Starkville Academy Volunteers

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 2 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com WHAT’S INSIDE Aberdeen Bulldogs...... 22 Hebron Christian Eagles ...... 17 Starkville Academy Volunteers. . . . . 14

Caledonia Confederates...... 5 Heritage Academy Patriots ...... 8 Starkville Yellow Jackets...... 13

Central Academy Vikings ...... 21 Immanuel Rams ...... 6 Victory Christian Eagles...... 7

Columbus Falcons ...... 3 New Hope Trojans ...... 4 West Lowndes Panthers ...... 11

East Oktibbeha Titans ...... 15 Noxubee County Tigers ...... 20 West Oktibbeha Timberwolves. . . . . 16

Hamilton Lions ...... 23 Oak Hill Academy Raiders ...... 19 West Point Green Wave ...... 18

FOOTBALL places to be 2011 A publication of THE DISPATCH 33 P.O. Box 511 FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL 2233 Columbus, MS 39703 (662) 328-2424 teams to see Editor and 11 Publisher Birney Imes 1133 Sports 99 Adam Minichino Matt Stevens 44 David Miller 1177 Gary Estwick 2277 1100 12 Cover Design 12 2200 Jackie Taylor 88 2266 1111 66 2244 Photographers 2222 Luisa Porter 2211 2255 Kelly Tippett 1155 Graphic Artists 1199 Jackie Taylor Jay Armstrong 77 Production Tina Perry 1188 Matt Garner 1166 1144 2288 22 ABOUT 55 THE COVER

ABERDEEN HIGH SCHOOL EAST WEBSTER COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL NEW HOPE HIGH SCHOOL STARKVILLE HIGH SCHOOL 100 Bulldog Blvd., Aberdeen 195 Old Cumberland Road, Maben 3419 New Hope Road, Columbus 603 Yellowjacket Drive, Starville 1 662-369-8933 8 662-263-5321 15 662-244-4701 22 662-324-4130 ALICEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL HAMILTON HIGH SCHOOL NOXUBEE COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL SULLIGENT HIGH SCHOOL 417 3rd St. SE, Aliceville 40201 Hamilton Road, Hamilton 16478 Hwy. 45, Macon 661 Elm Street, Sulligent 2 205-373-6378 9 662-343-8307 16 662-76-4428 23 205-698-9254 AMORY HIGH SCHOOL HEBRON CHRISTIAN SCHOOL OAK HILL ACADEMY VICTORY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1006 Sam Haskell Circle, Amory 6230 Henryville Road, Pheba 800 N. Eshman, West Point 374 Mill Road, Columbus 3 662-256-5753 10 662-494-7513 17 662-494-0301 24 662-327-7744 Players from West CALEDONIA HIGH SCHOOL HERITAGE ACADEMY PICKENS ACADEMY WEST LOWNDES HIGH SCHOOL Point, New Hope, 111 Confederate Drive, Caledonia 625 Magnolia Lane, Columbus 225 Ray Bass Road, Carrollton 644 South Frontage Road, Columbus Columbus, Heritage 4 662-356-2001 11 662-327-5272 18 205-367-8144 25 662-244-5070 Academy, Caledonia, CENTRAL ACADEMY IMMANUEL CENTER FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION PICKENS COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL WEST OKTIBBEHA COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL 300 Hale Street, Macon 6405 Military Road, Steens 205 4th Ave. SE, Reform 2459 Holland Street, Maben West Lowndes, 662-726-5846 662-328-7888 256-375-2344 662-263-8106 Starkville, and Noxubee 5 12 19 26 COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL LAMAR COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL SOUTH LAMAR SCHOOL WEST POINT HIGH SCHOOL County high schools 215 Hemlock Street, Columbus 43880 Hwy. 17 S, Vernon 300 Sls Road, Millport 950 S. Eshman Avenue, West Point came together at 6 662-241-7200 13 205-695-7129 20 205-662-4411 27 662-494-5083 Columbus High to take EAST OKTIBBEHA COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL LOUISVILLE HIGH SCHOOL STARKVILLE ACADEMY WINSTON ACADEMY 178 Moor High Road, Crawford 200 Ivy Avenue, Louisville 505 Academy Drive, Starkville 111 Richardson Road, Louisville the picture. Kelly 662-272-5603 662-773-3431 662-323-7814 662-773-3569 Tippett/Dispatch Staff. 7 14 21 28

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 3 COLUMBUS HIGH FALCONS

1-Jimmy Cockrell, 2-Damian Baker, 3-Rashad Meeks, 4-Cedric Jackson, 5-Justin Tate, 6-Keith Brooks, 7-Kevin Jackson, 8-Iziah Jones, 9-Jabari Edwards, 10-Jamarcus Jones, 11-Martavious McKinney, 12-DeMarcus Vance, 13-Devonta Petty, 15-Deonta Jones, 16-Trace Lee, 17-Quavis Sherrod, 18-Gemriah Williams, 19-Jarcquarius Clark, 20-George Lowery, 21-Tyler Sanders, 22-Jamie Taylor, 23-Darius Deloach, 24-Quan Latham, 25-Byerson Cockrell, 26-Damian Moore, 27-James Hayes, 28-Jordan Dean, 29-Eric Roberts, 30-Marques O'Neal, 31-Kendric Conner, 32-Josh Thomas, 33-Tupac O'Neal, 34-Ramadus Beasley, 35-Brian Osby, 36-Larry Williams, 37-Tim Hudgins, 38-Deon Taylor, 39-Bennie Harris, 40-Horatio Buchannan, 41-Bylonn Johnson, 42-Jarvis Ellis, 43-Devontess Harris, 44-Corey Brown, 45-Tobia McCoy, 46-Terrance Turner, 47-Chris Conner, 48-Tyler Calvert, 49-Tyler Davis, 50-Kaderreon Hood, 52-Justin Verner, 53-T.J. Robinson, 54-Orlando Taylor, 55-Jamel Grant, 56-Kenny Averhart, 57-David Porter, 58-Jarvis Glenn, 59-Jeremy Morgan, 60-Kenneth Miller, 62-Broderick Trimuel, 64-Jerome Monroe, 65-Cedric Jones, 67-Channon Harris, 68-John Wiley, 69-Chris McCullough, 70-Austin Andrews, 71-Aaron Stanton, 72-Tyris Brooks, 73-Greg Sykes, 74-Tremarcus Monroe, 75-Martavious Mitchell, 78-Jake Thomas, 79-Josh Tate, 80-Charlie King, 81-Keshawn Adams, 82-Dalon Moore, 83-Chris ISCockrell, 85-AnthonyTHIS Liddell, 85-Meunta YEAR Verner, 86-Greg Giles, CHS87-Michael Sturdivant, LEARNS 88-Kris Reliford, 89-Javaris Johnson. HOW TO FINISH?

BY ADAM MINICHINO [email protected] 2011 SCHEDULE Finish. It sounds so simple. Aug. 19 At Aberdeen Try to finish in 100- Aug. 26 Open degree heat, or with a heat SEPT. 2 WEST POINT index that eclipses triple SEPT. 9 NEW HOPE figures. Sept. 16 At Louisville The Columbus High SEPT. 23 TUPELO School football team can Sept. 30 At Southaven OCT. 7 SOUTH PANOLA do it. Oct. 14 At Desoto Central Try to finish a game OCT. 21 HORN LAKE when you’re already Oct. 28 At Olive Branch shorthanded due to a host NOV. 4 GRENADA of injuries. The Falcons need only HOME GAMES IN CAPS look back at their victory against Starkville High Class 6A last season to know they Region 1, District 2 can do that, too. Turn the page to 2011. Columbus Can this be the year DeSoto Central Columbus High silences Grenada the skeptics, realizes its Horn Lake potential, and records its Olive Branch first winning season since Southaven 2007? South Panola “It is going to be the Tupelo year,” Columbus High NOTE: Top four qualify for senior linebacker Beau playoffs. South Panola is Edwards said. “A lot of two-time defending 6A state people say it could be the Columbus High School will look to the return of a healthy Byerson Cockrell, left, and the emergence of senior linebacker Beau champion. year and Columbus hasn’t Edwards to help the Falcons have a breakthrough season. Kelly Tippett/Dispatch Staff been consistent. I say they’re wrong. This is the year we’re going to win victory at Starkville. Not with the Falcons and moti- practice. They have made He is not going to be out- the whole thing. South only did the Falcons deny vates them to finish when two-minute drills a fixture spoken, but he is going to Panola anybody who steps the Yellow Jackets a games are on the line this in practices to help pre- make plays on the field. in the way is going to get chance to earn a playoff season. vent late-game collapses The kids respect him and broken down.” berth, but they also deliv- “We can make a change that have plagued the pro- look to him to do things Edwards and classmate ered a goal-line stand at for Columbus,” said gram in recent years. The out on the field.” Byerson Cockrell have the 1-yard line that pre- Cockrell, who played in feeling is the players have Stanford took over last heard the talk from previ- vented the tying points only one game in 2010 responded well to the year late in the summer ous classes that they were from scoring. before suffering a season- pushing and the prodding after head coach Bubba Have a going to be the group to Past Columbus High ending injury. “This can and all of the lessons. Davis retired. He felt the change the program’s for- teams might not have be a turning point for Stanford feels the team transition from defensive Great tunes. But while the team been able to deliver. Columbus. We really have has answered the call in coordinator to head coach Season! Edwards and Cockrell a chance to build. We need part because of Edwards affected the players, but has matured and has GO grown stronger it has won know that all too well. But to get serious and do it.” and Cockrell. that everyone is on the S! CON only eight games in the they don’t intend to let Columbus High coach “We feel (Beau’s) lead- same page and realizes FAL past three years. their senior season be Tony Stanford and his ership comes from his this group, which includes Last year, Columbus another one to forget. staff have matched that work ethic,” Stanford said. seniors like running back ended a season of ups and Their goal is to make attitude and have given “He has worked hard to Damian Baker, quarter- downs and what could surer the feeling from that the players more chances get to a leadership role. 1120 Gardner Blvd have beens with a 34-32 Nov. 5, 2010, game sticks to experience winning in “Byke is a quiet leader. See COLUMBUS, 9 Columbus, MS 328-5776 HAVE A GOODOOD LUCKLUCK GRREATEAT SEASON! TO AALLLL TTHEHE Make sure your Grandma and Grandpa have a safe and enjoyable Football Season by keeping these things in mind when they’re in the stands: AREAAREA TEAMS!TEfromAMS! • Many Elderly take medication that can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature Brown’s Farm & Garden • Make sure they stay hydrated and carry an umbrella for extra shade Hwy. 182 East • 901 Alabama St. • Columbus, MS • 662-329-2281 • Keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion: a throbbing headache, Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m. • Saturday 7:30 a.m.-Noon dizziness, or nausea • For more information, or to learn how our trained staff can help your grand Yoourur FFeedeed HHeadquarterseadquarters parents safely attend your games, please give us a call or visit our website h

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 4 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com NEW HOPE TROJANS

2-Trae Collins, 3-James Hill, 4-Daniel Gregory, 5-Horace Carr, 6-Victor Deloach, 7-Jemarqus Brooks, 8-Q Newby, 9-Jaquin Weatherspoon, 10-Darius Petty, 11-Howard Petty, 12-Preston Davis, 14-Javontay Lewis, 15-Nathan Sprouse, 16-Ryan Lee, 17-DeAngelo Hamilton, 18-Lonnie Stephenson, 19-E.J. Jenkins, 20-Dalton King, 21-Jameel Johnson, 22-Devin Walton, 23-M.J. Shirley, 24-Todd Harris, 25-Brandon Spann, 26-Tre Townsel, 27-Ryan Lowe, 28-Shontae Miller, 30-Austin Oswalt, 31-Fred Harrison, 32-Quinton White, 34-David Richardson, 35-Dylan Tribolet, 36-Jeremy Washington, 37-Ben Veazey, 38-Tyler Faris, 40-Hunter Harris, 42-Ryan Forrester, 44-Terrence Payne, 45-Jacob Bowen, 49-Dustin Owens, 50-Joseph Hreish, 52-Joseph Reeves, 53-J.C. Redden 54-Kearick Patterson, 55-Jace Caldwell, 56-Derek Pierce, 57- Justin Sherrod, 58-Lee Pegram, 59-Morgan Franks. 60-Matt Barnes, 61-Eric Romans, 62-Nate Saint, 64-Dalton Gray, 65-Juan Cedano, 70-Allen Harvey, 72-Drew Hoyt, 74-Andrew Vasser, 75- SENIORSThomas Fisher, 76-Brodi Owens, 77-Leebo Davis,WILL 78-Marcus Johnson, TRY 79-Rashaud Terry, TO 80-Ryan Dye, CREATE82-Tavoris Crowell, 86-Lawrence Brown, THEIR 88-Wesley Roland. LEGACY

BY ADAM MINICHINO Golden Triangle area epito- 5A North State title game in [email protected] mizes that mind-set more 2009 and the second round of than the New Hope High the playoffs last season. Programs are built on School football team. This year, 15 New Hope legacies. With only one major seniors will try to pick up Initial classes might not Division I signee in the past where last year’s group left realize it, but their hard work five years (Jonathan Guerry, off. and sacrifice often are the ele- Southern Miss), New Hope “We just have to keep up ments that establish a foun- has thrived thanks to a team the work ethic, the continu- dation on which future approach and an attitude that ous work ethic like the guys groups can build. it is going to outwork oppo- who set the standard for us,” Once that cast is set, it nents and it is never going to senior lineman Lee Pegram takes focus and diligence to give up. said. “Our goal is to over- ensure the identity that has That mentality has come that standard. We try to been forged lives and grows pushed the Trojans to the make that the classes below in each subsequent class. Mississippi High School ours job. We want every year No school in the Greater Activities Association Class every senior class to work

Front row, from left: New Hope High School seniors David Richardson, Darius Petty, Lee Pegram, and “Roc” Carr and back row, from left: Lawrence Brown and JoJo Reeves will try to take what they have learned from past classes and play with heart and guts. Adam Minichino/Dispatch Staff

harder than the last senior Richardson Jr., who has Brown said he and the other class.” remained humble and contin- seniors have to lead from the Pegram and classmate ue to push himself to be the front not from behind this David Richardson epitomize best. season if they want to raise the energy that drives New Those are things coach the bar again for the 2012 Hope. Neither player has Michael Bradley tried to class. been blessed with the most introduce when he took over Richardson said New athletic gifts, but both players the program. It took him a Hope has another reason to prefer to work as hard as they year to get the message out display that style of leader- can to maximize what they that New Hope wasn’t going ship. can do. to be outworked and that he “We want to prove that In a sense, their heart and didn’t need or want prima because we lost all of those guts fuels them and sets an donnas to win football games. seniors that we’re still good example for the younger “We coach every day and we can still compete with classes. doing the little things, and everybody else,” Richardson “If we show leadership our kids respond to it,” said. “If you give all you got and show we can go hard and Bradley said. “We coach something good is going to give everything we have, I working hard, we coach happen.” think everyone will see it,” starting something and fin- Brown knows New Hope Richardson said. ishing it, and our guys won’t enter this season with This group of seniors has respond to that. Our guys the preseason expectations matured watching players believe in what we’re doing last year’s team did. Still, that like defensive lineman Seth and what we’re teaching. doesn’t decrease the respon- Stillman play with one arm They believe what we’re sibility these seniors will feel after separating his shoulder. doing is going to give us the for maintaining what the first They have followed the best chance to be successful. classes established. example of Franklin If you have leaders who “We don’t have the BAPTIST GOLDEN TRIANGLE offers convenient believe you’re going to be biggest kids or the strongest 2011 successful, they can pass it kids or the fastest kids. We SCHEDULE on the younger kids and it just have the heart,” Brown locations and skilled, caring staff to treat sports creates a culture.” said. “Being the underdog is Aug. 19 at Louisville Earlier this week, Bradley what we like. We like for Aug. 26 Open reinforced that point when he nobody to give us a chance. injuries big and small. Whether you need outpatient SEPT. 2 NOXUBEE singled out the efforts of 140- We have shown that in the Sept. 9 at Columbus pounder Preston Davis for playoffs. At playoff time we SEPT. 16 CALEDONIA fighting his way onto a kick- always have been the under- Sept. 23 at Saltillo off coverage group and near- dog and we always found a diagnostic services, physical rehabilitation, or just a SEPT. 30 OXFORD Oct. 7 at Hernando ly making a play against 11 way to win. That is just how it OCT. 14 LAKE CORMORANT players. Bradley encouraged is at New Hope.” bandage, our team will have you back with your team Oct. 21 at Clarksdale his players to follow the And if one class doesn’t OCT. 28 CENTER HILL example of Davis because he follow through, they will get a NOV. 4 AT WEST POINT would like to see more play- reminder of just what it is in no time. ers take charge of a situation supposed to do. HOME GAMES IN CAPS rather than watch players not “Last year, Jeremy Wells give their best effort. came back after a game we Have a Senior tight end did real horrible in and didn’t Great Lawrence Brown said that play with much heart and thinking has become second said we were messing up Season! nature to the Trojans. everything they started,” GO “We take a lot of pride in senior JoJo Reeves said. “He NS! it,” Brown said. “That is what said we have to continue that ROJA T we have been doing and prac- tradition. Since then, we have ticing since we were in mid- stepped it up a little bit.” dle school.” That’s a legacy any New Now, though, there isn’t Hope class would be proud to

1120 Gardner Blvd another class to serve as the leave for future classes to Columbus, MS buffer from the front line. eclipse. 328-5776

