ROSELLE – Now in his second season at the helm after coming over from East Orange Campus, head coach James Williams has a better feel for how he will get the Rams up to speed.
"Now that I know the (Mid-State 38) conference, my judgement this year will be a little bit easier," Williams said. "This conference is more of a running conference.
After an 0-3 starter last year, Roselle rebounded to win four of its final seven games to finish 4-6.
"We weren't picked to win many games last year," Williams said. "We're going to continue to try to get better.
Taking over the reigns at quarterback is sophomore Gerald Hairston, III.
"He's real poised in the pocket and real smart," Williams said. "He knows what everyone is doing on the field; he's a coach on the field.
One of Roselle's seven starters back on offense is senior Darryn Canady, a tough runner to bring down.
Four of the five starting linemen – Darnell Daley-Oliver, Michael Croom, Andre Viyodachli and Ed Accinot – started a year ago.
Leading Roselle's defense is senior right end Jaquan McLeod, who produced 12 sacks in 2013.
Williams also said that McLeod, Canady, Daley-Oliver and senior Jordy Moise – who is another returning two-way starter – are getting looks from several colleges.
Roselle gave up 209 points last year in 10 games which isn't horrible. However, the Rams are working hard on reducing that number.
"The main thing is getting smarter and recognizing sets," Williams said. "Players need to be in the right position to make the tackle.
One player Williams mentioned as part of solving that dilemma is sophomore right tackle Tyreke Benjamin, listed at 6-0, 280.
"Benjamin's a two-gap player, he'll be tough to move," Williams said.
Roselle opens with consecutive non-division road games against neighborhood rival Rahway and arch rival Hillside.
"We have a tough schedule, there are no easy games on it," Williams said. "My kids have to play four quarters.
Viyodachli, Accinot, Valeus, Canady, Moise.
Head Coach: James Williams, since 2013.
A 1989 Clifford Scott graduate.
Robbinsville by the decisive score of 34-13.
Sept. 13 at Rahway, 1 p.m.
Sept. 20 at Hillside, 1 p.m.
Sept. 27 Cranford, 1 p.m.
Oct. 3 at Delaware Valley, 7 p.m.
Oct. 11 Summit, 1 p.m.
Oct. 18 Johnson, 1 p.m.
Oct. 24 at Brearley, 7 p.m.
Nov. 8 Bernards, 2 p.m.
Nov. 27 at Roselle Park, 10:30 a.m.