The Perry offense will be under the direction of a new quarterback this year as senior Ryan Rathje takes over the offense from the departed Will Whiton.  Rathje completed 55% of his passes last year in a limited role serving as Whiton’s back-up.  He threw for 255 yards and 1 touchdown.

“Ryan has really stepped up for us both in the summer and fall camps,” stated a confident Jason Olejniczak.  “He has enjoyed a great camp and I have all the confidence in him.  He did take a few snaps last year when we split Will as a receiver so he has been in the pressure and heat of the moment before.  I’m expecting big things from him and I am excited to see the different dimension that he brings to the offense.”

Rathje will be a different type of quarterback than what Perry has enjoyed over the past 4 years.  His size at 6-5 will be his biggest weapon and has showed a big arm in practice.

“He really stands in the pocket well,” stated Olejniczak.  “He has the ability to buy himself some time.  He won’t look to pull it down and run with it like Will did last year.  He still has the ability to move in the pocket and keep his eyes downfield and he throws really well on the run.  We will try to move the pocket some and get him outside of the pressure.”

Who Rathje will throw to still remains a big question heading into the season opener tomorrow night.  Senior Tae Lucas appears to be his favorite target in summer and fall camp with Reece Dunlop, Kade Van Kirk, Jacob Thompson and tight ends Marcus Meri and Solomon Pierce all looking for touches.  You can listen to Perry and ADM tomorrow night on KDLS and raccoonvalleyradio.com.