Carson High’s football team gets a little help Friday night against North Valleys with the return of junior defensive tackle Sheldon Miller.
Miller, who started during the playoffs last year, missed the first two games for violation of team/school rules. He was allowed to practice with the team during that span.
In three games last year, Miller had 14 tackles, two sacks and a caused fumble.
“It’s been stressful,” Miller said before Monday’s practice. “It’s been hard to be on the sidelines (and not play). Now I know what coaches go through.”
Coach Blair Roman welcomed Miller back, and said he’ll work on both sides of the ball.
“We’ve missed him,” Roman said. “Obviously he will help immensely on the defensive line. We are also going to give him some reps on offense just to give us some depth there.”
Inside linebacker Ikela Lewis says Miller’s presence makes a big difference.
“It’s huge,” Lewis said. “He’s a key guy. He played great on the defensive line last year.
“The defensive line is strong (as a unit) and getting better. It helps when you get a key guy like that.”
Vic Castro, defensive line coach, said Miller will team up with Isaiah Prater, Connor Sievers and Tyler Lethcoe at the two inside tackle spots.
Also returning after a two-week suspension is cornerback Mathias Williams, who figures to help on special teams and provide depth at cornerback.
DINGED UP TEAM
The Senators are a banged-up bunch entering Friday’s game.
Ian Schulz (ankle) is day-to-day as is cornerback Caulin Bartley (upper leg). Lineman Bryceton Schilling (ankle) appears to be out.
Center Austin Ackerman and guard-center Corey Jasper are nursing injuries and won’t be at full strength.
Roman said the injuries could force some shuffling on the offensive line. He said Blaine Soukup (6-4, 240) will see time at tackle.
“We talk a lot about stepping up,” Roman said. “Injuries, unfortunately, are part of the game. Other guys get a chance to show what they can do.”
A LOOK AT NORTH VALLEYS
The Panthers are coming off a 35-27 win at Douglas, and Roman was impressed with the NV defense.
“Their defense is much improved,” Roman said. “I’m impressed with the technique-type things they are doing.”
Linebacker Cardayell Morgan had seven stops last week, while defensive end Logan Ramirez and linebacker Kyle Lemberes had four each.
North Valleys isn’t using as much spread offense as it has in the past.
“They have gone away from it,” Roman said. “They have incorporated a lot of our offense.”
Quarterback Matt Sneed rushed 16 times for 116 yards, and he was also 5-for-8 passing for 73 yards and a score.
Alex Frasier and Ben Westby each gained 66 yards rushing.