Football JournalDaily Journal’s Football Magazine 2008 Sunday,August 24, 2008

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY THOMAS WELLS; GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS COVER ON PAGE 2 High schools Mississippi State Ole Miss SEC Junior colleges Southern Miss Smaller colleges I Scouting reports I What will the Bulldogs I The Era I After back-to-back I There are new head I New head coach I Jackson State and IT’S ALL on 45 NeMiss teams do for an encore after begins in Oxford, and national championships, coaches at Northeast Larry Fedora may already Delta State will target and a look at some going 8-5? How about Rebels fans will finally what’s next for the top and Northwest and the have his biggest victory defending their league INSIDE: varsity programs just contending for an SEC get to see QB Jevan league? And are those same high expectations after winning over some titles while hopes are getting started. Western Division title? Snead take the field. coaches really worth it? for Itawamba CC. skeptical players. high on every campus. PAGE 2H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL THE FIRST WORD: Welcome to the Football Journal! Time again for Friday (Thursday, Saturday, etc.) night lights “Football is a rough game ... and often It’s time to visit the Friday It’s time to visit the Thurs- the horrific Coach “O” regime go “poof.” cruel one. Pain is inevitable.” night lights and see if: day night Juco lights and see if: All it would take would be ... six wins. – John Facenda, NFL Films I Tupelo QB Chris Garrett I First-year Northeast I Sylvester Croom’s fifth season at will leave for Baton Rouge at coach Rick Smither, the son of MSU produces a second straight winner he usual blood, sweat and tears Christmas with a 5A state a shipyards worker, can instill and postseason visitor. Anything less that accompany preseason championship on his already enough of that south than seven wins would be a disappoint- football have fallen onto the impressive passing resume ... Louisiana toughness in his ment. Tsun-parched practice fields of one that should include team to help them survive and Northeast Mississippi. school records in yardage, possibly thrive in the MACJC’s It’s time to visit Sundays in the NFL to Now, it’s time now to buckle those completions and TDs. tough North Division. see if: chinstraps for real. I Tupelo’s do-it-all player, I ICC can replace record- I Broadway Brett can make the Jets a It’s time to hit somebody else. Chad Bumphis, will help the Gene setting Tyson Lee playoff contender. It’s time to stay injury free. Golden Wave achieve its lofty and continue its recent tradi- I Aaron Rodgers can make the Lam- It’s time to break down tape. goal of beating South Panola PHELPS tion of being a playoff con- beau faithful forget Brett the Jet. It’s time to improve each week. and winning state with his tender every season. I Drew, Deuce and Reggie can take It’s time to remain focused on your trips to the end zone by air the Saints to the Super Bowl just once in goals. and ground. It’s time to visit Saturdays in Missis- my lifetime. It’s time to remember why you ran all I South Panola’s amazing win streak sippi to see if: those wind sprints, lifted that iron, could end Oct. 17 in Batesville when the I Houston Nutt will work enough Gene Phelps ([email protected]) is senior drank all the Gatorade. Golden Wave comes calling. magic at Ole Miss to make memories of sports writer for the Daily Journal

WHERE TO FIND IT High school coverage Aberdeen ...... 23H Mississippi College ...... 15H starts on Page 19H Academy roundup ...... 51H Mississippi State ...... 4H I The Football Journal has pre- Alcorn Central ...... 32H Mississippi Valley ...... 12H views on all 45 area teams; Large Alcorn State ...... 13H Mooreville ...... 34H School and Small School presea- Amory ...... 37H Nettleton ...... 38H son rankings; a list of the area’s Baldwyn ...... 40H New Albany ...... 29H top returning players; plus, a look Belhaven ...... 15H New programs (high school) ...... 49H at some new football programs Belmont ...... 41H North Pontotoc ...... 36H that are sprouting in the middle of Biggersville ...... 44H Northeast CC ...... 17H country. Booneville ...... 33H Northwest CC ...... 18H Bruce ...... 25H Okolona ...... 46H Calhoun City ...... 45H Ole Miss ...... 5H Editor’s note Champs, recent high school ...... 28H Oxford ...... 31H I Having become a grandpa for Community Colleges ...... 16-18H Pontotoc ...... 29H the first time in March, I now have Conference USA ...... 11H Position-by-position (MSU) ...... 4H an even keener appreciation for Corinth ...... 24H Position-by-position (Ole Miss) ...... 5H the process of Delta State ...... 15H Ripley ...... 24H creation. Division standings, 2007 ...... 53H Salaries, SEC coaches ...... 9H Once again, Dixon,Anthony ...... 7H Saltillo ...... 30H we have given East Webster ...... 25H SEC East ...... 8H birth – so to Falkner ...... 45H SEC schedules ...... 10H speak – to the “Fearsome threesome” (Tupelo) . . . .20H SEC standings, 2007 ...... 44H Football Jour- Games to watch (prep) ...... 52H SEC West ...... 8H PHOTOS BY BRUCE NEWMAN/OXFORD EAGLE, SEC, DESTE LEE AND C. TODD SHERMAN nal. Isn’t it just Hamilton ...... 41H Shannon ...... 22H This year’s cover brings together five key figures in the 2008 football season the cutest thing Hatley ...... 42H Smither, Ricky (Northeast) ...... 17H in Northeast Mississippi – from left, Ole Miss quarterback , Mis- you ever saw? High school rankings ...... 19H Smithville ...... 46H sissippi State running back , Itawamba CC defender Pernell For a little Hinton, Marcus (Aberdeen) ...... 23H Snead, Jevan ...... 7H McPhee, Tupelo High School quarterback Chris Garrett and Aberdeen High while this has been our baby, but Holly Springs ...... 40H Southern Miss ...... 11H School head coach Chris Duncan. The image was produced by Thomas Wells. now it’s time for it to go out into Houston ...... 37H South Pontotoc ...... 40H the wide world just as football sea- Hutchins, Heath (ICC) ...... 16H Starkville ...... 28H son gets started. Be nice to it. Itawamba AHS ...... 21H SWAC overview ...... 12H The information that’s gathered Itawamba CC ...... 16H Tebow,Tim (Florida) ...... 9H Football Journal 2008 here is so valuable to us during the Jackson State ...... 13H Thrasher ...... 47H I Cover design: Thomas Wells. season – on high school football Juniors, top 12 (high school) ...... 27H Tishomingo County ...... 31H I Cover illustration: Thomas Wells. Friday nights, especially – that we Kossuth ...... 33H Players 2 Watch (high school) ...... 27H I Inside page design: Brad Locke, John L. Pitts, John Wilbert. would work hard to gather all of it Lafayette County ...... 21H Tupelo ...... 20H I Editing: Brad Locke, John L. Pitts, other members of the Daily Journal sports even if we didn’t turn around and Leaders, 2007 area high school . . . .26H Tupelo Christian ...... 50H and news staffs. print it up for you. Locke, Brad (column) ...... 19H Vardaman ...... 48H I Writing: Parrish Alford, Gregg Ellis, Brad Locke, Gene Phelps, Brandon Speck, Take good care of our baby this Mantachie ...... 42H Walnut ...... 43H David Wheeler, John Wilbert. fall ... and have a great 2008 foot- Match that coach (quiz) ...... 53H Weekly prep schedule ...... 52H I Photos: Thomas Wells, C. Todd Sherman, Deste Lee, the Associated Press, Brad ball season. Millsaps ...... 15H West Point ...... 22H Locke, area newspapers as noted, courtesy sources. John L. Pitts

PAGE 4H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL MISSISSIPPI STATE: Can the Bulldogs win the SEC Western Division? Bulldogs out to prove in ’08 that they are no Cinderella I With an improved offense, State now that’s where the could very easily be shocked again. Ducre, Robert Elliott and Wade Bonner, has its eyes set on a bigger prize. sights are set. So, the big question: Can the Bulldogs and not to mention a receiving corps Sure. A year ago make a title run? that’s up-and-coming with guys like such a notion was Yep. And here’s why. Aubrey Bell, Jamayel Smith and Co-Eric ylvester Croom doesn’t want the laughable. Incon- Riley. success of last season to be de- ceivable. Today, few QB experience matters Granted, the offense has to be greatly fined as a one-year wonder. S are laughing, espe- While both Auburn and LSU have improved. A ranking of 113th nationally Nor does he expect that to be the cially the eight that laden-field rosters, there’s inexperience won’t cut it. But with a few tweaks here case. fell victim to the at both camps when it comes to their and there, Croom is confident the of- It was a year, he said, that was a Bulldogs during the respective quarterback situation. And in fense will be more productive and con- major step forward in the rebuilding magical 2007 cam- the SEC, seasoned are a sistent. process. paign, where this necessity. That’s a must, because the team can’t The key now, though, is sustaining team proved it knew Gregg After all, name a Western Division rely solely on the defense to change the grid-iron accomplishments and how to win. champ in recent years where that was- momentum, even if the “D” is expected raising the expectation levels to new That’s why you’re ELLIS n’t the case. Of course, Wesley Carroll is to be solid again. and greater heights. Reverting back to hearing a few rum- only a sophomore. However, he gained Eight wins? 10? It could happen. But the losing ways of those down-trodden blings of a Western Division crown invaluable experience last year and to avoid “one-year wonder” trap, you seasons, well that’s just not an option. making its way back to Starvkille, 10 showcased the propensity to be an ef- just can’t fall back into the three-win And that’s evident in his goals. years after State claimed its first. fective leader and winner on the field. category. A winning season and garnering a Now, if you were to poll 10 people, Second, the Bulldogs have confi- That would be devastating to the re- mid-level bowl bid are no longer the nine would say MSU has no chance to dence. They defeated three of their divi- building process. top objectives for Mississippi State. win the West. Heck, half would proba- sional foes last year, including two that Now, it’s much, much more. bly say last year’s eight wins were an played in bowl games. Gregg Ellis ([email protected]) covers And rightfully so. anomaly. Third, State has depth in the back- Mississippi State for The Daily Journal and blogs about Conference titles and BCS bowls, Well, those nine prognosticators field with Anthony Dixon, Christian MSU athletics at djournal.com.Visit our Blog Center. THE BULLDOGS: POSITION BY POSITION Quarterbacks lege, has never played a down of Divi- Receivers beating out Quentin Saulsberry. as a junior, Mississippi State entered I Thanks to numerous injuries a year sion I football. Still, he was impressive I Gone is Tony Burks, one of the Bull- the spring with all four starters in the ago to his teammates, Wesley Carroll enough in the spring that he went from dogs’ top receivers the past two years. Defensive linemen secondary back. Now, though, that total found himself thrust into a precarious being a walk-on to earning a scholar- However, that doesn’t mean there’s a I stands at three due to Anthony Johnson ship. He is likely to play in every game. The good news for MSU is that it withdrawing from school following his situation as a true freshman. void. Back are Jamayel Smith, Brandon signed seven defensive linemen in Feb- A starting quarterback in the South- McRae, Aubrey Bell and Co-Eric Riley. involvement in an on-campus shooting ruary. That’s important to note because incident. eastern Conference. Running backs But it’s Smith that will likely take over graduation took its toll up front. How And as a result, there was no time to I While MSU was playing musical Burks’ role as the go-to playmaker. That However, Marcus Washington got much the newcomers contribute is still most of the snaps in the spring due to a prepare or develop the proper mindset chairs with its quarterbacks early in the emergence actually began last year, unknown. So that leaves Croom and and necessary tech- season, the one constant was Anthony when the 6-foot speedster grabbed 33 broken leg Johnson sustained in the first-year defensive coordinator Charlie season finale against Ole Miss. That niques. It was pretty Dixon. passes for a team-high 510 yards. Harbison relying on guys that weren’t much learning on As a freshman, he showed signs of At the same time, Croom noted should at least make for a smooth tran- every-down players last season. sition. the go. greatness. As a sophomore, he proved McRae could be just as big of a threat. At the end slots, Sean Ferguson and “We weren’t able he was one of the “He has a chance to be an outstand- With their experience, coupled with Tim Bailey have emerged as starters. the return of Jasper O’Quinn to left cor- to work on the little top backs in the SEC. On Page 7 ing receiver for us,” he said. “He’s just On the inside, it’s Kyle Love and Jessie things with his me- He also had the I Read more got to be able to perform when the ner and Keith Fitzhugh at strong safety, Bowman. MSU is on course to once again be one chanics because we knack of finding the about MSU’s lights come on.” State also has depth with Cortez Mc- had to get him end zone, as evident Anthony Dixon. The same can be said for incoming of the top pass defending teams in the Craney, Reggie Odom, LaMarcus SEC. Last year, the Bulldogs were third, ready for the of his 14 touch- freshman Delmon Robinson. And it’s his Williams and Jimmie Holmes. CARROLL game,” MSU coach downs. A workhorse indeed, and one speed, Croom points out, that's really yielding 174.5 yards. Sylvester Croom that’s tough to bring down. made a difference in practice. said. “We just didn’t have time. It was There were times Croom questioned Linebackers I Special teams all about learning the playbook.” his consistency, but Dixon used the criti- Lack of experience certainly isn’t a I Kicking duties will again be entrust- Offensive linemen factor in the linebacker corps. Back are And considering the circumstances, cism as motivation. And now that there’s I This was supposed to be one of the ed to punter Blake McAdams and Carroll did pretty well depth, he knows he can’t take a play the Bulldogs’ top two leading tacklers in placekicker Adam Carlson, players that strengths of the team. But when left Jamar Chaney and Dominic Douglas, a Despite his inexperience on the col- off. tackle and NFL prospect Mike Brown improved their numbers from the previ- legiate level, he didn’t throw an inter- But he won’t have to carry the load. tandem that accounted for 167 stops, ous year. Carlson connected on 10 of was dismissed following his arrest for a including 12.5 behind the line of scrim- ception in his first 136 passes. With Christian Ducre and redshirt felony charge, the unit took a major hit. his 13 attempts and provided the game But when spring rolled around, the freshman Robert Elliott, there shouldn’t mage. winner against Ole Miss on a 48-yarder. Now, the most experienced position is MSU does have to replace Gabe emphasis wasn’t on the playbook nearly be much of a dropoff. the least experienced. But the key to this unit is punt re- as much as it was the mechanics. Ducre turned out to be a pleasant O’Neal on the strong side but could be turner , who was fourth in But in early August, Derek Sherrod getting an upgrade with K.J.Wright, “My footwork and steps had to get surprise, while Elliott’s speed in the moved atop the depth chart. the SEC in punt returns with a 9.9 aver- better,” Carroll said. “As soon as the Lib- spring turned heads. who is considered somewhat more ath- age.The play that stands out is his 75- At left guard is All-SEC standout An- letic and bigger. erty Bowl was over, those are the things Wade Bonner, a former cornerback, thony Strauder, a 13-game starter in yard return against the Rebels in the I began to work on.” is now in the mix and adds even more 2007. MSU will also have a new center fourth quarter that sparked the come- Croom has seen the steady improve- depth. At fullback, Brandon Hart returns in J.C. Brignone, while Michael Gates is Defensive backs back. ment. The key now is to avoid injuries and is expected to have a larger role, penciled in at right guard. I Anchored by the return of senior free The chore of returning kickoffs be- because backup Tyson Lee, an All-Amer- whether it’s running or catching the ball That leaves right tackle, where Mark safety Derek Pegues, who returned two longs to Wade Bonner. ican out of Itawamba Community Col- out of the backfield. Melichar won the starting job after of his five for touchdowns Gregg Ellis NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 5H OLE MISS: The Houston Nutt Era begins An experienced staff tries to tap into roster’s promise I An experienced head coach and for several reasons. games – the win column – for Some of those guys have been in the talent should allow Ole Miss to win In Houston Nutt Ole Miss the last three years. program but not on the field. hired its most established Former coach The Rebels’ best players aren’t the more than one conference game. coach ever. He’s not only won, increased the talent in the only ones new to big-time football. he’s won in the SEC. Eight program but never seemed Greg Hardy, and Jamarca here’s a lot of excitement about bowl games in 10 years is a capable of pulling it all togeth- Sanford on defense, Mike Wallace, Shay Ole Miss football right now. The pretty good track record. er. Now, Ed was close. Alaba- Hodge and Mike Oher on offense have T question is why? In the what-have-you-done- ma the last three years, Geor- gotten it done in the SEC at their indi- This was a team that in 2007 did not lately approach to college gia, Auburn and LSU two vidual positions. win a game, football, Nutt’s has in his last years ago, Florida last year. Excitement in August is nothing new; the first for the program since 1982. game the best answer you Maybe an experienced head it’s tradition. This was a team that had a solid run- could possibly have: He beat Parrish coach and his staff would But there’s something about the ning game and skilled receivers but was No. 1 LSU on the road. ALFORD have successfully finished sev- prospect of an experienced coach, his never settled at quarterback and ap- Now, while he knows the eral of those close losses. experienced staff and available talent proached the end zone like a toxic SEC, his surroundings are new. Nutt has added to the talent he inher- that puts a little more spring in the step. cloud hung above it. Recent success does not guarantee ited, and there is potential with the Even for a team that didn’t win a con- This was team racked by frequent future success, but would you like to 2008 team with transfer quarterback ference game the year before. suspensions near the end of the season have it going into your new business Jevan Snead, running backs Cordera and ultimately the nuclear option – fire deal? Sure you would. Eason and Enrique Davis, defensive Parrish Alford ([email protected]) covers the coach, blow it up and start over. The Rebels have been woefully inept tackle , linebacker Allen Ole Miss for the Daily Journal. He blogs about Ole Miss Why get excited for this team? Well, on the business end of SEC football Walker and linebacker Patrick Trahan. athletics at http://djrebel.wordpress.com. THE REBELS: POSITION BY POSITION Quarterbacks prospect in South Texas. the starting spot at left guard. and left drills as the starter on the strong side. I Expectations are high for the Rebels’ third Third-year sophomore Derrick Davis, a high Daverin Geralds takes over at center, the only Walker has missed time with a knee sprain but transfer quarterback in three years, though school teammate of Eason’s, had a solid spring interior line position without a returning starter. should be back for Memphis. chances for success appear higher for Jevan and could also contribute. Senior Jason Cook re- Ashlee Palmer, the team’s leading tackler last Snead than for last year and Brent turns at fullback. Defensive linemen year as the strong side backer, left spring drills as Schaeffer two years ago. I A deep position has been severely stretched the starter on the weak side. Junior college trans- On Page 7 Snead, unlike Schaeffer, didn’t Receivers this month with injuries to two starters plus end fer Patrick Trahan will figure in somewhere. I Read more arrive on campus the night be- I So deep and experienced is this group that Greg Hardy, arguably the team’s best defensive about QB fore practice began. Instead, Nutt was able to move Marshay Green, a five- player. Defensive backs Jevan Snead. he’s gone through spring drills game starter last year, to cornerback. It all started when sophomore nose tackle Ted I While there’s talent and experience with the twice and is very familiar with Mike Wallace turned into a reliable deep threat Laurent went down in a late July voluntary condi- safeties, cornerback play is one of the greatest his surroundings and teammates. last year with six touchdowns and an SEC-best tioning workout. He had arthroscopic knee surgery concerns on the defense. Snead signed with Texas in 2006 but lost the 18.8 yards per catch. on July 28. Laurent could return in a week or so. Senior Jamarca Sanford, the Chucky Mullins starting job to another freshman, Colt McCoy. Also dependable was Shay Hodge, who became The Rebels also lost tackle Peria Jerry, an All- award winner, returns at strong safety. Snead was highly regarded coming out of high more of a go-to receiver on tougher, intermediate SEC candidate at tackle, to a knee sprain. Like Also back is sophomore Johnny Brown, who school in Stephenville, Texas and played well in a routes. Laurent, he should return before the Aug. 30 open- took over the free safety position in the middle of handful of games for the Longhorns, completing Most athletic in the group is junior Dexter Mc- er against Memphis. last season. 26-of-49 passes for 371 yards, two touchdowns Cluster. He’s played in eight straight games, the Hardy, who had surgery to repair a stress frac- Brown has missed virtually all of camp with a and two interceptions. longest stint in his career, after his freshman sea- ture in his right foot, will be out longer, perhaps hamstring injury. Junior Kendrick Lewis was run- He will be mobile enough to avoid pressure and son was cut short by injury. the first month of the season. ning first team until an ankle injury forced him out, run occasionally, but accuracy and arm strength Despite missing four games last year, McCluster Hardy was running second team at one end. He and redshirt freshman Fon Ingram took over. will be his chief assets. The unknown is what type was third on the team in receiving yards (326) and was the SEC sack leader last year with 10 and was Dustin Mouzon and Cassius Vaughn are the 1 of decisions he’ll make under fire. fourth in receptions (27). second in tackles for a loss with 18 ⁄2. only players with notable experience at corner, and If Snead goes down look for junior Billy Tapp or McCluster will be utilized in the “Wild Rebel” Long-awaited Jerrell Powe has been running they are presently the starters, though converted freshman to step in. formation, taking the shotgun snap from center. with the third team at nose tackle. receiver Marshay Green will push for time. Others to watch are sophomores Markeith Sum- For now, the starters are sophomore Kentrell Running backs mers and Lionel Breaux. At tight end former tackle Lockett and junior college transfer Emmanuel Special teams I It looks like junior Cordera Eason will finally get David Traxler, a senior, is the better blocker, while Stephens at the ends, freshman Justin Smith at I After Justin Sparks won the punting job from his chance. Eason, a prep All-American at Meridian junior college transfer Gerald Harris has the better nose and junior Marcus Tillman, a two-year starter Rob Park last season, the two were dead even in 2005, was billed as Ed Orgeron’s back of the fu- hands. at end, inside at tackle. leaving spring. Both have had good camps, and ture. Eason has battled problems holding on to the the position is unsettled. ball but improved in the spring and rushed for Offensive linemen Linebackers Sparks took over kickoff duties later in the year, more than 100 yards in the spring game. I Senior , a preseason All-American I Two of the three starters have little or no game and the Rebels improved in getting the ball deeper Freshman Enrique Davis, rated by Rivals.com as who considered entering the NFL draft in the experience. down the field. the nation’s No. 2 running back two years ago, spring, returns at left tackle, and there’s plenty of Middle linebacker Jonathan Cornell was a Place-kicker Joshua Shene struggled while deal- should push Eason for playing time. Davis signed experience along with him. starter on the weak side in early 2007 before a ing with a groin injury early in his sophomore sea- with Auburn two years ago but attended a prep There’s also a change, as senior Maurie Miller shoulder injury in Week 2 against Missouri forced son. He finished strong, hitting three of his last school and signed with Ole Miss in the spring. and junior swapped positions in the him out for the season. four field goal attempts, including a 51-yarder The surprise of camp, however, has been Bran- spring, Miller moving inside to guard and Jerry out- He was highly regarded coming from the Califor- against Auburn. don Bolden, whose hard running and versatility side to tackle. nia high school ranks to sign with Ed Orgeron’s Mike Wallace and Dexter McCluster will be have put him in the mix ahead of Devin Thomas, An early camp injury to Reid Neely (Achilles) second class. deep on kick returns, with Marshay Green and Mc- the third freshman back, of San Antonio. moved Darryl Harris, a senior who was granted a Third-year sophomore Allene Walk r was the Cluster fielding punts. One recruiting service rated Thomas the No. 1 sixth year of eligibility with a medical redshirt, into team’s most consistent linebacker in the spring Parrish Alford PAGE 6H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL

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3 983 NORTH GLOSTER STREET • TUPELO, MS • blackmonmazda.net • (662) 844-13 83 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 7H IMPACT PLAYERS: One has proven himself, the other finally gets his shot RB Anthony Dixon QB Jevan Snead

DESTE LEE BRUCE NEWMAN/OXFORD EAGLE VIA AP Anthony Dixon is the third-leading returning rusher in the SEC. Jevan Snead has worked with the Rebels for two springs since leaving Texas. Junior back doesn’t have It’s time for Texas transfer to talk to prove his mettle to show his stuff for Rebels BY GREGG ELLIS harsh. It was also one that cost him a BY PARRISH ALFORD horns, he did some good things. He Daily Journal start against UAB. Daily Journal passed for 190 yards and a touchdown Rarely will you find Anthony Dixon There have been other punishments, He has shown accuracy. He’s shown in a relief effort against Kansas State without a smile. Or not talking, for that too, even if less severe.Such as the time arm strength, and he’s shown decision- and for the season was 26-for-49 pass- matter. when he wasn’t allowed making ability. ing for 371 yards, two touchdowns and He is, mind you, a to speak with the He’s even shown some mobility, al- two interceptions. player who oozes with Anthony Dixon 2007 media. That might though Jevan Snead will rarely be asked “I have a lot of confidence in Jevan, personality. (Rushing yards and scoring) have even pained him to make plays with his feet. but that’s the only thing he hasn’t done Sometimes, though, LSU 13-29-0 more than being In short, Snead has done all he can do ... play. And it really helps going against the comments he tends at Tulane 27-131-2 benched considering as the quarterback for the Ole Miss the speed of the game,” Nutt said. to say land him in at Auburn 29-103-0 his propensity to find Rebels. Snead fully understands what his Sylvester Croom’s dog- Gardner Webb 15-88-2 an audience. He’s shown leadership with his team- transfer season away from the game house. at South Carolina 22-83-2 And because of those mates, attention to detail and ability in caused him to miss, but he’s confident Well, make that often UAB 32-152-3 well-publicized inci- the classroom. the looks he’s gotten when he’s faced times. Tennessee 26-108-1 dents, it might appear He’s shown it through two sessions of the Ole Miss defense will prepare him The jovial Mississippi at West Virginia 20-61-1 to outsiders the two spring drills and now an August camp for what is to come. State running back has at Kentucky 25-75-1 have an estranged rela- as the unchallenged starter. “I went all last year against our de- never been one to hold Alabama 26-84-1 tionship, one dominat- What Jevan Snead, the transfer from fense, and it’s a good defense with some back his remarks, even Arkansas 17-40-0 ed with controversy. the University of Texas, hasn’t shown is quick guys. Game speed is always dif- if he means no harm. Ole Miss 11-26-0 However, Croom is that he can do it when it matters most. ferent. I’m sure I’ll have to get used to it He just says what’s on Central Florida 24-86-1 quick to point out that’s “That’s the biggest thing we haven’t at first, but I feel like I’m going to be not the case at all. his mind, giving new 13 games: 287-1066-14 been able to evaluate,” Ole Miss coach able to adjust pretty well,” he said. “I don’t want you to meaning to the phrase, Houston Nutt said. Game speed is a significant indicator think Anthony and I “speaking before think- Snead will see game action for the of success, but Snead has shown too ing.” haven’t had a good relationship,” the first time in two years when the Rebels fifth-year coach said with a grin. “We’re much in too many areas for there to be Case-in-point: open at home against Memphis. much hand-wringing by his mates. Last year when Croom questioned his always on the same page. We just might Unlike his freshman season at Texas, not have been reading the same words “We respect Jevan,” wide receiver performance following the South Car- this will be his team. Mike Wallace said. “We respect his olina game, Dixon fired back with his Although he didn’t beat Colt McCoy own critique, one that was far less Turn to DIXON on Page 14H to win the starting job with the Long- Turn to SNEAD on Page 48H PAGE 8H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL SEC OVERVIEW: Gators favored to win league championship SEC Media Picks I Media voters expect Florida to Tigers favored in West be not only the Eastern Division Mister Heisman champ, but the SEC overall champ as well. Auburn is picked to win the West (with first-place votes ... no, not those Tigers and total points): a good reason BY GREGG ELLIS than we did last EASTERN DIVISION Daily Journal year.” 1. Florida (45) 98 Yes. It was LSU that won the national While a fast start 2. Georgia (23) 121 3.Tennessee (2) 222 to favor Florida championship a year ago. is key, so is solid play 4. South Carolina 266 Yet, it’s not thosee Tigers who were picked at the quarterback 5. Kentucky 356 6.Vanderbilt 407 BY PARRISH ALFORD to win the SEC’s Western Division crown. position. Daily Journal But who’s No. 1? That distinction be- With Tate back WESTERN DIVISION Florida coach Urban Meyer likes I While the media that covers longs to the Auburn Tigers. after rushing for 903 1.Auburn (48) 99 2. LSU (21) 120 the team he has coming back. the SEC favored Florida to win In his ninth year on the yards and eight 3.Alabama 228 From a 9-4 team he returns his top the league title, the national Plains, touchdowns, the 4. Mississippi State 299 5. Ole Miss (1) 338 four rushers, three of his top four re- media as represented in The As- guided the Tigers to a 9-4 Tigers know they’ll be 6.Arkansas 386 ceivers, and four sociated Press preseason poll ledger a year ago follow- able to run the ball. SEC Champion: Florida (36), of his top five prefers Georgia. ing a 23-20 overtime victory against Clem- The two big ques- Georgia (18),Auburn (13), LSU tacklers. The SEC placed six teams in son in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. tions, though, are will (1), Tennessee (1), Ole Miss (1). Oh yeah, and TUBERVILLE the Top 25, including four of the A total of 15 starters return, including they be able to pass his quarterback first 10 teams: leading rusher Ben Tate, top receiver and who’ll do the Elsewhere: won the 2007 . 1. Georgia Rodgeriqus Smith and safety Zac Etheridge, passing? I What’s not to like? 5. Florida who was second on the team with 65 tack- SEC schedule This Tuberville does know: It will either be The SEC media like Meyer’s team 7. LSU les. PAGE 10H Chris Todd or Kodi Burns. too, picking the Gators to win the 10. Auburn But Tuberville knows for his team to have In all likelihood, it will be Burns under Eastern Division and the overall title, 18. Tennessee a legitimate title run, it can’t get off to a center. The mobile QB did appear in nine while a lot of love was shown to rival 24. Alabama slow start like last season. games last year as a freshman, throwing for Georgia on the national scene. “The one thing that we didn’t do is we 145 yards and rushing for another 203. “You get seven wins on talent didn’t come out of the blocks,” he said. “We 35-14 at Tennessee. Turn to WEST on Page 10H alone. You mix in a little discipline, need to have a sense of urgency. A lot more and you’re up to eight or nine wins,” Coach Mark Richt’s emphasis on Meyer theorizes. “If you can develop a more emotion from his players got the little leadership, get off the field on ball rolling again, but the loss came fourth down, make the big play at the back to bite and kept the Bulldogs end of the game ... that’s when you out of the SEC title game and out of start having great things happen for the national championship discussion. your program.” Many believe that nine starters Florida was 5-3 in conference play back from the SEC’s No. 3 defense last year, a game behind co-champs could get Georgia in both discussions Georgia and Tennessee in the East. this year. The Gators return eight starters on may be the offense and eight on defense. league’s best quarterback not named For the SEC’s top scoring offense Tebow, and the backfield includes the last year, everything starts with quar- league’s top returning running back in terback . (1,334 yards, 14 He was also the Gators’ leading touchdowns). rusher with almost 900 yards and 23 “People started talking national touchdowns. championship after the Quarterback running is a function last year (41-10 over unbeaten of Meyer’s spread offense, and Tebow’s Hawaii). That’s too long to be chewing numbers don’t bother the coach. He’s on that bone, so to speak,” Richt said. confident when – who “We had to break it down into the also plays receiver – carries the ball, smallest component, which is today, and he has high hopes for redshirt what can you do today to get better freshman Chris Rainey. and to prepare yourself for the oppor- Defensively, the Gators were No. 1 tunity.” in the conference against the run but were more suspect against the pass. Tennessee They will have to fill two openings I Volunteers coach Phillip Fulmer, on the line but have an All-SEC caliber shortly after receiving a subpoena at player in linebacker Brandon Spikes. Media Days for an Alabama fan’s law- suit against the NCAA, credited his Licensed Ole Miss and MSU Georgia team’s focus and attitude because it Da il y J o ur n a l- 0 8 © I Much of Georgia’s preseason atten- had not had an off-field incident crop Appar el, Accessories and Novelty Items tion is related to its seven-game win up since February. streak to close 2007. Tennessee returns six starters on HistoricDowntown T upelo 842-6453 • Mall at Bar nes Cr ossing 842-5287 • www.r eeds.ms The Bulldogs got hot after losing Turn to EAST on Page 10H NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 9H SEC PROMINENCE: Coaches, players command major attention Florida QB has head on straight BY PARRISH ALFORD Daily Journal Florida’s Tim Tebow has a na- tional championship and a Heisman Trophy under his belt, and he’s only at the mid-way point of his college career. Sounds like football is pretty important in the life of the Gators’ quarterback. It is pretty important, he con- tends. It’s just not most impor- tant. ROB CARR/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS “Preaching in prisons, visiting Nick Saban isn’t the highest-paid SEC coach so he can go 7-6, as he did hospitals, trying to take advan- tage of the platform God has last season – his first in Tuscaloosa. blessed me with ... using it to be PHIL SANDLIN/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS an influence and to change Tim Tebow, Florida’s latest Heisman-winning quarterback, draws a crowd wher- peoples’ lives. That’s more im- ever he goes – whether it’s fans, the media or opposing defenders. portant to me than football.” SEC head coaches Football is still pretty impor- Gators get three summer lives of others during his travel, tant, and Tebow, the home- “breaks,” and Tebow used his to Tebow enjoyed walking in pub- schooled son of missionary par- take part in mission trips to the lic and not being recognized. ents, understands his obliga- Philipines, Croatia and Thailand. It isn’t that way in the states earning their keep tions. Florida coach Urban Meyer where a basic trip to Wal-Mart He was a leadership presence and his family accompanied presents a challenge and where SEC head coach BY GREGG ELLIS in the Gators’ summer workout Tebow on one of the trips. Tebow is pulled many direc- Daily Journal program. Meyer called it a “life-changing” tions with various obligations salaries at a glance Call them the 12 $1 million dollar But when he was away from event for his children. QB men. Or better yet, the SEC’s Million football, he was really away. The In addition to impacting the Turn to on Page 14H NICK SABAN Dollar Club. Alabama ...... $3.75M Take a look at the league’s 12 foot- ball coaches, and you’ll notice their pockets are swelling to record sizes. LSU ...... $3.75M With money. Lots of it. Yep. All 12 make at least $1 mil- N ORTH M ISSISSIPPI URBAN MEYER lion, with Alabama’s Nick Saban top- Florida ...... $3.4M ping out at a whopping $3.75 mil- lion. Talk about some serious S PORTS M EDICINE & dough. Arkansas ...... $2.85M Gas prices? Not a concern for O RTHOPAEDIC C LINIC,PLLC these men. TOMMY TUBERVILLE Stress pills? Well, that’s a different Auburn ...... $2.8M story. Without question, the “win now” approach demands instant and sus- MARK RICHT tained success. And with that comes Georgia ...... $2.8M conditional pressure. W illiam Rice, M.D. But to get the top coaches with the PHILLIP FULMER proven track records, schools are Stephen RSouthworth, M.D., F .A.C.S Tennessee ...... $2.6M forced to pay mind-boggling salaries. Nels Thorderson, M.D. STEVE SPURRIER The average salary in the SEC, you South Carolina . . . . .$1.75M ask? Try $2.43 million, according to salary figures obtained from various SYLVESTER CROOM media outlets. 662-840-5747 Mississippi State . . . .$1.7M “Again, we’re paid in a system where it’s reflective of capitalism HOUSTON NUTT and democracy that allows people Ole Miss ...... $1.7M to ascend,” said LSU coach Les Miles, who draws an annual salary Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. -5p.m. RICH BROOKS of $3.75 million. “I recognize that Kentucky ...... $1.1M I'm highly paid. I'm embarrassed by Longtown Medical Park it. If I had my father alive, he’d say, 4381 South Eason Blvd., Suite 303 - T upelo, MS ‘You're not worth it’. I'd say he's Vanderbilt ...... $1M right. “I think it's a wonderful piece of Source: Various media outlets 662-840-5747 Turn to COACHES on Page 48H PAGE 10H I SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL

