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ALBERT CESARE/OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS Pages 12-13 2 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 AUBURN HIGH TIGERS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Tigers have bright outlook with 34 seniors returning BY JASON GALLOWAY [email protected] Game Night Guide Some of the big names have » Nickname: Tigers moved on, most notably line- » Colors: Blue and white backer Reuben Foster and » Stadium: Duck Samford quarterback Cameron Echols- (8,310) Luper. Auburn » Location: Intersection of But a number of potential sophomore Glenn Avenue and East Univer- Division-I players — including quarterback sity Drive Rashaan Evans, Blaise Taylor, Bradley » Admission: $7 Antreal Allen, Darian Yancy, Northcutt will » Parking: $2 behind stadium, Mike Turner and Selwyn and start under free across East University and Delwyn Torbert — are part of a center for Glenn long list of 34 seniors back for the Tigers » Radio: WINGS (94.3 FM), this season. another shot at a deep playoff ESPN (106.5 FM) and WANI Northcutt run. (1400 AM) saw some » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. “I really like this group,” Au- significant burn High head coach Tim » Last playoff appearance: playing time 2012 Carter said. “They’re a good last year as a group of kids. They work ex- backup. tremely hard. They had a lot to do with our success last year. ALBERT CESARE/ “I feel like as long as we “We’ve had a great offseason. [email protected] execute and do what we’re They’ve displayed great lead- supposed to do, our defense ership. From a head coach, Offensively, Auburn High re- year’s season opener at Valley he was going to play at all.” should be one of our strong that means we haven’t had a turns an experienced offensive and briefly during the team’s Carter added, “I was most lot of problems. They took care line along with senior tight end second-round playoff victory proud of him in the McGill- points this year. (We) should of business in the classroom. Kyle Sikes. at McGill-Toolen, the offense Toolen game. Bradley came be able to hold teams to about They’ve stayed out of trouble, Although sophomore quar- barely missed a beat. in and on two consecutive the same numbers as we did and they’ve just been good cit- terback Bradley Northcutt and “We have a lot of confidence drives we got first downs and last year, if not better.” izens, so that’s something that other skill position players still in (Bradley), especially me,” on the second drive we actu- Blaise Taylor, excites me.” have much to prove, Carter Taylor said. “I saw flashes of ally scored. He led us down the Auburn High cornerback, wide receiver On the field, the Tigers could said the Tigers have five or six his potential and his greatness field. And that was a pressure be just as good. running backs who could earn last year. He came in the Valley situation. That was a packed All the aforementioned col- reps, and Northcutt’s potential game and threw a deep post to house in the second round throughout the season, the Ti- lege prospects are returning looked promising in his time me that was right on the mon- against a very good football gers — ranked fourth entering starters in either the second- on the field as a freshman. ey. It was a great throw, and he team.” the season — will be as good a ary or along the defensive line, When Northcutt had to re- kind of got thrown into the heat If some of Auburn High’s bet as any to make a deep play- something that should allow place Echols-Luper during last of the battle and didn’t know younger players develop off run. four new starters at linebacker the time to grow as the season At A Glance 250); OL Dalton Wall (Sr., 5-10, El (Sr.); QB Bradley Northcutt liams, DB Zay Lockhart, QB/DB progresses. 200); OL Tristan Corbin (Sr., 5-11, (So.); WR Daniel Moore (Sr.); Cameron Echols-Luper, RB » Head coach: Tim Carter, 8th Maintaining a defense that 230) RB Jadarius Drummonds (Sr.); Cameron Reese, RB Gevon Jones, year (67-17), 12th overall (85-41) held six opponents to 10 points » Returning defensive starters RB Jacob Hardy (Jr.); LB Randy WR DeMikyle Holmes » Assistant coaches: Jason Da- or less last year is an attainable (7): CB Taylor; DE Rashaan Evans Hooks (Jr.); Tyus Flakes (So.); DL vis, Mike Glisson, Willie Hutchin- goal for a team coming off a (Sr., 6-2, 215); CB Antreal Allen Wesley Hutson (Sr.); LB Shelby son, Anthony Jeter, Rob McKin- 2013 Schedule Class 6A quarterfinal appear- (Sr., 5-9, 150); S Selwyn Torbert Gulledge (Jr.); LB Ben Coleman nell, Ja-mie Rice, Avery Warner, » Aug. 30 vs. Valley ance. (Sr., 6-1, 185); S Delwyn Torbert (Jr.); OL Christian Reyes (Sr.); Les Sanders » Sept. 6 vs. Jeff Davis * “I feel like as long as we ex- (Sr., 6-1, 185); DL Darian Yancy OL Bailey Morris (Sr.); DL Jesus » 2012 record: 11-2 (6-1 region); » Sept. 13 at Smiths Station * ecute and do what we’re sup- (Sr., 6-3, 210); DL Mike Turner Alvarez (Sr.); DL Bubba Soren- lost, 8-7,to Opelika in 6A quarter- » Sept. 19 at Sidney Lanier * posed to do, our defense (Sr., 5-11, 240) son (Jr.); OL Kenny Willis (Sr.); finals » Sept. 27 vs. Gadsden City should be one of our strong » Other contributors: LB Hunter OL Jake Vickers (Sr.); DL Travis » Offense: Spread » Oct. 4 at Carver-Montgomery * points this year,” said Taylor, Roland (Jr., 6-0, 220); WR Trey Vickerstaff (Sr.) » Defense: 4-3 » Oct. 11 vs. Central * a starter at cornerback and Jones (Sr., 5-10, 170); RB Cordell » Key losses: OL Will Boler,TE » Returning offense starters » Oct. 18 vs. Lee-Montgomery * wide receiver. “(We) should be Bat-tle (Jr.); TE Griffin Riggs (Jr.); Maltiece O’Neal El, LB Harrison (5): WR Blaise Taylor (Sr., 5-8, » Oct. 25 at Opelika * able to hold teams to about the DB Daron Hooks (Jr.); RB James Riggs, LB Reuben Foster, LB 160 ); TE Kyle Sikes (Sr., 5-11, » Nov. 1 at East Limestone same numbers as we did last Askew (Sr.); WR Tyus O’Neal Parker Heideman, LB Austin Wil- year, if not better.” 190); OL John David Hart (Sr., 6-1, *Class 6A-Region 3 games OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com CENTRAL RED DEVILS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 3 Experienced Red Devils ‘expecting’ better season

BY JASON GALLOWAY season. I’ve seen a lot of individ- Jo Jo Ray (Sr., 5-11, 185); DB [email protected] At A Glance Game Night Guide ual development. I’ve seen some Chris Jones (Sr., 5-11, 180); » Head coach: Woodrow Seven-win seasons aren’t easy to » Nickname: Red Devils better things on defense, I’ve seen DB Josh Morgan (Sr., 5-9, Lowe, 4th year (27-9), 8th come by in high school football. » Colors: Red and black some better things on offense, 175); DL Jeruel Hunter (Jr., overall (46-31) When a team comes off a three- » Stadium: Garrett-Harrison and even on the special teams I’ve 6-0, 235) » Assistant coaches: year stretch where it wins 30, (8,500) seen some better things.” » Returning special teams Joel Babb, Matt Bell, Bryce though — as Central had going » Location: Summerville Road & The schedule will make an im- starters (2): K Cameron Ciancio, Adrian Lyles, Rob into last season — it can change U.S. Hyw 80 in Phenix City provement in win-loss record Herring (Jr., 5-11, 175); LS Morales, Ray Vickers, Keith perception quite dramatically. » Admission: $7 rather difficult. The Red Devils Levi Boleware (Jr., 5-8, 175) Wicker, Brandon Avery, Even in a region as tough as » Parking: $3 at stadium received the 15th-most votes in » Key losses: DL Jeremiah Scotty King, Zack Berklin Class 6A-Region 3, a Red Devils » Radio: Magic (98.3 FM) the ASWA preseason poll and are Payne, DL Derrick King, LB » 2012 record: 7-4 (5-2 team returning 18 starters won’t » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. (CST) still ranked behind No. 4 Auburn, Akil Perry, ILB Cedric Cham- region), lost, 43-13, to Spain be satisfied with another first- » Last playoff appearance: 2012 No. 5 Opelika and No. 10 Carver- bers, DL Shaq Nickerson, DL Park in 6A first round round playoff exit. Montgomery in Class 6A-Region Jason Smith, OL Markeith » Offense: Multiple “I’dsay we did OK (last year), but 3. Bennett, OL Cameron Fra- » Defense: Multiple I know it could have been better,” The most talented of the bunch Even so, Central came seconds ser, LB DeAngelo Morales, » Returning offensive safety Christian Campbell said. could be junior running back/ away from defeating theTigers last RB/WR Deon Hall, P/KO starters (7): OL Varlio “We lost in the first round of the receiver Traveon Samuel, a 5- season — which would have made Chance Chandler, OLB Wilson (Sr., 5-11, 305); playoffs, and that hurt a lot of se- foot-9, 180-pounder who already the Red Devils region champions Sayveon Ford, DB Jimmon WR/RB Traveon Samuel (Jr., niors and a lot of juniors. It wasn’t has offers from a host of major instead of a No. 4 seed — and Watkins 5-9, 180); RB Kenny Thomas all that we could do. We could programs. Head coach Wood- Lowe believes his team has put in (Jr., 5-10, 211); WR/RB Ryan have done better, I know that. row Lowe said he expects to have the work to be ahead of where it Humphrey (Sr., 5-10, 190); 2013 Schedule “I’m expecting a way better sea- plenty of other weapons around was at this point last year. WR/RB Khaled Berk-lin (Sr., » Aug. 29 vs. Russell County son.” Samuel at the skill positions. “I think right now, the biggest 6-0, 205); LT Chance Collins » Sept. 5 at Carver- Central got some unexpected “(Samuel) has been very pro- strength I have is them being to- (Sr., 6-2, 230); TE/OL Juron Montgomery * news in the summer when in- ductive in our system, and I look gether as a team,” Lowe said. “I Jones (Sr., 5-10, 225) » Sept. 13 vs. Opelika * cumbent starting quarterback Ja- for him to continue to do what think right now we’re ahead of the » Returning defensive » Sept. 20 vs. Lee- mal Howard decided to forgo his he’s always done,” Lowe said. team we had last year by being to- starters (11): DL Quann Montgomery * senior football season to focus his “People know we’ve got Traveon gether. I’ve seen some situations Johnson (Jr., 6-2, 255); OLB » Sept.27atEastCoweta attention on baseball, the sport Samuel. They knew last year and here over the last six or seven Kendrick Hillion (Sr., 5-11, (Ga.) he’s signed on to play at the Uni- they knew the year before that, months that I know these guys 205); DL Jordan Strong » Oct. 4 vs. Jeff Davis * versity of Alabama. too. We’ve got other guys that are can come together to get it done. (Sr., 6-2, 230); FS Christian » Oct. 11 at Auburn * That leaves junior Ethan Baber going to step up. They already “We tell them,‘This is your team. Campbell (Sr., 6-2, 180); DL » Oct. 17 at Sidney Lanier * as the likely starter under center. know it. We’re going to coach you hard. Camarcus Williams (Jr., 6-2, » Oct. 25 vs. Smiths He started two games last year “During the offseason, especial- We’re going to be consistent with 250); DL/OLB Walter Pritch- Station * and will have plenty of options ly at this level, you’ve got guys that what we expect and demand. You ett (So., 6-1, 205); DB John » Nov. 1 at Stanhope Elmore around him offensively to make you’re looking to come through. just got to give it all back at the ap- Broussard (So., 6-1, 175); DB *Class 6A-Region 3 games his life easier. You tell them at the end of the propriate time.’”

