Mike Vukovcan On Tuesday, Vikings Sports Now started our look at each position on the Hopewell Vikings 2025 football team by looking at the defensive line.
With the likes of Keith Young, Brian McCabe, Nick Thomas, Aris Haniotes, etc. the defensive line will be one of if not the deepest position on the team.
By having such a productive defensive line, the other parts of the defensive will no doubt benefit. If the guys up front can get to the quarterback or at least pressure them, that will mean less time that the defensive backs have to stay with the wide receivers.
The other guys on defense that will benefit from a strong defensive line are the Hopewell linebackers. With the opposing offensive line working to matchup up with the DL, the Viking linebackers will have more room to find space to attack the opposing quarterback and running backs.
During our recent conversation, Hopewell HC Matt Mottes went over some of the names you’ll see at the linebacker position.
“We have Justin Obeldobel returning, we have Zander Muzy returning,” said Coach Mottes. “Zander led the linebackers in sacks last year and also had two defensive touchdowns. We’ve added George Tafkov (from Keystone Oaks). I’ve hoping that Grant Houy can do some things for us this year. He’s actually one of our best tacklers.”
“We’ve been flirting with the idea of maybe moving Avery Bokor down to outside linebacker. Avery has gained some nice size over the off-season and with his speed, size and toughness, I think he can be an asset at linebacker for us. Anytime you can return nine defensive starters returning, it’s always a good thing.”
Hopewell will take on Ellwood City in a scrimmage on August 16th, followed by the season opener at Riverside on August 22nd. The 2025 Home Opener will take place on August 29th against New Castle.