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 5 CALEDONIA CONFEDERATES

1-Randy Randle, 2-Jon Jon Phinizee, 3-Jarrett Winston, 4-Ben Marchbanks, 5-Jason Bryant, 6-Gary Walden, 7-Trey Lancaster, 8-Brandon Henry, 10-Jonathan Pagaduan, 11-Peter Pagaduan, 12-James Longmire, 13-Joshua Kugel, 14-Ryan Unruh, 15-Sage Kangas, 16-Joshua Betts, 18-Lucas Eads, 20-Onterrio Lowery, 21-Chris Griffin, 22-Quavis Betts, 23-Nathan Brauer, 24-Jordan Anderson, 30-William Breen, 31-Tyler Armistad, 32-Christian Champion, 33-Cole Reed-Wood, 34-Dale Castle, 35-Orlandis Smith, 46-Anthony Brewer, 48-Cole Carter, 50-William Rushing, 53-Randy Weeks, 54-Jeremy Reedwood, 55-Hunter Griffin, 57-Cody Cliett, 58-Casey Staples, 59-Jacob Smith, 60-Tyler Blaine, 61-Stephen Sykes, 62-Andrew Phillips, 63-Darryl Williams, 64-Jarrett Hopper, 66-Will Mainka, 67-Zachery Harrell, 68-Stephen Black, 69-Colton Gilbreath, 70-Garrett Wester, 72-Tristan Nessell, 74-Reed Schoon, 77-Shane Chadwick, 78-Nicholas Moore, 79-Daniel Cunningham, 80-Jacob Rhodes, 83-Nathan Kendrick, 84- KENDRICKHunter McBride, 86-Xavier Hill, 88-Telvin FEELS Shinn. CONFEDERATES WILL BE BETTER PREPARED

BY GARY ESTWICK [email protected] 2011 SCHEDULE CALEDONIA — It starts with Ben Marchbanks, who takes AUG. 19 NETTLETON AUG. 27 WEST LOWNDES the snap from under cen- Sept. 2 at Heritage Academy ter. SEPT. 8 EAST WEBSTER He backpedals before Sept. 16 at New Hope turning to his right for a SEPT. 23 ACKERMAN handoff to Tyler Sept. 30 at Carthage Armistad. Or does he give OCT. 7 HOUSTON the football to Ontario Oct. 14 at Louisville Lowery, who cuts by Luke OCT. 21 KOSCIUSKO Eads? Oct. 28 at Noxubee County Or does Marchbanks keep it himself? HOME GAMES IN CAPS This is the challenge Caledonia’s Wing-T CLASS 4A offense plays to offer its 2011 opponents. REGION 4, DISTRICT 4 One season after Caledonia installing the deception- Houston filled system, second-year Kosciusko Leake Central coach Ricky Kendrick Louisville expects his young team to Noxubee County be better prepared to utilize it. That in itself, he believes, is a win. “People like to throw it around,” Kendrick said, INSIDE “but it gives us a chance to be more competitive. We I MORE CALEDONIA: A position by position look at try to control the tempo of From left: Caledonia High School’s Cole Carter, Randy Weeks, Will Breen, and Hunter Griffin will be the core group second-year head Page 9 games, try to slow it coach Ricky Kendrick looks to to help the program makes strides. Gary Estwick the Confederates. down, get first downs, move the sticks, play good begin to take care of them- “We want to build on what we did last year, establishing its place on Sure, no team shows up on special teams and on selves. the line of scrimmage so Fridays not to win. But he defense.” That doesn’t mean which was a good thing. Coming together as a linemen aren’t able to knows his squad has to For now, Caledonia will Caledonia, which went 1- focus on getting to him as learn a few more lessons continue to mount these 10 last season, won’t com- team during the summer workouts, and in the he attempts to fill in holes. before its players are types of small victories pete Friday nights. In fact, “We would like to get ready to challenge every until their play on the field, the Confederates will go spring. Building on that and hopefully, a good more parallel to the line of week without mental let- their strength in the weight out to win every Friday, scrimmage,” said Breen, a downs. room, and their mental just like any other team. playoff run.” senior. “We want to run “That doesn’t mean endurance with their play- They won’t play to lose. more downhill and attack we’re not going to com- But players and coach- the football, which we did- pete,” he said. book can equal or surpass Caledonia High School their opponents. es recognize the baby n’t do much of last year.” steps involved with build- lineman Cole Carter That area will be vital to “We just came in and Have a we told them, ‘Hey, our ing a foundation for a pro- the summer workouts, freshman we’ve had the the Caledonia’s success goal this year is to be com- gram that ended a 25- and in the spring. Building revolving coaches,” senior because the secondary is Great petitive. We don’t know game losing streak last on that and hopefully, a guard Hunter Griffin said. the team’s biggest ques- Season! how many ballgames season with an overtime good playoff run. “Stability this season has tion mark entering its sea- GO ! TES we’re going to win,’ win against Amory. “Obviously get more helped, so we’re excited. son opener against ERA FED Kendrick said. “I’m not “We want to build on than one win, which would We get to keep the same Nettleton. The athletes CON worried about Ws and Ls what we did last year, be nice.” offense, not learn a new are there, but they need to right now. I’m worried which was a good thing,” Actually, it would be one again.” do a better job of cover- about learning the game, senior tight end Cole great. On defense, linebacker age, Kendrick said. getting better at playing Carter said. “Coming “Not having a steady Will Breen said his unit Improvement is what the game, and the Ws will together as a team during coach — since I was a must do a better job of Kendrick is targeting. 1120 Gardner Blvd Columbus, MS 328-5776

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 6 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com IMMANUEL RAMS

2-Norris Harris, 5-JD Dantzler, 7-Michael Tate, 8-Brendan Bailey, 9-Bruce Baudoin, 10-KC Cunningham, 11-Darius Jones, 15-Douglas Keys, 17-Brennen Bowen, 24-Jason Davis, 25-Zach Ferguson, 41-BJ Shirley, 51-Zac Johnwick, 52-Zach Kimbrell, 53-James Wriley, 54-Josh Davidson, 56-Logan Shackelford, 58-Cody Dunn, 63-Josh Hughes, 65-Luke Hudson, 66-Will Harmond, 74-Jeremy Davidson, 79-Chris RAMSRandazzo. WILL RELY ON LEADERS IN MOVE UP

BY ADAM MINICHINO wrap them up, they’re not [email protected] going to go down. They are both strong and they both STEENS — Confidence have big tree-trunk legs and is only one part of the equa- they have the speed. Then tion. you throw in a Jason Davis, Every team needs lead- and he is faster than both of ers to implement the lessons those guys, and it really the coaches are teaching gives us a triple threat.” and to reinforce the belief Davis is a transfer from that their squad can accom- Columbus High. His pres- plish anything it sets its ence will help he Eagles mind to. overcome the loss of Ross Greg Watkins didn’t Moore, who was the team’s know if he was going to have quarterback last season. An any players like that when injury will keep Moore out of he left Hebron Christian to action this season. become the new head foot- Sophomore Darius Jones ball coach at Immanuel will take his place. Watkins coached at 2011 Winona Christian and at SCHEDULE East Holmes Christian before moving to Hebron AUG. 19 WINONA CHRISTIAN Christian. He spent the past Aug. 26 at Leake Academy two seasons as football SEPT. 2 MARSHALL ACADEMY coach at Hebron Christian, Sept. 9 at New Site which is in Pheba, and guid- SEPT. 16 CANTON ACADEMY ed the team to a 5-15 record. Sept. 23 Open Rob Barron, the school’s Sept. 30 at Carroll Academy new baseball coach, will join OCT. 7 POTTS CAMP Oct. 14 at Manchester Academy Watkins on the football staff OCT. 21 WINSTON ACADEMY as an assistant coach. Oct. 28 at Oak Hill Academy Back, from left: Immanuel Christian players Jason Davis, James Wriley, Norris Harris, and Jeremy Davidson and Michael Tate, front, will Watkins hopes he has be the leaders coach Greg Watkins will look to in his first season as a head coach at the school. Adam Minichino/Dispatch Staff addressed tackling, which HOME GAMES IN CAPS was one of his biggest con- delight — that he had a solid leadership because the Rams Manchester Academy, Oak from Caledonia High before cerns early in the preseason. core of leaders who were have faced a series of Hill Academy, and Winston the start of the 2010 season, “My big philosophy in MAIS ready to help their coach changes since last season’s Academy in District 2AA. has tried to be proactive in coaching is practice makes Class AA transition into a new role. history-making season. “We have moved the ball getting his teammates to habits,” Watkins said. “In the District 2AA The leadership of return- Shawn Gates, who led the on them,” Tate said. “It is not believe. league we’re in and against ing players Jeremy team to a 6-6 record and its like we haven’t played these “If you walk out there the backs we’re going to Canton Academy Davidson, Norris Harris, first trip to the Mississippi teams. We moved the ball on thinking you will get beat face, if we don’t tackle it is Immanuel Christian Michael Tate, and James Association of Independent them in jamborees. It isn’t you will get beat,” Harris going to be a long year.” Leake Academy Manchester Academy Wriley and newcomer Jason Schools 11-man playoffs, going to be an issue of mov- said. “If you walk out there Harris and Tate are Oak Hill Academy Davis have helped Watkins resigned, as did assistant ing the ball and getting thinking you are the tough- focused on making an Winston Academy introduce a new offense and coaches Bubba Davis, who is yards. It is going to be a mat- est one on the field, you will impact in their final high a new way of doing things at now at Starkville Academy, ter of stopping other teams’ play like that.” school season. They Christian. Immanuel Christian. and Daniel Merchant, who is offenses.” Watkins said Harris has acknowledge the step up in It didn’t take him long to “You can strategize and now at Nettleton. Tate’s attitude reflects tried on occasion to pump classification will be a chal- discover — much to his you can talk to the players, Those coaches not only the confidence Watkins has his teammates up when they lenge, but they are invested but a coach isn’t going to win helped Immanuel Christian worked to instill. Earlier in have lost their energy due in and eager to see how they Have a a championship. You have to get back to the playoffs, but the preseason, he posted a part to fatigue or the hot stack up. Great have leaders, and I have got they also guided the team to message on the door to the weather. He is excited about “We have a good enough Season! some pretty good leaders,” a 14-13 victory against field house that stressed that working with Tate, Harris, team to make the playoffs Watkins said. “That is one Houlka on Oct. 1 that was everyone in the locker room and Davis in a misdirection again,” Tate said. “We have GO thing I was hoping for when the program’s first against needed to believe that Rams offense that will force more talent this year than we S! RAM I came here is that I would an 11-man team. could accomplish their defenses to pick their poi- did last year.” have some guys step up as The MAIS “rewarded” goals. It said players and son. Said Harris, “We have the leaders. I know Norris and Immanuel Christian for its teams were defeated if they “They are two real good talent and the speed and a lot Jeremy Davidson are two success by moving it from didn’t believe in what they running backs,” Watkins of leaders on the team. We senior leaders as good as Class A to Class AA, where it were going to do when they said of Tate and Harris. have a great coach, too. I 1120 Gardner Blvd you’ll find.” will be paired with Canton left the locker room. “They are like what we’re think we can get something Columbus, MS Watkins has relied on that Academy, Leake Academy, Harris, who transferred going to face. If you don’t 328-5776 done.” Pllayay iitt ssafeafe oonn tthehe ﬁ eld...eld... Don’t let ASTHMA keep you Playlay iitt ssafeafe oonn yyourour ttires!ires! from winning the game... Tiresires Allignmentsignments

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 7 VICTORY CHRISTIAN EAGLES

1-Austin Richardson, 2-Will Jones, 3-Bryer Bolton, 5-Reed Fulgham, 11-Shane Bradford, 12-Hunter Austin, 13-Will Porter, 14-Tayler Frye, 19-Roy Boden, 21-Anthony Sharp, 22-Cody Bolton, 23-Will Pitts, 32-Jay Pace, 33-Charlie Price, 34-Kaleb Holliness, 48-Paul Blair, 52-Joshua Foxworthy, 54-Chase Austin, 55-Bo McCrary, 56-Brandon Shaw, 64-Aaron Ott, 75-Clinton Spencer, 80-Nick Hairston, 88-Sam Fisher,MORE 99-Michael Elliott. IS ONLY WAY TO GO New leaders excited for chance to move into bigger roles for Eagles BY ADAM MINICHINO “It is a team effort rest of the upperclassmen [email protected] to set the tempo. “It is not necessarily Kaleb Holliness and this year. I think we rebuilding the program as Jay Pace don’t have a will do just fine. As much as it is rebuilding problem with doing more. certain positions on the Whether it means help- long as everybody team,” Hamm said. “They ing a classmate with their have done a good job. We studies or spending extra does their job, we have been lifting weight time after football practice should have a good since school ended last to sharpen timing, the year. Jay has worked hard, players know the rewards team.” and Kaleb, as long as he are worth the extra time. has been playing, he has If the rest of the Victory Christian senior worked on his own to try Victory Christian football Jay Pace to get bigger. They both team takes that same worked hard in the offsea- approach the Eagles ondary. The 5-foot-8 1/2, son and look good in could have a successful 135-pounder will team terms of conditioning, season. with Pace and junior quar- strength, and leadership.” But Victory Christian terback Bryer Bolton, a Both players say they will have to do all of that transfer from Vernon, Ala. feel a lot stronger than with a new look. It remains to be seen they did last year and are Standouts Landon Ellis how many weapons ready and willing to do and Tyler Jones have Victory Christian will be more to help the team moved up, while senior able to develop to com- accomplish its goals. quarterback Marcus Sims pensate for the loss of “These guys seem to will miss the season to Ellis, but everyone agrees want to do well because recover from a near-fatal about the way the team the bar has been set car accident. should arrive there. where it has,” Hamm said. The openings have cre- “It is a team effort this “We have talked about ated positions Holliness, year,” Pace said. “I think why were doing what Pace, and the rest of the we will do just fine. As we’re doing, as far as two- Eagles are ready to long as everybody does a-days in 100-degree embrace. their job, we should have weather because we have “We just have to pull a good team.” to get through the suffer- together and pick up pret- Hamm shares the opti- ing before we experience ty much where we left off mism. He admits the fact the glory. even though we don’t that the team is in a “If we expect to suc- have Marcus,” Holliness “rebuilding type of year is ceed, we have to prepare said. “We have to encour- offset by the fact that ourselves so we can age people who have to there are young players in expect it, not just hope it step up to be in new spots. the program who are hun- happens.” There is no other way. gry to play football. You just have to keep Hamm said the days going forward.” when the Eagles would Said Pace, “We just feature a wide-open attack ABOVE, RIGHT: Victory have to step up the game, have given way to a more work harder, practice Christian running back/ physical brand of football. linebacker Jay Pace, left, and harder, and just give it 100 The loss of Sims dictat- senior running percent. People have to ed the Eagles were going back/safety/corner back Kaleb step into new roles and to change direction on Holliness stand in in the middle new responsibilities.” of shoulder pads hanging from offense. Hamm said the the rafters of the third-base Pace, who also plays team already had a good dugout on the baseball field at linebacker, is taking the amount of size up front, so the school. Both players are lead, moving into full- it was easy to change expected to play important back. He will be the lead schemes and go with a roles for a team that lost blocker for Holliness, several of its key performers power running game. from last season. who will step into a bigger “We’re probably work- Adam Minichino/ role on offense. ing even harder on the Dispatch Staff A year ago, Landon passing game this year Ellis and Tyler Jones took even though we want to 2011 the lion’s share of the be more of a physical SCHEDULE snaps. The time and ener- team because we know if gy they invested in the we can establish the run, Aug. 12 at Russell Christian program played a key role get the defense sitting on AUG. 19 VICTORY BAPTIST in Victory Christian win- a run and then hit the Aug. 26 Open ning the Christian pass, that play will be suc- SEPT. 2 NEW LIFE Football Association titles cessful when we need it,” SEPT. 9 TABERNACLE Sept. 16 Open in 2008 and 2009 and 30 Hamm said. “I think we’re Sept. 23 at Heritage Christian games in a row. That going to have to be more Sept. 29 at Flint Hill streak ended Nov. 5, 2010, of a ball-control, eight- to Oct. 7 Open when Tuscaloosa 10-play drive team. We’re Oct. 14 at North River Christian defeated going to have to control OCT. 21 TUSCALOOSA CHRISTIAN Victory Christian 24-20. the ball, not make mis- HOME GAMES IN CAPS “It’s going to be hard to takes, not fumble the ball, step in for Landon not commit penalties, all because usually when he of the things that kill Have a touched the ball it was an drives.” Great automatic touchdown,” Hamm said the best Season! Holliness said. “We’re just participation in the team’s GO going to pick up where he offseason program creat- ! LES left off and trying to cre- ed added depth that he EAG ate new stuff.” hopes will be able to con- Holliness will step into tribute in future classes. a bigger role on offense. For now, though, He also will continue to Hamm will look to 1120 Gardner Blvd play a key role in the sec- Holliness, Pace, and the Columbus, MS 328-5776

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 8 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com HERITAGE ACADEMY PATRIOTS

