Back-to-back losing seasons have Lawrence High football fans hoping for better days ahead.

How far ahead is the question.

The Lions’ tradition-rich program hasn’t had three losing seasons in a row since 1972-74 and, on paper, the 2009 season could be another tough one.

“It’s going to be a struggle,” veteran coach Dirk Wedd said. “We knew we were in a two- or three-year cycle. You could see it coming in the junior highs.”

Lawrence was a powerhouse in 2005, finishing with a 10-2 record, but the Lions slipped to 6-5 in ’06. Then Lawrence went 3-6 in ’07 and failed to make the Class 6A state playoffs.

This year’s edition returned to the playoffs, but lost in the first round to Blue Valley and ended with a 4-6 record.

“We had some limitations,” Wedd said, “but we played our best football at the end of the season, and that’s what you strive for.”

Nevertheless, the Lions were not competitive against the upper-echelon teams in the Sunflower League, and a rapid return to that level may be expecting too much.

“Around here they expect winning seasons,” Wedd said, “and we need to get back to Lawrence High’s winning ways. But it’ll be tough.”

For starters, Wedd has to replace the bulk of his skill players — notably running backs Clifton Sims and Jake Green, and first-team All-Sunflower League wide receiver Aaron Rea.

Sims led the Lions in rushing with 915 yards and in touchdowns with eight. Green wasn’t far behind with 854 yards and 6 TDs. Rea caught 26 passes for 470 yards and 4 TDs.

Junior Tyrae Jenkins could blossom, however, after rushing for 224 yards in limited duty. Jenkins did not play football last year.

“We’re not sure how good he can be,” Wedd said, “after him not playing as a sophomore.”

Wedd also has to find a replacement for quarterback Clint Pinnick, a two-year starter.

“Quarterback is a huge question mark,” Wedd said.

Junior Chase Billings and soph Chris Gaston are the leading candidates.

Among the key returnees will be linemen Jay Baker and Ben Muiller, both juniors, and sophomore linebacker Darren Sorem. Sorem was the Lions’ leading tackler.

“We have three or four sophomores who have a chance to grow up and contribute next year,” Wedd said.