Haverford High was thought to be a contender in the Central League a year ago. The Fords had a strong senior core, but injuries and inconsistency proved costly to Joe Gallagher‘s squad.

With 6-1, 190-pound senior Eddie Durkin back under center (and healthy), the Fords are one of the teams worth watching in Delco this year.

Durkin missed the first six games last season due to a hand injury suffered during a summer basketball game. When he returned, Durkin showed why he was considered arguably the top QB in the county going into 2011.

In six games, Durkin was completed 46 of 87 pass attempts for 847 yards and eight touchdowns. Using that half season of production as a measuring tool, Durkin should have no problem eclipsing the 2,000-yard barrier. He also projects for 20-25 touchdown season, as well. Durkin can scramble with the best of them, so a 1,000-yard campaign on the ground also isn’t out of the question.

Durkin has a solid supporting cast this fall. Senior tight end/defense end Brandon Waller is back. Waller, an All-Delco track athlete, verbally committed to Richmond. Waller is 6-3, 225 pounds.

Senior receivers Marcus Sydnor (5-10, 170) and Ricky Dempsey (6-1, 175) also are expected to make big contributions on offense for the Fords. Kevin Leyden (6-0, 175), a Penn State commit for lacrosse, could emerge as the team’s leading halfback.

Senior Pete Kirlin (6-0, 190) buoys the offensive and defensive lines.

There’s no doubt about it — Haverford is littered with good athletes. Durkin, though, must stay protected in the pocket for Haverford to end its long postseason drought.

“Our skill players should be on par with any team we play,” Gallagher said. “The key will be how fast our inexperienced linemen develop.”