PATRIOTS LIKE CHANCES TO HAVE BIG YEAR

BY ADAM MINICHINO [email protected] 2011

Brad Butler believes in SCHEDULE positive thinking and positive energy. Aug. 19 at Lamar AUG. 26 STARKVILLE ACADEMY He isn’t sure if those SEPT. 2 CALEDONIA things have any actual Sept. 9 at MRA medicinal value, but the Sept. 16 at Lee Heritage Academy foot- SEPT. 23 JA ball coach is convinced SEPT. 30 MAGNOLIA HEIGHTS good things will happen Oct. 7 at Oak Hill as a result of an approach Oct. 14 Open Oct. 21 at Washington that sees the glass as half OCT. 28 PILLOW full. But as much as Butler HOME GAMES IN CAPS believes in positive thinking, he understands it is MAIS ineffective if it isn’t put into action. CLASS AAA, This season, Butler DISTRICT 1AAA, plans to do his best to DIVISION II make a positive impres- Heritage Academy sion on his players. He Lee Academy hopes they will respond, Magnolia Heights Washington School stay focused through Jackson Academy adversity, and push the Madison-Ridgeland Academy team to realize its poten- Pillow Academy tial. NOTE: Jackson Academy, MRA, and “I think we have high- Pillow Academy are Division I. All er goals,” Butler said. “I The Heritage Academy football team will rely on its seniors this season to help it get back to the playoffs. Front row, from left: Clint regular-season games count toward Markham, Tyler Knight, and Mark Adams. Back row, from left: Brandon Bell, Blake Sharp, Hayden Higginbotham, and Tyler Marchak. think those guys realize determining the teams that will Kelly Tippett/Dispatch Staff advance to the playoffs. that if you keep pushing things can get better, but son, and senior running “If we put our heads together and focus on it young men who can con- said. “We feel he is good they’re just not going to back John Laws tribute a lot of things this for the team as a leader. I get better. Somebody has Ferguson in the third I think we can do it. It is our job as leaders to season. saw some leadership abil- to do something different game of the year. Both Even though ity out of him the first day to make it better. Good players were fixtures in help us do that and to keep everybody in Higginbotham, who has he was here. Normally things don’t all of a sud- the lineup, and their transferred from you don’t see that out of a den come to you. If you absence forced the team line.” Starkville High, and Bell guy on his first day. He keep working, keep to go through a rebirth are from other schools, does know some guys, but he showed some working good things will that took several games. Heritage Academy senior Mark Adams Butler likes the fact that happen. If you just sit When the Patriots that group has been leadership abilities on his back and wait for good emerged, they defeated through lean times as first day on campus.” and lost (senior running and get the boat headed things to happen it proba- Washington School and recently as 2009, when Higginbotham said it back) John (Laws back in the right direc- bly isn’t going to hap- showed the fight and the Patriots won their has been a huge change Ferguson) about the tion. pen.” tenacity Butler had first three games and and that his teammates third game and Brandon “It just took a few Heritage Academy is hoped to see earlier in then closed the season show a lot of promise. in the first game. It took games for us to get that coming off a four-win sea- the year. with eight consecutive “We’re coming hard us a while to get back done. We went into the son in which injuries “Well, as bad as we losses. and fast and we’re going going. We took a step Washington game and it played a key role. The struggled at one point “We have come a long to be mean,” back. I tell these guys all felt right again. From that Patriots lost starting last year we were still a way since I have been Higginbotham said. of the time you’re always point, we used that to quarterback Brandon few points away from here,” Sharp said. “I Higginbotham also going to face adversity. build on. I hated that we Bell, a transfer from making the playoffs,” thought we were going to has heard a lot about the Things pop up that you waited until two games Caledonia High School in Butler said. “We kind of be good when I first start- potential of the junior don’t count on and some- before the end to get that the fifth game of the sea- went through a lull there ed playing because of our class. He said he has body has to step back up done. If we start having size. I think we have a lot seen Miller Puckett’s some adversity we have of speed and playmakers speed and Cade Lott’s to right the ship pretty Achieve ultimate performance in our junior group. Last ability to make plays. But quick and get the ball year, they were young. I he also knows that it will and connect to the world rolling back in the right think they have grown up take more than a few direction.” with style. a little bit and that they players to help the This season, Butler will help us out.” Patriots realize their play- hopes a healthy Bell will Said Adams, off dreams. stay healthy for the entire “Everybody has a good “It’s in our hands,” season and be part of a attitude, and we have a Higginbotham said. “It is group of seven seniors he lot of returning players as far as we want to go is counting on the set the (16). I think everybody with it and how hard we tone. While the Patriots knows what we want to want to work is how far have greater depth in accomplish. If we put our we can go.” their junior and sopho- heads together and focus Butler will get a more classes, Butler feels on it I think we can do it. chance to see just how all seven players — Bell, It is our job as leaders to his team responds to Blake Sharp, Tyler help us do that and to adversity starting Friday, New Audéo SMART. The world’s smallest wireless Knight, Clint Markham, keep everybody in line.” when it travels to Lamar. hearing instrument. Mark Adams, Hayden Sharp is a three-year He hopes he will see a Higginbotham, and Tyler www.phonak-us.com starter on the defensive team that makes a state- Marchak — are quality line. Knight will see time ment in its opener and 30 day money back trial on all hearing aids at fullback and at Mike one that will fight back Have a when it is faced with Joseph S. Boggess, M.D. linebacker and Markham Great adversity. Walter N. Cosby, M.D. will play defensive end. Otolaryngology Until then, Butler is Justin M. Garner, M.D. Season! Marchak also is a two- counting on his seniors All our physicians are certiﬁed by the GO year starter, while Butler Associates, Ltd. American Board of Otolaryngology TS! feels confident being proactive to help TRIO Al Alexander, M.A., Audiologist PA Higginbotham will find a the team bounce back www.columbusoto.com Carrie Smith, Au.D., Audiologist place to make a contribu- after it is knocked down. tion. “We’re counting on Three Locations For Your Convenience! “He is eager to learn that so we don’t start Columbus Starkville West Point and doing everything we heading in the wrong 2430 5th St. N. 2 Professional Plaza 850 Emergency Drive 1120 Gardner Blvd Columbus, MS ask him to do,” Butler direction,” Butler said. 662.327.4432 662.323.8984 662.327.4432 328-5776

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 9 Inside Caledonia

need to learn the system quickly. OFFENSE "Reed played really good in the spring with the QUARTERBACK limited amount of snaps we had. He graded the second-best on the offense line." Ben Marchbanks, So Jarrett Winston, So TE we Marchbanks excelled at the position in the spring game, despite never playing it before. Cole Carter, Sr He's a converted tailback. Winston was the Ryan Unruh, Jr backup in 2010. Josh Kugel, Jr "We're going to run the football,” Caledonia Carter is being heavily recruited at offensive coach Ricky Kendrick said. “I have to have tackle, a position he somebody that can operate the offense. The will likely play on the next level. He and Unruh wing-t has to be smooth. Both of these kids split time at the position last season. give us a chance to do that." "When we go two tight end set, both of those FULLBACK guys will be on the field at the same time." can t Tyler Armistad, Jr

Cole Reed-Wood Jr. DEFENSE h Both players complement the other, although ENDS Reed-Wood is a better receiver out of the backfield. He will also see time at wingback. Randy Weeks, Sr i Ryan Unruh, Jr "The fullback is the main back in the wing-t. We IF s have to establish the running game, so it's a Tyler Blaine, Jr big load to carry. The ball will be equally shared Josh Kugel, Jr between all four of the backs. We want to keep Not a very experienced group. The group will be those kids as fresh as we can. I'd consider m small across across the front and will rely on them both starters." their mobility to get off the ball. "Ryan is a returning starter. Weeks hasn't TAILBACK played football, but he has looked good through

Ontario Lowery, So the spring and we think he'll be a big help to u us." Quavis Betts, So

The Confederates place two of their fastest c players at this position. “Lowery saw his first action last season against TACKLES Hamilton and ended up leading the team in Cole Carter, Sr h rushing. (Lowery) had a great spring. He had Hunter Griffin, Sr 256 yards rushing in the spring game. So we're real pleased with that. He's a real down hill Jeremy Reed-Wood, So runner. Betts hasn't seen much time, but has Casey Staples, Fr good speed." WINGBACK ILB Luke Eads, Jr Will Breen, Sr Cole Reed-Wood Jr. Tyler Armistad, Jr Randy Randall, Jr Eads will earn extended playing time after play- Colton Gilbreath, Jr ﬁ t ing in reserve role in 2010. Christian Champion, Fr "(Randall), he's a little fellow, but he'll get after Other than Breen and Armistad, the other play- you. He's a ers are inexperienced. STUFF really tenacious guy. He's not the best blocker, "We want to see some better run play out of but he can go. He gives us a little speed in the this group. We think we got some pretty skilled passing game." people." i

WRS OLB n

Trey Lancaster, Jr John Phinezee, Sr

Peter Pagaduan, Jr Trey Lancaster, Jr t

Jonathan Pagaduan, Jr Jarrett Winston, So h Justin Beats, So Cole Reed-Wood Jr.

Count on Caledonia receivers to concentrate on The Confederates are pleased with the their top i

creating running lanes in the secondary for their two linebackers. s backs. But don't be surprised by the occasional "We like John's leadership. He's very knowl- pass. edgeable. Helps us get lines up, makes sure we "The main thing we're looking for out of our have correct defensive alignment. Lancaster SKINNY split ends is that we want them to block." played a good bit last year as well. SECONDARY OL Luke Eads, Jr CENTER Randy Randall, Jr Garrett Wester, jr Peter Pagaduan, Jr Cody Cliett, Fr Jonathan Pagaduan, Jr "(Wester) did a good job in spring, graded really Justin Beats, So high. He had the best grade this spring game on the offensive line. Ben Marchbanks, So Ontario Lowery, So The position group is perhaps the biggest ques- GUARD tion mark on the team. The secondary players Hunter Griffin, Sr did not cover well during the spring. Because of Jarrett Hopper, Jr this, offensive players like Lowery and Marchanks will be available if other players Colton Gilbreath, Jr struggle. The guard position is vital to the wing-t. The "It's almost like we're staring over there. We guards must have fast feet in order to get out in feel like we have good athletes, but we've got AD front of blocks. They can't let their backs beat to get the right fit." them to the hole or the offense is in trouble. "(Griffin offers) great leadership. Has really risen to what you'd expect out of a senior, to pull those young kids just with him." SPECIAL TEAMS , KICKER think OT PUNTERJosh Kugel, Jr Tyler Blaine, Jr w Will Mainka, So Will Breen, Sr Reed Schoon, So LS

Zach Harrell, Jr Zach Harrell, Jr h Caledonia is inexperienced at the position and a

Columbus t Continued from Page 3 back Cedrick Jackson, (from last season) nagging reminder that has and wide receiver because we didn’t have pushed him through could ﬁt in a Deontae Jones, just to any leadership,” Edwards sprints at the end of prac- name three — can be spe- said. “My being a junior, I tice. He sees the same cial. was still getting the posi- effort from his teammates you “We have been looking tion down. I still could and feels the team is only for that bunch to step up have been a leader, but not going to improve if every- and take over for two being confident in myself one is giving their all so years,” Stanford said. “It is to play the position, I start- they’re capable of doing time for them to finish this ed getting confident later their best. year. Every year we have on in the year, which is Only then, he said, will 10’ x 10’ finished the season we when I started to step up the Falcons be able to fin- have felt like we should as a leader and directing ish. have won two or three guys in what to do and not “I can’t really talk that more ballgames if we had to do. We didn’t have that much, but I want every- finished, and we didn’t fin- powerful leadership that body to come out to the ish.” we have this year.” games and see,” Edwards Edwards would like Cockrell, a safety, said said. “We’re going to show nothing better to help it was painful to stand on them. We feel great. Columbus finish. As a the sidelines with an Everybody is in shape, RIENDLY sophomore, he bounced injured shoulder and not and most of the people F from quarterback to full- be able to help his team- who were key players last back and didn’t really have mates. He said the injury year are back. You put a position. It wasn’t until motivated him to come those little pieces in the the coaches moved him to back and affect a change puzzle and we’re going to linebacker that he found a in the program. He feels complete that puzzle. That home, and he has spent he is back to where he is why we feel this is going ITY the past year making it his was last year and is ready to be the year. There are C home. to do whatever needed to no letbacks or setbacks. Mini-Warehouses Stanford said Edwards get the Falcons on the We’re just going to go for- worked through typical playoff track. ward. We’re going to fin- growing pains and under- Edwards feels ish the puzzle and glue it 2 Convenient Locations stands how to play the Columbus is already close together and make sure it position well enough to to that goal. He said the is stuck.” dictate to others. inability to finish games “It’s a lot different last season has been a 662-328-2424

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 10 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 11 WEST LOWNDES PANTHERS

1-Jermaine Thomas, 2-Eric Harris, 3-Bryant Smith, 4-Quantavis Snell, 5-Deion Ames, 6-Gerald Sanders, 7-Darius Farmer, 8-Justin Stephenson, 10-Antonio Wilson, 11-Dominique Kelly, 12-Cody Crawford, 13-Brandon Malone, 14-Phytrel Williams, 15-Henry Mayfield, 20-Trevor Stowers, 21-Jamal Lasker, 22-Javarious Ellis, 23-Jonathon Mixon, 24-Kendrick Sanders, 25-Roy Miller, 30-Tyler Brown, 32-Marquise Miller, 34-Jevontrae Williams, 38-Dexter Farmer, 50-Krayveon Harris, 52-Demarcus Hill, 54-Ladarius Jackson, 55-Breshon Brooks, 58-Ronnie Porter, 59-Katzman Rogers, 60-Korey Wilson, 65-Sean Smith, 66-Raheem Brewer, 68-Dontavious Riley, 70-Dalen Sanders, 70-Jaboris Davis, 74-Levonte Campbell, 75-Martin Lyons, 80-Daniel Davis, 81-Tyshon Rogers, 82-Kovi Rice, 83-Jacobie Burnett, 88-Eddie WILSONPippins. WILL LEAD PANTHERS INTO NEW BATTLES

BY GARY ESTWICK in which he rushed for Hill knows if they can selfish.” [email protected] more than 2,000 yards. create even the smallest King was hired in July to The problem for oppo- running lane for Wilson, if take over for Berry, his for- Starting this fall, nents in 2011? they can hold their blocks mer football coach. Antonio Wilson will make “I want to do more,” just a little better, a little “I think he’s done a some new friends. Wilson said. “I want to get longer than last season, heck of a job at West So long Hamilton High my team to the state cham- Wilson can sprint out the Lowndes,” King said of School. Nice to meet you pionship.” trenches, into defensive Berry, who coached foot- West Oktibbeha. A year later, the 5-foot-8, secondaries and often- ball at the school since It’s been nice 160-pound playmaker is times, reach the end zone. 1998 and spent more than Ackerman. Noxapater, stronger. A year later, the “I like to see him bust four decades involved in we’ve heard a lot about same 260-pound bench out and make touch- high school sports. “I could you. press he considered his downs,” Hill said. “It feels tell from the first condition- Hope things work out, max now feels light. So good blocking for him.” ing workout with that kids Eupora, but we’ve got an defenders, if you get a hand West Lowndes (6-5 last that they were real likable October date against Weir. on him, you better make season) will again run a and he had done a good job Wilson, a senior running sure it’s two hands, and you spread offense, its way of with discipline. They’re all- back at West Lowndes High better hang on for a ride. keeping defenses guessing around good kids.” School, plans to offer mem- He’s faster — even with formations ranging Wilson is a member of orable first impressions to faster than last season from two tight ends to the that group. He is going to his new Friday night oppo- when he could reach the Wing-T, a new look for the do his best to focus on the nents now that the Panthers end zone faster than you Panthers. scoreboards. Sure, he’ll have switched from Class could say The Dispatch While the Panthers take as many yards as he 2A to 1A in the Mississippi 2010 Small Schools All- want to improve on the can get, but he’s more con- High School Activities Area co-offensive Player of field, perhaps the top item cerned about making a Association and longtime the Year. on their 2011 wish list will memorable first impres- coach Bobby Berry has “We’re pretty much be improved player leader- sion in Class 1A. retired. One of his former going to lean on Antonio ship. Last year, depth and “Some of my teammates lettermen, Anthony King Wilson,” offensive coordi- mental breakdowns caused are looking up to me,” he (Class of 1988), will take nator Todd Stanley said. another late season let- said, “so I have to step up over. “There’s no doubt about it. down. this season.” Accomplishing this task He’s got some things you Too many times the will place the Panthers just can’t coach. He’s quick Panthers had the depth 2011 closer to the playoffs, clos- and he’s shifty. He sees and focus to keep games er to advancing past the things on the field other close in the first, second, SCHEDULE first round for the first time kids just don’t see. He and third quarters — even in more than a decade. knows how to step off early in the fourth quarter Aug. 19 at Montgomery Co. West Lowndes High School senior running back Antonio Wilson Wilson is capable of blocks, when to accelerate, — but not in the final min- Aug. 25 at Caledonia rushed for more than 2,000 yards last season. He likely will get leading the effort. He is and when to go slow.” utes. Too many players lost SEPT. 2 SHANNON just as many chances to rush for the same total this season. SEPT. 9 ETHEL coming off a junior season All Wilson needs is his Gary Estwick their focus late in the sea- Sept. 16 Open son, including their 58-24 Sept. 23 at East Oktibbeha Inside West Lowndes inexperienced offensive loss to Baldwyn in the first SEPT. 30 NOXAPATER linemen to mature in time round of the playoffs. Oct. 7 at Pelahatchie QUARTERBACK experience, a cause for Linebacker for the season opener Aug. “It wasn’t as far as I want- OCT. 14 WEST OKTIBBEHA Gerald Sanders, Justin concern early this fall. Ronnie Porter, 19 against Montgomery ed to go, but we had some Oct. 21 at Nanih Waiya Stephenson. “We’ve had a lot of Trevor Stowers, OCT. 28 WEIR County. Senior DeMarcus success last year,” said Nov. 4 at Sebastopol I The Panthers need dropped balls in practice. I Phytrel Williams, and Hill, who will move from Gerald Sanders, who is Sanders, now in his sec- know it’s early, but, Marquise Miller. right guard to left tackle, is entering his senior season HOME GAMES IN CAPS ond season as starting we definitely have to get This fall will mark I the lone returning starter. quarterback, to take on better in that area. They’re Williams’ first season as a as starting quarterback. He more running duties. While going to have starter, while Porter Because of this, he is also plays defensive back. CLASS 1A he played well last year, to step up.” and Stowers are returning preparing for a season of “We just didn’t have the Sanders wasn’t the rush- starters. playing as well as teach- leadership. This year, we REGION 3, DISTRICT 4 ing threat he needed to OFFENSIVE LINE “Trevor, he pretty much ing. have it. We’re going to have “It’s a challenge our heads in the game this East Oktibbeha be. DeMarcus Hill, calls the defense, gets Ethel “He’s going to have to Ladarius Jackson, everybody lined up. because I’m a senior, so I’m year. We have friends that Nanih Waiya take a bigger load,” West Breshon Brooks, He’s going to run to the going to have to push peo- listen to the players. They Noxpater Lowndes coach Anthony Levonte Campbell, football. Ronnie Porter is Pelahatchie ple to do better,” Hill said. talk to the players, motivate Sebastopol King said. “Our offense is Korey Wilson, Jaboris the same way. He “Hopefully they can push them to do better. We don’t Weir designed for our quarter- Davis, and Martin Lyons. doesn’t say a lot, but he me, too.” have anyone trying to be West Lowndes backs to step up and run I Hill and Jackson are doesn’t mind sticking his West Oktibbeha the ball. He’s going to three-year starters. The nose in there.” have to take some of the Panthers are hoping to pressure off of Antonio.” add more depth early this SECONDARY season. Jamal Lasker, Eric Harris, RUNNING BACKS “Hill and Jackson, they Justin Stephenson, Antonio Wilson, know what to do, and Jermaine Thomas, Jevontrae Williams, and hopefully, they will Deion Ames, and Trevor Stowers. bring the other two guys Gerald Sanders. I Stowers earned playing along. Wilson started on I Two new players will time last year after Wilson the line as a start at cornerback. They and the offense had sever- sophomore and last year, will get the first shot al games in hand. Williams came off the bench on at the job. Behind them, was brought up late last defense. This year, four or five players could season after the junior he’s back on the offensive be called on to high season. He’s bringing line.” step in. brought up slowly behind “Lasker and Harris, both of the older backs. DEFENSIVE LINE them are fast. They’re not Proud to “Antonio is our starter. He Korey Wilson, that tall (5-foot-7), but was a big part of our Ladarius Jackson, they’re fast with good support the offense last year and a lot Breshon Brooks, cover skills, lose hips and of teams know it. Behind Jaboris Davis, can turn and run with any- West Lowndes him, Trevor has the most DeMarcus Hill, body.” experience. He’s just a Darius Farmer, and Panthers! hard nosed player. He’s a Raheem Brewer. KICKER / PUNTER little guy, but his Trevor Stowers I West Lowndes will uti- motor is wide open. If we lize a five-man front, simi- put him at center, he’d lar to the defensive line “I think we just need to play center.” develop a little bit more coach King utilized at Priscilla King depth and get them play- Noxubee County. RECEIVERS ing in a big cohesive unit. 940 Tuscaloosa Road Deion Ames, “At nose guard — the After all, we lost about Columbus, MS least-experienced position Darius Farmer, half the starters from last 662-328-9988 Jermaine Thomas, on the defensive line — year. There’s a lot of new Henry Mayfield, we will rotate Brooks and faces out there, so it’s Quantavis Snell, and Davis and Brewer. We’re going to take some time Marquise Miller. going to do a lot of shuf- to jell. But the talent is I Farmer is the lone fling because those guys out there.” receiver/tight end with are going to get tired. — Coach Anthony King HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 12 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com 2010 Mississippi Heat Pump Award TVA Mississippi Service Area