SEC SCHEDULES opinion, the first that will allow them to To avoid another late-season slide, West get to the field,” Miles said. Saban knows he’ll have to get more ALABAMA GEORGIA OLE MISS That same formula may be used in consistent play out of Wilson. The prob- Official site: rolltide.com Official site: georgiadogs.com Official site: olemisssports.com Continued from Page 8H the backfield. Miles sees a running lem, though, is that he lost his top two A30 Clemson (at Atlanta), 7 p.m. A30 Geo. Southern, 11:30 a.m. A30 Memphis, 6 p.m. S6 Tulane, 6 p.m. S6 Central Michigan, 2:30 p.m. S6 at Wake Forest, 2:30 p.m. back by committee, one he hopes will targets in D.J. Hall and Matt Caddell. S13 Western Kentucky, 6 p.m. S13 at So. Carolina*, 2:30 p.m. S13 Samford, 6 p.m. be led by and Trindon However, Mike McCoy returns after S20 at Arkansas* S20 at Arizona State, 7 p.m. S20 Vanderbilt*, 6 p.m. “One thing I like about Kodi is that S27 at Georgia* S27 Alabama* S27 at Florida* Holliday. The good news is that they’ll hauling in 28 passes a year ago. O4 Kentucky* O11 Tennessee* O4 South Carolina* (HC) he’s durable,”Tuberville said. “The of- O18 Ole Miss* O18 Vanderbilt* (HC) O18 at Alabama* fense is built for a guy like him. You have a veteran offensive line with four From a defensive standpoint, Alaba- O25 at Tennessee* O25 at LSU* O25 at Arkansas* starters back. ma must find seven new starters. That’s N1 Arkansas State (HC) N1 Florida* N1 Auburn* know, he can probably run the ball 12, N8 at LSU* N8 at Kentucky* N15 Louisiana-Monroe 14, 15 times a game and take the Defensively, six starters are gone. a lot of holes to fill. But with Johnson N15 Mississippi State* N15 at Auburn* N22 at LSU* However, end , a pre- back, along with defensive back Ka- N29 Auburn* N29 Georgia Tech N28 Miss. State*, 11:30 a.m. beating and get back to the line of scrimmage.” season All-American candidate, and reem Jackson and linebacker Rolando ARKANSAS KENTUCKY SOUTH CAROLINA second-team All-SEC linebacker Darry McClain, rebuilding the unit will be Beckwith, return. Beckwith was credited somewhat less laborious. Official site: hogwired.com Official site: ukathletics.com Official site: uscsports.cstv.com LSU A30 W. Illinois, 6 p.m. A31 at Louisville, 2:30 p.m. A28 N.C. State, 7 p.m. I Why no love for LSU when it comes with 65 tackles a year ago, including S6 at La.-Monroe, 6 p.m. S6 Norfolk State S4 at Vanderbilt*, 7:30 p.m. 6.5 behind the line of scrimmage. S13 at Texas, 2:30 p.m. S13 Middle Tennessee S13 Georgia*, 2:30 p.m. to predicting the order of finish in the Arkansas S20 Alabama* S27 Western Kentucky S20 Wofford I O4 Florida* O4 at Alabama* S27 UAB West? Several reasons. There will be a lot of new faces at O11 at Auburn* O11 South Carolina* O4 at Ole Miss* For starters, the Tigers have no Alabama Arkansas this year. A lot. O18 at Kentucky* O18 Arkansas* (HC) O11 at Kentucky* O25 Ole Miss* O25 at Florida* O18 LSU* proven quarterback with any experi- I The Nick Saban era didn’t exactly From the head coach to the running N1 Tulsa, 1 p.m.(HC) N1 at Mississippi State* N1 Tennessee* ence. Second, LSU lost its leading rush- get off to the resounding start the Al- backs to the receiving corps and on N8 at South Carolina* N8 Georgia* N8 Arkansas* (HC) N22 at Mississippi State* N15 Vanderbilt* N15 at Florida* er, receiver and top three tacklers to abama faithful had hoped. down to the defense, the Razorbacks N29 LSU*, 1:30 p.m. N29 at Tennessee* N29 at Clemson the NFL. And third, a total of 11 starters Despite opening the year 3-0, the face a mound of uncertainty. AUBURN LSU TENNESSEE won’t be back. Crimson Tide finished the regular sea- But with Bobby Petrino now oversee- That’s not to say the Tigers don’t son with four losses, all by a touchdown ing the program and bringing an excit- Official site: auburntigers.com Official site: LSUsports.net Official site: www.utsports.com have returning players with at least or less. ing brand of offense to town, you might A30 La.-Monroe, 6 p.m. A30 Appalachian State, 4 p.m. S1 at UCLA, 7 p.m. S6 Southern Miss, 11:30 a.m. S6 Troy, 7 p.m. S13 UAB, 11:30 a.m. some experience. There’s just not a lot As for this year, 17 starters are back. not want to write off the Razorbacks S13 at Mississippi State*, 6 p.m. S13 North Texas, 7 p.m. S20 Florida* S20 LSU* S20 at Auburn* S27 at Auburn* of proven experience. Included in that mix are quarterback just yet. S27 Tennessee* S27 Mississippi State* (HC) O4 Northern Illinois, 6 p.m. “We’ve got a brand new team,” LSU John Parker Wilson, running back Terry The key, of course, is replacing run- O4 at Vanderbilt* O11 at Florida* O11 at Georgia* O11 Arkansas* O18 at South Carolina* O18 Mississippi State* coach Les Miles said. Grant and safety Rashad Johnson, who ning backs Darren McFadden and Felix O23 at West Virginia, 6:30 p.m. O25 Georgia* O25 Alabama* As for the quarterbacks, Miles has paced Bama with 94 tackles. Jones. And if quarterback N1 at Ole Miss* N1 Tulane, 7 p.m. N1 at South Carolina* N8 Tenn.-Martin, 1:30 p.m. (HC) N8 Alabama* N8 Wyoming, noon (HC) three choices – Jared Lee, Andrew “We want our team to reach their can find consistency and targets, N15 Georgia* N22 Ole Miss* N22 at Vanderbilt* N29 at Alabama* N29 at Arkansas*, 1:30 p.m. N29 Kentucky* Hatch and Jordan Jefferson. And before full potential as football players,” Saban Arkansas could put itself in a position the year is over, all three may have said.“That's every individual becoming to get into a bowl. FLORIDA MISSISSIPPI STATE VANDERBILT earned starts. a complete player so that they can Also key is finding someone to make “The most consistent performer, the have confidence and feel great about tackles. The Razorbacks lost their top Official site: gatorzone.com Official site: mstateathletics.com vucommodores.cstv.com A30 Hawaii, 11:30 a.m. A30 at Louisiana Tech, 5:45 p.m. A28 at Miami (Ohio), 6:30 p.m. guy that makes the play, the guy that is what they're able to accomplish as a five tacklers from last season. However, S6 Miami, 7 p.m. S6 SE Louisiana, 6 p.m. S4 South Carolina*, 7:30 p.m. S20 at Tennessee* S13 Auburn*, 6 p.m. S13 Rice least likely to turn it over, least likely to football player.We are making progress back is nose tackle Ernest Mitchell, S27 Ole Miss* S20 at Georgia Tech S20 at Ole Miss* make poor decisions, that will be, in my in that regard.” who has 20 starts to his credit. O4 at Arkansas* S27 at LSU* O4 Auburn* O11 LSU* O11 Vanderbilt* O11 at Mississippi State* O25 Kentucky* (HC) O18 at Tennessee* O18 at Georgia* N1 at Georgia* O25 Middle Tennessee (HC) O25 Duke (HC) N8 at Vanderbilt* N1 Kentucky* N8 Florida* sive coordinator Ellis Johnson, who left month, and shortly after his competi- N15 South Carolina* N15 at Alabama* N15 at Kentucky* East Sylvester Croom’s Mississippi State tion, junior Curtis Pulley, left the team. N22 The Citadel N22 Arkansas* N22 Tennessee* N29 at Florida State N28 at Ole Miss*, 11:30 a.m. N29 at Wake Forest staff, will help the Gamecocks rise Kentucky will return the reliable Continued from Page 8H above mediocrity. hands of receiver Dicky Lyons Jr., who *-SEC Games. Check official school Web sites for updated news on kickoff times throughout the season. South Carolina was first in the SEC in has 16 touchdown catches over the defense, eight on offense from a team pass defense, but last in rush defense last two years, seven last season. SEC championship games I The SEC Eastern that almost upset LSU in the SEC and next to last in turnover margin. Defensively, CB Trevard Lindley is on 1992 Alabama 28, Florida 21 2000 Florida 28, Auburn 36 champions lead the championship game, losing 21-14. The Gamecocks, hit with massive de- the watch list for the Thorpe Award for 1993 Florida 28, Alabama 13 2001 LSU 31, Tennessee 20 series 10-6, led by Among the three new starters on of- fensive injuries last year, will pin their the nation’s top defensive back. 1994 Florida 24, Alabama 23 2002 Georgia 30, Arkansas 3 1995 Florida 34, Arkansas 3 2003 LSU 34, Georgia 13 Florida (6-2), and fense will be at quarterback, where defensive hopes on two All-SEC line- 1996 Florida 45, Alabama 30 2004 Auburn 38, Tennessee 29 have outscored the Jonathan Crompton will take over. backers. was a first-team Vanderbilt 1997 Tennessee 30, Auburn 29 2005 Georgia 34, LSU 14 Western Division Also new will be offensive coordina- choice by the coaches last year, and 1998 Tennessee 24, Miss. State 14 2006 Florida 38, Arkansas 28 I As Bobby Johnson enters his seventh 1999 Alabama 34, Florida 7 2007 LSU 21, Tennessee 14 champs 418-349. tor and quarterbacks coach Dave Claw- , who received a medical season at Vanderbilt, the Commodores son, who takes over for . redshirt for 2007, was a first-team have won 14 games over the last three The former Ole Miss coach is now the choice in 2006. seasons, compared to six games over head coach at Duke. Offensively, wide receiver Kenny the first three seasons. “We’re certainly not without chal- McKinley, an All-America candidate, is That hasn’t added up to a bowl lenges as we go into this season,” Ful- on pace to break most of the school’s game, something Vanderbilt last mer said. receiving records. achieved in 1982. Running back Arian Foster, on pace If the Commodores are to reach the to become the school’s career rushing Kentucky postseason in 2008, it will be with a re- leader, could take pressure off the I Like South Carolina, Kentucky also built offense that is missing eight quarterback position. rose in the rankings before sliding at starters from the 2007 unit, including G unto wn the end. career receptions leader Earl Bennett. South Carolina The Wildcats must replace 2007 SEC George Smith and Sean Walker were I The Gamecocks were once ranked in passing leader Andre Woodson, along workable at receiver, each with three L iquor &Wine the top 10 last year but finished 6-6. with their top rusher and top two re- touchdown catches. Both are back, and Steve Spurrier called the 2007 sea- ceivers. the Commodores may need to show 348-5736 son “mediocrity at its best.” Sophomore Mike Hartline was more finesse this season behind a Located at Guntown •Exit on Hwy.45Half Blockon348 He hopes the schemes of new defen- tabbed to replace Woodson earlier this brand new offensive line. NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 11H CONFERENCE USA: New man takes over in Hattiesburg Fedora’s first victory: Winning over his players BY GREGG ELLIS “He’s new school,” said the SOUTHERN MISS around.” Daily Journal Biloxi native, who rushed for A30 La.-Lafayette, 6 p.m. And that’s what excites S6 Auburn, 11:30 a.m. With change comes uncertainty. 1,586 yards and 15 touchdowns S13 Arkansas State Fletcher. Maybe even reluctance. last season, while hauling in 29 S20 Marshall, 2:30 p.m. If anything, his role will in- O4 UTEP, 6 p.m. felt all of that after passes for another 227 yards. O11 Boise State, 7 p.m. crease, especially when it hearing the news that Jeff Bower had “He’s a player’s coach, and he O18 Rice, 2 p.m. comes to the passing game. been fired after 17 seasons and 119 wins interacts with us.” O25 Memphis, 7 p.m. He likes to be involved as N1 UAB, 7 p.m. on the sidelines at Southern Miss. Fedora’s exciting brand of N8 Central Florida much as possible, and with the “It all happened so fast,” said the jun- football has not only caught on N15 East Carolina, 2 p.m. new offense he’s likely to get his ior running back and reigning Conerly with Fletcher, but with the en- N29 SMU, 2 p.m. wish. Trophy winner. “No one really under- tire team. And fans, too. “It’s designed for players to stood what was happening. It was Fedora, who came to USM after three succeed,” he said with a grin. tough.” years at Oklahoma State, said the key to But don’t think for a moment the de- It wasn’t as if the program was strug- the spread is controlling tempo. And fense is going to be treated as a second- gling. After all, since 1997 the Golden Ea- with six offensive starters returning, he’s class citizen, because that’s not the case gles have garnered nine post-season confident the offense can produce some at all. bids, including last year’s GMAC Bowl in big numbers, even without an experi- Yes. Only four starters return. But in- Mobile. enced quarterback. cluded in the mix is junior linebacker And that’s why Fletcher was struggling In the preseason, Martevious Young Gerald McRath. to grasp the university’s decision consid- GEORGE CLARK/HATTIESBURG AMERICAN and Austin Davis found themselves The 2007 Conference USA Defensive ering all the success. Larry Fedora was hired to bring a “new-school” locked in a battle to earn the starting Player of the Year is coming off a season The worry, though, centered around approach to a Golden Eagles program that has nod. where he collected 139 tackles, including the new coach’s philosophy. enjoyed a remarkable run of success. “I always have been intrigued by the 12 behind the line of scrimmage. Also re- Would his role change? Would there be hurry-up offense,” Fedora said. “You’d turning is defensive back Eddie Hicks, a completely new scheme to learn? The 45-year-old Fedora built a favor- see teams do it near the end of games who was third on the team with 84 tack- Would the new guy be likable? able reputation in the collegiate ranks and move the ball with ease. I wondered les and second with three interceptions. Legitimate concerns. But after Larry thanks to his spread schemes, and once why you couldn’t do it all the time. “Everyone has bought in,” McRath Fedora was hired in December and he explained the complexities of the of- “I’m not a three-yards-and-a-cloud- said. “We’ve had a reputation for a long Fletcher had a chance to sit down with fense to Fletcher, he was sold on the di- of-dust guy. I’d rather watch paint dry. time as a great defense, and I don’t see his new coach, those worries evaporated. rection the program was headed. I’m about temp and moving the ball that changing.” CAN THE TIGERS MAKE SOME NOISE? BY GREGG ELLIS As for who’ll be this year’s Central SALE Daily Journal Conference USA 2007 Florida, West said it could very well be Tommy West understands the need East Division CUSA All his Tigers or even Southern Miss, which for preseason predictions. Central Florida 7-1 10-4 was picked third in the East. After all, he notes, it gives fans East Carolina 6-2 8-5 “I really like my team,”West said. “I something to debate until the games Memphis 6-2 7-6 may not be as comfortable with this begin. Southern Miss 5-3 7-6 bunch as I was this time a year ago, But don’t think for a moment the Marshall 3-5 3-9 but I feel we are better.” MOWERS eighth-year Memphis coach puts much UAB 1-7 2-10 The Tigers finished the 2007 cam- stock in where his team, or any other West Division paign with a 7-6 ledger after losing to WE SERVICE for that matter, is predicted to finish. Tulsa 6-2 10-4 Florida Atlanta in the New Orleans With the way he sees the balance of Houston 6-2 8-5 Bowl. Sixteen starters return, but WHAT Conference USA, West says you might Tulane 3-5 4-8 they’ll have a new quarterback and WE SELL!! as well pick names out of hat. Rice 3-5 3-9 running back. UTEP 2-6 4-8 It would be just as accurate, he ex- SMU 0-8 1-11 “I think they’re going to be good, but plains. they are young,”West said. “I’ve been in this business long 2008 COACHES POLL When asked a team to keep an eye East: 1, UCF. 2, East Carolina. 3, Southern Miss. enough to know what those predictions West: 1, Tulsa. 2, Houston. 3, UTEP. on, he said Southern Miss. mean,” he said. “And I can tell you on For starters, the Golden Eagles re- Aug. 1, they mean absolutely nothing. turn C-USA’s top defensive player in Get back to me in December.” ish than where we’ll start,” Knights linebacker Gerald McRath and Conerly For the record, the Tigers were coach George O’Leary said.“That’s all Trophy winner Damion Fletcher, who Lots to choosefrom: picked fourth in Conference USA’s East that matters.” rushed for 1,586 yards in 2007. diesel, gas burning, water cooled &air cooled Division. Central Florida, last year’s O’Leary’s troops were the surprise of Plus, West said, there’s always an in- overall winner, was tabbed first, while the league a year ago. creased excitement level with a new Tulsa was the team of choice in the After starting the season 2-3 follow- coach, such as Larry Fedora. Pro Turf Equipment West. ing a demoralizing 64-12 loss to South “When you look at this league, there Both teams have rosters filled with Florida, UCF reeled off seven victories are a lot of great coaches and teams,” experienced veterans, as each program in a row en route to the league title Fedora said. “But I know we can win 662-869-1300 returns 14 starters. and a berth in the Liberty Bowl, where big here at Southern Miss. I can’t wait “I’m more worried with how we’ll fin- it lost to Mississippi State. for the season to start.” www.gravely .comOff Highway 45NBy-pass - Saltillo, MS www.pro-turf.biz PAGE 12H I SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL SWAC: JSU won it, and the Tigers will wear a target this fall scouting report Rick Comegy Jacked up in Jackson needed just two BREAKDOWN I While the Tigers have been tabbed to seasons to get BY GENE PHELPS receptions for 456 yards and one TD, re- Daily Journal repeat as SWAC Eastern Division cham- Jackson State turns at wide receiver. However, the Rick Comegy’s excited about having a backfield is bare. The top two candi- pions, they head into the season with a back on top of former coach play quarterback this fall dates – Zarian Herring and Edward Lee new QB, former Mississippi State player the SWAC pack. for his Jackson State Tigers. – combined for nine carries and one Trae Rutland, who missed spring drills Trae Rutland, a 6-foot-2, 230-pound yard rushing last fall. after shoulder surgery. ... The defensive junior, who’s being counted on to re- Up front, offensive tackle Mikael Har- line will be a strength with Marcus Be- JACKSON STATE place graduated starter Jimmy Oliver shaw, a 6-4, 310-pound junior, is being nard and Dennis Coit back. ... Tigers under center, underwent shoulder sur- counted on to be the leader. were first in total defense last season, gery in the offseason. “He’s got that mean streak we’re look- giving up 282 yards per game. ... Key tigers fast facts “He got to watch, listen,” Comegy ing for,” Comegy said. “Our line will be game is Nov. 15 when the Tigers play said. “I think he matured. I believe it bigger, faster and stronger. I’ve never host to Alabama A&M. I Conference: SWAC, Eastern Division I made him a better quarterback. The seen an offensive line work as hard dur- 2007 record: 8-4, won SWAC championship game light came on for him.” ing the offseason.” TIGERS SCHEDULE I Coach: Rick Comegy (3rd year) I Rutland, a Mississippi State transfer, JSU’s “Dark Side” defense returns Official site: jsutigers.cstv.com Returning starters: 4 offense, 7 defense saw limited action in eight games last seven starters including All-SWAC line- A31 Hampton (at Orlando, Fla.) 1 p.m. season for the defending SWAC cham- backer Marcellus Speaks, who paced the S6 Stillman College 6 p.m. pions. He completed 20 of 59 passes for Tigers with 85 tackles. S13 Tenn. State (at Memphis) 6 p.m. 3 players to watch 302 yards with four interceptions. Outside linebacker Marcus Smith re- S20 at Grambling State* 6 p.m. He will lead an offense that returns turns after being hurt all last season. O4 Southern* 6 p.m. QB Trae Rutland, Jr just four starters. Gone are most of the “Expecatations are high for the de- I Saw limited action last season. O11 at Arkansas-Pine Bluff* 4 p.m. key players who helped the Tigers finish fense,” Smith said. “We should be as solid O18 at Texas Southern* 7 p.m. second in the league in total offense. as last year, but we want to be better.” O25 Mississippi Valley State* 3 p.m. WR Carlos Simpson, Jr Despite the losses, Comegy is excited One area where Comegy hopes to see N8 at Alabama State* 1 p.m. I Caught team-high 41 passes for 456 yards. about his offense’s potential. improve is the secondary. N15 Alabama A&M* 3 p.m. “We’re happy with the receivers we “We gave up too many big plays last N2 Alcorn State* 1 p.m. have coming back,” he said. “I think we season,” he said. “I think maturity and a LB Marcellus Speaks, Sr can throw the ball.” better understanding of underneath *–Southwest Athletic Conference game I Led team in tackles last year with 85 stops. Carlos Frost, who led the team with 41 coverage will help.”

Enjoyyour tailgating… TIGERS STILL HUNGRY AFTER WINNING TITLE W e’ll take car eofyour loans. BY GENE PHELPS league’s preseason poll of Daily Journal SWAC 2007 coaches and sports informa- Marcus Smith stood on the Eastern SWAC All tion directors. sidelines last December at Jackson State 7-2 8-4 Tigers offensive tackle, junior Birmingham’s Legion Field and Alabama A&M 6-3 8-3 Mikael Harshaw, said the team watched in pain as his team, Alabama State 4-5 5-6 hasn’t lost its hunger for suc- Jackson State, won the SWAC Miss. Valley 2-7 3-8 cess despite winning the title. championship. Alcorn State 2-7 2-8 “This is still a hungry team, It wasn’t the broken ankle Western players who still want a (cham- suffered in preseason drills that Grambling 8-1 8-4 pionship) ring,” he said. “Last was hurting the Tigers’ outside Southern 6-3 8-3 year was a great experience, the linebacker. Prairie View A&M 6-3 7-3 best time of my life. We have That injury had healed. Ark.-Pine Bluff 4-5 4-7 the potential to go back, but we Instead, Smith’s heart was Texas Southern 0-9 0-11 have to keep working.” hurting, hurting to be in the 2008 SWAC POLL Last season’s Western Divi- lineup and on the field for JSU’s Eastern: 1, Jackson State. 2, Alabama A&M. 3, sion champion, Grambling first league championship Miss.Valley. 4, Alabama State. 5, Alcorn State. State, was given a slight nod Kaylah Western: 1, Grambling. 2, Southern. 3, Prairie King, T r aci W aters, since 1996. View. 4, Ark.-Pine Bluff. 5, Texas Southern. over state rival Southern to re- T anya R ober ts “I really missed not getting to peat by the pollsters. play in that game,” said Smith, Grambling second-year a 6-foot-1, 200-pound senior predictions,” Smith cautioned. coach Rod Broadway would from Miami. “It hurt not to get “Last year was good for the love nothing better than to re- •Consolidate B ills to play.” Jackson State program. The city turn to Birmingham to avenge Smith’s goal, along with JSU’s, of Jackson waited a long time last season’s 42-31 title game •Take aDr eam Vacation is to return to Legion Field for for it. loss to JSU. His G-Men beat the the championship game this “Winning (the SWAC) helped Tigers 30-20 in Jackson during •Auto Loans season. The Tigers are the pre- build confidence in the coach- the regular season. •Small M ortgage Loans season favorite to repeat as es, players, fans and the pro- “We definitely think we can champions in the SWAC’s East- gram.” get better,” he said. “That’s our ern Division. JSU, which returns 11 starters goal. If we can do that then we (662) 841-9223 “We’ve got a lot of experi- – seven defense, four offense – have a chance to get back (to enced players returning, but we received 17 first-place votes Birmingham) and change the 2305 W . Main S treet,Suite C•Tupelo,MS don’t look much at preseason and 105 total points in the result.” NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 13H ALCORN STATE Braves’ new head coach scouting report BREAKDOWN I Look for a more up-tempo attack on braves fast facts offense from the Braves, whoever first- I Conference: SWAC, Eastern Division focuses on fundamentals year head coach Ernest Jones settles I 2007 record: 2-8 on at QB. ... Jones coached running I Coach: Ernest Jones (1st year) BY GENE PHELPS the quarterback spot,” he said. “I want a backs last season for the University of I Returning starters: 7 offense, 9 defense Daily Journal guy who understands defenses and can be Cincinnati. ... Jones played on ASU’s last Ernest Jones spent his first night as Al- a threat with his arm and feet. SWAC championship team in 1994. ... corn State’s new head coach watching “We definitely have two quarterbacks The Braves’ defense was ranked No. 8 in game tape. who can get it done in Hobson and Buck- the SWAC last season. Ernest Jones Despite the Braves’ 2-8 finish, he saw ley, but with the young high school quar- comes aboard as some positives. terbacks coming in, it will be competitive.” the head coach at “When you get a 2-8 team, you don’t Wide receiver Emmanuel Arceneaux be- his alma mater know what to expect. I saw players who lieves the competition at QB will only make could run and hit,” Jones said. “They just the Braves better. after a stint as an needed to clean up some things funda- “Whoever gets the ball after that battle TIGERS SCHEDULE assistant coach at mentally.” will have to be competitive ... and a leader,” Official site: alcornsports.com Division I That was the focus in the offseason and he said. A30 Southeastern Louisiana 5 p.m. Cincinnati. spring workouts. Alcorn’s defense will go as linebacker Lee S6 at Grambling State* 6 p.m. Jones was pleased with the results. Robinson goes. The 6-foot-3, 245-pound S13 at Troy 6 p.m. “They got after it,” he said. “I give them a senior made 82 tackles last season and is S18 Arkansas Pine Bluff* 6:30 p.m. chance to be competitive. We want them to considered by Jones to be his top player. S27 Southern University* 5 p.m. be in a situation where they are competi- “He got great leadership skills and he O11 at Mississippi Valley State* 1 p.m. 3 players to watch tive every week.” plays with a lot of energy,” the coach noted. O18 at Alabama A&M* 6 p.m. Finding a starting quarterback to lead “He makes the other guys better. He’s what O25 Texas Southern* (HC) 2 p.m. WR Emmanuel Arceneaux, S what he calls an “up-tempo” multiple you want at middle linebacker.” I N1 Alabama State* 1 p.m. Caught 34 passes for 523 yards and 4 TDs. scheme was tops on Jones’ list headed into Robinson made an impression on Jones N15 at Prairie View A&M* 2 p.m. the preseason. with his play in the spring game. He led the N22 at Jackson State* TBA LB Lee Robinson, Sr. Tony Hobson, a senior, and junior Tim team in tackles and returned a pass inter- *–Southwest Athletic Conference game I Returns as team’s leading tackler with 82 stops. Buckley have the experience edge, but ception 60 yards for a touchdown. don’t count out incoming freshmen Aaron “I don’t feel any pressure being consid- Shavers and Percy Turner. Both rookies will ered the leader,” he said. “We’re going to DB Roderick Williams, Jr be give a shot, Jones says. compete as a team. There are more leaders I Intercepted 2 passes and recorded 24 tackles. “I think we’ll have great competition for out here, not only me.”

MISS.VALLEY STATE scouting report Whatever it takes to win, BREAKDOWN I A new QB, Ryan Burciaga, and the delta devils fast facts experienced backfield of Johey Hargrett I Conference: SWAC, Eastern Division and Ronald Brewer should give the Dev- I 2007 record: 3-8 versatile Hargrett is ready ils’ spread attack plenty of firepower. ... I Look for a more blitz-oriented defense Coach: Willie Totten (7th year) BY GENE PHELPS this conference.” I from a unit that was near the bottom of Returning starters: 8 offense, 7 defense Daily Journal The key question for Totten will be who Johey Hargrett’s not sure how he’ll fit is going to hand off and throw the ball to the SWAC last fall. ... Head coach Willie into Mississippi Valley State’s offensive Hargrett and Brewer. Three quarterbacks Totten is beginning his seventh season 3 players to watch scheme this season. entered the fall contending for the at his alma mater. He had back-to-back “The coaches want me to get more starter’s job. six-win seasons before last year. QB Ryan Burciaga, Jr. touches,” said the team’s leading rusher in Last year’s starting QB, Paul Roberts, fell I Won the starting job in the spring, started in 2006. “All I want to do is win.” to No. 3 in spring practice while Ryan Bur- DELTA DEVILS SCHEDULE three games last season. Hargrett, a 6-foot, 213-pound junior, ciaga and Semaj Williams moved ahead. Official site: played tailback, fullback and tight end last Burciaga, a sophomore, started in the www.mvsu.edu/athletics/football final three games of 2007 and passed for season for the Delta Devils after rushing A30 Texas College 5 p.m. WR-RB Johey Hargrett, Jr 560 yards and three TDs. Totten says that for 698 yards as a freshman. Last season, S13 at Southern* 5 p.m. I Versatile player who gives Devils a go-to receiver he rushed for 247 yards and caught 11 while the QB race is open, it’s Burciaga’s and running back. passes for 129 yards. job to lose. S20 Prairie View A&M* 5 p.m. While Hargrett was used in various roles “I saw him mature this spring,” the S25 at Alabama State* 7 p.m. last season, 210-pound rookie Ronald coach said. “He really stepped up.” O11 Alcorn State* 1 p.m. LB Kevin Golden, Jr. O18 Savannah State (HC) 1 p.m. I Recorded 35 tackles last season. Brewer led Valley in rushing with 762 Defensively, Valley has adopted a new yards and seven scores. blitz-oriented scheme – the 4-2-5 – to O25 at Jackson State* 3 p.m. Brewer’s emergence at tailback gives hopefully end its stay at the bottom of the N1 Grambling State* 1 p.m. Valley coach Willie Totten the option of SWAC in that category. N8 at Texas Southern* 2 p.m. using Hargrett in varying roles. The Devils, who finished 3-8 overall, N15 at Arkansas-Pine Bluff* 4 p.m. “We’ve got to have him on the field,” gave up 354 yards per game last season, N22 Alabama A&M* 2 p.m. Totton said of Hargrett. “He’s the reason which ranked ninth in the 10-team con- *–Southwest Athletic Conference game we’ve made changes in our offense. I ference. think he’s better than he’s ever been since “We had to make some changes,” Tot- he’s been at Valley. ten said. “We’ve brought in some guys “He could be one of the better backs in who we think will make us better.” PAGE 14H I NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL

Several ways, he points out. Dixon First, there’s leverage and pad level. Also, there’s periph- Continued from Page 7H eral vision. And perhaps as important is simply listening at the same time. His philoso- to what his coaches have to phy and the way I think have say and trusting their input. always meshed. “He’s always known what ‘Something to prove’ I’ve expected from him, and I “You see a more confident don’t think there was any con- Anthony Dixon,” quarterback flict there. It’s just that he was Wesley Carroll said. “He’s young and a little bit imma- more determined, like he has ture, and every now and then something to prove. He’s one he wanted to do things his of the best backs in the SEC, way.” and he understands more is There is certainly no ques- expected from him.” tioning his ability with the Oh, he learned quickly after ball in his hands. being benched last year what is expected. Born playmaker And to his credit, he re- The 6-foot-1, 240-pound sponded. bruiser is a playmaker and Although he didn’t start has been since his standout against the Blazers, he was a prep days at Terry. key cog in the Bulldogs rally- His first year at MSU, he ing in the fourth quarter to rushed for 668 yards and nine post a 30-13 victory. touchdowns, both freshman Dixon finished with a ca- records. Last season, he to- reer-high 152 yards and taled 1,066 yards, the ninth scored three times, with two time in school history the of the touchdowns coming in 1,000-yard mark has been the final frame. bettered. “I guess you could say that “A.D. had a good year last was a wake-up call for me,” he year by anybody’s standards,” said. “Coach got my attention. Croom said. “Hey, a guy gains I knew I had to have a big a 1,000 yards and leads us to a game. And knew there were , but when you times I just needed to shut look at the film, he left at least up.” 500 yards out there. At least Dixon eclipsed the 100- 500 yards.” yard mark four times a year For Dixon, an interdiscipli- ago after doing so twice as nary studies major, that’s the freshman. He’d like to have at focus of his improvement. least that many combined “I don’t want to leave noth- this fall in order to reach his ing on the field,” he said. ultimate personal goal. “That’s what I’ve worked on.” “Every back wants a 1,000 …MLM Style So, how does one go about yards,” he said. “But you want Pr oviding a wide selection of Game Day working on ensuring that to win, too. It’s sweet when doesn’t happen? you get both.” attir eforthe Bulldog or Rebel in you.

