The Memphis Area Pre-season Dandy Dozen as done by the Commercial Appeal

kwc · August 15, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 12: St. Georgeâ€™s aiming for second straight title

The Commercial Appeal files St. George's coach David Carter gives a few pointers to his linemen during practice. The Gryphons were Division 2-A state champs and finished 13-1 last season.

Aug. 13, 2016

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

Ben Glass isn't happy with just one.

Glass, the standout senior quarterback at St. George's, guided the Gryphons to the Division 2-A state championship in 2015, earning offensive MVP honors after accounting for a BlueCross Bowl-record six touchdowns in a 50-20 victory over Northpoint.

It was the most impressive performance by the Gryphons in a season that had quite a few. But Glass says he doesn't want to stop there.

"(Assistant) coach (Aaron) Hayden told Chase (Hayden) and me that his goal for us was to win multiple state championships," he said. "That's our goal. We just have to take that same mentality into this season."

Added head coach David Carter: "It was an amazing year for the St. George's family. And we have some special guys coming back."

First the bad news.

Carter will have to replace the entire starting line that paved the way for an offense that rolled up an area-best 413.9 yards per game. After having Jacob Still (290 pounds), Ryan Young (260) and Spencer Scofield (255) for the past few years, the replacements will be considerably smaller.

"Last year we had guys on the line who were able to win a lot of one-on-ones," Carter said. "This year, we have guys that are capable of doing that but maybe not as often. ... It's kind of like trying a new restaurant. We're going to have to pick some new things here and there from the menu."

Said Glass: "I think our line is going to do a good-enough job. We run the spread and we're going to try to hit some quick passes into the flat. I think we'll be all right."

The good news is if the line comes together, the offense should be every bit as lethal.

Hayden was named Mr. Football in D2-A last year after running for 2,511 yards, averaging 9.8 yards per carry and scoring 31 touchdowns to lead Shelby County in all three categories. He was named one of the top prospects at the prestigious Nike Opening camp and committed to Arkansas last month after fielding offers from well over 30 schools.

Glass, who will be starting for the third straight season, had a remarkable season in his own right, completing 65.6 percent of his passes for 2,169 yards and 27 touchdowns and running for 719 and 11 scores. And oh yeah, he was intercepted just once.

The third side of the triangle is senior wide receiver Corey Jones, who caught 44 passes for 1,086 yards (a county-best 27.4 yards per catch) and scored 14 touchdowns. Jimbo Casey will also see a lot of action at receiver.

"It's a lot of fun when you have this many weapons," said Glass. "Of course with Chase you have to honor the run and that opens the passing game up for Corey."

On defense, Noah Pope is back for his senior year after setting the BlueCross Bowl record with five sacks while earning defensive MVP honors. He's no slouch off the field either; he'll play college football at Yale.

Hayden, Jones and Casey will also help out in the secondary, along with talented junior Met Proctor and speedy junior Bryan Payne. Standout linebacker Jake Lindow has moved on to Navy, but Nick Boudreau and Timber King will slot in nicely.

Edited August 15, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 15, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 11: Harding poised for run at state title

Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal Harding Academy wide receiver Nick Martin had 42 receptions and returned a punt for a touchdown in 2015 and is primed for a big season with the Lions.

August 3, 2016 â€” Hunter Morgan (15) runs a play during Harding Academy's football practice. (Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

Aug. 13, 2016

Harding Academy football coach Johnny Allen has the look and sound of a man who just found a $20 bill in an old pair of pants.

Allen, who was the head coach at Rossville Christian before spending last season as defensive coordinator at CBHS, is the Lions' new coach, replacing Ryan Derrick, who resigned in June to move back to Texas. Under normal circumstances, a coaching change at that late date would indicate serious problems.

But not for Allen. He's walked into a gold mine.

"I'm blessed," he said. "I couldn't have asked for a better scenario. Coach Derrick laid the fundamentals. We have the talent."

Indeed, the Lions could very well be the most talented team in school history. Just about every key contributor returns from last year's team that went 10-3, losing to eventual state champion St. George's in the semifinals of the Division 2-A playoffs.Allen doesn't need to change much and he won't. But he does intend to incorporate some of the lessons he learned last year under Thomas McDaniel.

"We're going to practice at tempo," he said. "I'm going to take the things I learned under coach McDaniel and build on them.