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JACKETS STRONG UP FRONT Cannon, Rogers expected to be fixtures on offensive line, to carry team

BY DAVID MILLER after playing right guard [email protected] 2011 last season. SCHEDULE “It all comes with get- STARKVILLE — One ting older and knowing look at Starkville High’s Aug. 19 at Noxubee County you have to have the right roster shows tremendous AUG. 26 MADISON CENTRAL mind-set,” Rogers said. losses from its breakout SEPT. 2 TUPELO “Sometimes your mind is squad of 2010. Sept. 9 at West Point stronger than what you Quarterback and 30- Sept. 16 Open feel like when you’re tired. SEPT. 23 LANIER touchdown scorer Jaquez I’m still working on that. Johnson is gone, as are pri- SEPT. 30 PROVINE Oct. 7 at Ridgeland There was a time I pulled mary receiving targets OCT. 14 CANTON the wrong way just Shaquille Hill and Oct. 21 at Yazoo City because I used to play Martavious Foster. OCT. 28 CALLAWAY right guard. You got to be Running backs Jakarta Nov. 4 at Neshoba Central mentally strong, play well Agnew and Garrett Smith HOME GAMES IN CAPS and play right.” are gone, too. Cannon has seized the So how will the Yellow moment of his senior year, Jackets score this year? CLASS 5A too, after missing spring The answer isn’t in the REGION 2, DISTRICT 6 practice due to academic backfield or out wide; it’s ineligibility. He took sum- up front where three Callaway mer school and correspon- starters return. Canton dence classes to complete Cory Cannon and Eric Lanier his work in time to join Rogers plan to carry the Neshoba Central Starkville High for camp. offense on their backs. Provine Cannon said talking Ridgeland Their mind-set is simple: If with coach Jamie Mitchell they create lanes and keep Starkville Yazoo City about his academic situa- quarterback Gabe Myles tion was “intense.” clean, everything else will start at right guard and left “It wasn’t nice at all,” he take care of itself. guard, respectively, this said, smiling. “But I knew “You’re never gonna season. Both started last what I had to do after that. know how young players season, and Rogers enters I knew how important I are going to react, and his third year as a two-way was to the team.” we’ve got a lot of them starter for the Yellow The offensive line, a around us,” Cannon said. Jackets. worry spot before Mitchell “But, at the same time, Entering his senior took over, has benefited they’re all good players. year, Rogers said he’s bet- from a simple approach. We’ll continue doing what ter prepared to deal with While the skill players we’re doing just like we did the fatigue that comes with must learn a dearth of last year.” playing both ways. He also Cannon and Rogers will has had to learn left guard See STARKVILLE, 24

Cory Cannon, left, and Eric Rogers are expected to play key roles for a Starkville High School football team that needs to replace several key losses. David Miller/Dispatch Staff

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 14 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com STARKVILLE ACADEMY VOLUNTEERS

CATCHOT, McKELL WANT TO HELP PUSH VOLS HIGHER

BY DAVID MILLER Inside Starkville Academy [email protected] “We’re going to see STARKVILLE — Ask 37 anyone who the two most vital players to Starkville I Number of players on some great lines, but Academy’s offense are and the Starkville Academy we’re bigger and they’ll quickly point to roster compared to 28 last Angus Catchot and Ryan year. stronger than we were McKell. The seniors — Catchot Position last year. We’ve just is a starter at right guard Breakdown and McKell is a do-it-all got to stay healthy.” athlete — don’t carry the burden of ending a two- QUARTERBACK season losing skid. They Drew Pellum, Starkville Academy are, however, responsible Ryan McKell. coach Jeff Terrill for making sure the I Pellum, a junior has Volunteers don’t fall off been named the starter after winning three of four and takes over for Kyle I The Volunteers welcome to end 2010 season. Henson. two transfers and are One glance at the duo “You’ll see Ryan in there, excited about their starting and it’s clear: They’re big- too, for a change of pace,” five. ger, stronger, and ready to Starkville Academy coach “Angus is our anchor and get Starkville Academy to Jeff Terrill said. “But is the best all-around the Mississippi Pellum will be critical in player on our line.” Association of our offense.” Independent Schools playoffs. RUNNING BACKS Starkville Academy Ryan Mann, John Michael Robinson, Colby Runnells, coach Jeff Terrill doesn’t See SA CHART, 24 hide the fact he must have James Mapp, Ryan McKell, his offense’s two best play- and Brandon Sharp. 2011 ers perform at a high level I Starkville Academy’s each week to alleviate any triple-option attack SCHEDULE growing pains first-year employees multiple running backs. starting quarterback Drew AUG. 19 ST. ANDREWS Pellum might have. “We like our speed to the Aug. 26 at Heritage “Both of those guys pro- perimeter this year. We’ve SEPT. 2 MAGNOLIA HEIGHTS vide so much to us,” Terrill also got more depth. Sept. 9 at Leake said. “They’re going to Those two together make Sept. 16 at Hillcrest a coach smile.” Sept. 23 at J. Prep have to play well and then SEPT. 30 COPIAH some.” OCT. 7 PARK LANE McKell will be the RECEIVERS Hunter Bolin, Oct. 14 at Winston Volunteers’ go-to threat in Starkville Academy will look to starting right guard Angus Catchot, left, and to do-it-all performer OCT. 21 ERA Jordan Bright. the running game, Ryan McKell to help the team build on a strong ending to the 2010 season. Oct. 28 at Pres. Chr. whether he’s at A-back or David Miller/Dispatch Staff I The passing offense was at quarterback. Terrill said sorely lacking last season, HOME GAMES IN CAPS McKell runs hard and is just be competitive, but and campus workouts. are.” but Terrill thinks the quick to the edge, which win — Ryan has to excel. “I played wing back and Catchot has experi- Volunteers will be able to MAIS makes him an ideal fit at A- He’s going to have to receiver last year, so really enced the same strength keep defenses honest this back. But like any talented show a little more maturi- I’m just having to learn gains as McKell, which year. CLASS AAA, DISTRICT 2 athlete — McKell is 6-foot- ty and composure in the one more position (quar- will be even more vital “We’re real excited about these two, especially 1, 200 pounds and has heat of battle, too.” terback),” said McKell, playing guard and defen- Copiah Academy good quickness — coach- McKell said learning who was clocked at 4.6 sive tackle. Catchot is Jordan, who has the height East Rankin Academy es want to get the most out and playing multiple posi- seconds in the 40-yard Starkville Academy’s best and strength and catches Hillcrest Christian the ball well. We think Starkville Academy of him, so expect to see tions can be tiring, but sprint this summer at lineman and most physi- Jackson Prep McKell all over the field after a summer of working Mississippi State. “But cally imposing. we’ll be able to stretch a defense.” Parkland Academy this season. with coach Bubba Davis in wherever I’m at, I’m going What sets him apart, Presbyterian Christian “He’s got the ability to the weight room he feels to feel even more confi- though, is his feet. play at the next level,” his body is prepared. He dent because of how much “His feet are much OFFENSIVE LINE NOTE: Jackson Prep, Parklane Terrill said. “When we got lauded Davis’ work in coach Davis pushed us in quicker than last year,” Cody Smith, Colin Stokes, Academy, and Presbyterian Christian Angus Catchot, are Division I. All regular-season the ball to Ryan last year, increasing the team the weight room. It’s night Terrill said. “He also uses games count toward determining the we scored points. For us to strength and speed and day around here as far Tripp Janessen, and Cole Phelps. teams that will advance to the take the next step — not through summer camps as how much stronger we See VOLUNTEERS, 24 Division I and Division II playoffs.

HAVE A When I say GRREATEAT SEASON! “good,” Make sure your Grandma and Grandpa have a safe and enjoyable Football Season by keeping these things in mind when they’re in the stands: you say • Many Elderly take medication that can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature “neighbor.” • Make sure they stay hydrated and carry an umbrella for extra shade Brian McCaskill, Agent • Keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion: a throbbing headache, 823 Highway 12 W Ste A Starkville, MS 39759 Now that's teamwork. dizziness, or nausea Bus: 662-323-5920 • For more information, or to learn how our trained staff can help your grand www.brianmccaskill.com Call me for your insurance parents safely attend your games, please give us a call or visit our website needs and see how it feels to h c t

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HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 15 EAST OKTIBBEHA TITANS

1-Bryton Conley, 2-Davalyn Bell, 2-Curtis Randle, 4-Terence Rice, 6-Jamal Halbert, 7-Kortland Petty, 8-Juwan Roberts, 10-John Outlaw, 14-Arthur Gillispie, 20-Nate Brown, 22-Jawon Brown, 24-Lanathan Brown, 32-Dion Clanton, 50-Jalen Peterson, 55-Jeremi Staples, 60-Jamarquiz Page, 62-Langston Spencer, 65-Justin Williams, 78-Jacorey Brown. Inside TITANS COMMITTED TO CHANGE East Oktibbeha

BY DAVID MILLER 2006 [email protected] I The last time East CRAWFORD — Oktibbeha beat rival West There’s renewed spirit Oktibbeha. The players are and dedication in the East motivated to break the Oktibbeha County High skid. football camp. Naturally, much of it Position can be attributed to the Breakdown leadership of the team’s seniors. For the Titans, QUARTERBACK defensive back Arthur Davalyn Bell, Kodi Petty Gillespie and do-it-all play- I Bell enters his first year er Kortland Petty are as a starter, replacing spearheading the move- two-year starter Chris ment to transform East Hunter. Oktibbeha. “Davalyn has speed and work ethic in the weight Both players have room,” East Oktibbeha started each of the past County High coach Randy three years and have won Brooks said. “He hasn’t Class 1A state track been challenged quite yet medals. in terms of a scrimmage, But success in football though.” has been limited to a pair of four-win seasons in the RUNNING BACK past three years. Gillespie Terrence Rice, Justin and Petty haven’t beaten Williams, and rival West Oktibbeha in Juwan Roberts. their high school careers. I In the Titans’ single-wing Things had to change offense, Rice, a fourth-year starter, will be the feature on the field, but more back. important the Titans “They’ve all worked hard in needed to commit to the the weight room this cause in the offseason and summer. We’ll be bigger, in the summer. faster and stronger there “No one wants what than last year.” happened last year,” Petty said. “These guys know RECEIVERS we’re better than 4-7, and Kodi Petty, Jamal Halbert. we’re finally starting to I Petty and Halbert will act like it.” play tight end in the Gillespie said player system and will be used to attendance to summer lift- block primarily. “They’re flex enough that ing sessions improved when we run spread they this year, and teammates can go out to receiver.” started to lift with the intent of becoming better OFFENSIVE LINE players. Jalen Peterson, “It’s been all of us get- Justin Williams, and ting bigger and stronger,” Jamarquiz Page. he said. “We’ve got good I Peterson, a guard, is the guys with good skill, but strongest person on the what we were able to do team and was an All- this summer is really District selection last year. going to show.” “Jalen’s going to have to do (Demonte) Horsley The weight room has (former two-way starter) also been a way for sen- type work this year.” iors to regulate detrimen- tal behavior or poor East Oktibbeha County High School’s Arthur Gillespie, left, and Kodi Petty will try to help the Titans beat West Oktibbeha for the first DEFENSIVE LINE effort. time since 2006 and help the team get back to the playoffs. David Miller/Dispatch Staff Jalen Peterson, “There’s no more Justin Williams, and horseplay,” Gillespie said. “It’s been all of us getting bigger and Community College and 2011 Jamarquiz Page. “This team is different got valuable on-field SCHEDULE I Like Peterson, the from the ones we’ve had stronger. We’ve got good guys with good skill, experience, Brooks said. Titans’ other top linemen in the past.” The time was also impor- play both ways. Gillespie is about 95 but what we were able to do this summer is tant in building relation- AUG. 19 LEAKE COUNTY “I expect Jalen to be percent recovered from ships and camaraderie. AUG. 26 MCADAMS double-teamed. If not, anterior cruciate ligament SEPT. 2 NORTH PONTOTOC they’ll just eat people really going to show.” “I’m feeling better and SEPT. 9 SEBASTOPOL alive.” surgery last fall. He said better about our depth Sept. 16 at Ethel the summer workouts East Oktibbeha County and this team because of SEPT. 23 WEST LOWNDES LINEBACKER were essential to prepar- how hard the kids Oct. 7 at Noxapater Lanathan Brown, ing him for the season. High School senior Arthur Gillespie worked this summer,” OCT. 14 PELAHATCHIE Jamarquiz Page. Though Gillespie is Oct. 21 at West Oktibbeha Brooks said. I Brown and Page will be near full fitness, Titans OCT. 28 NANIH WAIYA the tackling machines in a coach Randy Brooks To ensure the team- Nov. 4 at Weir 5-2 system. believes he’ll be twice as be very valuable.” one of those athletes who first message covers all “I also feel like we have good because of his Petty is likely to see is so flexible for us. He’s bases, Brooks is adamant HOME GAMES IN CAPS several others to play knowledge of the defense. time at receiver, defen- also improved his ability every player on the roster linebacker for us in other The three-time state sive back, and quarter- to let the game come to will play. He even hinted CLASS 1A combinations.” track champion is also the back. East Oktibbeha’s him. He doesn’t panic at the idea of making cuts REGION 3, DISTRICT 4 most athletic member of utility player will be vital. when something goes SECONDARY to make sure the team Arthur Gillespie, East Oktibbeha’s veteran- He led the Titans with wrong, which allows him won’t have “bench-warm- East Oktibbeha Juwan Roberts, led secondary. 434 receiving yards and to step up and be a better ers.” Ethel Jamal Halbert, and “He’s going to be five touchdowns last sea- playmaker for us.” “It’s like I told the boys Nanih Waiya Terence Rice. directing traffic more son. Still, he had just 15 This summer, East Noxpater in track, we won’t carry I Gillespie is the leader of there than he has in total touches last season. Oktibbeha skill players Pelahatchie the unit at free safety. recent years,” Brooks “We’re trying to get did something they rarely dead weight,” Brooks Sebastopol “Our best athletes are said of Gillespie. “He the ball into his hands as do: Go to a passing camp. said. “The ones I’m keep- Weir back there, so we’re going reads sets well and gets much as possible,” The Titans camped at ing will have a defined West Lowndes to be strong.” us lined up. He’s going to Brooks said. “He’s just East Mississippi role.” West Oktibbeha “We’re not carrying dead weight around here.”