to the top. “Dr ess B etter Than Y ou Hav e T o” QB The SEC media picked Flori- da to win the overall title. The Continued from Page 9H Gators were third in the East- ern Division last year, a game and requests that go along behind co-champs Tennessee with a high profile. and Georgia, in Tebow’s first “I do worry about people season as a starter. pulling at him, but it’s a non- “My biggest goal this year is issue as far as him being fo- to become a better decision- cused,” Meyer said. “He has maker,” he said. “When I ap- his head on straight.” proach the line I have to rec- Keeping up with condition- ognize defenses faster and get ing abroad sometimes meant us into the best play faster. rocky shorelines and moun- “What separates guys like tain paths. Peyton Manning and Tom But Tebow got it done, and Brady is their decision-mak- history’s first sophomore ing. They’re not blessed with DOMLMCLOWNT OTWHIERSN TUPELO Heisman winner returns for more athletic ability, they just 108 South Spring •Tupelo, MS • 842-4165 • T OLL FREE 1-800-748-8915 • [email protected] his junior season intent on make better decisions on the M ON.-F RI. 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM • S A T .10:00 AM -5:00 PM trying to get the Gators back field.” NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 15H STATE SMALL COLLEGES: They’ve got big dreams of their own Belhaven Delta State Millsaps Miss. College The Blazers The Statesmen The Majors The Choctaws I Affiliation: NAIA I Affiliation: NCAA Division II I Affiliation: NCAA Division III I Affiliation: NCAA Division III I Conference: Mid-South I Conference: Gulf South I Conference: Southern Collegiate Athletic I Conference: American I Head coach: Don Lee I Head coach: Ron Roberts I Head coach: Mike Dubose I Head coach: Norman Joseph I 2007 record: 5-6 I 2007 Record: 10-2, 8-0 GSC I 2007 Record: 8-2 I 2007 Record: 8-2 I Top three returning players: WR Anthony I Top 3 returning players: QB Dedrick Wilson, I Top 3 returning players: QB , S I Top three returning players: QB Adam Shaffer, Embry, LB Reginald Lumpkin, S Cameron Achord OL Mark Ellis, LB Anthony King Kevin Peters, WR Eric McCarty DE Brannon Willisson, S Ryne Davison. Inside scoop Inside scoop Inside scoop Inside scoop I The Blazers, who competed in the NAIA’s Mid- I After an unbeaten Gulf South Conference I Third-year Majors coach Mike DuBose knows I The Choctaws have shown steady improvement South Conference, hope to avoid the early slump record the season didn’t end the way Delta State how close his team was to a perfect regular sea- under Norman Joseph, who enters his fourth sea- that cost them in 2007 would have preferred, as the son. A last-play, lateral-filled son as head coach. MC when they dropped Statesmen surrendered a pass reception by Trinity and an was 8-2 last season and three of their first four fourth-quarter lead and lost to earlier one-point loss to rival begins the 2008 campaign games. GSC rival North Alabama in the Mississippi College were the ranked No. 25 in the na- A 5-3 mark the rest second round of the Division II only setbacks for Millsaps. tion and expected to con- of the way wasn’t enough to reel in a second- playoffs. Trinity’s win over Millsaps tend for the American Southwest Conference title. straight winning season. Belhaven, playing on the gave it the Southern Collegiate Athletic Confer- The Choctaws last won the title in 1997. road, lost on the final Saturday and finished 5-6. ence title and the Division III playoff berth. Du- Offense Bose led Millsaps to the SCAC title in 2006, his “Our players are hungry to win and dedicated I The Statesmen return two successful quarter- first season as head coach.The Majors’ playoff Offense themselves in the off-season,” Belhaven coach backs, runner Dedrick Wilson and passer Garrett I Junior quarterback Adam Shaffer has thrown berth then was their first in 31 years. Don Lee said. “Last year’s disappointments will DeWitt. 56 touchdown passes in two seasons and is con- Northeast Mississippi is represented by Nettle- not overshadow this year’s dreams.” Former Baldwyn standout Blake Barnes joins sidered a legitimate NFL prospect. ton’s Will Hawkins (LB) and Jami Boland (QB), the mix having transferred from Georgia for his The concern is who will catch those passes. MC Mooreville's Cade Cork (LB), Amory’s David Dale final season of NCAA eligibility. returns five offensive starters, Shaffer and his line- Offense (LB), Booneville's Colby Langston (LB) and I The Blazers lose a 1,000-yard receiver in Wilson ran for a team-best 726 yards and tied men. Gone are last season’s top receivers, Jake Corinth's Evan Bauer (K). Graylin Allison, but return all-conference receivers for a GSC best 12 rushing touchdowns last year. Allen and Marcus Terry, who combined for 118 re- Anthony Embry and Barry Johnson. Embry had DeWitt started the final five games and passed ceptions and 32 touchdowns. 1,144 receiving yards and led the nation in yards for 258.2 yards a game, a figure that would have Offense The coaching staff is confident in the new tal- per catch at 22.0. ranked second in the GSC had he had more I Eight starters return, led by quarterback Juan ent, particularly junior college transfer Tarkan Who will deliver the ball is presently unknown, snaps. Joseph, whose success in the spread offense has West, who was able to enroll last winter and go as none of three players won the quarterback job The team’s top receiver, Chad Schroeder, re- earned him SCAC offensive player of the year hon- through spring drills. in a spring competition. turns, as does preseason All-America tackle Mark ors the last two seasons. He passed for 2,860 There will be some experience at running back There is experience along the offensive line, Ellis. yards and 31 touchdowns last year. with Gerald Brown, and freshman Desmond Mays and junior college transfers Shaun Ector (wide re- Joseph’s top receivers, Eric McCarty (50, 748, could contribute. He was the Class A player of the ceiver) and Ricardo Bolton (running back) are ex- 7 TDs) and Raymece Savage (36, 427, 2 TD) also year in Texas. Defense return. pected to contribute as well. I Outside linebacker Anthony King is also a pre- Running back Nick Namias is back. He aver- season All-American. He finished with 51 tackles, aged 4.8 yards per carry on 77 attempts. Defense 18 tackles for loss and five sacks last season. I Eight starters return for the second season of a Defense All four players are seniors. I NAIA sack leader Eric Ortiz returns, as the de- Middle linebacker Lardester Green-Hicks also gambling 3-3-5 system under defensive coordina- With all the experience on the field there could fensive line looks to be strongest area for new co- returns after totaling 11 tackles for loss and two tor Bryan Young. still take a game or two to get chemistry among ordinator Bobby Ladner, who is entering his third forced . Senior end Brannon Willisson thrived in the 3- an offensive staff with three new coaches. season on the staff. Safeties Robert Watts and Aaron Williams and 3-5 with 40 tackles, 23 of them solo stops. He The Blazers also return playmakers at line- cornerbacks Dominic Spinks and Jarel Preston ranked third in the league in tackles for loss (15 backer with leading tackler Reginald Lupmkin (73 are also returning players. Defense 1/2) and sacks (eight). stops) and in the secondary wtih all-conference Delta State led the GSC in total defense last I Defense was DuBose’s specialty at Alabama, Linebacker Brett Barnhill is back after freshman 1 safety Cameron Achord. year. and the Majors led the conference in total de- season with 42 tackles, 6 ⁄2 tackles for loss. Transfers Eric Ducksworth and DeMorrius Jones Parrish Alford fense, rushing defense, pass efficiency defense Senior safety Ryne Davison had 45 tackles, 30 are expected to make an impact as well. and scoring defense last season. solos. He has 12 interceptions for his career and “This may be one of the fastest and most ag- Seven starters are back including linebacker needs four more to tie the school record. gressive defenses we’ve had here in a long time,” Lee Klein (two forced fumbles) and safety Kevin Parrish Alford Ladner said. Peters (four interceptions). Parrish Alford Defensive line depth is a concern. Parrish Alford 2008 Schedule 2007 Results (All times p.m.) S1 at Jackson State W 27-15 2008 Schedule 2007 Results S6 at McNeese St. 7:00 S15 Henderson State W 9-7 (All times p.m.) S1 Concordia L 32-17 S13 Ark.-Monticello* 6:00 S22 at Ouachita W 42-10 2008 Schedule 2007 Results 2008 Schedule 2007 Results A30 at West Alabama 7:00 S8 at So. Nazarene L 28-21 S20 at Henderson State* 6:00 S27 Southern Ark. W 28-3 (All times p.m.) A30 at Mississippi Coll. L 27-26 (All times p.m.) A30 Millsaps W 27-26 S6 at Concordia 5:00 S15 Texas College W 55-43 S27 Ouachita Baptist* 3:00 O6 Arkansas Tech W 43-14 S6 Mississippi College 7:00 S8 at Louisiana Coll. W 44-10 S6 at Millsaps 7:00 S15 Texas-Lutheran W 34-5 S13 Millsaps 7:00 S22 Bethel College L 49-20 O2 at Valdosta State* 7:00 O11 at Valdosta State W 35-31 S13 at Belhaven 7:00 S15 at Austin College W 43-10 S13 at Cumberland 1:30 S22 at McMurry W 47-14 S27 at Bethel* 6:30 S29 Pikeville College W 48-28 O11 West Alabama* 3:00 O18 at North Alabama L 28-17 S20 Austin College* 1:00 S22 Rhodes College W 42-0 S20 McMurry* 6:00 S29 Hardin-Simmons L 45-42 O4 Faulkner* 1:30 O6 at Cumberlands L 41-28 O16 North Alabama* 7:00 O27 West Georgia W 41-9 S27 at Rhodes* 1:00 S29 at DePauw W 35-17 S27 at Hardin-Simmons* 2:00 O6 at Louisiana Coll. W 42-34 O11 West Virginia Tech 1:30 O13 at U. of Virginias L 69-28 O25 at Southern Ark.* 2:00 N3 at West Alabama W 20-9 O4 DePauw Univ.* 1:00 O6 Centre College W 29-7 O4 Louisiana College* 6:00 O13 at LaGrange Coll. W 50-7 O18 at Campbellsville* 1:30 O20 Shorter College W 25-21 N1 Arkansas Tech* 3:00 N10 at Ark.-Monticello W 51-14 O11 at Centre* 1:30 O13 at Sewanee W 45-7 O18 at Mary-Hardin Baylor* 1:00 O20 Mary-Hardin Baylor L 69-30 O25 Cumberland* 1:30 O7 at Lambuth W 47-44 N8 at West Georgia* 6:00 O18 Sewanee* 1:00 O27 Trinity L 28-24 O25 East Texas Baptist* 6:00 O27 at E. Texas Baptist W 45-21 N1 Lambuth* 1:30 N3 Campbellsville W 48-20 NCAA playoffs N1 at Trinity* 1:30 N3 at Colorado Coll. W 68-6 N1 at Howard Payne* 1:00 N3 Howard Payne W 31-10 N8 at Shorter* 12:30 N10 at Cumberland L 35-34 N17 Shaw W 45-7 N8 Colorado Coll.* 1:00 N10 Birmingham-So. W 58-7 N8 Sul Ross State* 1:00 N10 at Sul Ross State W 56-35 N15 at Union 12:30 N24 at North Alabama L 20-17 N15 at Birmingham-So.* Noon N15 at Texas Lutheran* noon *–Mid-South Conference games *–Gulf South Conference games *–Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference games *–American Southwest Conference games PAGE 16H I SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL COMMUNITY COLLEGES: Indians seeking another state playoff trip scouting report Finding a QB is Job 1 BREAKDOWN I I Three-man battle is the highlight ented,” Carter said. “He’s got a really The top priority in the Indians camp is finding a quarterback to replace of Indians’ preseason camp. strong arm.” McFadden’s was a double threat in record-setting passer Tyson Lee, who quickly worked his way into a scholar- BY GENE PHELPS high school, passing for 1,131 yards ship after walking on at MSU. Daily Journal and rushing for 1,056 his senior sea- 1 I Trevor Newsome, a 6-foot-8 ⁄2, 300- Itawamba opened fall practice with son. three major concerns, head coach Jeff “He throws the ball a lot better than pound sophomore tackle from Starkville Terrill said: “Quarterback, quarter- I thought he would,” Carter said. is being counted on to anchor the OL. C. TODD SHERMAN I back, quarterback.” When the Indians are not throwing, DE Pernell McPhee, who recorded Jeff Terrill leads the only football program to make the The Indians must find a signal-caller they’ll be handing off to 6-foot, 230- 19 sacks and 36.5 tackles for losses as state junior college playoffs for the last four seasons. to replace All-American Tyson Lee, pound running back Debrael Smiley, a a freshman, returns up front. who passed for a school-record 4,432 freshman from Florida who signed out yards during his two-year career in of high school with Florida State. He’ll ITAWAMBA CC Fulton and is not a backup at Missis- be joined by returnee Kenard Springer. sippi State. “Both of those guys are pounders; indians fast facts The candidates headed into the fall they’ll black and blue you,” Carter said. were Shannon’s Michael Ledbetter, I Region: MACJC North Grenada’s Oliver Hughes and Amory’s McPhee brings the hammer I 2007 record: 7-3 (won division, lost to Jones in first Richard McFadden. Defensively, Pernell McPhee returns round of state playoffs) “We’re going to see where the com- at end where he recorded 19 sacks and I Coach: Jeff Terrill (7th season) petition takes us,” offensive coordina- 36.5 tackles for losses as a rookie. I Returning starters: 6 offense, 6 defense tor Jeff Carter said of the QB race. “I like “He’s bigger and stronger, but he their attitudes. They’re out there com- knows he’s starting this year with zero INDIANS SCHEDULE peting like they want the job.” sacks and no plays,” Terrill said. “He’s Aug. 28 at Jones County 3 players to watch Ledbetter, who passed for 2,705 potentially one of the best I’ve Sept. 4 Miss. Gulf Coast yards and 27 TDs last season, ran ICC’s coached.” Sept. 11 Northeast* RB Debrael Smiley, Fr. spread-style attack at Shannon. ICC’s secondary features corner- Sept. 18 at Northwest* I Signed with Florida State out of high school. “He makes good decisions,” Carter backs Austin Thomas, a sophomore, Sept. 25 at Miss. Delta* noted. and Bernard Brinson, a freshman FSU Oct. 2 Holmes* DE Pernell McPhee, So. Hughes missed some of his senior signee. “This may be the best corner- Oct. 9 Hinds I Preseason All-American made 19 sacks last season. season because of disciplinary rea- backs we’ve had,” Terrill noted. Oct. 18 at East Mississippi* sons, but not before he passed for 375 The linebacker position is wide open Oct. 25 Coahoma* (HC) yards and three touchdowns against and will be filled by freshmen, includ- *–North Division games P Heath Hutchins, So. Tupelo. ing former Tupelo standout Keith El- I Averaged more than 40 yards per kick “He’s a little rusty, but he’s very tal- liott and Okolona’s Willie Grady. Hutchins gets a real kick out of making good punts BY GENE PHELPS average for field position bring a “My freshman year I was just kick- Daily Journal huge grin to the face of his head ing a junior high-sized ball around Heath Hutchins enjoys what he coach, Jeff Terrill. and one of the football coaches calls a game of “punt golf” during “Heath can turn a field around told me I needed to come out for his daily workouts at Itawamba’s for you in a game,” he said. “He football.” football stadium. can gain you 80 to 100 yards. Hutchins says his switch to The game, developed by the In- “Let’s just say this, it’s never a punter came natural, especially dians’ sophomore punter from bad thing for ICC when we punt.” after he bought his first pair of “I’d rather punt Saltillo, helps him with his pooch Hutchins has the leg to punt kicking cleats. the ball 40 yards punting accuracy. with the nation’s best. He averaged “My legs aren’t that strong, so I “I’d rather punt the ball 40 yards 41.8 yards per punt last season, guess it’s more leg speed,” he said. inside the 5-yard inside the 5-yard line than punt sixth best in the country. His “I just stretch and work on flexibil- line than punt one one 70 yards,” Hutchins said. longest kick last fall traveled 60 ity. I know the technique pretty “ “There’s nothing like watching a yards, in the rain, against Missis- well.” 70 yards. There’s ball roll inside the pylon.” sippi Delta. Hutchins hopes his kicking nothing like watch- In last season’s MACJC North Di- The longest kick of his career draws some interest from four- vision win against Northwest, five was an 81-yard effort his sopho- year schools. He’s even entertained ing a ball roll inside of his eight punts backed the more season in high school. thoughts of punting on the profes- the pylon.” “That was just my second time sional level. Rangers up behind their 5-yard Heath Hutchins line. For the season, 30 of his to ever punt in a game,” he said. “If I can make it to a big school, I punts settled inside the oppo- Last summer, Hutchins attended know I can make it,” he said. ICC’s bigfoot punter nent’s 20. a Ray Guy punting camp and exit- “Things only get better as you “It’s hard to get anything going ed with the No. 1 rating. Not bad move up ... the blocking’s better, when you start like that,” Hutchins for a guy who never dreamed of the snaps are faster. C. TODD SHERMAN said, then smiled. playing football. “You’re punting, I think, would Hutchins’ willingness to sacrifice “I was a baseball player,” he said. only get better.” NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 17H COMMUNITY COLLEGES: New coach takes over in Booneville scouting report Lean, mean QB battle BREAKDOWN I I More than 50 pounds lighter on Whoever lands the QB spot in the L ast season’s starting quarterback Emanuel Francis is being pushed in his feet, sophomore Kissinger battles spread attack will have two steady tar- gets – 6-foot-4 Jamal Hamilton and 5- preseason by sophomore surprise Aaron last year’s incumbent signal-caller. 10 speedster Andre Taylor. Kissinger of Tishomingo County. Up front, Smither – the Tigers’ of- I The key for the defense will be the BY GENE PHELPS fensive line coach last fall – has versa- play of sophomore Emmanuel Dudley Daily Journal tile tackles Darryl Petty and Heath and the front four. When Aaron Kissinger returned Blount back. I The kicking game’s in good hands DESTE LEE home to Tishomingo County this In the backfield, newcomers Ter- with incoming freshmen Tyler Turner Emanual Francis , last season’s starting quarterback, summer he resembled an offensive rence Jackson, Jeremy Cannon and and Blake Threlkeld battling for kicking faced a battle for playing time in fall camp. lineman more than a quarterback. Marcus Sanders are in the mix. “We’re and punting duties. The 6-foot-3 sophomore quarter- excited about Jackson,” Smither said. back for Northeast topped the scales “He’s a burner and makes good cuts.” NORTHEAST CC at a whopping 270 pounds. Defensive lineman Emmanuel “I could tell I wasn’t in shape or Dudley, 6-2, 285, played seven games physically fit to play,” Kissinger said. last season and recorded 17 tackles tigers fast facts Earlier this month, Kissinger re- despite battling an ankle injury. ported to training camp at a slender A preseason All-American, Dudley I Region: MACJC North 218 pounds. will likely play both tackle and end. I 2007 record: 2-7 “Being overweight didn’t hinder my “We’re expecting Dudley and the I Coach: Rick Smither (1st year) throwing ability, but it affected my front four to be a lot better,” said de- I Returning starters: 3 offense, 4 defense mobility,” he said. “Losing the weight fensive coordinator Brad Boyette. has made me feel better, more confi- “We’ve got eight or nine guys in the TIGERS SCHEDULE dent. mix for four spots. Aug. 28 at Hinds 3 players to watch “I’m able to do what I’ve got to do “For us to be better, we’ve got to be Sept. 4 Pearl River out there.” better up front.” Sept. 11 at Itawamba* QB Aaron Kissinger, So. For Kissinger, that’s competing for Cordell Boclair and Adam Funk, a Sept. 18 Miss. Delta* I Lost 50 pounds over summer and pressing to start. the starting job against returning Tupelo freshman, are battling for time Sept. 25 at Holmes* starter Emanuel Francis. Early in fall at outside linebacker. Trent Jones is Oct. 2 East Central (HC) DL Emmanuel Dudley, So. camp, Kissinger had the edge. also in the hunt for a starting job. Oct. 9 East Mississippi* I Preseason All-American leader up front. “He’s a lot more athletic and moves In the secondary, a pair of freshmen Oct. 18 at Coahoma* a lot better,” first-year Northeast head have impressed the staff – corner Oct. 23 Northwest* coach Ricky Smither noted. “He’s Dariaus Caruthers of Lafayette Coun- *–North Division games WR Andre Taylor, Fr. competing with Emanuel and it’s nip ty and safety Jimmy Young of Moore- I Redshirt gives Tigers a big-play threat. and tuck.” ville. Smither’s favorite four-letter words: ‘Hard work’ BY GENE PHELPS Returning defensive lineman Emmanuel Dud- Daily Journal ley said the players are excited about Smither’s Ricky Smither’s learned a lot during his 13 up-tempo approach to practice. years as an assistant football coach on the col- “I think it’s going to help us out a lot when the lege level. season gets here,” he said of the team’s get-after- “I learned that it takes hard work,” said North- it work ethic. “I think we’ve got some new guys east’s first-year head coach. “You have to take a coming in here who know what it takes.” hard-nosed approach to things. That’s what we Smither’s other goals are to field a competitive want to do here.” team. The Tigers are coming off back-to-back One of the first things Smither wanted his three-win and two-win seasons. players to learn this fall was that “intensity” at all Three seasons ago, Greening’s team won the times would be required. MACJC North Division for the third time in four “If you practice hard, you play hard,” said the years. So Smither knows the potential is there to Tigers’ former offensive line coach, who re- return the program to the top of the leaderboard. placed 10-year coach Andy Greening. “We’re “Andy did a good job and I learned a lot from practicing a little harder this season. I want the him, but I wanted to simplify things,” he said. “I kids flying around, getting geared to running think we tried to do too many things. I want to let around. the kids play.” “There’s a narrow line between winning and Despite being hired for the head post in July, losing. I think we’re learning what it takes to Smither is excited to finally get an opportunity to win.” run his own show. The early days of August drills saw the Tigers “How good will we be? I don’t know,” he said. “I working at 2 p.m., in the heat of the day. want to get out there and recruit my kids. I like “That gets the kids to buy into the hard-nosed the hard-nosed kids. You don’t have to be real tal- deal,” Smither said. “If you do more than the next ented. We want to get quality kids and build MICHAEL MILLER/NEMCC team, it give us an edge. toughness.” Ricky Smither, a former offensive line coach, succeeded Andy Greening. PAGE 18H I SUNDAY, AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL NORTHWEST CC Ready to open it up scouting report BREAKDOWN Chris I I Former South Panola head coach run his offense. Rangers looking to a pair of fresh- Strong men – Joel Rich and Casey Wesson – to (53), seen prepares to launch an air assault in “Both of their high schools passed the ball,” Woods said. start at quarterback. They’ll have former pressuring his first community college season. Travis Sanford, a sophomore wide South Panola receiver Travis Sanford, Georgia’s receiver who played for Woods at who sat out last fall, returning. Matthew BY GENE PHELPS South Panola in 2005, returns for his I Former Ole Miss linebacker Chris Daily Journal Stafford, final season. He sat out last year after Strong could be an impact player on had SEC Ricky Woods’ successful South catching 17 passes for 311 yards and defense at the end spot. Panola High School teams lined up I big-game four TDs in 2006. Coach Ricky Woods won four state and won games running the football. titles coaching at South Panola. experience This season, Woods will make his last year at Strong at defensive end junior college coaching debut at Ricky Woods, Ole Miss. Northwest with a different strategy ... On defense, Woods welcomes back who made his FILE one that involves chunking the ball. another familiar face – defensive end “It’s harder to run in this league,” Chris Strong. The former Ole Miss reputation at said Woods, who has an impressive linebacker has been moved to end to South Panola, rangers fast facts 213-43 record as a prep coach. “The better use his 6-foot-3, 270-pound now tackles a I Region: MACJC North offense is going to have to throw a lot frame. new challenge I 2007 record: 6-4 (second in division, lost to Gulf more.” “End fits him better,” Woods said. “It’s been a good thing for him. I know as a junior Coast in first round of state playoffs) In order to “throw it around” better, college coach. I Coach: Ricky Woods (1st season) Woods has hired former Millsaps as- he’s happy.” I Returning starters: 3 offense, 4 defense sistant Jack Wright to run the show. Desman Ivy, a sophomore free safe- Throwing the ball is nothing new for ty, returns after recording 51 tackles RANGERS SCHEDULE Woods, he notes. His Bainbridge, Ga., and intercepting two passes last fall. Aug. 28 Miss. Gulf Coast 3 players to watch high school team featured the pass Woods, who will coach the defen- Sept. 4 at Hinds last season. sive front, added former South Panola, Sept. 11 at Pearl River DE Chris Strong, So. “We probably threw it 50 percent of Starkville, Nettleton and Saltillo coach Sept. 18 Itawamba* I Lost 50 pounds over summer and pressing to start. the time,” he said. “We ran the gun. It Willis Wright to his staff. Sept. 25 at East Mississippi* would have been crazy not to throw The veteran coach will tutor the out- Oct. 2 Mississippi Delta* with the receivers we had.” side linebackers. Oct. 9 at Coahoma* FS Desman Ivy, So. Woods will tab one of two freshmen “I worried him to death until until Oct. 16 Holmes* (HC) I Recorded 51 tackles, 2 int. last year. quarterbacks – Joel Rich of Southaven he joined us,” Woods said, then Oct. 23 at Northeast* or Casey Wesson of Prattville, Ala. – to laughed. *–North Division games WR Travis Sanford, So. I Caught 17 for 311 yards and 4 TDs in 2006.

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have made an executive decided to no longer use the lose, but I like Lafayette County. That decision. For the sake of word region, because it’s an offense will be something else. I clarity and consistency, I ambiguous term and not one 4-4A: West Point will edge Noxubee have decided to give the I’m accustomed to using in County. Maybe. Anyone have a coin? I such a context. Division, dis- I 1-3A: Keep that coin handy, but I word “region” the Dante treat- ment. I banish it to the far- trict, conference, league – think Corinth will squeak past thest reaches of the Northeast those are terms best suited Booneville and Ripley. I Mississippi region, the bound- for the job. 2-3A: Louisville, duh. But Ab- aries of which can be as fuzzy (Note: District is the word erdeen, our No. 1 small school, will be On the following pages … used in Mississippi to identify more of a challenge than people think. I as the word’s meaning. I You will find more information than you As in, “Who will win Region the eight areas of the state in 3-3A: We have only Holly Springs in can shake a playbook at, to paraphrase my this division. I don’t know who will win 1-4A this season?” Nobody, Brad which schools are placed, this one, but it won’t be the Hawks. dad. Here’s a teaser: because it is now officially – kind of like voting districts – LOCKE I 1-2A: Baldwyn rarely has trouble in this paper, at least – Divi- e.g., Tupelo is in District 1, Preseason Rankings Starkville in District 4, etc.) winning this league, and I doubt any- sion 1-4A. And Division 1-3A, one besides Walnut will so much as I Just move your eyes down this page to see and Division 1-2A, etc. So there you go. Division. Get used to who I expect to be the best in NeMiss. it. touch the Bearcats. This seems a small, even piddling, I 2-2A: Bruce or Eupora? Eupora or distinction to many of you. My fellow Bruce? Bruce, because it has Richard Team-by-Team Previews sticklers, however, will understand Bold predictions Freelon, and Eupora doesn’t. I Oh yeah, we hit all 45 teams in the Daily where I’m coming from. Speaking of divisions, I’m going to I 1-1A: East Webster didn’t lose last Journal coverage area. Look for your favorite. You see, the MHSAA has for years spark some spirited debate by predict- year until the North final. This year, I Starting on Page 20H. used both division and region to de- ing champions of each in the NeMiss don’t think they’ll lose at all. Which scribe the subdividing of its classificia- area (or, if you prefer, the region). brings me to … I Fledgling Football Teams tions. And there has been little rhyme 1-5A: South Panola. Tupelo and State championship predictions! I Four area schools are starting up football or reason to it. I once received an expla- Olive Branch will be stout challengers, Quickly: South Panola (5A), Itawamba programs, and one county is trying to pool its nation from an MHSAA official that in but until somebody beats them Tigers AHS (4A), Louisville (3A), Bruce (2A), resources to form a co-op team. Page 49H. football, only the 5A teams are in re- … East Webster (1A). I 1-4A: Itawamba AHS will rule with gions, while everyone else is in a divi- North rules. Also … sion. an iron fist and repeat despite Shan- I Look for last season’s stat leaders, this Then you look at other sports, and non’s best efforts. Brad Locke ([email protected]) is the Daily everything’s called a division. So I have I 2-4A: This is usually Clarksdale’s to Journal assistant sports editor. year’s weekly schedule, and Players to Watch.

