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 Esperanza relied heavily on running back Patrick Campos, top, last season, but the Aztecs think they should have an improved passing game this season. Campos rushed for 745 yards as the team’s primary option on offense in 2014.
Esperanza relied heavily on running back Patrick Campos, top, last season, but the Aztecs think they should have an improved passing game this season. Campos rushed for 745 yards as the team’s primary option on offense in 2014.
Associate mug of Kenny Connolly, Anaheim reporter.

Date shot: 12/31/2012 . Photo by KATE LUCAS /  ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER

OCVarsity’s season preview for 2015:

ESPERANZA AZTECS

Coach: Gary Bowers

Last season: 4-6 overall, 1-2 league

Scouting report: The Aztecs roster is loaded with seniors hungry to make the playoffs a season after their Week 10 loss to Foothill was all that kept them out of the postseason. Middle linebacker Anthony Koclanakis and defensive end Jordan Ammann head a veteran front seven that returns virtually everyone, meaning Esperanza will be stout against the run. On offense, wide receiver Blake Peters and a talented receiving corps have impressed in camp, which would provide Esperanza with a steady passing attack it hasn’t boasted in recent memory. “We’re expecting big things from (quarterback Trevor) Markowitz and Peters,” Bowers said. “We’ll make some adjustments to get our playmakers the ball.” A more balanced attack would certainly make life easier on Patrick Campos, who rushed for 745 yards as the team’s primary option in 2014. The Aztecs scored a combined 10 points against Villa Park and Esperanza in Weeks 9 and 10 last year, so a few more weapons certainly makes them a larger threat in league this fall.

Bottom line: If Markowitz and the passing attack have in fact made strides, the Crestview League race becomes much more interesting than it has been the past two years.

Players to watch: Jordan Ammann, OT/DE, Sr.; Patrick Campos, RB, Sr.; Anthony Koclanakis, RB/LB, Sr.; Trevor Markowitz, QB, Sr.; Brian McCann, OT, Sr.; Blake Peters, WR/S, Sr.

ESPERANZA ROSTER

ESPERANZA SCHEDULE

Contact the writer: kconnolly@ocregister.com