Football Tab 2012

HIGH SCHOOL PREVIEWS

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL

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Football Journal 2012

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

TEAM INDEX

DAILY JOURNAL

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Aberdeen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Alcorn Central . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Amory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Baldwyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Belmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Benton County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Biggersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Booneville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Bruce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Calhoun Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Calhoun City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Corinth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 East Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 East Webster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Falkner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Hamilton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Hatley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Holly Springs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Houlka . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 H.W. Byers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Itawamba AHS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Kossuth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Lafayette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Mantachie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Marshall Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Mooreville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Nettleton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 New Albany . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 New Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Oak Hill Academy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 North Pontotoc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Okolona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Oxford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Pontotoc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Potts Camp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Ripley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Saltillo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Shannon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Smithville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 South Pontotoc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Starkville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Starkville Academy . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Thrasher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Tishomingo County . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Tupelo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Tupelo Christian Prep . . . . . . . . . . 46 Vardaman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Walnut . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 West Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL

Are you ready for some football? We are!

One of the best things about this time of year for high school football fans is that everyone is undefeated.

“This could be the year,” fans can tell each other, even if their team only won once or twice last season.

After all, if Thrasher can go from 1-9 in 2010 to a winning season in 2011, why can’t your team?

One of the things I like best about our annual Football Journal preview edition is that every team in our far-flung region gets its due.

evitably fade a bit into the background. It happens.

But today, in the 2012 Football Journal, Preseason rankings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 every team gets its time in the spotlight – Seven players to see . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 whether it’s a Lafayette team that went 16-0 State champions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 or a Houlka team that went 1-10. Here Football divisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 you’ll find the facts and figures and the 2011 final region standings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 names – always, lots of names of players we think can make a difference this fall.

As the season goes along, it’s inevitable We do this research so we’ll be ready for that some teams are going to win more and kickoff time. It’s a bonus that we can put thus get more attention. this fine product into your hands as a result.

John L. Pitts Some teams will lose more and will in|

ALSO INSIDE

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Football Journal 2012

“We Come Highly Wreck-A-Mended”

Insurance Claims Welcome

Mike Crump - owner 1457 CLIFF GOOKIN BLVD. • TUPELO • 844-7938

SPORTS EDITOR: John L. Pitts INSIDE PAGE DESIGN: Robbie Robertson (individual team pages from a concept by Brad Locke) STAFF HIGH SCHOOL WRITERS: Brandon Speck, Gene Phelps EDITING: John L. Pitts, Robbie Robertson and other members of the Journal staff WRITING: Daily Journal and Journal Publishing staff writers and special contributors PHOTOS: Daily Journal and Journal Publishing staff photographers and special contributors

WE NEED YOUR HELP ON FRIDAYS

Coaches in the Journal circulation area, please call in your scores promptly on game nights.

We can’t be at every game, so we must rely on coaches and scorekeepers to call the Journal (678-1601) as soon as possible after games are complete. If you’re on the road outside the area, call toll-free (1-800-270-2612, ext. 601).

Be prepared to give scoring information, including score by quarters, names of all scoring players – on both teams – and the distance and type of each scoring play.

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL

Pallbearers and members of the New Albany football team leave the church after the funeral service for Amanda Price, the wife of head football coach Ron Price.

Football takes on a different tone for Price, Bulldogs

L

ife was good for Ron Price last August. He had a beautiful, supportive wife, Amanda. He had a loving daughter, 3-year-old Molly Addison, a daddy’s girl.

He had a great job, head football coach at New Albany High School. His 2010 band of Bulldogs finished 13-1, falling in the state quarterfinals to eventual champion Lafayette.

“I felt like I had everything in life a man could want, except a state championship,” Price said.

“I thought winning a state championship GENE would give me PHELPS everything I was looking for in life.”

His perspective changed dramatically and tragically Dec. 5, 2011, when a home intruder shot and killed Amanda and wounded him.

In an instant, the football coach who thought he nearly had it all, felt like all had been lost.

“Winning a state championship would be special, but it wouldn’t fulfill my life,” Price said. “Football is still important, but I want family, friends and relationships to be more important.”

As the kickoff for New Albany’s 2012 season nears (Friday night against Rip-

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“I wished I had given her my best,” he said, looking back. “I feel like I gave her the leftovers a lot of times.”

ON THE COVER It didn’t matter to Amanda. She cherNew Albany’s football team will honor Amanda ished her role as the coach’s wife. She alPrice, the slain wife of Bulldogs head coach Ron ways knew the right thing to do. That’s the Price, by wearing a purple ribbon sticker on the one trait the coach loved most about her. backs of their helmets this season. Purple was When a player had a birthday that in Amanda’s favorite color. someway was overlooked, she would Ron Price wanted to keep the tribute low-pro- bake cupcakes. file because, “Amanda would have wanted it that When a player needed help with acaway.” He added, “Our players will know it’s (the demics, she was there. sticker) there.”

When the coach needed a shoulder to lean on, some advice or even a prayer, she was there. ley) three of the things Price holds so “She was a special coach’s wife,” Ron dear – Molly Addison, the Bulldogs and Price said. “She was a coordinator. She his faith – remain significant in his life. did all those little things that nobody Still, New Albany’s enthusiastic 5-foot-3 notices, but our players did.” cheerleader – Amanda Price – won’t be For that reason, the Bulldogs have there, standing on the track outside the dedicated this season to Amanda. They fieldhouse where she saluted and com- will wear purple (her favorite color) ribforted the football team, win or lose. bon stickers on the backs of their ma“It’s going to be tough,” Ron Price roon helmets. Purple ribbons will also said, tears rolling down his cheeks. “She be painted on the field. was my best friend, my No. 1 fan. I’ll “She was willing to fight for them and miss her being there in the good times they are willing to fight for her,” Price and bad times. She always knew the said of his players. “I told them if we are right things to say. going to dedicate this season to her, we “She was a great wife, a great supare going to do it the right way. porter. She let me be the football coach “We are going to practice, we are at New Albany. She allowed me to do my going to play ... no joking around. That’s job.” what she would expect. Our kids have stepped up to that challenge. Hopefully, SHE WAS ALWAYS THERE this will be a season Amanda would be Ron Price was always there, 100 perproud of.” cent, for his football team ... with Life is slowly returning to normal – if Amanda’s encouragement. there is such a thing anymore – for Ron

INSIDER

DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL

Molly Addison holds her dad Ron’s hand as they walk in the Amanda Price Memorial 5K Run/Walk earlier this year.

Price as the 2012 kickoff nears. However, he knows no football season will ever be complete without his assistant head coach there beside him.

“It scares me to death to have to face the season without Amanda,” he said.

Gene Phelps is senior sports writer for the Daily Journal. He can be reached at gene.phelps@journalinc.com

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Seven players you have to see in 2012 Here are seven players we think fans should make time to see this season.

From an excitement factor to a talent factor, colleges are taking notice and we think you should too.

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SEVEN MUST-SEE GAMES

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DARIO ROBINSON

SCHOOL: Amory HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5-10, 166 CLASS: Senior WEARS: No. 1 These are seven games we think are worth ROSS SMITH PLAYS: WR the price of admission this season: SCHOOL: Booneville HEARING FROM: IlliHEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6-6, nois, Middle Tennessee, AlRIPLEY AT NEW ALBANY 305 corn State, Louisiana Tech, AUG. 17 CLASS: Senior South Alabama, Tennessee Robinson Emotional night for New Albany coach Ron WEARS: No. 79 Martin Price and his Bulldogs in his first game since his PLAYS: LT WHY HE’S WORTH WATCHING: “The first wife Amanda’s death.

HEARING FROM: Missisthing is Dario is a hard-working kid. He’s got sippi State, Ole Miss, good speed, great hands and has the ability to WEST POINT AT SOUTH PANOLA Southern Miss, Vanderbilt change directions quickly. If the ball is in the air, Smith AUG. 18 WHY HE’S WORTH he owns it. He has the idea that he’s going to Get there early. Huge crowd last year at West catch every one that comes to him. That makes WATCHING: “He has good, Point. quick feet. He’s a good leader, has very long the kid hard to cover when he’s got all the range and his work ethic is very good. He physical tools and mentally he’s got the desire LAFAYETTE AT OXFORD picked up a lot of strength, jumped nearly 80 to say ‘The ball’s mine.’” – Amory coach Trent AUG. 30 pounds this winter on his bench. He worked reHammond Thursday night regional Fox telecast for ally hard in the weightroom. He’s our anchor and we’re going to try to spot play him some on Crosstown Classic as part of C Spire “Bright D.K. BUFORD defense but he’s definitely going to have to help Lights” series.

SCHOOL: Lafayette carry the load on offense.” – Booneville coach HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5-11, VARDAMAN AT FALKNER Mike Mattox 185 SEPT. 6 CLASS: Junior Thursday night division opener for what could DUKE UPSHAW WEARS: No. 2 be best two teams in 1-1A. SCHOOL: Baldwyn PLAYS: RB, CB HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5-11, HEARING FROM: Ole SHANNON AT TUPELO 170 Miss, Mississippi State SEPT. 7 CLASS: Freshman WHY HE’S WORTH Buford Lee County battle always draws a large WEARS: No. 2 WATCHING: “His speed. crowd.

PLAYS: RB/QB/S He’s just so explosive, HEARING FROM: With breakaway speed. We’ll try to throw to him BALDWYN AT BRUCE continued progression, it some.” – Lafayette coach Eric Robertson OCT. 12 won’t be long, even for a Upshaw Key game in a loaded Division 1-2A. freshman.

CHRIS JONES WHY HE’S WORTH SCHOOL: Houston CORINTH AT SHANNON WATCHING: “You see all kinds of athletes and HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6-7, OCT. 26 I’ve coached a lot of them. People say someone 270 Final Division 1-4A game could have big imhas that ‘it’ factor. But being the age he is, he CLASS: Senior has that ‘it’ factor. He doesn’t play like a fresh- plications.

WEARS: No. 98 Brandon Speck, Gene Phelps man. He didn’t play like an eighth grader last PLAYS: DE year. Being in the system, you’re always going HEARING FROM: Missisto gain experience. We’re asking him do a little sippi State commit bit more and he’s bought in. He understands WHY HE’S WORTH Jones what’s going on and what he’s got to do and watching it. I think that’s what draws people, WATCHING: “He’s an aththe game is going to slow down to him.” – plus he’s a heck of an athlete and people love letic guy. He has natural Baldwyn coach Michael Gray to watch great athletes.” – Itawamba AHS ability, size and speed and agility. He’s competicoach Toby Collums tive, aggressive and coming after you. He has ASHTON SHUMPERT really stepped up his leadership on this team, SCHOOL: Itawamba AHS CHICO HARRISON taking control and a lot of kids are following beHEIGHT/WEIGHT: 6-2, SCHOOL: Aberdeen hind him.” – Houston coach William Cook Brandon Speck, Gene Phelps 205 HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5-11, CLASS: Senior 195 WEARS: No. 2 CLASS: Junior PLAYS: ATH, DB WEARS: No. 8 HEARING FROM: AlPLAYS: RB, LB, S abama, Georgia, Mississippi HEARING FROM: Missed State, Ole Miss, Oklahoma sophomore season but Shumpert State, Vanderbilt breakout year should speed Harrison WHY HE’S WORTH the process.

WATCHING: “Obviously his talent level goes WHY HE’S WORTH without saying and I think his passion for the WATCHING: “He’s a combination of power and game. Any time the ball is snapped on offense speed. He can run over you or outrun you. You or defense, you can tell he’s having fun on the don’t see that much anymore. You see the field. Anytime you watch somebody who’s hav- power guy or the quick guy. He can do both.” – ing fun or has great passion, people enjoy Aberdeen coach Mark Bray

CHARLES A. SMITH | SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

QB Gabe Myles led Starkville to the Class 5A title game where they lost to Picayune. Coach Jamie Mitchell said at the beginning of last season, he didn’t expect to make it to Jackson. It was this year’s squad that Mitchell thought could make a title run. |

PRESEASON RANKINGS

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CLASS 6A/5A

1. Starkville: Mississippi State commit QB Gabe Myles leads the 5A state runner-up.

2. West Point: Lost in second round at Starkville.

3. Tupelo: Lost Ashton Shumpert, who would have played all over the field.

CLASS 4A/3A

1. Lafayette: Now without QB Jeremy Liggins, the ’Dores haven’t lost a regularseason game since Sept. 11, 2009.

2. Aberdeen: DE Channing Ward now at Ole Miss, but the Bulldogs look loaded.

3. New Albany: Hosts division opponent Lafayette Oct. 12.

4. Itawamba: Ashton Shumpert’s impact highly anticipated.

5. Amory: Lost to Lafayette in North 4A finals. Lost record-setting QB Forest Williams.

CLASS 2A/1A

1. Bruce: Trojans went 10-3, lost to 2A champ West Bolivar in second round.

2. Baldwyn: QB play will determine the Bearcats’ season.

3. Calhoun City: Beat Bruce last season.

Finished 13-2, lost in North finals.

4. Falkner: Closed regular season with seven straight wins.

5. Vardaman: Lost in 1A North finals, play Falkner and Smithville back-to-back 1-1A games.

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Bulldogs have plenty of weapons, experience

BY BRANDON SPECK

Bray

ABERDEEN

BULLDOGS FAST FACTS

Division: 2-3A 2011 record: 7-6, 4-1 division (Lost in second round of playoffs) Coach: Mark Bray (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Brandon Hodges, Sr., OL/DL Agile 6-5, 276-pound senior. “He’s athletic, got great feet. We’re expecting big things out of him,” says coach Mark Bray.

Justin Lucas, Sr., LB/FB 6-0, 230-pound senior is the lone returning linebacker.

Chico Harrison, Jr., RB 5-11, 195 pound junior will be key for a team without a consistent back last season.

OFFENSE

Josh Williams is a sophomore but will start his second season at quarterAberdeen had gotten accusback. Tackles Brandon Hodges and tomed to playing for the Class Bobby Ward return. Tavoris Eckford and 3A state championship.

Devonta Walker opened practice at the The Bulldogs went to two guard spots with Jahrel Wilson at censtraight before losing to eventual ter, both tackles and Eckford returning champion Charleston in the sec- starters. Nine are back on offense. ond round of the playoffs last “The experience has made a big difseason. ference and a lot are springing over and This season, two key pieces playing defense,” Bray said. that helped the Bulldogs out of The Bulldogs struggled to find a back the Class 3A cellar are gone. last season. Bray doesn’t intend on that Channing Ward is at Ole Miss happening this season. Junior Chico C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL and Chris Duncan is now the Harrison is the tentative starter at runJosh Williams will return at quarformer coach. ning back going into camp with Justin terback for the Bulldogs.

Nine starters are back on ofLucas, Tyler Fields, Tamarkus Payne, fense for first-year head coach Nic Hodges, Rodarius Smith and more Mark Bray. in the mix. fensive linemen will play on both lines.

“Last year, we were so young Aaron McMillian, Sammie Burroughs, Joining Lucas at linebacker are Mims on offense,” Bray said. “We’ve Kenric McCoy and Jeremy Brandon are and Rodarius Smith at Sam. got everybody back and they’re the top four receivers.

“No doubt losing Channing is going a year older.” to hurt. But now those players know Bray was the offensive coordiDEFENSE they have to step up and do things,” nator last season and is the head Only three return on defense, Lucas Bray said. coach now for a school that and two safeties Burroughs and Payne. spent the summer caught up in Tentative defensive starters were Theo SPECIAL TEAMS the state takeover of the district Boyd, Walker, Wilson and Hodges and The Bulldogs didn’t have a kicker on and the possibility of not even Zavia Forshee. Trey Mims and Smith the roster last season. It was an early having a season. will join Lucas at linebacker. Seven ofpractice priority this season.

DAILY JOURNAL

CKS! U L D TEAM GOO ALL TO

Good Luck To All Monroe County Teams

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Columbus 7:30 at Shannon 7:30 Amory 7:30 Noxubee County 7:30 at West Bolivar 7:30 Louisville 7:30 at Mantachie* 7:00 Nettleton* 7:00 at Mooreville* 7:00 Water Valley* 7:00 at South Pontotoc* 7:00 *–Division 2-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

Senior Justin Lucas played a lot at fullback last season but will play less this year to focus of his linebacker spot ...

Aberdeen faces five larger schools in its six non-division games ... Junior WR Sammie Burroughs’ dad, Sammie, who played four NFL seasons with the Dolphins and Colts, is the Bulldogs’ defensive coordinator ... Bray coached for 23 years at Vardaman and led the Rams to four North title games.

Good Luck To All Football Teams 50185 Old Hwy. 25 Aberdeen, MS 39730

369-9803

Nettleton • Amory • Aberdeen

931 True Temple Circle Amory, MS 38821 662-256-5605

“Tenn-Tom’s Best Kept Secret”

Marina Road Package Store 369-8287

ORDER YOUR TRAYS ONLINE: www.foodgiant.com Be sure to check for new recipes on our website!

Good Luck All Schools

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7 LOCATIONS! • Fulton • Baldwyn • Saltillo • Aberdeen • Amory • Columbus • Ripley

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Boren happy to be back home with Bears as the primary threat at running back.

A four-man rotation at wide receiver will have Luke Kiddy, Jason Gurley, Ethan Spears and Adam Carter all seeing action.

“They’re not slow and they’re not fast, but they get the job done and work hard at it,” Boren said of his receiving core.

Cody Killough and Jacob McCallister look to split time at tight end.

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

When an opportunity presented itself to come back home, Jeff Boren simply couldn’t pass it up.

After spending last season as Boren the head coach at Parrish, Ala., Boren accepted the same position at Alcorn Central during the offseason. He said he’s excited to be back in the area and leading a team that he grew up FAST FACTS watching.

Division: 1-3A “I watched my first football 2011 record: 1-10, 0-5 division (no game when I was 3 or 4 years old playoffs) right here in these bleachers,” Coach: Jeff Boren (1st year) Boren said in a recent interview on campus. “It’s somewhere I’ve PLAYERS TO WATCH always said if I got a chance I’d Josh Berry, Jr., QB/DB like to go try to build a program Split time at quarterback as a sopho- and be successful there.” more, completing 21 passes for The Golden Bears have lost 28 222 yards. of their last 29 games, but Boren Dylan Bowden, Jr., OL/DL is looking forward to the chal300-plus pound lineman is a silent lenge of changing that. leader on the field.

“We’re not gonna go out there Adam Carter, Jr., WR/DB and lay down for anybody,” he All-around good athlete, one of four said. “We’re going to go out and players who will see time at wide compete and we fully intend to receiver.

ALCORN CENTRAL

GOLDEN BEARS

DEFENSE

Most players will see action on both sides of the ball this season for Alcorn Central. Thompson is expected to lead the line-backing core when not on ofJunior QB Josh Berry split time fense. at the position last season.

Boren expects good things out of sophomore Denver Turner on the line as be in every ballgame with a well as juniors Austin Roberts and Dylan chance to win in the fourth Bowden. quarter.”

OFFENSE

Josh Berry, at quarterback, leads a team built around underclassmen. The junior has attended Manning camps in the past and will be the team’s leader.

Ryan Thompson, one of six seniors on the team, joins Berry in the backfield

SPECIAL TEAMS

Spears has worked hard on his punting during the offseason and will get the nod in that position.

While Boren has three players competing as place-kickers, the job of kick returner is safely in the hands of Kiddy and Gurley.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Biggersville 7:30 Tishomingo County 7:30 at Walnut 7:30 at Mooreville 7:30 at Hatley 7:30 Corinth 7:30 at Booneville* 7:30 Holly Springs* 7:00 at Belmont* 7:00 Kossuth* 7:00 at Ripley* 7:00 *–Division 1-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

Jeff Boren is the third head football coach at Alcorn Central in three years. Jim McCay, who took over for Brian White, resigned in the spring after one season on the job. …

Before leaving the area last season, Boren served as an assistant coach at Kossuth and Tishomingo County. …

Boren’s message to the team since taking over has been to compete. “Not just in ballgames, but competing everyday,” he said.

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Panthers will have lots of targets on offense

BY MELISSA MEADOR MONROE JOURNAL

Replacing the state’s top passer, Forest Williams, isn’t going to be an easy job for Hammond Amory coach Trent Hammond and his staff, but his replacement is going to find plenty of targets to hit.

The Panthers return the five leading receivers in the state FAST FACTS from last season, led by highly Division: 1-4A touted wideout Dario Robinson.

2011 record: 11-4, 4-1 division (Lost “A guy for us may be last on our in North finals) chart for catches, but he’s better Coach: Trent Hammond (3rd year) than everybody else in the state of Mississippi,” said Hammond, PLAYERS TO WATCH whose team lost in the North fiDario Robinson, Sr., WR nals to 4A champ Lafayette.

Senior racked up 2,191 receiving Hammond said losing yards and caught 21 of Forest Williams’ presence on the field Williams’ 55 TDs last season. was huge for Amory, but that he Hayden Williams, Sr., ILB feels this year’s seniors have all Led the Panthers with 69 tackles last stepped up as leaders. season.

“We can’t have anybody come Jaylon Fair, Sr., WR/DB out here and be Forest Another one of the five returning Williams,” he said. “They have to wide receivers, described as the come out here and be themvocal leader of the team by coach selves and lead us in a way that Trent Hammond. they can.”

AMORY

PANTHERS

learn in two days,” Hammond said.

Greg Hadley is the only loss on the offensive line which returns starters Javontae Randle and Deonte Ivory.

DEFENSE

Hayden Williams, who Hammond calls the leader on defense, is the only returning linebacker from a group that lost Zach Khima and Jeremy Roberts.

“Hayden is a huge leader on our team,” Hammond said. “He’s not a big yeller and screamer either but he leads by example. We don’t have the guy so DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL to speak that jumps up and down and Amory’s Dario Robinson is one leads that way, but we have a great of the state’s top returning wide group of guys that get in here and do receivers. exactly what they’re supposed to.”

Braxton Polk and Dee Evans return OFFENSE on the secondary.

Robinson leads a five-man core of Patrick Schoolar, who was at rival senior receivers that Hammond credits Aberdeen, replaces Ty Trahan as defenas the anchor of the team, which also sive coordinator. includes Jaylon Fair, Abaris Woodrick, Tanner Poole and Devin McIntosh.

SPECIAL TEAMS Sophomore Jon David Poss and Cole Replacing kicker Josh Tomlin is a priRobinson, a transfer, are neck-in-neck as ority for Amory in practice. Poole, who Williams’ replacement at quarterback. averaged 40 yards a punt last season, “If I had to say one right now, I’d say returns, and Robinson will handle punt Jon David, just because we’re not an return duties. Robinson, Polk and Evans offense that a guy can just step in and will all be deep on kickoff returns.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Mooreville 7:30 at Nettleton 7:30 at Aberdeen 7:30 New Albany 7:30 Okolona 7:30 at Calhoun City 7:30 at Tishomingo Co.* 7:30 Corinth* 7:00 at Shannon* 7:00 Itawamba AHS* 7:00 Pontotoc* 7:00 *–Division 1-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

Senior WR Dario Robinson already has six college scholarship offers (Illinois, South Alabama, Middle Tennessee, UT Martin, Arkansas State, Alcorn State) ... Amory’s only defeat at home last season was a hardfought 14-7 loss to rival Aberdeen ... Amory coach Trent Hammond credits the work ethic of his 21 seniors as the biggest positive in fall practice so far ... Sophomore QB Jon David Poss started two games last season when Forest Williams was injured.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Bearcats going ‘against the grain’ on offense Gates at two-back and Upshaw back at the three.

At wide receiver, Will Moore and Clayton Gray start on each side.

BY BRANDON SPECK DAILY JOURNAL

The Baldwyn Bearcats spent the first couple of hours of their season-opening practice in front of a projector screen.

Playing: the 2008 state championship win against Forest. No one is left from that team but Baldwyn coach Michael Gray wants this group to know what a title team looks like.