Mississippi’s Hottest

C. TODD SHERMAN High School They’re No. 1: Tupelo tops the Daily Journal’s preseason rankings. Ri v alries... DJ PRESEASON RANKINGS: Large Schools Small Schools Getyour Team ’07 Rcd Pvs Team ’07 Rcd Pvs 1.Tupelo 9-4 3 1.Aberdeen 9-4 NR copytoda y! I Golden Wave oozing super skill I The surprise of 2007 is back for players, but is this the year they final- more, and the Bulldogs have enough ly knock off South Panola? bite to put a scare into Louisville. Send c hec kfor $34.95 to: 2. Itawamba AHS 11-2 2 2. Corinth 9-5 4 I Reigning Daily Journal Defensive I Last year’s North finalist lost stud THS Football Boosters Player of the Year William Shumpert LB Markell Lee to West Point, but an P .O . Bo x3054 out to prove Indians’ revival is real. explosive offense returns. 3. Lafayette Co. 8-3 NR 3. Ripley 12-1 1 Tupelo,MS38803 I As QB Montez Phillips’ stock has I “If they can surprise us again,” risen, so have the hopes of the Com- coach Mac McCurry said, “it’ll be a modores. surprise.” Prepare to be surprised. Make sure toinc lude 4.West Point 11-2 1 4. Bruce 9-3 3 I Much was lost from last season, I Daily Journal Offensive Player of y our name,addr ess, but the talent well never runs dry in the Year Richard Freelon will have and phone number . West Point. more help in the backfield. 5. Shannon 10-2 4 5. East Webster 12-1 2 I Second-year coach Chad Cook has I Several Wolverine seniors played the trust of his players, but what major roles in trips to the 2006 state Pr oceeds of sales go to the THS Football Boosters. about that offensive line? final and last year’s North half. PAGE 20H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Wave’s fearsome threesome I Bumphis, Bean and Heard form “They’ve got double barrels on Carter calls the shifty Bumphis his both sides of the field,” Lee said. “playmaker” on the field. “He’s a high- receiving trio that’s tough to stop. “They’re as good a group as I’ve seen, light waiting to happen,” the coach and I’ve had some good ones.” said. BY GENE PHELPS Garrett, who passed for 1,739 yards He added: “Bean’s a natural receiv- Daily Journal and 18 TDs last season, feels er when it comes to catching the ball Starkville coach Bill Lee says he’s “blessed” to have such a talented and running routes. Heard has great given up on trying to figure out a way group to work with. hands and is tough going across the to defense Tupelo’s talented wide re- “They do a lot for me,” he said. middle.” ceiver trio of Chad Bumphis, Justin “They’re the reason I’m going to LSU.” All three cover the 40 in 4.6 seconds Bean and Garrian Heard. The best solution, he says, is to sack Bumphis, a 5-foot-10, 185-pound or less. the Golden Wave’s quarterback, LSU- senior, led the trio last season with 37 “I’m not being cocky, but if Chris bound Chris Garrett. catches for 787 yards and 12 TDs. The has time to throw, I don’t think any- “If he gets time, he’ll kill you ... he talented wideout, who also plays body’s got three defensive backs good proved that last year,” said Lee, whose quarterback, tailback and returns enough to defend us,” Bumphis said. Yellowjackets host Tupelo in Division kicks, is being recruited nationally. In the Golden Wave’s spring game 1-5A action Oct. 3. Topping his list are Alabama, Florida, against Itawamba AHS, the Indians Garrett completed 13-of-19 passes LSU, Michigan and Mississippi State. attempted bracket coverage – front for 245 yards and four touchdowns in Bean, a 6-3, 180-pound senior, and back – on Bumphis. last season’s 38-35 win in Tupelo, in- caught 24 passes for 356 yards and “That left me 1-on-1 with some- cluding the go-ahead TD, a 10-yarder four TDs. He recently committed to body,” Bean said. “When I started C. TODD SHERMAN on fourth-and-goal to Bumphis with Kentucky. doing well, they started bracketing 1 minute, 12 seconds remaining. Heard, a 6-3, 180-pound senior, me. Then Garrian started getting Garrian Heard, The TD was the third for Bumphis, caught 19 balls for 400 yards and two open.” clockwise from who also scored on 67-yard and 45- scores. Wave wide receivers coach Added Bumphis, “You’ve got to pick top, Justin Bean yard receptions in the first quarter Darryl Carter says Heard has the best your boy.You double team one, you’ve and Chad Bumphis against Starkville. hands of the three. got two others to contend with.” He finished with six catches for 170 “The Good Lord has blessed me So, how would Bumphis defense form a top-notch yards. with the three I have,” Carter said. Tupelo’s receivers? receiving corps for Bean caught five for 56 yards and “They have all the skills and natural “I would go to a prevent,” he said, Tupelo this year. one TD, an 18-yard grab on a fade. talent.” then smiled. scouting report NO. 1: TUPELO BREAKDOWN The big picture I Tupelo’s high-powered passing game will be counted on even more now that I Golden Wave can’t get caught up in “I fully expect this RB Ken Davis has exited. … The Golden South Panola game; more is at stake. to be Garrett’s best Wave defense has the potential to be im- year,” Tupelo coach Eric Collins said. “He’s proved with the return of DB James BY GENE PHELPS had a great offseason. McAuley, SS John Price and T Deauntay Daily Journal He’s really focused on Payne, who will also be an offensive line- Fans may be circling Oct. 17 on their what he’s got to do.” man. … UTL Chad Bumphis returned four calendars – the date Tupelo plays at Garrett’s receiving punts for TDs last year. South Panola – but Golden Wave quar- corps is loaded with terback Chris Garrett wants 2008 to be the return of Chad 5-year glance, wins more than a one-game season. DL/OL Deauntay Payne “The mistake we made last year was Bumphis,Justin Bean that we made too much of that game,” and Garrian Heard. C. TODD SHERMAN said Garrett, who has thrown for 3,344 The Wave will miss talented tailback 9 yards and 28 touchdowns in mostly Ken Davis, but the trio of Bumphis, Parker Ball and safety John Price will golden wave fast facts 6 6 6 two seasons. “Our focus is to win a 4 state championship.” fill the role. I Division: 1-5A Top-ranked Tupelo’s success starts Up front, 315-pound Deauntay I 2007 record: 9-4, reached second round of playoffs with the 6-foot-4, 220-pound Garrett, Payne returns after a full season on I Coach: Eric Collins (5th year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 who will take his passing skills to LSU defense. He’ll be joined by twins Mar- I Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense after Christmas. cus and Chris Bell. SCHEDULE A two-year starter, who saw limited Aug. 29 Covington, Tenn. action as a freshman, Garrett needs McAuley leads defense 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Grenada 202 passing yards to become the James McAuley, a Daily Journal All- Sept. 12 at Amory Wave’s career leader. Todd Jordan Area cornerback, returns to head up WR/RB Chad Bumphis, Sr. Sept. 19 Madison Central (1987-88) holds the school record with the defense.He’s joined by Ralph Ivory I He’ll also play QB and punt this season. Sept. 26 Columbus* 3,545 yards. in the secondary. Oct. 3 at Starkville* Garrett’s also close to Jordan’s record Oct. 10 at Southaven* Payne is also slated for line duty of 257 career completions and Kirk QB Chris Garrett, Sr. Oct. 17 South Panola* along with Deandre O’Neal. I Needs 202 yards to become school’s career leader. Oct. 24 at DeSoto Central Presley’s (1998-99) 34 career touch- “If we can get where we love playing Oct. 31 Horn Lake* down passes.He has completed 195 this game,” defensive coordinator Nov. 7 at Olive Branch* passes and is six TDs short of Presley’s Lamar Aldridge said, “we can be pret- DB James McAuley, Sr. *–Division 1-5A game mark. ty good.” I Led team with 5 INTs last year. NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 21H NO. 2: ITAWAMBA AHS scouting report Indians aim high again BREAKDOWN I I DL William Shumpert has added 17 Teams would be wise to no longer Also looking to gain more notice is pounds, up to 242. … Shumpert also a overlook fast-rising Indians in 4A. McGaughy, who rushed for 1,727 major factor at FB with his pass-catching yards and 22 touchdowns. and blocking skills. … Rudy Cox (5-10, BY BRAD LOCKE Mitchell favorably compared the 5- 195) moved from LB to SS. … CB Kevin Daily Journal foot-10, 188-pounder to other talent- Marks brings experience to secondary, ed tailbacks he’s coached – Vashon Itawamba AHS should be one of the will also be a go-to WR. … Junior TE Dil- top Class 4A teams in the state, and Pearson (Ripley), Jeremy Longstreet lon Mitchell (6-4, 200) is coach Jamie junior Deshaun McGaughy should be (Olive Branch) and Eldra Buckley Mitchell’s son. one of the top running backs in the (Charleston, now with the San Diego Chargers). CB Kevin Marks state. 5-year glance, wins Chances are, McGaughy and his No. “He’s got a little bit of what all those THOMAS WELLS 2-ranked Indians will both shine this guys have got,” Mitchell said. year. But some folks are having trouble 11 seeing the brightness of the team’s im- Shumpert back for more indians fast facts mediate future because of the long Opening holes, and getting some I 6 Division: 1-4A shadow cast by its past. totes himself, will be senior William 4 4 I 2007 record: 11-2, reached third round of playoffs Prior to last season, IAHS had won Shumpert, the 2007 Daily Journal De- 3 I Coach: Jamie Mitchell (3rd year) two playoff games since that system fensive Player of the Year. Even more I Returning starters: 9 offense, 7 defense was instituted in 1981. From 2003-06, important, Itawamba returns four of ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 the Indians had a record of 17-24. its offensive linemen. The front, an- But last season, Jamie Mitchell’s sec- chored by senior center Sam Marshall, SCHEDULE 3 players to watch ond as head coach, they were 11-2 and averages nearly 270 pounds. Aug. 29 Amory won two playoff games. With 16 “They’re what makes us go,” Sept. 5 at Senatobia SS Rudy Cox, Sr. starters back, expectations are sky- Mitchell said. Sept. 12 Houston I Made team-high 89 tackles as LB. high in Fulton. So does Shumpert on defense, who Sept. 19 Saltillo* “I think we’re one of those teams despite his prowess on that side is Sept. 26 at New Albany* RB Deshaun McGaughy, Jr. that’s really flying under the radar,” being recruited as a fullback. Line- Oct. 3 Center Hill* I Rushed for 1,727 yards, 22 TDs on 200 carries. Mitchell said. “You hear people talk backer Dan Huddleston and free safe- Oct. 10 at Heidelberg about West Point and Noxubee (Coun- ty Asian Ruff could also be considered Oct. 17 at Tishomingo Co.* ty) and Shannon, and very seldom do under-the-radar types, but they’re Oct. 24 Shannon* DL/FB William Shumpert, Sr. you hear Itawamba mentioned in the playmakers and expect to win. Oct. 31 at Pontotoc* I Made 84 tackles, 13 sacks, 4 recoveries. top four or five in the north.” They fit right in. *–Division 1-4A game scouting report NO. 3: LAFAYETTE CO. BREAKDOWN Phillips can fill it up I A corps of WRs – made deeper by the I addition of Devon Wilson – creates more Receiver-turned-quarterback leads mental grasp of football. He’s just a offensive options as well as taking pres- ’Dores toward high expectations. good football player and has the po- sure off the run. … Lafayette will be tential to be as good as he wants to be.” tough up the middle on defense, with BY JAY TIDWELL Phillips is part of a skills-player en- Trey and Jermaine Pegues stuffing the Special to the Journal run inside. … On special teams, junior semble that will keep the No. 3-ranked Perhaps the best call last season by Commodores in contention in Divi- Clay Russell will need to settle in as Lafayette County coach Anthony Hart punter and kicker. sion 2-4A. was moving Montez Phillips from pass Seniors D.J. McChristian and De- catcher to passer. mario Brown will trade time at run- QB Montez Phillips 5-year glance, wins Phillips (6-foot-2, 200 pounds) ning back. Devon Wilson, who trans- turned heads in 2007 as an agile quar- ferred from Oxford after last season, terback with the ability to run (834 DESTE LEE 12 and fellow senior Jeremy McThume 10 yards, 7 TDs) and pass (958 yards, 9 will work at receiver along with junior TDs). The transition to signal-caller 8 8 Cedric Dukes. commodores fast facts 7 came with little difficulty. The offensive line will have return- “It wasn’t that big of an adjustment,” I Division: 2-4A ing starters Devin Slate and Javia I Phillips, a senior, explained. “I played Carothers – both seniors – as well as 2007 record: 8-3, reached first round of playoffs it all through middle school and just I Coach: Anthony Hart (4th year) senior , who transferred I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 got moved my sophomore year to re- from West Point. Only one lineman Returning starters: 6 offense, 5 defense ceiver.So it was pretty easy, just learn- weighs in at less than 6-feet, 260 SCHEDULE ing to read different coverages. pounds. Aug. 29 Madison Central “I like throwing it better, but I really On defense, linebacker Trey Pegues 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Shannon just like having the ball with me all the (5-10, 190) is the leading returning Sept. 12 North Panola time.” tackler (96), while the line will be an- RB D.J. McChristian, Sr. Sept. 19 at Oxford* While Hart contemplates passing chored by his second cousin, nose I Had 65 carries for 270 yards, 20 catches for 335 yards. Sept. 26 Greenwood* more frequently, he has confidence in guard Jermaine Pegues (5-11, 305), Oct. 3 at Hernando* Phillips’ ability to tuck it and run. who had six sacks last season. LB Wesley Moore, Sr. Oct. 10 Clarksdale* “He’s got the things you can’t really “We really don’t want to give up any I Aggressive at strong-side LB, can play to sidelines. Oct. 17 Memphis Oakhaven teach,” Hart said. “He’s got good big plays,” said Trey Pegues, a senior, Oct. 24 at Cleveland* speed, and he’s got an awareness out “and we want our offense to stay on Oct. 31 Gentry* there on the field. Montez has really the field with the ball as much as pos- WR Devon Wilson, Sr. *–Division 2-4A game improved his work habits and his sible.” I Had 23 catches for 449 yards, 4 TDs for Oxford in 2007. PAGE 22H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL NO. 4: WEST POINT scouting report Wave will be just fine BREAKDOWN I West Point lost a lot, but that the 6-foot-1, 190-pound Carr is ex- I West Point has averaged more than pected to slide under center and re- 12 wins last three seasons. … Must re- hasn’t dampered high hopes. ceive as many touches as possible. place entire offensive line. … DT Charlie Carr replaces former West Point quar- Davidson sports 4.0 GPA, getting atten- BY PAUL JONES terback Cortney Scott, who totaled tion from Ivy League. … Senior WR Curtis Special to the Journal more than 2,200 yards passing and Hall in first year of football, had three TD Numbers and statistics can some- rushing last season. catches in spring game versus Pearl. … times be deceiving and not tell the Also back in the Green Wave back- Wave captured division crown for third whole story. straight season. West Point head coach Chris Cham- field is senior Darren Ewing, who rushed for more than 700 yards last Coach Chris Chambless bless believes that’s the case with the 2008 Green Wave edition. fall. 5-year glance, wins Chambless must replace the entire C. TODD SHERMAN On paper, No. 4-ranked West Point 14 returns only six starters from last offensive line. 12 “We plan on running the football like 11 year’s 11-2 squad that swept through 9 green wave fast facts Division 4-4A unscathed. we normally do,” he said. “We lost all of 8 As usual, though, the cupboard is our offensive linemen, so we have to I Division: 4-4A find some new guys to fill those voids. A I 2007 record: 11-2, reached third round of playoffs not bare at West Point. “We are young in spots, and we are couple of our linemen have seen spot I Head coach: Chris Chambless (3rd year) duty and played in some mop-up duty. I asking a lot of guys to fill some big ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 2 offense, 4 defense shoes,” said Chambless. “Through But none of them have played signifi- work ethic this summer some guys cant snaps and not in those true battles will be able to earn some spots. But as in the region and playoffs.” SCHEDULE 3 players to watch far as having a lot of guys that are bat- Carr is just as dangerous defensive- Aug. 29 Shannon tle-tested, we don’t have it going into ly, picking off seven passes as a sopho- Sept. 5 at Columbus QB/DB Michael Carr,Jr. the season. We have some guys that more. Junior Jeremy Cannon is also Sept. 12 Starkville I First-year starter at QB; made 7 INTs last season. have played a lot of football, but just back in the secondary, while senior Sept. 19 at New Hope* not in starting roles." Gabe Ruppert headlines the line- Sept. 26 Gentry RB/WB Darren Ewing,Sr. Chambless and his staff welcome backer corps. Oct. 3 Noxubee Co.* I Rushed for 779 yards, 5 TDs. back just two starters on offense but Senior Charlie Davidson anchors Oct. 10 at Kosciusko* one special player in junior Michael the West Point defensive line. Oct. 17 West Lauderdale* Carr. A year ago, Carr excelled at run- “West Point,” Chambless said, “al- Oct. 24 at Neshoba Central* LB Gabe Ruppert, Sr. ning back, receiver and defensive back. ways expects big things from its de- Oct. 31 Caledonia* I Ranked second on team with 130 tackles. Averaging 38 yards a catch in 2007, fense.” *–Division 4-4A game scouting report NO. 5: SHANNON BREAKDOWN Rollin’ with Rivers I Shannon lost four of its offensive line- I men; it will be smaller, but more athletic, Middle linebacker needs strong Getting thrown into his role last sea- up front. … With shifty Alex Thornton at encore performance as new faces son has prepared him for the extra QB, Shannon will run more than last sea- load. son. … WR Rashad Williams, who trans- find their way on offensive side. “Since I’m at middle linebacker, ferred from Mooreville last year, is now that’s the heart of the defense, so I eligible. … With Arceto Clark gone BY BRAD LOCKE keep a good rhythm,” Rivers said. (MSU), senior CB Marquez Floyd will Daily Journal mark opponents’ top receiver. When Chad Cook took the reins at Big holes up front Shannon last year, he was looking for Cook hopes to find rhythm on his one good man to stick in the middle of offense, which is breaking in a sort-of- Coach Chad Cook 5-year glance, wins his defense. Someone who could han- new quarterback, Alex Thornton. He dle whatever came his way while at has experience, having stepped in at DESTE LEE the same time keeping the unit mov- times the past two years when 10 10 ing as a single entity. 9 Michael Ledbetter was injured. “I decided to find whichever one I 7 7 His top target will be senior William red raiders fast facts thought was one of the toughest kids Green, who had 1,108 receiving yards I Division: 1-4A on the team,” Cook said, “because last season. Hard-nosed tailback Keon I 2007 record: 10-2, reached second round of playoffs your middle linebacker’s got to be a McGaughy also returns, but he’ll line I Coach: Chad Cook (2nd year) soldier on defense.” ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 4 offense, 9 defense He found Luzon Rivers. up behind a front five that lost four He’s only 5-foot-10, 210 pounds – an starters. SCHEDULE inch taller and 10 pounds heavier “They’ve all gotten stronger and Aug. 29 at West Point than last season – but the senior gave bigger, and I think they’re ready,” 3 players to watch Sept. 5 Lafayette Co. Cook exactly what he wanted. Rivers Cook said. Sept. 12 Jackson,Tenn., Central recorded 114 tackles, 12 of them for “I think we’re still capable of moving WR William Green, Sr. Sept. 19 Amory loss, and four sacks to earn Daily Jour- the ball pretty good,” said senior Zac I Big-play threat had 1,108 yards, 16 TDs. Sept. 26 at Pontotoc* nal All-Area first-team honors. Scott, that lone returnee on the line. Oct. 3 Saltillo* His task gets harder this season. No. “We’ve got people back that can take MLB Luzon Rivers, Sr. Oct. 10 at New Albany* 5 Shannon returns nine starters on the positions of the people that left I Good run-stopper made 114 tackles, 12 TFL. Oct. 17 Center Hill* defense but only four on offense. The and do pretty good. Oct. 24 at Itawamba AHS* defense is “going to have to carry us “Every time we come to work out, Oct. 31 Tishomingo Co.* early,” Cook said. it’s a hundred percent,” he added. OL Zac Scott, Sr. *–Division 1-4A game Rivers has come to understand this. “Everybody’s on the same page.” I Lone returning starter up front, allowed just one sack. NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 23H Hinton: Something to prove I Despite breakout season,Aberdeen but he teared up when Duncan broke the offense quickly. the news. “From the first game he threw the QB still trying to raise his profile. “You remember those coaches we’re ball well,” Duncan said. going to play next year that didn’t vote Receiver Tevin Blanchard likens Hin- BY BRAD LOCKE for you,” Duncan told Hinton. ton to a point guard: “He controls all Daily Journal Moore and Peoples are back this fall, apsects of the game on offense.” Aberdeen quarterback Marcus Hin- meaning it could be hard for Hinton to As stunning as Aberdeen’s swift turn- ton is not Clayton Moore, the gain proper recognition. Although the around – a 9-4 record and a trip to the Louisville quarterback who has com- fact he’s even part of this conversation third round of the playoffs – was Hin- mitted to Mississippi State. is pretty amazing. ton’s rapid development. He’s gotten Nor is he Harry Peoples, Winona’s even better in the offseason, as well as quarterback and defensive back who Rapid rise bigger – he’s 5-foot-11, 205 pounds, will also likely go Division I. and he benches 300 and squats 500. Nor Jami Boland, the Nettleton As a sophomore, Hinton’s job was simple: hand it off. Under Jack Hank- More impressive has been his grasp quarterback now at Millsaps. of the position. He gets weekly one-on- ins, who lasted one season at Aberdeen Moore and Peoples are both listed one “chalk talk” instruction from assis- among the top Mississippi recruits on – an 0-10 season – Hinton said he tant coach Kris Pickle. scout.com. You won’t find Hinton’s passed the ball four or five times a At first, Hinton didn’t have a clue name on that list. game. what a Cover 3 or Deep Cover looked His coach, Chris Duncan, nominat- Duncan was watching. The second- like. Now, Pickle lets Hinton do the ed Hinton for the All-Division 2-3A year coach, who was only a teacher at teaching during their sessions. team – for player of the year, offensive Aberdeen in 2006, thought Hinton’s sit- “He’s really a student of the game,” player of the year, Super 24 quarter- uation was emblematic of what Pickle said. “He picked it up really fast back. As a junior, he’d passed for 2,613 doomed the Bulldogs that year. because he had the work ethic to learn yards and 24 touchdowns while rush- “They had (players) in the wrong it on his own.” ing for 903 yards and 15 scores. spots,” he said. That work ethic will be augmented Moore was offensive player of the Duncan arrived with an expectation by Hinton’s desire to prove wrong the C. TODD SHERMAN year. Peoples was Super 24 as an ath- of winning and the spread offense to coaches of Division 2-3A, to make his Even though Marcus Hinton racked up more than lete, Boland as quarterback. get it done.Hinton was apprehensive own name. He’s taken hold of the men- Hinton made the first team – as a at first – because, “I ain’t never done no tality Duncan preaches daily: “Every 3,000 total yards last year, he was overlooked by punter. stuff like that before” – but he and his day you get out of bed in the morning, other coaches within his division at awards time. He’s a mighty fine punter, mind you, fleet of fleet-footed receivers took to you’ve got to prove yourself.” scouting report Mission: Impossible II NO. 1: ABERDEEN BREAKDOWN I Offensive line is smallish, which is fine I in Aberdeen’s balanced spread attack. … Bulldogs not satisfied with just could never quite find a comfort zone; C Berry Fort weighs only 195, but he’s turning it around; Louisville in sights. it yielded 40 or more points three good at reading defenses. … Sophomore times. Duncan said the issues that plagued RB/LB Andre Jernigan will be a bruising BY BRAD LOCKE the unit last year have been ad- complement to starting TB Jamerson Daily Journal dressed. Love’s slashing style. … WR/CB Tevin Last season, Aberdeen’s expecta- “The biggest thing, we were weak,” Blanchard is younger brother of former tions of winning seemed a pipe he said. “I think overall we didn’t tack- Ole Miss player Travis Blanchard. dream. The Bulldogs were coming off le well. We weren’t real physical.” two miserable seasons – a 1-19 com- 5-year glance, wins bined record – and had just experi- Coach Chris Duncan enced their second coaching change New defense Duncan has switched from a split in as many years. C. TODD SHERMAN scheme to a stack – a 3-3 – to utilize Well, Chris Duncan led Aberdeen to 9 9 his team speed. It’s what South Panola a 9-4 mark and a trip to the third runs, and it’s catching on; during the bulldogs fast facts round of the Class 3A playoffs. That 5 third week of preseason drills, Dun- I Division: 2-3A exceeded even his own lofty hopes. can had to reign in the defense to keep So who’s to say the top-ranked Bull- I 2007 record: 9-4, reached third round of playoffs 1 offensive players from getting hurt. I Coach: Chris Duncan (2nd year) 0 dogs can’t do the impossible again? “They’re getting after it pretty ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense If anyone can challenge defending good,” Duncan said. state champ Louisville in Division 2- The Bulldogs have a freshman de- SCHEDULE 3A, it’s Aberdeen. It returns 14 starters, fensive end, Channing Ward, who’s 6- Aug. 29 Rosa Fort and the players have put their forget- foot-3, 212 pounds and runs a 4.7 in 3 players to watch Sept. 5 Pontotoc table past well behind them. the 40; a new linebacker who moved Sept. 12 at Hamilton “Last year, we had something to in from South Carolina, senior Antho- WR/CB Tevin Blanchard, Sr. Sept. 19 Winona* prove,” senior center Berry Fort said. ny Dixon; and both cornerbacks re- I Second in area with 1,025 yards. Sept. 26 at Nettleton* “Now we’re raising the standard.” turning, junior Rashad Bates and sen- Oct. 3 at Houston* Meeting that standard will require a ior Tevin Blanchard. QB Marcus Hinton, Sr. Oct. 10 South Pontotoc* raise in performance, of course, par- They all believe reaching state is I Had 2,613 yards, 24 TDs passing, 903, 15 rushing. Oct. 17 at Louisville* ticularly on the defensive side. possible. Oct. 24 at West Oktibbeha Most of the weapons return to the “That is 99 percent of the battle,” Oct. 31 Amory* offense, which averaged 32.7 points Duncan said, “believing you can do RB Jamerson Love, Jr. *–Division 2-3A game per game. The defense, however, it.” I Rushed for 1,109 yards, 15 TDs in 10 games. PAGE 24H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL NO. 2: CORINTH scouting report North finalists reload BREAKDOWN I WRs Diantee Curlee, Cadman I QB Payne improving, will help three starting wide receivers back. Williams had 810 combined yards last Warriors build on 2007 success. “There’s nothing like experience – year. … Defense switching from 5-3 to 4- that’s what I told him at the end of the 3 to capitalize on quickness. … QB Zer- BY BRAD LOCKE season,” Mitchell said. “He’s worked in rick Payne has improved timing, touch. Daily Journal the offseason real hard. He’s gotten a … NG Isaiah Warren (6-0, 270) lone re- lot stronger, a little faster. He’s our key Jimmy Mitchell was recently asked turning starter on defensive line. … K to count up how many returning leader.” Jordan Parker made 4 of 9 field goals starters he had on offense this season, Also key will be the return of Craw- as freshman. and he sounded a bit surprised when ford, a 5-foot-9, 198-pound senior who has not had a recurrence of the WR Cadman Williams the total was nine. 5-year glance, wins “Dang, we oughta be good then, back spasms that sidelined him last FILE PHOTO shouldn’t we?” he said with a laugh. year. He rushed for 460 yards in the four games. 11 Yes, the Warriors should be very 10 good. They’re coming off a 9-5 season For all Corinth has going for it, it’s 9 warriors fast facts seen one major setback this offseason that saw them reach the North final, 6 I Division: 1-3A where they ran into eventual state – linebacker Markell Lee, a Daily Jour- 5 I 2007 record: 9-5, reached North final champ Louisville. nal All-Area first-teamer, transferred I Coach: Jimmy Mitchell (11th year) No. 2 Corinth also returns seven to West Point. Fellow first-team Ah- I Returning starters: 9 offense, 7 defense starters on defense, and Mitchell told marus Swinney graduated, meaning ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 them in January, “We don’t want to the middle could be a soft spot. lose ground. We want to pick up Mitchell thinks junior Rashad SCHEDULE 3 players to watch where we left off.” Mayes (6-1, 220) and sophomore Aug. 29 Senatobia The Warriors know about gaining Trevor Toomer (6-0, 205) can fill the Sept. 5 at New Albany QB/SS Zerrick Payne, Sr. ground. They started the 2007 season holes and help Corinth make another Sept. 12 Tishomingo Co. I Passed for 1,417 yards, 9 TDs; rushed for 626, 14. 1-4 and finished third in Division 1- deep playoff run. Sept. 19 at Booneville* 3A. Starting tailback Hubert Crawford But they’re likely to meet that same Sept. 26 Ripley* RB Hubert Crawford, Sr. was lost for the season four games in. obstacle: Louisville. Oct. 3 Rosa Fort I Rushed for 460 yards in four games before back injury. Zerrick Payne was still trying to find “This year, a lot of things we worked Oct. 10 at Mooreville* himself as a first-year quarterback. He on, we worked on them because we Oct. 17 Kossuth* wound up having a good season – want to get to Louisville,” Payne said. Oct. 24 at North Pontotoc* LB Rashad Mayes, Jr. more than 2,000 total yards of offense “We know we’re going to have to go Oct. 31 Alcorn Central* I Sat out 2007 after transferring from Biggersville. – and is set to take off as a senior with through them to get to state.” *–Division 1-3A game scouting report NO. 3: RIPLEY BREAKDOWN Ripley keeps running I Graduation of offensive linemen – like I All-Stater Dylan Morton – left some big Half of Tigers’ dangerous backfield junior Tony Black (374 yards, 6 TDs) holes. If vaunted running game is to get duo returns, will have some help. and senior Damone McDonald (290 off the ground,Tigers need to fill gaps yards, 1 TD), expects the offensive rhythm to continue. with big guys who know their assign- BY JAY TIDWELL “We’re not selfish with who gets the ments. … Lost key receivers in Tootie Special to the Journal ball,” said Cook (5-foot-8, 173 Carruth, Tyler Vuncannon. … LB Ryan The Ripley Tigers have experienced pounds), who amassed last year’s im- Richardson had 82 tackles, brings expe- tremendous success since Mac Mc- pressive stats even though he missed rience. Curry arrived in 2005: Three consecu- two games due to injury. “That’s how tive Division 1-3A titles, 10 wins in we do it; we don’t get selfish, we just 2005, 11 wins in 2006, and a dozen vic- QB Will Wallis 5-year glance, wins play the game, and we play our hearts tories last season. out.” DESTE LEE 12 One key to the Tippah County 11 school’s gridiron prosperity has been 10 12 Wallis under center 8 the novelty of its offense and defense. tigers fast facts McCurry utilizes systems that oppos- Senior Will Wallis (5-10, 175) returns 5 ing teams see infrequently. at quarterback, and said he’s prepared I Division: 1-3A The Tigers run their unique to run the ball as well as throw it. I 2007 record: 12-1, reached third round of playoffs schemes – a Wing-T offense and a 3-3, However, the Tigers lack a wide receiv- I Coach: Mac McCurry (4th year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Cover 2 defense – with machine-like er with significant varsity experience. I Returning starters: 4 offense, 4 defense precision. And on offense, run is the “We lost our two senior receivers SCHEDULE operative term. (Tootie Carruth and Tyler Vuncan- Aug. 29 at New Albany “We’ve got three running backs that non), but we’ve got a couple coming 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at North Panola we’ll use to complement each other,” back,” Wallis said. “Usually running Sept. 12 Pontotoc McCurry said. “When one is running, works, but every now and then we’ve RB Tony Black, Jr. Sept. 19 Horn Lake the others will be blocking or faking. got to throw it, and we’ll see what hap- I Rushed for 374 yards, 6 TDs in backup role. Sept. 26 at Corinth* Instead of having one back for a de- pens.” Oct. 3 Mooreville* fense to focus on, we have more than Senior Rashun Adams (5-10, 211) is OL Chanston Jeter, Jr. Oct. 10 at Kossuth* one.” one of only four returning on defense. I Stands 6-3, 280; only returning starter up front. Oct. 17 North Pontotoc* Michael Poole (1,700 yards, 12 TDs) A three-year starter on the line, Adams Oct. 24 at Alcorn Central* is gone, but senior Jaquise Cook (1,679 is the leading returning tackler, finish- Oct. 31 Booneville* yards, 27 TDs) is ready for another big ing last year with 91 total tackles, 3.5 QB Will Wallis, Sr. *–Division 1-3A game year. Cook, joined in the backfield by sacks, and an . I Returning starter will run, pass, kick and punt. NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 25H NO. 4: BRUCE scouting report Deep weapons cache BREAKDOWN I New QB Curtis Lyons will also be a I Reigning Player of the Year isn’t Richard, and they know Curtis is an shut-down CB, as he was last year. … only guy who can tote the ball. athlete, but now we’ve got three Marcel Gaston (6-3, 200) will be hybrid threats.” TE/WR target. … Only loss on offensive Credit the workhorse Richard, who BY BRAD LOCKE line was Justin Shaw, an All-Area sec- said, “I’ve been pushing him.” Daily Journal ond-teamer, but depth a concern. … De- Of course you know about Bruce’s fensive line has four third-year starters. best weapon, senior tailback Richard Loaded with experience … DE Dustin Carr (6-4, 275) drawing D-I Freelon. He rushed for 2,536 yards And that’s just the beginning for looks. … Of 13 seniors, 10 start. and 33 touchdowns to earn the Daily Bruce, which returns nine starters on RB Richard Freelon Journal’s Offensive Player of the Year offense and 10 on defense from a 5-year glance, wins honor. squad that went 9-3 and reached the C. TODD SHERMAN You might also have heard of anoth- second round of the Class 2A playoffs. Bruce allowed 17.8 points per game 11 er weapon, quarterback Curtis Lyons. 10 He replaces Shaunvanta Ingram, who last season, and the defense is stocked 9 trojans fast facts 7 left the team to focus on basketball. with third-year starters, including 6 I Division: 2-2A Lyons, a senior, is the fastest player on Richard Freelon (75 tackles) at line- I 2007 record: 9-3, reached second round of playoffs the team. backer. He’ll line up next to seniors I Coach: James Ray (3rd year) But the Trojans have a third Marcel Gaston and Jacob Samuel. I Returning starters: 9 offense, 10 defense weapon, one you’ve sort of heard of. “I was defensive coordinator at Tay- ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Freelon has a twin brother, Cleve- lorsville for six years,” Ray said. “(This land, who until recently wasn’t as defense) is as good as any team we SCHEDULE 3 players to watch gung-ho about football as Richard. had there.” Aug. 29 DeSoto Central But as last season wore on, Cleveland Will it all be enough to carry Bruce Sept. 4 Vardaman# RB Richard Freelon, Sr. began flashing his potential, and he to Jackson? With guys like Cleveland Sept. 12 at Hatley I Journal’s Offensive MVP had 2,536 yards, 33 TDs. had an “outstanding” spring, accord- Freelon getting fully on board, it just Sept. 19 Baldwyn ing to coach James Ray. might. Sept. 26 at Center Hill QB/DB Curtis Lyons, Sr. He’s 6-foot, 190, smaller than his “We go in knowing we could possi- Oct. 3 at William-Sullivan* I First year at QB; made 7 INTs. brother (6-0, 205), but he benches 300 bly be going to state, trying to win,” Oct. 10 Ackerman* and runs a 4.6 in the 40. Richard Freelon said. “Everybody’s Oct. 17 Water Valley* “He’s fast, he’s strong, he’s under- been coming to the field house and Oct. 24 at Eupora* LB Jacob Samuel, Sr. standing our offense more and more,” working out, so we know what we’ve Oct. 31 J.Z. George* I Made 124 tackles, 22 TFL, 4 sacks. Ray said. “People know about got ahead of us.” *–Division 2-2A game; #–Thursday scouting report NO. 5: EAST WEBSTER BREAKDOWN Banking on Banks I Senior DE Tanner Roberson (6-3, I 210) has recorded 32 sacks over the Senior QB, in third year as starter, much going back to past two seasons. … Senior RB Reginald eager to get team back to Jackson. start. The people who O’Briant has rushed for 3,013 yards over surround him make him have an opportu- the past two seasons. … At DT are 168- BY JOHN WILBERT nity to do good pound Michael Flowers and 248-pound Daily Journal Jacob Harris. … All-State K/P Randy things.” Every so often a special quarterback With that being Davis now playing soccer at Jones CC. … comes along who takes his team far Wolverines were unbeaten in Division 1-1A. said, Banks’ perform- despite his youth. ance on the field truly East Webster’s Johnthan Banks did merits MVP honors. BANKS UTL Jermaine Liggins 5-year glance, wins just that as a sophomore, when he The 6-foot-3, 180- guided the Wolverines to the Class 1A pound second-team ADAM GORE/MONITOR-HERALD 12 12 state final, and he’s itching to get back. All-State quarterback completed 35- Banks, now a senior, and his team of-75 pass attempts for 760 yards and 8 8 lost that game to Puckett, and came 7 nine touchdowns, had 92 rush at- wolverines fast facts within one game last year a return trip tempts for 599 yards and 14 TDs, and to Jackson. I Division: 1-1A even returned five punts for touch- I “His big attribute is he’s just a win- downs all last season. 2007 record: 12-1, reached North final ner,” said East Webster head coach I Coach: Jimmy Carden (10th year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 “He's field smart – part of it is from I Jimmy Carden. “He doesn’t like to get instinct and part of it’s from things Returning starters: 9 offense, 8 defense beat, and he’s going to compete.” SCHEDULE that we’ve taught him,” Carden said. Aug. 29 Biggersville* But this year, the Wolverines return Banks also started at free safety last 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Thrasher* nine offensive and eight defensive season, and Carden said Banks, who Sept. 12 Smithville* starters in what is Banks’ last season has already committed to Mississippi as a prep athlete and what could be State, will probably be a defensive QB/DB Johnthan Banks, Sr. Sept. 19 at West Oktibbeha* I Sept. 26 Calhoun City* his best shot at a state championship. back for the Bulldogs next year. Passed for 760 yards, rushed for 599. Oct. 3 at Vardaman* “Another thing is he’s surrounded East Webster will have a stingy de- Oct. 10 Falkner* by some pretty good football players,” fense, but there are concerns. DE/TE Tanner Roberson, Sr. Oct. 17 at Okolona* said Carden. “You take Johnthan, put “Experience won’t be an issue right I Made 105 tackles, 16 sacks. Oct. 24 East Oktibbeha* him on a team that doesn’t have much now,” said Carden. “Depth will be, be- Oct. 31 Idle talent, he wouldn’t do quite as good. cause if you get some guys hurt, I Nov. 7 at West Lowndes* “But he’s playing with 11 other sen- don’t know how well we are going to UTL Jermaine Liggins, Sr. *–Division 1-1A game iors to start the year that are pretty replace those.” I Missed most of last year with back injury. PAGE 26H I NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL 2007 AREA LEADERS I This list of area football leaders was culled from All-Area nominations submitted by coaches. It is not comprehensive. Rushing Dee Coleman, Saltillo 113 Player,Team Rushes Yards TD Bill Hawkins, Booneville 113 Richard Freelon, Bruce 316 2,536 33 Ahmarus Swinney, Corinth 113 Jeremy Cannon, New Albany 214 1,783 18 Markell Lee, Corinth 110 Reginald O’Briant, East Webster 171 1,772 15 Perez Welch, Baldwyn 107 Damien Hughes, Corinth 187 1,770 19 Tanner Roberson, East Webster 105 JoJo Pearson, Hebron Chr. 207 1,732 24 Adam Murphree, Calhoun Aca. 102 Deshaun McGaughy, Itawamba AHS 200 1,727 22 Daniel Harber,Tishomingo Co. 96 Michael Poole, Ripley 188 1,700 12 Jordi Vernor, Ripley 93 Jaquise Cook, Ripley 215 1,679 27 Rashun Adams, Ripley 91 Ken Davis,Tupelo 219 1,427 15 Keith Elliott,Tupelo 91 Cortney Scott,West Point 227 1,305 14 Ryan Moore,Tishomingo Co. 91 Matt Cook, Kossuth 168 1,294 12 Rudy Cox, Itawamba AHS 89 Xzadrian Shelley, Baldwyn 111 1,210 13 Matt Collier, Hebron Chr. 88 Tyler Pritchard,Tishomingo Co. 162 1,208 11 Clyde Smith, Oxford 87 Gavin Luster,Walnut 160 1,191 12 Daniel Jones, East Webster 85 Marcus Sanders, Nettleton 150 1,114 10 William Shumpert, Itawamba AHS 84 Jamerson Love,Aberdeen 135 1,109 15 Creighton Nelms, Kossuth 83 Richard McFadden,Amory 177 1,056 11 Kevin Barnette,Vardaman 82 Jacob Sesma,Walnut 151 1,002 13 Dante’ Jennings, Calhoun City 81 Dexter Shelton,West Point 80 Jimmy Young, Mooreville 78 Passing Marshall Ballard, New Albany 77 Player,Team Comp.-A-I % Yards TD Terry Hadley,Tupelo 76 Malcolm Warren, Mantachie 76 Michael Ledbetter, Shannon 161-288-6 55.9 2,705 27 Michael Carr,West Point 75 Marcus Hinton, Aberdeen 136-239-7 56.9 2,613 24 Richard Freelon, Bruce 75 Jami Boland, Nettleton 147-246-10 59.8 2,543 31 Mark Hunt,Tishomingo Co. 74 Chris Garrett, Tupelo 98-178-11 55.1 1,739 18 Dylan Morton, Ripley 73 Zerrick Payne, Corinth 102-213-8 47.9 1,417 9 Zerrick Payne, Corinth 70 *–Not all teams keep this stat the same way. JoJo Pearson, Hebron Chr. 104-203-12 51.2 1,362 16 Bret Jefcoat, Itawamba AHS 81-147-2 55.1 1,321 8 Sacks Richard McFadden, Amory 87-157-10 55.4 1,131 10 Player,Team Sacks Willie Grady, Okolona 19.5 Receiving Tanner Roberson, East Webster 16 Player,Team Rec. Yards TD William Shumpert, Itawamba AHS 13 William Green, Shannon 54 1,108 16 Serrico Williams, Lafayette Co. 10 Tevin Blanchard, Aberdeen 44 1,025 9 Dylan Morton, Ripley 8 Xavier Humphries,Vardaman 53 903 9 Clyde Smith, Oxford 8 Dorian Berry, Baldwyn 39 857 11 Chris Gipson, Lafayette Co. 6 Jeremy Jones, Nettleton 49 832 15 Markell Lee, Corinth 6 Chad Bumphis,Tupelo 37 787 12 Creighton Nelms, Kossuth 6 Horatio Williams, Oxford 39 750 5 Damion Robinson, West Point 6 Rickey Bell,Aberdeen 37 748 7 Daniel Jones, East Webster 5 Ladarrius Cole, Nettleton 41 740 9 William Frierson, New Albany 36 664 6 Interceptions Arceto Clark, Shannon 42 629 6 Player,Team Int. Willie Grady, Okolona 36 622 7 Brandon Lawrence, Calhoun City 10 Brandon Lawrence, Calhoun City 37 656 8 Jaymel Tyes, Baldwyn 10 Malcolm Warren, Mantachie 10 Tackles* Michael Ford, Okolona 9 Player,Team Tackles Johnathan Banks, East Webster 8 Kalen Elliot, New Albany 165 Mitchell McCurry, East Webster 8 Ben Graddy, Ripley 147 Asian Ruff, Itawamba AHS 8 Brady Fortenberry, Oxford 140 Curtis Lyons, Bruce 7 Sawyer Wheatley, New Albany 140 Zerrick Payne, Corinth 7 Willie Grady, Okolona 132 Dorian Berry, Baldwyn 6 Jacob Sesma,Walnut 129 Michael Carr,West Point 6 Adam Funk,Tupelo 128 Tootie Carruth, Ripley 6 Adam Hill, Saltillo 126 Arceto Clark, Shannon 6 Jacob Samuel, Bruce 124 James McAuley,Tupelo 5 Justin Cherry, Okolona 120 Dominique Davenport, Baldwyn 4 Taylor Debusk,Tupelo 115 Willie Grady, Okolona 4 Luzon Rivers, Shannon 114 Tyler Pritchard,Tishomingo Co. 4