"The key thing is to get them to play together. You see people on Twitter saying they have 18 offers or whatever ... but my goal is to get them to play for something bigger than themselves."

For the players, it's been so far, so good.

"He doesn't play around," said running back Marquavious Moore.

Added wide receiver/defensive back Nick Martin, "He's an energy person and I like that because I'm an energy person myself."

There's only one real question mark, but it's at the most important position on the field â€” quarterback.

Montgomery, who had started since his freshman year, has decamped to Oxford (Mississippi) for his senior season. The starter looks likely to be Ty Kimberlin, a terrific athlete who qualified for Spring Fling in the decathlon. Allen said freshman Myles Neey could also play.

"We just have to let him know that we have his back," Moore said of the new quarterback. "We just have to keep encouraging him ... and be us."

The 5-foot-11, 200-pound Moore had a spectacular junior season, rushing for 1,872 yards (7.1 per carry) and scoring 20 touchdowns. The yardage total was the fourth-highest of any player in Shelby County, trailing only Chase Hayden of St. George's, Trezevant's Cordarrian Richardson and Whitehaven's Kylan Watkins.

But he's not the only playmaker; Allen has "the two fastest guys in the state."

That would be Martin â€” who had 42 receptions and returned a punt for a touchdown in 2015 â€” and Calvin Austin. The state champion in the 100-, 200- and 400-meter dashes, Austin averaged 27.8 yards on six punt returns â€” bringing two back for touchdowns â€” while adding 45 catches for 922 yards and 15 scores.

Up front, junior Zach Lawrence, who has started since his eighth-grade year, has offers from more than 30 Division 1 schools. Antonio Chew and Printess Smith don't necessarily have the college size, but are terrific high school linemen. And then there's 290-pound veteran Mason Harwell.

The real star on defense, though, is 5-11, 215-pound junior linebacker Keilan Hulon, a weight-room freak who owns the school record with a 640-pound squat. Austin and Martin will hold things down in the secondary.

Edited August 15, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 15, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 10: East hoping for fewer turnovers, more success

August 12, 2016- East High standout Timothy Taylor, center, looks for a receiver on an option play during a recent jamboree. (Nikki Boertman/The Commercial Appeal)

August 12, 2016- Members of the East High football team huddle up before a play during a recent jamboree. (Nikki Boertman/The Commercial Appeal)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

East High football coach Marcus Wimberly spent preseason drills in a walking boot thanks a torn Achilles tendon, a setback he jokingly called "an old man injury."

And while the coach wasn't at full speed, his Mustangs still look pretty healthy, despite some significant personnel losses.

Several key players return from last year's team that finished 12-2 and advanced to the 4A state semifinals, where it lost to Nashville Pearl-Cohn. And while a repeat of 2015 would be asking a lot, Wimberly sounds pretty confident.

"We played a lot of guys last year so we have guys coming back that got a lot of playing time," he said. "Of course linemen are always at a premium, especially when you don't have a lot of depth ... but we're especially excited about our skill guys."

No. 1 among those skill guys â€” and No. 1 on the roster â€” will be senior running back Timothy Taylor. The 5-10, 190-pounder has committed to the University of Memphis and will do a little bit of everything for the Mustangs, including kick.

His production will be vital now that DeVante Turner (1,684 yards, 28 touchdowns) has graduated.

"He's going to be our featured running back, of course, but we're going to move him around like we've done since he's been at East," Wimberly said. "For Tim, it's about touches, not what position he plays. ... He's a dynamic playmaker."

The coach is also optimistic about the new starting quarterback, sophomore Justin Lynn.

"I had some real concerns coming out of spring but he's shown a lot of improvement," Wimberly said.

Qwynnterrio Cole will see plenty of action at wide receiver and the Mustangs have good size up front, led by massive junior John Wrister, who won a state championship last spring as a reserve on the Mustangs' basketball team.

All four will also play a key role on the defense, which returns several key contributors from a unit that ranked eighth in Shelby County in 2015, allowing 223.4 yards per game.

"I think we can make a run this year," said Taylor. "We've got some fast receivers and a good running back, which is me. And our defense is going to win games. ... We hit 'em hard and swarm to the ball."

The main focus in the preseason was limiting the turnovers that have proved so costly in two of the last three years.