For the former Baldwyn quarterback, it starts there.

“We need a little more consistency at quarterback. That’s where it starts,” Gray said.

Junior Corbin Scott and freshman phenom Duke Upshaw will be a duo under center but neither have varsity experience at the position.

Gray said Scott will start the first game but Upshaw will get a lot of snaps as well.

DEFENSE

The Bearcats return seven and will have to fill the shoes of graduated lineman Parrish Huddleston.

“We’ve got to get some stability at inside linebacker,” Gray said. “We’ve just got to keep repping.”

Patterson and Antonio Price are in there. Patterson played there last year.

In the secondary, Boose and Laquintez THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL Upshaw will be at the corners. Duke Freshman Duke Upshaw gives Upshaw will move to safety. Gates and the Bearcats a versatile player on three-year starter Richey are at defenboth sides of the football. sive end and Diquan Agnew, Edge, Eddie McGee, Jordan Gunn and “lots of Price will be another guard, with junior bodies” will see time inside.

Shaquille Shinault at the other tackle spot. Coaches are hoping to use up to SPECIAL TEAMS nine players on the line.

Baldwyn lost its punter, kicker and “We’re trying to figure out what’s placekicker. At the start of practice, going to work best,” Gray said. “We’re Nickey Long will punt. Nathan Winstead kind of going against the grain of what and Gates are both considered for kickOFFENSE we normally do. We’re going to stay in offs. Zachary Winstead will vie for the Up front, three seniors come back, the gun a lot.” extra point role. All of the return men tackle Reggie Richey, center Sam Griffin A possible six-man backfield returns are back, including Duke Upshaw and and guard Cody Edge. Senior Antonio Bradley Boose at fullback, Devonta Boose.

Gray

BALDWYN

BEARCATS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-2A 2011 record: 5-7, 3-2 division (Lost 1st round of state playoffs) Coach: Michael Gray (4th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Devonta Gates, Jr., RB/DE/LB As a 6-0, 240-pound junior, rushed for 267 yards and 2 TDs; had 35 tackles.

Duke Upshaw, Fr., QB/RB/S The freshman (5-11, 170) had a team-high 821 yards and scored 11 TDs as an eighth grader.

Cody Edge, Sr., OL/DL Measures 5-10, 250, one of three returning to the offensive line.

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SCOUTING REPORT

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The Bearcats’ biggest lack of depth is at linebacker ... RB Bradley Boose missed the first two games last season with a knee injury.

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8F

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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9F

Cardinals trying to get over the hump has ability to throw the football,” Moody said. “We graduated a lot of the speed we had. Colin has to be able to get the ball out to the edge.”

Leading rusher Jordan Powell graduated after a team-high 11 touchdowns.

BY BRANDON SPECK DAILY JOURNAL

Moody

BELMONT

CARDINALS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-3A 2011 record: 5-6, 2-3 division (Lost 1st round of state playoffs) Coach: Kerry Moody (10th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Colin Harris, Sr., QB/C Coach says the 6-1, 165-pounder makes good decisions and throws well under pressure.

Alexander Fancher, Sr., FB/DE The 5-10, 195-pound runner had 596 yards and seven TDs on a teamhigh 112 carries last season.

Chandler Higginbottom, So., RB/LB The 5-10, 200-pounder led the team in tackles last season.

Belmont isn’t satisfied with close. The Cardinals were a touchdown away in a pair of Division 1-3A losses last season, one a 6-0 loss on a kick return at Booneville.

“Our focus right now is getting ourselves ready for the pre-region games,” coach Kerry Moody said. “We’ve got some kids who know how close we were and maybe a play here or there makes a difference.”

Another difference can be made by avoiding the injury bug that bit two broken legs last season.

OFFENSE

Senior Colin Harris returns as a second-year starter at quarterback with Stephen Moore, Billy Nunley and Case Haney returning up front. Tight end Bryan Malone stepped in as a freshman due to injury last season and is back at the position as a sophomore.

Sophomore Luke Alexander will start at one receiver spot. Senior Alexander

DEFENSE

The Cardinals pose a 50-base defense, with returning inside linebackers Moore and Chandler Higginbottom, the top two tacklers last season. On the defensive front, Fancher will line up at defensive end. Moody will be replacing two spots but there is experience there with Nunley. Jay Solomon, who will also play some offensive tackle will be asked to anchor the defensive line as a senior.

Harris and Pat Gilley will be on the corners, Alexander at one of the safety BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL spots.

Senior Colin Harris is back for his “We’ve got some experience back, a second year under center for the good core,” Moody said. “We’re going Cardinals. to have to play smart.”

Fancher will start at one running back spot with the other to be determined during preseason practice between a handful of players.

“We’re still a Wing-T base but Colin

Go Cardinals! from

SCHEDULE

Open at Mantachie 7:30 at Tishomingo Co. 7:30 at Baldwyn 7:30 Mooreville 7:30 Open Kossuth* 7:30 at Ripley* 7:00 Alcorn Central* 7:00 at Holly Springs* 7:00 Booneville* 7:00 *–Division 1-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

Belmont is playing a ninegame schedule after a scheduling conflict canceled a game against Red Bay, Ala. ... The Cardinals lost two seniors to broken legs during back-toback games last season ... Luke Alexander led the team in interceptions as a freshman last season ... First home game isn’t until Sept. 14 against Mooreville.

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Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Rice looking forward to challenge with Bucs place at the end of this year.

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Rice

BENTON COUNTY

BUCCANEERS FAST FACTS

Division: Independent 2011 record: 1-9 Coach: Eric Rice (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tireace Williams, Sr., LB The emotional leader of the team, can be used at multiple positions.

Justin Washington, Jr., DE Blue-collar player is a silent worker and leader.

Hunter Huff, Fr., DT Huge plug in the middle of the Buccaneers’ defensive line.

Eric Rice was worried about how well kids from two separate schools would get along on one team when he accepted the head coaching position at Benton County this past offseason.

Turns out Rice, who takes over the co-op football program that comprises of students from both Ashland High and Hickory Flat, had no need for concerns in the first place.

“When I got here, I found out they get along fine,” he said.

“They’re a great group of kids that don’t have any issues as far as getting along.”

Rice inherits the second-year football program from Jimmy Risen, who resigned after serving as head coach in the team’s first year, and is looking forward to the challenge of building a foundation for years to come.

“We have young kids that are interested and therefore we have a chance to teach them the game and teach them how to

OFFENSE

GENE PHELPS | DAILY JOURNAL

Assistant Brian Lester works with a player during practice. play where they can have that growing room from year to year,” said Rice.

With a lot of athleticism on the roster, Rice believes his team can compete this season in a mixed varsity and junior varsity schedule.

It’s Rice’s hope that the Buccaneers can be placed inside a division during the next reclassification, which will take

Some players, like Demarcus Fifer, will be playing their positions for the first time. He’ll be behind center after playing fullback during the program’s inaugural year.

Richard Brooks and Trevagus Peterson are the top receiving options for Fifer.

The Buccaneers will use a three-back system involving Anthony Kimbrough, Terreaz Mason and Caleb Smith.

Blocking up front for the trio will be Alwontoe Smith, Bobby Cox, Zack Guelker and Alex Williams.

DEFENSE

A mostly young team will bolster two seniors at linebacker in Antonio Thompson and Smith.

Justin Washington and Hunter Huff are in charge of holding together the defensive line while Justin Martin roams the field at free safety.

SPECIAL TEAMS

One of Rice’s biggest concerns in preseason practice was finding a punter and placekicker before the first game.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 1 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Tishomingo Co. 7:30 Open at Falkner 7:30 at Thrasher 7:30 Open 7:30 at North Panola 7:30 at East Union (JV) 7:30 at Byhalia (JV) 7:00 at Wheeler 7:00 at Potts Camp 7:00 at Houlka 7:00 *–Independent

SCOUTING REPORT

New head coach Eric Rice comes to Benton County from South Panola, where he was the tight ends coach last season. Before that, Rice had coaching stops at North Panola and Lafayette. … Rice has assembled a coaching staff with Division I flavor. Defensive coordinator Brian Lester played at Ole Miss while LB/QB coach Chip Martin was a center at UT-Martin. … Of the 24 players on the team, 14 represent Ashland High, while 10 hail from Hickory Flat.

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10F

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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11F

Biggersville returns talent, experience

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Lawson

BIGGERSVILLE

LIONS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 3-8, 2-7 division (no playoffs) Coach: Ronnie Lawson (10th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Blake Stacy, Sr., QB/DB Three-year starter at quarterback who accounted for nearly half of the Lions’ offense as a junior.

Darious Carroll, Sr., RB/DB Strong runner who carried the ball more than 100 times last season.

Darion Barnett, Jr., RB/DB A starting receiver as a sophomore, he should make more of an impact in the backfield this year.

Ronnie Lawson’s 10th season as head coach of the Biggersville Lions offers the possibility of being one of the best the school has had recently.

Eight seniors will comprise the largest group of upperclassmen Lawson has coached in his tenure. Each of them starts in a lineup that brings a wealth of talent to the table.

“Potential-wise, this may be the best starting 11 that we’ve had in quite a while,” Lawson said. “They’ve gotten bigger and stronger and have another year of experience.”

Biggersville lacks seasoned backups behind those starters, however, which is a troubling thought for Lawson.

“There’s no depth right now,” he said. “We’re going to have to be in real good shape and work with some of the younger ones.”

OFFENSE

Lawson considers the strength of his

rushing for nearly 400 more last season.

“If he’s got somebody to throw, he can put it where it needs to be,” Lawson said. “The problem with that is we don’t have enough receivers.”

Senior Terrell Harvell and junior Peyton Nash will combat that problem and look to haul in Stacy’s passes.

Hunter Lawson, Mark Hamlin, Hunter Lambert and Brooks Bishop lead a mostly experienced offensive line. But Lawson points to newcomers Matt Hamlin and Wesley Shadburn as keys to how well the line will perform.

Blake Stacy threw for more than DEFENSE 1,000 yards and ran for another With their depth issues, Lawson ex400 for the Lions last season. pects his linemen to play on both sides of the ball. offense to be the backfield, where reKevin Bollig, a hard-nosed player turning starters hold all three positions. according to Lawson, will lead the deDarious Carroll and Darion Barnett fense at linebacker. give Biggersville a one-two punch at Carroll, Barnett and Stacy will make running back. Carroll was the team’s defensive back the strongest potential leading rusher as a junior with 549 position on defense. yards.

Blake Stacy enters his third year as SPECIAL TEAMS the starting quarterback for the Lions.

Stacy will punt and take his long The senior is a dual threat after throw- snaps from Bishop. The Lions were still ing for more than 1,000 yards and looking for a placekicker.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 6 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

at Alcorn Central 7:30 Open East Union* 7:30 at Houlka* 7:30 Tupelo Christian* 7:30 at Thrasher* 7:30 Falkner* 7:30 at Smithville* 7:00 Vardaman* 7:00 Open Coldwater* 7:00 Byers* 7:00 *–Division 1-1A

SCOUTING REPORT

By the numbers, the Lions return seven starters on offense and eight defensively. …

Biggersville will run the pistol formation offense and try to balance their plays 60/40 runto-pass. … The Lions have little margin for error on their schedule, closing their season with nine straight division games beginning in Week 4.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Blue Devils get a taste of iron-man football Working with Rogers in the backfield are Andrew Lambert, Daryl Barefield and Daniel Calvery.

At wide receiver, two seniors in Jazz Prather and Layne Michael return.

“We’ve got to keep Rogers healthy,” Mattox said. “We’ve got high hopes for him.”

BY BRANDON SPECK DAILY JOURNAL

Mattox

BOONEVILLE

BLUE DEVILS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-3A 2011 record: 8-4, 4-1 division (lost first round state playoffs) Coach: Mike Mattox (3rd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Ross Smith, Sr., OL Flying under the radar but has quick feet according to coaches and is an instant qualifier academically.

Zeus Rogers, So., TB Rushed for 315 yards on 62 carries as a freshman.

Jordan Miller, Sr., LB Team-high 109 tackles as a junior, averaging 9.1 per game.

Booneville’s roster isn’t as deep as many Class 3A schools, nor as deep as it has been in the past, but coach Mike Mattox says the players on the roster make up for the numbers.

“They’ve got a lot of potential.

We could be better than we were last year,” Mattox said. “We could not be as good. I know I’m being gray, but that’s the truth.

We’re very talented, but not very deep.”

Six guys may have to go both ways for the Blue Devils, who went 8-4 last season.

Speedy Zeus Rogers is only a sophomore, but takes over as the offense’s feature back. He was forced into play last season with early injuries.

“We’ve got a good veteran coaching staff and we’re just trying to be patient with some of these young kids,” Mattox said.

OFFENSE

The Blue Devils return three starters

DEFENSE

New faces abound after noseguard Casey Farris – “heart and soul of our defense” according to Mattox – graduated. Juniors Tyler Floyd and Tyler James return to the line at tackle spots on a line coaches expect a lot from.

“Up front should be one of our strengths this year,” Mattox said.

BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL Jordan Miller returns at linebacker.

Left tackle Ross Smith stands Spencer will work at linebacker, as will tall at 6-foot-6 and 305 pounds. sophomore Colin Brown. At defensive back, Lambert, Prather, and Barefield up front, guard Daniel Hill, left tackle will contribute.

Ross Smith (6-foot-6, 305) and center Daniel Spencer, a junior.

SPECIAL TEAMS It’s a two-man race at quarterback Booneville lost all-division kicker with senior A.J. Grizzard and sophoTyler White to graduation. Simpson and more Jack Simpson.

Lambert are working at punter, Connor “They each have different things Goodwin and Andrew Smith at kicker, they bring,” Mattox said. “We may wind Zane Lott, Tanner Burress at long snapup playing both of them some.” per.

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Aug. 17 Aug. 23 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

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SCOUTING REPORT

Left tackle Ross Smith (6-6, 305) is drawing interest from Ole Miss, Mississippi State and Southern Miss ... TB Zeus Rogers is the brother of graduated back Nupie Rogers ...

Booneville’s staff has more than 70 years of combined coaching experience ... Injuries hit last season, with 10 players missing in the game against Saltillo.

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12F

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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13F

Senior-laden Trojans eye deep playoff run The receiving corps also sports Rashad Turner and Donta Armstrong, along with tight ends Rashad Tillman and Truman Jones.

Zay Armstrong returns as running back, with experienced backup from Ben Williams.

Girrard Mingo will be counted on to lead the inexperienced line.

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

The Bruce Trojans played eventual state champions West Bolivar within a point in the second round of the Class 2A playoffs a year ago.

Ray So despite losing 13 seniors to graduation, the Trojans return a hefty number of starters – eight on offense and seven on defense – with a lengthy playoff run on their minds for the coming seaFAST FACTS son.

Division: 1-2A “We have all our skill guys 2011 record: 10-3, 4-1 division (Lost back on offense, but we took a in second round of playoffs) hit on the line and our secondCoach: James Ray (7th year) ary,” Bruce head coach James Ray said. “Anytime you lose a PLAYERS TO WATCH game by one point to the evenDavis Brown, Sr., QB tual state champion, it’s tough.

A 4-year starter who passed for “We definitely have Jackson 2,500-plus yards and 28 touchon our mind. But Jackson is a downs in his career. long way from in August, and we Rashad Turner, Sr., WR/S still have things to improve on.”

A 3-year starter and a favorite target of Brown at 6-foot-4.

OFFENSE Deshan Tillman, Sr., DE/TE An experienced quarterback is cerA 3-year starter and a favorite target tainly an ace-in-the-hole for any team, of Brown at 6-foot-4. and Bruce has four-year starter Davis

BRUCE

TROJANS

DEFENSE

“If we stay healthy on defense, we’ll be really good,” Ray said. “Our defense is really fast, one of the fastest defenses I’ve been around.”

Bush, Turner, and Armstrong are a nice core in the secondary. Jones and DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL Jonathan Bobo will be key at lineDavis Brown is a four-year backer, as will Tillman at defensive end, starter at QB for the Trojans. with questions still to be answered on the line.

Brown. The senior amassed more than 2,500 yards passing with 28 touchSPECIAL TEAMS downs, and another 300-plus yards Also no shortage of experience here rushing last season. for the Trojans.

“Brown knows our system, and has Chad Bush handles the kickoffs and been able to advance it,” Ray said. extra points, with Jay Johnson as the Experienced weapons dot the ofpunter. Jonathan Strickland is the snapfense, like receiver Shaq Bush, who has per. Donta Armstrong, Bush, Turner, and more than 90 receptions over three Jay Johnson are the probably candiseasons. dates for returning duties.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Mound Bayou 7:30 Vardaman 7:30 at Coffeeville 7:30 at Water Valley 7:30 Ackerman 7:30 at Houston 7:30 Walnut* 7:30 at Hatley* 7:00 Baldwyn* 7:00 Okolona* 7:00 at Calhoun City* 7:00 *–Division 1-2A

SCOUTING REPORT

West Bolivar has defeated Bruce in the playoffs two of the last three seasons, including last season’s 15-14 loss. ...

Bruce won the state 2A title in baseball in the spring, and Ray reports that it really gave the Trojan faithful a “taste” for a state title in football.

Cougars return depth from turnaround team

BY PAUL JONES

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Winters

CALHOUN ACADEMY

COUGARS FAST FACTS

Division: MAIS Eight-Man League, District I 2011 record: 6-5, 5-2 division Coach: Gerry Winters (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Hunter Harmon, Sr., QB Senior totaled nearly 1,000 yards of offense and 12 touchdowns last year.

Danny Jo Norman, Sr., RB Was district Offensive MVP in 2011 after rushing for 1,151 yards.

Devin Northrip, Sr., LB Was district Defensive MVP in 2011, recording 102 tackles.

Calhoun Academy’s first season under head coach Gerry Winters was also the program’s first year in the MAIS Eight-Man Football association.

Despite dealing with the normal depth issues in eight-man football league, Calhoun Academy still finished with a 6-5 mark last year and with nearly everyone returning, Winters is expecting more success this fall.

“If we keep all of our guys healthy on offense in our starting group then we should fare pretty well,” said Winters. “Since last year we have worked on a lot of fundamentals and have gotten stronger in that area.

“With so few numbers, having depth and avoiding injuries is always a key. If you get the wrong person hurt then it hurts the whole team.”

OFFENSE

The Cougars will have plenty of experienced weapons this fall and should

‘If we can create the holes, our backs are pretty good when we get them in the secondary.’

Gerry Winters

Calhoun Academy coach

again produce offensive fireworks.

Senior quarterback Hunter Harmon passes for 544 yards and five touchdowns last year and also rushed for 443 yards and seven more scores.

Senior Danny Jo Norman is also a major threat and he rushed for 1,151 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2011.

Other key offensive returnees include senior tight end Corey Baggett, senior fullback Kyle Carter and senior offensive tackle Kelby Flemons, who owns a bench-press mark in the 450-pound range.

“We like to play smash-mouth offense and we don’t throw the ball that well,” said Winters. “But we can run

and block well and we have a goodsized offensive line. If we can create the holes, our backs are pretty good when we get them in the secondary.”

DEFENSE

The Calhoun Academy defense will be led by senior linebacker Devin Northrip, who had 102 tackles last year.

Baggett and Carter return at the defensive end positions while Flemons anchors the defensive line from his nose guard position.

“Our defense will go as our secondary goes,” said Winters. “Nobody that we played last year was able to run on us. But we gave up our share of long passes. So we have to do more work there to slow down passing offenses in this league.”

Harmon will also aid in the secondary while Norman will line up at defensive back and linebacker.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Cameron Bryant expects again handle the kickoff and placekicking duties with Harmon likely to be the team’s punter. Norman will be the Cougars’ key guy on kickoff and punt returns.

SCHEDULE

Aug. 17 at Sharkey Issaquena7:30 Aug. 24 Central Aca.* 7:30 Aug. 31 Marvell Aca.* 7:30 Sept. 7 at Kemper Aca.* 7:30 Sept. 14 Calvary Christian* 7:30 Sept. 21 at North Sunflower* 7:30 Sept. 28 at North Delta* 7:30 Oct. 5 Briarfield Aca. 7:00 Oct. 12 Open 7:00 Oct. 19 at Russell Christian* 7:00 *–MAIS Eight-Man League, District I

SCOUTING REPORT

The 2011 season was the Cougars’ initial year in the MAIS Eight-Man District I league...Calhoun Academy produced six wins a year ago after going winless in 2010 in their first season of eight-man football...Harmon as been the team’s starting quarterback since his freshman year and threw for nearly 3,000 yards as a sophomore...Winters said senior lineman Kelby Flemons owns a bench press reaching 450 pounds.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

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DAILY JOURNAL

Young backfield fuels Wildcats’ offense Aug. 17 Coffeeville 7:30 Aug. 24 at Houston 7:30 For a small school, the CalAug. 31 Water Valley 7:30 Sept. 7 at Velma Jackson 7:30 houn City Wildcats have historiSept. 14 at Eupora 7:30 cally reloaded as well as any in Sept. 21 Amory 7:30 the state of Mississippi after Sept. 28 Baldwyn* 7:30 graduation losses.

Oct. 5 at Walnut* 7:00 In 2012, there is that potential Oct. 12 at Okolona* 7:00 for success despite only three DEFENSE 7:00 starters returning on each side Nose guard Kardevin Thomas, middle Oct. 19 Hatley* Oct. 26 Bruce* 7:00 of the football. linebacker Cyle Havens, and corner *–Division 1-2A “We might have a tough time back Rainer Nichols are the returning early in the season, but by the starters on defense for Calhoun City.

SCOUTING REPORT time division rolls around, we’ll Goodson, Evans, and James Hervey Noseguard Kardevin be OK,” head coach Perry Liles bolster the defensive line, with Thomas is a powerlifting state said. “We’ll have to handle our McBride and Brinton Sykes adding to champion ... Calhoun City lost success, and handle our failthe linebacking corps. Varnado, Petty, to West Bolivar in the Class 2A ures. and Jordan Pratt have spots in the semifinals last season ... Quar“Many of our key people are backfield. young, but I feel good them.”

“I certainly think our defense will be terback Chakel Gates had a 100-yard rushing game as a able to run,” Liles said.

DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL starter because of injury last OFFENSE season.

Liles will be able to plug in two backs Calhoun City’s Lavarious VarSPECIAL TEAMS nado is back for his junior year that combined for more than 1,800 The Wildcats return experienced toes yards as sophomores last season – tail- after rushing for 990 yards and with punter Ryne Lee and kicker Jordan 11 touchdowns last season. back Lavarious Varnado and fullback England.

Cartin McBride.

Brooks Goodson is the long snapSophomore Chakel Gates will go at Senior Brooks Goodson is the return- per. quarterback for the Wildcats, having ing starter on the line, and will get help Liles is still tinkering with the rotation earned a few snaps last season. from Tyler Evans, Tanner Bailey, Jordan of returners.

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Liles

CALHOUN CITY

WILDCATS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-2A 2011 record: 13-2, 6-0 (Lost in North finals) Coach: Perry Liles (4th season)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Lavarious Varnado, Jr., RB/S A true tailback with lots of moves.

Cartin McBride, Jr., FB/OLB Explosive runner, two-way starter last season as a sophomore.

Chakel Gates, So., QB Limited snaps as quarterback last season, and exciting runner.

SCHEDULE

England, and Noah Hill.

The tight end will be Heath Browning, with wide receivers Andricus Ezell, Ryan Lee, and Trevon Petty.

“We’re going to be a running team,” Liles said. “But as the line gets more mature, we’ll see success in the passing game.”

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Warriors catch on quickly to new system and can manage a football game.”

Robert White and Kendrick Williams will flip-flop between tailback and fullback along with Kyoshi Agnew in the backfield.

Brice Spence, Antonio Davis and Darius Gaines are part of a solid battle for the two starting positions at wide receiver.