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BY BRAD LOCKE I Keep up with the NeMiss prep Players 2 Watch scene on a daily basis online at bradlocke.wordpress.com. 12 SENIORS: Both Daily Journal Players of the Year return 12 juniors: Some have been in the spotlight, QB/FS Johnthan Banks, East Webster WR/SS Dorian Berry, Baldwyn others are ready to find it. I Specs: 6-3, 180 I Specs: 6-4, 210 I Stats: 760 yards, 9 TDs passing; 599 yards, 14 TDs rush- I Stats: 39 catches, 857 yards, 11 TDs; 6 INTs. ing. … Returned five punts for TDs. I Résumé: Good at breaking tackles. … Coming off I Résumé: Third-year starter is extremely athletic. … Re- shoulder surgery in spring. turned five punts for TDs. I Colleges: Mississippi St. showing the most interest. I Colleges: Committed to Mississippi St. I Coach says: “He’s a big threat any time you put the I Coach says: “He’s probably our most versatile player.” – ball in his hands.” – Jimmy Dillinger Jimmy Carden No IPTC Header UTL Chad Bumphis,Tupelo found RB/LB Richard Freelon, Bruce I Specs: 5-10, 185 I Specs: 6-0, 205 C. TODD SHERMAN I Stats: 1,854 total yards (787 receiving), 21 TDs. I Stats: 316 rushes, 2,536 yards, 33 TDs. I Résumé: Excels at receiver, tailback, quarterback, kick- I Résumé: 2007 Journal Offensive Player of the Year. … RB/LB Bo Brown, Booneville (above) er returner, punter. Added 25 pounds in offseason. I Rushed for 1,390 yards over last I Colleges: Interest from Alabama, LSU, Michigan, Missis- I Colleges: Alcorn State only offer so far. two seasons in crowded backfield. sippi St. I Coach says: “He’s just as important to us defensively WR Erik Buchanan,Aberdeen I Coach says: “We’re going to rely on Chad to do a multi- as offensively.” – James Ray I Has size (6-2), speed, athleticism tude of things.” – Eric Collins that will draw D-I looks. QB/DB Michael Carr,West Point I First-year starter at QB; had 463 QB Chris Garrett,Tupelo WR William Green, Shannon receiving yards last year. I Specs: 6-4, 220 I Specs: 5-8, 165 QB Anthony Franklin, Nettleton I Stats: 98-for-178, 1,739 yards, 18 TDs, 11 INTs. I Stats: 54 catches, 1,108 yards, 16 TDs. I First-year starter has chance to be I Résumé: Is 202 yards shy of Tupelo career passing I Résumé: Quick off line, elusive in open field. … All-Area a big arm in 2-3A. mark. … Third-year starter. first teamer led area in receiving yards. RB/NG Eric Johnson, New Albany I Colleges: Committed to LSU. I Colleges: Interest from Delta St., Louisiana Tech, North I A 210-pound inside runner, but I Coach says: “He’s really focused on what he needs to Alabama, Southern Miss. he’s clocked a 4.4 in the 40. do.” – Eric Collins I Coach says: “He can take it to the house at any given QB Jerion Jones, Booneville time.” – Chad Cook I Dual threat took over three games into 2007, had 6-3 record. RB Jamerson Love,Aberdeen (below) TE/WR Dan Hicks, Oxford QB Marcus Hinton,Aberdeen I Scatback type gained 1,109 yards I Specs: 6-5, 245 I Specs: 5-11, 205 at 8.2 yards per carry last year. I Stats: 17 catches, 271 yards. I Stats: 2,613 yards, 24 TDs passing; 903 yards, 15 TDs RB Deshaun McGaughy, Itawamba AHS I Résumé: Added about 20 pounds, but still athletic rushing. I Elusive back rushed for 1,727 enough to play both spots. … Has matured mentally. I Résumé: Has more zip on passes this year. … Got yards, 22 TDs last year. I Colleges: Alabama, Mississippi St., Ole Miss showing stronger. … Also a good punter. NG Jermaine Pegues, Lafayette Co. interest. I Colleges: Interest from West Alabama. I Stands 5-10, 300 pounds, but is I Coach says: “Now he plays like a young man rather I Coach says: “If he was 6-3, everybody in the country light on his feet. than a little boy.” – Johnny Hill would be wanting him.” – Chris Duncan FS/WR Asian Ruff, Itawamba AHS I Playmaker made 64 tackles, 8 INTs last year. WR/DB Brandon Lawrence, Calhoun City QB Montez Phillips, Lafayette Co. DT Curtis Virges,West Point I Specs: 5-9, 155 I Specs: 6-2, 200 I A muscular 6-4, 307 pounds, he’s I Stats: 1,315 total yards, 18 TDs; 10 INTs. I Stats: 958 yards, 9 TDs passing; 834 yards, 7 TDs rush- got good feet, hands. I Résumé: Only 5-9, 155, but plays bigger. … Will also ing. OL/DL Jonathon Whirley,Tishomin- play at RB, QB in multiple-set offense. I Résumé: Great feet. … Has improved passing tech- go Co. I Colleges: Interest from Delta St., Memphis, Ole Miss, nique. I Played only OL last year; great Southern Miss. I College: Committed to Mississippi State. feet, good football savvy. I Coach says: “Brandon is probably the hardest-playing I Coach says: “I think technique-wise he’s better.” – An- player I’ve ever coached.” – Mike Ray thony Hart

RB/DB Tyler Pritchard,Tishomingo Co. DL/FB William Shumpert, Itawamba AHS I Specs: 5-7, 165 I Specs: 6-0, 225 I Stats: 1,208 yards, 11 TDs; 49 tackles, 4 INTs. I Stats: 84 tackles, 13 sacks, 4 fumble recoveries. I Résumé: Elusive playmaker, but not afraid of contact. I Résumé: 2007 Journal Defensive Player of the Year.… … Fourth-year starter. Plays four positions along line. I Colleges: Interest from Alabama, Mississippi St., Stan- I Colleges: Committed to Mississippi St. ford,Virginia. I Coach says: “He has an innate ability to find the ball.” I Coach says: “He’s the kind of kid that comes along – Jamie Mitchell once in a lifetime.” – Steve Carter DESTE LEE PAGE 28H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL STARKVILLE scouting report Four-way QB race BREAKDOWN I Yellowjackets open the season with I Several positions are open, but Lee one of the state’s toughest schedules, playing on the road at Louisville, Meridian thinks enthusiasm can give boost. and West Point, before hosting Wayne County. … Looking to replace nine starters BY GENE PHELPS on offense, including quarterback Brad Daily Journal Our youth and our enthusiasm Henderson. … Starkville lost four games Bill Lee entered last season with one by three points or less last year, including quarterback, a proven one, Brad Hen- are positives.” 14-13 playoff loss to Olive Branch. derson. This season, he’s got four who Bill Lee WR Charles Tillery can line up under the center, but all Starkville coach 5-year glance, wins are untested. C. TODD SHERMAN The one who steps to the front in consider using“ all four quarterbacks. preseason drills – Justin Minor, James Starkville’s offense does feature a 10 Phelps, Justin Rogers or Jonquez potential bright spot in wide receiver 7 7 yellowjackets fast facts 6 Johnson – will do so with an equally Charles Tillery, a junior, who is being 5 I Division: 1-5A inexperienced offensive line. counted on to be the “go-to” guy this I 2007 record: 7-6, reached second round playoffs The lone starter back up front is fall. I Coach: Bill Lee (6th year) center Lake Jackson. Another quest for Lee in the presea- ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 2 offense, 5 defense “Everything you do on offense is son will be to find a running back to predicated on blocking,” said Lee, replace East Mississippi Community SCHEDULE who enters his sixth season in College signee Patrick Shed. Aug. 29 at Louisville 3 players to watch Starkville. “If you block well, every- On defense, the Jackets welcome Sept. 5 at Meridian body looks good. back five starters, including Billy Sept. 12 at West Point OL Lake Jackson, Sr. “A quarterback has to feel comfort- Shed, who heads up the secondary. I Sept. 19 Wayne Co. 270-pound C is one to two starters back on offense. able in the pocket.” “He’s just a good athlete who can Sept. 26 at DeSotoCentral Lee said the starter will be the play- play,” Lee said. Oct. 3 Tupelo* WR Charles Tillery, Jr. er who adapts his skills to an untested Lee said one thing his squad is lack- Oct. 10 at Horn Lake* I Considered team’s best athlete, will be the go-to guy. team of blockers. ing is work ethic. He’s been impressed Oct. 17 Southaven* “Offensive line is definitely a ques- with their offseason work. Oct. 24 at Olive Branch* tion mark,” Lee noted. “We’re light “Everybody’s worked really hard,” Oct. 31 South Panola* DB Billy Shed, Jr. there ... real light.” he said. “Our youth and our enthusi- Nov. 7 Columbus* I Coach Bill Lee calls him a super “go-getter” in secondary. The coach did say that he might asm are positives.” *–Division 1-5A game I Preps online: Brad Locke breaks down the high school scene every day at bradlocke.wordpress.com LOOKING BACK … Auto. Home. Life. Past state champions Commercial. 2007 Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Laurel Class 3A: Louisville Kim Arnold Class 2A: West Bolivar 662-869-0760 Class 1A: Ray Brooks 111-A Town Creek Dr 2006 Saltillo Class 5A: South Panola [email protected] Class 4A: Wayne Co. Luke Harris Class 3A: Franklin Co. 1212 W est Main Shopping Center Class 2A: East Marion Subjectto availability and qualifications. Insurance offered onlywith select companies. Allstate Insurance Company , Allstate Indemnity Company , T upelo, Mississippi 662-842-7027 Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company , and Allstate Life Insurance Company: Northbrook, Illinois © 2007 Allstate Insurance Company . Class 1A: Puckett 2005 Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: West Point Call Us For All of Y our Class 3A: Hazlehurst CLASSIC Class 2A: Lumberton Tailgating Needs! Class 1A: Ray Brooks 2004 FINISHES Class 5A: South Panola Class 4A: Brookhaven Class 3A: Senatobia 1181 W . MAIN Class 2A: Lumberton TUPELO Class 1A: Mize 2003 ©

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- J o ur n a l Class 4A: Wayne Co. “Git Jiggy W it Da Piggy” Class 3A: Greene Co. “WE SELL THE BEST” 07 Class 2A: Seminary 1100 W . MAIN ST. • TUPELO • 844-6868 Class 1A: Weir NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 29H NEW ALBANY scouting report Is Price right for ’Dogs? BREAKDOWN I I New head coach knows the team – “With our defense QB Drew Dodds, a left-hander, this year that we’re passed for 1,467 yards, 10 TDs last year. he’s been with it since 2002. putting in, it will help … RBs Kareem Brown, Eric Johnson Sawyer be an even have potential to produce steady BY JAY TIDWELL better player than he yardage. … Offensive line averages 280 Special to the Journal was last year.” pounds, led by G Adrian Ivy. … New de- This is Ron Price’s first season as Wheatley, who fin- fensive scheme will take advantage of head coach in New Albany, but he is ished with 140 total strong LB corps and hopes to eliminate not new to the Bulldogs. tackles, feels like last big plays that hurt last season. “I’ve been with every one of these RB Eric Johnson season’s record (3-8) PRICE guys, basically since the seventh doesn’t accurately re- 5-year glance, wins grade,” said Price, who came to New flect the Bulldogs’ ability. THOMAS WELLS Albany as head coach at the middle “They were a lot closer than they school in 2002. “I’m just thankful for were (on the scoreboard),” said bulldogs fast facts the opportunity to hopefully finish Wheatley, a senior. “There would be 8 with our seniors what we started back one busted play and we would stop I 5 Division: 1-4A in seventh grade. them for a couple, and then they’d do 4 4 I 2007 record: 3-8, reached first round of playoffs “And we’ve asked them to build our 3 I one long run or one long pass, and we Coach: Ron Price (1st year) foundation for the future.” would hold them again, but then I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 4 offense, 5 defense something else bad would happen. Fixing the defense “This year is going to be a different Phase One of Price’s rebuilding pro- story.” SCHEDULE 3 players to watch gram will focus on defense. Even On offense, Price hopes for a con- Aug. 29 Ripley though the Bulldogs made the 4A tinuation of last season’s productivity Sept. 5 Corinth LB Ben Bolen, Sr. playoffs last year, they gave up an av- (2,764 yards rushing, 1,518 passing). Sept. 12 at Baldwyn I Made 117 total tackles (51 solo), 2 sacks. erage of 36.3 points per game. “We had a lot of success last year in Sept. 19 at Center Hill* Price is installing a 3-5-3 scheme, the spread offense, so we’re going to Sept. 26 Itawamba AHS* RB Kareem Brown, So. and second-team all-state linebacker stay with that offense again this year,” Oct. 3 at Tishomingo Co.* I Explosive runner – first carry last season was 73-yard TD. Sawyer Wheatley (6-foot-1, 190- he said. “This is the third different Oct. 10 Shannon* pounds) will be one of the key con- head coach in three years, and I didn’t Oct. 17 at Pontotoc* tributors. see any reason to throw a whole dif- Oct. 24 Saltillo* WR William Frierson, Sr. “He’s got a great attitude, and he’s ferent offense at these kids for the Oct. 31 Byhalia I Leading returning receiver – 36-664 yards, 6 TDs. got a great work ethic,”Price said. third consecutive year.” *–Division 1-4A game scouting report Dampeer keeps on building PONTOTOC BREAKDOWN I Warriors should be improved offensively I Warriors took a step in the right Candan , who played five with all five linemen back in camp.That’s a games at quarterback last season, re- key with a young QB and two sophomore direction, but coach wants more. turns to direct the offense. The 6-foot, RBs. … Secondary a major concern with 170-pound junior has impressed BY GENE PHELPS four newcomers lining up. … Pontotoc won Dampeer with his ability to produce Daily Journal just four games over the three years prior results. Charlie Dampeer worked his re- to coach Charlie Dampeer’s arrival. … “He wasn’t ready last year, but we building magic last season at Ponto- Pontotoc was held to seven points for four had to throw him into the fire,” the toc, turning a 1-9 doormat into a re- straight games last year. coach noted. “It helped him. We’d like spectable 6-4 club. to say he’s a work in progress like any Still, Pontotoc missed the playoffs, LB/TE Xavian Evans 5-year glance, wins and the second-year coach wasn’t sat- quarterback.” isfied. Pontotoc’s backfield features full- THOMAS WELLS “We won six games and that’s good, back Blake Littlejohn, who will also 10 but I feel like we could have been bet- see duty at H-back, and a pair of soph- ter,” said Dampeer, who turned around omore tailbacks in Randall Crayton warriors fast facts and Ken Marrow. 6 programs in Saltillo and Tishomingo I County. “The ultimate challenge is to On defense, the key player will be Division: 1-4A 3 I 2007 record: 6-4, no playoffs 1 see if you can turn it around. senior linebacker Justin Moss, who 0 was second on the team in tackles last I Coach: Charlie Dampeer (2nd year) “I must like challenges.” I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 One area the coach will not be chal- fall. He will also play tight end. Returning starters: 6 offense, 4 defense lenged this season is on his offensive “He’s a go-to guy for us,” Dampeer SCHEDULE line. He’s got all five starters and part- said. “We’re counting on him to carry Aug. 29 South Pontotoc time starters back. us on defense.” 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Aberdeen A pair of seniors – Ricky Nelson (6- That’s because the Warriors will be Sept. 12 at Ripley foot-1, 252 pounds) and Justin Moss relatively new in the secondary. The QB Candan Dallas, Jr. Sept. 19 at Tishomingo Co.* (6-2, 272) – are expected to lead the four starters penciled in all saw some I Played in the final five games last season. Sept. 26 Shannon* way. They’ll be joined by junior Bren- action last season. Oct. 3 Okolona nan Tutor (6-3, 281), who has the size “We’ve spent a lot of time with LB/TE Xavian Evans, Sr. Oct. 10 at Saltillo* and tools to play at the next level. them,” the coach said. “They’re work- I Considered the go-to guy on both sides of ball. Oct. 17 New Albany* “All these guys have good feet and ing on adapting to various coverages.” Oct. 24 at Center Hill* are good technicians,”Dampeer Michael Bounds, a newcomer, will Oct. 31 Itawamba AHS* noted. “They’re guys you can run be- handle the place kicking chores and OL Brennan Tutor, Jr. *–Division 1-4A game hind.” possibly the punting. I Makes an experienced line even better. PAGE 30H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL SALTILLO scouting report Tigers go on offensive BREAKDOWN I I Tigers played adequate defense from Entering second year as coach, tion as possible. their base 3-4 but struggled to get any- May tries to remedy offense’s woes. That’s where Lamart Harvey comes thing going in a multiple offense. … in as quarterback coach and offensive Coach Greg May likes the move of coordinator. BY PARRISH ALFORD Cameron Presley from defense to of- “I thought it would be best to have a Daily Journal fense (TE/FB), and believes that will quarterback coach, just one guy work- SALTILLO – After many years run- help. … Junior QB Drew Chisholm ing with the young guys in a small ning the show at Guntown Middle should be better with a year under his School, Greg May knew the players at group setting,” May said. “That’s belt. Saltillo High School. something we didn’t do last year.” Harvey will also serve as offensive QB Drew Chisholm The biggest problem – a pleasant 5-year glance, wins one – for his first season as Tigers’ coordinator, and Chris Stevenson will DESTE LEE head coach was how to best utilize his serve as defensive coordinator. increased resources. He had more Chisholm has six other returning starters around him on offense, in- coaches than he’d ever had before. 8 tigers fast facts “It was refreshing, but the biggest cluding receivers Pregon Staples and 7 I Division: 1-4A change was learning the assistants, John Michael Parker. I 2007 record: 0-10 and I had great ones, and learning to Also back are running back Earl 1 I Coach: Greg May (2nd year) listen to them and get them involved,” Bogan, tight end Jake Logan, guard 0 0 I Returning starters: 7 offense, 4 defense May said. Garrett Dornenbos, and tight end- ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 This season May hopes some fullback Cameron Presley, who moves tweaking of his staff will help Saltillo to offense after starting two years at SCHEDULE 3 players to watch rebound from an 0-10 season in his defensive end. Aug. 29 at New Hope initial campaign. Four returning starters on defense Sept. 5 Baldwyn RB Earl Bogan The Tigers got some things done on include linebackers Cameron Robin- Sept. 12 at Booneville I Only 5-2, 180, but is shifty, start-and-stop guy. defense but struggled mightily on the son, Coby Adams and Bobby Parks, Sept. 19 at Itawamba AHS* offensive side of the ball. and strong safety D.J. Jones. Sept. 26 Tishomingo Co.* QB Drew Chisholm, Jr. May said his players have kept a Oct. 3 at Shannon* I Passed for 485 yards, 1 TD; rushed for 200 yards. Improved QB situation good attitude and really bought into Oct. 10 Pontotoc* Junior quarterback Drew Chisholm the summer conditioning program. Oct. 17 Mooreville is a player May believes he can build “In a nutshell, we have to improve Oct. 24 at New Albany* TE/FB Cameron Presley, Sr. his offense around, and he’s trying to offensively. Our defense played great,” Oct. 31 Center Hill* I Two-year starter at DE until coaches moved him. get him as much individual instruc- he said. *–Division 1-4A game

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1806 E. M AIN S TREET •TUPELO NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 31H TISHOMINGO CO. scouting report Pieces falling into place BREAKDOWN I Braves return three starters on an al- I Second-year coach settled in, has But unlike in fantasy football, the ready solid offensive line. … Andrew plenty of experience returning. Braves cannot rely solely upon their Quillen, who started at OT last year, will offense to be serious title contenders start at FB this season. … RB Tyler in Division 1-4A. Their defense could BY JOHN WILBERT Pritchard will line up at WR and even QB very well be a work in progress; Carter on occasion to get more touches. Daily Journal says they are lacking in speed and size. The pieces are beginning to come …Coach Steve Carter has significant ex- perience coaching defenses at the col- together for second-year head coach Room to improve on defense Steve Carter and his Tishomingo lege level (Delta St., North Alabama). The Braves’ defense only returns County program. RB Tyler Pritchard three starters (all in the secondary) For starters, Carter has had his en- from last season's 6-5 team – a unit 5-year glance, wins tire coaching staff intact for a year that allowed nearly 36 points per SHELBY DANIEL/SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL now. To compliment his staff, Carter’s program returns seven offensive game in its final four games of 2007. Overall, Carter has to be pleased starters who now have playoff experi- 8 braves fast facts with the way things are going so far. I ence after reaching the first round of 6 6 Division: 1-4A the Class 4A playoffs. “I didn’t have my whole (coaching) I 2007 record: 6-5, reached first round of playoffs staff intact last year until July,” said 2 I Among those returnees are three of- 1 Coach: Steve Carter (2nd year) fensive linemen (last year's tackle An- Carter, whose first day on the job was I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 7 offense, 3 defense drew Quillen will play fullback this April 2 of last year after serving as an season), including mammoth junior assistant at the Wilson School in Flo- center Jonathan Whirley (6-foot-3, 280 rence, Ala. “So we were behind in SCHEDULE 3 players to watch pounds). Not to mention, the back- starting last year. I spent the spring Aug. 29 at Alcorn Central field is set to return with the likes of trying to get my staff together for the Sept. 5 Belmont QB/S Lee Griffin, Sr. strong-armed quarterback Lee Griffin summer. I practiced pretty much in Sept. 12 at Corinth I Good athlete, decent arm; second-year starter. and versatile running back Tyler the spring by myself.” Sept. 19 Pontotoc* Pritchard, who has started since his Tishomingo County has only been Sept. 26 at Saltillo* RB/CB Tyler Pritchard, Sr. freshman season. to the playoffs three times since open- Oct. 3 New Albany* I Rushed for 1,208 yards, 11 TDs. Throw in some intangibles such as a ing its doors for the first time in 1991. Oct. 10 at Center Hill* solid work ethic and desire to post a “These kids have tasted victory a lit- Oct. 17 Itawamba AHS* fourth straight winning season, and tle bit the last three years,” said Carter. Oct. 24 Booneville C/DT Jonathan Whirley, Jr. Carter now has the ingredients for “They”ve been to the playoffs. They Oct. 31 at Shannon* I Stands 6-3, 280, turning into D-I prospect. success in 2008. want to win. They expect to win.” *–Division 1-4A game scouting report New-look, same Chargers? OXFORD BREAKDOWN I Chargers will have new faces in several I A lot of key players are gone, but as talented as positions, so lack of game experience will Oxford always finds a way to win. anybody that be a problem early. … With transfer of WR we’ve faced. It never really mat- Devon Wilson (23 catches, 449 yards, 4 BY JAY TIDWELL ters who’s sup- TDs) to Lafayette, Chargers lost their lead- Special to the Journal ing returning receiver. … Must replace all- posed to be the Coach Hill Oxford will look like a different team best. Just toss that state offensive linemen Brian Evans, Clyde this season. wants to win Smith. ... Derrick Williams, Macarell out. It’s going to The Chargers lost eight defensive be tight no matter every second of Hickinbottom will get lots of carries. starters, as well as six on offense. Most what.” every minute of graduated; a couple transferred. From Hill’s per- TE/WR Dan Hicks 5-year glance, wins Despite the heavy losses, Oxford spective, it’s not every game.” will play with the same level of inten- “ just about win- Riley Saunders 13 sity as last year’s squad that finished 8- BRUCE NEWMAN/OXFORD EAGLE ning. It’s about ef- Oxford QB 10 10 4. That’s because Johnny Hill, in his 9 fort. 8 16th season as coach, has a competi- “The biggest chargers fast facts tive streak that brings out the best in thing, in my opin- I his players. Division: 2-4A ion,” Hill said, “is when the thing’s I 2007 record: 8-4, reached second round of playoffs “Coach Hill wants to win every sec- over with, can you look yourself in the I ond of every minute of every game,” Coach: Johnny Hill (16th year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 mirror and tell yourself, ‘I did every- I Returning starters: 5 offense, 3 defense said senior quarterback Riley Saun- thing I could possibly do.’ If you can ders. “That’s the attitude that he instills say that, then you can sleep at night.” SCHEDULE in us. He wants us to grind, and it does- On offense, Saunders (9 of 19 pass- Aug. 29 Charleston n’t matter if we win by three or 300.” ing, 154 yards in a back-up role last 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Horn Lake Hill has a knack for getting his play- year) will be joined in the backfield by Sept. 12 at Senatobia ers to perform at a high level, whether TE/WR Dan Hicks, Sr. senior Derrick Williams and junior I Sept. 19 Lafayette Co.* it’s a non-division matchup or a tussle Macarell Hickinbottom, the team’s top Stands 6-foot-5, 245; made 17 catches for 271 yards. Sept. 26 at Cleveland* against cross-town rival Lafayette two rushers last season. Dan Hicks (6- Oct. 3 Gentry* County. foot-5, 245 pounds) will be a big target RB Derrick Williams , Sr. Oct. 10 North Panola “Judging by our ballgames the past at wide receiver, along with fellow sen- I Speedster led Chargers in rushing: 553 yards, 11 TDs. Oct. 17 at Greenwood* couple of years,” said Commodores iors Dexter Barnes and Curt Presley. Oct. 24 Hernando* coach Anthony Hart, referring to two Seven seniors will start on defense, Oct. 31 at Clarksdale* consecutive overtime wins against including returning starters Demar- LB Demarcus Helm, Sr. *–Division 2-4A game Oxford, “I thought (the Chargers) were cus Helm, Adrian Agnew and Presley. I Most tackles (53) and sacks (5) of returnees. PAGE 32H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL ALCORN CENTRAL scouting report Starting over … again BREAKDOWN I Golden Bears snapped a 33-game I Brian White not afraid to make will run a lot. Senior Jacob Vandiver, losing streak last season. … RB Jacob who rushed for 415 yards on 70 car- Vandiver added 30 pounds in offseason, changes entering second year. ries, will get most of the carries. Open- up to 170. … Only two players lost from ing holes for him will be senior full- BY BRAD LOCKE last year. … Senior Taylor Wallace, a bas- back Ben Farrell. ketball player, new to team and will start Daily Journal Last year’s top rusher, junior Brice It’s his second year at the helm, but at OLB. … Defense will base out of 4-3. Young (107-550), will back up Vandiv- … Last winning season was 1989, when Brian White feels like it’s a fresh start. er but will start at cornerback. He was 1-9 in his first season at Al- Bears went 11-1, won division. Coach Brian White corn Central. It was the Golden Bears’ Big things up front 18th straight non-winning season, but The Bears’ four-man defensive front 5-year glance, wins White wouldn’t place all the blame on is where White sees big things hap- DESTE LEE history. pening. Lowell Gann will man a tackle He was unfamiliar with the players, golden bears fast facts and they struggled to grasp all he spot – the other is up for grabs – while threw at them. twins Trevor and Tyler Oaks will be the I Division: 1-3A ends. For White, this year is about simpli- 3 I 2007 record: 1-9 “We improved a lot in the spring,” 2 I fying. 1 Coach: Brian White (2nd year) “During the offseason, he kind of said White. “Our defensive line coach- 0 0 I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 10 offense, 10 defense culled down (the playbook) to what es have worked real hard.” we felt our personnel was best suited Hard work has been the theme for for,” White said. White; he made it a priority when he SCHEDULE 3 players to watch Twenty starters – 10 on each side of arrived. White acknowledges the past Aug. 29 Tishomingo Co. the ball – are back, including the en- struggles and the psychological toll Sept. 5 at Walnut QB Dylan Cagle, Sr. tire offensive line. White has gained that can take on a program, but he Sept. 12 Biggersville I Started last four games after starter injured. their trust, and they in turn have sees a way out. Sept. 19 Mooreville* gained each other’s trust. “We’re going to keep plugging, and Sept. 26 at Kossuth* WR/FS Evan Johnson, Sr. “I think our backs have faith in our we’re going to show up every Friday Oct. 3 North Pontotoc* I A lanky 6-4, tough to get hands on. offensive line, and I don’t think they night and hopefully get to the point Oct. 10 at Middleton, Tenn. had that last year,” White said. “And I where folks have got to line up and Oct. 17 at Booneville* think our offensive line has a lot more play their ‘A’ game to beat us,” White Oct. 24 Ripley* RB Jacob Vandiver, Jr. faith in our running backs.” said. “Because we’re going to bring Oct. 31 at Corinth* I Rushed 70 times for 415 yards (5.9 ypc). That’s good, because Alcorn Central ours.” *–Division 1-3A game Crossroads Rehabilitation Services,Inc. 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104 Crystal Plaza 3437 Tupelo Commons Ste.102 710 City Avenue North New Albany,MS 38652 Between Lowes and Malco Theater Ripley,MS 38663 534-4445 (phone) Tupelo,MS 38804 837-6060 (phone) 534-9449 (fax) 680-3200 (phone) 837-4060 (fax) 680-5090 (fax) Chad Brown,PT Chan Brown,PT Trey Wicker,PT Top Row: Jeremy Dorrough,ATC; Mandy Martin,ATC Ben Coker,PT Kevin Park,OTR/L,CHT Jed Thorderson,PT B.J.Doler,PT/ATC Bottom Row: Ben Coker,PT; Chad Brown,PT; Kevin Park,OTR/L,CHT; Trey Wicker,PT Mandy Martin,ATC Amy Nichols,PTA Kim Cutberth,PTA Jeremy Dorrough,ATC Laurie Patterson,PTA NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 33H BOONEVILLE scouting report More wins coming? BREAKDOWN I Great core of skill people on offense, I Drewry could add a lot to his this season in the likes of senior An- but defense perhaps key for good playoff drew Southward and juniors Bo run. … RBs Bo Brown, Andrew South- record total with bevy of talent back. Brown and Jerion Jones. ward provide scary, balanced attack. … Jones stepped into the starting WR Drew Cristo small (5-7) but hard to BY DAVID WHEELER quarterback role early last season as a pin down. … Booneville has missed play- Daily Journal sophomore and was 6-3 during that offs only once since 1993. … Coach Jim What to say about the Booneville span. Brown and Southward not only Drewry, 77, has battled through health Blue Devils for the 2008 season? possess complementary running troubles, shows no signs of slowing down. Let’s get the always looming history skills, but both have good hands for QB Jerion Jones out of the way. catching passes. Head coach Jim Drewry has 327 vic- “Already as a junior, Brown is getting 5-year glance, wins tories in his 48-year career, making THOMAS WELLS all types of feelers from Division I col- 13 him the all-time winningest high leges,” Drewry said. “And not only school coach in Mississippi. That in- does Jones throw the ball well, he is a 10 8 blue devils fast facts cludes three state championships, good runner.” 7 6 I Division: 1-3A and four times as runner-up. Junior Drew Cristo is another I 2007 record: 6-5, reached first round of playoffs Whew. weapon for Jones at wide receiver, and I Coach: Jim Drewry (19th season) All that said, the Booneville squad senior A.J. Stubbs will play a key lead- about to hit the field looks to add I Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense ership role in developing Booneville’s ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 more wins to those historic numbers. offensive line. At the forefront of the Devils should While the Devils’ offense appears to be their offense, which has many of its be potent, the defense needs to play at SCHEDULE 3 players to watch key parts returning from last season’s a high level as well. Aug. 28 at Baldwyn playoff qualifier. Brown and Stubbs will be some of Sept. 5 at Nettleton RB/LB Bo Brown, Jr. Sept. 12 Saltillo I “We’ve got all our skill people re- the two-players Drewry will utilize, as Rushed for 782 yards; made 70 tackles, 4 sacks. turning from last year,” Drewry said. will junior lineman Ben Tidwell. Sept. 19 Corinth* “If we have some of our offensive line- “Defensively, it will depend on how Sept. 26 at Mooreville* QB Jerion Jones, Jr. men come through, we’ll have one of well we fill positions of players we lost Oct. 3 Kossuth* I Dual threat was 6-3 as a starter. our best ball clubs. from last year,” Drewry said. “And how Oct. 10 at North Pontotoc* “The biggest thing for our offense is the returning starters improve. Oct. 17 Alcorn Central* for our skill people to have time.” “Our defense has got to improve Oct. 24 at Tishomingo Co. RB Andrew Southward, Sr. Drewry sees an experienced trio of Oct. 31 at Ripley* I from last year for us to have a good Nifty runner gained team-high 788 yards. skill people to throw at oppositions club.” *–Division 1-3A game scouting report Aggies will come quickly KOSSUTH BREAKDOWN I Speed being counted on to serve the Aggies well, with senior RB Matt Cook I Kossuth will be small, but will bank well, as Gray will providing proven scoring ability.… Two on added swiftness and RB Cook. have some split of Aggies’ best offensive linemen, Blaine backfield and veer looks in the play- Barnes and Justin Glissen, lost to grad- BY DAVID WHEELER book. uation. … Aggies sacrificing size for Daily Journal (Matt Cook’s) speed, which should help them keep up But that should Will the 2008 edition of the Kossuth not effect the pro- in Division 1-3A. … Aggies allowed 36.3 Aggies be considered one of the competitiveness ppg over final four games of 2007. ductiveness of quickest squads ever at the school? senior running carries over to Or just undersized? back Matt Cook the team.” RB Matt Cook Tough question, and the answer (5-foot-10, 185 5-year glance, wins Scott Gray could determine just how successful pounds), a spirit- “ DESTE LEE Scott Gray’s squad is. ed runner who Kossuth coach With smaller but quicker players to gained 1,294 yards 9 work with, Gray seems to have com- 7 last year. Speedy aggies fast facts mitted to utilizing that speed to the junior Slater Smith will take some 5 I Division: 1-3A Aggies’ advantage, perhaps with the pressure off Cook in the backfield. 3 I 2 biggest impact on defense. “Cook is such a competitor,” Gray 2007 record: 5-6, reached first round of playoffs “Right now, we’re better on defense, I Coach: Scott Gray (5th year) said. “And his competitiveness carries I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 with more speed to the ball than over to the team.” Returning starters: 5 offense, 5 defense usual,” said Gray, who began the pre- Junior Wesley Box steps into the key SCHEDULE season with 54 players out for the role of quarterback, and Wilbanks will Aug. 29 at Southaven team. “Depth is our only problem, show his valuable versatility to the Ag- 3 players to watch Sept. 5 Center Hill and we’ve got to have some people gies with his role as flanker. As on de- Sept. 12 Belmont step up.” fense, Cooper will be an anchor of the RB Matt Cook, Sr. Sept. 19 at North Pontotoc* An aggressive defensive backfield offensive line. I Led Aggies with 1,294 yards, 12 TDs. Sept. 26 Alcorn Central* will lead the charge to the football, “We really have very little experi- Oct. 3 at Booneville* with seniors Reece Wilbanks and Matt ence,” Gray said. “We must stay QB Wesley Box, Jr. Oct. 10 Ripley* Meeks at the head of the pack. Middle healthy and get in shape. I First-year starter will direct new-look offense. Oct. 17 at Corinth* linebacker Kyle Cooper will anchor “These kids are very coachable, and Oct. 24 Mooreville* the interior of the defense. I think they are going to be in every Oct. 31 at Arlington,Tenn. Perhaps that team speed has given game. The way they play together is ML/OG Kyle Cooper, Sr., *–Division 1-3A game the Aggies a new offensive look as going to help them in the long run.” I Stands 6-1, 220, will anchor both lines. PAGE 34H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL MOOREVILLE scouting report Riding the front lines BREAKDOWN I The health of strong-armed sopho- I With loss of skill players,Troopers more QB Drew Wheeler could be key will lean heavily on those in trenches. “All of our experi- early as Troopers look for new people on ence is up front. offense who can score. … Narrowly BY DAVID WHEELER missed playoffs last year with 34-33 loss Daily Journal We’ll put the pres- to North Pontotoc in season finale. … Kevin Austin had a nice enough sure on them.’’ Hasn’t made postseason since 2001, 2007 campaign as the first-year head Kevin Austin and never in 3A. … Offense held to seven points or less four times last season. coach of the Mooreville Troopers, Mooreville coach posting a 5-5 record. DE Cameron Webb But what about his second season? 5-year glance, wins “Last year, I didn’t know what to ex- sophomore has been rehabbing from DESTE LEE pect,” Austin said. “This season, it will a leg injury for most of the preseason. take time for the players to grow up.” Sophomore Gary Johnson is another troopers fast facts A key loss of skill players – like quar- option at quarterback, terback Bradley Alred and running 6 Senior Jonathan Yant and freshman 5 I Division: 1-3A 44 back Jimmy Young – means Austin’s Devontae Williams will get the nod at 3 I 2007 record: 5-5, no playoffs task will be tough enough, not even I running back, while junior Benton Witt Coach: Kevin Austin (2nd year) counting the rigors of the Troopers’ looks for the tough yards at fullback. I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 6 offense, 4 defense Class 3A schedule. “We need someone to step up and On offense, there are big holes to fill want the ball,” Austin said. in the backfield, but the new skill play- Mooreville will also be strong on the SCHEDULE 3 players to watch ers should benefit from some solid line on defense, with Whitmon, Slay, Aug. 29 at Belmont play and experience on the line. That and Patton likely going both ways. Sept. 5 Mantachie OL/LB Brayden Whitmon, Sr. is where seniors Brayden Whitmon, Yant will also be a two-way player at Sept. 12 Walnut I Coach Kevin Austin calls him “smartest kid on the team.” Mason Slay, Chris Patton, and Steven linebacker. Sept. 19 at Alcorn Central* Lentz will lead the way. “Defensively, we’re stronger on the Sept. 26 Booneville* RB/LB Jonathan Yant, Sr. “All of our experience is up front on line, and our front eight are pretty Oct. 3 at Ripley* I Moved from FB to WB in double wing offense. offense,” Austin said. “We’ll put the strong,” Austin said. “We’ll have a Oct. 10 Corinth* pressure on them, and we’ll go as far brand new defensive backfield, Oct. 17 at Saltillo as they take us.” though we did rotate a lot of people Oct. 24 at Kossuth* QB Drew Wheeler, So. Austin is looking to pencil in Drew back there last year, so some of these Oct. 31 North Pontotoc* I Likely out until second week with knee injury. Wheeler at quarterback, though the guys have some playing time.” *–Division 1-3A game Serving Northeast Mississippifor 27 Y ears 367 NORTH GLOSTER STREET, TUPELO, MISSISSIPPI 662-844-4530 Phar macy Dept. e-mail [email protected] FAX: 662-844-4537