OPEN SUNDAYS! 4 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 OPELIKA BULLDOGS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Bulldogs longing for 2nd shot at state title BY JASON GALLOWAY star Alabama commitment bring that to the table and then [email protected] Stephen Roberts at cornerback Game Night Guide try to get guys to fill those roles At A Glance Opelika got a taste of being — of a secondary that should » Nickname: Bulldogs on the field for us, too.” » Head coach: Brian Black- one of the state’s dominant be able to match up with just » Colors: Red and black Opelika also won’t be sneak- mon, 5th year (28-16) Class 6A programs during last about any in the state. » Stadium: Bulldog Stadium ing up on anyone this year — » Assistant coaches: Buster year’s playoffs. Junior quarterback Matthew (8,000) quite the opposite, actually. Daniel, Alex Dowdell, Adam After a third-place finish in Christian now has 15 starts un- » Location: ½ mile north of Hwy “I believe that before the Massey, Bryan Moore, Mike Region 3, the Bulldogs sur- der center, and wide receiver 431/29 intersection, past the (2012) playoffs, we were the Murray, Lamar Prescott, Erik prised everyone with four Marquise Fulton—aDivi- school on the left team that was trying to beat ev- Speakman, Brandon Johnson, straight postseason wins and a sion-I prospect who caught » Admission: $7 erybody, and now that we made Ben Landers, Jimmy Johnson, spot in the state championship the game-winning touchdown » Parking: Free the run that we did, everybody Kenny Prescott, Jonathan game at Jordan-Hare Stadium. against Auburn High in last » Radio: WKKR (97.7 FM) wants to beat Opelika,” Mitch- Chandler With many key players back year’s quarterfinals — also re- » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. ell said. “Everybody wants to » 2012 record: 10-5 (5-2 entering 2013, the expecta- turns. » Last playoff appearance: beat us now.” region); lost, 31-0, to Hoover in tions surrounding the program Despite the positive outlook 2012 But Opelika remains confi- 6A state championship — and within it — have a much for a team ranked No. 5 in the dent that it has enough talent » Offense: Spread different feel. state heading into the season, special teams unit last season. — and now the experience — to » Defense: 4-2-5 “Now we can no longer say Opelika’s title chances took a “You can’t replace him,” win the South again and make » Returning offensive that we’ve never been there,” hit when three-star Auburn Blackmon said. “I think you’ve it back to the state title game. starters (4): QB Matthew Opelika head coach Brian University commitment Jakell got to get all those roles that he This time around, the Bull- Christian (Jr., 6-2, 185); OL Blackmon said. “Now it’s not Mitchell tore his ACL in late played and try to fill them with a dogs don’t plan on stopping Drew Kyser (Jr., 6-4, 290); OL just about being there. It’s June. bunch of different people. He’s there. Ashton Merritt (Sr., 6-3, 285); about finishing that. We’ve got It was the worst player the not only a dynamic player, but “Since we made it last year WR Marquise Fulton (Sr., 6-3, an unfinished task at hand, Bulldogs could lose. The 6- he’s also such a dynamic per- and we didn’t quite finish, our 205) and our kids are dying to get an foot-3, 215-pounder played sonality that everything he did goal this year is to finish,” Rob- » Returning defensive opportunity to do it again.” tight end, H-back, running permeated through our team, erts said. “I have great confi- starters (6): DT Jerred Gentry Back for the Bulldogs are the back, wildcat back, defensive so we’ve got to try to hang onto dence. If we make it this year, I (Jr., 6-3, 300); LB Marquise core pieces — including four- end and had a part on every that part of what he does and know we’re going to take it.” Wright (Sr., 6-1, 230); LB Roy Yancey (Jr., 6-1, 195); SS Malcolm Buggs (Sr., 5-11, 200); CB Stephen Roberts (Sr., 6-0, 175); CB Aldreecous Wilson (Sr., 5-11, 170) » Other contributors: TE Kyle Fourtenbarry (So., 6-4, 205); WR Ladarious Gopher (Sr., 5-10, 170); RB Reggie Hall (Sr., 6-2, 195); RB Jarquavious Crawford (Sr., 5-10, 185); DT Chase Baker (Sr., 6-2, 290); DE Quandeski Whitlow (Jr., 6-4, 220); FS Car- trell Washington (Sr., 6-1, 170) » Key losses: RB Calvin Bry- ant, DL Martin Scott 2013 Schedule » Aug. 30 vs. Benjamin Russell » Sept. 6 at Lee-Montgomery * » Sept. 13 at Central * » Sept. 20 vs. Carver- Montgomery * » Sept. 27 at Valley » Oct. 4 vs. Sidney Lanier * » Oct. 11 vs. Smiths Station * » Oct. 18 at Jeff Davis * » Oct. 25 vs. Auburn * ALBERT CESARE/[email protected] » Oct. 31 vs. Hoover Opelika quarterback Matthew Christian, pictured here during preseason practice, helped lead the Bulldogs to their first-ever state championship *Class 6A-Region 3 games game last year. OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com PREP BLITZ 2013 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 5

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www.theorthoclinic.com Opelika: (334) 749-8303 • SportsMed: (334) 742-6408 6 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 SMITHS STATION PANTHERS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Plenty of experience returns for hungry Panthers BY JASON GALLOWAY [email protected] Gilmore threw just two interceptions Game Night Guide in 10 games last season and passed for At A Glance » Nickname: Panthers Mark Rose knows how difficult it will more than 1,000 yards, no small feat in » Head coach: Mark Rose, 6th year » Colors: Black and silver be to make the playoffs in Class 6A-Re- an offense that rarely throws the ball. (24-28), 16th overall (122-44) » Stadium: Panther Stadium gion 3 this season, even with his Smiths Rose may be able to open up the of- » Assistant coaches: Clinton Britton, » Location: Lee Road 298, one block Station team returning 16 starters from fense this season with Gilmore under Roy Brown, Randy Daniels, Rusty Da- west of Lee Road 298-Lee Road 430 last season and seven players who are center. vis, Johnny Faulk, Cody Fluornoy, Jared junction entering their third year atop the depth “Jerrell’sa smart football player,” Rose Harrelson, Adam Johnson, Jeff Carrero, » Admission: $7 chart. said. “It’s big because he knows what Cencade Pennington, Tommy Sanders » Parking: Free Once the Panthers are in, though, it takes to win, and he’s a really smart » 2012 record: 5-5 (3-4 region) » Radio: WMXA (96.7 FM) there’s no telling what could happen. football player. He’s improved himself » Offense: Multiple » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. (CST) “If you can compete with these physically. He runs better. He’s much » Defense: 4-3 » Last playoff appearance: 2010 teams, one through four, whoever stronger, and so I’m looking for a big » Returning offensive starters (8): makes it from this region has a chance, year from him.” RB Devante Marshall (Sr., 5-9, 175)/J.J. and Opelika proved that last year,” the There were only seven seniors who Rose also said he continues to see an Dancy (Sr., 5-9, 175); WR Johnny head coach said. “Always, our goal is played for Smiths Station last season, improving work ethic among his play- Woods (Sr., 6-2, 202); WR Ledarian to win the state championship. If you and Rose said the increase in team ers. Many have been traveling to extra Heath (Sr., 6-4. 190); QB Jerrell Gilm- make the playoffs, you’ve got a chance speed this year was noticeable during camps in the offseason, and Rose even ore (Sr., 6-0, 185); OT Justin Wimberly at that. Our No. 1 goal is to make the the Panthers’ spring game. Among the took eight with him to Samford’s camp (Sr., 5-11, 310); TE Levi White (Sr., 5-11, playoffs. We do that, then we’ve got returners are speedster running backs earlier this summer. 185); C John Kittrell (Sr., 6-0, 280); OG a chance to do what we’re here for to Devante Marshall and J.J. Dancy, who He also knows that hard work now Devan Miller (Sr., 5-10, 240) start with, and that’s play for a state run 4.37 and 4.47 40-yard dash times. needs to be compounded with an abil- » Returning defensive starters (8): championship.” “We’ve got a lot of experience,” said ity to win close games against some of CB Marshall, LB Woods, SS Heath, LB Rose — who led Smiths Station to wide receiver/linebacker Johnny the region’s toughest competition. Anfernee Moffett (Sr., 5-11, 220); LB the postseason in 2010 — said his Woods, a three-year starter on both “They’re extremely hungry, and Amonte Caban (Jr., 6-2, 215); CB Trey team last year was the best he’s had in sides of the ball. “We’ve got everybody they’ve worked as hard as I could ever Harris (6-0, 165); OLB Marcus Maddox his five years at the school. After put- coming back from last year that start- ask of them,” Rose said. “It’s not com- (6-1, 185); FS Nigel Lawrence (6-0, ting up fights against rival Central and ed, so we’re looking forward to it. ing from me anymore. They do it be- 170) eventual-state-runner-up Opelika, the “We’re very hungry. It starts in the cause they want to win and they know » Other contributors: LT Ladarius Panthers still fell one win shy of the offseason, working hard and lifting how to work. Wilson (Jr., 6-0, 280); RG Dujuan postseason. weights. Then going out there and “To me, we haven’t done anything. It Simmons (Jr., 5-9, 260); WR/SS Tre This season looks even more promis- competing, playing hard.” starts Aug. 30 against Enterprise, and Trimble (Jr., 6-0, 180); WR Jaylen ing, with most of the team’s best ath- The Panthers also have the luxury of a we’ve got to finish games and finish re- Jones (Sr., 5-11, 160); WB/CB Kenny letes returning. three-year starter at quarterback. Jerrell gion games and get in the playoffs.” Wimberly (Jr., 5-9, 180); TE Coleman Rose (Jr., 6-0, 190); K Harrison Jones (So., 5-9, 155); DE Clay Edmonds (Jr., 6-1, 205); DE Julian Monds (Sr., 6-0, 185); DE Vada King (So., 6-1, 210); DE Levi White (Sr., 5-11, 190); CB Renold Williams (So., 5-9, 160); CB K.J. John- son (So., 5-11, 170) » Key losses: DE Doniaven Kilpatrick, DE Chris Perusck, LB Tim Hester, OL Zach Sidman 2013 Schedule » Aug. 30 vs. Enterprise Smiths Station » Sept. 6 vs. Sidney Lanier * quarterback Jerrell » Sept. 13 vs. Auburn * Gilmore threw just » Sept. 20 at Jeff Davis * two interceptions in 10 games last » Sept. 27 vs. Beauregard season as a junior » Oct. 3 at Lee-Montgomery * and passed for » Oct. 11 at Opelika * more than 1,000 » Oct. 18 vs. Carver-Montgomery * yards. » Oct. 25 at Central * » Nov. 1 at Valley

