin Brown will try to lead the Cougars back to the CIF-SS playoffs.
Capistrano Valley wide receiver Mitchell Nikovich had 62 catches in 2014.
Capistrano Valley safety Zack Stroud is expected to be a key player on a defense that returns two starters.

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By Dan Albano | dalbano@scng.com | Orange County Register

August 25, 2015 at 5:15 p.m.

OCVarsity’s preview for the 2015 season:

CAPISTRANO VALLEY COUGARS

Coach: Ernie Bucher

Last season: 9-4 overall, 2-2 league

Scouting report: The Cougars graduated most of the starters from their Southwest Division semifinal team of 2014. They return four starters on offense and two on defense. Capistrano Valley turns to promising, 6-foot-3 junior Kevin Brown to replace Gavin Pruett at quarterback. Brown will have weapons led by standout receiver Mitchell Nickovich (62 catches in ’14) and returning running back Tyler Waggoner (376 yards in ’14). Junior Tim Anderson (6-4, 260) is an emerging standout at left tackle and guard Brayden Stotts is a key senior leader, but the Cougars have questions on both lines. Defensive tackle Alex Bale (10 sacks in ’14) is a returning starter and one of the county’s best. Linebacker Brock Ricci and safety Zach Stroud are other important defensive players.

Bottom line: The Cougars will need to build experience and confidence at several positions to make a return trip to the playoffs.

Players to watch: Alex Bale, DT, Sr.; Tyler Waggoner, RB, Sr.; Tim Anderson, OT, Jr.; Brock Ricci, LB, Jr.; Zach Stroud, S, Sr.; Brayden Stotts, OG, Sr.

CAPO VALLEY ROSTER

CAPO VALLEY SCHEDULE

Contact the writer: dalbano@ocregister.com