TaconicX-Factor: Eddie Ferris

An injury spoiled what looked to be a promising junior season for Eddie Ferris. Despite struggles at quarterback, Ferris had 126 all-purpose yards and a touchdown for the Thunder through three games. He delivered big hits as a gap-filling linebacker and remains the key to the Taconic defense.

One of the county's premier power hitters in the spring is ready to deal out some powerful hits this fall. A healthy return will do wonders for Taconic's offense as well, as Ferris' frame provides coach Justin Bailey a workhorse to run between the tackles. Especially since the quarterback position is still a work-in-progress.

X-Factor: Evan Roccabruna

Evan Roccabruna finished with 121 receiving yards last year, leading the team. Without injuries and a more steady quarterback situation he even stepped under center midseason -- he should be in line for a bigger showing as a junior. Coach Justin Bailey hopes to use him as a play-maker, and a step up from Roccabruna as a locker room leader will go a long way on a Taconic team in need of something to latch onto.

At a Glance: Taconic had a bad 2024 campaign, going 0-9. The Thunder are looking to turn things around this year and have some talented pieces. Tye O'Neil, Kaelen Thomas, Blake Couture and Alex Tardibouno are back in the trenches. They're blocking for Eddie Ferris who should be in line for a big season at running back.

Quarterback is a question mark with the team still working out its Week 1 starter. Make that Week 1A since Taconic is playing in the early week against a power in West Springfield. The team has some young players with potential in Evan Roccabruna, Lily Ferris, Ben Sykes and Brennan Peyre.

They have a difficult schedule, however, and a lot to prove after last season. The run game has potential and if the defense can improve, Taconic can be a tough out for anyone in 2025.