The Mustangs gave the ball away four times in the first half against Pearl-Cohn last year and were also generous on the road against Henry County in the 5A semifinals in 2013, losing 17-14 against a team that finished 15-0 and won the state championship.

"That's what we've focused on, turnovers," said Wimberly. "We hadn't turned it over (much) all year and we turned it over four times in the first half (against Pearl-Cohn). They killed us. Of course you have to have some luck, but I think turnovers kept us from going to the state championship game those two years."

Edited August 15, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 15, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 9: White Station still talented despite graduations

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White Station's football team is heading into the season without one of the best players to come through the city, Class 6A Mr. Football winner Dillon Mitchell.

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

It's impossible to avoid the elephant in the room. Or maybe, the elephant that isn't in the room any more.

White Station's football team is heading into the season without one of the best players to come through the city, Class 6A Mr. Football winner Dillon Mitchell. Now at Oregon â€” where he's poised to see significant playing time as a freshman â€” Mitchell caught 82 passes for 1,420 yards and 20 touchdowns and ran for 889 and 21 scores while accounting for 218.3 yards per game.

The man who supplied plenty of on-target passes, quarterback Burk Williams, is also gone, leaving a big hole in the Spartans' offense.

"We're not going to ask our quarterback (this year) to do what Burk did," said Joe Rocconi. "And we're not going to ask our receivers to do what Dillon did. With him, it was like 'Dillon we need you, go do it.' One guy isn't going to score (that many) touchdowns. But maybe four guys can."

White Station has guys who are capable, which bodes well heading into Rocconi's fourth season and the second season in rugged Region 4-6A. Although things will look a little different.

"It's not so much formational as it is philosophical," said Rocconi. "Last year, it was more pass to set up the run.

This year it's going to be run to set up the pass."

The Spartans have a deep tailback corps; senior Trevor Forbes will start, but Greg Williams, Ty Woods and Darrell Howard will play. The line, anchored by 6-4, 290-pound Jalen Jones and 265-pound Deon Chambliss and three-year starting center Dason Barnes will also be a strength.

"We're going to be a run team first," said Forbes. "We have some good backs returning and we'll be able to have a lot of fresh legs. (But) everybody's going to have to pick it up and do their part."

Roland Williams and Myles Baker are quality receivers with lots of experience. The new quarterback will be John Lyons, one of the area's top utility men last year, lining up at tight end, H-back, receiver, linebacker and safety.

"The coaches have put a lot of faith in me and I don't want to let them down," Lyons said.

Defensively, the Spartans return eight starters, but they'll have to do better than they did in 2015. White Station gave up 34 or more points in three of the four games it lost and in three games it won.

"We gave up too many points," Rocconi said. "But I like this group; they really fly around to the ball."

Most of the starters will go both ways, with Howard holding down the defensive line and Lyons and Mickale Massey leading the way at linebacker. Williams and Baker, a pair of three-year starters, and Forbes form a fine secondary.

"We're stocky up front," said Forbes. "We're going to run blitz and stuff the middle ... and try to force you to throw. We're going to have to score off our defense."

The Spartans also have one of the better kickers in town in Micah Breckenridge, who connected on 57 of 62 extra point tries and 9 of 13 field goal attempts.

"We have some depth that we're not sure about," Rocconi said in addressing his concerns. "They could be really good, but we're just not sure how they'll do under the bright lights.

"We can't compare this year's team to last year's. ... We just have to stay true to our identity and what we do."

Edited August 15, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 17, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 8: Expectations high for Covington

Aug. 15, 2016

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

After a sub-par 2014 season, the Covington High football team looked like the Chargers of old in 2015. This season, they have the potential to look like the Chargers of 2012.

That team won its first 14 games before losing to Knoxville Fulton in the TSSAA BlueCross 4A state championship game. And while head coach Marty Wheeler certainly isn't printing up any title banners, the pieces are falling into place for a good run.

"There's a lot of excitement within the school and within the community," said Wheeler, who is heading into his eighth season as the Chargers' head coach.

"We do return quite a lot although we lost our top three tacklers. The offense is a little bit ahead of the defense right now. But we're optimistic as long as we stay healthy."

