Northgate Football Preview: Broncos Come in With Higher Expectations

Head Coach: Justin Lowell

2009 Record: 4-6

Returning Starters: Four on Offense; Seven on Defense

Top Offensive Players: WR Matt Butler, Sr.; OG Ben Davidson, Sr; OG Max Levy, Sr.; RB Cameron Stover, Sr.; OT Dean Weeks, Sr.

Top Defensive Players: DB Butler, LB Rhys Hamilton, Jr.; LB Jon Jon Ioane, Jr.; S Blair Schmidt, Jr.; LB Stover.

Team Strengths: Experience, skill players on offense

Rivalry Game: Northgate at Las Lomas, Friday, Sept. 24

Mark the Calendar: Today vs Dublin -- first home game with lights

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When the Northgate High football team kicks off against Dublin tonight in its season-opener, the Broncos will be doing so with a rejuvenated attitude. 

After a season in which they stumbled to a 4-6 record a year ago, expectations headed into this year call for a marked improvement.

"We expect to make a run and make the playoffs," Northgate coach Justin Lowell said.

If that's indeed what happens, it'll likely take outstanding seasons from running back Cameron Stover and receiver Matt Butler. 

The Broncos will still employ their double-wing offense, but have added mullitple sets which Lowell said should allow them to take advantage of their skill guys. Buter, who was counted on to carry the ball last year, shifts more to a receiving role where he'll be used to stretch opposing defenses.

"Both those guys (Stover and Butler) are threats," Lowell said. "We just have to get better on D."

For Butler, the heightened expectations are welcomed.

"(Teams) should expect a bunch of young hitters (when they play Northgate)," Butler said. "That's what we do."

He's also ready to start playing home games under the lights.

"I'm most looking forward to playing under the lights for the first time," he said. 

After its opener against Dublin tonight, Northgate will host Tennyson and travel to Dougherty Valley before taking on crosstown rival Las Lomas on Sept. 24. 

The Broncos will open Diablo Valley Athletic League play against College Park on Oct. 15.

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Schedule

9/3 vs Dublin

9/10 vs Tennyson

9/17 @ Dougherty Valley

9/24 @ Las Lomas

10/2 vs Valley Christian

10/15 vs College Park at DVC

10/22 @ Clayton Valley

10/30 vs Ygnacio Valley

11/6 vs Concord

11/12 @ Mt. Diablo

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Follow Patch Sports East Bay on Twitter for live updates from tonight's game against Dublin