After their first trip to the Tennessee State Playoffs in 2005, the Tennessee Temple Crusaders are reloaded and ready to make another run in the ever-tough Region 3-A. This year’s Crusaders feature 11 seniors, five of which will be starting both ways for their fourth consecutive year. With experience at every position, this year’s team also features size and speed at the skill positions.

Our offense senior All-State receiver Seth Skogen leads the way and is complimented nicely by the power of senior fullback Josh Smith. Josh led the Crusaders last year in rushing with better than six yards per carry average. With Josh being the thunder, the lightning strikes will some from the blazing quickness of Senior Dee Newsome and Sophomore Joey Skogen. The offense welcomes newcomer Erik Larson at quarterback to lead the quick strike Crusaders. The offensive line, led by senior captains, Justin Walls and Colton Brown, welcome three other seniors, Joey Shiraef, Pablo Penaloza, and Daniel Mouw, as the men in the trenches get the job done for one of the most potent offenses in the city.

On defense, Temple brings back eight starters anchored in the middle by Senior captain, Josh Smith. Also returning is sophomore Joey Skogen who averaged ten tackles per game last season. This year’s defense is bigger, stronger, faster, more aggressive and more disciplined. We are looking forward to great things from the Crusader team this season and we will give God all the glory and honor for it all. home