prep football preview:

Losing streak behind them, Clark thinking playoffs

Sam Morris

Clark football players Michael Withers (L) and Andre Clark Thursday, Aug. 6, 2009.

Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009 | 2 a.m.

Clark High coach Don Willis is amazed by the excitement for football and confidence his players have this year in comparison to when he took the job four years ago.

“It’s an 180-degrees difference,” Willis said. “That losing streak wears on your mentality no matter who you are.”

The losing streak he’s referring to, of course, was Clark’s infamous 42-game skid that lasted into the 2007 season. Finally, the Chargers are over it.

They won three games last season and are optimistic about topping that total this season. Willis won’t hide how they will attempt to do it — running the football.

Offensively, senior running back Andre Clay and senior fullback Keneal Riley will carry the Chargers. Willis also hinted at a possible breakout from junior running back Derrick West.

The concern comes on the offensive line, where Clark lost most of its starters from last season.

“Our weakness is we’re going to be young up front,” Willis said. “I think our biggest concern will be size and strength.”

Clark, however, has some strength defensively. Willis said senior defensive ends Alec Kolinsky and Mike Withers would lead the defense.

Last season, Clark was a victory away from a playoff berth. That should illustrate how far the Chargers have come in the last few years. Perhaps, they can solidify it this season.

“Our program has gotten better,” Willis said. “I think every year it shows our pride a little more with what we do on the field.”

Case Keefer can be reached at 948-2790 or at case.keefer@lasvegassun.com.

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