Jones mentioned Brandon Strickland, Jake Kushner, Robert Briggs, J.R. Burns and James Dotson as possible starting offensive linemen.

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Jones

CORINTH

WARRIORS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-4A 2011 record: 6-6, 3-2 division (Lost 2nd round of state playoffs) Coach: Doug Jones (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Kyoshi Agnew, Jr., FB/MLB Three-year starter at quarterback that accounted for nearly half of the Lions’ offense as a junior.

Brady Allen, Sr., QB Must control a new offense while starting behind center for the first time in his career.

Brice Spence, Jr., WR/DB Do-all player for the Warriors who will also return kicks.

It didn’t take long for the players at Corinth High to grasp the system new head coach Doug Jones brought with him from Madison Central.

“We’ll be under center in the Iformation,” Jones said. “They’ve caught onto it and bought into it and I think they’ve done a good job with it.”

The Amory native spent the past six seasons as an assistant coach at Madison Central. He takes over the Corinth football program from Jimmy Mitchell, who retired after directing the Warriors for 14 seasons.

One thing Jones is still preaching and trying to get his team to grasp is closing games.

“They’ve got to do a better job of finishing,” Jones said, “because we’re going to try to beat people in the fourth quarter.”

OFFENSE

For Jones, the quarterback is an increasingly pivotal role on the field.

DEFENSE

The defensive leaders for the Warriors on the line will be Pree Dunbar, Bo JEFF ALLEN Howell and Randy Hill.

Kyoshi Agnew will move out from Demarkus Prather, Tiberius Hurd, under center to play fullback.

Mike Clark and David Brown join Agnew in the mix at linebacker.

“This day and age, a quarterback Look for Spence to pull double duty can lose a game for you a whole lot as a defensive back with Jay Jones and faster than they can win one,” he said.

Quajae Fisher also seeing playing time “The main thing is decision making.” at that position.

Jones said he likes what he’s seen in senior Brady Allen, who will step behind SPECIAL TEAMS center as the starting QB for the first John Michael McFall will be the dotime in his career. it-all player for Corinth on special “I’ve been pleased with him so far,” teams, handling punts, kickoffs and said Jones. “He throws the ball good PATs.

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Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct.12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Open Kossuth 7:30 at Booneville 7:30 Bolivar (Tenn.)

7:30 at New Albany 7:30 at Alcorn Central 7:30 Itawamba AHS* 7:30 at Amory* 7:00 Tishomingo County* 7:00 Pontotoc* 7:00 at Shannon* 7:00 *–Division 1-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

First-year Corinth coach Doug Jones spent 10 years under Bobby Hall, four as a player and six as an assistant coach … Jones feels his team is flying under the radar heading into the season. “I don’t think people are paying us very much attention, but just hang on,” he said. … The Warriors defeated Yazoo County in the first round of the 2011 state playoffs before ending their season in the second round at Louisville.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Urchins expecting to make progress

BY JAY TIDWELL

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Scott Duley’s football team has found its home.

The squad that competed as a cooperative team the past two Duley seasons with players from the four Union County schools has moved operations to East Union. It will compete this year in its final round of matches as an independent before stepping FAST FACTS into division play – likely as a Division: Independent Class 2A team – next year.

2011 record: 2-6 (no playoffs) “Our colors are brown and Coach: Scott Duley (3rd year) gold,” Duley said. “We’ve been working on a field and have a PLAYERS TO WATCH practice facility prepared. We’ll Broderick Montgomery, Jr., get the lines on it and have sleds, RB/DB/KR everything we need to work out.”

Had more than 1,000 yards rushing He also anticipates improveand returned two kickoffs for ments in the level of play. touchdowns last year.

“I expect for us to be more Dontrell Lattimore, Sr., WR polished,” Duley said. “I expect Newcomer who starred in basketball us to be able to compete with and track for Urchins last year; will some of the teams that beat us wear jersey No. 1. last year that might have looked Nicky Greszler, Sr., OL/DL lopsided. We weren’t overThe 6-foot-2, 270 pound senior matched as much as we were deadlifts 600-plus pounds. under-experienced.”

EAST UNION

URCHINS

C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL

Three-year starter D.J. Armstrong will be under center again for the Urchins.

OFFENSE

Offensively, the Urchins will continue to run a pro-I formation with one tightend, and third-year starter D.J. Armstrong under center.

The junior quarterback will be joined in the backfield by returning starting tailback Broderick Montgomery.

Trey Barkley, Dontrell Lattimore and Vadale Rucker will play as receivers.

Lattimore (6-foot, 180 pounds) is a senior who didn’t play football last year but has starred in basketball and track for the Urchins. “(Lattimore’s) big and he’s fast, and he’s the size that if someone notices him, he’s a real candidate,” Duley said.

Nathan Reed, Blake Graham and Nicky Greszler – all seniors – will anchor the line.

“They’re strong,” Duley said. “Two of those guys (Reed and Greszler) were state silver medalists in power lifting.”

Also on the line will be Evan Bullock and center Hunter Wiginton, another silver medalist powerlifter.

DEFENSE

The skill players on offense will fill most of the defensive backfield and the lineman will pull double duty. Barkley and Blake Spruill will play linebacker.

Lucas Wigington will also work inside on defense.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Hatley 7:30 Open at Biggersville 7:30 Mantachie 7:30 Ripley 7:30 Strayhorn 7:30 at Benton County 7:30 New Site 7:00 Potts Camp 7:00 at McLaurin 7:00 Open *–Independent

SCOUTING REPORT

The Urchins will continue to play their home games in 2012 at the BNA Bank Park in New Albany... Of the 40 players on the 2011 Union County roster, 32 were from East Union.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Armstrong was the punter last season and will also be available at that post this year. Spruill will handle kickoffs and also work as long-snapper.

Montgomery is the return specialist.

Wolverines working on rebound season

BY PAUL JONES

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Wilson

EAST WEBSTER

WOLVERINES FAST FACTS

Division: 2-2A 2011 record: 5-7, 2-3 in division (Lost in first round) Coach: Doug Wilson (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Deangelo Liggins, So., QB/RB/LB Playmaker on both sides of the ball and just a sophomore.

Wilbur O’Briant, Jr., RB/LB A common last name in East Webster’s program.

Colby Williamson, Jr., OL His third season to start at center.

Doug Wilson stepped into a new role last year as East Webster High School’s head coach.

After being an assistant coach for the Wolverines previously, there were some adjustments to make last year.

With that in the past now, Wilson expects a “smoother” journey this season and saw signs of that in the offseason.

“It’s a lot smoother now cause the kids have been around me for more than a year now and they know what I expect as their head coach,” said Wilson. “We treated weightlifting just like a practice. If you miss that, then it is like getting punished for missing a practice. The kids have all gotten used to that now.”

OFFENSE

Wilson and his staff return a total of 14 starters with seven on both sides of the football. Do-everything sophomore Deangelo Liggins will again line up at quarterback and running back as well.

Last year Liggins did most of his dam-

been an option team in the past and we will still run some option this year.

“But we want to throw in more variety this year.”

DEFENSE

Many of those same weapons on offense will be counted on heavily on the defensive side, too. Liggins had 65 tackles and two interceptions last year at his safety position while Hollinghead and O’Briant both return at linebacker.

Mosley will also line up on the defenC. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL sive front as well.

East Webster returns seven “On defense we just hope to rally to starters on defense this season. the ball and get to the ball in bunches,” said Wilson. “We don’t have a lot of age on the ground and collected five blazing speed but we do have smart rushing touchdowns. kids that play real hard and run to the Junior fullback Wilbur O’Briant also ball. So we must have good fundamenreturns after rushing for more than 200 tals and stop the run. That forces teams yards last year with two touchdowns to throw the ball and that can create a along with junior receiver McKinley lot of mistakes when teams put the ball Hollinghead. Up front there is experiin the air.” ence as well with three-year starter and junior center Colby Williamson and senSPECIAL TEAMS ior Charles Mosley.

The Wolverines will have a freshman “We are kinda starting over on ofin Tyler Cosby handling field goal and fense and taking a different approach extra point duties. Williamson will again with our scheme,” said Wilson. “And we handle the kickoffs and junior McKinley will know more about what works when Hollinghead returns as the Wolverines’ the season gets here. Traditionally we’ve punter.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Vardaman 7:30 at Okolona 7:30 Weir 7:30 Caledonia 7:30 Walnut 7:30 at St. Andrew’s 7:30 at Ackerman* 7:30 J.Z. George* 7:00 Williams-Sullivan* 7:00 at Hamilton* 7:00 Eupora* 7:00 *–Division 2-2A

SCOUTING REPORT

Junior lineman Colby Williamson is the son of East Webster assistant coach and former West Oktibbeha head coach Ken Williamson ... The Wolverines are just two years removed from playing in the Class 2A North State title game ... Last year’s losing record was the program’s first in the Class 2A ranks.

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Eagles seek to build on playoff momentum Ashley expects the young player, who had a solid spring, can give opponents problems this season.

“He’s grown a lot, 155 to 180 pounds, and he’s matured as a player,” the coach noted.

Tray Woody, who rushed for 725 yards last season at tailback, has been switched to fullback.

Jay Stroupe, a sophomore, will start at quarterback. His receivers are Denicko Adams, Dallas Hill and tight end Tyler Windsor.

Dustin McCoy, Alex Hill, Trevor Wilson, O.J. Prather and Dillon Davis are the blockers.

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Ashley

FALKNER

EAGLES

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 9-3, 7-1 division (Lost in first round of playoffs) Coach: Ben Ashley (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyler Windsor, So., WR/TE The 6-foot-2 target presents matchup problems.

Dustin McCoy, Sr., OL The offensive guard is a 4-year starter.

Jereamie Lawrence, So., RB Missed most of last season with a broken leg.

Falkner coach Ben Ashley has enjoyed football practice a lot more this August.

Last season, he was new on the job – hired June 9 – and entered preseason drills without the benefit of a spring practice.

“We had 13 practices before we played our first game,” Ashley said. “We kept it simple. We ran the toss sweep every other play.”

After struggling to a 2-2 start, which included a forfeit victory against Jumpertown – and with the help of two open dates – Ashley’s new Eagles began to soar.

Falkner won seven consecutive games to finish the regular season 9-2 and clinch a playoffs berth. The Eagles lost to Benoit Brooks in the opening round, but Ashley’s quest for a firm foundation was set.

Last year’s success has the program thinking postseason.

“I think we can compete for a playoff spot,” Ashley said. “We built some momentum last year

BRANDON SPECK | MONROE JOURNAL

Falkner’s Dustin McCoy, shown making a tackle, will see time on both sides of the line. and we had a good spring. The kids have bought into what we’re preaching.

“We’re excited about that.”

OFFENSE

Remember this name – Jereamie Lawrence. The talented 5-foot-11, 180pound tailback was sidelined with a broken leg most of last season.

Aug. 17 Aug. 23 Aug. 31 Sept. 6 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 4 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

Middleton (Tenn.)

7:30 at Walnut 7:30 Benton County 7:30 Vardaman* 7:30 Open Coldwater* 7:30 at Biggersville* 7:30 Houlka* 7:00 at Tupelo Christian* 7:00 Thrasher* 7:00 at Byers* 7:00 at Smithville* 7:00 *–Division 1-1A

SCOUTING REPORT

Ashley enters his 15th year in coaching after stops in PonDEFENSE totoc, Eupora, Amory, AbThe Eagles’ multiple fronts will feaerdeen and South Panola. ... ture McCoy and Davis up front. Adam Stroupe should give the Eagles Hearn, Wood, Lawrence and Stroupe a passing game. The team’s are the linebackers. Adams, Hill and Ethan Prather will play in the secondary. leading receiver last season, 6“Defense should be a strong point for 2, 180 WR/TE Tyler Windsor had seven receptions. ... O.J. us early,” Ashley said.

Prather, a sophomore, and Dillon Davis, a freshman, will SPECIAL TEAMS start on the offensive line.

Wilson returns to handle the placekicking and long snapping chores on the punts. McCoy is the leading candidate for the punting job.

Lions try to repeat their 2011 success story

BY MELISSA MEADOR MONROE JOURNAL

Weeks

HAMILTON

LIONS

FAST FACTS

Division: 2-2A 2011 record: 9-3, 4-1 division (Lost in first round of playoffs) Coach: Ray Weeks (9th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Deion Howard, Sr., RB/LB Part of a successful two-back tandem with Cojuante McMillian last year. Will also handle kick returns for the Lions.

Quinshay Heard, Jr., QB/FS Junior moves from fullback, where he had several touchdown runs in 2011.

Jeremy Lindsey, Sr., OL/DE Senior is hard to block up front. He locked a potential game-winning field goal against Houston last season.

Hamilton’s hot start to last season – winning nine of its first 10 games – is hard to forget, but that’s exactly what Hamilton coach Ray Weeks wants his players to do.

“They just can’t live off what we accomplished last year,” said Weeks, whose Lions fell to Hollandale Simmons in the first round of the playoffs last year.

“We had a good year, but it’s a new year. We didn’t finish it last year, and that’s what we have to do this year.”

OFFENSE

Junior Quinshay Heard will be the starting quarterback for Hamilton this season, moving from fullback. Running back Deion Howard, one of six starters returning on offense, will be joined in the backfield by junior Pallas Fair.

“Deion made a lot of great runs for us last year,” Weeks said. “He’s a great player, and we’re going to expect big things out of him this year.”

Seniors Silas Gill and Cole Richardson return at fullback and wide receiver

start at center.

DEFENSE

Hamilton also returns six starters on defense. Linebackers Gill, Howard and Fair all return, while Roberts could also see time at the position.

Lindsey and Dobbs return on the defensive line as well, and Will Chaffin should see time at tackle.

Plenty of experience also returns in the secondary with Richardson at cornerback and Heard at free safety.

Cole Williams and Dusty Bryan may see time on both the offensive and defensive lines.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Finding a kicker has been an early priority for the Lions, who are having to replace last season’s kicker Sander C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL Grondman, an exchange student from Hamilton running back Deion Holland.

Howard will see plenty of carries “There’s another exchange student this season for the Lions. that we’re hoping will fill the spot, but he won’t be here until Aug. 17,” Weeks respectively, and junior Dominique said. “We’ve got some kids working at Dobbs and senior Jeremy Lindsey will it, but we just don’t know yet.” anchor the offensive line.

Howard, who returned several kicks Weeks said sophomore Michael for touchdowns last season, will conRoberts could see time at fullback, tinue to be the kick returner for the while senior Evan Phillips is likely to Lions.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Smithville 7:30 at Houlka 7:30 Kossuth 7:30 Hatley 7:30 Houston 7:30 at Walnut 7:30 at Williams-Sullivan* 7:00 at Eupora* 7:00 J.Z. George* 7:00 East Webster* 7:00 at Ackerman* 7:00 *–Division 2-2A

SCOUTING REPORT

Junior Quinshay Heard takes over the quarterback role from brother Zarrat Sims ... All three of the Lions’ losses in 2011 were by two touchdowns or less ... Two of Hamilton’s first four games are against county rivals Smithville and Hatley ...

Lions hosted their first playoff game since 2001 last year against Hollandale Simmons.

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DAILY JOURNAL

Tigers preparing for tough division slate Tigers. Junior Ethan Langford will start at tight end.

BY MELISSA MEADOR MONROE JOURNAL

Warren

HATLEY

TIGERS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-2A 2011 record: 4-7, 0-5 division (no playoffs) Coach: Marty Warren (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyler Bowling, Sr., OG/DE Senior is key for both the offensive and defensive lines.

Derrick Hampton, Sr., HB/CB Replaces Tyler Edwards, who had more than 1,300 rushing yards last season.

Jordan Metcalf, Jr., QB/ILB The 5-10 junior steps into the starting quarterback role for the first time.

With a team of just over 30 players, first-year Hatley coach Marty Warren is all about getting his team to play four quarters – especially in a division as tough as 1-2A. Last season, the Tigers began their season 4-2, including the first win over county rival Smithville in 16 years, before dropping all five division games.

BRANDON SPECK | MONROE JOURNAL “We have a big road ahead of Hatley’s Tyler Bowling, left, will us because our division is so tough,” said Warren, who served be a key anchor on both sides of the line for the Tigers. as an assistant coach last year.

“We just have to discover some mental and physical toughness into the quarterback role, replacing last because a lot of those games got year's starter Caleb Walters. away from us in the fourth quarTyler Bowling at guard highlights an ter. If we learn to play four quar- offensive line that includes fellow senters, stay in a ballgame and give iors Marshall Harper, Braeden Eldridge ourselves an opportunity, if the and Trey Parker. break goes our way then we've Derrick Hampton replaces Tyler Edgot a shot.” wards at halfback and will be backed up by Deion Hampton. Collin Hester at OFFENSE wingback and Andrew Gray at fullback The Tigers return four starters on of- are both also expected to have a big fense. Junior Jordan Metcalf will step impact in the running game for the

DEFENSE

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

East Union 7:30 Smithville 7:30 at Mooreville 7:30 at Hamilton 7:30 Alcorn Central 7:30 at Mantachie 7:30 at Okolona* 7:30 Bruce* 7:00 at Walnut* 7:00 at Calhoun City* 7:00 Baldwyn* 7:00 *–Division 1-2A

Bowling and Eldridge will anchor the ends of the defensive line, while Harper will start at tackle.

Gray and Hester both return at linebacker, while junior Justin Dillard will join them at inside linebacker.

Cornerbacks Derrick and Deion Hampton will be key components of the secondary.

“There are still a few positions up in SCOUTING REPORT the air, and it's making for good compeHead coach Marty Warren tition at practice right now,” Warren adds defensive line coach Ben said.

Stark to his staff this year ... 11 seniors from last season’s team SPECIAL TEAMS return for the Tigers ... Hatley The biggest role for Hatley to fill on plays three of its five division special teams is replacing placekicker games on the road ... Special Walters, who was solid for the Tigers teams was the biggest area for last season. the Tigers to figure out in prac“It’ll be a lot of the same guys who are starting elsewhere,” Warren said on tice. who would make an impact on special teams. “Special teams-wise, we don’t have a lot of kids on the team, so we’re going to have to get in good enough shape that we can play four quarters of offense, defense and special teams.”

Hawks aim to set new standard for winning

BY JAY TIDWELL

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Rankin

HOLLY SPRINGS

HAWKS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-3A 2011 record: 4-7, 2-3 division (no playoffs) Coach: Chris Rankin (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Holly Springs coach Chris Rankin has given his players a history lesson. On the whiteboard in the Hawks’ locker room is a compilation of the school’s 41 seasons in football.

The notable feature of the handwritten chart is that no squad has reached seven wins in a season.

Rankin, who was promoted from assistant coach in July, wants this team to set a new standard.

OFFENSE

“We were real senior-heavy last Tevin Jones, Sr., RB year on both sides of the ball,” said Had 818 yards rushing and 11 TDs in Rankin, who must replace 13 who 7 games in 2011. Division 1-3A graduated. “But we have a couple of first-team offense as RB. key juniors from that team who are Tyjae Jones, Sr., OL/DL still with us.”

Earned Div. 1-3A Super 22 honors Five starters return on offense. In the last year as a defensive lineman. backfield, Tevin Jones, a senior, was Ronnell Boyland, Jr., QB last season’s leading rusher. Jones First-year starter; mobile and can started the year as a receiver and throw. “With Ronnell, we plan on moved to running back after a pair of passing more, and have found our starters were injured. He piled up 818 identity,” Chris Rankin said. yards rushing over the last seven

senior Tyjae Jones at right guard. Also blocking will be juniors Anthony Jones and Lewis Bruce, and seniors Kordairus Crane and William Talley, who will play center.

Ronnell Boyland saw a lot of playing time last year as a sophomore and will start at quarterback. “He’s 5-9, tops, but he can run,” Rankin said.

DEFENSE

Six defenders are back, three of whom played extensively last year.

Tyjae Jones leads on the line, where he garnered Div. 1-3A Super 22 honors last year. Crane will return as inside linebacker. Devonte Smith and Anthony Jones have also earned starting roles as ends. Boyland will play safety and Talley will work as linebacker.

BARRY BURLESON | THE SOUTH REPORTER “After that, we’re super young,” Holly Springs returns five starters Rankin said. on offense and six on defense Rankin also noted the progress in the after going 4-7 last season. weight room of two new linemen.

LeJoshua Malone is setting the pace at games and earned a spot on the Div. 1- 585 pounds in squat, and fellow junior 3A first-team offense in his new posiBrandon Crane has handled 545. tion.

“We put him at tailback and pretty SPECIAL TEAMS much just handed the ball off to him, Rankin is expecting Calvin James and he carried us,” Rankin said. and Diondre Dockery to battle for kickAnchoring the offensive line will be ing and punting duties.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Coldwater 7:30 Mound Bayou JFK 7:30 at West Tallahatchie 7:30 at Byhalia 7:30 Coahoma AHS 7:30 at Independence 7:30 Ripley* 7:30 at Alcorn Central* 7:00 Booneville* 7:00 Belmont* 7:00 at Kossuth* 7:00 *–Division 1-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

Rankin took over for Marcus Autry, who compiled a 5-16 record in two seasons. He previously spent 11 seasons as an assistant, was an All-Conference offensive lineman on Delta State’s 1998 Gulf South Conference championship team and played for the Baton Rouge Blaze in the Arena 2 League.

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Young Wildcats working hard on fundamentals R.J. Johnson will return in the backfield for the Wildcats and share time at tailback with James Boggs.

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Allen

HOULKA

WILDCATS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 1-10, 1-8 division (no playoffs) Coach: Rob Allen (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Devahn Fields, Sr., FB/DT Had 91 tackles on defense last season, will convert from line to fullback on offense.

Marquis Vance, Jr., OL/DT All Division 1-2A lineman last season as sophomore.

R. J. Johnson, Sr., QB/ILB Key player on both offense and defense for Wildcats.

Youth will certainly be served this season with the HoulkaWildcats.

A heaping helping.

The young program lost nine seniors from last year’s unit, a fact not lost on head coach Rob Allen.

“We are young,” Allen said.

“But the work ethic is good, and we’re fundamentally better than we’ve ever been.”

SCHEDULE

at Okolona 7:30 Hamilton 7:30 Open Biggersville* 7:30 at Byers* 7:30 at Tupelo Christian* 7:30 Thrasher* 7:30 at Falkner* 7:00 Smithville* 7:00 at Vardaman* 7:00 Benton County* 7:00 at Coldwater* 7:00 *–Division 1-1A Home games played at Okolona

SCOUTING REPORT

OFFENSE

To lead the 2012 version of the Wildcats, Allen will tab sophomore Wyatt Easterley.

“He has a big arm, and he’s getting better every day,” Allen said. “He looked good in the 7-on-7 opportunities he had.”

Easterley should have a nice envelope of safety with the Wildcats offensive line, which Allen calls “good sized.”

Marquis Vance, Josh Clair, Joe Byars, and Blake Williams are veteran linemen, with sophomore Cameron Smith as the newcomer to the unit.

Aug. 17 Aug. 23 Aug. 31 Sept. 6 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 11 Oct. 19 Oct. 25 Nov. 2

LISA VOYLES | THE CHICKASAW JOURNAL

The tailback duties will be shared by James Boggs and R. J. Johnson, with converted lineman Devahn Fields at fullback. The Wildcats have great depth at wide out with Johnson, Vell Harris, Jonathan Huffman, Craig Peden, Larry Jones, and Swayer Byers.

Walker Winter gets the nod at tight end.

DEFENSE

Fields will be in a vital role on the

defense moving to middle linebacker after being one of the team leaders in tackles at from a line position a year ago.

Easterley and Winter round out the crew of linebackers.

Johnson, Jones, and Harris make up the heart of the secondary, with help from freshman Quintavin Beaty.

Vance, Clair, Buggs, and Blake Williams will be in the trenches of the line for Houlka.

