“It has made a difference. We’re way more physical now than we were last year at this point.”

London has returned 60 per cent of its players in an age bracket (17-22) where football often takes a backseat to life and work. The Beefs brought back its entire defensive line and added two American import linebackers – Clay Ritschard and Wes Schneider – from Wisconsin.

“They’re good,” Snyder said. “Our defence should be a strength and our offence is going to be competitive. We’ve been adding depth and we’re going to keep it simple and be super physical. We will focus on getting the right guys the ball.”

London opens its eight-game season Saturday against Hamilton at 3 p.m. at City Wide Sports Park. The OFC expanded to seven teams with the inclusion of the Sault College Cougars. The top four teams make the playoffs.

The two St. Clair contests – Friday, Aug. 29, at home and Saturday, Sept. 27, on the road – will be measuring sticks. The Beefs will also play host to a showcase fundraiser Friday, Sept. 12, that involves six local high school teams. They’ll celebrate the franchise’s 50th anniversary Saturday, Sept. 20, against the Quinte Skyhawks.

rpyette@postmedia.com