East Oktibbeha County High School coach Randy Brooks

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 16 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com WEST OKTIBBEHA TIMBERWOLVES

Bishop Robinson, Dwight Quinn, Shun Fair, Drake Powell, Aaron Brownlee, Richard Richmond, Sharrod Stafford, Alex Chambers, Darrius Clark, Von Smith, Tiberias Lampkin, Donovan Henderson, Jonathan Love, Kelsey Jefferson, Johnny Chambers, Michael Graise, Lavontae Tate, DeShun Brown, Lamorris Cunningham, Ty Smith, Deontae Smith. Position BALANCED T’WOLVES TARGET PLAYOFFS Breakdown QUARTERBACK BY DAVID MILLER Von Smith [email protected] I The junior passed for 2,900 yards and 29 MABEN — Two years ago, Von Smith was the touchdowns last season. scrawny freshman with the “He’s a leader and student big arm. of the game,” West Thrust into a starting Oktibbeha County High role midway through the coach Adam Lowrey said. season, the West Oktibbeha County High “He knows when to do it.” School quarterback was at the center of a newly RUNNING BACK installed passing offense. Tiberias Lampkin, The diminutive Smith Shun Fair. struggled that year, toss- I The Timberwolves are ing twice as many interceptions than touchdowns. dedicated to balancing the The ups and downs Smith offense this season, which had, though, were exten- means more action for sions of the team’s rebuild- Lampkin and Fair. ing process under coach “Both of these guys have Adam Lowrey. great hands, are strong, Lowrey knew he had a special talent in Smith and and dedicated.” that it wouldn’t take long for his quarterback to light RECEIVERS up Class 1A. Dwight Quinn, Drake Smith wasted no time Powell, and Aaron living up to his coach’s Brownlee. presage his sophomore year, finishing with 2,910 I Quinn is the most passing yards and 29 experience and explosive touchdowns to just 10 of the group. interceptions. He complet- “People will have to double ed 57 percent of his passes Dwight every play, but and averaged 264 passing Drake is a great yards per game. “You have no idea how complement.” much better he’ll be this year,” Lowrey said. “When we went to five- about it? Plus, it gets that OFFENSIVE LINE 2011 CLASS 1A wide, coaches thought it many more guys involved.” Smith, though, is an Johnny Chambers, Sharrod REGION 3, DISTRICT 4 was crazy,” Lowrey said. The Timberwolves went anomaly, as most 1A pro- SCHEDULE Stafford, Donovan grams have traditional or “We commit to throwing 6-5 and narrowly missed a East Oktibbeha Henderson, and Alex option rushing attacks as Aug. 19 at Univ. Christian to all five, too. It put so playoff spot last year. For Ethel AUG. 26 MONTGOMERY CO. much strain on the Lowrey, it’s the first time he Chambers. their base offense. Nanih Waiya SEPT. 8 EUPORA defense that mid-season has started preseason with- Two juniors and two Passing offenses often Noxapater I Sept. 16 at Nanih Waiya last year, people didn’t out having to make whole- take more time to perfect Pelahatchie seniors make up the group. SEPT. 23 WEIR because of the timing Sebastopol blitz us. Now imagine how sale changes. Sept. 30 at Sebastopol “I look for a lot out of Weir defenses will have to play He expects Smith and needed between a quarter- OCT. 7 ETHEL Donovan, who is quick off West Lowndes us if we can run the ball.” the offense to take the back and receivers. Then, Oct. 14 at West Lowndes West Oktibbeha Though Smith may next step and to operate at the ball and dependable.” a team has to have a quar- OCT. 21 EAST OKTIBBEHA terback who not only can Oct. 28 at Noxapater have less opportunity to a quicker tempo and to throw, but who also can do Nov. 4 at Pelahatchie year, Smith returns with sling the ball around the eliminate penalties. DEFENSIVE LINE it accurately. the standout receivers field, he’s excited about the “To walk into a season Johnny Chambers, Sharrod For Class 1A teams that HOME GAMES IN CAPS Dwight Quinn and Drake idea of running more knowing we’re polishing is Stafford, Donovan Powell. But there’s a twist because of how lethal the a great feeling,” he said. often have less than 30 Henderson, and Alex players on the roster, stick- don’t practice it, but some to how potent the offense team will be. As the quar- “We’ve actually trimmed Chambers. ing with a run-based sys- teams don’t have the tools will be: The running game. terback, he’s involved with back the plays, running tem typically yields higher we have,” Smith said. “We Confident teams will still read and zone option plays. less to be more efficient. I Like most of the roster, gains. have great receivers, and I struggle to prepare for West “Coach says we’re Last year, our emphasis West Oktibbeha’s linemen That’s to Smith and the go through my reads Oktibbeha’s passing attack, gonna be 50-50,” Smith was speed and how quick will play both ways. Timberwolves’ advantage quick. This year, we want Lowrey believes the team said. “I’m still gonna get my we can run the next play. “Sharrod is a big, strong to have our offense can take a greater step — As soon as the ball is because most teams can’t touches; I’m involved in player who’ll really help simulate what they do in majored-out. We want to making a playoff run — if about 20 percent of the down, we’re running the this group.” practice. run it almost to perfection.” teams have to respect the runs, so you know, how play this year. That’s what “Not only the fact they Now entering his junior run and the pass. could you not be excited we’re aiming for.” LINEBACKER Tiberias Lampkin, Shun Fair, and Bishop Robinson. I Fair and Robinson are experienced seniors. “This group is strong and everyone loves contact.”

SECONDARY Von Smith, Dwight Quinn, Drake Powell, and Jonathon Love. I The defensive backs are experienced at running Cover 2. “Some of our best athletes are back there. They’ll be just as productive as they are on offense.” HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 17 HEBRON CHRISTIAN EAGLES

1- Collin Moore, 2-Cameron Smith, 3-Marquez Robinson, 7-David Kinard, 11-Will-Corben Rogers, 15-Cody Tatum, 17-Taylor Coggins, 28-Ben Pearson, 50-Taylor Turman, 52-Harley Thompson, 56-Jacob Ware, 65-Troy Arnold, 87-Ryan Moore. Inside Hebron Christian LOW NUMBERS, HIGH WORK RATE 3 30 I Newcomers this season I Most points scored last Eagles will rely on eight seniors in last minute move from 11-man to eight-man schedule for Hebron Christian: season by Hebron BY GARY ESTWICK Hartley Thompson, Ben Christian (in a 38-30 loss [email protected] Pearson, and David Kinard to Calhoun Academy on — all seniors. Oct. 22). PHEBA — Seniors Ben Pearson and Harley Position Breakdown Thompson, both new to the Hebron Christian foot- QUARTERBACK “They’ve got some Corbin Rogers, potential,” Hebron Christian ball team, took distinctive defensive coordinator David paths to their new locker Taylor Coggins. I The Eagles are hoping Foster said. “They just need room. smart play at quarterback to reach it. We’ve got low Three years ago, helps them ease back numbers, so we’re playing Pearson was a 5-foot-4, into eight-man football. both ways, so we have to beat people by being in 120-pound freshman at Corbin Rogers is entering shape.” Oak Hill Academy. He his first season as a played quarterback on the starter at the position. LINEBACKERS junior varsity team and “(Corbin) is an athlete. Harley Thompson, was a member of the spe- Throw, run, catch. He fits Taylor Coggins, and cial teams unit on the var- in just right,” Hebron Ryan Moore sity squad. Christian coach Tri Nason I Coggins and Moore will “I was getting said. “A lot of what we’re adjust to the eight-man game, while Thompson, smashed,” he said. “I was going to do — shotgun, running options — that fits who hasn’t played football like, ‘This is not for me.’ into what he can do. And since the eighth grade, will That just really made me of course, he can make re-adjust to playing hate the game so much.” the passes.” football, which includes So he quit. starting on offense and At Hebron Christian, defense. Hebron Christian seniors Ben Pearson, left, and Harley Thompson will get a chance to contribute to RUNNING BACK “Both of those guys Thompson wanted to play coach Tri Nason’s first season as head coach at the school. Contributed Taylor Coggins, Cody (Thompson and Coggins) varsity football, but wasn’t Tatum, Marquez Robinson, are capable of being hard allowed. His parents didn’t Fast Fact Sophomore Troy and Cody Tatum. hitters,” Foster said. want him to get hurt. After 2011 Arnold, new to the varsity I The rushing game is one “They’re quick to get to of the team’s strengths, the ball. Both of those his eighth-grade year, he Hebron Christian made a squad, is an example. SCHEDULE I led by some of Hebron guys want to hit was forced to hang up his quick switch from 11-man “He’s just real aggressive, cleats. he likes to punish his Christian’s most dedicated somebody. They’re going to eight-man football, to seek somebody to hit “It was hard because Aug. 19 at Strider Academy opponents, whether it’s at players. adjusting its schedule of “Marquez is your quick, on every play.” everybody else wanted Aug. 26 Open practice or at games,” Sept. 2 at Calvary Christian opponents in late July and slashing running back. me to play,” Thompson Nason said. “He likes to DEFENSIVE BACKS SEPT. 9 CLINTON CHRISTIAN their offensive and Taylor, he’s just a hard said. “It was rough. I want- deliver the big hit.” Marquez Robinson, Sept. 16 Open defensive philosophies. runner, whether he’s ed to be out there.” Then there’s the two Ryan Moore, Sept. 23 at Park Place Christian getting around the corner Entering their senior senior newcomers. Corbin Rogers, and Sept. 30 at Kemper Academy or he’s going to run over David Kinard seasons, the roadblocks man football this season. Pearson said he doesn’t OCT. 7 FLINT HILL CHRISTIAN somebody. Cody, he’s the I Foster will stress the have disappeared just in OCT. 14 CALHOUN ACADEMY On offense, Hebron miss being under center. big boy. He’s the pounder.” importance of making time to help the Eagles Christian will run a spread “It’s pretty cool,” said tackles, as well as rebound from a 1-9 record formation and try to con- Pearson, said of playing RECEIVERS defending the pass. You fuse defenses. Nason David Kinard, Marques never want to miss tackles in 2010. HOME GAMES IN CAPS center. He sat out of Pearson is now 5-10, described Corbin, his sports after transferring Robinson, Ryan Moore, in 11-man football, but in more than years of experi- quarterback, as an athlete. and Taylor Coggins. eight-man, the 181 pounds and enjoying midway through his soph- consequences can be his new-found girth on the ence. He can run, he can throw omore season. I The Eagles need this group to produce. The worse. “We don’t have a lot of and, more importantly, offensive line. It should “There’s a lot more you more of a threat they are, “I’m expecting them to allow him to protect quar- guys, but the guys that are he’s smart with the foot- have to do, being a center the better off the running play physical,” Foster said. terback Will Corbin and to here are here to work ball. Last season, he was than just being on the game will be. “Most of these guys that we have back there are open holes for running hard, give me what the varsity backup and team. It’s a lot of responsi- “David, he’s a tall lanky backs Marquez Robinson, they’ve got, and try not to started at receiver. bly. You and the quarter- capable of putting big hits kid (6 feet). He can run on people.” Taylor Coggins, and Cody make any excuses. I like Nason believes Corbin back have to have that real good. Ryan, Tatum. that,” said Nason, a gradu- will have a greater impact connection, and me and he can catch anything SPECIAL TEAMS “Never imagined being ate of Starkville Academy at quarterback because he Corbin do.” thrown to him. If he can KICKER one of the bigger people and a former football play- can makes plays and touch Thompson, who is 6-1, touch it, he’s going to Cody Tatum on the team,” he said. er at Mississippi State the ball on every play. It 235 pounds, will play right catch it. We need this PUNTER And Thompson finally under Sylvester Croom. probably helps Corbin is guard and on the defen- group to produce in order Corbin Rogers got permission to play “If we build off of that good friends with Pearson, sive line. Unlike Pearson, to keep the offense balanced.” ASSISTANT COACHES from his parents. mentality, once we can his new center. he hasn’t played any other David Foster learn how to win, we’ll be The Eagles were shut How’d he do it? high school sports. OFFENSIVE LINE (Defensive coordinator), “I really don’t know,” doing a whole lot better.” out three times last season Returning to football has Troy Arnold, Jacob Ware, Hearne Foster (Offensive/defensive line) Thompson said. “They So far, it has worked. and scored 20 or more proved to be physically Ben Pearson, Jacob Ware, said, ‘Yes’, so I didn’t ask Attendance was high for points just four times. challenging, but mentally, Harley Thompson, and them any questions.” voluntary workouts this Their lone win was a 20-15 he said he never left the Jacob Ware. “We don’t have a lot of Both players — two of summer, with Thompson, victory Sept. 3 at West field, dating back to his I Even though the group eight seniors on the team Coggins, Robinson, and Memphis Christian. eighth-grade team. has two seniors, it’s one of guys, but the guys that — are a part of the foun- Tatum leading the way. On defense, Hebron “It would be great if I the most inexperienced dation first-year coach Nason hopes success Christian will utilize a could set that example and positions on the team. But are here are here to Gerald “Tri” Nason is this season will lead to defense that plays to its that’s what starts it off,” if they figure things out, it trying to build. Yes, increased participation. strength. The unit, Thompson said of starting could transform into an work hard, give me they’re new to the team, The roster size this season coached by David Foster, a winning tradition. “It offensive strength. “With the size they have, but leadership is about forced Hebron Christian has more linebackers than would be great to get that they’re going to be plenty what they’ve got, and to move from 11- to eight- effort and motivation linemen. accomplished.” big to handle the defenses they’ll be playing try not to make against.” excuses. If we build off DEFENSIVE LINE Cody Tatum, Troy Arnold, of that mentality, once Ben Pearson, and Jacob Ware. we can learn how to I Defensive coordinator David Foster would love to win, we’ll be doing a add another one or two capable players to the whole lot better.” rotation, helping the Eagles keep fresh legs in the game, especial- Hebron Christian coach ly on passing downs. Tri Nason

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 18 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com WEST POINT GREEN WAVE

1-Chaddrick Chandler, 2-Stephen Burnett, 3-Ladarius Patterson, 4-Dvanta Randle, 5-Josh Anderson, 6-Tarrence Orr, 7-Jayson Burnett, 8-Nelson Mcintosh, 9-William Harrell, 10-Anthony Johnson, 12-Lagaris Wordlaw, 13-Diquan Wheeler, 14-Eric Lemus, 15-Dequinten Spraggins, 16-Reshard Deanes, 17-Rashad Jones, 18-Bruce Barclay, 19-Davion Bradshaw, 20-Mario Virges, 21-Jonathan Patterson, 22-Aeris Williams, 23-Leroy Calvert, 24-Roger Thomas, 25-Makarios Sears, 26-Antreon Bennett, 27-TJ Minor, 28-Tez Lane, 29-Stephon Ivy, 30-Charles Heard, 31-Steve Vance, 32-Brandon Edwards, 3-Roger Price, 34-Eric Johnson, 35-Jerry Randle, 36-Tyler Witherspoon, 38-Anias Walker, 39-R.J. Tallie, 40-Eddious Webb, 42-Kris Pernell, 43-Bradley Ewing, 44-Freddie Reed, 46-Nathaniel Johnson, 50-Romia Wilson, 51-Chris Williams, 53-Demondtae Donald, 55-Deion Shelton, 56-Ed Brown, 57-Antonio Dent, 59-Travonte Chandler, 61-Ronald Matthews, 62-Carson Miller, 63-Leandrew Hampton, 65-Chris "Swag" Fuller, 66-Tyler Jefferson, 68-Willie Owens, 70-Lyndon Johnson, 71-Thomas Tiffin, 72-Riley Morton, 73-Fredricus Mickens, 74-Alex Hall, 75-Nadarrius Eckers, 76-Jonathan Jones, 77-Martavius Jefferson, 78-Jordan DIFFERENTJohnson, 80-Woodrow Price, 81-Roderick Box, 90-LederriusLOOK Gallion. ALL AROUND FOR GREEN WAVE