The motto for the upcoming season for the Wildcats “Change the Attitude.”... Devahn Fields had 91 tackles a season ago... Five seasons ago, current Houlka sophomores were allowed to play as sixth graders on the very first Wildcats football team.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Familiar face on Hilltoppers’ sidelines be successful we’ve got to throw,” Cook said. “We’ve got to develop some receivers. Our goal is to be balanced.”

The OL returns three starters – center Tez Gates, guard Kenrick Maxwell and tackle Corey Anderson. Devin Murphy and J.J. Brownlee, a talented freshman, will battle for the other guard spot. Avery Seales is the other tackle.

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Cook

HOUSTON

HILLTOPPERS FAST FACTS

Division: 4-4A 2011 record: 6-6, 3-2 division (lost in first round of playoffs) Coach: William Cook (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chris Jones, Sr., DE/TE Played in 7 games and averaged 9.4 tackles; 6-5, 240-pounder is committed to play at Mississippi State Sharone Wright, Sr., QB Rushed for 734 yards, passed for 720 yards and accounted for 28 TDs last season.

Emmitt Dendy, Jr., K/P Kicked 21 extra points, six FGs last season.

William Cook has spent eight years coaching football on all levels in the Houston school district.

His ninth season will find him working at the highest level – head coach of the high school team.

“I’ve coached junior high, junior varsity, offensive line and been defensive coordinator and offensive coordinator ... a little bit of everything,” said the Vicksburg native and former Mississippi State player.

“I’m excited about this opportunity. This place is like home for me.”

OFFENSE

Cook has a reason to be optimistic about his offensive unit – senior QB Sharone Wright returns to take snaps for a third consecutive season.

Last year’s fullback, Quon Brand, moves to tailback. He’ll be joined by fullback Brandon Townsend, a bruising runner who averaged 6.7 yards per

DEFENSE

Chris Jones, a 6-foot-5, 250-pound Mississippi State commitment, returns at end, where he recorded 9.4 tackles per game and registered five sacks. The big man, who plays post for the Toppers in basketball, runs a 4.7 40.

The division’s defensive MVP, senior noseguard Deontray Smith, returns after recording 30 tackles for losses last C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL season.

Houston QB Sharone Wright had Shaquille Spears and J.J. Brownlee more than 1,400 yards of total will be inside backers while Nathan offense last season.

Smith and McQuary play outside. CB Chris Thornton, who had seven intercepcarry last season as a freshman. tions last season, leads the secondary.

Gavin McQuary, the only experienced receiver returning, will play wide out SPECIAL TEAMS and tight end. He’ll be joined at receiver Emmitt Dendy, a four-year starter, is

by Q. Lewis and Blake Johns. the kicker and punter. Kody Kimbrough, “We’re a run-based offense, but to a safety, will be the deep snapper.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

South Pontotoc 7:30 Calhoun City 7:30 at Okolona 7:30 Ackerman 7:30 at Hamilton 7:30 Bruce 7:30 at Louisville* 7:30 Caledonia* 7:00 at Noxubee County* 7:00 at Leake Central* 7:00 Kosciusko* 7:00 *–Division 4-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

Cook has coached most of his players since the seventh grade, which has made for an easy transition to head coach.

“It’s not like I’m starting from scratch,” he said. “We want to get the program where it can be. The potential is here.” ...

Three starters in the secondary – CB Brand, FS Lewis and SS Kimbrough – are four-year starters. ... Cook replaced Donny Rogers, who stepped down after one season.

Lions putting season in sophomore’s hands

BY JAY TIDWELL

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Kimbrough

H.W. BYERS

LIONS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 7-6, 5-3 division (lost in first round of playoffs) Coach: James Kimbrough (5th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marquis Moore, So., RB/DB 1,675 yards rushing in 2011 as a freshman.

Trelorenz Stephens, Sr., QB/S/K/P “He gives us speed and skill at quarterback, and has greatly improved his throwing.” – Byers coach James Kimbrough.

Jhereunt Yarbrough, Jr., OL/DL 6-2, 275, junior who will provide much-needed muscle on the line.

Marquis Moore is going to be very busy.

Coming off a division-high 1,675 yards rushing as a freshman last season, H.W. Byers coach James Kimbrough is planning to use him even more this time around.

“He’s working hard, and I’ve challenged him to get 2,000 yards as a sophomore,” Kimbrough said. “He’s the kind of player that can get 180 yards in a quarter and can score from anyC. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL where on the field. If he gets a Trelorenz Stephens will see achole, he’s gone,” tion on both sides of the football Moore (5-foot-10, 160 as well as handle kicking duties. pounds) was an integral part of the Lions’ historic 2011 season.

In its first year in division play, Trelorenz Stephens, a senior, will the Marshall County squad went move from wide receiver to full-time 7-6 overall, 5-3 in Div. 1-1A, and quarterback. Kimbrough said he logged reached the playoffs. more than 800 yards rushing and 600 yards receiving last year, and was used OFFENSE in the Wildcat formation. Ronnie Dennis “We will have a good mix on ofwill play tight end. Dominic Jones, who fense,” Kimbrough said. “(Moore) draws topped 500 yards on the ground last the defense up and gives us opportuni- year, will play fullback. “He’s our ties to pass.” ‘bruiser back,’” Kimbrough said.

Quantario Stigger, a sophomore, provides versatility for the offense. Kimbrough plans to use him at receiver and running back.

“Our only problem is our offensive line,” Kimbrough said. “We are a little small and undersized there and aren’t that deep. And they will have to play both ways.”

Jhereunt Yarbrough (6-2, 275) is back on the line, and Xavier Gorman (55, 200) will play center.

DEFENSE

Dennis will play defensive end again after leading the squad in sacks (11) in 2011.

The top defensive backs also return.

Germaine Glass had eight INTs as cornerback. Djuan Delaine led the team in tackles (62) as strong safety. Stephens will also play free safety.

Melvin Harris (5-7, 230) will be a key part of the Lions defensive scheme.

“He’s an all-around playmaker, and is one lineman who will have to be double-teamed,” Kimbrough said of the sophomore.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Stephens will handle punts and kicks. Gorman will be long snapper.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

at Potts Camp 7:30 Strayhorn 7:30 at Smithville* 7:30 Open Houlka* 7:30 at Vardaman* 7:30 Tupelo Christian* 7:30 at Marshall Aca. 7:00 Thrasher* 7:00 at Coldwater* 7:00 Falkner* 7:00 at Biggersville* 7:00 *–Division 1-1A

SCOUTING REPORT

The 2011 team made its memorable run with only 18 players on its roster ... This year’s nine seniors were part of the first junior high team at Byers as eighth graders.

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Indians will count on loaded backfield ceiver, while Houston Orr will start at tight end.

Up front, veteran tackles Ethan Orr and Desmen Johnson return along with senior guard Cody Crane.

BY ZACH ADAMS

ITAWAMBA COUNTY TIMES

Collums

ITAWAMBA AHS

INDIANS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-4A 2011 record: 7-4, 3-2 division (Lost 1st round of playoffs) Coach: Toby Collums (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyler Dossett, Sr., QB/PK A dual-threat QB, he is expected to make plays with both his arm and his legs.

Ashton Shumpert, Sr., RB/S Will contribute in every facet of the game and is the Indians’ most dynamic playmaker.

Charles Moore, Sr., RB Kicked 21 extra points, six FGs last season.

Powered by running backs Ashton Shumpert and Charles Moore, Itawamba AHS Coach Toby Collums will deploy a runheavy offense as the Indians look to capture their first division title in three years.

Collums hopes that the veteran offensive line can anchor his fast-paced, spread attack while allowing the Indians to control the speed of the game.

“I think that people are going to see a team that takes a lot of pride in running the football,” he said. “We want to control the tempo, spread people across the field and still be able to run the ball.”

OFFENSE

Senior quarterback Tyler Dossett started every game but one last season and brings a balanced skill set to the position.

Running backs Shumpert and Moore will carry the bulk of the offense, each bringing something different to the

DEFENSE

Itawamba AHS is based out of a 3-35 alignment and plans to use speed and aggression to keep offenses off balance.

“I think we have a little bit more team speed on defense than we had last year,” Collums said. “These guys run to the football and love to hit.”

Nose guard Jamarcus Marion had a JOHN BOWEN | SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL breakout spring and will be flanked by Itawamba running back Charles senior ends Stratavious McGaughy and Moore ran for more than 1,300 Luke Harris. yards last season.

Linebacker Austin Cauthern returns, joined by Reggie White and Deante Lee. table.

Shumpert will be joined in the back “Ashton is 6-foot-2, 205 pounds and field by Keashun Gaston at strong is a 4.5 guy that runs really well and safety, while Mike King and Payton brings a certain aura with him,” ColGreen will man the corners. lums said. “Charles is a tough kid to tackle who punishes people when he SPECIAL TEAMS runs into them.”

Dossett will handle the placekicking Highly-recruited Shumpert will also duties. Zach Whittaker is the punter and start at safety and will contribute at Kory Payne and Cameron Shumpert the multiple positions due to his versatility. deep snappers. Ashton Shumpert, along Makel Hamer returns at wide rewith others, will handle returns.

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Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Saltillo 7:30 at New Albany 7:30 Nettleton 7:30 open at Senatobia 7:30 Okolona 7:30 at Corinth* 7:30 Shannon* 7:00 at Pontotoc* 7:00 at Amory* 7:00 Tishomingo County* 7:00 *–Division 1-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

Moore rushed for more than 1,300 yards for the Indians in 2011 … Shumpert transferred from Tupelo, where he rushed for 1,300 yards as a sophomore and 929 yards and eight TDs as a junior despite being hampered with a stress fracture …

Moore, Shumpert and Dossett combined for 341 rushing yards and five TDs in the the Indians’ 34-7 victory over Hamilton, Ala., in the spring game ... Non-division games include Division 2-4A’s New Albany and North Pontotoc.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Aggies expect no letdown from 12-1 year

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Kelly

KOSSUTH

AGGIES

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-3A 2011 record: 12-1, 5-0 division (lost in third round of playoffs) Coach: Brian Kelly (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chase Settlemires, Sr., DE Recorded 36 tackles and 21 sacks as a junior.

Denzel Miller, Sr., RB/CB Fastest player on the team, transferred from Booneville before last season.

Dillon Hughes, Sr., RT/DL The two-time state powerlifting champion in his class will lead the offensive line.

After a record-setting first year as head coach, Brian Kelly knows his team will get everybody’s best shot this season.

“You run the table, you’re going to have a red dot on your back,” said Kelly. “Our kids expect that and they’ve been told that every day.”

Kossuth finished the regular season undefeated and tied a school record with 12 wins last year. Even with 19 seniors gone from that team, Kelly doesn’t expect a letdown this season.

“These younger guys know what it takes to win,” he said. “A lot of people are not expecting a lot out of Kossuth this year and they’ve been going at that with a chip on their shoulder this offseason wanting to be better.”

sophomore, Dickson stands at 6-foot-5, 315 pounds.

Kelly will turn to Denzel Miller, the fastest player on his team, to help replace two 500-plus yard running backs.

Two young quarterbacks continue to battle for the starting spot. Sophomore Weston Bobo and freshman Elijah Potts will both get reps behind center early in the season.

DEFENSE

The Aggies retained the bulk of their experience on the defensive side with six starters back for another season.

Chase Settlemires, an all-division pick as a junior, anchors the line and is Kossuth’s leading returning tackler.

Hughes and Elam will pull double duty DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL as defensive linemen.

Kossuth’s Chase Settlemires is Blake Holley and Jacob Meeks both back for his senior year after return as starters at linebacker. recording 21 sacks and 36 tackles for the Aggies last year.

SPECIAL TEAMS While Kelly still has a piece or two to Hughes played a pivotal role in open- fit into the lineup on special teams, two OFFENSE ing up holes for Kossuth’s rushers last names he can rely on are Stegan Smith Seven seniors will help to fill the void year. Fellow seniors Jordan Elam and and Meeks. of nine lost offensive starters, beginning Tyler Martin join him on the line.

Smith will handle the long snapping with returning first-team all-state right Ty Dickson is also expected to conwhile Meeks’ strong leg will be put to tackle Dillon Hughes. tribute as an offensive lineman. As a use in place-kicking.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Baldwyn 7:30 at Corinth 7:30 at Hamilton 7:30 Tishomingo County 7:30 Open at Mooreville 7:30 at Belmont* 7:30 Booneville* 7:00 Ripley* 7:00 at Alcorn Central* 7:00 Holly Springs* 7:00 *–Division 1-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

With so many new faces, Kossuth coach Brian Kelly will open up the offense a bit more this season. “We’re going to be doing a lot of motioning and shifting around from play-toplay to keep the defense on its toes,” he said … Jay Vanderford, the Aggies’ starting QB last season, has stayed close to home during the summer to help young QBs Weston Bobo and Elijah Potts develop their skills … Kossuth lost to Class 3A champion Charleston in the state quarterfinals in 2011.

Commodores begin life after Liggins

BY BRANDON SPECK DAILY JOURNAL

Robertson

LAFAYETTE

COMMODORES FAST FACTS

Division: 2-4A 2011 record: 16-0 (won Class 4A state championship) Coach: Eric Robertson (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Brandon Mack, Sr., QB/DB The 5-10, 175-pound senior will be limited on defense as he starts at quarterback.

Alec Michael, Sr., LB Senior (6-2, 210) is a three-year starter at linebacker.

Trae Williams, Sr., OT The 6-0, 240-pounder is a returning starter that line coach Eric Robertson says “needs to really be a leader with that young group.”

There is a huge difference in the Lafayette Commodores. Losing a 6-foot-3, 260-pound quarterback like Jeremy Liggins is hard to hide.

The sidelines look different too though. Coach Eric Robertson enters his eighth year with the team, first as head coach.

All he acquired is a 32-game win streak and a team that has won the last two Class 4A state titles.

“There’s always pressure when you start talking about a streak,” Robertson said. But I think these guys just go out there expecting to win. I think these guys will step up.”

Dating back three years, the Dores are 44-2 with appearances in the last three state finals.

OFFENSE

There wasn’t a lot of throwing with Liggins’ ability to run the football. There may be more of a run-pass, play action mix this season. But with D.K. Buford in the backfield, why throw it? Buford was

ter are Trae Pruitt, guards Shilo Woodard and Austin Arrington with Jordan Willms in the mix and Elliot Markuson at tight end, four of the five as seniors.

Liggins, Jamel and Demarkous Dennis combined for 62 TDs last season.

“We really lost some great players but I’m excited about the two guys who are going to replace them,” Robertson said.

DEFENSE

Defensively a 3-3 stack loses 340pound nose guard D.Q. Reynolds and defensive end Keeyon Tyson, both three-year starters.

Defensive end Cortez Coleman is a DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL returning starter. Fellow senior Alec Lafayette’s D.K. Buford turned Michael has been second on the team heads this summer when he was in tackles the last two seasons at linetimed at 4.2 in the 40-yard dash. backer. Kalen Coleman returns at Mike backer and at outside linebacker, Barry clocked at 4.2 in the 40-yard dash this is a returning starter Robertson says summer. Brandon Mack will move from “really came on toward the end of last receiver to quarterback. year.” Terrell returns at free safety.

There is one returning lineman, senior Trae Williams at left tackle. Colby SPECIAL TEAMS Terrell is a returning receiver and fellow Jackson Tyler was as reliable as any senior Josh Barry played some receiver player on the field, a trait the Dores will and will be asked to fill a bigger role. look to senior Casey Vaughn to maintain.

Opening practice on the line at cenJake McPhail will handle punting duties.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 25

SCHEDULE

Tupelo 7:30 Greenwood 7:30 at Oxford 7:30 Duval Charter (Fla.) 7:30 Shannon 7:30 at Pontotoc 7:30 at Lewisburg* 7:30 Tunica Rosa Fort* 7:00 at New Albany* 7:00 Senatobia* 7:00 at North Pontotoc* 7:00 *–Division 2-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

D.K. Buford and Brandon Mack each had more than 100 yards in the spring game ...

WR/FS Colby Terrell had wrist surgery at the end of spring and will be ready the first week of August ... The Aug. 30 Crosstown Classic at Oxford will be televised on CSpire “Bright Lights” series ...

Lafayette’s last regular-season loss was at Itawamba AHS on Sept. 11, 2009.

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Moore brings veteran presence to Mustangs Senior tackle Wesley Loague, along with sophomore center Austin Black and junior guards Hayden Gordon and Andrew Malone, have all earned spots on the inexperienced offensive line.

BY ZACH ADAMS

ITAWAMBA COUNTY TIMES

Moore

MANTACHIE

MUSTANGS FAST FACTS

Division: 2-3A 2011 record: 3-8, 0-5 division (no playoffs) Coach: Lynn Moore (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dustin Carrel, Jr., QB/PK Starting QB is expected to also be a difference-maker on special teams.

Micah Sparks, Jr., QB/WR/S A speedy breakaway threat, he is the Mustangs’ big-play maker.

Trent Ellis, Sr., LB One of team’s best pass rushers last season, the hard-hitting senior could flourish in Mantachie’s aggressive defensive scheme.

Mantachie first-year coach Lynn Moore plans on using an up-tempo offensive attack to lead the Mustangs to victory in their second season in Class 3A. Moore, who served the last two seasons as offensive coordinator for Anniston (Ala.) High School, will rely on an experienced core of running backs and seniorladen defense to set an early tone for the campaign.

“We’re a hurry-up, no huddle, fast-paced offense,” he said. “We want to throw the ball around, but we are going to be a physical run-first football team.”

OFFENSE

Returning starter Dustin Carrel entered the fall as the No. 1 quarterback, but safety Micah Sparks, as well as Austin Byrd and Phillip Christian could all see snaps.

“Dustin brings a year of experience and throws the ball well,” Moore said.

“He is a really smart kid and I think he brings a lot to the table with his leader-

DEFENSE

Mantachie is based out of a 4-2-5 alignment but will routinely use multiple fronts as part of an aggressive game plan.

“We like to play on the other side of the line of scrimmage,” Moore said.

“We are not a read defense; we are more of an aggressive, attacking unit.”

ZACH ADAMS | ITAWAMBA COUNTY TIMES Seniors Alex Gray and Samuel Dustin Carrel will take snaps Matthews will man the tackle positions, again this season as well as kick. while Hunter Mears will hold down one of the end spots with Scribner and ship and demeanor.”

Smith rotating at the other.

Sparks returns as the Mustangs’ bigStandout linebacker Trent Ellis replay threat and will split time between turns, joined by Clay Johnson, Chatham quarterback, wide receiver and safety. and Stephens.

Junior Mac Grimes will lead a pool of Sparks and T.J. Pitts are the safeties, running backs that also includes Ryno and Holland and Zac Cox the corners.

Hardin, Hunter Holland, Cole Stephens, Cody Chatham and Corey Smith.

SPECIAL TEAMS Sparks, Byrd, Logan McCoy and Carrel will handle the placekicking Chris Bruff will all see time at wide reand punting duties, while Johnson will ceiver, while senior Cory Scribner will be the deep snapper. Sparks, along with start at tight end. others, will handle returns.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

North Pontotoc 7:30 Belmont 7:30 at New Site 7:30 East Union 7:30 Potts Camp 7:30 Hatley 7:30 Aberdeen* 7:30 at Mooreville* 7:00 South Pontotoc* 7:00 at Nettleton* 7:00 at Water Valley* 7:00 *–Division 2-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

The Mustangs welcome three new assistants as Chad Garner, A.J. Freeman and defensive coordinator T.J. Seago join the staff … Moore, a former coach at Itawamba AHS, Aberdeen and West Point, went 9-5 last season as the offensive coordinator at Anniston, Ala., including a berth in the Alabama 4A semis … Mustangs are home for six of the first seven weeks … Moore, also the AD, has worked to improve facilities, including new 1,600-seat home bleachers.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Itawamba welcomes back prodigal RB Shumpert in at quarterback as soon as he returned.

He doesn’t have to do it all for the InAshton Shumpert is glad to be back dians, who went 7-4 last season and lost home. And the Itawamba AHS commu- at Cleveland in the first round of the nity is pretty happy about it too. playoffs.

The 4-star running back/defensive Tyler Dossett returns at quarterback, back spent his freshman season with where he started 10 of 11 games last the Indians, who made it to the North fi- season and threw for 1,205 yards. nals against Lafayette.

Charles Moore, another senior, rushed Lafayette won the game but IAHS was for 1,312 yards. the last team to beat the Commodores “We do have a lot of weapons,” in the regular season, Sept. 11 of that Shumpert said. “They don’t have to use 2009 season. me every time. They can use me as a Shumpert then transferred to Tupelo decoy.” as a sophomore. Since then, he’s become one of the country’s premier reLEADING THE WAY cruits. The 6-foot-1, 205-pounder’s Coaches have lauded his leadership offers include Alabama, Georgia, Ole skills on the football field and on the Miss, Mississippi State, Oklahoma State basketball court. and Vanderbilt. Georgia is likely the next The spotlight is bright but has been for visit he takes. a while. Shumpert takes it in stride and “I’m still open to everybody. I’m still has never been accused of letting the atlooking at everybody,” Shumpert said. “I tention affect any aspect of his game, live don’t have a four or three or anything.” or in practice. It will be as bright as ever Last season, the two-time Daily Jour- this season, with a pending decision on nal All-Area team selection rushed for where to play college football.

929 yards and eight touchdowns as a “It’s real fun. I’m blessed,” Shumpert tailback/quarterback. He missed three said. “A whole lot more kids would do games with a leg injury suffered on his anything to be doing this. I’m taking it first carry of a jamboree, then had to fill all in and I’m real thankful for it.”

BY BRANDON SPECK

ZACH ADAMS | THE ITAWAMBA COUNTY TIMES

Ashton Shumpert, a Clarion Ledger’s Dandy Dozen pick, has scholarship offers from Alabama, Georgia, Ole Miss, Mississippi State, Oklahoma State and Vanderbilt. Shumpert is back at Itawamba AHS after two seasons at Tupelo.

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After being out of coaching for 10 years while he served as a principal at Shannon and the Superintendent of Education of Lee County Schools, Mike Scott is back in coaching at Nettleton. After losing last year’s election, Scott took the head coaching job at Nettleton High School. Scott will bring his passhappy offense to Nettleton, one that won the 1996 Class 3A championship at Shannon.

DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL

Scott reviving his shoot-first offense in Nettleton

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Mike Scott is 10 years removed from coaching high school football, but his “Run ’n’ Shoot” offensively philosophy remains intact.

If anything’s changed, it’s the run part.

“We just call it shoot,” said Scott, who returns to the Northeast Mississippi sidelines this season as head coach of the Nettleton Tigers. “We look to throw it first.”

Scott coached 21 years in Shannon, winning a state championship in 1996,

before taking an administrative position in 2002. He later served a term as superintendent of the Lee County Schools.

He opened up his offensive attack in 1993 for a talented freshman quarterback named Romaro Miller. The QB set a state passing records for the Red Raiders before playing at Ole Miss.

“We were small and did not have any running backs we could count on,” Scott said. “We wanted to get kids in space and make it as much like basketball as we could.

“I’m not a patient person. When you run the Wing-T, you’re satisfied with a 3-

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yard gain. I want a third-and-10 to be like “He can deliver it; he’s a special a third-and-1. Even though the first two player,” Scott said. “He’s worked hard this passes were incomplete, we’ve got a summer ... like all these kids have.” good chance to move the chains and get Scott, who says his coaching ego has a first down.” long since been satisfied, is more concerned these days with player developHE’S WIDE OPEN ment.

Scott’s wide-open passing game allows “All I want to do is see these kids get more players to be involved and touch better from week to week,” he said. “I rethe ball. That keeps players interested in alize we’re not going to be world-beaters. practice, too.

I just want to see them hang with it and Of course, it helps to have a quarter- just get better each week. back who can make all the throws. Scott “It’s still blocking and tackling. I want believes he has found the player in 6- to see a group of young men come tofoot-2, 210-pound junior Dakota Cruber. gether as a team and achieve goals.”