ALBERT CESARE/ *Class 6A-Region 3 games [email protected] OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com VALLEY RAMS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 7 Harper ready to lead Rams back to glory BY RYAN WOOD ence on his roster. Valley has 19 [email protected] At A Glance starters (6): DE Ty Martin; Game Night Guide seniors this fall, many of whom LB Japi Robinson (Sr., 5-9, » Head coach: Marshon It was Marshon Harper’s dream » Nickname: Rams are returning starters. The Rams 230), DE Jeremiah Darden Harper, 1st season (0-0) to return to his alma mater as a » Colors: Orange and blue return four regular receivers, (Jr., 5-10, 200); CB Terron » Assistant coaches: Adam coach, but even he never expect- » Stadium: Rams Stadium three starting offensive linemen Barker (Jr., 5-11, 155); S Hunter, George Grimes, Domi- ed to be the man in charge. (5,000) and more than half its defense. Matravious Williams (Jr., 5-9, nique Jackson, Jonas House, Harper, the first-year coach at » Location: Exit 77 off I-85, turn Harper, who will also be the 165), S Broski Peterson Ryan Smith, Stevie Coker, Valley High, simply wanted to right on Fob James Drive, right at team’s defensive coordinator and » Other contributors: S Mario Walker, Ryan Winston help in whatever spot was open. first light, right onto Sportsplex safeties coach, said his players Cam McCray; OLB Amortez » 2012 record: 5-6 (5-2 Re- For 15 years, he’s been at his old Road have a strong leadership role in Moody; DE Rye Shiver; DE gion); lost to Vigor, 29-14, in school, toiling as an assistant » Admission: $7 his program. Hudson Shoemaker first round of the 5A playoffs coach. Now, the former Rams » Parking: Free “It’s going to help us out a lot,” » Offense: Multiple quarterback who led the pro- » Radio: 100.9 FM Harper said. “The kids have » Defense: 3-4 2013 Schedule gram to consecutive semifinals » Home kickoff: 7p.m.(CT) bought into it.They know what we » Returning offensive » Aug. 30 at Auburn appearances in the early 1990s » Last playoff appearance: 2012 expect from them. They come out — losing to Auburn receivers and work hard every day. They’ve starters (7): WR Cedric » Sept. 6 at Rehobeth * coach Dameyune Craig’s Blount moment and working hard.” been doing an excellent job in the Chambers (Sr., 5-8, 170); WR » Sept. 13 vs. Carroll * High team as a senior — is tasked Harper has the things you’d ex- leadership aspect. When a young Frankie Hutchinson (Sr., 5-7, » Sept. 20 at Benjamin with bringing the program back pect to find on a first-year coach’s kid makes a mistake, they get on 160); WR Davion Bailey (Sr., Russell * to glory. wish list. There is the ample expe- them and hold them account- 5-5, 165); RB Deon Johnson » Sept. 27 vs. Opelika “It was a dream of mine to al- rience he’s already built at Valley, able. It helps a lot.” (Sr., 5-8, 170); OL Bryan » Oct. 4 vs. Eufaula * ways come back and help out and Harper praised his assistant After a first-round playoff exit McMackin (Sr., 5-11, 200); C » Oct. 11 at BTW * and coach at my old high school,” coaching staff for helping him last fall, Valley hopes to build Logan Ragsdale (6-1, 220); » Oct. 18 at Russell County * Harper said, “but never in a mil- make a smooth transition. off that postseason experience. OL Logan Cotney (Sr., 5-10, » Oct. 25 vs. Marbury * lion years did I think I’d be the But, perhaps most important, Harper said he’s set “realistic 210) » Nov. 1 vs. Smiths Station head coach. I’m just taking in the Harper has a wealth of experi- goals” for his team. » Returning defensive *Class 5A-Region 2 games it’s riding a bike! Buy New • Rent a Bike • Repair • Tune Up

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1306 BROADWAY • COLUMBUS, GA. • 706.324.1132 • rideonbikes.com 8 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 TALLASSEE TIGERS & BTW GOLDEN EAGLES OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Tigers ready to take aim at another run in the playoffs BY JUSTIN LEE coach. [email protected] Game Night Guide At A Glance » Returning defensive Paschal, QB Jed Carter, Rather than being bit- starters (6): DE Ben OL Corbin Hammonds, OL » Nickname: Tigers » Head coach: Mike Last season, the Tallas- ter, the Tigers are using Graham (Jr., 6-0, 255); LB Jesse Rowlen, LB Taylor » Colors: Purple and gold Battles, 2nd year (9-3), see Tigers came up a foot last season as motivation Drew Baker (Sr., 5-10, 190); Marshall, DL Bo Sanders » Stadium: Hot O’Brien 17th overall (126-58) short of the third round of and a reminder of what LB Rob-bie Rygiel (Sr., 5-8, Stadium » Assistant coaches: the Class 4A playoffs. they are capable of with a 180); LB Blake Ware (Jr., » Location: Hwy. 14, a Dustin Cook, Will Glaze, 2013 Schedule Facing off against Dora lot of work and little luck. 6-0, 205); CB Braxton Han- mile west of school Danny Worley, Eric Cable, » Aug. 30 at BTW in the second round and “Every team says, ‘We’re cock (Sr., 5-10, 170); CB DJ » Admission: $6 Scott Justiss, Brad Elam, » Sept. 6 at Bullock trailing, 41-40, in over- trying to win a state Rivers (Sr., 5-8, 180) » Parking: Free John Goodman, John Mask County * time, first-year head championship,’” Battles » Other contributors: » Radio: WTLS (1300 AM) » 2012 record: 9-3 (6-1 » Sept. 13 vs Charles coach Mike Battles called said. “There’s not but QB Seth Golden (Sr., 5-8, » Home kickoff time: region); lost, 41-40 OT,to Henderson * for his Tigers to go for a about 10 of them that’s 165); WR Michael Trimble 7 p.m. Dora in 4A second round » Sept. 20 at Headland * potential game-winning going to have a chance. I (Jr., 6-2, 190); OL Brock » Last playoff » Offense: Pro style » Sept. 27 vs. Dadeville 2-point conversion rath- think our kids understand Hammock (Jr., 6-3, 255); » Defense: 3-4 » Oct. 4 vs. Ashford * er than kicking an extra that, last year, you know, OL Tyler Bufford (Jr., 6-2, » Returning offensive » Oct. 11 at American point to extend overtime. we were one of those 10. 205); C Robbie Lynch (So., starters (3): TE Devontae Christian * The Tigers handed it close. That’s the game of Had the ball bounced an- 5-9, 195); OL Jake Baker McKenzie (Sr., 6-1, 205); » Oct. 18 vs. St. James * off. The Dora defense football.” other way, we might have (Fr., 6-1, 245); OL Justin RB Herman McKenzie » Oct. 25 vs. Beauregard * closed in. When the dust The loss didn’t keep been in that third, fourth Creamer (Jr., 6-0, 205); DB (Jr., 5-9, 185); FB Brandon » Nov. 1 at Elmore County settled, the Tallassee run- Tallassee down for long. round. BJ Thomas (Sr., 5-9, 170) Baynes (Jr., 5-9, 195) * Class 4A-Region 2 games ner was ruled just short of Battles says his team was “Our kids used the mo- » Key losses: WR Dijon the goal line, ending the disappointed for about a tivation of: ‘We can. It’s Tigers’ season. week before they started not just a dream. We re- 2013, as they return a sol- The Tigers will face spring. “If you’re a Dora fan, looking ahead to 2013 ally might could if every- id core of key players on challenges on offense, “I think we’ll play more they stopped us,” Battles — Tallassee’s second thing goes right.’” the defensive side of the however, replacing their sound defense,” Battles said. “If you’re a Tallassee year in Class 4A-Region 2 Everything just may ball, hoping to improve in quarterback and entire said. “Our secondary fan, we got in. It was that and with Battles as head go right for the Tigers in their second year in Bat- offensive line, as well as players are veterans, our tles’ 3-4 defensive scheme ASWA All-State player Di- linebackers are veterans, after a tough transition jon Paschal, who signed and we’ve got some good from the 4-3 last season. with Arkansas State in the defensive linemen. “

BTW Golden Eagles At A Glance Williams (Sr., 6-1, 275); DL » Oct. 11 vs. Valley * Quintavious Jackson (Jr., » Oct. 18 at Marbury * » Head coach: Maurice 6-0, 240); LB Jamerious » Oct. 25 vs. Russell Heard, 3rd year (3-17) Miles (Jr., 5-9, 200); DB County * » Assistant coaches: Sanders; DL Hairston; » Nov.1atLee- Leon Day, Xavier Smith, DL Lakeneric Uzzle (Jr., Montgomery Terrance Bogan, Tracy 6-0, 260); DL Martin; DB *Class 5A-Region 2 Stacy, Jerome Temple, Fitzpatrick games Lionel Armstead, Robert » Other key contribu- Johnson tors: QB Lewis O’Neal » 2012 record: 2-8 (1-6 Game Night Guide (So., 6-0, 180); QB Ronnie region) » Nickname: Golden Holmes (Fr., 6-1, 185); CB » Offense: Multiple Eagles Darryle Powell (So., 5-8, » Defense: 4-3 » Colors: Purple and gold 170); OL/DL Michael Wil- » Returning offensive » Stadium: Eagle Star liams (Sr., 6-4, 280) starters (6): RB Kelvin Stadium (4,000) Key (Sr., 5-9, 170); WR » Location: Behind Kjamus Sanders (Sr., 5-11, 2013 schedule: school on MLK Highway in 160); OL Walter Hairston » Aug. 30 vs. Tallassee Tuskegee (Sr., 6-3, 300); OC Court- » Sept. 6 vs. Eufaula * » Admission: $6 ney Gibson (Jr., 5-9, 250); » Sept. 13 at Benjamin » Parking: $5 OL Ladarius Martin (Jr., Russell * » Radio: None 5-11, 240); WR Rashun » Sept. 20 at Carroll * » Home kickoff time: Fitzpatrick (Jr., 5-9, 165) » Sept. 27 vs. Bullock 7 p.m. » Returning defensive County » Last playoff starters (8): DL Tyrell » Oct. 4 Rehobeth * appearance: 1992 OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com PREP BLITZ 2013 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 9

