Coach: Dino Woodruff, fifth year

Last season: 3-7, 1-6 Midland Athletic League

Returning letter winners: 13

Returning starters: Offense 9, defense 10

Schemes: Pistol Wing-T/3-4

Top players: Seniors Dalton Ishmael, 6-1, 190, RB/LB; Jordan Watson, 6-1, 185, RB/LB; Jacob Williams, 5-10, 160, QB/S; Jady Snyder, 6-5, 280, OT/DT; Jacob Christensen, 5-8, 210, C; Tanner Straley, 5-10, 220, DT. Juniors Tyler Trumbull, 6-1, 200, OT; Brandon Solly, 5-8, 140, CB; Gabe Delosreyes, 5-6, 130, CB; Zach Stewart, 5-9, 210, G/LB.

Outlook: Based on their returning the bulk of last year's team, the Tigers should take a step forward if they can avoid a rash of injuries.

Ishmael rushed for 1,173 yards (6.9 average) and 20 touchdowns in 2011 when he was All-MAL first team. Watson is transitioning from quarterback to running back, where his talents will be better utilized. As the Tigers' best blocker, he will be called on to open running lanes for Ishmael. Watson is also an able defender, garnering all-league second-team honors as a linebacker. Replacing him at quarterback is Williams, the starting wing back last season.

Snyder is one of three returning starters on the offensive line. A fourth lineman, Stewart, was the fullback last year.

"We never had one game where we had all of our starters available," Woodruff said. "That was our biggest downfall. If we stay healthy, we'll compete with everybody, and you never know what can happen."

2012 NORTH BALTIMORE SCHEDULE

Aug. 24-at Holgate

Aug. 31-Fairview

Sept. 7-Elmwood

Sept. 14-at Hopewell-Loudon

Sept. 21-at Mohawk

Sept. 28-Seneca East

Oct. 5-at Tiffin Calvert

Oct. 12-Carey

Oct. 20-at Fremont St. Joseph

Oct. 26-Lakota

First Published August 22, 2012, 4:00 a.m.