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

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DAILY JOURNAL

Newcomers try to take up slack for Patriots

BY JAY TIDWELL

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Jenkins

MARSHALL ACA.

PATRIOTS FAST FACTS

Division: MAIS 1-AA 2011 record: 11-2, 3-1 division.

Coach: Bart Jenkins (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dakota Dailey, So., QB/DB First-year starter who is “pretty smart with the football, sees the field really well and has the ability to run, too,” his coach says.

Brody Martin, Sr., OL/DL Big senior lineman; graded out at 95 percent or more in every game in 2010 and 2011.

Aaron McAlexander, Sr., WR/DB/P 2,300-plus receiving yards and 20 INTs over past two season.

Last year’s Marshall Academy team was really good. Its new head coach believes this year’s may be even better.

The 2011 squad finished 11-2 and reached the MAIS AA North State championship game. The Patriots lost 11 seniors, but firstyear coach Bart Jenkins is confident recent transfers and rising underclassmen will take up the slack.

BARRY BURLESON | THE SOUTH REPORTER “It’s a very optimistic and very Dakota Dailey will get his first good outlook this year,” said start under center for the PatriJenkins, who worked the past two seasons as defensive coordi- ots this season. nator. “Everybody has improved and we’ve got more depth than pated.” we’ve had in the past.”

The sophomore will have plenty of targets. Aaron McAlexander will start OFFENSE again at receiver. “He’s a big-time Jenkins is upbeat about new quarweapon and he’ll demand double-covterback Dakota Dailey (6-foot, 175 erage,” Jenkins said. pounds).

Three newcomers will make an im“He will be one of the best quartermediate impact at receiver: Caleb Jobe backs in the state in AA,” Jenkins said. from Olive Branch, and Antonio Love (6“He has good skills, he can run and his 2, 210) and his brother Randy Love (6arm is stronger than we had antici3, 185), both seniors from Potts Camp.

TROPHY TIME

2011

Class 6A: Olive Branch Class 5A: Picayune Class 4A: Lafayette Class 3A: Charleston Class 2A: West Boliver Class 1A: Noxapater

2010

Class 6A: South Panola Class 5A: West Point Class 4A: Lafayette Class 3A: Forest Class 2A: Lumberton Class 1A: Mount Olive

2009

Class 6A: South Panola Class 5A: West Point Class 4A: St. Stanislaus Class 3A: Tylertown Class 2A: Bassfield Class 1A: Mount Olive

2008

Class 5A: Meridian Class 4A: Noxubee Co.

CHARLES A. SMITH | SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Lafayette head coach Anthony Hart holds up the 2011 Class 4A state championship trophy after completing back-to-back 16-0 seasons, a first in Mississippi high school football history. Hart stepped down after the season and is now an administrator at the school.

Class 3A: Louisville Class 2A: Baldwyn Class 1A: Puckett

A.J. Boyd (5-6, 160) will be an everydown back. Devin McGreger, a sophomore, will play at running back and receiver. Zack Pritchett returns at fullback.

On the offensive front will be Brody Martin (6-3, 255), Dalton Prichard, a 59, 325 junior who has squatted over 700 pounds, John Bradford Whisenant (6-2, 305) and Josh Mask (6-1, 235).

Stephen Elgin will play center and Jacob Driggers at guard. Vince Hoyt will switch between tightend and fullback.

DEFENSE

Jenkins said he hopes to reduce two-way play as much as possible.

McAlexander returns as safety.

Pritchett will play noseguard and Hoyt (6-1, 190) at end. All-conference linebacker Matt Rappa will play on the strongside, joined by Antonio Love in the middle and Colt Lindsey on the weakside.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Magnolia Heights 7:30 at Tunica Aca. 7:30 Immanuel 7:30 at Lee Aca. 7:30 at Carroll Aca.* 7:30 at Indianola* 7:30 North Delta* 7:30 H.W. Byers 7:00 Open 7:00 at Pillow 7:00 Kirk Aca.* 7:00 *–MAIS 1-AA

SCOUTING REPORT

Bart Jenkins replaced Barrett Donahoe, who left after one season ... Marshall Academy will host H.W. Byers in the first-ever meeting between the schools in the Patriots’ homecoming on Oct. 5.

SPECIAL TEAMS

McAlexander will likely fill punting duties. Antonio Love will handle kickoffs, with McGreger or newcomer Roy Billions making extra points and field goals.

2007

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Laurel Class 3A: Louisville Class 2A: West Bolivar Class 1A: Ray Brooks

2006

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Wayne County Class 3A: Franklin County Class 2A: East Marion Class 1A: Puckett

2005

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: West Point Class 3A: Hazlehurst Class 2A: Lumberton Class 1A: Ray Brooks

2004

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Brookhaven Class 3A: Senatobia Class 2A: Lumberton Class 1A: Mize

2003

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Wayne County Class 3A: Greene County Class 2A: Seminary Class 1A: Weir

2002

Class 5A: Wayne County Class 4A: D’Iberville Class 3A: Collins Class 2A: Taylorsville Class 1A: Weir

2001

Class 5A: Starkville Class 4A: Clarksdale Class 3A: Collins Class 2A: Ackerman Class 1A: Pelahatchie

2000

Class 5A: Moss Point Class 4A: McComb Class 3A: Magee Class 2A: Booneville Class 1A: Mize

1999

Class 5A: Madison Cent.

Class 4A: Lawrence Co. Class 3A: Forest Class 2A: Booneville Class 1A: Pelahatchie

1998

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Clarksdale Class 3A: Amory Class 2A: Taylorsville Class 1A: Smithville

1997

Class 5A: Moss Point Class 4A: Clarksdale Class 3A: Magee Class 2A: Ackerman Class 1A: Weir

1996

Class 5A: Moss Point Class 4A: Northeast Jones Class 3A: Shannon Class 2A: Bruce Class 1A: Weir

1995

Class 5A: Starkville Class 4A: Louisville Class 3A: Amory Class 2A: Taylorsville Class 1A: Mize

1994

Class 5A: Warren Central Class 4A: Starkville Class 3A: Amory Class 2A: Taylorsville Class 1A: Weir

1993

Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Louisville Class 3A: Forest Class 2A: Okolona Class 1A: Smithville

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Troopers get dose of on-the-job training just need some games under their belt.”

Needed experience will be provided by fullback Ben Johnson, who started at tight end a year ago.

A competition still remains for quarterback between two sophomores Taylor Franks and Peyton Boren.

The receiving corps will include Zavier Robinson and Channing Mitchell, with Colton Knight at tight end.

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Austin

MOOREVILLE

TROOPERS FAST FACTS

Division: 2-3A 2011 record: 8-5, 3-2 (Lost in second round of playoffs) Coach: Kevin Austin (6th year)

Graduation losses have hit the Mooreville Troopers hard, having lost 15 seniors from last season’s 8-5 squad.

“We only have three starters back on offense, and just a few more than that on defense,” Mooreville head coach Kevin Austin said. “Out defense will have to carry us early.

“Once some of our kids grow up, we’ll be fine.”

OFFENSE

Last season, running back Josh Johnson was a well oiled cog of a PLAYERS TO WATCH nicely functioning offense for the TroopJosh Johnson, Sr., RB/FS ers. This season, Johnson might start Rushed for more than 1,300 yards out being the entire offense. last season, also asked to play on “Everyone will be geared to stop the defensive side this season. him,” said Austin of the Troopers back Ben Johnson, Sr., FB/SS who rushed for more than 1,000 yards Started at tight end last season, and last season. “We’re going to try to make could take some pressure off Josh defenses find him this year.”

Johnson on offense.

A young but promising line will be Channing Mitchell, Sr., WR/OLB opening holes for Johnson, led by cenA four-year starter on defense, forter Jimmy Laymons, who started at mer starter at safety. tackle last season. Sophomores John

GOOD LUCK TROOPERS

DEFENSE

A solid unit for the Troopers begins on the line with end Jeffery Martin and lineman Matthew Gumm Mitchell and Jock Hall are the leaders at linebacker.

And in the secondary, the two Johnsons are at safety, with Robinson among those battling at cornerback.

THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL “Our defense has just a little more Josh Johnson rushed for more experience, a little more confidence,” than 1,300 yards last year and Austin said. “That core group is winning will have to carry the load again in practice right now. for the Troopers.

Levi Pennington and Dusty Smith have nailed down two of the other spots on the line.

“It’s a young line,” Austin said. “But it has the potential to be very good, they

SPECIAL TEAMS

Austin is dealing with heavy graduation losses on special teams, with Josh Johnson on kickoff returns as basically the only returning player of any significance.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Amory 7:30 at Saltillo 7:30 Hatley 7:30 Alcorn Central 7:30 at Belmont 7:30 Kossuth 7:30 at Water Valley* 7:30 Mantachie* 7:00 Aberdeen* 7:00 at South Pontotoc *7:00 Nettleton* 7:00 *–Division 2-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

Last season, Mooreville offensive play calling was so balanced that only two plays separated total passes and runs ... Potential quarterback Taylor Franks is a transfer from Tupelo ... The head coach of Division 2-3A rival Water Valley, Brad Embry, graduated high school with Kevin Austin.

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DAILY JOURNAL

Tigers will take to air with Cruber, Scott On the offensive line is 6-foot-4, 270-pound Will Morton, who hit the summer circuit to improve for his final season.

“Our offensive line is back from last year, Parker Tipton, Jimmy Fritz and Morton. It will be a strong suit for us offensively,” Scott said.

BY BRANDON SPECK DAILY JOURNAL

Every player who caught a passing touchdown for Nettleton last season, graduated.

New Nettleton coach Mike Scott Scott is back on the sidelines for the first time since 2001 and he wants to bring his spread style with him into uncharted waters for his new pass catchers.

FAST FACTS “My goal, I know it’s cliche, Division: 2-3A but I’m looking just to improve 2011 record: 3-9, 2-3 division (Lost each week, especially through1st round of state playoffs) out the non-division games,” he Coach: Mike Scott (1st year) said.

His first schedule doesn’t let PLAYERS TO WATCH up in many spots and Division Dakota Cruber, Jr., QB 2-3A has belonged to Aberdeen The 6-2, 210-pound junior threw 18 of late.

TDs last season against 6 INTs. “Our non-division schedule Will Morton, Sr., OL compares with anybody around, Scott calls the 6-4, 270-pound line- Amory, Fulton, North Pontotoc man a “likely recruit” anchoring had been solid the last several the line. years, Okolona makes the playLevert Jerningan, Jr., DB offs in their class every year. And He isn’t big (5-5, 140) but he’s a Water Valley and Aberdeen are a three-year starter expected to lead cut above most 3A teams,” he a lot of newcomers. said.

NETTLETON

TIGERS

DEFENSE

Scott had yet to make a final call on much of the defensive side of the football before practice began. The one constant has been Levert Jernigan, a junior who has started in the secondary since his freshman season.

“I found out this spring playing Houston and Shannon they’d go on the field and compete,” Scott said. “That was our goal this spring, to have that inner fire to compete and they showed they DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL have that.”

Nettleton QB Dakota Cruber The Tigers will run an even-man threw for 18 TDs last season. front.

OFFENSE

Dakota Cruber has put in work and fills out a bigger frame than he did starting as a freshman for the Tigers.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound junior will be the point of Scott’s up-tempo spread.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Returning starter D.J. Parker will against handle field goals, kickoffs and punting. The snapper job is in the air but Scott is hoping sophomore John Austin Taylor works into the role.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Caledonia 7:30 Amory 7:30 at Itawamba AHS 7:30 Okolona 7:30 Baldwyn 7:30 at North Pontotoc 7:30 at South Pontotoc* 7:30 at Aberdeen* 7:00 Water Valley* 7:00 Mantachie* 7:00 at Mooreville* 7:00 *–Division 2-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

Nettleton will likely start only three seniors to start the season ... The Tigers have had two winning seasons since playing for the 3A state title in 2006 ... QB Dakota Cruber hit the summer circuit, including the Manning passing camp ...

Nettleton is home for four of the first five weeks of the season.

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Bulldogs aiming to reach next level

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Price

NEW ALBANY

BULLDOGS FAST FACTS

Division: 2-4A 2011 record: 9-4, 4-1 division (Lost in second round of playoffs) Coach: Ron Price (5th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Spencer Day, Sr., QB Threw for 16 TDs and only 9 INTs last season.

Boston Newsome, Sr., RB The 5-9, 175-pound back can go inside and outside.

Austin Howard, Sr., TE Played offensive guard last season.

Has team’s best hands.

K! GOOD LUC

New Albany has had a great two-year run, winning 22 games, losing five and finishing 9-1 in Division 2-4A play.

One problem these days, the Bulldogs work in the same league as two-time defending state champion Lafayette.

“Lafayette’s the team to beat until somebody knocks them off,” New Albany coach Ron Price said. “All of us are reaching to get to their level.”

New Albany played the 2010 season in Division 1-4A, winning the championship. The Bulldogs finished second last season to the powerful Commodores after a move to Division 2.

OFFENSE

Spencer Day, who passed for 1,377 yards and 16 TD last season, returns to lead the way at QB. He’ll have all new receivers, however, with the exception of tight end Austin Howard.

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Three-year starter Broderick Cook starts at left tackle. He’ll be joined by tackle Jake McDonald, guards Devonte Bradley and Michael Ferrell, and center Walter Smith. Aaron Pipkin and Cedrick Buford add depth up front.

“We’ve got to have some kids step up in the passing game to open up our running game for us,” Price said.

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SCHEDULE

Aug. 17 Ripley 7:30 Aug. 24 Itawamba AHS 7:30 Aug. 31 at Pontotoc 7:30 Sept. 7 at Amory 7:30 Sept. 14 Corinth 7:30 Sept. 21 at Cleveland 7:30 Sept. 28 Senatobia* 7:30 Oct. 5 at North Pontotoc* 7:00 Oct. 12 Lafayette County* 7:00 Oct. 19 at Tunica Rosa Fort* 7:00 DEFENSE 7:00 Nine starters return on a defense that Oct. 26 at Lewisburg* *–Division 2-4A was solid last fall.

In the secondary, Chandler Nail will SCOUTING REPORT start at free safety after moving from New Albany’s players will corner in the spring. The corners are wear purple ribbon stickers on Jay Robinson and Danortis Williams. the backs of their helmets this Up front, Clay and Howard are the ends, while Bradley and Smith the tack- season in honor of the late Amanda Price, the wife of les. Hardin will play middle linebacker coach Ron Price. ... Look for along with outside backer Brady C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL Barnes. Jimmy Baldon, Vance and New- talented freshman DB C.J. New Albany running back Boston some will also play LB. King to log playing time at corNewsome ran for 1,502 yards last ner and safety. ... Fullback/LB season for the Bulldogs.

O.J. Hardin missed most of last SPECIAL TEAMS season with a torn ACL. He’s a Alex Harrison and Ethan Rainey re6-1, 235-pound bruiser with a Clay, J.T. Moore, Tyrone Vance and turn to give the Bulldogs a one-two Bryce Collins. punch in the kicking game. The punting 4.0 GPA in the classroom.

The backs are Boston Newsome, job will be decided in preseason drills. who rushed for 1,502 yards last seaJake McDonald will handle the deep son, and power runner O.J. Hardin. snaps.

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Bigger, stronger Royals tackle second season and Chance Stanley guards.

Running backs include J.T. Herring, Adam Houston and Quentin Grzesiak.

The wide receivers are more inexperienced and include basketball players out this preseason, D.J. Franklin, Chase Bone, Josh Knight and Sam Pharr.

“As far as getting stronger, we’ve got 10 guys benching over 300 pounds and one guy benching over 400 pounds,” the coach said. “Last year, we had one guy that could bench over 200 pounds.”

BY BRANDON SPECK DAILY JOURNAL

Jackson

NEW SITE

ROYALS

FAST FACTS

Division: Independent 2011 record: 0-5 Coach: Ronnie Jackson (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Koie Jackson, So., QB Jackson (6-1, 175) will make the Wing-T offense function.

Josh Hunkapillar, Jr., OT At 6-foot-5, 315 pounds, strongest player on the team.

Jacob Samples, Jr., DL Samples (5-10, 260) will be asked to help anchor a developing defensive line.

It takes time to build a football program from the ground up but new New Site coach Ronnie Jackson may be making some headway.

The Wheeler-New Site project will likely be known just as New Site next season. The bulk of this year’s team is made of Royals.

New Site will be independent this season but will be classified next season by the Mississippi High School Activities Association.

It’s a consistently young team, three seniors last season and three this season.

“We’ve just got to get these guys some confidence,” Jackson said.

Jackson, 59, coached for 20 years, took 16 off and is back in it for the 13th year his second time around.

The team saw a coach leave before the first game last season and Wheeler’s Jon David Horn filled in.

DEFENSE

Jackson expects to have some more New Site’s Koie Jackson will be depth than usual this season for a 4guiding the Royals’ new Wing-T man front, possibly enough to rotate offense this fall. some guys.

“Last year, we had five linemen, OFFENSE we’ve got 11 or 12 now,” said Jackson, Jackson is installing a Wing-T a 20-year coaching veteran named offense, something the team didn’t run coach in the spring. any last season.

The defensive spots were still to be “They’ve caught on really well,” determined during the opening weeks Jackson said. “We installed some in the of practice. spring and we’re doing some now.”

Quarterback Koie Jackson is back to SPECIAL TEAMS make it go, as is center Josh Hester, Greg Fowler has been named snaptackle Josh Hunkapillar and tight end per for the special teams unit that spent Bryson Knight. practice time determining who will hanDerek McVey is a tackle. Greg Fowler dle the kicking and punting duties.

BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Open Thrasher 7:30 Open at Immanuel 7:30 Open Middleton (Tenn.)

7:30 Open at East Union 7:00 Open Benton County 7:00 at Potts Camp 7:00 *–Independent

SCOUTING REPORT

Tackle Josh Hunkapillar is benching more than 400 pounds ... Coach Ronnie Jackson has coached at Booneville, Kossuth, New Albany, Tishomingo County, Falkner and Ripley ... New Site scored a season-high 22 points at Middleton, (Tenn.) last season.

Raiders try to regain their winning ways

BY PAUL JONES

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Merchant

SAM GAUSE | THE COMMERCIAL DISPATCH

OAK HILL

RAIDERS FAST FACTS

Division: MAIS AA, District 2 2011 record: 0-11, 0-5 in division Coach: Daniel Merchant (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Hunter Baird, Sr., QB Has experience running the ball and good fit for Wing-T. Cooper Ornam, Sr., OL Senior veteran entering third season as starter.

Joseph Caskey, Sr., DL Junior provides size and strength up front.

For the third time in the past four seasons, Oak Hill Academy will have a new head coach. Taking over a program that was winless in 2011, Raider’s head coach Daniel Merchant fully understands the challenges that lie ahead.

“I am an optimistic guy and I know it will be a challenge,” said Merchant. “But we have a good sophomore group with 15 sophomores and 11 freshman coming up that are used to winning in junior high.

“The whole team has a good work ethic and we need that to turn things around. Hard work and discipline can got a long ways.”

Also new to Merchant will be his job duties.

“Obviously, with it being my first time as a head coach it will be a challenge,” said Merchant.

“But I am excited about this challenge and I am at a good place and ready to get after it. I

will demand a lot and the players know that and we have already established that.”

OFFENSE

Despite having a heavy group of underclassmen, Merchant will inherit a large group of returning starters. Senior quarterback Hunter Bair, senior wingback Jeb Stevens and sophomore tailback Drake Riley also exhibit experience in the Raiders’ offensive attack.

“We will run a hybrid Wing-T look on offense,” said Merchant. “We will have a single-back look with two wingbacks, a tight end and a split end on the opposite side of the tight end. And we are going to try to pound the ball and run it down teams’ throats. We want to make teams stop our run game in order to stop our offense.”

The Raiders will look to run the ball, too, behind an experienced offensive line led by seniors Cooper Orman and Palmer Wyatt.

DEFENSE

Merchant also welcomes back a veteran defense with nine returning starters, and most of those returnees

are in the secondary with senior defensive back Jacob Dickens, junior cornerback Curt Huffman and sophomore cornerback Blake Henley.

On the defensive line, junior defensive end Bradley Allen and junior defensive tackle Joseph Casky return while Wyatt and Orman will also see time at defensive tackle. Stevens will also pull double duty and get many reps at middle linebacker.

“Our strength on defense should be with our skill guys,” said Merchant. “We will run a split-4 and we have good speed in the secondary and enough athletes to play some man coverage.

And Caskey is a strong fellow that will draw double teams to help us free up some linebackers.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Sophomore John Willis Stevens will be the Raiders’ go-to guy on field goals, extra points and kickoffs.

Then another underclassmen – freshman Drew Riley - is expected to be the Raiders’ punter. Merchant said Drew Riley and sophomore Drake Riley could handle kickoff returns with sophomore Samuel Harrell will also figure in with punt returns.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 25

SCHEDULE

at Newton Co. Aca. 7:30 Winston Aca. 7:30 Indianola Aca. 7:30 at Manchester Aca. 7:30 Winona Aca. 7:30 Canton Aca. 7:30 at Leake Aca. 7:30 at Heritage Aca. 7:00 New Site 7:00 Kirk Aca. 7:00 at Immanuel* 7:00 *–MAIS AA District 2

SCOUTING REPORT

Merchant spent last season as an assistant coach for Nettleton’s baseball team but also coached Nettleton defensive backs in spring practice ...Merchant has experience in the MAIS ranks and spent two seasons as Immanuel Christian’s defensive coordinator ...The Raiders have combined for just seven wins in the past four seasons ...Oak Hill Academy’s last playoff appearance was two years ago ...Assistant coach Carl Middleton is a former MSU offensive lineman.

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30F

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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31F

Vikings will lean on large junior class

BY JAY TIDWELL

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Sutton

NORTH PONTOTOC

VIKINGS FAST FACTS

Division: 2-4A 2011 record: 9-3, 3-2 division (Lost in first round of playoffs) Coach: Brian Sutton (3rd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marcus Green, Jr., WR/DB/KR Very quick junior; hard to stop in open field.

Kenyana Heard, Jr., OL/DL Powerful lineman who plays both ways; started every game as sophomore.

Peyton Finch, Jr., QB/LB Led team in tackles as sophomore; has size and strength to be potent runner at QB or play TE

North Pontotoc has set a new benchmark.

After taking over as head coach in 2010, Brian Sutton led his alma mater to a school-best third consecutive winning season. They did it again in 2011.

He’d like to continue that streak.

“You want your older guys to try to build a tradition that when the younger guys come in, it gives them a standard to uphold,” Sutton said. “They will C. TODD SHERMAN want to be a part of the success Marcus Green leads a large class that’s been going on. These older guys, who were freshman, of juniors at North Pontotoc. sophomores and juniors when this was going on, will be leaders inside linebacker, and will likely see on the field and show the time under center. younger one’s what it’s about.”

“We started repping him in the spring, and he hadn’t played any there OFFENSE before,” Sutton said. “He did a really A big junior class will help this seagood job.” son. Sutton said two of them will be Sutton said Trey Jolly (6-1, 190) will ready at quarterback. also be ready to go.

Peyton Finch (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) Austin Bray, a 5-foot-6 junior, and Jeled the team in tackles (76) last year as remy Wilkes (5-10, 205), who came out

for football this year, will work as running backs. Marcus Green, also a junior, returns as the top receiver.

Three with extensive experience are back on the offensive front. Brandon Bolin, Kenyana Heard, who started every game as a sophomore, and Chase Owens return. Lynn McCord, Storm Moore, Adrian Strong and Nick Scott, who has been primarily on defense, will finish out the line.

DEFENSE

The Vikings will operate out of a 3-5 defense. Scott, Heard, Moore, Strong, Daniel Murphy and Preston Davis will rotate along the line. “We’ll keep those guys fresh,” Sutton said.