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227 Eastern Blvd | Montgomery, AL | jackingram.com | 866.272.9011 10 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 LAFAYETTE BULLDOGS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com New coach focused on building championship program BY MIKE SZVETITZ He’s most known for his time [email protected] Game Night Guide (Jr., 5-9, 160); RB Lashawn with the Dallas Desperados of the At A Glance » Nickname: Bulldogs Howell (Jr., 5-7,150); TE/DL Dialleo Burks’ plan doesn’t come Arena Football League from 2001- » Head coach: Dialleo Burks, » Colors: Black and gold Trevond Barnes (Jr., 6-7,185); from arrogance or inflated expec- 07. 1st year (0-0) » Stadium: Bulldog Stadium OL/DL Jeremy Vines (Sr., 6-1, tations. It comes from his desire to Burks said his resume gives him » Assistant coaches: Corey (3,500) 240); QB Kentrell Hollaway be the best, in everything he does. instant credibility with his new Thorton, Don Turner, Michael » Location: First Ave., in LaFayette, (Jr., 5-9, 170) He was that way as a player, and team, and has helped them buy in Pattillo, Michael Bratcher, a mile east of Hwy. 431 » Key losses: QB Qua Boyd; now, in his first season running a that much faster. Obadiah Threadgill, Kane » Admission: $7 WR/DB Joe Vines; WR/ DB high school football program, he’s Burks, however, understands Bradfield, Chris Carlile, » Parking: Free JaQuanteiz Whitlow; RB that way as a coach. you can’t have success without Stephen Miller » Radio: None Stephen Bledsoe Sure, LaFayette finished 5-5 last » Home kickoff time: 7p.m. building a solid foundation. » 2012 record: 5-5 (2-5 year and plays in a tough and com- »Last playoff appearance: 2011 And once the basics are mas- region) petitive Class 2A-Region 5, but tered, Burks said he’ll increase the » Offense: Multiple 2013 schedule: that’s not going to stop Burks from ing to give them every possibility learning curve, offensively and de- » Defense: 3-5 » Aug. 30 at Loachapoka preparing his team for champion- and every situation to give them a fensively. » Returning offensive » Sept. 6 vs. Lanett * ships, even in his first season with chance to be successful.” “I have a wide receiver mental- starters (2): WR Qunitavi- » Sept. 13 vs. Randolph the Bulldogs. Burks’ first ring came at La- ity,” he said about his offense. “I ous Whitlow (Jr., 5-11, 165); County * “I told them my expectations, Grange (Ga.) High School where would love to throw it 100 times OL Kelsey Findley (Sr., 5-10, » Sept. 20 at Prattville I have high expectations,” said he was part of a state champion- a game if we could, but that’s not 260) Christian * Burks, who played football colle- ship team that was also voted the what we can do. We’re going to re- » Returning defensive » Sept. 27 at Abbeville giately and professionally. “I have best in the nation in 1991. While late our offense to what our play- starters (3): DL Findley; » Oct. 4 at Horseshoe Bend * five rings. My goal is to win a state at Eastern Kentucky, Burks was ers do best. For me, it’s the little LB Jacari Whitlow (Sr., 6-2, » Oct. 11 vs. Isabella * championship. I’m not going into part of three Ohio Valley Confer- things — being able to line up 230); LB Mitchell Ross (Sr., » Oct. 18 vs. Montgomery any situation without wanting to ence championship teams. His right. You have to be able to do the 5-10, 185) Academy * be the best. final championship ring came in little things before you can run a » Other contributors: » Oct. 25 at Reeltown * “I’m going to give them a state 1998 as part of NFL Europe’sWorld play, because that can get you in OL/DL Aquandas Ware (Sr., » Nov. 1 vs. Bullock County championship plan. We’re go- Bowl champion Rhein Fire. the most trouble.” 5-9, 270); ATH Cordeski Floyd *Class 2A-Region 5 games Huntingdon College Adult Degree Completion Program

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Huntingdon College/ADCP 334-745-2940 www.huntingdon.edu/adcp OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com LANETT PANTHERS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 11 Panthers go to new offense BY MIKE SZVETITZ [email protected] terback Shavar Holliday leading up to the sea- to graduation. son, they have fell in love CATERING CHOICES The formation is tra- “I really didn’t have with it, because it gives ditional, but the style is any true down-the-field us a chance to spread the We make any Tailgate Party delicious! not. threat,” the coach said. ball out to several differ- ® Fifth-year Lanett head “So we had to do some- ent people and do a lot Ask your Sandwich Artist for details! coach Cliff Story made thing that would put of stuff out of it.” that clear to his team, us in the best position Senior Mandell Ray will and anyone else who to win. I have guys who take over the play-calling asks, when he made the can throw the ball me- duties for Holliday, who decision to change his dium range, but the real threw for 1,163 yards and offense from a spread at- deep ball and the versa- 26 passing touchdowns, tack to the Wing-T. tile quarterback, I didn’t while also running for Cookie “I call it ‘high octane,’” have. 347 yards and five TDs Story said. “We’re not “But we have wide last year during his se- Platters going to be traditional, receivers and running nior season. slow Wing-T, now. We’re backs and fullbacks that going to do a lot of stuff can help us in the Wing- Game Night Guide: out of it. We’re still going T.” » Nickname: Panthers to get into some pistol Story said the play- » Colors: Black and gold and spread formations. ers have adapted to the » Stadium: Panther The only thing we’re go- new offense extremely Stadium (5,000) ing to truly run that is well, and have been able » Location: Exit 79 off Wing-T is our blocking to have success with it of I-85; left onto Hwy. 29; assignments. early. Sandwich left on Hwy 50; right at “As far as what we’re “They love it. They like stadium Platters going to do out of it, all the stuff we’re doing » Admission: $6 we’re going to be very out of it,” Story said. “If » Parking: Free versatile. It’s going to put we were just traditional » Radio: WRLA 1520 AM my athletes in space to (Wing-T), I think I would » Home Kickoff time: make plays.” have a problem getting 7 p.m. (CT) Story switched offenses them to adjust to it. But » Last Playoff in the spring after losing with all the stuff we have appearance: 2012 two-year starting quar- done in the spring and

At A Glance (Sr., 5-9, 125); TE/QB Man- 215) Giant dell Ray (Sr., 6-3, 195) » Key losses: QB Shavar » Head coach: Cliff Story » Returning defen- Holliday; WR/DB Desmond Subs (5th season, 19-22) sive starters (8): NG Stephenson; LB Zan- » Assistant coaches: Shaerdarious Barnes (Jr., quanarious Washington; Chip Seagle, James Wise, 5-11, 260); DE Jerrionda WR/QB Romello Murphy Charlie Williams, Jon Lloyd (Jr., 6-2, 205); DT Kitchens, Michael Ervins, Bussey; DE Orendaz Hol- Desmond Flournoy, Nekos 2013 schedule: loway (Sr., 6-8, 195); LB Davis » Aug. 30 at Autaugaville Winston; LB Washington; » 2012 record: 8-2 (6-1 » Sept. 6 at LaFayette * Paul Marshall (Sr., 5-11, region); lost to Fultondale, » Sept. 13 vs. Reeltown * 170); DB Marlon Bridges 14-13, in first round of Class » Sept. 20 vs. Montgomery (Jr., 6-1, 180); DB Anquavis 2A playoffs Academy * Simpson (Jr., 6-0, 165) » Offense: Wing-T » Sept. 26 vs. Notasulga » Other contributors: » Defense: 4-3 » Oct. 4 at Isabella * 8LOCATIONSINTHE OG Travon Mathis (Fr., 6-2, » Returning offensive » Oct. 11 vs. Randolph 235) OT Alexander Towles starters (6): C Quintavi- County * AUBURN/OPELIKA AREA (Jr., 6-3, 204); RB/WR ous Rea (Sr., 6-1, 270); OT » Oct. 18 at Prattville Maurice Sears (So., 5-8, Branquavious Bussey (Jr., Christian * 24-hour advanced notice for three or more platters 160); WR David Odom (Sr., 6-3, 290); RB Jalen Wash- » Oct. 25 at Horseshoe 5-8, 145); DT Dontravious ington (Sr., 6-2, 205); WR Bend * Williams (Sr., 6-2, 305); LB Jamarious Barrow (Sr., 5-5, » Nov. 1 Open Tymiakal Howell (So., 6-0, SUBWAY® is a registered trademark of Doctor’s Associates Inc. ©2013 Doctor’s Associates Inc. 147); FB Brandon Winston *Class 2A-Region 5 games 12 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 SUPER 8 SENIORS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com SUPER 8 SENIORS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 13

Jeremy Joseph, Lee-Scott, QB Christian Campbell, Central, DB » Height/Weight: 6-6, 230 » Height/Weight: 6-2, 180 » 40-time: 4.84 » 40-time: 4.5 » Bench: 275 lbs » Vertical: 37 inches »2012stats:658 yards (5 yards per carry), »2012stats:83 tackles, 3 INTs, 5 pass breakups 8 rushing TDs; 70-of-122 passing (57.4 percent), » College offers: Arkansas State, Georgia Southern, 1,279 yards, 13 TDs, 5 INTs Jacksonville State, Memphis, Northern Illinois, South » Colleges interested: Tennessee, Mississippi Alabama, Southern Miss, UAB, Western Kentucky State » Coach’s take: “I just think we’ve scratched the » Coach’s take: “He’s got a real strong arm, surface with him. I think he can be just as good as he but he runs the ball really well. It’s one thing if wants to be. He’s going to be a big guy. He’s not even you’ve got a quarterback that’s not mobile run- finished starting to fill out yet. Once that happens, he’s ning this spread stuff, but if he’s mobile and can going to be a dangerous guy. I know about the path his run the ball, all the play-action faking we can do development has been so far, and I do know what the makes him a real weapon.” expectations are for this year. I do think that he’s going Lee-Scott head coach Robert Maddox to hit another level this year.” Central head coach Woodrow Lowe

Johnny Woods, Smiths Station,WR/LB » Height/Weight: 6-2, 185 Tray Collins, Beauregard,WR Blaise Taylor,Auburn High,WR/CB/KR » 40-time: 4.6 » Height/Weight: 5-10, 165 » Bench/Squat: 270 lbs/405 lbs » Height/Weight: 5-8, 165 » 40-time: 4.39 » Vertical: 33 inches » 40-time: 4.47 » Bench: 245 lbs »2012stats:26 catches, 427 yards, 4 TDs; 36 » Bench: 315 lbs » Squat: 315 lbs tackles (22 solo), 1 INT (returned for a TD) »2012stats:15 tackles, 3 pass breakups, 3 INTs (one »2012stats:44 catches, 772 yards, 10 TDs; » College offers: Western Kentucky,West Alabama returned for TD); 12 catches, 303 yards, 5 TDs; 8 carries, 454 rush yards, 11 TDs; four return TDs » Coach’s take: “We already work hard enough, 81 yards, 1 TD » College offers: Georgia Southern, Alabama and every time I turn around, he’s out there on his » College offers: Tennessee, Auburn and Nebraska State, Southern Miss, Memphis own, working on footwork or something. I think he’s among others » Coach’s take: “He’s got all the tools. He can improved as much as he possibly can because he’s » Coach’s take: “If he were 6-2, he’d be against the run, he’s athletic, he’s got a good set of hands. He’s always working. He probably doesn’t run the fastest law. I think colleges are concerned about (his height). But as good as he wants to be. Every Friday night last 40-time at the camps, but I haven’t seen anybody he’ll be one of those guys that everybody tells him what year he was the best player on the field for either cover him much yet. He’s big and physical. He just he couldn’t do, and then they’ll all regret the fact that team, and I fully expect that to continue.” gets open and makes plays. He’s very instinctive they didn’t get him because he’s a difference maker. ... He on defense as well, so he’s just a great all-around Beauregard head coach Smitty Grider reminds me a lot of a David Palmer-like athlete. He’s a guy football player.” that can do it all. When we need a big play, he’s often the guy that gets the momentum going for us.” Smiths Station head coach Mark Rose Auburn High head coach Tim Carter

