Orrick’s varsity 8-man football season begins with a twist. Originally, the Bearcats were slated to open against a co-op led by Southwest of Livingston County. However, Orrick coach Matt O’Dell stated Southwest won’t have a team this season “due to lack of number of players.” Instead, the Bearcats will face Northland Christian Friday at Simmons Field. Friday will mark the second time the Bearcats and Trailblazers have seen each other in a week. The teams scrimmaged during an Aug. 22 jamboree at Orrick. Here’s a look at the Bearcats, who finished 3-7 in 2024, as they prepare for their 11th-hour foe … Head coach bio: This is O’Dell’s first season at Orrick and as a head coach overall. Assistant coaches: Dean Opoka, Cam McGlothlin, Daniel Callaway, Aaron Rodenberg, Jake Waters. Names, years in school and positions of returning starters – offense: Xavior Gaskins, senior, quarterback; Lucas Walker, senior, running back; Parker Floyd, senior, wide receiver; Trent Windsor, junior, tight…