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•Bio-Identical Hor mone Replacement Therapy •Customized COMPOUNDING V eterinary Compounds PHARMACY •Transder mals, Jim Bain,RPh Cr eams &Lotions Crissy Kyle,CPhT PAGE 36H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL NORTH PONTOTOC scouting report Vikings look to move up BREAKDOWN I Strong 2007 finish, encouraging dence carried over into the spring and I North Pontotoc had 95 percent par- summer months. ticipation in the summer workout pro- offseason beget high expectations. “I knew the mindset was different gram. … Coach Cliff Dew calls WR/DB during the summer workouts,” Dew Wes Mounce the spirited leader on the BY GREGG ELLIS said. “We had 95 percent participa- team. … If there’s one player that’s likely Daily Journal tion. That’s almost unheard of.” to never come off the field, it’s Mounce. Last year was what Cliff Dew re- That high level of involvement, he ...As for the most versatile player, Dew ferred to as a rebuilding season. admitted, got the entire coaching staff said that distinction belongs to Miles His North Pontotoc players were excited about the upcoming season. Synder. young and inexperienced, and he Of course, it also helps having a QB Ivan Perez knew his team would take a consider- quarterback with the talents of Ivan able hit on the scoreboard. Perez back. 5-year glance, wins And as it turned out, that was in- TIM TUTOR/PONTOTOC PROGRESS In North Pontotoc’s spread scheme, deed the case as the Vikings went 3-7. Perez rushed for 1,200 yards and 17 In the spring, though, the second- touchdowns while passing for anoth- 9 vikings fast facts year coach knew the mindset had to er 1,000 yards last season. 6 I change. Also back is top receiver Wes Division: 1-3A The rebuilding, he pointed out, was I 2007 record: 3-7, no playoffs Mounce (21 catches, 383 yards). 3 I over. Experience was no longer an “We don’t have the big, bruising of- 1 1 Coach: Cliff Dew (2nd year) issue, and he embraced a roster laden I Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense fensive lineman,” Dew said. “So, we’ve ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 with veterans. got to spread the defense out to create “You can only build for so long,” he seams. As I always say, we don’t have said. “Eventually, you have to start win- the best talent by any means, but we SCHEDULE 3 players to watch ning. I told our team this is our year to got a bunch of kids who go out and Aug. 29 Mantachie step up and be competitive and put give everything they’ve got.” Sept. 5 Hatley WR/DB Wes Mounce, Sr. ourselves in position for the playoffs.” Sept. 12 at South Pontotoc I Anchoring the line is junior tackle Led the Viking with 21 catches. Dew is confident he has the players Storm Weeks. The front five must pro- Sept. 19 Kossuth* to do just that. tect Perez and open holes for running Sept. 26 at Walnut QB Ivan Perez, Sr. He saw it last year in the season fi- backs Aries Standfield, Joe Robbins Oct. 3 at Alcorn Central* I Rushed for 1,200 yards, threw for another 1,000. nale against Mooreville, a game the and Colton Robbins. Oct. 10 Booneville* Vikings won. Although the victory Defensively, Dew’s just as confident Oct. 17 at Ripley* didn’t propel them into the playoffs, it with the return of defensive back Cage Oct. 24 Corinth* OL Storm Weeks, Jr. kept Mooreville out and offered a Mills, tackle Bernard Strong and mid- Oct. 31 at Mooreville* I Anchor of the offensive line. major dose of confidence. That confi- dle linebacker Bernard Strong. *–Division 1-3A game Ar e Y ou Letushelp make Ready? tailgating easy. A t The G e t I t R e b e l !

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1101 W est Main T upelo,MS 842-3774 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 37 AMORY Otey takes over in Amory scouting report BREAKDOWN I One big loss was K Brett Spencer,a I Senior QB must fill big shoes left tangibles.” very accurate weapon who will be re- behind by Richard McFadden. Otey will have his placed by soccer specialist Mark Creek- share of offense to more. … The Panthers hope this is the work with. BY BRANDON SPECK season senior RB Frank Pruitt over- Evan Lackey is a do- Monroe Journal comes his turnover troubles and has a it-all senior who will breakout year. … Amory has another bru- AMORY – The Amory Panthers will play special teams, look a lot different without three-year tal schedule, featuring Tupelo, Shannon back and receiver, and and New Hope early on. starter Richard McFadden under cen- that’s just on offense. ter in 2008. RB Frank Pruitt Frank Pruitt is making BYRD McFadden, a bruising runner now his final appearance 5-year glance, wins battling for the same job at Itawamba in the backfield, and receivers Chris C. TODD SHERMAN Community College, was the most re- Fuse and Lashad White make big tar- cent big name associated with tradi- gets, while Jordan Huffman may be 9 panthers fast facts tion-rich Amory. the most overlooked of the corp. 8 Stephen Otey will try and make his 7 I Division: 2-3A name a household one in 2008. 4 I 2007 record: 3-8, reached first round of playoffs Vet Anderson paces defense 3 A senior taking over the full-time Defensively, Brandon Anderson is I Head coach: Pat Byrd (9th year) starter role, Otey gave Panther fans a I Returning starters: 5 offense, 3 defense no new name at linebacker. Byrd said ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 taste of what it would be like when he the 235-pound senior is unquestion- started the first round of the playoffs ably the leader of his defense. against Ripley last season, a near “Without a shadow of a doubt, he is SCHEDULE 3 players to watch upset of the then-undefeated Tigers. the bell cow of the defense,” Byrd said. Aug. 29 at Itawamba AHS Amory coach Pat Byrd said while “He looks a little quicker, and he’s Sept. 5 New Hope QB Stephen Otey, Sr. McFadden will be missed, Otey brings Sept. 12 Tupelo I moving better and is able to cover Former WR in first year as full-time QB. a different aspect to his team. from tackle to tackle.” Sept. 19 at Shannon “Stephen is a different style quarter- One new face on the offensive line is Sept. 26 at Winona* LB Brandon Anderson, Sr. back,” Byrd said. “He sees the field. He 6-foot junior Nathan Kendrick, whose Oct. 3 Nettleton* I Moving from strong side to middle, can cover ground. distributes the ball. He makes good dad joined the coaching staff this sea- Oct. 10 Houston* decisions. What you lose as far as run- son. Kendrick started for Tupelo last Oct. 17 at South Pontotoc* ning ability – which he’s an adequate season as a sophomore is expected to Oct. 24 Louisville* RB/WR Evan Lackey, Sr. runner and he’ll fool people with that make an impact at guard and on the Oct. 31 at Aberdeen* I Will get touches in a variety of ways, including kick return. –I think you’re going to gain other in- defensive front. *–Division 2-3A game scouting report HOUSTON BREAKDOWN Juggling quarterbacks I Hilltoppers need to settle on a start- I Whichever one’s not taking snaps fensive guard Corey Voyles, who was ing QB prior to season opener. … De- moved to fullback in the spring, and fense should be improved, and it needs will be contributing elsewhere. wide receiver Malcom Hogan, an all- to be with tough division neighbors like division outside linebacker last sea- BY GENE PHELPS Aberdeen, Louisville and Winona on the son. Daily Journal same block. … Offense averaged 16 ppg The talented Hogan will also return last season. … Houston has never won a Houston will definitely play two kicks. playoff game in five tries. … Was in play- quarterbacks this season – one under “Our running game’s starting to get off hunt until final game of last season. center and the other somewhere else better,” Boyer said, noting Voyles’ on the field. move to the backfield. “We’ve got to be OL Cole Eldridge 5-year glance, wins Jacob Long, a senior, and Shawn more physical and help take pressure Wright, a junior, entered preseason off our defense.” drills locked in a battle for the starting Reggie Buchannan and Will Kirby LISA VOYLES/CHICKASAW JOURNAL quarterback job. are both slated for tailback duty. They came out of spring practice so close, head coach Buz Boyer wanted hilltoppers fast facts 6 Wright: Two-way force I 4 to wait until August to make the final Up front, 255-pound Jarvis Wright Division: 2-3A 3 I 2 2 call. returns at tackle. He’s also be the 2007 record: 2-8, no playoffs Either way, both will play. I Coach: Buz Boyer (2nd year) starter at noseguard on defense, I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 “They’re both good athletes,” said where he has the potential to be a Returning starters: 7 offense, 8 defense Boyer, who begins his second season force. SCHEDULE at his alma mater after seven prior Voyles and Hogan will also see line- Aug. 29 Eupora years as a Tupelo assistant. “They both backer duty on defense, an area where 3 players to watch Sept. 5 Kosciusko have good minds for the game. The Boyer sees improvement. Sept. 12 at Itawamba AHS starter will be the one who steps up “Our defense got better as the year WR/OLB Malcom Hogan, Sr. Sept. 19 South Pontotoc* and takes control.” went on,” he said. “It carried over to I Returning all-division player on defense. Sept. 26 at Louisville* Boyer notes that the player not at the spring. We’re tackling better and Oct. 3 Aberdeen* quarterback will line up at wide re- have improved running to the ball. FB/LB Corey Voyles, Sr. Oct. 10 at Amory* ceiver and in the secondary. “I expect us to be much better on I Started at offensive guard last season. Oct. 17 Winona* “They will be on the field ... some- that side of the ball.” Oct. 24 at Nettleton* where,” he added. Jacob Long will handle the punting, Oct. 31 at New Hope Two of the Hilltoppers’ weapons on field goal and extra point chores. The NG/OT Jarvis Wright, Sr. *–Division 2-3A game offense this season will be former of- job of kicking off is up for grabs. I Two-way starter expected to key defense. PAGE 38H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL NETTLETON Comings and goings scouting report BREAKDOWN I After a season at South Pontotoc, Jack I Tigers lose all-star quarterback, Lee–Monroe County line. Clark is back at Nettleton, where he but they welcome back an old friend. How much offense the Tigers will called the plays in the 2006 title game produce will have to be determined, run. … Tiger defense gave up more than but Clark’s skill guys will rotate in and BY BRANDON SPECK 40 points four times last season, the out just as they did two years ago. Monroe Journal same number of times it scored at least “It’s a resemblance because we’re NETTLETON – No quarterback in 40. … Brandon Jamison may be one of going to rotate five new guys in every Northeast Mississippi will envy the area’s most overlooked receivers and may five plays,” Clark said. “We were able to job of Anthony Franklin. also have the team’s best hands. do that two years ago. We’ve been able WR Jamal Farr The junior is taking over behind center for Jami Boland, one of the to do that in the spring. If all of them 5-year glance, wins stay out, that could resemble it a lot.” most prolific quarterbacks the area 14 ADAM GORE/MONITOR-HERALD has seen in quite some time. Then it was names like Word, Cole, All Boland did the past two seasons Dixon and Hadley. Now it’s names like was throw for 5, 555 yards and 73 Smith, Gates, Jamison and Seymour. tigers fast facts 7 touchdowns. His 42 in 2006 tied the 6 I Division: 2-3A Disciplined defense 4 I state record. Franklin was paying 2007 record: 6-4, no playoffs close attention. Nettleton finished a game out of the I 1 Head coach: Jack Clark (1st year) “He got to sit around and watch playoffs in 2007, in large part due to a I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 5 offense, 9 defense Jami the last two years, so I think that’s young defense that couldn’t help its really helped him a lot mentally,” Net- high-scoring offense outscore oppo- tleton coach Jack Clark said. “He’s got nents. That defense is back with a year SCHEDULE 3 players to watch a good strong arm, but he’s going to go under its belt. Aug. 28 Hatley# through some growing pains just like “All those kids were sophomores,” Sept. 5 Booneville QB Anthony Franklin, Jr. Jami did. I don’t know if he’ll put up Clark said. “They’re juniors now, and Sept. 12 at Mantachie I Strong-armed thrower taking over for prolific Jami Boland. the kind of numbers Jami did, but I they’re all still playing. In the spring, I Sept. 19 at Louisville* wouldn’t say he wouldn’t either.” was really impressed with them. They Sept. 26 Aberdeen* RB Darius Smith, Sr. Clark is another new face, sort of. played hard and seemed to be a little Oct. 3 at Amory* I A fourth-year starter at different positions. He left his offensive coordinator role more disciplined than what they were Oct. 10 Winona* in Nettleton after calling the plays that last year. Oct. 17 at Caledonia led the Tigers to the 2006 state final. “I think they’re going to grow up, Oct. 24 Houston* TE/LB Dale Seymour, Sr. After a season as the head coach at and the next two years we could be Oct. 31 at South Pontotoc* I Stands 6-foot-5, was 2007 team defensive MVP. South Pontotoc, Clark is back on the pretty decent on defense.” *–Division 2-3A game; #–Thursday NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 39H SOUTH PONTOTOC scouting report Bray invites challenge BREAKDOWN I I Of the 40 players on the roster, only A winner at Vardaman, new coach “But I’m realistic, too. We’ve got to 15 were on the team a year ago. ... New tries to revive struggling Cougars. play well and get better each week. coach Mark Bray has a streak on the And some of our young players have line – he’s made the playoffs 17 straight to grow up in a hurry.” BY GREGG ELLIS years, all at Vardaman. … Incumbent QB For Bray's spread scheme, it all Daily Journal David Bowen left the team to focus on starts with the quarterback. And for baseball. … Cougars yielded 31.4 ppg Mark Bray will be the first to say he the Cougars, that’s sophomore Wesley was ready for a new challenge. Even if last season, while scoring 17.5 ppg. … Barefield. Have never won a playoff game. it meant stepping out of his comfort Despite his youth and inexperience, zone. WR/DB Matthew Perry Bray said that hasn’t been a deterrent. So after 23 years of overseeing the So far, he notes, Barefield has done 5-year glance, wins Vardaman program and turning the everything that's been asked of him. TIM TUTOR/PONTOTOC PROGRESS Rams into a consistent contender, he “It’s unusual to see a 10th-grader be resigned and turned his focus toward a leader and take charge of the hud- cougars fast facts South Pontotoc. dle,” Bray said. “But that’s what he has “Change can be refreshing,” he said. 6 I done.” 5 5 5 Division: 2-3A “And this comes at the right time for At Barefield's disposal are two tal- I 2007 record: 1-9, no playoffs me. This is something different for I ented receivers Bray said are blessed 1 Coach: Mark Bray (1st year) me, and I knew it needed to happen with speed and great hands – I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 1 offense, 3 defense before it happened.” Matthew Berry and Blake Pannell. Call it a win-win for both parties. And when it comes to running, he While Bray gets the challenge he has two shifty and speedy backs in SCHEDULE 3 players to watch longed for, the Cougars get a proven Montay Love and Caylen Austin. Aug. 29 at Pontotoc coach that’s excited about the oppor- Yet the key, Bray points out, could Sept. 5 Hamilton QB Wesley Barefield, So. tunity to rebuild. be up front in the trenches with his Sept. 12 North Pontotoc I Takes over after senior David Bowen left team. And rebuilding is indeed the task at guards. Sept. 19 at Houston* hand for Bray and his staff. “Ben Robinson and Bryer Baughn Sept. 26 at Mantachie WR/DB Matthew Berry, So. South Pontotoc, which finished a have been leaders for us since the first Oct. 3 Louisville* I One of faster players on the team. disappointing 1-9 a year ago, returns day,” he said. “I’ve really been pleased Oct. 10 at Aberdeen* just four starters on both sides of the with these two guys." Oct. 17 Amory* football. Bray said his defense will rely heav- Oct. 24 at Winona* WR/DB Blake Pannell, Sr. “We're about as young as you can ily on experienced senior ends Chase Oct. 31 Nettleton* I Both athletic and versatile. get,” he said. “But I’m real optimistic. Tidmore and Robert Stokes. *–Division 2-3A game scouting report HOLLY SPRINGS BREAKDOWN Tough road back I Seniors Datron Johnson and Chris Scales, plus sophomore Marquaveus I Hawks will try to find way back to seasons until falling short last year. Walton, will replace departed RB Jay “We want it real bad,” Oliver said. Isom. … Senior TE/FB Sam Hawkins, a playoffs without best ball carrier. converted tackle, is a fourth-year starter. Bring the pressure … Big offensive line anchored by senior BY BRAD LOCKE Daily Journal To get there, the defense must also center/guard Bobby Barksdale (6-2, perform over its head. Holly Springs was hoping to take a 285). … Hawks played first six games of Eight starters return on that side. step in the right direction this season. 2007 on road as new field was finished. Brown employs a 3-4 look, with the It’s going to be tougher than originally focus on how much pressure the line- thought. backers can create. QB Demetri Oliver 5-year glance, wins With starting senior tailback Jay Senior Jamorris Holtz (6-foot-3, 185 Isom leaving the team for personal pounds) leads the group from his out- BARRY BURLESON/SOUTH-REPORTER reasons the first week of practice, the side spot. pressure quickly found the shoulders All of the secondary returns, giving of quarterback Demetri Oliver. The hawks fast facts 6 Brown confidence to play single cov- 5 junior started in 2007, passing for 11 I 4 4 4 erage, thus allowing the linebackers to Division: 3-3A touchdowns and running for four chase the ball. I 2007 record: 4-6, no playoffs more. “Either we’re going to win or lose I Coach: Clifford Brown (4th year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Oliver said he’s improved his accu- doing that,” he said. “We tell our kids I Returning starters: 7 offense, 8 defense racy, foot speed and reading coverage. we’ve got to hang our hats on some- SCHEDULE We’ll soon find out how much. thing.” Aug. 29 at Cordova (Tenn.) “He went through some growing Prior to Isom’s departure, Brown 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Water Valley pains (last year), and he’s probably was asked about getting back to the Sept. 12 Southaven going to go through some more,” head playoffs and going past the first OL/DL Bobby Barksdale, Sr. Sept. 19 North Panola* coach Clifford Brown said. “He’s hope- round, the latter of which has hap- I Solid blocker,aggressive defender with a high motor. Sept. 26 at Independence* fully a little bit mentally tougher. Ma- pened once. Oct. 3 at Senatobia* turity-wise, we hope he’s a better “We’ve been scratching at the door,” WR/DB Daryl Kinkle, Sr. Oct. 10 Rosa Fort* leader as far as executing the offense he said. “Seems like every time some- I Made 7 INTs on defense; scored 7 TDs on offense. Oct. 17 Broad Street with few mistakes.” thing goes well for us, two things put Oct. 24 at Byhalia* With less room for error, the Hawks’ us back.” Oct. 31 Lewisburg* playoff hopes appear dimmer. They One thing could more than do the QB Demetri Oliver, Jr. *–Division 3-3A game made the postseason four straight job. I Accounted for 15 TDs – 11 passing, 4 rushing. PAGE 40H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL BALDWYN scouting report Number crunch BREAKDOWN I While the Bearcats still have plenty of I Depth problems might finally be his experience in the Baldwyn system talent, more two-way play will make con- an issue for traditionally strong ’Cats. will make the transition to starter not ditioning a key. … Heavy on skill players, as difficult. but thin up front on offense. … QB Koty “He’s been a backup for a couple of BY DAVID WHEELER King is a first-year starter, but has run Daily Journal years, but he throws the ball well,” Baldwyn schemes since seventh grade. … Dillinger said. “I think he’s ready to Depth is usually a problem for small Baldwyn has won division six of last step up, and he does a good job of schools, but not so in previous sea- seven seasons. … Bearcats have won 10 running things.” sons for the Baldwyn Bearcats. or more games five times since 2001. WR Dorian Berry The odds might have caught up to 10th-year head coach Jimmy Dillinger Thinned red-and-blue line 5-year glance, wins and his 2008 Bearcats, as lack of depth Besides handing the ball off to Shel- DESTE LEE ley, King will also have a nice target to might be an issue. 12 11 That is not to say that Baldwyn does throw to in 6-foot-4 senior Dorian 10 bearcats fast facts not have its usual crop of front-line Berry. 8 players. “We have a lot a returning skill peo- I Division: 1-2A “Our success will depend on how ple, but we lost all of our line,” 3 I 2007 record: 10-3, reached third round of playoffs well people perform both ways,” Dillinger said. “This will be a chal- I Coach: Jimmy Dillinger (10th year) Dillinger said. “And to find people to lenge for the team.” I Returning starters: 5 offense, 7 defense back them up.” Baldwyn’s potential lack of depth ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Senior fullback Xzadrian Shelley might impact its defense a bit more, has been a successful performer for though Dillinger still has some nice SCHEDULE 3 players to watch the Bearcats the past two seasons, leadership in place. Aug. 28 Booneville# gaining more than 1,000 yards each of Junior linebacker Devin Lindsey Sept. 5 at Saltillo FB Xzadrian Shelley, Sr. those years. will be a key for the Baldwyn defense, Sept. 12 New Albany I Rushed for 1,210 yards – 10.9 yards per carry – 13 TDs. “He has been a big part of our of- while senior linebacker Jahmai Sept. 19 at Bruce fense the past two seasons,” Dillinger Hodges and senior end Casey Sept. 26 Eupora WR/SS Dorian Berry, Sr. said. “We’re hoping for another good Copeland will provide leadership, Oct. 3 at Mantachie* I Made 39 catches for 857 yards, 11 TDs; made 6 INTs. year from him.” both having been starters since their Oct. 10 Belmont* Shelley’s presence should make the freshman year. Oct. 17 at Hamilton* job of first-year starting quarterback “Conditioning on defense will be Oct. 24 Hatley* LB Devin Lindsey,Sr. Koty King a bit easier. And while this big,” Dillinger said. “How players han- Oct. 31 at Walnut* I Trying to build on breakout 2007 season. will be the senior’s first year to start, dle going both ways will be important.” *–Division 1-2A game; #–Thursday DOSSETT BIG 4 GO REBELS! GO DAWGS! DDOOSSSSEETTTT BBIIGG 44 AANNDD CCOOLLLLEEGGEE FFOOOOTTBBAALLLL......

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628 SOUTH GLOSTER • TUPELO • 842-4162 • www.dossettbig4.com NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 41H BELMONT scouting report Will work for wins BREAKDOWN I Sophomore RB Dustin Poole got a I Downturn in 2007 largely due to “Does it matter?” Moody asks. handful of starts last season. … New- It had better. comer to offensive line is junior Bradley youth, but that’s no excuse this year. That line will be protecting a first- Smith. … Junior OL Caleb Moody is year starter at quarterback, sopho- BY BRAD LOCKE cousin of head coach Kerry Moody.… more Cody Parham. He’ll get the Daily Journal Defense will show both five-man and chance to throw the ball, but Bel- four-man fronts. … Moody is 21-29 at Youth was not served at Belmont mont’s Wing-T approach will need Belmont, 8-21 over past three seasons. last year, but maybe some hard off- solid play from running backs Gage … Cardinals scored 16.3 ppg last year. season work will bring the Cardinals Smith, a junior, and Dustin Poole, a back to the playoffs. WR John Harrison sophomore. Last season, a young team finished 5-year glance, wins 1-8 and missed the postseason for the SHELBY DANIEL/SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL first time in six years. Sixth-year head Sophs populate D-line coach Kerry Moody instituted a more The linemen bear an equally heavy demanding offseason program, and load on defense. Four starters return cardinals fast facts 7 7 he’s anticipating quick dividends. there, but three are sophomores. I Division: 1-2A “They’ve put in a hard summer. I “Offensive and defensive lines, 4 I 2007 record: 1-8, no playoffs that’s what we’ve got to hold and an- 3 think we’re ready to redeem our- 1 I Coach: Kerry Moody (6th year) selves,” Moody said. chor down to win football games,” I Returning starters: 9 offense, 9 defense One player to blossom since last Moody said. “Those guys have a lot of ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 season is senior offensive guard and responsibility on their shoulders to linebacker Kyle Bennett. A third-year make it work.” SCHEDULE 3 players to watch starter, the 6-foot-3, 245-pounder Division 1-2A shouldn’t be quite as Aug. 29 Mooreville made noticeable progress both men- tough to navigate as it was last year, Sept. 5 at Tishomingo Co. OL/LB Kyle Bennett, Sr. tally and physically. but Moody takes nothing for granted. Sept. 12 at Kossuth I Expected to lead offensive line, be run-stopper on D. In April, he placed third in the 242- Nor do his players, as evidenced by Sept. 19 Ackerman pound division at the Class 2A state their willingness to work a little hard- Sept. 26 Red Bay, Ala. RB/LB Gage Smith, Jr. powerlifting championships. er. Oct. 3 Hamilton* I Led Cardinals in rushing last season. “He’s got good feet for his size, can “They’ve been fairly self-motivat- Oct. 10 at Baldwyn* run well,” Moody said. ed,” Moody said. “They’re just like Oct. 17 Walnut* Bennett anchors a line that returns everybody else, you’ve got to push Oct. 24 at Mantachie* OL/DL Zach Smith, Jr. four starters and averages 230 them. They’ve been very acceptive of Oct. 31 at Hatley* I Stands 5-10, 250; dependable and moves well. pounds. it.” *–Division 1-2A game scouting report HAMILTON BREAKDOWN Rising Lions face tests I Coach Ray Weeks called this group the most overall talented team he's had I Two QBs vie to lead team; winner reach his expect- at Hamilton. … Schedule features two will hand off often to Troupe. ed potential, Thursday games – season opener at Cale- Weeks is hoping this is his time. donia and Division 1-2A opener against BY BRANDON SPECK “I’ve talked to Hatley, but Lions get division champ Monroe Journal him about it,” (It’s) the most Baldwyn at home. … FB Cody Holloway HAMILTON – If the first three weeks Weeks said. “We’re could be a pleasant surprise, reliever for of Hamilton’s 2008 schedule doesn’t overall talented expecting this to feature back Latedrick Troupe. make the Lions a better football team, be his breakout group we’ve they will have successfully thwarted season.” RB Latedrick Troupe the saying that playing tough teams had since I’ve 5-year glance, wins Offensively and makes you better. defensively, the been here.” Coach Ray Weeks’ Lions will open “ BRANDON SPECK/MONROE JOURNAL losses of quarter- Ray Weeks the season at Class 4A Caledonia be- back/defensive Hamilton coach fore going to 3A South Pontotoc and back Diante But- lions fast facts 7 hosting 3A and Monroe County 5 ler and running I 4 neighbor Aberdeen. Division: 1-2A 3 back/linebacker Travis Frembgen are I The Lions will be attempting the 2007 record: 4-7, reached first round of playoffs 1 the biggest holes to fill. I feat with a new quarterback, a run- Head coach: Ray Weeks (5th year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Weeks has high praise for the guys I Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense ning back looking to hit his stride and trying to fill those and other missing two receivers who know how to play spots, though. SCHEDULE pitch and catch. “It’s a very talented group; probably, Aug. 28 at Caledonia# Weeks has been especially pleased I think, the most overall talented 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at South Pontotoc with his guys as soon as they strapped group we’ve had since I’ve been here,” Sept. 12 Aberdeen on the pads. QB Ethan Dahlem, Sr. he said. “We’re excited about it.” I Sept. 18 Hatley*# “Practice has been going well,” Under center, Weeks said Ethan In heated battle for starting job with Chase Reeves. Sept. 26 at Ackerman Weeks said. “We put the pads on and Dahlem and Chase Reeves have a Oct. 3 at Belmont* had a real good practice. The kids healthy battle brewing. WR Kevin McCartney, Jr. Oct. 10 Richton were enthusiastic and got after each “Right now it’s kind of hard to deter- I A speedy two-year starter at wideout. Oct. 17 Baldwyn* other.” mine who’s ahead and who’s behind,” Oct. 24 at Walnut* Behind the quarterback battle is he said. “They’ve pushed each other. Oct. 31 Mantachie* junior running back Latedrick Troupe. They help each other out, but it’s a OL Jonathan Baucom, Sr. *–Division 1-2A game; #–Thursday After spending two seasons trying to pretty good battle going on.” I Three-year starter will anchor offensive line. PAGE 42H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL HATLEY scouting report Youngsters get a shot BREAKDOWN I Hatley faces three Monroe County op- I After loss of QB Renfro to injury, what I would if I ponents – Smithville, Nettleton and had a team of 20,” Hamilton – all on Thursday nights. … only one senior remains on squad. Brooks said. “The Hatley’s last winning season was a 6-5 thing that’s got to record in 1997. … Tigers have only one BY BRANDON SPECK happen is that win over the past three seasons. … The Monroe Journal junior class, We have to Tigers’ 22-man roster features only one HATLEY – When Hatley coach Jeff they’ve just got to set some goals senior and seven juniors. … Hatley is on Brooks talks about having a young step up. What the road for four of its first five weeks. team, he’s serious. Zach can do is be early in the RB/DB Jared Thompson Hatley has one senior, Zach that one that Hawkins. Thanks to a season-ending helps take them season to win.” 5-year glance, wins injury to would-be senior quarterback guys and go with Jeff Brooks BRANDON SPECK/MONROE JOURNAL Luke Renfro, Brooks also has a fresh- “ him.” Hatley coach man under center to start the season. In Renfro, the tigers fast facts Caleb Walters will be a youngster Tigers lost a solid I among youngsters. punter and kicker as well. Division: 1-2A “We’re going to be very young,” I Head coach: Jeff Brooks (4th year) Despite the loss, Brooks said he and 2 I Brooks said, “but Caleb is definitely a his staff have set goals for this team, 1 1 2007 record: 0-10, no playoffs competitor, and that’s something you 0 0 I Returning starters: 4 offense, 4 defense including an early win to boost the ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 definitely want if you’ve got youth confidence level of his club. going in there.” “We have set some goals early in the Depth is an obstacle, too, for a team season to win, not just to see some SCHEDULE 3 players to watch coming off of an 0-10 season. positives, but to win,” he said. Aug. 28 at Nettleton# Hatley had 22 players on the prac- Low numbers have forced Hatley to Sept. 5 at North Pontotoc FB/OLB Collin Walter, Jr. tice field leading up its Thursday Sept. 12 Bruce I steer away from some of the physical- One of seven juniors on a very young team opener at Nettleton. ity Brooks likes to instill, but he hopes Sept. 18 at Hamilton*# Lone senior Hawkins, a wide receiv- his guys will turn it back on when the Sept. 26 at Thrasher RB/LB Cody Taylor, So. er and defensive back, will be expect- lights come on. Oct. 3 Wanut* I Will also serve as backup QB. ed to carry his load, but Brooks won’t “We’ve had to pull off some of the Oct. 9 Smithville# add pressure to his role just because contact more than we usually do,” he Oct. 17 Mantachie* he’s the senior. The seven juniors will said, “but it’s something we had to do. Oct. 24 at Baldwyn* WR/DB Zach Hawkins have to play their roles as well. When you’re giving that 110 percent, Oct. 31 Belmont* I With loss of QB Luke Renfro, Hawkins is now lone senior. “I don't put nothing on him than things are going to bounce your way.” *–Division 1-2A game; #–Thursday scouting report MANTACHIE BREAKDOWN Regrouping again I With little to no experience, the Mus- tangs face a long, uphill climb but I Mustangs turn to newcomers, should still contend for playoff spot in but they do have 11 seniors. Division 1-2A. … Team has 11 seniors. … Entering his 20th season, Mike Hill is BY DAVID WHEELER area’s longest-tenured active coach at Daily Journal one school. He has a 95-98 record. … I’m looking for new faces to shine.” Big schools generally get to reload Mike Hill QB Jeremy Warren is younger brother of after graduation losses. last year’s signal-caller, Malcolm Warren. Small schools, unfortunately, have Mantachie coach to regroup all too often. Coach Mike Hill 5-year glance, wins With only one returning starter on junior tight end Jonathan Rayburn offense and three on defense, head would be key components of any ef- coach Mike Hill and the Mantachie “ C. TODD SHERMAN forts through the air. Mustangs have the uncertain task of Youthful enthusiasm could serve regrouping. the Mustangs’ defense well. mustangs fast facts “We are counting on a lot of youth,” 5 5 “Our strong point will be our flow to I 4 said the veteran coach. “Players will Division: 1-2A 3 the ball on defense,” Hill said. “We’re I have to learn their position, and what 2007 record: 5-5, reached first round of playoffs 0 working on our angles, making sure I Coach: Mike Hill (20th year) it takes to compete in varsity ball.” I ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 So there are lots of new faces and everyone is on the same page.” Returning starters: 1 offense, 3 defense uncertainty to deal with, starting at Warren and Wood will lead the SCHEDULE the high-profile role of quarterback. charge to the ball as defensive backs, Aug. 29 at North Pontotoc Hill has quick and agile junior Jeremy with Rayburn and hard-working jun- 3 players to watch Sept. 5 at Mooreville Warren slated for that job, though sen- ior Jordan Dickinson anchors on the Sept. 12 Nettleton ior Rob Thompson or sophomore outside of the defense at the end posi- TE/DE Jonathan Rayburn, Jr. Sept. 19 Idle Dalton McMillin could see playing tions. I Will be key target as offense looks to air more often. Sept. 26 South Pontotoc time. “I’m looking for new faces to shine,” Oct. 3 Baldwyn* Though historically a running team, Hill said. “We’re going to play with en- QB/DB Jeremy Warren, Jr. Oct. 10 at Walnut* Hill said the Mustangs could go to the thusiasm, and I’ll take the outcome of I Slightly built at 6-0, 155, but brings mobility to position. Oct. 17 at Hatley* air more often than last year, when it the game as long as they give every- Oct. 24 Belmont* achieved close to a 50-50 balance. Se- thing. Oct. 31 at Hamilton* nior wide receiver Michael Wood – the “It’s going to be a challenge this WR/DB Michael Wood, Sr. *–Division 1-2A game only returning offensive starter – and year, but I’m looking forward to it.” I Lone returning starter on offense. NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 43H WALNUT Luster’s turn to shine scouting report BREAKDOWN I Walnut made its first playoff appear- I Senior running back expected Doyle will step in. He ance last season, losing 18-13 to J.Z. played defense as a George in the first round. ... Offense will to lead and perform with Sesma gone. freshman but missed run both spread and I-formation. ... RB last season because Gavin Luster will also line up some at BY BRAD LOCKE of knee surgery. QB. ... Freshman Dominic Steele (5-8, Daily Journal The 6-1, 205- 163) is a promising RB. ... Sophomore When Jacob Sesma graduated and pounder played QB CB Wyatt Huffman is 5-5, 130, nick- moved on to Delta State, Walnut lost in junior high. named “Waterbug.” more than a player. “He’s really untest- It lost its quarterback, a running LB Mark Peterson ed,” Moore said. back, a reciever, a linebacker, and a MOORE 5-year glance, wins kicker. It lost its leader, a five-year But he’ll be sur- THOMAS WELLS starter that never left the field. rounded by seven returning starters, “It’s going to take a lot of people in including three experienced offensive linemen. The biggest is 255-pounder 9 wildcats fast facts different spots to fill that gap,” head 7 coach Timmy Moore said. Will Gunn, a senior. 6 I Division: 1-2A One of those people could do a lot 3 I 2007 record: 9-2, reached first round of playoffs Camburn replaces Sesma on D 2 I to ease the loss. Gavin Luster, a senior, Coach: Timmy Moore (8th year) enters his fifth year as a starter. He Defense is where Sesma’s absence I Returning starters: 7 offense, 8 defense rushed for 1,191 yards and 12 touch- will probably be felt most tangibly. ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 downs last season, as Walnut went 9-2 Moore is short on linemen, which and finished second in Division 1-2A. puts the onus on the linebackers. Fill- SCHEDULE 3 players to watch He won’t play as many positions as ing Sesma’s inside slot will be junior Aug. 28 at Middleton, Tenn.# Sesma did – he’ll help fill the void on Tyler Camburn (5-11, 175), who made Sept. 5 Alcorn Central ILB Tyler Camburn, Jr. defense as a free safety and linebacker 102 tackles and four sacks last year. Sept. 12 at Mooreville I Made 102 tackles, 4 sacks, 1 INT. – but Luster (6-foot, 175 pounds) car- Linebackers are key in what Sept. 18 at Falkner# ries the same spirit onto the field. amounts to a 3-6 look. It’s something Sept. 26 North Pontotoc RB/LB Gavin Luster, Sr. “Gavin understands – he’s been Moore went to three years ago be- Oct. 3 at Hatley* I Rushed for team-high 1,191 yards, 12 TDs. doing this long enough now, he cause of a lack of size. Oct. 10 Mantachie* knows what it takes in the offseason “We’re real heavy on linebacker and Oct. 17 at Belmont* to prepare to have a year like this,” DB-type kids,” he said. “(We) try to Oct. 24 Hamilton* WR/RB Shaquille Perry, So. Moore said. “People follow Gavin.” come at teams from different angles, Oct. 31 Baldwyn* I Had 455 total yards. As for quarterback, junior Hunter different combinations of blitzes.” *–Division 1-2A game; #–Thursday BIG Chickasaw E quipment Co. Cole’s No Down Payment &Tall No Inter est 980 Bar nes Cr ossing Rd. •Tupelo • (662) 620-1735 •Mon-Sat 9:30-6:00 No Payments for 60 Months *