BY DAVID MILLER Inside [email protected] West Point WEST POINT — DeQuinten Spraggins has- n’t been a headliner for 4 the West Point High I The number of returning School football team. starters on the offensive He has spent much of line. The team has only his career as a defensive seven returning starters. back on back-to-back state championship teams. He “It is what it is. We also backed up his cousin, Justin Cox, at quarterback always want to play a and rarely took snaps there in games. tough non-district But as the unquestioned starting quarter- schedule. We’re never back of the 2011 Green Wave, he finally will get gonna take a back his chance to ball out with seat because no one’s the keys to the car. Spraggins will go to expecting us to be work with nearly all of the Green Wave’s offensive like we have been.” linemen from last season’s Class 5A title squad, including senior class- West Point High School mates Alex Hall, Jonathon coach Chris Chambless Jones, and Romia Wilson. He’s anxious and excit- The West Point High School football team will go with a running back by committee approach after losing its top two rushers from last 2011 ed to anchor the state’s season. From left: Mario Virges, Tez Lane, Aeris Williams, quarterback DeQuinten Spraggins, Roger Thomas, Makarios Sears, Kris SCHEDULE top 5A team. Pernell, and Fredricus Mickens. Luisa Porter/Dispatch Staff West Point coaches, “It’s just my time. I knew I was gonna have to Having a quarterback The big thing is he knows AUG. 20 SOUTH PANOLA though, hope he finds his “locked in” for an entire he won’t have to tote it Aug. 26 Open balance between playing play sooner or later. I’ve been second string game can be challenging every play because of the Sept. 2 at Columbus loose and playing out of because of the Green talent he has around him. SEPT. 9 STARKVILLE Wave’s style of play. But there’s always a Sept. 16 at Noxubee control. since my sophomore year.” Sept. 23 at Lake Cormorant “The inexperience Whether it’s second-and-1 chance he might have to. SEPT. 30 HERNANDO won’t be the key,” West or third-and-17, West He’s got the confidence to Oct. 7 at Clarksdale Point coach Chris West Point High School Point uses its running do it.” OCT. 14 SALTILLO Chambless said, “but at quarterback DeQuinten Spraggins game to impose its will on Through the spring Oct. 21 at Center Hill the quarterback spot, the opponents. Last year, that and summer, Spraggins, Oct. 28 at Oxford NOV. 4 NEW HOPE game management, he’s bruising strategy pro- who had six interceptions gonna have to do a good on-target pass on what College. duced a pair of 1,000-yard last year, has accelerated HOME GAMES IN CAPS job of that. We already could always be West With the level-headed rushers last season. through offensive coordi- know what kind of an ath- Point’s only pass of the demeanor his coaches To Chambless, nator Lee Grisham’s pres- CLASS 5A lete and person he is.” game. want from him, Spraggins Spraggins must have an sure-packed scenarios. Spraggins played quar- To boot, his predeces- smiles when reminded of unquestioned command Spraggins works through REGION 1, DISTRICT 2 terback in junior high, but sor was a standout who the enormity of his transi- of the huddle to run the no-huddle situations and led West Point to state tion. offense the way the coach- unfavorable down-and-dis- Center Hill he hasn’t taken the Clarksdale knocks from running the titles in 2009 and ’10 as “It’s just my time,” es want. tances with little time on Hernando rock through a Class 5A quarterback and earned a Spraggins said. “I knew I “He’s got a lot of poten- the clock. Nearly every Lake Cormorant season. He hasn’t had to scholarship to play foot- was gonna have to play tial to be able to do that,” minute of his practice time New Hope move an offense in crunch ball at Mississippi State sooner or later. I’ve been Chambless said. “He han- is spent with Grisham in Oxford time of a playoff game. He and is now at East second string since my dled the spring real well Saltillo hasn’t had to deliver an Mississippi Community sophomore year.” and he’s very humble. See WEST POINT, 24 West Point Position Breakdown

QUARTERBACK DEFENSIVE LINE DeQuinten Spraggins, Jayson Burnett, Ladarius Gallion, Ed Brown, Freddie Reed, and JA Wyatt. and Josh Anderson. Go Green Wave I Spraggins backed up Justin Cox each I Reed, a junior, is the only starting of the last two years and enters 2011 as defensive lineman back from 2010. the unquestioned starter. Good Luck and have “He’s just got to improve his game “There’s some inexperience there, but management, and that all comes with they’ve got the potential to do good work experience,” West Point coach Chris for us.” a ggreatreat sseason!eason! Chambless said. LINEBACKER RUNNING BACK Brandon Edwards, Tez Lane, Aries Williams, and Trey Bennett. Mario Virges. I Edwards is one of just two returning I The Green Wave lose their top two starters on defense. rushers from last season, but Chambless doesn’t think there will be a dropoff. “Now is the time for Brandon to be in a leadership role.” NOW “We’ve got good depth and some guys OPEN who’ll run hard. They got to be tough to play running back here.” SECONDARY Anthony Johnson, RECEIVERS Rashad Jones, Nelson McIntosh, and Will Harrell, Jerry Randle. COMING Jonathan Patterson. SOON I The Green Wave don’t pass much, but I With Spraggins’ move to quarterback, when they do it’s usually a big gain. the secondary is completely rebuilt. Now acepting donations! “Harrell is our returning starter and should have a great senior year.” “They’re athletic but inexperienced. Now A one stop shop for Quality they get the chance to step up and make Large item pick-up available. a name for themselves. Antiques & Gifts, Used Books, OFFENSIVE LINE Opening Sept. 12th Jonathan Jones, Romia Wilson, Alex Hall, and so much more... and TJ Minor. 950 Hwy 45 Alt.South 407 W Main St I More players return to the offensive West Point, MS West Point, MS line than at any position. “Six of the eight guys who played are back, too. This is, without a doubt, the strength of our team.”

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 19 OAK HILL ACADEMY RAIDERS

Position Breakdown RAIDERS WANT TO GET PHYSICAL QUARTERBACK DEFENSIVE LINE Conner Baird, Jeb Stevens, Bradley Allen, and Clay Henley. Jacob Dickens, Rusty Tait, New coach Merchant wants aggressive approach to take hold to help team change fortunes I Despite three players at Cooper Orman, Josh Guest, the position entering the Preston Hall, BY GARY ESTWICK season, it’s a question “There won’t be much “We’ve got to hit,” he Joseph Caskey, [email protected] 2011 said. “We’ve got to do mark for the season. “The group lacks John Robert Wilbourne, SCHEDULE holding back at more of that this year. I Cole Knowles, WEST POINT — If left think they’re lacking more experience, so a strong up to Reid Posey, the Oak start to the season is Bryan McCellan, AUG. 19 NEWTON practice. We’ve got to on that than anything.” vital.” Palmer White, and Hill Academy senior will So far, so good for the retain the positives from Aug. 26 at Winston Max Abner. Sept. 2 at Indianola hit. We’ve got to do Raiders. The players have RUNNING BACKS Depth, again, is an last season’s 3-8 campaign I SEPT. 9 MANCHESTER responded to Merchant’s Reid Posey, Chad Moore, issue. and disregard the regret- Sept. 16 at Winona more of that this workout challenges, a Rusty Tait, Jeb Stevens, “The more guys that can table moments. Sept. 23 at Canton mix of fundamentals and and Chance Livingston. find a role in the rotation, Posey is proud of the One of the deepest units SEPT. 30 LEAKE year. I think they’re fun. If players appear to I the easier it is for the on the team, it is also led way the 2010 Raiders OCT. 7 HERITAGE be dragging through defense.” Oct. 14 Open by great senior leadership played as hard as they lacking more on that drills, he will quickly could. Sometimes their Oct. 21 at Kirk “Chad is a (former) OCT. 28 IMMANUEL change things. The lineman last year who LINEBACKERS roster size was dwarfed by than anything.” Raiders might complete changed his body. He’s Chad Moore, Reid Posey, the opponents’ depth an offense-versus-defense made big strides with that. Rusty Tait, Dale Milican, chart. Other times they HOME GAMES IN CAPS bench press challenge, or He’s now going to be one Chance Livingston, and were physically smaller. Oak Hill Academy coach the coaching might could of our fullbacks and Paxton Trull. “But I felt like the effort Benjie Merchant linebackers.” MAIS challenge a letterman to I The same as at running we put out every game complete a task and back, leadership will be was our best,” he said. “I CLASS AA, DISTRICT 2AA Winston. RECEIVERS watch his teammates sup- key at this position think that’s going to carry “It made me realize Curt Huffman, Canton Academy port him. They also might Bradley Allen, Steve “(Reid) he’s the perfect over to this year.” Immanuel Christian how much I like playing try a player-versus-coach Dragoo, Paxton Trull, coach’s the kid you like to Then there’s the set- Leake Academy football,” said Wilbourne, Manchester Academy liftoff. Jacob Dickens, coach, he doesn’t every- backs — the mental mis- who plays right tackle and Oak Hill Academy It’s moments like this Clay Henley, Jeb Stevens, thing you ask of him.” takes and turnovers. On Winston Academy defensive end. “It was Bradley Allen, that will help Merchant defense, the Raiders’ weird being over there Jacob Dickens, and judge the success of this SECONDARY inability to force a Oak Hill Academy trained and not being able to play. Paxton Trull. Curt Huffman, fall. turnovers coupled with 17-14 at halftime. The Practice every day for so One of the younger units Jeb Stevens, “I think I’m going to on the team. missed assignments and Raiders fumbled inside many days, all through the Steve Dragoo, summer, you kind of start gauge it by how we look as “The receivers, though, are tackles and too many big the Manchester Academy full of ability and will work Paxton Trull, plays allowed proved to be 10 and in the end zone, to get tired of it until a team, how we handle Jacob Dickens, ourselves when we lose — to create balance with the a crippling mix. giving up a safety. something like that hap- offense.” Merchant also Conner Baird, and Oak Hill Academy’s “Had we won, it would pens then you realize how or win,” Merchant said. expects a lot of growth Clay Henley. lack of physicality also have put us in the playoffs, much you like playing it. It The offense will trans- from tight ends Allen and I Part of the responsibility prevented it from reach- but it ended up being the made this year a lot more form from a pro-style of I Dickens. of better tackling will fall ing the postseason for a other way around,” said fun.” formation. Quarterback upon this group of young second year in a row. It’s a Posey, who is looking for- Because the Raiders Conner Baird, a junior, OFFENSIVE LINEMAN players, the defense’s last still have a lot to learn, will lead it. His top receiv- John Robert Wilbourne, line of defense. problem that can’t be fully ward to the rematch on Max Abner, Cooper Orman, solved in the weight room. Sept. 9. “That was one first-year coach Benjie ing options include Curt “This is a young group Huffman, Bradley Allen, Josh Guest, Preston Hall, “At the end of the day, game where mental mis- Merchant will try to find Joseph Caskey, with a lot of ability.” are you going to make the takes killed us. We turned the right balance between and Steve Dragoo — all Cole Knowles, big hit or not, or are you the ball over numerous keeping his small roster sophomores. Bryan McClellan, and KICKERS going to be scared of it?” times. I don’t even remem- healthy while teaching the Chad Moore is a line- Palmer White. Reid Posey, Chance said Posey, a running ber how many. That was fundamentals of the game man turned running back. I Another position where Livingston. Oak Hill wants to back/linebacker/kick- the game walking away we at practice in preparation He spent this offseason for Friday nights. reshaping his body into its transform a long list of Assistants: Bradley er/punter who also plays knew we should have potential playmakers into on special teams. won.” “There won’t be much 6-foot, 175-pound frame. Simmons (defensive coor- players expected to dinator/wide receivers), Manchester 32, Oak While the Raiders holding back at practice,” “It’s been different,” perform on weekly basis. Hill 20. struggled, J.R. Wilbourne said Merchant, a second- Moore said. “I think we’re “Starters make this a solid Carl Middleton (Offensive line/defensive line), Chris The Oct. 8, 2010, loss was on the sideline. He generation coach. He going to do better. It’s a group, but depth is an Craven (Running served as the biggest tore the medial collateral spent part of the offseason different atmosphere. issue if injuries become a backs/defensive backs) example of what mistakes ligament in his left knee studying film from last Been fun, more ener- factor.” can lead to. Despite and missed five games. He season’s games. The getic.” Manchester enduring didn’t return until the sea- defense will move from a It all starts Friday About Our Prep Coverage three first-half turnovers, son finale against 3-5 to a 5-3 or 5-2. against Newton Academy. From Special Reports If the result of a game isn’t in The Dispatch, please Listing of Local Teams’ Classifications All fall sports coaches work with us to encourage are reminded to report that coach to contact us so their game results to The we can provide the best pos- Class 1A Class 5A Class AA Dispatch. sible coverage to this area. Region 3, District 4 Region 1, District 2 District 2AA Coaches, scorekeepers, If you have any ques- Center Hill Canton Academy East Oktibbeha parents and/or players can tions, call 662-327-1297. Ethel Clarksdale Immanuel Christian Hernando call 662-327-1297, 662-241- Nanih Waiya Leake Academy Lake Cormorant 5000 (toll free in Noxpater Manchester Academy Prep Football Results New Hope Oak Hill Academy Pelahatchie Mississippi), or e-mail infor- High school football Oxford Winston Academy Sebastopol Saltillo mation to sports@cdis- coaches who don’t speak to patch.com or Weir West Point Class AAA a reporter from The West Lowndes District 1AAA, Division II [email protected]. Dispatch are asked to call West Oktibbeha Region 2, District 6 Heritage Academy Please give us the final the sports department Callaway Lee Academy Canton score, where the game was Friday night with informa- Class 2A Magnolia Heights Lanier played, the team records, tion from their games. Region 2, District 4 Washington School Neshoba Central Jackson Academy leading performers, the This is the first season Ackerman Provine Madison-Ridgeland Academy team’s next game and any East Webster Ridgeland we will work with a Pillow Academy Eupora Starkville other notable information. Saturday edition. Our dead- Hamilton Yazoo City Since The Dispatch is an NOTE: Jackson Academy, MRA, and line for reporting scores is J.Z. George Pillow Academy are Division I. All afternoon paper, we will try midnight. We will try to get Class 6A Williams-Sullivan regular-season games count toward the next morning to track Region 1, District 2 in touch with as many foot- Columbus determining the teams that will advance results of all games not ball coaches as possible, so Class 3A DeSoto Central to the Division I and Division II playoffs. called in to the newspaper. Region 2, District 1 try to call us with a report Grenada We will try to call at a rea- from your game before Aberdeen Horn Lake District 2AAA Mantachie Olive Branch Copiah Academy sonable hour and don’t then. Mooreville Southaven East Rankin Academy mean to disrupt any coach, Nettleton South Panola Hillcrest Christian teacher or professional at Prep Player of Week Starkville Academy South Pontotoc Tupelo work, but our goal is to rec- Every Tuesday, The Water Valley Jackson Prep MAIS Parkland Academy ognize the performances of Dispatch will recognize a Presbyterian Christian as many student-athletes as Class 4A Eight-Man / North - District 1 standout prep performer. Calhoun Academy Region 4, District 4 possible. If you would like to nom- Calvary Christian School NOTE: Jackson Prep, Parklane If you are a coach, Caledonia Central Academy Academy, and Presbyterian Chr. are inate a prep player of the Houston Delta Academy Division I. All regular-season games scorekeeper or parent who week, call us at 662-327- Kosciusko Kemper Academy count toward determining the teams that reports information to us, 1297, 662-241-5000 or 1-888- Leake Central North Sunflower Academy will advance to the Division I and please give us the best time 477-1555 or e-mail us at Russell Christian Louisville Division II playoffs. and the best number to [email protected] Noxubee County Veritas School reach you. before 5 p.m. Saturday.

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 20 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com NOXUBEE COUNTY TIGERS