Now playing in 3A after the most recent TSSAA classification, the Chargers ended the year with a tough 23-21 loss to Milan in the second round of the playoffs. Their 9-3 finish was a marked improvement over a 3-7 campaign in 2014.

Covington's offense starts with T.J. Smith, who ran for 1,953 yards and scored 25 touchdowns as a junior. The Chargers are also in great shape at quarterback as Brock Lomax returns after an excellent season as a freshman starter.

"He doesn't look like a sophomore; he almost looks like a junior," Wheeler said. "That's not to say there aren't a lot of things he can improve on ... but he has a chance to be special."

Cornelius Kemp returns at linebacker while 290-pounder Octavious Lewis anchors the defensive line.

Andrew Owens is a three-year starter in the secondary where Smith also excels.

"T.J. is important for us on defense as he is on offense," Wheeler said.

A trip to Orange Mound to face Melrose on Aug. 26 and a home game against an improved Bolivar Central team the following week will go a long way to determining whether the Chargers repeat as Region 8-3A champs.

A closer look at No. 8 Covington

Head coach: Marty Wheeler (eighth season)

Last yearâ€™s record: 9-3 (lost to Milan in second round of the 3A playoffs)

Region: 8-3A

Players to watch: RB-DB T.J. Smith (not the biggest back around but definitely one of the most productive); QB Brock Lomax (started and played well as a freshman last year); DB Andrew Owens (three-year starter in the secondary); OL Octavious Lewis (290-pounder will open plenty of nice holes for Smith to dart through)

Key games: Aug. 26 at Melrose; Sept. 2 vs. Bolivar Central (if the Chargers can get two victories against their toughest region competition, they should be in good shape the rest of the way); Sept. 23 vs. Lausanne (worth the drive to Covington to check out this very good non-league match-up)

Did you know?: The Chargers have won nine or more games in 13 of the last 20 seasons.

Edited August 17, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 17, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 7: Lausanne has the look of a title contender

Aug. 15, 2016

Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal Lausanne quarterback Mario Nollan-Dillard, who threw for 1,714 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2015, is one of eight returning starters. "Mario's a two-threat guy," coach Kevin Locastro said.

August 4, 2015 - Lausanne's Cameron Kinley (left) takes down a reciever while running passing drills during practice at Lausanne Collegiate School. (Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

Three years ago, Lausanne coach Kevin Locastro had no problems throwing his freshmen football players into the deep end.

Not that he had a choice. The Lynx played their first full varsity season in 2013, and while taking a few lumps against more established teams, still finished 6-3.

And it's been steady progress ever since. Lausanne finished 6-4 in 2014 and 8-4 last year, reaching the playoffs for the first time in school history before falling to eventual state champ St. George's in the Division 2-A semifinals.

Now it's 2016 and the Lynx's goal is to be playing â€” and hopefully winning â€” on that first weekend in December.

"It's been a while since I was the hunted instead of the hunter," said Locastro with a laugh.

"It's good to be that guy. Sometimes you go into a season and say, 'Gosh, it would be good to win six or seven games.'

"But we've really got an opportunity (to win a state championship) if we're fortunate enough to be playing in December."

Lausanne's climb from fledgling varsity program to state title contenders in such a short time has been nothing short of remarkable.

And this year's senior class has bought into the idea that this year could be a special one.

"It's a four-year process," said defensive back Cameron Kinley. "We're two-deep on both sides of the ball. One thing our coaches always tell us is 'trust the process' and we're finally starting to see it come together. We're on the right track."

Kinley will lead the secondary along with Camren Taylor, who's battled through injuries during his career but is poised for a big season. The rest of the unit is young but will get a good test against a Germantown team that figures to fling it around plenty in the season opener.

Elsewhere, the Lynx are set. Four-year starter James Babb will quarterback the defense from his linebacker spot while junior Nyle Love (5-11, 215) is a terrific prospect who had 58 tackles and two sacks a year ago. Yusef Thomas and Patrick Massey will also contribute.

"We're going to move him around," said Locastro of Love. "We're going to put him in the box, outside the box, rush him off the edge. And James gave up AAU basketball over the summer and he spent his time in the weight room. He's a different-looking kid."

There's plenty of beef up front with Jarius Douglas (6-0, 270) and Josh Crawford (5-11, 250) leading the way along with Mekhi Prince.

