Kellam Head Football Coach Brian Neas chats following his team's preseason scrimmage vs. Bishop Ireton on Friday, August 19, 2022 in Virginia Beach.

Unofficially, Kellam won the scrimmage 21-6. Offensively, Kellam returns eight starters, headed up by primary ball carriers Gavin Hill and Kolby Stricklin, who sat out the scrimmage. Seven starters are back on defense, led by three-year starter David Wilk at linebacker and strong safety.

"We have the ability to be a balanced offensive with big-play potential. The o-line has five players who played a lot who are a year stronger," Neas commented. "We can attack offenses with multiple fronts, coverages and stunts. Lots of players will get time. We will chase and hunt as a group."

Neas is also excited about a big freshman class with 30 players in the program that are ninth graders, many of whom could see more time on varsity than junior varsity.

While the Knights went just 3-7 overall in the first season with Neas at the helm, there is plenty of excitement and optimism for the program as it tries to earn their playoff appearance since 2018 and postseason victory since 2008.

Kellam opens up the 2022 season at home on August 26th against city rival First Colonial, who they've defeated nine straight times.