Jakell Mitchell, Opelika,TE/ATH » Height/Weight: 6-3, 215 Stephen Roberts, Opelika, CB Rashaan Evans,Auburn High, DE/LB » 40-time: 4.62 » Height/Weight: 6-2, 220 » Bench/Squat: 255 lbs/420 lbs » Height/Weight: 6-0, 180 » 40-time: 4.51 » Vertical: 31 inches » 40-time: 4.37 » Bench/Squat: 345 lbs/550 lbs »2012stats:26 catches, 357 yards; 84 carries, 389 » Vertical: 34.5 inches » Vertical: 38.5 inches yards, 17 TDs »2012stats:59 tackles (46 solo), 8 TFL, 4 INTs (three re- »2012stats:28 tackles (18 solo), 25 QB hurries, 5 pass break- » College: Committed to Auburn turned for TDs), 11 pass breakups, 26 yards per kickoff return ups, 6.5 sacks » Coach’s take: “I think arguably, he’s one of the best » College: Committed to Alabama » College offers: Deciding between Auburn, Alabama, Georgia football players in the state of Alabama. I think there’s » Coach’s take: “He’s got an eraser. Stephen’s got top-end and UCLA among more than 30 offers some guys at positions that are really, really good, but speed, so he’s able to recover if he gets beat at the release. I » Coach’s take: “God gave him a tremendous amount of ability. when you talk about just an all-around football player think when he plays press man, he’s as good as anyone we’ve He’s 6-2, he weighs 220 pounds, he ran a 4.51, has a 38.5-inch that eats, sleeps and breathes the game that can do just had here and probably as good as anyone I’ve seen in a while. vertical leap — I mean, those are tools that most of us don’t have. about anything on the field. Not only can he do it, but he ... Just this offseason and what we saw from him this spring, I Take the combination of a great will to be the best, match it with believes he can do it. I think you’ve got to put him in an think he’s a lot better player than he was at this time last year. God-given ability, and I think his best football’s ahead of him. I re- argument in there as one of the best in the state.” Honing in on his skills and really defining himself as a corner I ally think in the spring he took his game to another level for us.” think has helped him focus on those skills.” Opelika head coach Brian Blackmon Auburn High head coach Tim Carter Opelika head coach Brian Blackmon 14 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 BEAUREGARD HORNETS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Hornets look to build on record-setting season BY RYAN WOOD back and all-around playmaker Tray Col- [email protected] Game Night Guide lins, who put the Hornets ahead in the At A Glance Beauregard head coach Smitty Grider » Nickname: Hornets third quarter against UMS-Wright with a » Head coach: Smitty Grider, said the way last season ended was more » Colors: Blue and yellow 79-yard punt return touchdown. 8th season (55-25) validation than disappointment, a mea- » Stadium: Hornet Field at Richard “We’re really excited offensively,” Grider » Assistant coaches: A.J. suring stick for where his program cur- Brown Stadium said. “We have Tray Collins back, but oth- Kehoe, Bryan Eason, Drakeford, rently stands and where he thinks it could » Location: Hwy. 51 South, behind school er guys have stepped up and are going to Travis Baxley, Shane Lake, Jay go. » Admission: $7 give us additional options on the offen- Uphold; Rob Carter,Wade Thorn, Sure, there were high expectations as the » Parking: $5 sive side. Josh McClendon, Evan Braun, Hornets prepared for their third-round » Radio: 93.9 FM “From this point, we’ve just got to sharp- Roger Beck, B.J. Simmons playoff matchup, a 22-19 loss to eventual » Home kickoff: 7 p.m. en our timing offensively and work on our » 2012 record: 11-2 (7-0 re- Class 4A state champion UMS-Wright. » Last playoff appearance: 2012 physicality.” gion); lost to UMS-Wright, 22-19, It was the furthest the program had ever One example is quarterback Walker in third round of the 4A playoffs gone, so close to its first state semifinals Meadows, who Grider said grew into the » Offense: Spread appearance. this offseason. After setting the school re- starting role over the spring and summer. » Defense: 3-4 But Grider said his players didn’t mope cord for wins (11), Grider said his team’s Meadows will be tasked with replacing » Returning offensive starters this offseason. attention was forward — not backward three-year starter David Winslett. (8): WR/RB Tray Collins (Sr., 5- “It gave us a great amount of confidence — the past nine months. Grider said his offense has all the pieces 10, 165); WR Tykwane Meniefield that this program is on par with any in “We had a great summer,” he said. “The to be explosive. It’s just a matter of putting (Sr., 5-9, 160); WR Nathan our class in the state,” Grider said. “The kids worked hard. I think we have several them together. Langley (Sr., 5-10, 160); RB Nikel kids know we have a great opportunity areas of strength this year. The secondary Same goes for his team. Mitchell (Sr., 6-0, 195); OL Tris- to be even better. It served as a measur- and defensive line are all back. We only “We expect to build off of last year,” ten Bissonnette (Sr., 5-10, 260); ing stick for where we are and where we’re lost three guys on the defensive side — Grider said. “To make a deep playoff run OL Gabe Morgan (Jr., 6-1, 240); headed.” granted, they were really good players.” and have an opportunity to beat the even- OL Cody May (Sr., 5-11, 220); OL Understanding 2013 could be an even And that’s not even the best news. tual state champion, we feel like this is a Austin Mitchell (Jr., 6-0, 240). bigger year, Beauregard got back to work On offense, Beauregard returns running great opportunity to build off that.” » Returning defensive starters (8): DE Justin Great- house (Sr., 6-2, 240); NG Kiante “We expect to build off of last year . To make a deep playoff run and have an opportunity to beat the eventual state Reynolds (Sr., 5-9, 220); DE champion, we feel like this is a great opportunity to build off that.” Randy Kimbrel (Sr., 5-11, 200); LB Keeven Jackson (Sr., 5-9, Smitty Grider, 180); DB Mike McDonald (Sr., Beauregard head coach 5-8, 160); DB Ryan Johnson (Sr., 5-9, 170); DB Charles Motley (Sr., 5-9, 170); DB Martavius Myhand (Jr., 6-1, 180) » Other contributors: WR Cody Cook (Jr., 5-10, 150); WR Heath Senn (So. 5-9, 150); QB Walker Mead-ows (Jr., 5-11, 185); RB Ed- die Washington (Sr., 5-11, 195); LB Trevor May (So., 5-9, 170); LB Niko Tate (Jr., 5-9, 200); DE Jonathan Cantrell (Sr., 5-11, 210) 2013 schedule: Beauregard head » Aug. 30 vs. Handley coach Smitty Grider talks to » Sept. 6 at Charles Henderson * his team during » Sept. 13 vs. Bullock County * preseason » Sept. 20 at Ashford * practice. Grider » Sept. 27 at Smiths Station and the Hornets » Oct. 4 vs. Headland * won the school’s » Oct. 11 at St. James * first-ever region » Oct. 18 vs. Alabama Christian * championship last » Oct. 25 at Tallassee * year. » Nov. 1 vs. Loachapoka ALBERT CESARE/ *Class 4A-Region 2 games [email protected] OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com LYMAN WARD RANGERS & CHAMBERS ACA. REBELS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 15