"You build teams from front to back," said Locastro. "We feel very good about our line."

Offensively, things look every bit as promising.

Eight starters return led by quarterback Mario Nolan-Dillard, who threw for 1,714 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2015 while running for 683 and 11 more scores.

"It starts with the quarterback," said Locastro. "Mario's a two-threat guy who studies film and makes all the reads and progressions. We're going to run a lot of pass-run option with him."

Leading receiver Adam Boyce has graduated but Jesse Neloms returns along with Devon Boddie, who saw plenty of playing time as a freshman. The X-factor, though, could well be sophomore running back Eric Gray, who averaged 133 all-purpose yards in four games last year.

"He's one of the best athletes in the city," Locastro said. "We're going to move him around ... and let him be special."

A closer look at No. 7 Lausanne

Head coach: Kevin Locastro (fourth year)

Last yearâ€™s record: 8-4 (lost to St. Georgeâ€™s in Division 2-A quarterfinals)

Region: Division 2-A (West 1)

Players to watch: QB Mario Nolan-Dillard (poised, intelligent and will beat you running and passing); DB Cameron Kinley (veteran in the secondary who intercepted three passes in 2015); LB James Babb (starter since his freshman year; will quarterback the defense); LB Nyle Love (should be a lock for postseason honors)

Key games: Aug. 19 at Germantown (Lynx travel to face the team they beat 42-7 in last yearâ€™s opener); Sept. 16 at Harding (the stateâ€™s D2 title favorites go head-to-head; get there early); Oct. 13 at ECS (Eagles figure to be better and this one will be physical)

Did you know?: Defensive back Cameron Kinley is being heavily recruited by all three service academies.

Edited August 17, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 17, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 6: MUS shouldnâ€™t be underestimated, despite tough league

August 15, 2012 - (left) MUS head coach, Bobby Alston, leads his team through a practice scrimmage game. (Kyle Kurlick/Special to The Commercial Appeal)

Friday Oct 30, 2015 - Memphis University School's Steven Regis goes to the air as the Owls hosted the Christian Brothers Purple Wave for the regular season title Friday night (Chris Desmond/Special to The Commercial Appeal)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

For a program with an established track record of great success, Memphis University School finds itself in a bit of an unfamiliar position heading into the 2016 season.

The Owls' archrival in Division 2-AA West, CBHS, looks â€” on paper at least â€” very strong. Another league rival, Briarcrest, is senior-laden and is expected to be much improved.

And if there were betting lines for high school games, they'd be early underdogs against two or maybe even three teams on their non-league schedule. But make no mistake, it would be unwise to overlook these Owls.

"It's like taking 75 or 80 pieces of a puzzle and putting them all together," said longtime head coach Bobby Alston. "We have to figure out what we have and mesh the talents together. What can we do best?

"We're going to have to be like Gideon's warriors. We're all going to have to pull together and I'm confident that we will ... I think we could shock some people."

The defense will play a key role, said senior end Ogonna Oraedu.

"This season, we have a tough attitude," he said. "We know we're playing a lot of teams with big O-lines and good offenses but we feel like we can compete with anybody."

Oraedu (6-3, 220) had 30 tackles and six tackles for loss last year and forms a nice partnership with Josh Gray on the other end. Eli Christenbury brings plenty of experience as well.

Maurice Hampton â€” who already committed to play football and baseball at LSU as a 10th-grader â€” anchors the secondary and will be one of Shelby County's best. And the Owls have two budding stars at linebacker in sophomores Dorian Hopkins and Matthew Rhodes, who will see lots of action alongside returnees Evan Smith and Buchanan Dunavant.

"I think we have a chance to be good," Alston said. "We'll have a really fast and disruptive defense."

The biggest question on offense will be the line. This year's group is somewhat undersized by MUS standards but Alston said that's not necessarily a bad thing.

"We've had a good run where we had seven or eight (linemen) who played in college or are still playing," he said. "But I'm not worried about this group ... we haven't lost a JV or freshman game for the last two years.

"But what they can do impacts others. You can have great receivers but you can't get them the ball if the quarterback is on his butt."

Senior Stephen Regis is the quarterback who will need to remain upright. He ranked among the area's top passers last year, throwing for 2,428 yards and 17 scores while completing nearly 57 percent of his passes. It's vital, though, that he cut down on the interceptions; his 18 were the most among Shelby County's top 50 passers.