1-Kamal Chamberlain, 2-Fernando Phillips, 3-Nathaniel Peterson 4-Jared Johnson, 5-Eric Hunt, 6-Antravion Jamison, 7-Ladarrell Hunt, 8-Jarvis Taylor, 9-Charles Hughes, 11-Jessie Bryant, 12-Robert Neal, 13-Anthony Skinner, 14-Lemadric Macon, 15-Alan Clay, 16-Shaquille Taylor, 17-Terrence Barron, 18-Deangelo Ballard, 19-Jacoby Jones, 20-Rodrick Joiner, 23-Davion Pruitt, 24-Javoris Glenn, 26-Dennis Brooks, 27-Devonte Sanders, 28-Darrell Robinson, 29-Javancy Jones, 30-Malik Sanders, 31-Dequalo Martin, 32-Vernon Scott, 33-Jeremy Hunt, 34-Trevond Miles, 37-Douglass Triplett, 40-Antonio Ryland, 52-Traon Young, 54-Martize Mitchell, 55-Byron Hill, 56-Taiwan Williams, 57-Melvin Lewis, 60-Tamarcus Williams, 61-Ivan Goodwin, 67-Justin Clemmon, 69-Jercovie Stewart, 71-Jonathan Orr, 74-Jared Farmer, 75-Demarcus Wilborn, 77-Deshawn Hopkins, 78-Ryald Mitchell, 79-Bryce Turner, 81-Miles Ellis, 84-Braxton William, 90-Ralph Franklin, 91-Jose Moran, 92-Antonio Boyd, 94-Dylan Bradley, 95- TIGERSMichael Brown, 97-Edrion Rice, 99-Raheem WILL Stewart HAVE CHOICE OF WEAPONS Improved Ballard 2011 wants to lead team SCHEDULE AUG. 19 STARKVILLE back to Jackson Aug. 27 at Spain Park (B’ham, AL) Sept. 2 at New Hope BY ADAM MINICHINO SEPT. 9 ABERDEEN [email protected] SEPT. 16 WEST POINT Sept. 23 at Kemper Co. MACON — A trip to Sept. 30 at Kosciusko the North State title game OCT. 7 CARTHAGE isn’t enough for Deangelo Oct. 14 at Houston Ballard. OCT. 20 LOUISVILLE OCT. 28 CALEDONIA One season after helping lead the Noxubee County High School foot- HOME GAMES IN CAPS ball team one step short of Jackson, the site of the state’s six championships, CLASS 4A Ballard knows nothing REGION 4, DISTRICT 4 less will do in 2011. As the Tigers’ quarter- Caledonia back, he is accustomed to Houston Kosciusko that kind of responsibility. Leake Central After all, he watched play- Louisville ers like Omarr Conner Noxubee County and Termarcus Conner conduct symphonies of speed, quickness, and pre- cision on the football field. He soaked it in when Termarcus Conner leaned on Patrick Patterson and helped Noxubee County The Noxubee County High School football team has a deep and talented cast of skill players from which quarterback Deangelo Ballard, not playing football, beat D’Iberville for the back row, far right, can go to at any time. Included in the mix are: front row, from left: Charles Hughes, Lemadric Macon, Terrence Ballard won’t give himself 2008 Mississippi High Barron, and Darrell Robinson. Kelly Tippett/Dispatch Staff the benefit of the doubt. School Activities “I am expecting myself receivers I can trust. This year, though, the Association Class 4A state “We have better receivers this year and a and I am expected to do There isn’t a receiver you defense might want to call title, the school’s first. better,” Ballard said. just want to focus on. I am in the reinforcements. If Ballard, a junior, has better running game. We have more running Shorter also has talked comfortable with whoever “It is unbelievable the anything to say about it, with Ballard and made it the quarterback throws talent we have,” Shorter Noxubee County will have backs and a lot of speed.” clear to him his perform- the ball to. These kids said. “We’re excited about another championship tro- ance could be the differ- worked hard all summer our offense. We think our phy to keep that one com- ence in helping the Tigers at 7-on-7s and got better, Noxubee County High School offense is going to be pany in four months. to get back to Jackson. so they gained my trust.” junior running back Darrell Robinson much more explosive this “I know everybody is “Ballard has got to go. Led by Ballard, year. The speed of our looking to me to take the I put a lot of pressure on team to Jackson,” Ballard Noxubee County will be yards last season. “We name is “Tuttie”, attrib- team is unbelievable. able to rely on running have more running backs utes his maturation to the They are a bunch of kids him, which I probably said. “I am ready for that.” shouldn’t have, but I told Ballard’s ability to navi- backs Ladarrell Hunt and and a lot of speed. We work he did in the offsea- you enjoy coming to work Darrell Robinson and added Charles to the son. The Tigers attended and coaching every day. him, ‘If we go to Jackson gate a bumpy road that (the site of the six state likely will include a game wide receivers Terrence group to make it a better 7-on-7 camps at “This group wants it. Barron, Kamal receiving group.” Mississippi State and at We had a great turnout all title games) it is going to against defending Class be because of you.’ I 4A state champion Chamberlain, Fernando Robinson said a key Ole Miss. Ballard also summer. The kids came Phillips, and Starkville could be the improvement went to combines in and worked out hard. watched all six of the Lafayette will be made state championship easier by an assortment of High transfer Charles of Ballard, who he said Jackson and in Memphis, They were so close last Hughes. more accurate. Tenn., to work on his year and we have so many games and the quarter- weapons that rivals some back was the best player of the most talented teams That group evokes Barron, a senior, is the skills. He feels more com- kids coming back, and memories of the team’s go-to receiver. He fortable under center and they really want it. They on the field,” Shorter in the history of Noxubee said. “I am trying to get County High. Patterson-led cast of saw plenty of double- is ready to show he can have been working since receivers that won a state teams last season, and manage a game and keep that North State champi- him to be that leader, to “This team reminds me put the offense on his of the team that we had title. But while Patterson, believes he will see even so many weapons happy. onship game.” shoulders or on his back. with all of the talent with who went on to sign with more this season. He, too, “Sometimes it is diffi- A 20-0 loss was a smack He has the talent. He has Omarr Conner at quarter- the University of feels Ballard has cult,” Ballard said. “I just in the face for a Noxubee great speed, he is very back and Joey Sanders at Mississippi and to play at improved, which gives the try to spread the ball out County program that has smart. He is an Honor wide receiver and East Mississippi Tigers another card to so I am not just throwing built a reputation for hits student. He is what you Brandon Tate and Reggie Community College, out- play if defenses get into a to one person.” high-scoring ways. want in a quarterback. Smith,” Noxubee County shined members of both rhythm. You get the sense Ballard, who shared the We have watched him coach Tyrone Shorter groups, the depth of the “(Ballard) is throwing a Shorter wishes Noxubee quarterback role with mature as a player and as said. “We had all that tal- weapons on the 2011 little better because he County could play with Jared Johnson last season, a quarterback. I think he ent and all of that speed on squad just might get the has got a lot stronger,” multiple balls to keep its feels he did “all right” last is taking a little bit more offense. This group nod. Barron said. “He wants to skill players fresh. The season but is quick to of a leadership role. He reminds me of that team. “We have better run the ball, but we can’t Tigers get the added point out he “didn’t do the just needs to show his tal- We have the receivers, we receivers this year and a let him because we need bonus of having to prac- best he could have done” ent. If it is not there, he have the backs, we can better running game,” him bad. We need him tice daily against one of because he still was in the rotate four or five backs if said Robinson, a junior, bad.” the fiercest and quickest learning stages. has the ability to take off we want to. We have five who rushed for 1,200 Ballard, whose nick- defenses in the state. This year, with Johnson with it.”

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 21 CENTRAL ACADEMY VIKINGS

Central Academy senior quarterback Cole Newman catches a pass while doing agility drills Aug. 9 at the school. Newman is expected to lead the Vikings this season. Adam Minichino/Dispatch Staff VIKINGS WON’T BE AS BIG, BUT THEY STILL HAVE TALENT

BY ADAM MINICHINO 2011 [email protected] SCHEDULE MACON — Where’s the beef? Aug. 19 at Calvary It may be easy to dis- AUG. 26 CALHOUN miss the Central Academy Sept. 2 at Delta eight-man football team SEPT. 9 MARVELL now that the graduation Sept. 16 at Kemper losses of Will Sciple and SEPT. 23 VERITAS Matt Taylor have left the SEPT. 30 RUSSELL Vikings with a smaller Oct. 7 at N. Sunflower waistline. Oct. 14 at Franklin Sciple and Taylor OCT. 21 CALVARY tipped the scales at more than 300 pounds and were HOME GAMES IN CAPS anchors on an offensive line that dared opponents to get in front of it for fear MAIS of getting run down. Eight-man But don’t confuse a North District 1 slimmed down roster for one without talent. Calhoun Academy If you do, you run the Calvary Christian School Central Academy risk of getting bowled Delta Academy over by some of the Kemper Academy Vikings’ size that returns North Sunflower Academy Russell Christian for this season or left in Veritas School the wake of some of their team speed. “We have a big role to fill,” senior fullback/linebacker Drew Pearson Central Academy coach Ronnie Sciple talks with senior Drew Pearson about how to run a pass route at practice Aug. 9 at the school. said. “We lost a lot of beef, Adam Minichino/Dispatch Staff we lost a lot of speed. We have a lot to make up for. and it shows the kind of “People are pushing themselves a lot harder it try to improve on last who have been in here lift- The leaders have to make fight this season’s team season’s 10-2 finish. ing weights non-stop, a step and take everybody will have to match what it because we know what we have to fill in for. “Everybody who start- including myself. I think to the next level.” did in 2010. ed last year as a junior they people underestimating In all, Central Academy “People are pushing Every practice, everybody is running their played just as hard as the us is going to help us lost six seniors, including themselves a lot harder seniors did,” Newman said. because we’re probably leaders like Ferris because we know what we sprints as hard as they could.” “We played for them, and going to give a little sur- McGuire and Rowdy have to fill in for,” Newman we expect the people under prise at the end, or at least Rigdon, who is back this said. “Every practice, us to play for us, just like I hope so.” everybody is running their Central Academy senior quarterback we did them. We push each Pearson, who paced season with Sciple to Cole Newman assist head coach Ronnie sprints as hard as they other and try to make each the team in tackles last Sciple. With a roster of could. It made me feel Vikings will still run the and I am going to back other better — in the season, said the team still only 14 or 15 players, good as a senior because football because they do there and be his fullback. weight room, on the field.” will line it up and run right Central Academy won’t be they’re pushing them- have some size remaining He knows I am going to Newman is the ideal at opponents. He bristles able to use depth to over- selves for us. with offensive linemen block for him and all he player to direct the attack. at the notion that the come its size losses. But “It’s a good feeling Cody Brown and Redmon has to do is grab my belt He has been playing foot- Vikings won’t be able to the five senior mainstays whenever you see a junior Butler back. But he also loop and we’re gone.” ball at Central Academy do that after losing nearly who have been with the or a sophomore or a fresh- knows a smaller front Newman said the sen- since the eighth grade. He 700 pounds of beef up program for the past sev- man pushing themselves to might lend itself better to iors tried to get a jump feels comfortable in front to graduation. eral years feel the team even beat a senior in some- a team that can throw the start on the season by Sciple’s offense and “We’re going to be the still has enough in place to thing. That is great. You football, too. As a result, organizing weight training believes he can handle team to try to beat,” help it contend for a divi- want to see that. You want the Vikings have incorpo- sessions in the offseason. any twist Sciple might Pearson said. “Everybody sion title and to make to see someone who is rated several new wrin- The 2010 group didn’t uti- work in. If needed, he also is going to be hard-headed another playoff push. going to push themselves kles into the offense to lize the training time, but can help a teammate get about it. Everybody thinks Last season, the to be a little bit better every capitalize on what teams Newman and Pearson said into the right position. He we’re going to be easy Vikings bulled all of the day. We need that.” think they will do. they knew members of the said that kind of teamwork now. I guarandangtee it. way to the Mississippi Newman may have to “We had about 1,000 2011 team had to come is going to be essential if With all we lost, they Association of push himself the hardest. pounds of beef on the line back to school stronger the squad wants to relive thought our backs and our Independent Schools He is going to have to last year,” Pearson said. and in better condition. its march to the state title line was all we had. But Eight-Man title game. A transition to quarterback “We’re going to try a cou- So far, the work has this season. they got anther thing 56-18 loss to Kemper to run an offense that will ple of different things. paid off as Central “I like people underes- comin’ when they see us. Academy doesn’t indicate do things a little different- Cole always runs behind Academy appears to have timating us,” Newman It is going to be a different how close the game was, ly. Coach Sciple said the me on kickoffs and stuff, fresher legs that will help said. “We have some guys ballgame for us.”

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 22 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com ABERDEEN BULLDOGS

The Aberdeen High School football team will be stacked on defense this season thanks to the return of eight seniors, including defensive end Channing Ward, center, back, one of the most sought after recruits in the state of Mississippi. The Bulldogs also will look to seniors Jalen Bell, Corino Blanchard, Demario Wilson, Braxton Anderson, Michael Hodges, Brandon Walker, and Jordan Gathings. DEFENSEAdam Minichino/Dispatch Staff WON’T REST UNTIL IT HITS ZERO

BY ADAM MINICHINO get to division play I think 2011 [email protected] offensively we’re going to be clicking just as good or SCHEDULE ABERDEEN — Zero. better than we have been.” That’s a big number for As the largest school in AUG. 19 COLUMBUS the Aberdeen High School Class 3A, Duncan under- AUG. 26 SHANNON football team to set as a stands every team will be Sept. 2 at Amory goal for the 2011 season. gunning for his squad, Sept. 9 at Noxubee County But with eight seniors which initially looked to SEPT. 16 WEST BOLIVAR on defense and nine be moving up to Class 4A. Sept. 23 at Louisville returning starters back But Duncan put together a SEPT. 30 MANTACHIE Oct. 7 at Nettleton from a unit that had four challenging first six OCT. 14 MOOREVILLE shutouts and allowed an games of the season that average of 7.6 points per Oct. 21 at Water Valley features Columbus, OCT. 29 SOUTH PONTOTOC game, it’s easy to see what Shannon, Amory, the Bulldogs are setting Noxubee County, West HOME GAMES IN CAPS the bar high for this sea- Bolivar, and Louisville. He son. is confident that slate will “We’re looking forward prepare his team well for 2011 ROSTER to not getting any points district play. 1-Corino Blanchard, 2- scored on us,” senior “I try my best not to Demario Wilson, 3-Tamarkus Jalen Bell said. “Zero. It is them to rank us No. 1 Payne, 4-Trey Mims, 5- a tall order, but everybody because if you’re ranked Braxton Anderson, 6-Joshua is motivated. We have Ewing, 7-Aaron Mcmillian, 8- No. 1 everybody wants to Michael Hodges, 9-Sammy been to state two years in beat you,” Duncan said. Burroughs, 10-Justin Lucas, a row and we haven’t “But the kids know every- 11-Channing Ward, 12- brought it back home. body wants to play us and Jeremy Brandon, 13-Jalen That is the goal this year. everybody wants to beat Bell, 16-Josh Williams, 17- If you don’t bring the title us.” Nic Hodges, 18-Quincey home it isn’t a good feel- Ward knows the feel- Crump, 19-Calvin Wyatt, 20- ing.” ing. The defensive line- Brandon Walker, 21-Elliot Aberdeen lost to man/tight end is being Johnson, 22-Jeffery Riddle, Tylertown in the hotly pursued by 23-Chris McMillian, 24-Levail Mississippi High School Mississippi State and the McFarland, 25-Dewayne Word, 26-Rodarius Smith, Activities Association University of Mississippi. 27-Devontae Fudge, 28-Tyler Class 3A state title game He said in July he likes Fields, 29-Moses Gathins, in 2009. Last year, Ole Miss because his 30-Lamonte Thompson, 31- Aberdeen may have been brother goes to school Quinton Doss, 32-Damien one spot away from a there and that they “make Walker 33-Jordan Gathings, championship, only to see you feel like home.” But 34-Myles Perkins, 43- the spot go against it en Ward also said he really Janorris Blanchard, 50- route to a 10-8 loss to likes MSU defensive coor- Brandon Hodges, 51-Bobby Forest. dinator Chris Wilson and Ward, 52-Tavarus Eckford, This year, multi-talent- Aberdeen High School’s Channing Ward has seen playing time at tight end, but he likely will spend his style of play. He said 53-James Randle, 54-Zavia more time this season on defense terrorizing quarterbacks. Stan Beall/Special to the Dispatch Forshee, 55-Rickie ed and highly recruited he isn’t sure when he McAllister, 56-Latherio Cox, make his college decision, Channing Ward leads a 57-Jordan Gathings, 58- defense that will rely on “The defense can be real good. It can be a defense to help make up but that he thinks he will Travia Garth, 59-Jamarkus the sting of two title losses for youth an inexperience make his decision before Irons, 60-Theodore Boyd, 61- to motivate it through a shutout season this year if we cut out the on offense. he goes to the Under Devontae Walker, 63-Aaron tough six-game stretch to The Bulldogs will have Armour All-American Wilson, 65-Jordan Gladney, open the season. little mistakes and play hard all of the time.” to replace 2,000-yard gain- Game. 66-Jamarcus Tallie, 67-Jahrel “The defense can be er Victor Hodges and the Until then, Ward and Wilson, 72-Trey Keys, 80- real good,” Ward said. “It versatile Brandon Smith. his classmates have unfin- Juan Davis, 84-Tyree Gates. can be a shutout season Aberdeen High School Freshman Josh Williams ished business. He and this year if we cut out the senior lineman Channing Ward will take over at quarter- Bell hope they have what little mistakes and play back. it takes to get it done. CLASS 3A hard all of the time.” we’re going to get it this had. “We’re going to put our “It takes a special sen- REGION 2, DISTRICT 1 Ward has done his best year,” Ward said of losing “I think this is the best best on defense and do it ior group to win a state to erase the memory of to Forest. one we have had,” Duncan that way,” Duncan said. championship, and this Aberdeen year, hopefully, we have a Mantachie last season. He said he Ward, Bell, Demario said. “We should have a “That is how you win it.” Mooreville and his teammates who Wilson, Braxton good year on that side of “You can do things better group than we did Nettleton play defense have dis- Anderson, Michael the ball. We should be offensively that you nor- last year,” Duncan said. South Pontotoc Water Valley cussed the possibility of Hodges, Justin Lucas, dominant.” mally wouldn’t do if you’re “The ball didn’t roll our not allowing any points. Brandon Walker, Jordan Duncan said the good on defense. You just way last year. We were He said the sense Gathings, Zavia Forshee, defense played well in the don’t put yourself in bad good enough to have a Aberdeen still is fighting and Sammy Burroughs spring against Class 5A situations or make chance to win it and it just for respect is a motivator will lead a defense that Lake Cormorant. He said turnovers or take a lot of didn’t go our way. You just for a defense he believes Aberdeen High coach he knows of no better way chances. take what worked, go is faster and more athletic. Chris Duncan said is the than to rely on the swarm- “I think by midway back to work, and go at it “It was frustrating, but most experienced he has ing athleticism of his through the year when we again.” HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 23 HAMILTON LIONS

1-Austin Welch, 2-Cedric Bell, 3-Pallas Fair, 5-Quinshay Heard, 7-Cole Robinson, 8-Zarrat Sims, 9-Sequintis Coleman, 11-Cole Richardson, 13-Curry Smith, 15-Jordan Jackson, 18-Caleb Garvin, 20-Cojuante McMillian, 21-Deion Howard, 24-Tanner Dement, 32-Michael Roberts, 40-Silas Gill, 50-Kyle Dahlem, 51-Evan Phillips, 54-Dominique Dobbs, 55-Jeremy Howard, 56-Dallas Stockman, 60-Jeremy Lindsey, 61- OFFENSEGage Morris, 62-Ken Spruill, 65-Mark WILL Tipton, 66-Davis GIVE Hankins, 67-Tyler LIONS Jones, 68-Nick Owens, CHANCE 69-Ryan Gilbert, 73-Reed Dyess, TO 95-Rudy RECAPTURE Trimble. MAGIC