Lyman Ward Rangers Chambers Academy Rebels At A Glance players attend the military » Sept. 13 at Pike Liberal At A Glance off a 1-10 season in which it Springwood 14 academy in Camp Hill for » Sept. 20 vs. struggled with a lack of play- » Aug. 30 at Crenshaw » Head coach: Dwayne » Head coach: Jason Allen, one season, then they’re Cornerstone ers, Chambers has plenty of » Sept. 6 at Abbeville * Thomas, 3rd year (0-10) 1st year, 12th overall (68-58) gone. So keeping players, » Sept. 27 at Bessemer reason to be excited about » Sept. 13 vs. Ashford * » Assistant coaches: » Assistant coaches: Matt and the momentum » Oct. 3 vs. Glenwood the future. Jason Allen left a » Sept. 20 vs. Meadowview Leon Day, Michael Smith, Ricky Daniels, Tom that they gathered the » Oct. 11 at Kingwood great situation at Glenwood » Sept. 27 at Sparta Ransaw, Justin Fetner, Garrett, Kyle Jackson previous year, is hard to » Oct. 18 vs. Lee-Scott — after taking the Gators » Oct. 4 at Cornerstone * Trellony Mayfield, » 2012 record: 1-10 (1-5 do. Thomas is working » Oct. 25 vs. Abbeville to the AISA Class AAA State » Oct. 10 vs. Lakeside * Terrance Floyd, BJ Baker, region) on that, however. He said » Nov. 1 at Edgewood Championship game in 2011 » Oct. 18 at Restoration * TJ Kelly » Offense: Wing-T his goal this year is to *AISA-AAA, Region 1 — to return to the Rebels, » Oct. 25 vs. South Mont- » Offense: Multiple » Defense: 4-2-5 create an environment games who he led to two straight gomery * » Defense: 4-4 » Key contributors: RB/S that makes players want state championship games » Nov. 1 vs. Coosa Valley » Returning starters Q.D. Daniels (Sr., 6-0, 180); to return, knowing also in 1999 and 2000. Allen has *AISA-A-Region 1 games (3): DT Alec Bush (Sr., Game Night Guide RB/LB Corey Bolt (Sr., 6-0, that success has a lot to adopted the motto “Family” 6-2, 255); DT Iverson » Nickname: Rangers 215); QB Cord Dodgen (Sr., do with that as well.“Our upon his return to Cham- Cimino (Jr., 5-11, 270); QB » Colors: Black and gold 6-0, 165); WR/CB Dylan Game Night Guide focus has been retention, bers, stating that being there Tyler Marks (Sr., 6-0, 165) » Stadium: Cadet Moncus (Sr., 5-11, 175); WB/ » Nickname: Rebels to get the players to want for one another is impor- » Outlook: After a Stadium OLB Lane Hodges (Sr., 5-10, » Colors: Blue and silver to come back,”Thomas tant when considering the disappointing, winless » Location: Camp Hill at 175); OT/DT Tyler Williams » Stadium: Torbert Field said.“We have good small size of the team and 2012 season, Lyman intersection of Hwy. 280 (Jr., 6-0, 235); OT Earnest » Location: U.S. 431 North, athletes year in and year school. Allen said his players Ward head coach Dwayne and Hwy. 50 Swanson (Sr., 6-2, 240); OG/ approximately 15 miles north out, we just have to keep have been buying in to the Thomas says his squad » Admission: $5 OLB Zac Slay (Sr., 6-4, 200); of Opelika them here. I feel like we’re change, and attitude and is looking forward to » Parking: Free OG/DE Jeremy Holliday (Sr., » Admission: $5 starting to build on that.” effort this summer was at an getting back on the field. » Radio: None 6-1, 190); C Austin Harmon » Parking: Free all-time high. The Rangers, however, » Home kickoff time: (Sr., 6-4, 200); OG/LB Austin » Radio: WCJM (100.9 FM) find themselves in a 2013 Schedule 7 p.m. Hudmon (Jr., 6-0, 225); DB » Home kickoff time: 7p.m. tough spot every season » Aug. 30 at Macon-East » Last playoff Jay Tinsley (Jr., 6-0, 165) 2013 Schedule » Last playoff appearance: because of attrition. Most » Sept. 6 vs. Tuscaloosa appearance: 1970 » Outlook: Despite coming » Aug. 22: Chambers 14, 2011 Lee County Sheriff’s Office Mobile App Now available for your Applee and Android devices Download today for access to: •CrimeReports • Nearby Crime Alerts • Missing Children Alerts •Twitter • Facebook • Department News • Warrants/Most Wanted • Sheriff’s Welcome • Anonymous Crime Reporting 1900 Frederick Road Opelika, AL 36803 (334) 749-5651 www.leecountysheriff.org 16 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 DADEVILLE TIGERS & BALLARD EAGLES OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Talented Tigers continue to reload in 2013 BY MIKE SZVETITZ a defense having to defend his 165); DB Foster [email protected] Game Night Guide feet and arm. At A Glance » Other contributors: WR/OLB Dadeville’s spread offense has » Nickname: Tigers “(Tolbert’s)a very athletic guy. » Head coach: Richard White, Shawn Jennings (So., 6-0, 190); put up some gaudy numbers » Colors: Black and gold He gives you that extra step and 14th year (100-50) DB Quentrel Heard (Sr., 5-11, 170); over the last four years. » Stadium: Tiger Stadium quickness. He’s a running back » Assistant coaches: Patrick DB Isaiah Hicks (So., 5-7,140); The Tigers’ record hasn’t been (3,000) who can throw.” Browning, Chris Tolbert,Brad RB/DB Zack Johnson (Sr., 5-7, too shabby in that timeframe » Location: ½ mile off of Hwy. Tolbert will get the chance Ford, Fred Ford, Jesse Foster, Matt 150); LB Tre Marbury (So., 5-10, either, posting a 55-7 mark 280, behind the school to show off those skills behind Harrison, Jeremy Pinkens 175); DL DJ Black (Sr., 6-1, 240); since 2008. » Admission: $7 a veteran offensive line, which » 2012 record: 10-2 (6-1 region); DL Tren Hall (Sr., 5-11, 290); LB With four of the eight return- » Parking: Free will anchor the team, according lost to UMS-Wright, 38-24, in Tra Rivers (Jr., 5-10, 220); RB ing offensive starters being line- » Radio: N/A to White. second round of the Class 4A Darius Miller (Sr. 5-9, 160); OL men and perhaps Dadeville’s » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. “They’ve been together for a playoffs Jalyn Johnson (Jr., 6-1, 190) best athlete being moved from » Last playoff appearance: few years,” the head coach said » Offense: Spread » Key losses: WR TerryToler; QB running back to quarterback, it 2012 of his linemen. “They’re the » Defense: 3-4 Kaleb Beck; DT Rod Crayton wouldn’t be a stretch to believe overall strength of our team. » Returning offensive starters the Tigers will continue their Anytime you can bring line- (8): QB/RB C.J. Tolbert (Sr., 5-9, success this year. Team quarterback Kaleb Beck, men back that started for a year 180); WR Jay Foster (Sr., 5-10, 2013 schedule: C.J. Tolbert will run the of- who threw for 2,659 yards and or two that’s a good sign.” 190); WR Cal Jones (So., 5-10, » Aug. 29 at Reeltown fense after a breakout season recorded a total of 36 touch- The defensive side of the ball, 170); WR Mike Miller (Jr., 5-9, » Sept. 6 vs. Elmore County * at running back last year. As downs last season. on the other hand, is a question 165); OL Tim Tinsley (Sr., 6-0, » Sept. 13 at Holtville * a junior, Tolbert rushed for Tolbert, according to head mark. 225); OL Sedrick Harkins (Jr., 6-2, » Sept. 20 vs. Childersburg * 1,009 yards on 106 carries and coach Richard White, will give Dadeville lost four-star de- 230); OL Elander Moss (Jr., 5-10, » Sept. 27 at Tallassee 12 touchdowns in 10 games. the Tigers another dimension fensive tackle Rod Crayton, 200); OL Justin Canada (Sr., 6-0, » Oct. 4 at Dallas County * He also had 22 catches for 423 at quarterback. who is now at Southern Miss, to 210) » Oct. 11 vs. Beulah * yards and four scores, which “He gives us an extra weapon graduation, which provides the » Returning defensive starters » Oct. 18 at Handley * helped place him on the Ope- back there, throwing and run- biggest hole to fill. (6): DE Anferne Jennings (Jr., 6-3, » Oct. 25 vs. Central Clay lika-Auburn News All-Area ning the ball,” White said. “Be- For what the defense — which 240); LB Tamarcus Russell (Sr., 5- County * Large School Second Team. ing a defensive coach, anytime returns six starters — might 10, 190); LB DJ Morgan (Sr., 5-11, » Nov. 1 vs. Russell County Tolbert will take the place you put an athlete at quarter- lack in experience, it makes up 195); OLB Jaquan Alvies (Jr., 6-1, *Class 4A-Region 3 games of All-Area Large School First- back, it puts an extra strain on for in athleticism. 200); DB Roger Hicks (Sr., 5-8, Eagles begin quest to repeat at state champions BY JUSTIN LEE Braxton Nelson was injured At A Glance Rumfelt (Jr., 5-11, 185) Christian 40, Ballard [email protected] Game Night Guide » Returning defen- 14 and lost for the season just be- » Head coach: sive starters (3): LB » Aug. 30 at Ezekiel Once again, Ballard Chris- » Nickname: Eagles fore fall camp. Nelson tore his Buddy Hammock, 6th Scott; LB Rumfelt; DB Academy tian’s upcoming season is filled » Colors: Red and black ACL and meniscus, and under- year (44-14) Starling » Sept. 6 vs. Holy with uncertainty, and once » Stadium: Sluder Field went surgery a week before the » Assistant » Other Ground Baptist again, head coach Buddy Ham- » Location: On Moores Mill Eagles began fall practice. coaches: Mike Cahill, contributors:QB » Sept. 13 vs. North mock is scrambling to get his Road in Auburn next to Believ- To replace Nelson in the Josh Childree, Jason Jared Guden (Jr., 6-0, Georgia Christian team prepared for the season ers Church backfield this fall, Hammock Scott, Eric Strong, 170); C Dalton Fields » Sept. 20 at Evangel opener. » Admission: $5 will be using a pair of quarter- Mark Wallace (Fr., 6-0, 210); TE Cole Family Christian Hammock is searching for a » Radio: None backs both under center and in » 2012 record: 11-2 Clark (So., 6-0, 160); » Sept. 27 at Har- new starting quarterback, just » Home kickoff time: 6:30 Ballard Christian’s “Wild Eagle” (4-0 region); won OL Shane Bryant (So., vester Christian like last year, and coaching p.m. or 7 p.m. formation. ICSGA State Champi- 5-9, 165); OL Jeremy » Oct. 4 at Lafayette up a host of newcomers with- » Last playoff Sophomore Jarrett Scott, who onship over Heritage Dean (Fr., 5-9, 185) Christian * out knowing much of what to appearance: 2012 rushed for over 2,000 yards in Christian, 38-28 » Key losses: OL/DL » Oct. 11 vs. expect this fall — just like last 2012, will be taking some di- » Offense: Multiple Matthew Ford, RB CrossPointe Chris- year. of the least likely teams, I rect snaps, as will junior Jared » Defense: 3-3-2 Dustin Bailey, TE/DL tian * It worked out well enough thought,” Hammock said. “But Guden. » Returning Garrett Dumler, RB/ » Oct. 18 vs. Praise for Hammock and the Eagles you just never know how things “We’ll use both of them at offensive starters DB Chandler Nielson, Academy last season. Ballard Christian jell.” different times,” Hammock (3): RB Jarrett Scott OL Elijah Justice » Oct. 25 at Heritage went on to win the ICSGA state This year’s squad might be an said, “and we’ll also use both of (So., 6-0, 185); TE Christian * championship for the first time even bigger underdog in ICS- them as tailbacks.” Dalton Starling (So., 2013 schedule * ICSGA South Region in school history. GA’s 8-man football, especially Nelson was the only senior 5-11, 160); FB Joe » Aug. 23: Hope “That would have been one after returning quarterback on the Eagles’ roster. games OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com REELTOWN REBELS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 17 Young Rebels look to carry on tradition of success

BY TIM COTTRELL Cody Spivey and the rest of the For The Opelika-Auburn News offense in the early going as the At A Glance kiece Williams (Jr., 5-9, 230); RB Cody Marks (So., 5-8, 150); S/QB Given Reeltown’s reputation Rebels try to gain experience. » Head coach: Jackie O’Neal Brandon McKeithen (Jr., 6-2, as a smashmouth, Wishbone “Ariko’s going to have to carry (26th year) 221-96 165); CB/SE Alan Waldrep (Jr., 5- football team over the 26 years the load early until Cody and » Assistant coaches: Travis Lee, 7,160); FB Edward Carreker (Jr., Jackie O’Neal has roamed its Zach (Lyles) and Dante (Har- Michael Jones, Will Solomon, Mi- 5-9, 170); FB/RB Benjamin Jof- sidelines, it’s hard to imag- ris) and all the rest of them can chael Thigpen, Freddie Langford, frion (Jr., 5-11, 165); OL Rashad ine the Rebels could be more come around,” O’Neal said. David Gray, Cory O’Neal, Ira Shaw Waver (Jr., 5-10, 225) physical. “That’s going to be the key to »2012record:12-2 (7-0 re- » Key Losses: RB Tywone Stew- But that’s just what O’Neal ex- our offensive gameplan.” gion); lost, 35-14 to Tanner in 2A art; RB James Smith; RB Jim pects in 2013. Despite the loss of several key semifinals Parks; WR Kendarius Frazier; WR “Theoffensiveline,onceitjells players on defense, O’Neal feels » Offense: Wishbone Michael Hall-Long and becomes a force, (will be the Rebels can rebound. » Defense: 50-front key),” O’Neal said. “This is the “A lot of the time you can do » Returning offensive starters first time we’ve had this much a little bit more on the defen- (5): QB Cody Spivey (Sr., 6-2, 2013 schedule size. We’re going to be a little sive side of the ball,” he said. “If 160); RB Ariko Stewart (Jr., 5-11, » Aug. 29 vs. Dadeville bigger and stronger through our you’ve got guys that’ll run to the 175); C Blake Baker (Sr., 5-9, » Sept. 6 vs. Horseshoe Bend * offseason program. I think that’s football and hit and play their 240); OG Zach Giddens (Sr., 5-8, » Sept. 13 at Lanett * going to be instrumental on the OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS FILE PHOTO position — and be disciplined 215); OT Brandon Williams (Sr., » Sept. 20 at Randolph Conty * offensive side of the ball. Reeltown running back Ariko — you can get them to be a 6-0, 180) » Sept. 27 at Loachapoka “I think (being more physi- Stewart ran for more than 1,000 pretty good defensive ballplay- » Returning defensive starters » Oct. 4 vs. Prattville Christian * cal) is going to be a tremendous yards during his sophomore er. The main thing we’ve got to (6): DE Deonte’ Harris (Sr., 5-11, » Oct. 11 at Montgomery help once they jell, but we’ve got season. Now a junior, Stewart is do right now is be disciplined, 180); DE Paul Hodges (Jr., 5-9, Academy * to make sure they play to their looking to help lead the Rebels to run to the football and not give 180); DT Baker; LB Payne Solo- » Oct. 18 vs. Isabella * ability. If they’re doing their job, another stellar season. up big plays.” mon (Sr., 6-4, 180); CB Stewart; » Oct. 25 vs. LaFayette * it’ll make it easier for the run- Coming off another region LB Zachary Lyles (Jr., 5-9, 170) » Oct. 31 at Notasulga ning backs to do their job and some good three-to-four-year championship and trip to the » Other Contributors: FB Mar- *Class 2A-Region 5 game be confident.” players at the skill positions. Es- state semifinals, O’Neal said the That bigger, stronger offen- pecially in the offense we run, Rebels are hungry for more. sive line will be key this season we like to run the football and “We achieved pretty well (last Game Night Guide Hwy. 120 because Reeltown, for the first love to run the Wishbone. You season),” he said. “We didn’t get » Nickname: Rebels » Admission: $6 time in a while, finds itself with- need six-to-seven quality run- where we wanted to get — to the » Colors: Blue and white » Parking: Free out a stable of experienced run- ning backs to run that offense.” state championship game and » Stadium: Nix-Webster-O’Neal » Radio: WACQ (1130 AM) ning backs. Junior Ariko Stewart is the win the state championship. We Stadium (3,000) » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. “The most work we’re going only returning back with expe- always look at it that we want » Location: Behind school at » Last playoff appearance: to need is going to be at the skill rience, and his play will be par- to win the state championship, intersection of Hwy. 49 and 2012 positions,” O’Neal said. “We lost amount for senior quarterback and that’s not going to change.” Voted Best Cheesesteak 4 Years in a row. Voted Best Franchisee! $ with purchase of 3 OFF 2-7” Combo Meals

