Winter 2013 Issue

Junior defensive lineman Danny Samson, no. 15, against the University of Dubuque Sept. 29, 2012.

Injuries and inexperience led to a 2-4 start, but the Central football team flashed potential in winning three of its final four games.

The Dutch defense was especially hard hit, losing five of 11 starters to injury. But Central nonetheless knocked off preseason title favorite Dubuque and perennial contender Wartburg in a 5-5 season. The squad started just four seniors on offense and two on defense.

Sophomore kicker Kevin Sheldon was a first-team all-league honoree for the second time, while junior defensive lineman Danny Samson was also a first-team pick. Junior linebacker Mike Young, junior offensive lineman Travis Hook and sophomore defensive back Eric Larson were second-team choices.

Young topped the team tackle charts with 79. Senior Ross Doehrmann rushed for 584 yards while sophomore quarterback Aaron Eiseler passed for 1,311 yards, taking over as the starter midway through the season.