Varsity Insider

Of all the teams I’ve seen so far this summer, the circumstances surrounding my look at John Jay make it the most difficult team to judge. The Indians joined the roll call at White Plains just a day or two before the scrimmages. They played without a starting lineman and Jimmy Clark said he only called pass plays because the blocking schemes for run plays were too difficult with the roster he had.

The pass-happy display showcased the talents of new QB Hime Rraci. I actually had an opportunity to catch one of Rraci’s best moments, when he came on in relief of Jameson Pickel and threw for 59 yards and rushed for two scores against Carmel. John Jay nearly came back to win, losing 31-28, but Rraci did just about everything he could. He also threw for 227 yards in a loss to Arlington.

Rraci was, without a doubt, the best pure thrower there on Thursday. His motion was easy and his arm was strong and accurate. Clark believes Rraci could throw it better than any QB he’s had.

The receiving corps may not feature a Dan Sheeran, but Rraci will have as many as six or seven options who are tough and won’t drop the ball. Incumbent RBs, senior Brian Kass and junior Danny Caiola, will earn the bulk of the carries. Returning senior center John Cooley and seniors Rob Hunt and Lucas Myer will anchor the line, but big 6-4, 230 junior Ryan Sanders could be a standout on both sides of the ball.

Defense will be John Jay’s biggest challenge again. Last year, the Indians finished just 4-5, allowing too many open receivers and struggling tackling in general. That didn’t change on Thursday when they were scorched by Roosevelt at will, although, again, many of the Indians top big men were missing. Two of their most talented defensive players are actually defensive backs, seniors Jimmy and Brendan Morris.

Let’s take a look at John Jay’s schedule:

Sept. 11, at Panas
Sept. 16, at Greeley
Sept. 24, at Lakeland
Oct. 2, vs. Brewster
Oct. 9, vs. Somers
Oct. 16, vs. Poughkeepsie

It’s not impossible, but it is peculiar: Three road games followed by three home games. Ultimately, it appears John Jay’s fate will be determined by its defense rather than its offense. The Indians should score points, but will they prevent them?