BY ADAM MINICHINO But those aren’t the “I think they know we Whether it is the Weeks said. “We have a lot gives Hamilton, which [email protected] memories that build pro- speedy Sims or the strong- coming back, and they are beat Ackerman last year, a grams. have a chance to have armed Welch at quarter- confident in their abilities. good shot to finish as high HAMILTON — McMillian, Sims, and back, the Lions have a I don’t want them to get as second in the region. Cojuante McMillian, Welch prefer to go back a one of the best teams potent one-two punch. too overconfident because But those are the Zarrat Sims, and Austin few more years to the McMillian anchors a we haven’t done anything expectations you should Welch know their history. 1970s and early 1980s we have had here in a cadre of running backs yet. I think they know have when you have nine Recent events — like when coach Jimmie that is three deep at tail- what is at stake. I think seniors and eight players two losses in the first Moore’s Hamilton teams long time. We have a back and fullback. Add in they understand what back on offense. round of the playoffs in ranked with the best in a capable group of they can accomplish.” The experience works their career and five the state. lot coming back, and receivers that includes The latest reclassifica- well with a new attitude straight losing seasons for Moore’s Lions went Welch and Weeks can talk tion by the Mississippi that has the Lions focused the program — are easier through the 1977 season they are confident in about realizing expecta- High School Activities on identity. Thanks to to remember. without allowing a point. tions and know his players Association might help assistant coach Devin Hill, Two years later, a winning their abilities.” agree. Hamilton, too. Even Hamilton has adopted a 2011 streak that grew to 51 “I think they know we though perennial power “Who Am I?” approach to games solidified Hamilton High School have a chance to have one Eupora remains, the addi- the season. The answer — SCHEDULE Hamilton’s place in state coach Ray Weeks of the best teams we have tion of Williams-Sullivan football history. had here in a long time,” to Class 2A, Region 2 See HAMILTON, 24 AUG. 19 SMITHVILLE This season, AUG. 26 HOULKA McMillian, Sims, and they want to play us to Sept. 2 at Kossuth Welch want to help beat us to say they have Sept. 9 at Hatley Hamilton recapture that done something.” Sept. 16 at Houston magic. To help them, they Hamilton hasn’t stirred SEPT. 23 WALNUT have a picture of Moore’s those feelings in many # SEPT. 30 WILLIAM SULLIVAN juggernauts in the opponents in the past S OCT. 7 EUPORA ' Oct. 14 at J.Z. George Hamilton High football decade. The Lions last had K Oct. 21 at East Webster locker room. a winning season in 2005, N OCT. 28 ACKERMAN “We’re trying to bring when they finished 2005. A back the tradition because You have to go back HOME GAMES IN CAPS before 1994 to find the last H in the 1970s and 80s Hamilton was a football time a Hamilton High foot- 1 CLASS 2A team you did not want to ball team won a playoff Championship BBQ & Catering play,” Welch said. “They game. REGION 2, DISTRICT 4 never called the dogs off Those historical mark- Where the BBQ is personalized, and they played football. ers will serve only as moti- Ackerman vation for a team that East Webster They would come out and not commercialized and Eupora hit you every Friday night. appears to have the Hamilton That is what we’re trying weapons to make oppo- J.Z. George every customer is a BBQ judge to us all! Williams-Sullivan to build back up here, so nents stand up and take teams want to play us, but notice.

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From left: Hamilton High School’s Zarrat Sims, Austin Welch, and Cojuante McMillian should give hanksbbq.com the Lions three dangerous weapons that can strike from anywhere on the field this season. Adam Minichino/Dispatch Staff [email protected] © The Dispatch

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PREVIEW 24 SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2011 THE DISPATCH • www.cdispatch.com 2011 LOCAL SCHEDULES Hamilton Columbus High Starkville Academy Continued from Page 23 Aug. 19 at Aberdeen Aug. 19 St. Andrews Aug. 26 Open Aug. 26 at Heritage “I am a Champion” — is are supposed to be when Sept. 2 West Point Sept. 9 New Hope Sept. 2 Magnolia Heights designed to hold the play- the ball is snapped.” Sept. 16 at Louisville Sept. 9 at Leake ers accountable to push Sims came to Hamilton Sept. 23 Tupelo Sept. 16 at Hillcrest them to work harder to in seventh grade and Sept. 30 at Southaven Sept. 23 at J. Prep realize championship joined a group that went Oct. 7 South Panola Sept. 30 Copiah Oct. 14 at Desoto Central Oct. 7 Park Lane dreams. on to have special success Oct. 21 Horn Lake Oct. 28 at Olive Branch Oct. 14 at Winston “Every year I have been in eighth grade. Many of Nov. 4 Grenada Oct. 21 ERA here we have had Eupora the players from that team Oct. 28 at Pres. Chr. or East Webster in our are still together in high Heritage Academy Aug. 19 at Lamar division,” Welch said. school. Welch and Aug. 26 Starkville Academy West Oktibbeha “When we get to that McMillian, who have Sept. 2 Caledonia Aug. 19 at Univ. Christian Sept. 9 at MRA Aug. 26 Montgomery Co. weekend it is like, ‘Oh no, played together since Pee Sept. 16 at Lee Sept. 8 Eupora we have to worry about Wees, said they used to Sept. 23 JA Sept. 16 at Nanih Waiya that.’ This year it is going talk about what it would be Sept. 30 Magnolia Heights Sept. 23 Weir Oct. 7 at Oak Hill to be the opposite. They’re like to play football togeth- Oct. 14 Open Sept. 30 at Sebastopol going to have to worry er in high school. Oct. 21 at Washington Oct. 7 Ethel Oct. 28 Pillow Oct. 14 at West Lowndes about us because we have Now that the time has Oct. 21 East Oktibbeha enough talent to push finally arrived, it’s time to West Lowndes Oct. 28 at Noxapater them on the field.” back up the optimism and Aug. 19 at Montgomery Co. Aug. 25 at Caledonia Nov. 4 at Pelahatchie Welch said the Lions make this a season to Sept. 2 Shannon might not have a lot of remember. Sept. 9 Ethel West Point size and weight up front, “We don’t mean to brag, Sept. 16 Open Aug. 20 South Panola Sept. 23 at East Oktibbeha Aug. 26 Open but he said their speed but we know what we Sept. 30 Noxapater Sept. 2 at Columbus will be tough to contain. have,” Sims said. “That is Oct. 7 at Pelahatchie Oct. 14 West Oktibbeha Sept. 9 Starkville With Sims, or “Bootie” as why coach pushes us so Oct. 21 at Nanih Waiya Sept. 16 at Noxubee he is known to his team- hard because he knows Oct. 28 Weir Sept. 23 at Lake Cormorant Nov. 4 at Sebastopol mates, running a show, what we got. We have a Sept. 30 Hernando Starkville High School coach Jamie Mitchell is counting on Bryce defenses will have to be great opportunity this Oct. 7 at Clarksdale Immanuel Henderson and David Fair to be leaders for the 2011 season. wary to stop a shifty quar- year, and we’re trying to Aug. 19 Winona Christian Oct. 14 Saltillo Kelly Tippett/Dispatch Staff Aug. 26 at Leake Academy Oct. 21 at Center Hill terback and a stable of make the best out of it.” Sept. 2 Marshall Academy Oct. 28 at Oxford equally slithery running Said McMillian, “I am Sept. 9 at New Site Nov. 4 New Hope backs. looking for a champi- Sept. 16 Canton Academy Starkville Sept. 23 Open Continued from Page 13 “We have weapons all onship. First we have to Sept. 30 at Carroll Academy Oak Hill Academy around on the offense,” look to Smithville (first Oct. 7 Potts Camp Aug. 19 Newton Oct. 14 at Manchester Academy Aug. 26 at Winston motions and shifts, there’s For success on the Sims said. “We have two game of the season). We Oct. 21 Winston Academy Sept. 2 at Indianola no confusion with the edges, Rogers and Cannon great running backs, we haven’t won our district in Oct. 28 at Oak Hill Academy Sept. 9 Manchester blocking schemes, even will provide great pulling have a young fullback — a looong time. I am not Sept. 16 at Winona New Hope with new offensive line options for Myles and the my brother — we have sure how long it has been, Aug. 19 at Louisville Sept. 23 at Canton experience at wide receiv- but it has been a while. We Aug. 26 Open Sept. 30 Leake coach Justin Moss. running backs to follow. Sept. 2 Noxubee Oct. 7 Heritage “He’s a tough guy,” Neither Rogers nor er. The whole team is just have to look to Smithville Sept. 9 at Columbus Oct. 14 Open Rogers said of Moss. “He Cannon weigh more than a whole, big chemistry, first and then we have to Sept. 16 Caledonia Oct. 21 at Kirk Sept. 23 at Saltillo gets the most out of us and 240 pounds, but both play- and we all know where we go one by one.” Sept. 30 Oxford Oct. 28 Immanuel keeps us working hard. It’s ers are exceptionally Oct. 7 at Hernando been a smooth transition.” quick, Mitchell said. Oct. 14 Lake Cormorant Central Academy Oct. 21 at Clarksdale Aug. 19 at Calvary With Myles at quarter- “When you think of Looking for local players in college Oct. 28 Center Hill Aug. 26 Calhoun back, Starkville again will those two guys, you think Nov. 4 at West Point Sept. 2 at Delta have a dynamic threat speed and athleticism,” The Dispatch will feature a former local high Victory Christian Sept. 9 Marvell under center. While Mitchell said. “You’ll see school athlete who has gone on to play a sport in col- Aug. 12 at Russell Christian Sept. 16 at Kemper Johnson was effective at them on the move, in lege. Aug. 19 Victory Baptist Sept. 23 Veritas Aug. 26 Open Sept. 30 Russell running the ball between open space helping us If you would like to nominate a college player of Sept. 2 New Life the week, call us at 662-327-1297, 662-241-5000 or 1- Sept. 9 Tabernacle Oct. 7 at N. Sunflower the tackles, Myles is quick- make plays. They bring a Sept. 16 Open Oct. 14 at Franklin er to the perimeter. But great dimension to our 888-477-1555 or email us at [email protected] Sept. 23 at Heritage Christian Oct. 21 Calvary he’s also inexperienced. offense.” before 5 p.m. Saturday. Sept. 29 at Flint Hill Oct. 7 Open Be sure to give us a reason why you are nominat- Aberdeen High Oct. 14 at North River Inside Starkville ing the player, and be sure to give us as many statis- Oct. 21 Tuscaloosa Christian Aug. 19 Columbus Aug. 26 Shannon tics from the past week’s action. Caledonia High Sept. 2 at Amory “The staff didn’t We also are compiling a list of former local high Aug. 19 Nettleton Sept. 9 at Noxubee County 44 school athletes. If you know of any former local high Aug. 27 West Lowndes Sept. 16 West Bolivar Sept. 2 at Heritage Academy I Number of players coach know a lot about school athletes playing a sport in college, call us at Sept. 8 East Webster Sept. 23 at Louisville Jamie Mitchell anticipates 662-327-1297, 662-241-5000 or 1-888-329-8937 or e- Sept. 16 at New Hope Sept. 30 Mantachie mail us at [email protected]. Sept. 23 Ackerman Oct. 7 at Nettleton playing on offense and some players this Sept. 30 at Carthage Oct. 14 Mooreville defense each Friday night. Oct. 7 Houston Oct. 21 at Water Valley spring. But we can Oct. 14 at Louisville Oct. 29 South Pontotoc Position Oct. 21 Kosciusko Oct. 28 at Noxubee County Breakdown now rest on the fact Hamilton High Starkville High Aug. 19 Smithville that we have them in Aug. 19 at Noxubee County Aug. 26 Houlka QUARTERBACK Aug. 26 Madison Central Sept. 2 at Kossuth Sept. 2 Tupelo Gabe Myles, the position they Sept. 9 at West Point Sept. 9 at Hatley Sept. 16 Open Sept. 16 at Houston Mike Newman. Sept. 23 Lanier Sept. 23 Walnut I Myles, a junior, takes need to be Sept. 30 Provine Sept. 30 Williams-Sullivan over for three-year starter Oct. 7 at Ridgeland Oct. 7 Eupora Oct. 14 Canton Jaquez Johnson. Myles Starkville High School Oct. 21 at Yazoo City Oct. 14 at J.Z. George Oct. 28 Callaway Oct. 21 at East Webster missed most of last coach Jamie Mitchell Nov. 4 at Neshoba Central Oct. 28 Ackerman season with a broken collarbone. LINEBACKER “Gabe has had a good David Fair, Taylor Johnston, Volunteers summer and first week. Dennis Ware, Continued from Page 14 We’re finding his strengths Stanley Higgins, and his hands well. He’ll lay the motions.” and what he does well,” Marlo Rogers. Higgins and Fair bring a that hat on you.” It wasn’t until Starkville Starkville High coach I physical presence to the Catchot wasn’t always Academy snapped its two- Jamie Mitchell said. on board with Terrill’s year losing streak with a group. rebuilding movement. Homecoming win against “I feel like that’s probably RUNNING BACK Like many of his current Winston Academy that the strength of us. All of Devontae Davis, Preston and former teammates, he Catchot bought in. those guys are going to wasn’t committed to the “Up to that point, it was Backer, Stanley Higgins, have to play great for us.” game following a winless hard to say I wanted to and David Fair. sophomore season. play if we weren’t gonna I Mitchell believes SECONDARY “When we first got be a good team,” Catchot Higgins and Fair make Taego Catledge, here, he had a big ques- said. “When we won that fullback the most solid Raphael McClain, tion mark on his jersey,” game, something just kind position on the team. Jacoby Smith, Johnny Smith, Terrill said. “Kids heard of clicked. I think it did for “Tailback is still unknown. After two years of serving as a backup to quarterback Justin Cox, Stanley Childs. the words that it was going a lot of people. It really Preston broke his jaw and DeQuinten Spraggins will take over the position this season for Safeties Childs and to be different but they made me want to take missed six game and I the two-time defending Mississippi High School Activities Johnny Smith are the most wanted to see it.” advantage of my senior Deontae was ineligible last Association Class 5A state champion West Point Green Wave. experienced returners. Luisa Porter/Dispatch Staff When Terrill first got to year.” year. Both have all the Starkville Academy, Starkville Academy will “We’ve got really good tools.” Catchot was playing on the play host to St. Andrews speed back there. The offensive line and was on Aug. 19 in its season competition level is great.” West Point admittedly “going through opener. RECEIVERS Continued from Page 18 Princeton Jones, Kentrell KICKERS / PUNTERS his ear. The one-on-one at it like that if you want Inside Starkville Academy Spencer, Jimmy Saulsberry, Daniel Fumo, work has been vital as something to compete Fontavious Smith, and Charlie Henderson, Spraggins is learning the against, but I can’t let that DEFENSIVE LINE SECONDARY Eddie Brown. Mike Newman, Angus Catchot, Ryan McKell, Austin Miles, Kelvin Young. rhythm of running the be my motivation. I’ve got I Saulsberry impressed in plays and the discipline of teammates who are count- Lane McLendon, Brandon Sharp, and I Newman will punt, while the spring game and is the lining everyone up. ing on me.” Colin Stokes, Drew Pellum. proven playmaker. Fumo and Henderson could share kicking duties. “It’s just things you’re To Grisham, there isn’t Jordan Bright, and I McKell is the best “It’s a group that can real- "Fumo was out guy last not normally in control of much separating Zack Thomas. athlete of the group and ly run, but there’s a lot of year, but Charlie is apply- playing on defense or at Spraggins and Cox, other I Under new defensive will also play a major role faces who didn’t play a ing the pressure." any other position,” than proven productivity. coordinator Bubba Davis, on offense. whole lot last year.” Spraggins said. “But it’s “He may not be as fast, the Volunteers will play "They’ve all had some nothing too challenging but he isn’t far behind,” gap defense Davis has good days. Nobody is just OFFENSIVE LINE because I’ve been prepar- Grisham said of used for 41 years. head and shoulders above Cory Cannon, Eric Rogers, ing for this day for a long Spraggins. “They’re very “These guys will be the rest, which is a good Jawon Johnson, Kelvin time.” similar.” Chambless said More so than replacing important up front at thing because they’ve all Young, and Brian Manner. Spraggins will be “well- Cox, Spraggins has his reading what’s going on in done adequate up to this I The Jackets return three versed” in pre-snap attention on West Point’s the backfield. We’ll be point.” starters responsibilities and the schedule. The two-time able adjust to any “I think there’s five guys playbook, but execution defending Class 5A state formation.” KICKERS / PUNTERS on offense we’re leaning will be the only question champions will open the Zach Thomas, Matt Jones, on and three of them are mark. season with nationally- LINEBACKER Jonathon Burton, and on the line.” To Spraggins, his abili- ranked and two-time Zach Slaughter, Colby Runnels DEFENSIVE LINE ty to be as effective as Cox defending Class 6A James Mapp, I Thomas has locked Jawon Johnson, Latajah remains a lingering con- champs South Panola. Stephen Robertson, down the long snapper Bush, Cory Cannon, cern to people outside the “Anybody can go out Ryan Mann, JM Robinson. position, while Jones and Stanley Higgins, team. and beat the rooty-poot Ryan Mann Burton will split kicking Eric Rogers, Kelvin Young. “All the fans want to teams,” Spraggins said. know: Will we have anoth- “But, seriously, who Robertson and James duties. Runnels will punt. I Undersized group that I er like (Cox)?” Spraggins wouldn’t want the chance relies on quickness. Mapp return at linebacker. "Some good competition said. “I wouldn’t mind put- to play South Panola? The “Depth will be key, and a going on with this group." “We’re going to have to be ting up those kind of num- chance to beat those boys? lot of young kids have to outstanding here. All six bers, but I don’t have to fill That’s where my motiva- grow up fast.” will play.” his shoes. It’s good to look tion comes from.”