2328 S. College St., Auburn 334-887-3996 18 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 BEULAH BOBCATS & NOTASULGA BLUE DEVILS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Beulah, Wooten shooting for playoffs Blue Devils look BY JASON GALLOWAY [email protected] At A Glance Lamb (Sr., 6-3, 265); OL Jimmy Thorton (Sr.); DB Kyle Fender (Jr., 6-1, 285); JarrodWooten’s30-year- » Head coach: Jarrod Gerkri Cochran (So.) OL Zak Place (Sr., 6-0, to reload in 2013 old memories don’t feel Wooten, 1st year (0-0), 5th 200); RB Dustin Howard that far removed. BY TIM COTTRELL overall (18-23) 2013 Schedule For The Opelika-Auburn News The head coach, sitting (Sr., 5-10, 170); WR Tay Game Night Guide » Assistants: Eddie Dan- Leonard (Jr., 6-0, 185); WR in his new office at Beulah » Aug. 30 vs. Notasulga Notasulga finally had » Nickname: Blue Devils iel, Jeff Lamb, Stan Pepper, David Eastridge (Jr., 6-0, High School, has no trou- » Sept. 6 vs. Childersburg * its breakout season in » Colors: Blue and white Mike Davis, Matt Johnson, 185) ble recalling old scores, » Sept. 13 at Dallas Co. * Year 3 of the James Lucas » Stadium: Blue Devils Charles Graves, David Dis- » Returning defensive records and matchups. mukes, Casey Chambley » Sept. 20 vs. Elmore Co. * Era, capturing a region Stadium (2,500) “We were 7 points away starters (7): CB Brown; championship — its first » 2012 record: 5-5 (2-5 » Sept. 27 vs. Ranburne » Location: Behind from playing for the state DL Fender; S Howard; LB since 2001 — and reach- region) school off of County championship on this Eastridge; DB Leonard; DT » Oct. 4 at Holtville * ing the second round of » Offense: Spread Road 54, ½ mile off of field right out here,” he Josh Cleveland (Jr.); MLB » Oct. 11 at Dadeville * the playoffs. » Defense: Multiple Hwy. 14 said, motioning toward Justin Orr (Jr., 5-11, 195) » Oct. 18 vs. Central-Clay Despite many key loss- » Returning offensive » Returning special » Admission: $6 the Bobcats’ football sta- County * es from last year’s team, starters (8): RB/WR teams starters (1): K/P » Parking: $2 dium. » Oct. 25 vs. Handley * Lucas feels the Blue Dev- That was when Beu- Trevon Brown (Sr., 5-11, Caleb Boone (Sr., 5-11, 175) ils can keep on rolling. » Radio: None lah finished 12-2 in 1985, 185); QB Dustin Hudmon » Other contributors: » Nov. 1 at Wadley “(The last two teams » Home kickoff time: Wooten’s senior year at (Jr., 6-2, 190); OL David LB Kelvin Miller (So.); DE *Class 4A-Region 3 games showed) the work ethic 7 p.m. the school, one season af- that it takes — practice » Last playoff ter he helped the Bobcats burn University in 1996 he said. “The second part “People have to know mindset, studying of appearance: 2012 to another semifinal ap- — Wooten believes it’s is to get us back where that I’m coming here to film, the learning of cri- pearance. time his alma mater re- we’re supposed to be, stay. I’m not going to be tique under coaching,” to do at Notasulga.” Now that he’s back as a vives its old success. back in the playoffs and gone again next year, Lucas said. “The last two That new team mental- head coach — something “Me coming back and back at a level of compe- so we want to build this years of my coaching ca- ity is a big reason Lucas he has wanted since go- getting this job is just the tition where Beulah has thing right, but we want reer, I had two great se- feels the Blue Devils can ing back to school at Au- first part of (my) dream,” been at one time. to build it for the long nior classes that showed rebound from the loss of haul, as well.” each other how it’s done all of their skill position That’s refreshing for and these younger gen- players last season and Beulah, who will enter tlemen have bought in perhaps be even better this season with a third full to what we’re trying in 2013. different coach in the last three years. At A Glance S Martavious Brown (Sr., 6-1, 162); CB Anfernee The Bobcats haven’t » Head coach: James Dukes (Jr., 5-6, 145); CB made the playoffs since Lucas, 4th year (18-16) Khalil Jones (So., 5-8, 160) 2007, under coach Steve » Assistant coaches: Bri- » Other Contributors: White, who left the school an Ware, Brandon Lucas, DB Robert Surge (So., 5-7, two years ago after a 1-9 Claude Perkins, Michael 155) season. Sims, Clifton Knight, Terry » Key Losses: Justin Lu- The team saw a four- Welch, Chico Canady, cas RB, Marlon Page RB, game improvement un- Stephen Rogers Cedarious Alexander QB, der Craig Hall, but 5-5 still » 2012 record: 8-4 (7-0 Bishop Burnett WR/TE wasn’t enough to advance Region); lost, 32-16, to to the postseason. McIntosh in second round » Offense: Spread 2013 schedule Game Night Guide » Defense: 4-3 » Aug. 30 at Beulah » Nickname: Bobcats » Returning offensive » Sept. 6 vs. Loachapoka * LASER TAG » Colors: Black and gold starters (5): OT Shakeel » Sept. 13 at Verbena * » Stadium: Bobcat Abdullah (Sr., 6-2, 251); » Sept. 20 vs. Fayetteville * AND ARCADE Stadium (3,000) OG Jason Williams (Jr., » Sept. 26 at Lanett » Location: Behind 5-11, 185); C Jatavis Harris » Oct. 4 at Talladega school on Lee Road 270 (Sr., 5-11, 265); OG Tyler County Central * » Admission: $7 Johnson (Jr., 5-6, 207) ; » Oct. 11 vs. St.Jude * Historic Opelika-Corner of 9th St & 1st Ave » Parking: $5 OT Randy Robinson (Jr., » Oct. 18 at Winterboro * » Home kickoff time: 6-0, 195) » Oct. 25 vs.Wadley * 334-737-5000 - www.cyberzone334.com 7 p.m. » Returning defensive » Oct. 31 vs. Reeltown » Last playoff appear- starters (4): S Alex *Class 1A-Region 4 ance: 2007 Woodard (Jr., 6-1, 210); games OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com SPRINGWOOD WILDCATS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 19 New-look Wildcats starting fresh after disappointing season

BY JUSTIN LEE With the talent now in front [email protected] Game Night Guide of him, Hill can use 2013 as a At A Glance 146); WR/DB Padarius Dumas (Jr., 5-11, 175) Just when it seemed things » Nickname: Wildcats chance to rebuild Springwood » Head coach: Thomas Hill, » Key losses: FB Connor Gil- couldn’t get any worse for the » Colors: Red, black and white into the program it was not 1st year (0-0) lespie, LB Tyler Damiano, QB Springwood Wildcats this off- » Stadium: Wildcat Stadium long ago. » Assistant coaches: Galen Brandon Hall season, they did. (2,000) The Wildcats made a run to Smith, John Brown, Matt Livings- After a disappointing 1-9 sea- » Location: Exit 79 off I-85, left the AISA Class AA state cham- ton, Walter Banks pionship game in 2010, and 2013 schedule son a year ago, the Springwood on Broad Ave/US 29/AL 15, left » 2012 record: 1-9 (0-6 region) coaching staff stood with just put together a 10-win season in » Aug. 22: 14-14 vs. Chambers on Cherry Drive » Offense: Pistol 10 players on the Wildcats’ ac- » Admission: $5 2011. In 2012, the team strug- » Aug. 29 vs. EMCA * » Defense: 4-2-5 tive roster in early July. Later in » Parking: Free gled with just 17 players on the » Sept. 6 at Edgewood * » Returning starters (4): WR/ the month, former head coach » Radio: WCJM 100.9 FM roster. » Sept. 13 vs. Evangel * Ronnie Sikes announced he » Home kickoff time: 7p.m. “Last year’s team, they had DB Justin McDiarmid (Sr., 5-8, » Sept. 19 at Lee-Scott was leaving to become an as- (CST) great attitudes even though 145); LB Steven Stuntz (So., 5-10, » Sept. 27 vs. Hooper sistant coach at Callaway High » Last playoff appearance: they didn’t have the season they 170); OL/DT Jordan Walls (Sr., 6- » Oct. 4 at South Montgomery * in LaGrange, Ga. 2011 wanted,” Hill said. “I would say 1, 210); C Joe Neil (Sr., 6-0, 200) » Oct. 11 at Autauga * With kickoff just a month and they kind of maintained the » Other contributors: RB/LB » Oct. 18 vs. Coosa Valley * a half away, the school scram- “It’sone of those things where, status quo, and I think they Maurice Fears (So., 5-10, 170); » Oct. 25 at Crenshaw * bled to find Sikes’ replacement I hate that he’s leaving, but I’m just played to the best of their WR/LB Elijah Carroll (Jr., 6-3, » Nov. 1 vs. Lakeside before eventually deciding to glad that I’m getting an oppor- abilities, starting from Day 1 to 210); QB RJ McDonald (Jr., 5-10, * Class AA-Region 1 games promote assistant coachThom- tunity.” the very end. We did see a lot of as Hill, who has been with the Now Hill, in his first year as a improvement. What will carry season in senior Justin McDiar- “Those guys have been really Wildcats since 2005. head coach, has re-energized over is some guys learning mid. He and the rest of the se- good at using their previous ex- “It was bittersweet,” Hill said. the Springwood program, some leadership qualities from nior class have stepped up and perience and not wanting to be “Coach Sikes is like my best bringing in 19 new players in last year.” taken on roles as leaders amidst where they were before,” Hill friend, and he’s been my men- his short time at the helm to The Wildcats return their the coaching change and roster said. “They’re pretty motivated tor for four years. bring the roster total up to 29. leading wide receiver from last attrition, Hill says. to try and make a playoff run.”