At linebacker will be Finch, C.J. McLaughlin, Colby Graham, C.J. Coleman, Wilkes, and new arrival Wyatt Maroney.

In the defensive backfield will be Green, Ben Shannon and sophomore Greg Gambrel. Bray can switch between linebacker and defensive back.

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SCHEDULE

at Mantachie 7:30 at Ripley 7:30 East Oktibbeha 7:30 at South Pontotoc 7:30 Pontotoc 7:30 Nettleton 7:30 at Tunica Rosa Fort* 7:30 New Albany* 7:00 at Senatobia* 7:00 Lewisburg* 7:00 Lafayette County* 7:00 *–Division 2-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

Vikings were 5-0 at home in 2011. ... After allowing 30 points per game in 2010, North’s defense tightened up last year, holding opponents to 20 per game. A 55-0 win against East Oktibbeha in Week 3 was its first shutout since 2006.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Murphy Daniel will continue to handle kicking assignments. Jolly and Finch can also punt.

Have A Great Season

Keep Your Eye on the Ball

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 25

Good Luck to all Pontotoc County Schools!

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Young Chieftains prepare for rugged 1-2A

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Aldridge

OKOLONA

CHIEFTAINS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-2A 2011 record: 5-8, 2-3 (Lost in second round of playoffs) Coach: Calvin Aldridge (4th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tyson Eddie, So., DE Smart player who takes care of the football.

Zack Pierce, Sr., OL/NT Will basically be on the field for every play for Okolona.

Jacolbi Heard, Jr., WR Fearless player who is also the backup quarterback.

Okolona head football coach Calvin Aldridge likes to talk about the history of Okolona football.

That historical review eventually comes to how tough Division 1-2A is – with Okolona, Baldwyn, Bruce, and Calhoun City all having state championship trophies on a shelf someplace.

In the effort to add to Okolona’s history, Aldridge feels the 2012 effort of the Chieftains will be powered by youth.

“We’ve got some young kids that we’ll have to count on,” Aldridge said. “When we get healthy, we could become a good football team.”

OFFENSE

Tyson Eddie takes over at quarterback to guide some potentially dangerous options.

“He takes of the football for you,” Aldridge said. “He’s also aggressive, and has worked hard this summer on getting his steps down.”

The offensive line could measure up nicely, with Zach Pierce, Robert Herring, Terrance Ealy, Zach McGee, Josh Ford, and Parris Mabry, though McGee and Mabry could miss the season opener.

Tight ends will be Jay Collins and Curtis Green. Jacoby Heard, Jeremy McIntosh, and Cyrus Kyles will be passing targets for Eddie.

DEFENSE

A solid linebacking group will have Rogers and Terrance Ford on the inside, and Eddie and Rod Jones on the outside.

Aldridge has a deep defensive backfield, with McIntosh, Heard, Kyles, and BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL J. C. Buchanan as part of the rotation.

Everett Brooks ran for more than Pierce will anchor the defense at 900 yards last year. nose tackle.

“We’ll have to do a lot of platooning A nice option for Eddie will be Hbecause of the players on offense and back Everett Brooks, who rushed for defense,” Aldridge said. more than 900 yards last season, and will be a receiving option. Terry Rogers SPECIAL TEAMS provides some experience at fullback, Everett Brooks is slated to handle with sophomore running back Dequin punting and extra point kicking, with Babbit having seen limited action a year Babbit kicking off. Reddell Fells will be ago. the snapper.

William Johnson also provides some Also, Brooks and Terrance Ford are depth in the backfield. penciled in as return specialists.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Houlka 7:30 East Webster 7:30 Houston 7:30 at Nettleton 7:30 at Amory 7:30 at Itawamba AHS 7:30 Hatley* 7:30 at Baldwyn* 7:00 Calhoun City* 7:00 at Bruce* 7:00 Walnut* 7:00 *–Division 1-2A

SCOUTING REPORT

Sophomore running back Dequin Babbit gained 210 yards in just one half of a contest last season in limited game action ... Running back William Johnson was a state powerlifting champion two years ago ... Okolona lost in the playoffs to HollandaleSimmons last season.

Chargers hungry after missing postseason

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Hill

OXFORD

CHARGERS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-5A 2011 record: 5-6, 3-4 division (no playoffs) Coach: Johnny Hill (20th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Parker Adamson, Sr., QB Smart player who completed 46 percent of his passes as a junior for more than 1,500 yards.

Toler Presley, Sr., WR Adamson’s go-to receiver after catching 19 passes last year, the most of any returning player.

Jarquis Adams, Sr., LB Two-year starter recorded 62 tackles last season.

The Oxford Chargers found themselves in an unfamiliar position last year after missing the state playoffs for the first time in several seasons.

That apparently didn’t sit well with the Chargers, and coach Johnny Hill has taken notice of that over the past few months.

“I’ve been coaching 30 something years and this is probably the best summer workout we’ve had,” Hill said. “The kids have really worked hard and we’re where we need to be.”

Hill expects another crazy season in Division 1-5A as he begins his 20th season at the helm of the Chargers.

“Last year, our division was from top to bottom probably as good as I’ve ever seen a division,” he said. “There’s not a weak sister in our division.”

OFFENSE

Parker Adamson will lead a team with a good mix of youth and experience from the quarterback position.

receiver in Toler Presley and 6-foot-4 tight end Xavier Pegues.

Olive Branch transfer Jarius Barnes looks to step in and make an immediate impact at running back after the graduation of 2,000-plus yard rusher Mont Dean.

Four-year starter Clifton Smith returns to lead the offensive line at center.

DEFENSE

Hill expects his defense to feed off the energy of 6-1, 320-pound senior defensive tackle Joel Forrester.

“He’s kinda your throwback football player that plays from sideline to sideline,” he said. “His motor runs full C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL speed for four quarters.”

Parker Adamson returns for his Sophomore Mike McGhee and senior senior year at quarterback for Jarquis Adams will hold their own as the Chargers. linebackers.

Luke Leary, Kirk Laughter and ChristAdamson completed 15 touchdowns ian Sanchez return to the line after passes as a junior, but must improve on starting their sophomore seasons. interceptions thrown after tossing 10 last season.

SPECIAL TEAMS “He came on towards the end of the Juniors Cody Mills and Chadwick year and I think he’s got a shot to play Lamar have Hill feeling good about the college ball somewhere,” said Hill. “He next two years on special teams. doesn’t get rattled very easily and is Mills is an excellent punter and cool under pressure.” place-kicker while Lamar will handle Adamson has legit targets at wide the long snapping.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 30 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

Grenada 7:30 Charleston 7:30 Lafayette 7:30 at Senatobia 7:30 Open at Center Hill* 7:30 New Hope* 7:30 Lake Cormorant* 7:00 at Hernando* 7:00 Saltillo* 7:00 at West Point* 7:00 at Clarksdale* 7:00 *–Division 1-5A

SCOUTING REPORT

Depth-wise, the Chargers are thin with 55 players on the roster compared to a normal year with 75 … Oxford will host defending state champion Charleston (Class 3A) and Lafayette (Class 4A) in backto-back weeks beginning Aug. 24 … Hill said his team has done a good job avoiding the hype of their regionally televised game against Lafayette.

“Our focus has been to get in shape and get the first one out of the way,” he said.

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PONTOTOC

WARRIORS

Dilworth, who rushed for nearly 1,300 yards last season. Fullback Will Dillard was the second leading rusher last season and is back as a senior. Up front, senior Drew Holliday is the lone returning starter. At receiver, Michael Walters is the lone returning senior. Senior Jacoby Cunningham is a newcomer on the other side.

DAILY JOURNAL

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-4A 2011 record: 6-5, 2-3 division (no playoffs) Coach: Ken Byars (2nd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Jeb Millender, Sr., K/P Senior kicker should be well positioned for a scholarship offer after an impressive prep career.

Deonte Dilworth, Sr., RB The senior (5-9, 165) won a second place medal in the 2012 state powerlifting meet.

Cole Strawn, Sr., DL Strawn (6-3, 280) is lone returning defensive lineman.

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33F

Warriors ready to navigate tough division

BY BRANDON SPECK

Byars

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

Kickers tend to get the publicity when things go bad but the Pontotoc Warriors have a kicker who can make a lot of things go good.

Senior kicker and punter Jeb Millender is as reliable as they get. And as a new-look offensive front takes shape and the Warriors prepare for one of the tougher divisions in Class 4A, Millender could be as useful punting as he will be within distance of the goalposts.

The other key in that scenario is third-year starting long snapper Andrew Ashe, a junior.

“We’re very fortunate to have the kicker and punter we have,” second-year coach Ken Byars said. “It’s always helpful to have guys back who have been doing it a couple of years. We’re very fortunate to have that right now.”

There are plenty of pieces to the puzzle, senior running back Deonte Dilworth one of them, a puzzle that requires navigating a packed 1-4A that includes

DEFENSE

Pontotoc returns one starter on the defensive line, tackle Cole Strawn, so BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL two ends and a tackle were high on the Pontotoc’s Deonte Dilworth ran priority list for the opening practices. All for almost 1,300 yards last year the linebackers return, led by Landon and excelled in powerlifting.

Tutor. Reid Tackett, Nicky Martin and Cy Holley are also backers up for playing Amory, Corinth, Itawamba and time.

Shannon.

The secondary is intact with seniors De’Shun King and Kyle White and senior OFFENSE safeties Walter and Shunce Westbrook.

Pontotoc is working three guys at “We’ve got a big senior class coming quarterback, senior Tre Freeman, junior back, a lot of experience on that side of Caleb Warren and senior Marcus Reed. the ball,” Byars said.

“The two who don’t start at quarterback will be on the field at wide reSPECIAL TEAMS ceiver and defensive back,” Byars said.

Jeb Millender is as solid a kicker and “They won’t be on the sideline waiting punter as there is and is a college their turn.” prospect. Snapper Andrew Ashe is a The backfield returns senior tailback two-year starter back as a junior.

Good Luck to all Pontotoc County Schools!

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Velma Jackson 7:30 Hernando 7:30 New Albany 7:30 at Ripley 7:30 at North Pontotoc 7:30 Lafayette County 7:30 at Shannon* 7:30 Tishomingo County* 7:00 Itawamba AHS* 7:00 at Corinth* 7:00 at Amory* 7:00 *–Division 1-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

Pontotoc will run a 4-3 defense ... Senior quarterback Marcus Reed started as a sophomore, transferred to New Albany, and is back at Pontotoc for his senior season ... Three of the four playoff teams from Division 1-4A last season were all 3-2 in the division ... Senior linebacker Landon Tutor led the team in tackles last season.

Have A Great Season

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

Cardinals get to show off new home field

POTTS CAMP

CARDINALS

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Stone

FAST FACTS

Division: Independent 2011 record: 7-4 Coach: Shane Stone (4th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Brantley Harris, Sr., WR/FS Good attitude and chance for playing at the next level.

Jamarcus Foster, Sr., RB/MLB Just under 1,000 yards rushing last season.

Jordan Harris, So., QB/OLB As running back last season, ran for just under 1,000 yards; moved to quarterbackthis year to get hands on ball more.

Football can be a wonderfully complicated sport.

Or it can be oh so simple, like playing a home game for the very first time.

Simple will be just fine for the Potts Camp Cardinals in the 2012 season.

Entering their fourth year fielding a football squad, the Cardinals will be able to enjoy the simple act hosting a home football game on Aug. 17 when they host H. W. Byers.

“It will be great,” Potts Camp head coach Shane Stone said.

“Byers is a division opponent in other sports, so it will be like a rivalry game for us.

“I feel like the place will be packed that night.”

On the field, the Cardinals will be playing its second season of a full independent, varsity schedule, and look to continue their winning ways after a 7-4 effort last season.

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CLASS 6A

First round Olive Branch 49, Clinton 14 NW Rankin 28, Southaven 20 South Panola 42, Murrah 14 Madison Central 38, Tupelo 21 Meridian 35, D’Iberville 7 Brandon 24, Ocean Springs 7 Petal 42, Gulfport 21 Biloxi 31, Hattiesburg 6 Quarterfinals Olive Branch 24, NW Rankin 3 Madison Central 28, S. Panola 14 Meridian 16, Brandon 0 Petal 38, Biloxi 27 Semifinals Olive Branch 40, Madison 35 Petal 23, Meridian 14 Championship Olive Branch 35, Petal 34

CLASS 5A

First round Center Hill 22, Provine 18 Ridgeland 52, Clarksdale 20 West Point 42, Neshoba 14 Starkville 42, Hernando 28 Pearl Central 29, Wayne Co. 28 Long Beach 31, Brookhaven 28 Pascagoula 28, Pearl 21 Picayune 35, McComb 6

DAILY JOURNAL

Quarterfinals Ridgeland 10, Center Hill 9 Starkville 20, West Point 14 Pearl River 34, Long Beach 7 Picayune 20, Pascagoula 14 Semifinals Starkville 28, Ridgeland 7 Picayune 45, Pearl River 10 Championship Picayune 38, Starkville 21

OFFENSE

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

Last season, Jordon Harris and Jamarcus Foster were a formidable running back tandem, rushing for more than 900 years, each. This season, Harris, a sophomore, moves to quarterback, but Stone does not expect the pair to be any less of a threat.

“We feel Harris is the best athlete on the field for us, so we wanted to get him the ball on more plays,” Stone said.

Potts Camp returns eight starters on offense.

Senior Brantley Harris will be a threat at receiver, while the line will be anchored by T. J. Scales, Alex Beard, and Shunn Smith.

SCOUTING REPORT

DEFENSE

As with most small schools, playing both sides of the football is a necessity.

For Potts Camp, Brantley Harris at free safety, and Foster at middle linebacker will be key for the unit.

“They all move so well, and get to the ball pretty fast,” Stone said. “We have good experience where we need it.”

Beard should anchor the line, while Jordon Harris goes at outside linebacker.

DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL

Potts Camp’s Jordon Harris will move to quarterback after gaining almost 1,000 yards last year while at running back.

2011 MHSAA PLAYOFF SCORES

Cleveland 24, New Albany 21 Lafayette 53, Greenwood 8 Louisville 35, Corinth 17 Laurel 42, Greene County 20 Tylertown 35, Mendenhall 9 Quitman 35, Florence 14 South Pike 36, Forrest Co. 28 Quarterfinals Amory 56, Cleveland 21 Lafayette 28, Louisville 6 Laurel 21, Tylertown 18 CLASS 4A Quitman 18, South Pike 16 First round Semifinals Amory 63, Gentry 30 Lafayette 35, Amory 7 Noxubee 42, North Pontotoc 6 Laurel 28, Quitman 15 New Albany 21, Houston 17 Championship Cleveland 40, Itawamba AHS 36 Lafayette 39, Laurel 29 Lafayette 46, Leake Central 7 Greenwood 19, Shannon 6 CLASS 3A Corinth 38, Yazoo County 6 First round Louisville 42, Senatobia 14 Kossuth 25, Palmer 8 Laurel 49, Lawrence County 21 Mooreville 17, McClain 7 Greene Co. 35, Port Gibson 6 Aberdeen 36, Velma Jackson 9 Mendenhall 25, Bay 14 Charleston 60, Belmont 6 Tylertown 50, Newton County 0 Water Valley 45, Ripley 21 Florence 38, St. Stanislaus 33 Booneville 21, Byhalia 6 Quitman 21, Purvis 14 East Side 62, Nettleton 27 South Pike 26, NE Jones 20 Philadelphia 32, Jefferson Co. 0 Forrest County 38, Magee 14 West Marion 36, Raleigh 20 Second Round Collins 14, Morton 13 Amory 21, Noxubee County 20 Hazlehurst 41, Heidelberg 12

SCHEDULE

H.W. Byers 7:30 DeSoto Central 7:30 Open at Strayhorn 7:30 Mantachie 7:30 Rossville Aca. (Tenn.) 7:30 Middleton (Tenn.)

7:30 Immanuel 7:00 Union County 7:00 Open 7:00 New Site 7:00 *–Independent

Forest 55, Sumrall 34 Franklin Co. 21, SE Lauderdale 7 Wilkinson Co. 26, Kemper 18 Seminary 74, McLaurin 36 Second Round Kossuth 21, Mooreville 17 Charleston 20, Aberdeen 0 Water Valley 23, Winona 14 East Side 40, Booneville 14 Philadelphia 22, W. Marion 14 Hazlehurst 21, Collins 14 Forest 19, Franklin County 14 Seminary 63, Wilkinson Co. 28 Quarterfinals Charleston 58, Kossuth 0 East Side 32, Water Valley 27 Hazlehurst 18, Philadelphia 13 Seminary 21, Forest 20 Semifinals Charleston 44, East Side 24 Hazlehurst 46, Seminary 28 Championship Charleston 34, Hazlehurst 8

CLASS 2A

First Round Calhoun City 54, Coahoma Co. 6 South Delta 20, Eupora 14 Simmons 8, Hamilton 6 Okolona 7, Kennedy 0 Ackerman 21, O’Bannon 0

Potts Camp will have 10 seniors back who played last season, good experience for such a young program ... In 2013, Potts Camp will play a regular division schedule in football ... The new football field also has a eight-lane track around it, and Potts Camp is scheduled to host its division meet there in the spring.

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Broad Street 22, Baldwyn 14 Bruce 44, West Tallahatchie 0 Union 35, Enterprise (Clarke) 6 North Forrest 27, Wesson 21 Taylorsville 39, Leake County 0 St. Joseph 17, Lumberton 16 Mize 32, Scott Central 6 Bay Springs 32, Lake 8 Bassfield 47, Puckett 0 Second round Calhoun City 41, South Delta 6 Simmons 14, Okolona 13 Ackerman 29, Broad Street 0 West Bolivar 15, Bruce 14 East Marion 50, Union 20 North Forrest 21, Taylorsville 19 St. Joseph 20, Mize 18 Bassfield 41, Bay Springs 20 Quarterfinals Calhoun City 19, Simmons 0 West Bolivar 34, Ackerman 3 East Marion 41, North Forest 27 Bassfield 41, St. Joseph 21 Semifinals W. Bolivar 32, Calhoun City 14 East Marion 23, Bassfield 23 Championship West Bolivar 26, East Marion 7

CLASS 1A

First Round Vardaman 35, St. Joseph 21 Durant 41, Smithville 7 Ray Brooks 32, Falkner 13 Shaw 52, Byers 0 Noxapater 56, Dexter 6 Stringer 33, Pelahatchie 0 Nanih Waiya 47, Bogue Chitto 0 Cathedral 43, West Oktibbeha 8 Quarterfinals Vardaman 31, Durant 28 Shaw 18, Brooks 12 Noxapater 28, Stringer 27 Cathedral 33, Nanih Waiya 19 Semifinals Shaw 12, Vardaman 6 Noxapater 54, Cathedral 39 Championship Noxapater 21, Shaw 10

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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35F

Cook brings high-flying offense to Tigers OFFENSE

BY BRANDON SPECK

It starts with James, a senior.

“He’s a good leader. He’s a winner.

He’s a competitor. We’ll go as far as he goes,” Cook said.

Up front is Jamal Braddock at left tackle, who Cook calls “a quiet leader having a good camp who plays every play as hard as he can.”

Cook said he has also been impressed with senior Montrell Gray, who will start at running back. At receiver, Ralph Green is a 6-foot-3 senior.

DAILY JOURNAL

Cook

RIPLEY

TIGERS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-3A 2011 record: 4-7, 2-3 division (lost first round of state playoffs) Coach: Chad Cook (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Cody James, Sr., QB Rushed for 555 yards last season.

Out of the gun this season.

Keeton Hamilton, Sr., OL/DL Was third on team with 72 tackles last season.

James Walters, Jr., OLB/SS Coach Chad Cook said one of his assistants commented, “If we get 11 playing the way James plays, with just reckless abandon, we could be pretty good on defense.”

New Ripley coach Chad Cook carried a brand new offense to Ripley.

But his new players have plenty of leeway to get it down.

“I always try to start everybody from what I call ‘zero.’ I don’t really care what happened before I got here or where you played before I got here,” Cook said. “What I’ve been trying to teach these guys is ‘you find out what you’re made out of when you’re tired.’”

Cook says he has been impressed with improvements in intensity and effort from where it was in the spring but admittedly it isn’t where he wants it.

The new offense will function 90 percent from the gun with a running back and tight end for senior quarterback Cody James.

Cook’s teams have a reputation of being in better shape than opponents. He likes full intensity every play from snap to whistle.

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DEFENSE

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Ripley quarterback Cody James “He comes to work every day, anwill run the offense out of the other one who leads by example and shotgun this season. does what we ask him to do and plays 110 percent every day,” Cook said.

“Either you’re on somebody or James Walter, a junior strong safety, you’re chasing somebody,” Cook has drawn praise from Cook for his said. “Overall, I’ve been pleased. consistent play in practice.

I don’t have to tell them technique over and over or what the SPECIAL TEAMS play was. It’s just the intensity Cook is looking at several different level we’ve got to build up. That’s kickers, two different punters and about the biggest thing right now.” eight different return guys.

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SCOUTING REPORT

QB Cody James is in his third offense in four years ...

RB Montrell Gray has been a fullback his whole career and will be standing in his newlook backfield as a running back ... New coach Chad Cook spent the last five seasons as the head coach at Shannon and made the playoffs each season.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Experienced Tigers aim to win close ones

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Byrd

SALTILLO

TIGERS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-5A 2011 record: 2-9, 0-7 division (no playoffs) Coach: Pat Byrd (3rd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Andrew Soper, Sr., QB/LB Transfer from TCPS crucial to Tigers’ offensive hopes.

A.J. Rye, Jr., WR The junior gives the team a solid return threat.

Harley Rider, Sr., OL The senior guard has one of the area’s best names.

There is a pretty good chance Saltillo will not have a freshman player on its varsity roster this season.

That suits Tigers’ third-year coach Pat Byrd just fine.

“We won’t have a freshman on the varsity for the first time since I’ve been here,” the coach said.

“They will be able to play junior varsity.”

Byrd welcomes back 18 of 22 starters from last season’s ballclub that finished 2-9 overall, but was in contention in all but one game last fall.

“I think in every game, with the exception of West Point, we had a chance,” he said. “We lost to Lake Cormorant in the last 30 seconds. We lost in overtime to Oxford.

“We’ve got to figure out ways to win those games. I think it comes with maturity, figuring out what to do in those situations.”

|

CLASS 1A

Region 1 Biggersville Coldwater Falkner Smithville Thrasher Vardaman Houlka Tupelo Christian H.W. Byers Region 2 Drew Hunter Durant McAdams Montgomery Ray Brooks Shaw St. Joe, Greenville French Camp Coffeeville Region 3 West Oktibbeha East Oktibbeha Ethel Nanih Waiya Noxapater Weir West Lowndes Sebastopol Pelahatchie

Region 4 Bogue Chitto Dexter Mt. Olive Cathedral Salem Univ. Christian St. Aloysius Hinds AHS Stringer Resurrection

CLASS 2A

Region 1 Walnut Baldwyn Bruce Calhoun City Okolona Hatley

Region 2 Ackerman Eupora East Webster Williams-Sullivan J. Z. George Hamilton Region 3 Strayhorn Coahoma County Coahoma AHS

Broad Street JF Kennedy West Tallahatchie Region 4 West Bolivar O’Bannon Riverside Simmons S. V. Marshall South Delta Region 5 Leake County Pisgah Scott Central Lake Union Region 6 Enterprise 7 Wesson Loyd Star St. Joe, Madison Amite County Puckett Region 7 Clarkdale Bay Springs Enterprise 5 Mize Taylorsville

BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL

Andrew Soper is batting for playing time at quarterback.

be taking snaps directly under center.

“He has always been in the shotgun,” Byrd said. “It will be completely different for him.”

Dee Irby, Colby Hall and A.J. Hunt will rotate at tailback while the fullbacks will be Jalen Hadley and Ian Huckaby.

