POULSBO — On paper, the North Kitsap Vikings football team looks very similar to last year’s squad.

But on the field, there is one key difference: maturity.

With returning Narrows’ MVP and Vikings’ all-time pass yardage leader Jared Prince, alongside fellow Narrows’ award winners Andy Sturza, Travis Tobin, Jacob Snell and Jordan Henry all coming back for their senior year, the team has more experience under its belt.

But the players aren’t the only ones who’ve changed — so has the team’s long-time skipper, Jerry Parrish.

Parrish, once a purveyor of the traditional running offense, was given the far-throwing Prince and his fast-and-furious entourage when they came to North Kitsap High School two years ago. As a result, he’s had to change his ways, he said.

“I’d run a trap every time,” Parrish commented, referring to the basic run-up-the-middle play. “But our biggest strength this year is the variety of our offense.”

Parrish has had to learn a lot about the team’s new style of play, he admitted.

“I don’t know the passing game as well,” Parrish said. “But it’s getting better every day.”

The team’s offensive repertoire is deep — and the run is certainly not left out, Henry commented.

“We have to use the run to open up the pass,” Henry said.

Parrish was also quick to compliment his team, one that he said includes several “bests” from his coaching career.

“Tobin and Henry are as good a receivers as we’ve had in a long time,” Parrish said. “Sturza’s the best fullback we’ve had in a long time.”

Coach Parrish said he has also been quite impressed with the commander of the offense, Prince, whose hard work in the off-season is sure to pay dividends this year, he said.

“(Prince’s) improvement from a year ago is amazing,” Parrish said.

The offense won’t get anywhere without a good offensive and defensive line, which Parrish said needs some work, but is on the right track.

“The offensive line is starting to mesh but the defense has a long way to go,” Parrish said. “There’s a significant rough edge but nothing that can’t be fixed.”

The team also recognizes as well the importance of defense and the impact it has on the offense.

“Our defense helps our offense,” Tobin said. “If our defense is good, our offense is good.”

Ultimately, the team will see just how ready it is when play opens Friday night at home versus Bainbridge. Then, the effort must come from within, Parrish noted.

“We’ll coach the techniques, but they have to provide the effort,” Parrish said. “But the attitude is really good with these kids.”

Prince said he likes the squad’s chances, stating this year’s team has come together in ways last year’s did not — both on the field and off.

“We have better chemistry. We like each other better,” Prince said. “This team knows what it’s like to compete.”