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Shirts thru 8XBig & 6XTall •Slacksthru sizes72Waist Dr ess Shirts thru Neck Sizes26•X-Long Neck T ies PAGE 44H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL BIGGERSVILLE scouting report Finesse out, force in BREAKDOWN I I Junior Jake Johnson back at QB, but Short on skill players, Lions will some big bodies, including returning he’ll have few targets with shallow receiv- take it right at opponents this year. starters Trevin Carpenter (6-foot-3, ing corps. … Offensive linemen Trevin 340 pounds) and Cody Kerr (6-0, 260), Carpenter and Cody Kerr won’t play both sophomores. Lawson said he ex- BY BRAD LOCKE much on defense. … DE Bradley Dil- pects to run the ball about 80 percent Daily Journal worth (5-10, 180) leads defensive front. of the time. Biggersville has produced a couple … Lions’ lone win last year came vs.Al- of outstanding skill players in recent corn Central, 13-6. … Offense was held years, Alex Carpenter and Montario Strong secondary to a touchdown or less eight times. Patterson, both of whom are now Fewer teams in Class 1A are run- RB Jonathan Ragin Mississippi State Bulldogs. ning that much with the rising popu- 5-year glance, wins No such player can be found on this larity of the spread offense. So Law- SHELBY DANIEL/SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL year’s Lions squad. What sixth-year son is glad that his secondary, led by coach Ronnie Lawson does have is junior Trey Clark, is the strength of his some size, which means finesse will defense. lions fast facts give way to force this fall. Still, there’s much room for im- I Division: 1-1A “We’re going to be a lot bigger and provement for a unit that yielded 32.6 3 3 6 I 2007 record: 1-10, no playoffs stronger than we have in the past,” points per game last year. 1 1 I Coach: Ronnie Lawson (6th year) “The main problem was we had Lawson said. “Our running backs are ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 7 offense, 7 defense actually fitted better for running be- people in position, we just weren’t tween the tackles.” making plays and weren’t tackling,” said Lawson, who’s 14-44 at Big- SCHEDULE Senior Dylan Rees and sophomore Aug. 29 at East Webster* 3 players to watch Jonathan Ragin will be the main ball gersville. The new-look Lions have more Sept. 5 West Lowndes* carriers. Both got a lot of touches last Sept. 12 at Alcorn Central WR/DB Trey Clark, Jr. season after Patterson’s season was than to overcome than the loss of cer- I Sept. 19 at Thrasher* Experience, speed make him dangerous defender. ended by a broken ankle two games tain players. They were 1-10 last year Sept. 26 Smithville* in. and finished last in Division 1-1A; it Oct. 3 at West Oktibbeha* “They’re going to get the tough was Biggersville’s 13th straight losing Oct. 10 Calhoun City* RB/LB Jonathan Ragin, So. campaign. I Tough inside runner with experience. yards, three to four yards,” Lawson Oct. 17 at Vardaman* said. “They really don’t have the “This year we’ve worked real hard in Oct. 24 Falkner* breakaway speed to go 80 yards like the weightroom,” Lawson said, “and Oct. 31 at Okolona* RB/LB Dylan Rees, Sr. Tojo (Patterson) did.” are trying to convince them that’ll Nov. 7 East Oktibbeha* I Much like Ragin, will get tough yards between tackles. Rees and Ragin will run behind carry over to football.” *–Division 1-1A game

SEC 2007 STANDINGS EASTERN SEC PF PA ALL PF PA 2006 T25 Streak *Tennessee 6-2 243 246 10-4455 382 9-4 3-3 W1 *Georgia 6-2 228 171 11-2424 262 8-4 5-0 W7 Florida 5-3 305 224 9-4 552 331 13-1 2-2 L1 South Carolina 3-5 205 227 6-6 313 282 7-5 2-3 L5 Kentucky 3-5 249 276 8-5 475 385 8-5 2-4 W1 Vanderbilt 2-6 198 203 5-7260 271 4-81-4 L4 WESTERN SEC PF PA ALL PF PA 2006 T25 Streak #LSU 6-2 298 215 12-2 541 279 11-2 7-1 W2 Auburn 5-3 156 138 9-4 315 220 11-2 2-2 W2 Arkansas 4-4 274 249 8-5485 345 10-42-4 L1 Mississippi State 4-4 157 215 8-5 279 301 3-9 2-3 W2 Alabama 4-4 212 190 7-6352 286 6-72-3 W1 Ole Miss 0-8 131 252 3-9 241 342 4-8 0-4 L2 *-Division champion(s); #-SEC Championship Game winner T25: Record against teams ranked in Top 25 when game was played.

MISS. STATE (8-5) OLE MISS (4-8) 0 LSU 45 23 at Memphis 21 38 at Tulane 17 25 Missouri 38 19 at Auburn 14 17 at Vanderbilt 31 31 Gardner-Webb 15 24 Florida 30 21 at South Carolina 38 17 at Georgia 45 30 UAB 13 24 Louisiana Tech 0 21 Tennessee 33 24 Alabama 27 13 at West Virginia 38 8 Arkansas 44 31 at Kentucky 14 3 at Auburn 17 17 Alabama 12 38 Northwestern State 31 31 at Arkansas 45 24 LSU 31 17 Ole Miss 14 14 at Mississippi State 17 Liberty Bowl 10 Central Florida 3 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 45H CALHOUN CITY scouting report Lawrence leads them BREAKDOWN I Three-man defensive front will feature I Versatile senior will help oversee an offense that, de- three freshmen. … Freshman FB/LB Ra- spite the youth move- heem Roberson (5-9, 240) is nephew of development of promising youth. ment, returns seven ex-MSU standout Kendall Roberson.… starters. Strength on defense will be in secondary, BY BRAD LOCKE It’s that experience where all three starters return, including Daily Journal that will ultimately freshman Tae Lawrence, younger brother Everyone is “going green” these carry Calhoun City of Brandon Lawrence. … Offensive line days. So is Calhoun City, and it could far. While Jennings is as big as team’s had in a decade. prove a beneficial move for the Wild- where the offense be- cats. WR/FS Brandon Lawrence gins, plays will often LAWRENCE 5-year glance, wins They haven’t much choice. The ros- end with the ball in 13 ter is composed of 25 freshmen and 12 THOMAS WELLS senior Brandon Lawrence’s hands. 11 sophomores and just 10 juniors and Lawrence (5-foot-9, 155 pounds) 10 seniors. The greenhorns, however, will play receiver, running back and 8 wildcats fast facts should quickly ripen. even a little quarterback. He account- I Division: 1-1A “The ninth-grade bunch we’ve got ed for 1,315 total yards and 18 touch- I 2007 record: 8-3, reached first round of playoffs that’s going to be playing is probably downs last year. I the best we’ve ever had,” said head Coach: Mike Ray (14th year) “Brandon is probably the hardest- ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 7 offense, 5 defense coach Mike Ray, who’s entering his playing player I’ve ever coached,” Ray 14th seasons at the helm of his alma said. “To be 155 pounds, he plays like mater. SCHEDULE he’s 195 pounds. He’s going to give our Aug. 28 at Vardaman*# 3 players to watch Among the “very capable” young- team every ounce of energy he can Sept. 5 Falkner* sters to contribute this fall are sopho- possibly muster up.” Sept. 12 at Okolona* WR/CB Demarius Howard, So. more quarterback J.R. Jennings, a re- He’ll also provide the kind of leader- Sept. 19 East Oktibbeha* I Stands 6-1, adds speed to secondary. turning starter; freshman fullback Ra- ship that all those impressionable Sept. 26 at East Webster* heem Roberson; freshman defensive newcomers will need to stay focused. Oct. 3 West Lowndes* lineman Rokedrick Mays; sophomore Lawrence also plays on defense, at Oct. 10 at Biggersville* QB J.R. Jennings, So. linebacker Taylor Threadgill; and free safety, and will be backing up a I Passed for 1,326 yards, 16 TDs, made six starts. Oct. 17 Thrasher* freshman cornerback Aaron Thomp- front line that has three freshmen. Oct. 24 at Smithville* son. “They’re pretty good,” Lawrence Oct. 31 West Oktibbeha* WR/FS Brandon Lawrence, Sr. Jennings passed for 1,326 yards and said. “It’s going to be a learning Nov. 7 Idle I Had 1,315 total yards; made 10 INTs. 16 touchdowns last season. He leads process for them.” *–Division 1-1A game; #–Thursday scouting report FALKNER BREAKDOWN QB job: It’s a mystery I Coach Nickey Nance hopes new- found depth at every position will pay off I Coach Nance keeping mum NFL head coach Bill Belichick does in win column. … Six seniors, three jun- with the New England Patriots. iors on roster. … Speed will not be the on who will start under center. Nance’s reasons for not revealing fur- Eagles’ strong suit. …Senior Robert ther insight into his quarterback situa- BY JOHN WILBERT tion are what he considers to be best McCoy is long returning starter in sec- Daily Journal ondary. … Eagles’ last winning season and fair for his young team. was 2003 (8-3 record). … Last playoff When asked if a starting quarter- appearance was 2002. back from last season would be re- Avoiding controversy turning, Falkner head coach Nickey “I don’t really want to create a con- 5-year glance, wins Nance stopped just short of naming troversy at this point,” Nance said. “I RB Michael Prather the returning player. don’t care for people to start talking “We are,” said Nance. “The quarter- about a decision that I’ve got to make BRAD LOCKE back that started for us most of the between now and Aug. 29.” (last) year resists to play (QB this sea- 8 son).” Nance added that he doesn’t want to eagles fast facts hurry his decision on who starts at 4 And? I Division: 1-1A “There’s going to be a little bit of a quarterback, and that whoever in the 2 I 2007 record: 1-10, no playoffs 1 quarterback challenge this year, so I preseason proves himself capable of 0 handling that position the best and I Coach: Nickey Nance (2nd year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 don’t really want to talk about that at I Returning starters: 9 offense, 5 defense this point. I’m not sure which way shows that he is the most game-ready SCHEDULE we’ll go yet.” will be the starter. Aug. 29 West Oktibbeha* When asked if he could disclose “We’ll see what happens between Sept. 5 at Calhoun City* who was competing for the quarter- now and then,” Nance said. “I may 3 players to watch Sept. 12 Vardaman* back spot, Nance said, “I’d rather not (make a) change after the first game. At this point, I just want to field the team C/DL Tyler Green, Sr. Sept. 18 Walnut# at this point.” I Sept. 26 at Okolona* Last year, Deven Settlemires fin- that I feel like we can win with and to Averaged 6 solo tackles per game. Oct. 3 East Oktibbeha* ished the preseason as the starter at put people in position that can help us Oct. 10 at East Webster* quarterback. Furthermore, Set- to win, and whatever it takes (to win).” OT/DL Dominique Prather, Sr. Oct. 17 West Lowndes* tlemires started at quarterback as a All Nance can guarantee right now I Recorded 5.5 tackles per game. Oct. 24 at Biggersville* sophomore in 2006. is that there will be someone behind Oct. 31 Thrasher* Now, Nance isn’t trying to prevent center on Aug. 29 when Falkner kicks Nov. 7 at Smithville* personnel decisions from becoming off the season at home against West RB Will Robertson, So. *–Division 1-1A game; #–Thursday public knowledge to the degree that Oktibbeha. I Averaged 5.5 yards per carry. PAGE 46H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL OKOLONA scouting report Coming together quickly BREAKDOWN I I New coach Marty Warren had late angles. Warren will First-year coach M arty Warren was employ a six-man 2-18 at North Pontotoc (2005-06). … start but is making up ground. backfield rotation – Keon Hill, K entray Wear and Shaquille three in each group, Wilson bring experience to backfield. … BY BRAD LOCKE trading out series. Sophomore WR/DB Antwan Grady is Daily Journal Okolona has plenty younger brother of departed WR/LB Not surprisingly, first-year Okolona of skill people back to Willie Grady. … Secondary will feature coach Marty Warren has had trouble pull that off, and War- good speed. … Warren will employ Wing- remembering all his players’ names. T on offense with spread elements. ren’s seen no signs of Surprisingly, that’s his biggest prob- jealousy. WARREN RB Keon Hill lem. “The fresher we 5-year glance, wins It’s been only six weeks since Warren are,” he said, “the more potential we’ve was hired to replace Ken Byars, who THOMAS WELLS got for a big break.” left in the spring after one season. Last week, Warren did not look like a man 8 chieftains fast facts stressed out by the time crunch. Garth under center Warren is actually going to try to 5 5 I Division: 1-1A “I’m really pleased with how far 3 I 2007 record: 8-4, reached second round of playoffs ahead we are,” he said. “The kids have pass the ball 40 percent of the time. 2 I Senior Corielle Garth is the likely Coach: Marty Warren (1st year) worked extremely hard.” ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 7 offense, 4 defense Much work remains. starter at quarterback. Okolona went 8-4 last year and lost “Corielle runs the team a little better than anyone else right now,” Warren SCHEDULE in the second round of the playoffs. Aug. 29 Smithville* 3 players to watch Key to that run were inside lineback- said. “We kind of play better behind him.” Sept. 5 at West Oktibbeha* ers Justin Cherry and Willie Grady, Sept. 12 Calhoun City* DT Josh Buchanan, Sr. who combined for 37 1/2 sacks. Warren’s main concern is a thin of- Sept. 19 at Vardaman* I Despite size – 6-5, 340 – moves very well. Trying to fill those shoes are seniors fensive line.His Chieftains will have to Sept. 26 Falkner* Demarcus Hykes and Jay Buchanan. find answers there quickly with Divi- Oct. 3 at Pontotoc “Jay reads extremely well, finds the sion 1-1A shaping up as its usually un- Oct. 10 at East Oktibbeha* QB Corielle Garth, Sr. forgiving self. I Will provide steadying influence for team in transition. football and moves to it well,” Warren Oct. 17 East Webster* said. “Demarcus is a bit wild, but if he “It’s going to be a tough road,” War- Oct. 24 at West Lowndes* ever finds you, he’ll knock you out.” ren admitted. Oct. 31 Biggersville* TE/LB Demarcus Hykes, Sr. Offensively, the Chieftains will try to But at least Okolona has gotten Nov. 7 at Thrasher* I Solid run blocker on offense, run stopper on defense. deliver knockout blows from several rolling down it. *–Division 1-1A game scouting report SMITHVILLE BREAKDOWN Up to their old tricks I Smithville has only one non-division game, county rival Hatley on a Thursday. I There’s a buzz in Smithville that … Last state title came in 1998, and it’s won only one playoff game since (2001), hasn’t been felt in a few years. losing in the first round five times. … BY BRANDON SPECK Despite finishing 7-4, the Seminoles Monroe Journal missed the playoffs by one game last We’ve got them all coming back, SMITHVILLE – Smithville finished year. … TD Bud Cox a go-to guy who can and they’re all bigger and faster and be used confidently as a blocker. 12-10 in Bubba Tacker's first two sea- sons. After two championships in the 1990s and an 11-1 finish in Dwight stronger.” Bubba Tacker QB Brett Bridges 5-year glance, wins Bowling’s final season, two straight playoff misses didn't sit well with fans. Smithville coach BRANDON SPECK/MONROE JOURNAL 11 Last season, though, that playoff “ miss was by only a game, with Var- that high level is back around this sea- 7 7 7 daman grabbing the fourth and final son. seminoles fast facts 5 berth. It was the culmination of a Senior quarterback Brett Bridges is I week-in, week-out regular season bat- Division: 1-1A back for his senior year and is a veter- I 2007 record: 7-4, no playoffs tle that included 10 division games. an among youngsters. I A 7-4 finish in most other divisions Head coach: Bubba Tacker (3rd year) ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 The team’s strength, according to I Returning starters: 6 offense, 7 defense would have been good for a No. 2 Tacker, is the offensive line, a list of SCHEDULE seed. Not in 1-1A, which will again be sophomores blocking for a host of Aug. 29 at Okolona* strong at the top with defending sophomores in backs Antwune, Jore'el Sept. 5 East Oktibbeha* champ East Webster the favorite. and Datrune Freeman. The ’Noles will 3 players to watch Sept. 12 at East Webster* “You’ve got to play every week,” run, but in which direction and with Tacker said. “This program has been RB Antwune Freeman, So. Sept. 19 West Lowndes* which skill guy is the guess opponents I Sept. 26 at Biggersville* on such a high level for years. When will have to make. His backfield speed is key to success. Oct. 3 Thrasher* people get an opportunity to beat “We went 7-4 in the toughest region Oct. 9 at Hatley# Smithville, they love it, and that’s fine. there is. We’ve got them all coming QB Brett Bridges, Sr. Oct. 17 at West Oktibbeha* It all works around.” back, and they’re all bigger and faster I Didn’t play as a sophomore, started as a junior. Oct. 24 Calhoun City* Tacker, Bowling’s defensive coordi- and stronger,” Tacker said. “They Oct. 31 at Vardaman* nator, said last year’s success translat- know that, and they’re building on it. Nov. 7 Falkner* ed well through the following nine That young group, that’s been in their C Steve Adams, So. *–Division 1-1A game; #–Thursday months. A lot of onlookers are saying mind since they were young.” I Anchors a line that averages 260 pounds. NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 47H THRASHER scouting report New man on a mission BREAKDOWN I McGregory hoping new energy can are eight to 10 kids walking the halls I Rebels will try to get the ball often that could be playing football. Maybe into the hands of O’Bryan Taylor, proba- lead to wins, and then more players. after I’ve been on campus a while and bly their most athletic player. … QB they see what we’re doing, we can get Rusty Landry has shown he can be on BY PARRISH ALFORD target. … Success on defense will de- Daily Journal kids like that to come out and play football.” pend largely on the play-making ability Keeping kids interested in football of Taylor and Montrell Moment at LB. … hasn’t always been easy at Thrasher, With an eye on the future, there are athletes that can help out in the pres- Thrasher was shut out three times last and it isn’t likely to come easily for season. Shannon McGregory. ent, especially running back O’Bryan Taylor, who rushed for more than Especially since he didn’t get started 5-year glance, wins RB O’Bryan Taylor until July. 1,500 yards last season. That’s when McGregory was hired Taylor will be the focal point of an SHELBY DANIEL/SPECIAL TO THE DAILY JOURNAL from Sheffield, Ala., to take over the option-oriented attack that will be led Rebels, who were 3-8 last year. by quarterback Rusty Landry. rebels fast facts Barely more than a month into the Split end Tollison Welch is a key re- job, he’s making progress with the turning receiver, and he’ll play safety I Division: 1-1A 3 3 names of his players but is still learn- on defense. 2 I 2007 record: 3-8, no playoffs ing the names of teachers and co- 1 I The biggest change for the players 0 Coach: Shannon McGregory (1st year) workers. ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 I Returning starters: 5 offense, 4 defense may be on the offensive line, where While the program has lacked re- the system will be more scheme- and cent success, McGregory senses the responsibility-oriented rather than SCHEDULE energy that often accompanies a fresh straight man-on-man attack. Aug. 29 at East Oktibbeha* 3 players to watch start. McGregory has been pleased with Sept. 5 East Webster* “The kids are excited about what what he’s seen in the early going. Sept. 12 at West Lowndes* RB O’Bryan Taylor, Sr. we’re trying to do. The ones that are Sept. 19 Biggersville* I Team’s best athlete rushed for 1,500 yards. out here are committed. They want “We had a scrimmage last week, and Sept. 26 Hatley someone to be committed to them, I think we may have had only one Oct. 3 at Smithville* and that’s my job,” he said. missed assignment with our offensive Oct. 10 West Oktibbeha* QB Rusty Landry, Sr. line,”McGregory said in mid-August. I Passed for more than 1,000 yards. McGregory hopes to lay a founda- Oct. 17 at Calhoun City* tion that can lure other athletes in the The Rebels will run from a four-man Oct. 24 Vardaman* school to join the football program. front on defense where outside line- Oct. 31 at Falkner* C Bart Tremble, Sr. “Sometimes it takes building rela- backers Taylor and Montrell Moment Nov. 7 Okolona* I Moved to the middle from OT. tionships with kids,” he said. “There are expected to roam and make plays. *–Division 1-1A game

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3282 North Gloster •Tupelo,MS 662-891-4649 PAGE 48H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL VARDAMAN New era at Vardaman scouting report BREAKDOWN I Justin Hollis replaces Mark Bray, A year ago, Damon Johnson stepped I Coach Justin Hollis was Amory assis- in as a freshman quarterback and pro- tant coach last four seasons. … Rams who coached Rams for 23 seasons. duced instantly – passing and running return four starters on the offensive line, the football. But Johnson will move to led by seniors Jordan Inman and Wes BY PAUL JONES receiver and running back this season Parker. … Senior LB Kevin Barnette had Special to the Journal while senior Gene Ruth starts his first 106 tackles in ’07 en route to MAC first- For the past 17 years, Vardaman has season under center. team all-state honors. … Damon John- been a perennial playoff team in the Ruth will have the luxury of an expe- son accounted for 22 touchdowns as a Class 1A ranks. rienced offensive line – four starters freshman. Although there will be a new coach back – and senior wide receiver Xavier QB Gene Ruth roaming the Rams' sidelines this fall, other features of the program have not Humphries. 5-year glance, wins “We want to spread it out and run changed. 13 ADAM GORE/MONITOR-HERALD “This has always been a very attrac- the spread offense,” said Hollis, who spent the last four seasons on the 9 tive opportunity,” said first-year Var- 8 daman head coach Justin Hollis, who Amory staff. “We will have some two 7 rams fast facts 6 replaced Mark Bray, the Rams’ coach tight end sets and some five wide re- I Division: 1-1A ceiver sets. And like always, we need to I of the previous 23 seasons. “I think 2007 record: 8-4, reached first round of playoffs Coach Bray said it best, saying that it offensive line to set the tone." I Head coach: Justin Hollis (1st year) Defensively, the Rams return their I doesn’t matter who the coach is, you ’03 ’04 ’05 ’06 ’07 Returning starters: 8 offense, 8 defense are going to always have good com- top leader in senior linebacker Kevin Barnette, who will also see time at munity support at Vardaman. SCHEDULE “And I have seen how true that is. It tight end on the other side of the ball. Aug. 28 Calhoun City*# 3 players to watch is why Vardaman has enjoyed so much Humphries highlights the Rams’ Sept. 4 at Bruce# success in the past. Of course, Var- secondary, while junior defensive Sept. 12 at Falkner* RB/WR Damon Johnson, So. daman also has its share of talented tackle Jeremy Penson (6-foot-3, 285) I Sept. 19 Okolona* As QB last year, passed for 1,327 yards,13 TDs. players.” made tremendous strides this offsea- Sept. 26 at East Oktibbeha* Hollis will have his share of experi- son in the weight room. Oct. 3 East Webster* WR/DB Xavier Humphries, Sr. ence and talented players, returning “We have tons of experience, defen- Oct. 10 at West Lowndes* I Made 53 catches for 906 yards, nine TDs. eight starters on both sides of the ball. sively,” said Hollis. “We want to give Oct. 17 Biggersville* There will be some shuffling offen- multiple looks with our front four. The Oct. 24 at Thrasher* sively, though for Hollis and the Rams, goals are to confuse the offenses and Oct. 31 Smithville* QB/FS Gene Ruth, Sr. who finished 8-4 and made the Class not let anybody get set on what we are Nov. 7 at West Oktibbeha* I Former WR in first year as QB. 1A playoffs in 2007. doing.” *–Division 1-1A game; #–Thursday

money we make? I’d say, yeah, we do, needs to make great decisions for our Coaches because we’re under pretty tight scruti- Snead football team,” offensive coordinator ny. We’re responsible for a lot of things and quarterbacks coach Continued from Page 9H that happen with 120 plus players prob- Continued from Page 7H said. “He needs to put our offense in a ably: academics, off the field, winning position to be successful. He does that our society. I think it’s a great piece of and losing, filling the seats, driving the mind. We know he is our quarterback primarily by being a great decision- our country. When you compete at the engine that provides the money for a lot and our leader.” maker.” highest level in this country, you’re com- of other athletes in other sports.” While the Rebels have had receivers pensated fairly.” The astronomical salaries have even with big-play ability, they’ve struggled Crucial relationship But does it make sense for universities trickled down to the Mississippi schools. under center since left Austin can directly impact Snead’s to be dishing out such gaudy salaries? Houston Nutt of Ole Miss is set to town. decisions, for better or worse, in how Apparently so, based on the results. make $1.7 million, as is Mississippi No Ole Miss quarterback in the last he communicates the Rebels’ new of- Five coaches – Steve Spurrier (South State’s Sylvester Croom. four seasons has started every game. fensive scheme. Carolina), Phillip Fulmer (Tennessee), Despite a new contract that nearly Nutt built his Arkansas teams Saban and Miles – have won national ti- doubled his salary this past offseason, Quarterback shuffle around the run, a fact that would often tles. Then there’s Auburn’s Tommy Tu- Croom sports just a 17-30 ledger. Three different quarterbacks started frighten a talented quarterback. berville, whose team went 13-0 in 2004 But after an 8-5 campaign a year ago games in 2005, and three quarterbacks Austin, himself an Ole Miss quarter- but wasn’t given an opportunity to play and high expectations for the upcoming played in the same game in 2004 – back back in the day, vows the system for a national championship. season, new athletics director Greg , Robert Lane and will stress balance and taking what the Byrne knew Croom’s salary had to be Ethan Flatt. That game at South Caroli- defense gives. ‘A little shocking to me’ more competitive in order to keep him na, coincidentally, was the last time the “Coach Austin is a great teacher on And when you consider the fact Geor- around for years to come. Rebels have scored at least 30 points the board and in the film room and gia’s Mark Richt and Arkansas’ Bobby Still, Croom said, the money won’t against a Division I foe, a 31-28 win. the walk-throughs,” Snead said. “He Petrino have been to BCS bowls, the change him as a person or his coaching Quarterback play and scoring go can be a little intimidating with his schools are reaping the benefits from philosophy. hand-in-hand, and Ole Miss has knowledge of the game, but when he those salaries in such a pressure cooker “You know, my wife and I, we're just ranked no better than 103rd national- explains it, it makes sense.” conference. thinking of all the things we've been ly – with the 2004 team – in scoring of- Nutt says Snead under center makes “It’s a little shocking to me that I make through over the years, the tough times fense since Manning’s senior season. a lot of sense for Ole Miss, and that’s what I make,” said Kentucky’s Rich and all the financial things that we've Manning’s 2003 team finished No. 17 one more thing the big Texan will Brooks, who brings home $1.1 million been through, and yet our lifestyle really in the nation and No. 1 in the SEC in show when the season gets under way. annually. “It's even more shocking when hasn't changed,” he said. “The biggest scoring offense with 34 points a game. “He’s a good decision-maker, and I see what other people are making. thing is I don't have to worry about pay- The 2005 team was No. 115 out of he’s accurate. Those two things to me “But it’s just a sign of the times, I ing my bills. I don't think any head 117 teams. Only Buffalo and Temple are the key components in being a guess. Is it a little out of balance? Yeah, I coach in the Southeastern Conference scored fewer touchdowns that season. very good quarterback,” Nutt said. think it is. Do we earn most of the does. I can say that without hesitation.” “More than anything else Jevan “We’re trusting Jevan Snead.” NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 49H UPSTART PROGRAMS: Football growing in popularity at area small schools UNION-IZING: CO-OP TEAM IN THE WORKS I Four Union County schools look to join forces on gridiron.