Hunt, Hall, Tollison, when he’s not at QB, will join A.J. Rye and Gage Fidram at the wide receiver spots. Worth Robinson is the tight end.

Cayson Coleman is the center, Brock Cates, Harley Rider and Malik Marshall the guards and Karter Meeks, Dylan Kemp and Carson Crooks the tackles.

DEFENSE

CLASS 3A

SCHEDULE

at Itawamba AHS 7:30 Mooreville 7:30 Baldwyn 7:30 at Booneville 7:30 Open at New Hope* 7:30 Clarksdale* 7:30 at Center Hill* 7:00 West Point* 7:00 at Oxford* 7:00 Hernando* 7:00 at Lake Cormorant* 7:00 *–Division 1-5A

SCOUTING REPORT

The Tigers are 0-14 the last two seasons in division play.

Hadley, Kemp and Meeks will rotate OFFENSE up front with Wesley Ragin, Tarvis John- Byrd knows it’s a trend that needs to change. “There’s no The Tigers got a boost in the offsea- son and Jacob Poppelreiter. pill, no magic potion, no forson when former Tupelo Christian Prep The linebackers are Justin Momula,” he said. ... RB Colby quarterback Andrew Soper transferred roschak, Grant Garrison, Jaquoyia in. The former 1A standout, a senior, will Pounds and Ryan Oliver. Hill and Huck- Hall will also play TE and WR this season. ... L Dylan Kemp, battle for the starting QB job against aby will also play behind the line. junior Tyler Tollison.

Hall, Hunt, Rye and Tollison will be in a 6-31⁄3, 310-pound sophomore, will play on both sides.

Byrd isn’t opposed to using both the secondary. ... TE Worth Robinson can also players in the key role. split and play WR. “That’s something we haven’t had SPECIAL TEAMS here,” he said. “It’s a good thing to have Rye is the kicker and Tori Gifford will two who can play.” handle the punting. Hill is expected to The biggest obstacle for Soper will return as the deep snapper.

MHSAA 12 FOOTBALL REGIONS

Region 8 Bassfield East Marion Lumberton North Forrest Richton

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

Region 4 East Side Leflore County Leland McClain Velma Jackson Ruleville

Region 1 Alcorn Central Belmont Booneville Holly Springs Kossuth Ripley

Region 5 Choctaw Central Heidelberg Kemper County Philadelphia SE Lauderdale Newton

Region 2 Aberdeen Mooreville Nettleton South Pontotoc Water Valley Mantachie

Region 6 Bailey Forest McLaurin Morton Raleigh St. Andrew’s

Region 3 Byhalia Charleston Independence M. S. Palmer North Panola Winona

Region 7 Crystal Springs Franklin County Hazlehurst Jefferson County Prentiss Wilkinson County

Region 8 Perry Central Seminary St. Patrick Sumrall Pass Christian West Marion Collins

CLASS 4A

Region 1 Corinth Tishomingo Itawamba Amory Shannon Pontotoc

Region 2 North Pontotoc New Albany Lafayette Senatobia Rosa Fort Lewisburg Region 3 Cleveland Amanda Elzy Greenwood Humphreys Co. Gentry Yazoo County

|

Region 4 Houston Caledonia Kosciusko Louisville Noxubee Leake Central Region 5 NE Lauderdale West Lauderdale Newton County Quitman NE Jones Laurel Region 6 Germantown Raymond Richland Florence Mendenhall Magee Port Gibson Region 7 Columbia Lawrence Co. North Pike South Pike Tylertown Purvis

Region 8 Bay Forrest Co. AHS Greene County Poplarville St. Stanislaus Vancleave

CLASS 5A

Region 1 Center Hill Hernando Clarksdale Lake Cormorant Saltillo West Point New Hope Oxford Region 2 Yazoo City Canton Starkville Neshoba Lanier Callaway Provine Ridgeland Region 3 Wingfield Pearl Brookhaven

McComb West Jones South Jones Wayne County Stone County Region 4 East Central Moss Point Pascagoula Gautier Pearl River Central Picayune Long Beach West Harrison

CLASS 6A

Region 1 DeSoto Central Horn Lake Olive Branch Southaven Columbus Grenada South Panola Tupelo Region 2 Greenville Warren Central Vicksburg Clinton

Madison Central Jim Hill Murrah NW Rankin Region 3 Natchez Forest Hill Terry Brandon Meridian Oak Grove Petal Hattiesburg Region 4 Ocean Springs D’Iberville George County St. Martin Gulfport Hancock Biloxi Harrison Central

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Carter brings arena-style to Red Raiders

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Carter

SHANNON

RED RAIDERS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-4A 2011 record: 5-6, 3-2 division (Lost 1st round of state playoffs) Coach: Darryl Carter (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Devan Gilleylen, Sr., QB/LB Will start on defense and could see duty at QB along with Jon Pugh.

Nick Clark, Sr., TE The 6-4, 240-pounder is a surehanded target.

Nick Gill, Jr., NG At 6-3, 325, expected to be a force in the team’s 3-3-5 defensive lineup.

Shannon first-year head coach Darryl Carter hopes his wide-open offensive style produces enough points to post plenty of victories this season.

Carter, who returned to Lee County following a successful three-year run at Kemper County, promises a point-producing, uptempo, arena ball-style attack.

“We’re a spread team that will run the ball,” he said. “We want to be uptempo like Oregon.

You’ll see a lot of arena stuff.”

Carter knows plenty about the 50-yard indoor game, having played quarterback and wide receiver for Tupelo’s arena entries – the FireAnts and Mudcats.

OFFENSE

Returning starter Jon Pugh and linebacker Devan Gilleylen entered the fall battling at quarterback.

“It’s good to have two quarterbacks you can rely on,” Carter said. “Both are tough kids. I’d like to find one guy. I’ve been up front with them.”

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Gilleylen is also the Red Raiders’ top returning linebacker, which means he could be splitting duties on both sides of the ball.

Sophomore Deiamonte Pounds opened some eyes in the spring with his play at running back. Chavis Dilworth, a 4.4 40 guy, returns at receiver.

Quavay Kolheim and Jalen Thomas return at wide receiver while 6-foot-4 tight end Nick Clark is back.

Up front, guard Derriaus Conway and tackles Steven Metcalf and Isaiah Wren return. Conway started at center last season.

DEFENSE

Shannon worked out of a 3-3-5 alignment in the spring and plans to stick with it.

“We’re not big and we’re not small,” Carter said. “We’re going to fly around out of that.”

Nose guard Nick Gill, who sat out last season with a knee injury (ACL), was a standout performer in the spring. The 325-pounder will be flanked by tackles Brenan Cayson, Kentavius Smith and Clark.

Zack Finnie, Cedric Nabors and Thomas Walton join Gilleylen at line-

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 C. TODD SHERMAN | DAILY JOURNAL

Jon Pugh is battling for the starting QB job at Shannon. backer.

Dilworth, who plays corner and safety heads up the secondary. Kolheim and Brandon Jackson are safeties and Quay Smith and Benarius Smith are corners.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Noah Carlton, a newcomer, and Walton will handle the place-kicking chores. Pugh is the punter and Gilleylen the deep snapper.

Quay Smith, Benarius Smith and Chavis Dilworth, along with others, will handle returns.

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SCOUTING REPORT

On the OL, guard Devontae Harper and new center Harris Driskell worked their way into the lineup during spring drills. ... Carter, a former Tupelo assistant, was 23-13 in 3 seasons, including 3 playoff appearances, at Kemper County. ...

Non-division games include 3A power Aberdeen, defending 4A champion Lafayette and 6A rival Tupelo. ... Carter has preached discipline – “being sound, in shape and making no self-inflicted mistakes” – to his team in the spring and fall.

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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39F

Seminoles hope to build on strong finish After key losses on both the offensive and defensive lines, a trio of juniors – Tanner Fears, Joseph Kuykendall and Matt Morrow – are expected to anchor the offensive line.

BY MELISSA MEADOR MONROE JOURNAL

A slow start to last season and re-evaluation of key positions may be just the thing Smithville needed going into this season.

“It was basically like us coming into a new team last year with so many young kids starting,” said Smithville coach Bubba Tacker, whose Seminoles began the season 2-3 before going 5-2 and falling in the first round of the playoffs at Durant.

“It took us several games to evaluate our players and find out who was going to be Friday night players.”

Tacker said figuring out the right positions for several key players led to their late season success and would be a strength going into this year.

“We had to make some changes and put some people in some different spots because they just weren’t suited for where we had them,” Tacker said. “That’s key for us, putting people in the right spots.”

Tacker

SMITHVILLE

SEMINOLES FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 7-5, 6-2 division (Lost in first round of playoffs) Coach: Bubba Tacker (7th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Turner Sanderson, Sr., FB/LB One of five seniors, rushed for eight touchdowns last season.

J.T. Pitts, Sr., WR/FS Key leader who led the Seminoles in tackles last season and caught five touchdowns.

Drew Lann, Jr., QB/FS/P Second-year junior quarterback who will also have punting duties.

DEFENSE

Pitts, who led the Seminoles in tackles and picked up four interceptions last season, returns at strong safety while Sanderson will be back at middle linebacker. Austin Craig and Cole Williams are expected to complete the linebacking core.

Neil Knight, Hunter Bennett and Brad Bedford will complete the secondary, TOM CARROLL | CARROLLSPORT.COM while Kuykendall, Morrow and Fears Smithville QB Drew Lann is back will also be key on the defensive line. for his second season at QB. Junior Tyler Hood is expected to see time at outside linebacker, as well as at OFFENSE wide receiver.

Most of the key players on offense from last season return for the SemiSPECIAL TEAMS noles. Second-year quarterback Drew A key loss last season for Smithville Lann will return to take the snaps, and was Jake McClary, who handled kicks. senior wide receiver J.T. Pitts will conJunior Kyle Knight is likely to take over tinue to be his main target. the role, though Tacker said that was Fullback Turner Sanderson and tailstill up in the air. back Tristan Hawkins are expected to Lann will handle punting duties, and be a big one-two punch in the running Pitts and Neil Knight should handle kick game again this year. returns.

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All four of last year’s seniors for the Seminoles were on the offensive/defensive lines ...

Smithville only has back-toback road games once this season, with an open week between them on Sept. 21 ...

Last season’s 7-6 loss to Hatley was the first in 16 years against the county rival ... The Seminoles were 5-1 in their last six games of the regular season last year.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Cougars bigger, stronger and rededicated terback and Josh Estes will be running back. Evan Kidd, Davius Wilson, Keith Flowers and Kody Long will work as receivers.

Wesley Ross, a freshman, will be backup at quarterback and running back.

BY JAY TIDWELL

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Chism

SOUTH PONTOTOC

COUGARS FAST FACTS

Division: 2-3A 2011 record: 3-8, 1-4 division (no playoffs) Coach: Roger Chism (3rd year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Alex Pannell, Sr., QB/CB Returning senior who knows the offensive scheme well.

Evan Kidd, Sr., WR/S 6-1, 175 senior with speed; added 30 pounds in off-season weight program.

Matt Collums, Sr., P/K/WR/CB Strong leg and consistently hitting 35-yard FGs.

South Pontotoc has hit a growth spurt.

The Cougars started pre-season workouts with only seven seniors on their 52-player roster.

But coach Roger Chism, in his third year in charge of the program, said they are all bigger and stronger.

On the offensive line, for example, players have packed on from 20 to 35 pounds. And he said it’s all muscle.

“We had to get stronger in the weight room, and we dedicated ourselves to that,” said Chism, who started the school’s powerlifting program 14 years ago.

“We had to get more physical, and we’re doing that. We’ve had a year of growth and put on a lot of mass.”

OFFENSE

On the line, left tackle John Smith has bulked up from 5-foot-10, 246 pounds as a sophomore to 6-foot, 280 as a junior. Center Rodney Parrish

DEFENSE

The Cougars will operate out of a 3-3 scheme. On the front, Xavier Bean and Williams will be at the ends and Tyler Lindsey – who went from 5-7, 247 as a sophomore to 5-9, 275 as a junior – will stay at nose tackle. Trent Priest, Ryan Roberts and Estes will play as linebackers.

In the backfield will be Wilson, Pannell, Zack Bagwell, Matt Collums and newcomer Elshaddi Gregory, a junior.

TIM TUTOR | PONTOTOC PROGRESS Wes Park and Tucker Babb will also QB Alex Pennell returns for his provide support as defensive backs. senior season and will direct the Clay Hood, Kedrick Collier, Stanley Cougars’ offense.

Black and Austin Lewis will be the first reserves off the bench. added 25 pounds of muscle. Wesley Parker, Matt Lewis, and Justin Hyland SPECIAL TEAMS will complete the front. Drew Roye, Collums, a senior, will handle punting Malique Williams and Ryan Roberts will and kicking assignments. Andrew rotate at tight end.

Rackley, a freshman, will be longsnapAlex Pannell will start again at quar- per.

Have A Great Season

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Houston 7:30 Ethel 7:30 Ripley 7:30 North Pontotoc 7:30 at North Panola 7:30 at Baldwyn 7:30 Nettleton* 7:30 at Water Valley* 7:00 at Mantachie* 7:00 Mooreville* 7:00 Aberdeen* 7:00 *–Division 2-3A

SCOUTING REPORT

The Cougars lost their first three quarterbacks to injury in last year’s non-division game vs. North Panola on Sept. 16, but won 25-24. ... Lineman Tyler Lindsey won the 2012 state power-lifting championship in the 275-pound weight class with a 585-pound squat, 285 bench press and deadlift of 635. ... South Pontotoc will wear new flat silver helmets with “Cougars” in script.

Good Luck To All Schools!

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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41F

Yellow Jackets loaded for another title run

BY PAUL JONES

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

After an average first season at Starkville High School, head Mitchell coach Jamie Mitchell got the program back in familiar territory and that meant playing for state championships.

Mitchell led the Jackets to the Class 5A state title game in 2011 FAST FACTS and is looking to take that final Division: 2-5A step this fall.

2011 record: 12-3, 7-0 division (Lost “I think after our first year in Class 5A championship game) here, we really stepped up and Coach: Jamie Mitchell (3rd season) got competitive last year,” said Mitchell. “We were able to win PLAYERS TO WATCH some games and found ourGabe Myles, Sr., QB selves in the state championship Dual-threat senior passed for 1,837 game. So it didn’t take long for yards and 19 touchdowns and those expectations to come back rushed for 849 more and seven and we know what is expected scores in 2011. here in Starkville.”

Stanley Higgins, Sr., TE/DE 6-3 and 235-pound two-way player OFFENSE drawing SEC recruiting interest.

Mitchell and company return six Juwan Johnson, Sr., OL/DL starts on offense, including senior quarThe 6-foot-2, 295-pound Johnson al- terback and 2013 MSU commitment ready owns a college offer from Gabe Myles. Other top offensive returnIndiana. ers include senior tailback Preston Baker, senior tight end Stanley Higgins

STARKVILLE

YELLOW JACKETS

and Juwan Johnson.

DEFENSE

On the other side of the ball the Jackets also return several familiar faces. Senior David Fair Jr., is coming off an injury-riddled junior season (torn ACL) but is back in the linebacker mix along with junior Taylor Johnston.

On the defensive line, juniors Kyle Jones and Justin Ware should lead the way. The secondary may feature the most experience with senior cornerback Jacoby Smith, senior free safety Johnny Smith and junior strong safety Devante Davis – all returning starters.

CHARLES A. SMITH | DAILY JOURNAL FILE “No question our strong suit will be MSU commitment Gabe Myles up front with all three interior guys accounted for more than 2,600 back,” said Mitchell. “And those guys yards of total offense last season. are very physical. Then if Fair gets back to being 100 percent healthy again we and junior receivers Princeton Jones. will be really good at linebacker.”

“Offensively we just got to be more consistent moving the chains,” said SPECIAL TEAMS Mitchell. “Big plays do keep fans in the Senior Charlie Henderson will handle stands but as coaches, we need to see placekicking duties as well as kickoff more consistency and longer drives. We duties. Senior Taylor Wise returns as the want to be able to depend on the punter and Baker will handle duties on ground game and control the clock.” kickoff returns and punt returns.

On the offensive line, experience is Johnny Smith will join Baker on kickoff also evident with seniors Kirk Kinard returns.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

Noxubee County 7:30 at Madison Central 7:30 at Tupelo 7:30 West Point 7:30 Open 7:30 at Lanier* at Provine* 7:30 Ridgeland* 7:00 at Canton* 7:00 Yazoo City* 7:00 at Callaway* 7:00 Neshoba Central 7:00 *–Division 2-5A

SCOUTING REPORT

QB Gabe Myles is the son of former MSU defensive back Eddie Myles ...The Jackets will play with heavy hearts this fall after TB Devin Mitchell was tragically killed on New Year’s Eve ...The Jackets hope for senior receiver Jimmy Saulsberry to return late in the season after suffering a torn ACL in the spring ...Starkville High School’s last state title was in 2001, when the Jackets defeated Moss Point in the Class 5A title game.

Volunteers build on championship-game run

BY PAUL JONES

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Terrrill

STARKVILLE ACA.

VOLUNTEERS FAST FACTS

Division: MAIS AAA, Division 2, District 2 2011 record: 10-3, 3-1 division (Lost in Academy AAA, Division 2 championship game) Coach: Jeff Terrill (3rd season)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Drew Pellum, Sr., K/P Was an honorable-mention allconference pick in 2011.

Colby Reynolds, Sr., RB/LB Senior performer who also returns kickoffs and punts..

Bailey Newell, Jr., DE Junior who progressed well in 2011, which was his first year at Starkville Academy.

quarterback back,” said Terrill. “And we have that and he is a good one. We should also be decent on the offensive line so that gives us a good nucleus to build on.”

SCHEDULE

Aug. 17 at St. Andrews 7:30 The Volunteers of Starkville Aug. 24 Heritage Aca. 7:30 Academy produced one of the Aug. 31 at Magnolia Hghts. 7:30 Sept. 7 Leake Aca. 7:30 state’s biggest improvements in Sept. 14 Hillcrest Christian* 7:30 2011 regardless of classification DEFENSE or affiliation.

Terrill points towards an experienced Sept. 21 Jackson Prep Sept. 28 at Copiah Aca.* 7:30 After winning just three games defensive line when discussing the Oct. 5 at Parklane 7:00 in 2010, head coach Jeff Terrill strong suit of that side of the ball.

Oct. 12 Winston Aca. 7:00 and his squad finished 10-2 and Leading that charge of up front is exOct. 19 at East Rankin Aca.* 7:00 reached the Academy AAA Divipect to be senior defensive tackle Trip 7:00 sion 2 championship game last Janison and junior defensive end Bailey Oct. 26 Presbyterian *–MAIS AAA II, District 2 season.

Newell.

“It really gave our kids a lot of “Our defense should still be pretty SCOUTING REPORT confidence,” said third-year good up front,” Terrill said. “We had one Jeff Terrill is a former AP | FILE of the better defensive linemen in the head coach Jeff Terrill. “And it Starkville Academy running back Academy ranks last year and now Trip Itawamba Community Colmade things exciting around Colby Reynolds is back for his fills into that role well. It all goes back to lege head coach ...The Volunhere again with the game of senior season. football. It was awfully special our front seven and Bailey Newell really teers were winless in the season before Terrill took over cause nobody expected us to do came on strong last year.” ...Pellum was injured late in it and that made it real unique. It of its four leading rushers from last To aid the efforts in the secondary, has been a great thing around year. But one of those guys back is do- Reynolds or Pellum may see time back the postseason last year but had a healthy spring showing here and will help us to build for every quarterback Drew Pellum, who is there. ...Junior Bailey Newell took the coming years.” a master at running the Vols’ option atover the starting spot mid-way This fall the Vols are poised to tack.

SPECIAL TEAMS make another title run with 13 Another solid running option is senior Junior Jonthan Burton will handle the through the 2011 season and is one of the defensive leaders. starters back and plenty of expe- tailback Colby Reynolds while senior kickoff and placekicking duties while rience at crucial positions.

Cole Phelps paces the offensive line. junior Michael Miller will be the Volun“In over 30 years of coaching, any teers’ punter. Reynolds will return kickOFFENSE time you are putting the pieces together offs and punts and will be aided on Starkville Academy must replace two the most important part is having your kickoff returns by junior Kirby Cox.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Rebels play numbers game after winning season

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Harvey

THRASHER

REBELS

FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 6-4, 5-4 (no playoffs) Coach: Lamart Harvey (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Logan Dodds, Sr., FB/MLB Could also split out and play wide receiver.

J. T. Huddleston, Jr., QB/FS Key player on defense and offense for Rebels.

Blake Weatherbee, Jr., K/P Weapon in helping Thrasher control field position.

Class 1A football teams can have a pretty thin sideline some seasons.

That might be one of the biggest challenges for first-year Thrasher Rebels head coach Lamart Harvey in 2012.

“The guys I’ve had out so far have worked hard and dedicated themselves to this team,” said Harvey, whose squad could easily number under 20 players to begin the season. “We’ll have to be in great shape to go four quarters.

“We had some guys come out even after our first game last season, but that’s not what most programs do.”

OFFENSE

With few returning players on the field for early practices, Harvey is still in the process of evaluating his squad.

The Thrasher alumni, who was an assistant with the Rebels last season, will be counting on J. T. Huddleston at quarterback, Logan Dodds at fullback, |

REGION 1-6A Olive Branch South Panola Southaven Tupelo Columbus Horn Lake Grenada DeSoto Central

Overall 15 0 9 4 8 4 6 6 7 4 6 5 4 7 4 7

Region 7 0 6 1 4 3 4 3 4 3 2 5 1 6 0 7

REGION 1-5A Center Hill West Point Clarksdale Hernando Oxford Lake Cormorant New Hope Saltillo

Overall 8 5 8 5 7 5 5 7 5 6 4 7 4 7 2 9

Region 6 1 6 1 5 2 4 3 3 4 2 5 2 5 0 7

REGION 2-5A Starkville Ridgeland Neshoba Central Provine Canton Callaway Yazoo City Lanier

Overall 12 3 10 4 7 5 6 6 5 6 4 7 6 5 0 11

Region 7 0 6 1 5 2 4 3 2 5 2 5 2 5 0 7

REGION 1-4A

Overall Amory 11 4 Corinth 6 6 Shannon 5 6 Itawamba 7 4 Pontotoc 6 5 Tishomingo County 2 9

Region 4 1 3 2 3 2 3 2 2 3 0 5

REGION 2-4A Lafayette New Albany

Overall 16 0 9 4

Region 5 0 4 1

PF 602 360 453 274 283 241 255 245

PA 284 178 234 309 233 306 331 359

PF 295 426 308 327 306 205 229 280

PA 265 273 312 323 303 293 290 400

PF 437 403 342 281 199 257 282 133

PA 260 259 305 253 221 281 233 393

PF 500 263 272 326 226 168

PA 307 239 231 254 267 348

PF 694 257

PA 169 220

North Pontotoc Senatobia Lewisburg Rosa Fort

9 5 6 3

and Kelvin Lowery on the offensive line.

“We will need to get the ball in the hands of Dodds on offense,” Harvey said. “We might even put him at wide receiver some during the game to get him the ball in space.

“Our offense will be capable, but will need to confuse defenses.”

DEFENSE

Huddleston will line up at free safety, and Dodds at middle linebacker as part of the ironman football lineup for the Rebels.

Harvey also likes Henry Roberson at corner back or outside linebacker; and Landon Weatherbee at outside linebacker as well.

“I think we’ll be pretty good on defense,” Harvey said. “The only thing will be the wear and tear of playing both ways.

“But they have a chance to be pretty good.”

