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Top 10 countdown: Alonso looks to make move to elite status

Tribune file photo by KEVIN HOWE

C.J. Bennett leads what should be an explosive offense for No. 5 Alonso this season.

By KATHERINE SMITH | The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 23, 2009

No. 5: Alonso

Alonso has been to the playoffs. It has won district championships. Now it wants to achieve respect as one of the premier programs in the county.
Winning in its new Class 5A-District 5, arguably the toughest district in the county, would accomplish that.

Led by quarterback C.J. Bennett, Alonso's offense is capable of scoring anytime, anywhere. Bennett has plenty of weapons at his disposal, including receiver Justen Davis, a tall target with great hands, and Jesse Anaya, a versatile speedster the Ravens can line up at several different positions.

Bennett's second full season as a starter means he will have more responsibility. The Wyoming recruit, who led the county with 3,017 passing yards last season, has such a great command of the offense that Coach Mike Heldt feels comfortable with Bennett calling the plays.

It's a rebuilding year on defense for the Ravens. With top defensive linemen Demonte McAllister and Teddy Eumo graduating, Heldt is looking for some players to step up. Joshua Armand and Anthony Chickillo are willing to do that. Armand was fourth on the team last season with six sacks. Chickillo, a Gaither transfer who has an offer from Miami, led the Cowboys with 8.5 sacks.

An unforgiving schedule that includes road games against Armwood, Hillsborough and new district rival and defending state champion Plant will test the Ravens unlike in any other season.

Plant and Alonso meet on Oct. 23 in a game that will feature two of the county's top offenses and is expected to determine the district champion.

KICKOFF CLASSIC: Friday at Freedom
SEASON OPENER: Sept. 4 vs. Brandon

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