When Ken Basil took over as Union County superintendent in January, the very first call he received was from someone asking about football. C. TODD SHERMAN Yes, football. None of the schools Right now, Wheeler’s football team practices on the school’s baseball field and plays home games at Thrasher’s stadium. Basil oversees in his basketball-mad school district carry the sport, but that could soon change. East Union, Ingomar, Myrtle and West Union might soon join forces to form what’s called a co-op football From the ground up squad. Basil has sent a proposal to the MHSAA and is expecting a “yea” or “nay” in October. “It’s the only way financially that New grid programs cropping up in basketball country Union County (can afford it),” Basil said. BY BRAD LOCKE boys go, they’ve learned (the But why the sudden interest in a Daily Journal schemes) quickly,” he said. “I county that has dubbed itself the The first football game Jerry thought none of them would state’s basketball “Hotbed”? Basil Wilburn saw was the first one have any clue at all, and most cited the rising popularity of, and fan he played in. didn’t, but I had a handful of Fifty years ago, Wilburn was a guys who just caught on quick- access to, the college and pro games; member of Mantachie’s first ly, and the ones who didn’t local youth leagues; and simply see- football team. The senior guard catch on quickly listen and do ing life beyond the county line. wasn’t the only Mustang who what they’re told.” “Basketball is still king in Union hadn’t seen a game – only one Allen and his colleagues must County and will be for a long, long or two teammates had. strike a balance between keep- time,” Basil said. “But we had people “We didn’t have nothing but ing it simple enough for their move away and come back, and we basketball,” Wilburn said, “and players but not so simple that see there’s other things besides bas- there was so many of us that opponents see what’s coming. ketball.” couldn’t play basketball, we fig- It will be a gradual building Myrtle principal Vince Jordan is all ured we ought to play some- process. for it. He’s a former football coach, thing.” “I kind of nailed some things most recently at Ripley, and sees kids Mantachie went 2-5 that in- down, and to make it a lot easi- walking his halls who could excel on augural season, beating Ponto- er as the year goes on, we’re the gridiron. toc’s B team and Caledonia. going to get good at what we “I think our students are missing The first game, a 25-0 loss to do,” said Wheeler coach Richey out on a great opportunity,” Jordan Fulton, Wilburn recalls being Dillinger, who took over after said. “scared to death. We went over Kevin Walton’s departure. “As “Opportunity” is the key word for there, and after the first few the year goes on, we’re going to Basil. Because with a football team plays we seen we could play build on that.” comes a band, and Basil thinks it with them.” All coaches stress fundamen- could open the door for other sports, That was Mantachie’s biggest tals. That was all New Site like soccer and volleyball. obstacle to overcome: fear. It’s coach Josh Alford worked on “The sky’s the limit here,” he said. an obstacle now facing four the first week of August. Since Union County boasts some of the fledgling Northeast Mississippi then, he’s slowly been installing state’s best rivalries, but Jordan does- football programs. C. TODD SHERMAN elements of his spread offense Wheeler began its JV program last year and will go full-varsity in 2009. n’t see that as an obstacle. Quite the Houlka, Jumpertown, New and split-4 defense. opposite, in fact. Site and Wheeler – each with its “They pay attention to de- “The kids have such a great rela- own rich basketball history – what a football game looks like. Allen asked, “Why didn’t you tail,” Alford said, “and all of are all aiming for varsity play in Still, there is much to be blitz?” them try to do what I tell them.” tionship with each other from school the near future. Wheeler is set learned. “What’s a blitz?” the player A strong passion for the game to school,” Jordan said. “We compete to do so next year – it started a asked. and its intricacies is the com- at a high intensity level against each JV program last season – while Learning curve Allen saw it as a teachable mon thread running through other, but once we hit the playoffs the other three are going to see During the first week of Au- moment. There will be lots of each upstart program. The and one of us reaches Jackson, the how things go before moving gust drills, Houlka coach Rob those, but not as many as Allen players already know the col- whole community gets involved in on up. Allen told a player to blitz. thought. supporting the kids and the school.” At least today’s players know When the kid stayed at home, “As far as the high school Turn to PROGRAMS on Page 54H Brad Locke PAGE 50H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL TUPELO CHRISTIAN scouting report Seniors: Been there BREAKDOWN I I TCPS welcomes its first senior But he’s not alone. There’s also Dar- Eagles’ biggest lineman is 250- ius Garrett, a high-motor receiver, pound senior Chris Vasquez. … Senior class in second year of varsity play. strong safety and kicker. There’s Brett WR/CB Logan Ayers is a first-year player. …K Chris Garrett had long field goal of BY BRAD LOCKE Pierce, the cool and collected quarter- 45 yards last season. … DB William Daily Journal back. Goss (6 INTs) transferred to Tupelo High. Officially, Ryan Bright is finally a Neither Bright nor Garrett will leave … Senior OLB Alex Lyons will move down senior. Unofficially, he’s been one for a the field much. when Eagles use five-man front. … TCPS while. “Those two will be on the field as yielded 40 or more points five times. Tupelo Christian has a senior class long as they can stand it,” Boren said. RB Braxton Melancon for the first time, and nine of them Also expected to make plays is jun- I TCPS is only in play football. As the Eagles enter their ior tailback Braxton Melancon, a its second year of slasher to complement Bright’s lights- SHELBY DANIEL/SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL second season of full-varsity play, it’s playing varsity ball, those seniors who will carry a torch out style. Boren will employ a spread so there is no 5- they’ve been holding for years. offense, which he hopes helps dis- year glance. New eagles fast facts “We’ve been seniors for three or four guise a lack of depth up front. coach Aubrey Boren I District: 3-A years,” said Bright, a bruising fullback hopes his Eagles’ I 2007 record: 5-6, no playoffs and linebacker. Bright’s spot in middle first five seasons I Coach: Aubrey Boren (1st year) TCPS went 5-6 last year and finished The defense revolves around Bright, are full of progress, I Returning starters: 10 offense, 9 defense fourth in District 3-A. Head coach a middle linebacker and the team’s and a few wins. BOREN Chris McRae left after the season to strongest player. He’ll need to lead a better tackling effort than what TCPS SCHEDULE lead J.Z. George, and Mantachie na- Aug. 22 Marvell, Ark. 3 players to watch tive Aubrey Boren has stepped in de- had last year, when it yielded 27.5 Aug. 29 at TRA termined to keep the Eagles rising. points per game. Sept. 5 Houlka RB/LB Ryan Bright, Sr. He’s already learned that continued “We’ll be a lot faster on defense,” Sept. 12 FACS I Made 81 solo tackles, 3 fumble recoveries. growth rests with his seniors’ leader- said Garrett. Sept. 19 DeSoto ship. The expectations are lofty but rea- Sept. 26 Wheeler (location TBD) “Very obvious that they’ve had lead- sonable: a trip to the playoffs. Bright, Oct. 3 Winona* WR/SS/K Darius Garrett, Sr. Garrett and the rest of the seniors are I Had 32 catches for 691 yards, 6 TDs. ership,”Boren said. “Ryan Bright steps Oct. 10 at Hebron Christian* up as a leader in every area, whether ready to tackle that task. Oct. 17 at North Delta it’s strength and conditioning, his atti- “I like to win,” Garrett said. “It’s Oct. 24 Immanuel* QB Brett Pierce, Sr. tude on the off the field. He’s definite- proving to the other team you’re better Oct. 31 at WMCS I Passed for 1,536 yards, 15 TDs, 11 INTs. ly a leader.” than them, that gets me fired up.” *–District 3-A game P r otectwhatyouvaluemost.

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Eddie Sulliv an I 844-4065 2531 South Pr esident,Tupelo (Intersection at Cliff Gookin) ©Da il y J o ur n a l- 07 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 51H ACADEMY ROUNDUP: Private schools ready to roll CALHOUN ACA.: HEBRON CHR.: MARSHALL ACA.: OAK HILL ACA.: STARKVILLE ACA.: 8 MEN UP FATHER & SON JACKSON AGAIN? HIS OWN BOSS ALL ABOARD The numbers have finally caught up Communication between a coach What’s old is new to Keith Wicker Leroy Gregg never had a problem not Here’s the surest sign that Starkville with Calhoun Academy, but that might and his quarterback is always key to a and his Marshall Academy Patriots. being the boss. That’s because he’s Academy has turned a corner: Not a not be a bad thing. team’s success. That’s especially true With talented quarterback Brent worked for some pretty good bosses. single player left the team during two- The Cougars, with only 12 players when the two are father Adams off to college, and Pat Byrd and Bobby Hall at Amory, a-day preseason drills. on roster, are playing eight-man foot- and son. an offensive line that’s Dwight McComb and Thomas Pierce at “That’s the first two-a-day I’ve ever ball this season. They’ll participate in For the sixth season – lost some collective Aberdeen – not a bad group. After 33 had where nobody quit,” said first-year District I with Russell Academy, Calvary the fourth at the varsity weight and experience, years serving as an assistant, the 55- coach Brian Sims, who was head Christian, Central Academy and Kem- level – Sam Pearson will Wicker has installed a year-old Gregg is finally a head man coach at Winston Academy the past per Academy. coach his son, Jojo, He- “new” offense: the single himself. two seasons and was at Newton Acad- If not for some players joining up bron Christian’s dual wing. “When you work for the people I’ve emy’s helm for three years. late – word got out that the Cougars threat quarterback. He’d never run it be- worked for, just by osmosis I’m going to Maybe it was the unseasonably cool needed bodies – Calhoun Academy What’s made both of fore but studied up on it learn a little bit,” said Gregg, who was weather. Sims thinks his players are sim- would be one player short of fielding them successful, and this past offseason. an assistant at Oak Hill for two of the ply motivated to return to winning form. an eight-man team. what’s kept them close, “I didn’t know any- four years he’s been at the school. “I think over the last couple of “We missed the first week of (Au- is clear communication. thing about it,”Wicker But he faces a situation none of his years, they just haven’t been motivat- gust) practice because we had only “If you’re not careful, said. “I know I’m old, but former mentors faced. Oak Hill Academy ed,” Sims said. “They’re starting to un- six players,” coach Charles Driskell there are times a strain it’s older than me.” is coming off an 0-10 season under derstand that motivation has got to said. “We only had eight boys in the can be put on the rela- The Patriots hope their Randy Carlisle. come from within.” high school in (grades) 10-12.” tionship,”Sam Pearson SHELBY DANIEL old-school approach can The Raiders return four starters on It was just three years ago that the Eight-man teams line up with a said.“So the communi- Hebron QB Jojo Pearson. take them back to Jack- each side of the ball.The offense is led Volunteers were the Class AAA Division center, two guards, two tight ends or cation has to be clear on son to try for another by senior quarterback Jordan Thomp- II state champs. Since then, they’ve split ends, a quarterback and two run- what you’re upset about. Class AA state champi- son, who will take most of his snaps in gone 5-16 and failed to make the ning backs. “I’m looking forward to this year, onship (they lost to Centreville Acade- the shotgun formation. His top target is playoffs. “The kids right now are looking for- because this year more than any, both my last year). 6-foot-3 senior Brett Barker. Though only three starters return on ward to it,” Driskell said.“Some kids of us are more comfortable with what Thirteen starters return from that “He’s just sort of matured over the each side of the ball, there is a grow- are getting to play some different po- we’re doing.” squad, including a key cog in the new summer,” Gregg said of Thompson, “and ing confidence in the Starkville Acade- my camp. Sims points to the offensive sitions they’ve never played before in Jojo Pearson (5-foot-10, 165 system, junior running back Tyler it seems this stuff is sort of easy for returnees – seniors Brad Fulgham, their life, and they’re really enjoying pounds) is coming off a superb season Childers, who Wicker called the fastest him right now.” it.” Jonathan McKenzie and Forrest Scrug- in which he passed for 1,362 yards player in District 1. Senior tight end Neill Haas provides Junior Alan Woodcock is a center- gs – and a promising young quarter- and rushed for 1,732 more. He’ll di- “He’s a tough kid,”Wicker said. good blocking and good hands, while turned-receiver and one of four return- rect an offense that returns six starters back, junior Will Goodwin, who will di- Though Marshall’s offense will be Junior David Matusiak (6-1, 254) an- ing starters. Senior Eric Lofton returns and picked up a seventh in tailback run-heavy, the big question remains: rect Sims’ spread attack. chors the line. at quarterback and defensive back, Will Watkins, who transferred in from Who’s replacing Adams? Sims called McKenzie, a tackle Barker and Haas also start on de- junior Tyler Blount is also a QB and Winona Christian. That would be senior Hunter Bolden. turned tight end and linebacker, “one DB, and senior Joey Turner is a run- Between Pearson and Watkins and a And sophomore Hank Owens. fense, at cornerback and middle line- of the best athletes in the state of Mis- ning back and safety. deep receiving corps, the Eagles will Wicker expects to use both of them backer, respectively. The other returnees sissippi.” Driskell and his players are still try- have no shortage of options on offense. throughout the season. are senior free safety Daniel Haas, As for Goodwin, Sims said,“He ing to learn the oddities of the eight- Defensively, Hebron will try to “They’re talented young men,” he Neill’s twin, and junior strong safety throws the ball well, makes good deci- man game – like opponents trying to stretch offenses with its speed. said, “they just need the reps.” Carter Burns. sions. He’s a smart kid. He’s picking up trick them into thinking an ineligible The Eagles hope to get beyond The offensive line is led by senior “We don’t have any world-beaters on our offense well.” receiver is eligible. He’s still trying to where they’ve been the past two sea- Spencer Autry (6-foot-3, 230 pounds), over there,” Gregg said,“but the kids Sims also likes what he sees in figure out the playoff setup. sons – the first round of the Class A who nearly quit the team in July after run to the football, and we’ve got speed Timmy Morgan, a receiver and running But he and his players are fully em- playoffs. Perhaps the Pearsons’ last his second knee surgery. on the defensive side.” back in his first year with the team. bracing it the new game. hurrah together can produce that feat. The defense, which returns seven Senior Chad Mangum returns to han- It’s Sims’ job to get the most out of “Eight-man is our answer right Even if it doesn’t, father and son starters, will get a boost from a couple dle kicking and punting duties. such talent. He did that at Winston, now,” Driskell said, “and with the num- will go home with their arms around of transfers – senior tackle Michael Gregg said the key for Oak Hill will where he went 20-8 and reached the bers we have in our school, it’s looking each others’ shoulders. Nooner (Center Hill) and sophomore be early success. Class AA semifinals both years. like it will be a three-year deal, at “We have our tough times,” Jojo Pear- linebacker Josh Vanderburg (DeSoto “We’re just trying to look forward,” he “We’re real close,” he said, “to being least.” son said,“but it’s a good connection.” Central). said, “and not dwell on the past.” a good football team.” Brad Locke Brad Locke Brad Locke Brad Locke Brad Locke

COUGARS SCHEDULE EAGLES SCHEDULE PATRIOTS SCHEDULE RAIDERS SCHEDULE VOLUNTEERS SCHEDULE Aug. 22 at North Sunflower Aug. 22 WMCS Aug. 22 at Lee, Ark.* Aug. 22 at Winston Aca. Aug. 22 at Hillcrest Christian Aug. 29 at Russell Aca.* Aug. 29 at Newton Aug. 29 Kirk Aca.* Aug. 29 Indianola Aug. 29 Carroll Aca. Sept. 5 Immanuel Christian Sept. 5 Benton Sept. 5 at Magnolia Heights Sept. 5 at Jackson Aca.* Sept. 5 at Pillow Aca.* Sept. 12 at Mt. Salus Sept. 12 at Immanuel* Sept. 12 Indianola* Sept. 12 Pillow Aca.* Sept. 12 at Heritage Aca.* Sept. 19 Bens Ford Christian Sept. 19 Idle Sept. 19 North Delta Sept. 19 Washington* Sept. 19 Magnolia Heights* Sept. 26 at Winona Christian Sept. 26 CMI Sept. 26 at Heritage Aca. Sept. 26 at Starkville Aca.* Sept. 26 Oak Hill Aca.* Oct. 3 Calvary Christian* Oct. 3 DeSoto Oct. 3 at Lee, Miss.* Oct. 3 Heritage Aca.* Oct. 3 at Leake Aca. Oct. 10 at Central Aca.* Oct. 10 TCPS* Oct. 10 WMCS Oct. 10 at Lamar Oct. 10 Jackson Aca.* Oct. 17 Hebron Christian Oct. 17 at Calhoun Aca. Oct. 17 Delta Oct. 17 Leake Aca. Oct. 17 at Washington* Oct. 24 Kemper Aca.* Oct. 24 Winona* Oct. 24 at Carroll Aca.* Oct. 24 at Magnolia Heights* Oct. 24 Lamar Oct. 31 Idle Oct. 31 at Alpha Oct. 31 Idle Oct. 31 Idle Oct. 31 at Winston Aca. *–District 1 game *–District 3-A game *–District 1-AA game *–District 1-AAA game *–District 1-AAA game PAGE 52H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL 12 GAMES TO WATCH: A Fans’ Guide If you’re the kind of fan that likes to load the cooler into the truck and find the best football game close by every Friday, here is a guide to make your sta- dium-hopping fall a little easier. These are must-see games. Aug. 28 (Thursday): Booneville at means is that some fresh blood will be has a chance to make its mark. Baldwyn spilled – figuratively speaking (we hope). I The Prentiss County rivals meet on Oct. 17: South Panola at Tupelo Thursday for the first time, at least that Sept. 19: Corinth at Booneville I “The Streak” could be up to 82 at this anyone can remember. Talk about an I The winner has the inside track in the point.This could finally be Tupelo’s time, early must-win. Division 1-3A race. Then again … if the Wave can forget “The Streak” exists. Aug. 29: Madison Central at Lafayette Co. Sept. 26: Ripley at Corinth Oct. 24: Bruce at Eupora I This is Lafayette’s chance to back up I The same could be said about this I The Trojans finished second to Eupora its preseason hype. The same goes for matchup, always a close one. in 2-2A last year. Commodore QB Montez Phillips. Oct. 3: East Webster at Vardaman Oct. 31: Booneville at Ripley Sept. 5: Lafayette Co. at Shannon I East Webster stands a good chance of I Boo! This game will likely be fraught I The ’Dores don’t believe in early sea- being unbeaten coming into this Division with division title implications. Beware son patsies. Shannon eliminated 1-1A tilt. How will new Vardaman coach the tiebreaker! Lafayette from the playoffs last year with Justin Hollis handle it? a 21-14 first-round win. Nov. 7: Tupelo at Olive Branch Oct. 10: Clarksdale at Lafayette Co. I You know, Tupelo hasn’t beaten the DESTE LEE Sept. 12: Starkville at West Point I This could be the de facto Division 2- Conquistadors in a while, either. Is two Receiver William Green and his Shannon Red Raiders face a tough I Both teams lost a lot of starters.All that 4A championship game. Again, Lafayette watershed wins asking too much? non-division test Sept. 5 when Lafayette County comes to town.

New Albany at Baldwyn Nettleton at Louisville Oak Hill Aca. at Starkville Aca. Belmont at Kossuth New Albany at Center Hill Tupelo Christian vs.Wheeler (location TBA) WEEKLY SCHEDULE Saltillo at Booneville Okolona at Vardaman Bruce at Hatley Pontotoc at Tishomingo Co. OCT.3 AUG. 22 Carroll Aca. at Starkville Aca. Calhoun City at Okolona Horn Lake at Ripley Aberdeen at Houston Calhoun Aca. at NSA Tupelo Christian at TRA Tishomingo Co. at Corinth West Lowndes at Smithville North Pontotoc at Alcorn Central WMCS at Hebron Christian Smithville at East Webster Wayne Co. at Starkville Nettleton at Amory Marshall Aca. at Lee,Ark. SEPT. 4 (THURSDAY) Vardaman at Falkner Madison Central at Tupelo Baldwyn at Mantachie Oak Hill Aca. at Winston Aca. Vardaman at Bruce Aberdeen at Hamilton West Point at New Hope Hamilton at Belmont Starkville Aca. at Hillcrest Christian Southaven at Holly Springs Bens Ford Christian at Calhoun Aca. Biggersville at West Oktibbeha Marvell,Ark. at Tupelo Christian SEPT. 5 Houston at Itawamba AHS North Delta at Marshall Aca. Kossuth at Booneville Pontotoc at Aberdeen North Panola at Lafayette Co. Washington at Oak Hill Bruce at William-Sullivan AUG. 28 (THURSDAY) Alcorn Central at Walnut Nettleton at Mantachie Magnolia Heights at Starkville Aca. West Lowndes at Calhoun City Booneville at Baldwyn New Hope at Amory Walnut at Mooreville DeSoto at Tupelo Christian Rosa Fort at Corinth Calhoun City at Vardaman Baldwyn at Saltillo North Pontotoc at South Pontotoc Idle: Mantachie, Hebron Christian East Webster at Vardaman Hamilton at Caledonia Belmont at Tishomingo Co. Oxford at Senatobia East Oktibbeha at Falkner Hatley at Nettleton West Lowndes at Biggersville Pontotoc at Ripley SEPT. 26 Walnut at Hatley Walnut at Middleton,Tenn. Booneville at Nettleton Jackson, Tenn., Central at Shannon Aberdeen at Nettleton Holly Springs at Senatobia Falkner at Calhoun City Starkville at West Point Alcorn Central at Kossuth Center Hill Itawamba AHS AUG. 29 Corinth at New Albany Thrasher at West Lowndes Amory at Winona Calhoun Aca. at Mt. Salus Lafayette Co. at Hernando Rosa Fort at Aberdeen East Webster at Thrasher Eupora at Baldwyn Mooreville at Ripley Tishomingo Co. at Alcorn Central Hamilton at South Pontotoc Hebron Christian at Immanuel Christian Red Bay, Ala. at Belmont Indianola at Marshall Aca. New Albany at Tishomingo Co. Amory at Itawamba AHS Hatley at North Pontotoc Smithville at Biggersville Okolona at Pontotoc Holly Springs at Water Valley Pillow Aca. at Oak Hill Aca. Mooreville at Belmont Boneville at Mooreville Gentry at Oxford Biggersville at East Webster Kosciusko at Houston Starkville Aca. at Heritage Aca. Bruce at Center Hill Saltillo at Shannon DeSoto Central at Bruce Itawamba AHS at Senatobia FACS at Tupelo Christian Calhoun City at East Webster Senatobia at Corinth Center Hill at Kossuth Ripley at Corinth Thrasher at Smithville West Oktibbeha at Falkner Lafayette Co. at Shannon SEPT. 18 (THURSDAY) Falkner at Okolona Louisville at South Pontotoc Holly Springs at Cordova, Tenn. Mantachie at Mooreville Walnut at Falkner Hamilton at Ackerman Tupelo at Starkville Eupora at Houston Okolona at West Oktibbeha Hatley at Hamilton Hatley at Thrasher Noxubee Co. at West Point Kossuth at Southaven Oxford at Horn Lake Holly Springs at Independence Calvary Christian at Cahoun Aca. Madison Central at Lafayette Co. Ripley at North Panola SEPT. 19 Houston at Louisville DeSoto at Hebron Christian Mantachie at North Pontotoc East Oktibbeha at Smithville Winona at Aberdeen Itawamba AHS at New Albany Marshall Aca. at Lee, Miss. Ripley at New Albany Starkville at Meridian Mooreville at Alcorn Central Greenwood at Lafayette Co. Heritage Aca. at Oak Hill Aca. Smithville at Okolona Tupelo at Grenada Amory at Shannon South Pontotoc at Mantachie Starkville Aca. at Leake Aca. Charleston at Oxford West Point at Columbus Baldwyn at Bruce North Pontotoc at Walnut Winona Christian at Tupelo Christian South Pontotoc at Pontotoc Immanuel Christian at Calhoun Aca. Ackerman at Belmont Oxford at Cleveland Saltillo at New Hope Benton at Hebron Christian Biggersville at Thrasher Shannon at Pontotoc OCT. 9 (THURSDAY) Shannon at West Point Marshall Aca. at Magnolia Heights Corinth at Booneville Tishomingo Co. at Saltillo Smithville at Hatley Starkville at Louisville Oak Hill Aca. at Jackson Aca. East Oktibbeha at Calhoun City Starkville at DeSoto Central Thrasher at East Oktibbeha Starkville Aca. at Pillow Aca. East Webster at West Oktibbeha Columbus at Tupelo OCT. 10 Covington,Tenn. at Tupelo Houlka at Tupelo Christian North Panola at Holly Springs Vardaman at East Oktibbeha South Pontotoc at Aberdeen Calhoun Aca. at Russell South Pontotoc at Houston Gentry at West Point Alcorn Central at Middleton, Tenn. Hebron Christian at Newton SEPT. 12 Saltillo at Itawamba AHS Calhoun Aca. at Winona Christian Houston at Amory Kirk Aca. at Marshall Aca. Biggersville at Alcorn Central Kossuth at North Pontotoc CMI at Hebron Christian Indianola at Oak Hill Aca. Tupelo at Amory Lafayette Co. at Oxford Marshall Aca. at Heritage Aca. Turn to SCHEDULE on Page 55H NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 53H DIVISION STANDINGS: Looking back at where they finished in 2007

I DIVISION 1-1A Standings involving area teams: Division Overall WLWL DIVISION 1-5A y-Booneville 4 2 6 5 x-East Webster 10 0 12 1 Division Overall y-Corinth 4 2 9 5 y-Okolona 8 2 8 4 WLWL y-Kossuth 3 3 5 6 y-Calhoun City 8 2 8 3 x-South Panola 7 0 15 0 North Pontotoc 2 4 3 7 y-Vardaman 7 3 8 4 y-Olive Branch 5 2 11 3 Mooreville 2 4 5 5 Smithville 6 4 7 4 y-Tupelo 5 2 9 4 Alcorn Central 0 6 1 9 West Lowndes 6 4 6 5 y-Starkville 4 3 7 6 West Oktibbeha 4 6 4 7 Columbus 3 4 6 5 DIVISION 2-3A East Oktibbeha 3 7 3 7 DeSoto Central 2 5 3 8 Division Overall Thrasher 2 8 3 8 Southaven 1 6 5 6 W LWL Falkner 1 9 1 10 Horn Lake 1 6 4 7 x-Louisville 6 0 12 3 Biggersville 1 10 0 10 y-Winona 5 1 9 2 DIVISION 1-4A y-Aberdeen 4 2 9 4 ACADEMIES Division Overall y-Amory 2 4 3 8 DISTRICT 1-AAA, DIVISION I WLWL Houston 2 4 2 8 District Overall x-Itawamba AHS 6 0 11 2 Nettleton 2 4 6 4 WLWL y-Shannon 5 1 10 2 South Pontotoc 0 6 1 9 x-Jackson Aca. 6 0 9 3 y-New Albany 3 3 3 8 y-Pillow Aca. 4 2 7 4 y-Tishomingo Co. 3 3 6 5 Starkville Aca. 2 4 4 7 Pontotoc 3 3 6 4 DIVISION 3-3A Center Hill 1 5 2 8 Division Overall DISTRICT 1-AAA, DIVISION II Saltillo 0 6 0 10 WLWL District Overall x-Byhalia 5 1 8 4 W LWL DIVISION 2-4A y-Senatobia 5 1 8 3 x-Washington 5 1 9 3 Division Overall y-North Panola 4 2 5 6 y-Magnolia Heights 3 3 5 6 WLWL y-Independence 3 3 5 6 Heritage Aca. 1 5 1 10 x-Clarksdale 5 1 8 3 Holly Springs 2 4 4 6 Oak Hill Aca. 0 6 0 10 y-Oxford 5 1 8 4 Rosa Fort 2 4 4 6 y-Lafayette Co. 5 1 8 3 Lewisburg 0 6 1 9 DISTRICT 1-AA y-Cleveland 3 3 5 6 District Overall Greenwood 2 4 4 5 DIVISION 1-2A WLWL Gentry 1 5 4 6 Division Overall x-Marshall Aca. 4 1 12 2 Hernando 0 6 3 6 W LWL y-Lee (Miss.) 4 1 6 5 x-Baldwyn 5 0 10 3 y-Kirk Aca. 3 2 8 5 DIVISION 4-4A y-Walnut 4 1 9 2 y-Indianola Aca. 3 2 7 5 Division Overall y-Mantachie 3 2 5 5 Lee (Ark.) 1 4 2 8 WLWL y-Hamilton 2 3 4 7 Carroll Aca. 0 5 0 11 x-West Point 6 0 11 2 Belmont 1 418 y-Noxubee Co. 5 1 12 3 Hatley05010 DISTRICT 3-A y-West Lauderdale 3 3 6 6 District Overall y-Kosciusko 3 3 95 DIVISION 2-2A WLWL New Hope 33 64 Division Overall x-Winona Chr. 5 0 9 3 Caledonia 1 5 3 7 WLWL y-Hebron Chr. 4 1 6 5 Neshoba Central 0 6 1 9 x-Eupora 5 0 11 1 Calhoun Aca. 3 2 3 7 y-Bruce 4 1 9 3 Tupelo Chr. 2 356 THOMAS WELLS DIVISION 1-3A y-J.Z. George 3 2 8 4 Central Aca. 1 4 1 9 Division Overall y-Ackerman 23 56 Immanuel 05 09 South Panola’s Nicholas Parker will try to fill Tig Barksdale’s shoes and keep the Tigers’ win- WLWL Water Valley 1 4 2 8 x–clinched division title x-Ripley60121Williams-Sullivan 0 5 0 10 y-clinched playoff berth ning streak intact. South Panola has won six straight division crowns. Match that coach! I Nine football teams in Northeast Mississippi have new head coaches this season. So grab a No. 2 – or, if you’re feeling cocky, a gel pen – and see if you can match up the coach with his new team. (Answers at bottom; no peeking!)

1. Mark Bray A. Vardaman

2. Leroy Gregg B. Okolona

3. Marty Warren C. Tupelo Christian

4. Ron Price D. Starkville Aca.

5. Aubrey Boren E. South Pontotoc

6. Justin Hollis F. Thrasher

7. Shannon McGregory G. New Albany

8. Jack Clark H. Oak Hill Aca.

9. Brian Sims I. Nettleton 1) E; 2) H; 3) B; 4) G; 5) C; 6) A; 7) F; 8) I; 9) D. 9) I; 8) F; 7) A; 6) C; 5) G; 4) B; 3) H; 2) E; 1)

The SOUTH’S BEST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SUBSCRIBE 1-800-270-2613 PAGE 54H I SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 Football Journal 2008 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL

they took care of us pretty well,” Programs he said. “They understood the 2008 SCHEDULES Continued from Page 49H situation and really worked well with us. I didn’t have to go buy some cheap equipment.” I Some games will be considered varsity contests. lege and NFL game, and so do I had to get the cheapest Another large matter is find- their parents and supporters. (equipment) I could get, ing a place to play home Houlka Wildcats New Site Royals “I think a lot of youngsters games. Houlka is renting Sept. 5 at Tupelo Christian* Aug. 29 Jumpertown see football on TV, and it and I’m in debt.” Houston’s stadium; Jumper- Sept. 11 Wheeler* Sept. 5 Wheeler* makes them interested in play- Josh Alford town plays all its games on the Sept. 20 at Aberdeen Sept. 12 at Hebron Christian* ing,” said Jumpertown princi- New Site coach road; New Site is using its jun- Sept. 25 New Site* Sept. 19 at Wheeler* pal Anthony Michaels. “ ior high school’s field (Mariet- Sept. 30 East Webster Sept. 25 at Houlka “Everything’s at a fever pitch ta); and Wheeler is playing on Oct. 17 at Wheeler* Sept. 30 at Walnut right now,” Houlka principal The jerseys and pants – sim- Thrasher’s. *–Varsity contest *–Varsity contest William Cotton said after Allen ple white – came from George Someday, each team will was hired in May. Watson, who owned Watson’s have its own home stadium – That’s great, but no matter Sporting Goods in Tupelo. Play- Jumpertown, coached by Jumpertown Cardinals Wheeler Eagles the amount of passion in- ers had to use their own shoes. George Moore, could have its Aug. 29 at New Site Aug. 29 Lake Cormorant volved, there is still the matter Suiting up players is costing facility finished by next spring. Sept. 2 at Biggersville Sept. 5 at New Site* of the bare essentials. New Site’s Alford a little more. Right now, each team is Sept. 8 TBA Sept. 11 at Houlka He said the school spent playing a JV schedule with Sept. 15 TBA Sept. 19 New Site* Buying and borrowing $12,000 on equipment, and games against varsity pro- Sept. 22 at Tishomingo Co. Sept. 26 Tupelo Christian* Fortunately for Mantachie, that’s just to get by this season. grams sprinkled in (example: Sept. 30 at Wheeler Oct. 17 Houlka head coach Mitch Grissom “I had to go with the cheap- Wheeler vs. Tupelo Christian). Oct. 7 TBA *–Varsity contest had a big-time connection: Ole est stuff I could get,” he said, Each program harbors the Miss coach . “and I’m in debt.” hope of putting a winning Grissom had played for the The Royals did get a few do- product on the field. Rebels prior to World War II. nations – practice jerseys and “That’s the thing that keeps He called up Vaught, who pants from Corinth and you going,” said Alford, “the gladly donated a “truckload” of Thrasher. chance to build your own pro- used equipment for the Mus- Houlka gave Allen a $25,000 gram.” tangs to use. budget for this year, and he Wilburn’s advice? “That was a show in itself,” was able to stow $1,200 of that “Be prepared,” he said. “And Wilburn said, “us trying to put into reserve. put your whole 100 percent that equipment on.” “The vendors around here, into it.”

Honda of T upelo 529 Daybrite Drive •Tupelo 842-5523 NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI DAILY JOURNAL Football Journal 2008 SUNDAY,AUGUST 24, 2008 I PAGE 55H

WEEKLY SCHEDULE (CONTINUED FROM P. 52) Looking back … Belmont at Baldwyn Biggersville at Vardaman Booneville at Tishomingo Co. J.Z. George at Bruce 2007 Division champs Calhoun City at Biggersville Water Valley at Bruce Bruce at Eupora West Oktibbeha at Calhoun City Division 1-5A: South Panola Booneville at North Pontotoc Thrasher at Calhoun City Calhoun City at Smithville Thrasher at Falkner Division 2-5A: Madison Central Ackerman at Bruce Kossuth at Corinth Corinth at North Pontotoc Mantachie at Hamilton Division 3-5A: Meridian Corinth at Mooreville East Webster at Okolona East Oktibbeha at East Webster Lewisburg at Holly Springs Division 4-5A: George Co. Falkner at East Webster West Lowndes at Falkner Hamilton at Walnut Houston at New Hope Division 1-4A: Itawamba AHS Richton at Hamilton Mantachie at Hatley Holly Springs at Byhalia Itawamba AHS at Pontotoc Division 2-4A: Clarksdale Rosa Fort at Holly Springs Broad Street at Holly Springs Houston at Nettleton Kossuth at Arlington, Tenn. Division 3-4A: Ridgeland Itawamba AHS at Heidelberg Winona at Houston Shannon at Itawamba AHS Gentry at Lafayette Co. Division 4-4A: West Point Ripley at Kossuth Itawamba AHS at Tishomingo Co. Mooreville at Kossuth North Pontotoc at Moorevile Division 5-4A: Laurel Clarksdale at Lafayette Co. Memphis Oakhaven at Lafayette Co. Lafayette Co. at Cleveland Nettleton at South Pontotoc Division 6-4A: Brookhaven Mantachie at Walnut Mooreville at Saltillo Saltillo at New Albany Byhalia at New Albany Division 7-4A: Moss Point Winona at Nettleton Nettleton at Caledonia Okolona at West Lowndes Oxford at Clarksdale Division 8-4A: Picayune Shannon at New Albany New Albany at Pontotoc Hernando at Oxford Center Hill at Saltillo Division 1-3A: Ripley Okolona at East Oktibbeha North Pontotoc at Ripley Pontotoc at Center Hill Tishomingo Co. at Shannon East Webster at Okolona Division 2-3A: Louisville North Panola at Oxford South Pontotoc at Winona Smithville at Vardaman Division 3-3A: Byhalia Pontotoc at Saltillo Oxford at Greenwood Starkville at Olive Branch Center Hill at Shannon South Panola at Starkville Division 4-3A: Velma Jackson Starkville at Horn Lake Vardaman at Thrasher West Oktibbeha at Thrasher Smithville at West Oktibbeha Horn Lake at Tupelo Division 5-3A: Newton Co. Tishomingo Co. at Center Hill Southaven at Starkville Tupelo at DeSoto Central Caledonia at West Point Division 6-3A: Hazlehurst Tupelo at Southaven South Panola at Tupelo West Point Neshoba Central Hebron Christian at Alpha Division 7-3A: South Pike Vardaman at West Lowndes West Lauderdale at West Point Kemper Aca. at Calhoun Aca. Starkville Aca. at Winston Aca. Division 8-3A: Greene Co. West Point at Kosciusko Hebron Christian at Calhoun Aca. Winona Christian at Hebron Christian Tupelo Christian at WMCS Division 1-2A: Baldwyn Calhoun Aca. at Central Aca. Delta at Marshall Aca. Marshall Aca. at Carroll Aca. Idle: East Webster, Calhoun Aca., Mar- Division 2-2A: Eupora Tupelo Christian at Hebron Christian Leake Aca. at Oak Hill Aca. Oak Hill Aca. at Magnolia Heights shall Aca., Oak Hill Aca. Division 3-2A: West Bolivar WMCS at Marshall Aca. Starkville Aca. at Washington Lamar at Starkville Aca. Division 4-2A: South Delta Oak Hill Aca. at Lamar Tupelo Christan at North Delta Immanuel Christian at Tupelo Christan NOV. 7 Division 5-2A: Philadelphia Jackson Aca. at Starkville Aca. East Oktibbeha at Biggersville Division 6-2A: Saints Andrew’ OCT. 24 OCT. 31 East Webster at West Lowndes Division 7-2A: Taylorsville OCT. 17 Aberdeen at West Oktibbeha Amory at Aberdeen Falkner at Smithville Division 8-2A: North Forrest Aberdeen at Louisville Ripley at Alcorn Central Alcorn Central at Corinth Okolona at Thrasher Division 1-1A: East Webster Alcorn Central at Booneville Louisville at Amory Baldwyn at Walnut Columbus at Starkville Division 2-1A: Ray Brooks Amory at South Pontotoc Hatley at Baldwyn Belmont at Hatley Tupelo at Olive Branch Division 3-1A: Weir Baldwyn at Hamilton Belmont at Mantachie Biggersville at Okolona Vardaman at West Oktibbeha Division 4-1A: Puckett Walnut at Belmont Falkner at Biggersville Booneville at Ripley Idle: Calhoun City

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