3 3 2 0

2 2 3 5

Overall 12 2 10 3 6 6 4 8 4 7 0 11

Region 5 0 4 1 3 2 2 3 1 4 0 5

REGION 1-3A Kossuth Booneville Ripley Belmont Holly Springs Alcorn Central

Overall 12 1 8 4 4 7 5 6 4 7 1 10

Region 5 0 4 1 2 3 2 3 2 3 0 5

REGION 2-3A Water Valley Aberdeen Mooreville Nettleton South Pontotoc Mantachie

Overall 11 3 7 6 8 5 3 9 3 8 3 8

Region 5 0 4 1 3 2 2 3 1 4 0 5

REGION 1-2A Calhoun City Bruce Baldwyn Okolona Walnut Hatley

SCOUTING REPORT

Overall 13 2 10 3 5 7 5 8 4 7 4 7

Region 5 0 4 1 3 2 2 3 1 4 0 5

410 410 307 240

250 250 231 219

PF 402 394 320 166 178 121

PA 197 176 189 362 272 383

PF 355 274 323 238 171 88

PA 207 183 261 252 221 491

PF 459 315 407 273 178 220

PA 186 186 273 414 465 339

PF 457 467 272 272 220 245

PA 217 182 317 317 288 378

BRANDON SPECK | DAILY JOURNAL

Tyree Fryar runs a sprint in practice for coach Lamart Harvey.

2011 REGION STANDINGS

3 6 5 7

SCHEDULE

open at New Site 7:30 open Benton County 7:30 at Coldwater* 7:30 Biggersville* 7:30 at Houlka* 7:30 TCPS* 7:00 at Byers* 7:00 at Falkner* 7:00 Smithville* 7:00 at Vardaman* 7:00 *–Division 1-1A

Head coach Lamart Harvey was also co-head coach of the Thrasher Rebels in 2005 and played for legendary Thrasher coach Willie T. Jackson... Harvey was the starting quarterback for the Rebels when they made the playoffs in 1986...

The 2011 football season was the Rebels’ first winning season in 18 years.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Harvey is counting on kicker/punter Blake Weatherbee to help the Rebels with field position throughout the 32 minutes of each contest.

REGION 4-4A Louisville Noxubee County Houston Leake Central Caledonia Kosciusko

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 27 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 18 Oct. 26 Nov. 1

|

THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL

Amory’s Forest Williams, the Daily Journal offensive player of the year, set a state record with 5,100 yards passing and 55 TDs as well as a single-game record for passing yards.

REGION 2-2A Ackerman Hamilton Eupora East Webster George Williams-Sullivan

Overall 10 4 9 3 6 5 5 7 1 10 0 11

Region 5 0 4 1 3 2 2 3 1 4 0 5

PF 385 418 308 153 88 90

PA 248 173 185 276 406 549

REGION 1-1A Vardaman Falkner Smithville Byers Thrasher Coldwater TCPS Biggersville Houlka

Overall 9 4 8 3 6 5 6 6 5 4 5 6 4 6 2 8 0 10

Region 7 1 7 1 6 2 5 3 4 4 3 5 3 5 1 7 0 8

PF 371 257 194 339 286 333 149 148 71

PA 196 167 257 292 212 268 234 388 304

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

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Braves hearing good things in community begins his second year in charge of Tishomingo County’s offense.

“His maturity level has really grown and he’s learned the game,” Jones said. “He’s going to pound the ball and he’s going to be able throw the ball and make the right reads.”

Channing Holland will anchor a senior-laden offensive line at guard.

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Part of Lanny Jones’s job when taking over the Tishomingo County football program was to change the mindset of not only his players but of the surroundJones ing communities as well.

With one season in the books, Jones feels a significant dent has been made.

“We’re to the point now where we feel like when things are FAST FACTS being talked about TC when you Division: 1-4A go out in the community, it’s not 2011 record: 2-9, 0-5 division (no negative anymore,” he said. “It’s playoffs) not about how bad we were and Coach: Lanny Jones (2nd year) how bad the season’s going to be, it’s kinda reversed.”

PLAYERS TO WATCH That reversal of attitude transChanning Holland, Sr., OG/DL lates to higher expectations for Leader on both sides of the line, has the Braves with a majority of 73 tackles over the past 2 seasons. starters returning from last Kyle Wood, Sr., WR/CB year’s two-win season.

Multi-threat player who will also serve as the kick-return specialist.

OFFENSE Chandler Dexter, Sr., TE/DE For the second year in a row, Jones Caught 16 passes for 333 yards as a will rely heavily on the skill positions to junior, the most of any returning make big plays.

Braves player.

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Depth will not be an issue for Tishomingo County on the defensive side. Holland at tackle and Wood at cornerback are the only starters playing on both sides of the ball.

The linebackers will be one of the quicker positions on the field for the LAURA ORR | SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL Braves. Jones is confident Austin MarBlake Hawkins will be back at lin, Joseph Flanagan, Trevor Hawkins quarterback after taking over and Jackson Haines can handle both midway through last season. spread and running oriented offenses.

Butler and Chandler Dexter give Tishomingo County four separate threats at receiver. Dexter will line up as the tight end.

Blake Hawkins took over as starting quarterback halfway through his freshman season. Jones feels that experience can only help Hawkins as he

SPECIAL TEAMS

Wood will take over punting duties from Butler, who will maintain his role as placekicker. Jones said he would trust Butler’s leg from a range of 40 yards on a field goal attempt.

Butler, Gamble, and Wood will rotate out as kick returners.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

Byhalia at Alcorn Central Belmont at Kossuth Booneville

7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 7:30 at Choctawhatchee (Fla.) 7:30 Amory* 7:30 at Pontotoc* 7:00 at Corinth* 7:00 Shannon* 7:00 at Itawamba AHS* 7:00 *–Division 1-4A

SCOUTING REPORT

Tishomingo County will begin its season against a Dandy Dozen (Byhalia OL Davion Johnson) and end versus another Dandy Dozen (Itawamba AHS ATH Ashton Shumpert) . … Also on the schedule is a Week 6 visit to Choctawhatchee High in Fort Walton Beach, Fla. “I want to create that experience for some kids that you’ll never get again,” said Braves coach Lanny Jones . … The Braves are looking to end a 17-game division losing streak.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Tupelo coach focusing on the positives Otis Wilson, Quin Tiggs and Rodney McIntosh will be the Wave’s running back by committee. The team entered fall practice looking for a combination that worked.

The wide receivers are Zach Johnson, Jarvis Wilson and Darrell Hadley.

Up front, two starters return in guard Chance McCarty and tackle Kasey Grice.

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Nobody could blame David Bradberry if he was down in the dumps about the start of the 2012 season.

Tupelo lost Ashton Shumpert, Bradberry its star running back/quarterback, who transferred to Itawamba AHS in the spring.

The Golden Wave has a killer schedule that features games against two-time 4A state chamFAST FACTS pion Lafayette, 5A power and Division: 1-6A state finalist Starkville, not to 2011 record: 6-6, 4-3 division (lost mention Division 1-6A games 1st round playoffs) against state champ Olive Coach: David Bradberry (3rd year) Branch and needs-no-introduction enforcer South Panola.

PLAYERS TO WATCH Instead, Bradberry enters his Quin Tiggs, Jr., RB/DB third season in charge of the Versatile player gives Golden Wave Golden Wave with an optimistic threat on both sides. attitude.

Drew White, Sr., K/P “We have a chance to be a White’s strong leg provides points good football team by the end of and field position. the year,” he said. “I’m excited Thomas Harris, Sr., QB about the good offseason and Backup forced into action last season summer work we’ve had. after injury to starter.

“I’m looking forward to the season.”

TUPELO

GOLDEN WAVE

DEFENSE

Tiggs and Marquis Allen return to play in the secondary while Jeremiah Dent is back at one of the end spots.

Ashton Wedel and James Gilleylen DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL are the leading linebacker candidates.

Tupelo’s Zach Johnson will see Gilleylen played end last season. plenty of time at wide receiver.

“We’re going to be juggling players on defense to see where we’ll play OFFENSE who,” Bradberry said.

Senior Thomas Harris enters the fall as the No. 1 quarterback. Alex NorSPECIAL TEAMS wood, a sophomore, made progress in The Wave looks solid with the spring and it a solid No. 2. kicker/punter Drew White returning.

Harris completed 20 of 42 passes for He’ll be joined by Reed Bigham at the 458 yards and three touchdowns last kicker position. White was 30 for 30 on season, subbing for injured starter Luke extra points, 10 for 14 on field goal with Hobson. a long of 48 yards. He averaged 45.6 “Hopefully, that experience will be a yards per punt. Joel Baldwin returns as plus for him,” Bradberry said. the deep snapper.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

at Lafayette 7:30 Center Hill 7:30 Starkville 7:30 Shannon 7:30 open Columbus* 7:30 at Grenada* 7:30 at Southaven* 7:00 South Panola* 7:00 at DeSoto Central * 7:00 Horn Lake* 7:00 at Olive Branch* 7:00 *–Division 1-6A

SCOUTING REPORT

Two state champions – Lafayette (4A) and Olive Branch (6A) – open and close the regular season schedule. ...

Former THS defensive coordinator Jeff Carter has returned to coach defensive backs. ...

Golden Wave kicker Drew White has his own website: drewwhitekicks.com. ... QB Thomas Harris suffered a hand injury in spring scrimmage, but didn’t need surgery.

Senior kicker White ready to put boot to Wave’s foes

BY BLAKE LONG

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Complacency has not been an issue for Tupelo Golden Wave kicker Drew White, who’s coming off a solid junior campaign.

White averaged 46 yards per punt while forcing touchbacks 26 times out off 44 kickoffs last year, helping the Golden Wave defense combat opposing offenses in good field position.

Extra points and field goals are no problem for White, either. He did not miss an extra point in 30 attempts in 2011 and hit 10 out of 14 field goals with each misfire coming from a distance beyond 48 yards.

But even with those numbers, White said he isn’t satisfied yet, and his offseason work attests to that.

White attended seven summer kicking camps, where he continued to impress.

He won individual awards at Middle Tennessee State and North Alabama.

“The camps are great because it gives you a real competition and a real good thought of where you are amongst other kickers,” said White. “If I’m just going out and kicking by myself that helps, but it doesn’t quite do as much as a camp does.”

Incoming junior Reed Bigham has also helped keepWhite sharp with good competition in practice.

‘If you think you’ve got a guy who can kick a 43-yarder (field goal) every time, that’s a big deal.’

David Bradberry Tupelo coach

“Having Bigham at practice, I can’t tell you how much that helps me out,” White said. “As good as he is, he’d be starting anywhere else in the state really. He’s always out here competing and pushing me to get better.”

Tupelo coach David Bradberry also pointed to the productivity of junior long snapper Joel Baldwin as a key to White’s success.

“He is an extremely good snapper,” Bradberry said. “He’s got a good spiral on it so it’s one of those deals where it’s easy to handle on field goals and extra points.”

So as Tupelo approaches the start of their season Friday at Lafayette County, Bradberry is confident inWhite’s abilities.

DESTE LEE | DAILY JOURNAL “If you think you’ve got a guy who can kick a 43-yarder (field goal) every time, Tupelo kicker Drew White was 30 of 30 in extra-point attempts last season and 10 of 14 on field-goal attempts and he averaged 46 yards a punt. that’s a big deal,” he said.

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

|

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

Eagles will depend on experienced line play Holiday said. “We just want him to operate within the system.”

Zach Tybor returns in the backfield at tailback. The receivers are Charlie Forrest and Kyle Gray.

The strength on offense will be the line where center Dason Maloney, guards Matt Gates and Russell Hanby, and tackles Luke Hudson and Richard Gunnells are expected to lineup.

TCPS will continue to operate from the spread, but will also depend on a power running game behind its solid offensive line.

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Holiday

TCPS

EAGLES FAST FACTS

Division: 1-1A 2011 record: 4-6, 3-5 division (no playoffs) Coach: Shaune Holiday (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Lee McBunch, Sr., QB Played WR last season, but moves to QB after departure by transfer of 2011 starter Andrew Soper.

Conner Christman, Sr., K/LB Gives Eagles an advantage in the always crucial kicking game.

Charlie Forrest, Sr., WR Good hands and good speed make him a deep threat.

Shaune Holiday was going to be Tupelo Christian Prep’s strength and conditioning coach this season.

That all changed earlier this summer when head coach Aubrey Boren hung up his coaching whistle to focus on administrative duties at the Class 1A school.

Holiday, an assistant football and baseball coach last year, was tabbed to replace Boren.

“God opened this door for me,” said the Iuka native. “This is a great school with a great athletics program. Coach Boren left a great foundation. It’s an honor for me to get the opportunity to build on that foundation.”

Holiday has brought in former Ole Miss All-American tight end Rufus French and former South Carolina defensive back Deandre Eiland to assist him. Grant Smallwood will continue as the offensive coordinator.

“We’re the smallest program

DEFENSE

The Eagles will have a lot of two-way Zach Tybor returns in the back- players, starting with McBunch, who field for the Eagles. will play safety. He’ll be joined in the secondary by Tybor, Forrest and Gray. in the state, but these kids have Gates, Hanby, Hudson and Gunnells big hearts,” Holiday said. will play up front while Maloney and Conner Christman will be the linebackOFFENSE ers.

Lee McBunch, a wide receiver last season, has moved into the QB role. He SPECIAL TEAMS replaces starter Andrew Soper, who Christian returns to handle the kicktransferred to Saltillo during the suming chores while McBunch continues as mer. the punter.

“Lee has a good arm and an awareForrest and Tybor will handle the reness of what’s going on on the field,” turn chores.

GENE PHELPS | DAILY JOURNAL

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 O. 5 O. 12 O. 19 O. 26 N. 2

SCHEDULE

at Strayhorn 7:30 at Middleton (Tenn.) 7:30 Open Coldwater* 7:30 at Biggersville* 7:30 Houlka* 7:30 at Byers* 7:30 at Thrasher* 7:00 Falkner* 7:00 at Smithville* 7:00 Vardaman* 7:00 Open *–Division 1-1A

SCOUTING REPORT

The Eagles will miss Soper’s skills on offense, but Holiday believes McBunch can shoulder the load. “We know it takes 11 to win and 11 to lose,” the coach said. ... TCPS has compiled a 16-15 overall record in three seasons since joining the MHSAA. ... Holiday’s goal this season is to get more kids involved in the football program. “I know the kids we have are going to work hard. That’s exciting,” he said.

Motivated Rams set sights on Jackson

BY DAVID WHEELER SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

“We were 18 yards away from Jackson last year.”

Obviously, Vardaman Rams head coach Justin Hollis still Hollis vividly remembers his team’s painful loss to Shaw in the Class 1A North Half championship game a year ago.

But that memory could motivate the Rams that one more FAST FACTS step in 2012.

Division: 1-1A “That was as gut-wrenching a 2011 record: 10-4, 7-1 division (lost defeat as you could have,” Hollis in North finals) said. “And the players saw how Coach: Justin Hollis (5th year) close we were.

“Now, they’re not just satisfied PLAYERS TO WATCH with making the North Half fiCody Jenkins, Sr., QB nals anymore. They’re ready to A 4-year starter, he passed for more punch the ticket, ready to get than 1,500 yards and rushed for there” another 700-plus in 12 games last But first, the Rams must qualseason. ify for the playoffs out of the noDonta Walker, Sr., RB/SS toriously tough Region 1-1A. Played receiver last three years; dan“The division is greatly imgerous speed back for Rams. proved, teams like Falkner and Dillon Landrith, Sr., OG Smithville,” Hollis said. “And our A 3-year starter and an anchor of the non-division schedule is a killer, offensive line. too.

“We have a lot of great chal-

VARDAMAN

RAMS

lenges ahead of us.”

OFFENSE

The Rams mixture of experience and youth on offense is heavy on the experience with quarterback Cody Jenkins.

The senior signal caller posted more than 2,200 yards of offense rushing and passing in just 12 games a season ago.

A three-year starter at receiver, Donta Walker moves to running back, giving the Rams nice burst of speed.

Guards Dillon Landreth and Cody Smith, and tackle Adam Wright, provide a core of experience on the line.

DEFENSE

Playing both offense and defense is often a must in 1A football, and that is no different for Vardaman.

Jenkins and Smith are part of the linebacking corps.

Walker is at strong safety, and will be joined in the backfield by Ta West.

“We have a lot of expectations with this program,” Hollis said. “We want to get better every day.”

SPECIAL TEAMS

Landreth moves out of the line to

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 6 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 1

SCHEDULE

East Webster 7:30 at Bruce 7:30 Open at Falkner* 7:30 Smithville* 7:30 Byers* 7:30 at Coffeeville 7:30 Coldwater* 7:00 at Biggersville* 7:00 Houlka* 7:00 at Tupelo Christian* 7:00 Thrasher* 7:00 *–Division 1-1A

SCOUTING REPORT

The Rams have eight seniors on the 2012 team, and all eight are at least three-year starters; also, these seniors played in the 1A semifinals as DAILY JOURNAL FILE freshmen ... Vardaman lost to Vardaman’s Cody Jenkins is a Shaw 12-6 in the Class 1A four-year starter who passed for semifinals last season ... Var1,500 yards last year and ran for daman had never defeated the another 700 yards.

Durant Tigers, until an overtime 31-28 victory in the 1A quarterfinals last season. handle all the kicking for the Rams, with Mac Armstrong as the snapper.

Walker and James Avant will handle the return duties for Vardaman.

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Wildcats ready for rugged 1-2A schedule

BY GENE PHELPS DAILY JOURNAL

Meeks

WALNUT

WILDCATS FAST FACTS

Division: 1-2A 2011 record: 4-7, 1-4 division (no playoffs) Coach: John Meeks (1st year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Dillon Barnes, Sr., K/P/QB The talented signal-caller returns for his senior year.

Eric Reason, Sr., OL Started at right tackle last season.

Devonte Bell, Sr., RB Heads to tailback after playing tight end in 2011.

First-year Walnut coach John Meeks knows how tough it’s going to be to make a living in Division 1-2A football, but he’s prepared for the challenge.

“It’s going to be a battle looking at the other teams,” said Meeks, an assistant the last 10 seasons with the Wildcats under former head coach Timmy Moore. “It’s going to be a fight for everything we get.”

SOUTHERN SENTINAL Walnut’s neighbors in the diviDillon Barnes threw for 619 yards sion are Baldwyn, Bruce, Caland seven TDs last season. houn City, Hatley and Okolona.

The Wildcats were 4-7 last season and won only one division Moore on the sidelines.” game.

Prior to last season, Walnut OFFENSE reached the playoffs four conDillon Barnes returns to lead at quarsecutive years. terback after completing 48 of 97 for “This program has had suc619 yards and 7 TDs last season. cess,” Meeks said. “I’m excited “He has a tremendous amount of about the opportunity to conability and we trust him,” Meeks said. tinue the success we’ve had The Wildcats have to replaced sophhere. omore star Monty Linton, who trans“It’s going to be different, an ferred to Baton Rogue this summer. adjustment, not having Coach Devonte Bell, a tight end last year, will

fill the role. Kylan Crum will be the fullback.

Ty Huffman, Chandler Hopper and Jovan Norton are the wide receivers while Shawn Thornton is the new tight end.

Eric Reason, a tackle, and Cross Caldwell, a guard, are the lone blockers back. Dillon Theil, Lee Bryant, Tanner Brooks and Mikey Hulbert will all bid for playing time.

DEFENSE

Jack Bennett and Reason are the ends while freshman Nick Duncan, Bell, Crum and Thornton will be the linebackers. Bell recorded 65 tackles last season. One ley loss will be middle linebacker Colton Shea, who has been sidelined with a torn ACL. Huffman, Norton and Harper, along with Will Quin and Jordan Gray will play in the secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Thornton will handle the kickoff and punting duties while Crum is expected to become the placekicker.

Bell and Huffman will handle the return chores while Brooks will be the deep snapper.

Aug. 17 Aug. 23 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26

SCHEDULE

at Booneville 7:30 Falkner 7:30 Alcorn Central 7:30 at Middleton (Tenn.) 7:30 at East Webster 7:30 Hamilton 7:30 at Bruce* 7:30 Calhoun City* 7:30 Hatley* 7:30 at Baldwyn* 7:30 at Okolona* 7:30 *–Division 1-2A

SCOUTING REPORT

QB Dillon Barnes missed one game last season with a concussion suffered against Bruce. ... MLB Colton Shea had surgery in spring for a torn ACL, but has returned to running. Coaches believe he might be in the lineup before season ends. ... Fullback Kylan Crum is expected to get more carries this season in Wildcats’ balanced attack.

Wave charting return to championship form

BY PAUL JONES

SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Chambless

WEST POINT

GREEN WAVE FAST FACTS

Division: 1-5A 2011 record: 8-5, 6-1 division (Lost in second round of playoffs) Coach: Chris Chambless (7th year)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Tez Lane, Sr., RB Rushed for more than 1,000 yards in 2011.

Aeris Williams, Jr., RB Had more than 1,300 yards of total offense a year ago.

Freddie Reed, Sr., DE/LB Earned all-conference honors and had 74 tackles in 2011.

Finishing runner-up in the division and advancing to the second round of the playoffs is a successful season for some high school programs. But not at West Point High School.

After winning back-to-back Class 5A state titles, the Green Wave failed to win their division for the first time in five years and finished 8-5 last season.

But head coach Chris Chambless said his squad is turning that negative season into a positive heading into the 2012 campaign.

“You don’t ever like losing that last game,” said Chambless.

“When it happens, it leaves a bad taste in your mouth. But it also pushes the guys harder in the offseason and motivates you more.

“So we just have to get better and that is why we like playing tough teams in the spring, which we did this year against Meridian. I want us to face hardnosed teams cause it makes us better in the long run.”

senior offensive guard Riley Morton.

DEFENSE

The Green Wave will also look to rely on their stingy defense in 2012.

Senior linebacker/defensive end Freddie Reed leads the charge along with senior defensive lineman Ed Brown, who posted a team-high seven sacks a year ago.

Defensively, the Green Wave will be paced by a pair of seniors within the front seven. Senior LB/DE Freddie Reed THOMAS WELLS | DAILY JOURNAL posted 74 tackles and six sacks last West Point’s Tez Lane rushed for year while senior lineman Ed Brown more than 1,000 yards last year. had 62 tackles and a team-best seven sacks in 2011.

OFFENSE Senior Trey Bennett and junior EdWest Point will again look to pound dious Webb also return at linebacker the football and use that familiar recipe while senior CBs R.J. Talley and on offense. The Green Wave have plenty Jonathan Patterson along with junior of candidates to do just that with senior safety Rashad Jones lead an experirunning backs Tez Lane and Mario enced secondary.

Virges along with junior standout Aeris Williams.

SPECIAL TEAMS West Point will have to replace last Senior veteran Eric Lemus will hanyear’s starter at quarterback in Dequin- dle all of the kicking duties for the ten Spraggins and a host of candidates Green Wave. In the return game, are vying for that role.

Williams and Lane will be on kickoff reOther returning starters of note inturns while Lane doubles up with his clude senior tight end T.J. Minor and punt return duties.

Aug. 17 Aug. 24 Aug. 31 Sept. 7 Sept. 14 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 5 Oct. 12 Oct. 19 Oct. 26 Nov. 2

SCHEDULE

at South Panola 7:30 Open at Columbus 7:30 at Starkville 7:30 Noxubee County 7:30 Lake Cormorant* 7:30 at Hernando* 7:30 Clarksdale* 7:00 at Saltillo* 7:00 Center Hill* 7:00 Oxford* 7:00 at New Hope* 7:00 *–Division 1-5A

SCOUTING REPORT

Senior Mario Virges broke a foot in the spring but is now recovered and may also see time at linebacker this year...Aeris Williams is considered one of the state’s top 2014 prospects and already drawing SEC attention...Last year the Green Wave suffered their first district loss since re-joining the Class 5A ranks over five years ago...Senior Eric Lemus has handled the Green Wave kicking duties the past three seasons

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FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

DAILY JOURNAL

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SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2012

FOOTBALL JOURNAL 2012

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