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www.eheritagebank.com Equal Housing Lender | Member FDIC 20 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 LOACHAPOKA INDIANS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com Defense leads as Indians prep for playoff push

BY MIKE SZVETITZ [email protected] At A Glance Jerome Tate asked his team » Head coach: Jerome Tate, a question this offseason: Are 19th year (131-75) you satisfied with just making » Assistant coaches: Mason the playoffs? Wilson, Terry Murph, Wendell Sure, Loachapoka’s run of 12 Washington, Mike Perry, An- consecutive playoff appear- thony Edwards, Tracy Simpson, ances is something to marvel Marcus Jackson at — a goal that any team in the »2012record:6-5 (6-1 re- state can appreciate. gion); lost, 27-26, to Billingsley But this is Loachapoka, Tate in the first round of the Class 1A said. The goal isn’t to just make playoffs the playoffs, it’s to make a run » Offense: Multiple at a state championship. »Defense:8-man front “We’ve been a first-round team the last few years,” Tate » Returning offensive said. “We need to go further starters (8): WR Wakeem than that. We talked about that Huguley (Sr., 5-8, 150); WR as a team.” Demarius Pitts (Sr., 5-11, 158), The Indians’ last playoff win C Jahhari Culbreath (Sr., 5-11, was in 2009, when they went 185); OT Jeffery Nowlin (Jr., 6-0, to the fourth round of the 1A 258); OG Keion Glaze (Jr., 6-0, playoffs, just a game away from 303); TE Deon Roberts (Sr., playing for a state champion- 5-10, 180); FB Jaquavious Jack- ship. son (Sr., 5-11, 192); RB Juwan Tate, who is the winningest Turk (Sr., 5-9, 167) coach in Lee County history, » Returning defensive said it’s time for Loachapoka starters (8): DB Huguley; DB to get back to that level of com- Pitts; DB Turk; LB Victor Murray petitiveness. But he also knows (Sr., 5-11, 202); LB Culbreath; his team has to start some- LB Roberts; DE Jackson; DT where. Devante Goodman (Jr., 5-8, 310) “The No. 1 goal is to win the » Other contributors: RB first ballgame,” he said. OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS FILE PHOTO Loachapoka head coach Jerome Tate enters his 19th season with the Indians. Raheem Sistrunk (Sr., 5-5, 138); Loachapoka will have eight CB Kendarius Felton-Pitts (Sr., returning starters on both of- Tate expects that from his de- behind the school 5-11, 143); QB Courtland Cox fense and defense — a majority Game Night Guide fense, as seven of the eight re- (Jr., 6-0, 190); OT Ricky Binder of them going both ways. That » Admission: $7 turning starters are seniors. » Nickname: Indians (Fr., 5-10, 225) is the foundation Tate believes » Parking: $2 “They know what we want. » Colors: Red and white » Key losses: OL/DL DeQuen- the team can use to take that » Radio: None They know everything. They » Stadium: Loachapoka Field ton Redden next step. (2,000) » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. know it all,” he said. “It’s a lot “Yeah, we got a nice little core » Location: OnLeeRoad61, » Last playoff appearance: less teaching you have to do. coming back,” Tate said. “A a mile south of Hwy. 14 on left 2012 They’re experienced. 2013 schedule lot of them started in the 10th “It’s a good feeling that we » Aug. 30 vs. LaFayette grade, so they’ve been with us defensive side of the football. He’s a new quarterback — has got these guys to a point where » Sept. 6 at Notasulga * for a while. They’ve worked ex- Which is good, Tate said, con- never played the position be- they can basically coach them- » Sept. 13 vs. St. Jude * tremely hard. This is one of the sidering the Indians have to fore. It’ll take about three or selves.” » Sept. 20 at Verbena * best summers we’ve had in the break in a new quarterback. four ballgames for him to get Understanding that defense » Sept. 27 vs. Reeltown weight room. The kids are ex- Junior Courtland Cox will comfortable with everything wins championships, it’s all » Oct. 4 vs. Winterboro * cited. take over signal-calling duties we’re going to ask him to do.” about taking that next step. » Oct. 11 at Fayetteville * “Hopefully, the work we’ve this year for Loachapoka, tak- That’s where the defense will “Hopefully we are,” Tate said. » Oct. 18 vs. Wadley * been doing in the weight room ing snaps for the first time at come in. “It’s going to take some work. » Oct. 25 at Talladega this level. “We’re going to take him real It’s going to take the kids … I and summer conditioning will County-Central * translate to the field.” “He’s progressing well,” Tate slow,” Tate said, “and hope our think they’re buying into what » Nov. 1 at Beauregard A bulk of Loachapoka’s expe- said of his young quarterback. defense can hold down the fort we’re trying to sell. Hopefully, *Class 1A-Region 4 games rience is coming back on the “It’s going to take some time. until he comes along.” it’ll get there.” OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com GLENWOOD GATORS WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 N 21 Gators take on ‘building process’ with new coach

BY JUSTIN LEE [email protected] At A Glance Undriel Copeland (So., 5-8, 190), DB Tanner Knowles Game Night Guide RB Anthony Davis (Jr., 5-11, 185); For new head coach Tripp » Head coach: Tripp Henderson, » Nickname: Gators Henderson, returning to Glen- 1st season (0-0), 7th season WR Isaiah Bettis (Sr., 5-10, 170); 2013 schedule » Colors: Orange and white wood was like coming home. overall (28-35) QB Lawson Humphries (Jr., 5-10, » Aug. 24 vs. Escambia » Stadium: The Swamp (3,000) Henderson coached the Ga- » Assistant coaches: Josh Mc- 190); WR Michael Hasson (So. (at Faulkner University) » Location: Behind school on tors from 2006-2007, before leav- Connell, Cody Dykes, Cody Pearcy, 6-1, 185); WR Mikey Starke (Jr., » Aug. 30 vs. Bessemer Academy Summerville Road in Phenix City ing for stints at B.B. Comer and Gene Reeder,John Davis, John 5-10, 190); C Austin Kent (Jr., 5-11, » Sept. 6 vs. Evangel Christian * » Admission: $5 Russell County. When former Robertson 220); OL Noah Kirkland (So., 6-0, » Sept. 13 at Kingwood * » Parking: Free Glenwood head coach Jason Al- » 2012 record: 7-4 (4-2 region); 260); OL Will Cadoura (Fr., 6-0, » Sept. 20 vs. Edgewood » Radio: None len left for Chambers Academy lost, 41-38 OT,to Fort Dale in first 250); OL Connor Boatner (Jr., 5-8, » Sept. 27 vs. Lee-Scott * » Home kickoff time: 7p.m. in May, Henderson was hired for round of Class AAA playoffs 190); OL Jackson Oates (Jr., 6-2, » Oct. 3 at Lyman Ward * (CST) another run with the Gators. » Offense: Spread 245); FB Tyler Cadenhead (So., » Oct. 10 vs. Macon East * » Last playoff appearance: “This is a good place,” Hen- » Defense: 4-2-5 5-9, 170) » Oct. 18 at Tuscaloosa Academy * 2012 derson said. “I’ve got a lot of » Returning starters (1): WR/DB » Key losses: QB Brandon » Oct. 24 at Hooper Academy good memories here. I’m very Dylan Denny (Sr., 5-10, 185) Daley, FB Luke Dougherty, TE » Nov. 1 at Crenshaw Christian Glenwood will look like a lucky, because my wife is going » Other contributors: RB Zach Kelley, LB Logan Kiker, * Class AAA-Region 1 games much different team when it to be teaching here with me. takes the field this fall, aside My little girl is going to be going from just the fresh faces under to school here. the Gators, and hopes to bring returns just one starter on ei- cess, but I knew that coming the helmets. Henderson will “How many people get to go even more success to Glen- ther side of the ball, and has in, and I’m excited about it,” employ a spread offense this to work with their whole fam- wood the second time around. just four seniors on its active Henderson said. “I think this fall, a long departure from the ily every day? That’s awesome In order to do that, Hender- roster. Almost every player on team will be much better at the Wing-T offense that Allen ran to me.” son and his team are going to the squad will be playing both end of the year than they are last season, or the single-wing Henderson compiled an 18-5 have to go through a rebuild- ways, Henderson says. the beginning, because they offense Henderson ran at Glen- record during his first stint with ing process in 2013. Glenwood “It will be a building pro- are so young.” wood years ago. 22 N WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2013 LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY WARRIORS OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com

At A Glance » Head coach: Robert Maddox, 8th season (42-34), 18th overall (115-90) » Assistant coaches: Shane Tapley, Kelly Pool, Jon Kitchens, Mike Rabren, Chad Prewett, Zach Blatt » 2012 record: 11-2 (5-1 region); lost, 27-26, to Tuscaloo- sa Academy in Class AAA State Championship » Offense: Spread » Defense: Multiple » Returning offensive starters (4): RB Thomas DeGrange; QB Jeremy Joseph; OL Chandler Scott; OL Lane Johnson » Returning defensive starters (4): DB Triston Knight; LB/DL Josh Hyatt; LB Scott; LB DeGrange

2013 Schedule

» Aug. 30 at Tuscaloosa OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS FILE PHOTO Academy * Lee-Scott quarterback Jeremy Joseph and the Warriors are looking to continue their momentum from last year’s AISA Class AAA runner-up finish. » Sept. 6 at Pike Liberal Arts » Sept. 13 vs. Bessemer Academy * » Sept. 19 vs. Springwood LSA lacking experience, not talent » Sept. 27 at Glenwood * » Oct. 4 vs. Kingwood Christian * BY JASON GALLOWAY you can every play.” der center, and Maddox said he believes » Oct. 11 at East Memorial [email protected] Despite the new faces, motivation cer- Thomas DeGrange — who played tight Christian A team can’t come much closer to win- tainly hasn’t been an issue for the War- end offensively last season — will surprise » Oct. 18 at Lyman Ward * ning a championship than Lee-Scott did riors. a lot of people with his skills as a running » Oct. 25 vs. Macon-East last season. Those who were a major part of last back. Academy * The Warriors had an extra point blocked year’s team are gearing up to play Tusca- The question marks come on the of- loosa Academy again to open this season, fensive and defensive lines, Maddox said, » Oct. 31 vs. Hooper Academy with less than three minutes remaining that would have tied the AISA Class AAA and those who weren’t know that if they fill where there is noticeable talent but not *Class AAA-Region 1 games Championship game against Tuscaloosa their new role effectively, theWarriors have much playing experience. The offensive Academy, and they turned the ball over in the potential for another special year. line group includes two sophomores and Game Night Guide the Knights’ territory with just 41 seconds “(The state championship game) moti- only two players who played the position » Nickname: Warriors left in a 1-point game. vated us seniors,” said Jeremy Joseph, who last year. Entering the 2013 season, there aren’t too enters his third year as Lee-Scott’s starting “They’re very athletic, maybe even more » Colors: Navy, red and white many players left who remember being in quarterback. “Having that fire and motiva- athletic than we were last year, they’re just » Stadium: Jud Scott Field the thick of that heartbreak. tion to win this time — make it back and young,” Maddox said. “We’ve got some ob- (2,500) “You look at our team this year from last actually take the trophy — that’s what it is. stacles to overcome, but I think we’ll get » Location: In Auburn, at the year, with the exception of a small hand- “The experience, that’s going to be our there. Both offensive and defensive lines, end of Gatewood Drive, behind ful of seniors, it’s a totally different foot- biggest thing. We’ve definitely got the tal- we’ve got a lot of work to do. Potentially, we Village Mall ball team,” Lee-Scott head coach Robert ent to do it, it’s just about (going) out there could be pretty good up front, but we’ve » Admission: $5 Maddox said. “We have a lot of talent in a executing, not backing down. We don’t got to pay our dues, and we haven’t done » Parking: Free lot of areas, but we’re very young and in- have the depth to really have the same that yet. » Radio: WQNR (99.9 FM) experienced. But I think there’s a hunger team as last year, but we definitely have “(The team has) done a good job of re- » Home kickoff time: 7 p.m. there. There should be. I believe there’s a the talent.” sponding. I can’t complain. They’re worked » Last playoff appearance: hunger there to have a great season. We Lee-Scott has four starters returning on hard this offseason. They’ve worked hard don’t talk a lot about a state championship each side of the ball. Joseph comes in with this summer. I couldn’t ask for anything 2012 as much as we talk about just play the best 24 career starts and an 18-6 record un- else.” OPELIKA-AUBURN NEWS N www.oanow.com PREP BLITZ 2013 WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013 N 23

James E. “Win” Lyle IV, M.D. l Robert “Bob” McAlindon, M.D. l Scott Morrell, M.D.

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