Bradley Foley returns as the featured running back after picking up 773 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns as a junior. The receiving corps could potentially be very good. Jalon Love caught 55 passes for 717 yards and seven touchdowns while Foley added 38 out of the backfield. Gray brings good hands and size (6-2, 218) to the tight end spot while Hampton figures to easily eclipse last season's eight catches and 80 yards.

"Our offensive line has a lot of potential and they've been making strides," Foley said. "And we've got guys starting to make plays at wide receiver ... we have a lot of talent."

A closer look at No. 6 MUS

Head coach: Bobby Alston (19th season)

Last yearâ€™s record: 7-4 (lost to Chattanooga Baylor in quarterfinals of Division 2-AA playoffs)

Region: Division 2-AA West

Players to watch: WR-DB Maurice Hampton (started both ways as a freshman; has the potential to be one of the Owlsâ€™ all-time greats); QB Stephen Regis (experienced starter who will need to cut down on last yearâ€™s 18 interceptions); RB Bradley Foley (not the biggest back but is a consistent producer); DE Ogonna Oraedu (had six tackles for loss in 2015)

Key games: Aug. 19 vs. Central at Crump (a good solid test to start the season); Sept. 16 vs. South Panola (always a big game when the Tigers come to town); Oct. 28 at CBHS (Brothers have won the last two meetings and donâ€™t think the Owls donâ€™t know that)

Did you know?: Last season marked the first time since 2010 that MUS failed to win at least eight games.

Edited August 17, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 17, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 5: Ridgeway planning to air it out this season

Nikki Boertman/The Commercial Appeal Ridgeway quarterback Tyrique Sandusky says, "I feel like we're going to have the best offense in the state" this season.

"We like where we're headed," said Ridgeway head football coach Duron Sutton. (Nikki Boertman/The Commercial Appeal File)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

It goes against his coaching preference. But Ridgeway's Duron Sutton is smart enough to know that you base your game plan on what your team can do as opposed to what it typically does.

So for 2016, the Roadrunners are planning to air it out a little. Or maybe a lot.

"It's not to say we don't have a very talented running back in (returning senior) Edwin Hendrix. But this year we're going to have to do it more by committee," Sutton said.

"We have a group of receivers that can be special ... and of course we have our quarterback Tyrique Sandusky back. He's going to be the fuel for where we're headed. It's not what I'm used to but we're excited."

From Jaylen Walton and Sheldon Dawson to Orlando Johnson and Earl Harrison, Ridgeway has produced some extremely productive running backs over the last few seasons. Last year's main man, Lilotis Walker, has graduated after running for 1,466 yards and scoring 20 touchdowns. Overall, the Roadrunners were seventh in the area in rushing yards per game (204.3).

But if Sutton is cautiously optimistic, Sandusky is downright ecstatic.

"I can't wait," said the 6-1, 190-pound senior. "This is the opportunity I've been waiting on for three years. Ridgeway has been Running Back U ... but this year we'll be able to do a little bit of everything.

"I feel like we're going to have the best offense in the state."

Sandusky threw for 1,490 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2015, numbers he should easily surpass. Vincent Taylor and Robert King averaged 17.5 and 16 yards per catch while Bernard Nelson and Kundarrius Taylor also will see plenty of action.

And the passing game got an extra boost with the addition of 6-6 tight end Brandon O'Dell, who transferred from region rival East.

The line is also experienced and talented. Tyrese Slocum is Sutton's mainstay; the 6-4, 306-pound senior has offers from Marshall and Southern Miss, among others. Duran Coleman (5-10, 290) is back and 6-6 sophomore Matthew Bedford has the potential to be a good one.

"We have some linemen with experience but not necessarily game experience," Sutton said.

Although last year's star linebacker Darron Johnson has graduated, the Roadrunners' defense should be fine. Sandusky is just as pumped about that side of the ball.

"We've got some dogs on defense," he said. "Coach (Jeremy) Stewart is the best defensive coach in the state. Prepare to be surprised by our defense."

The secondary should be one of the best in the area with Joseph Newberry, Noah Spann, Nick Green and Jadarrius Rose all returning for their senior seasons. Cervantes Reed, another senior, is very solid at defensive end.

Elijah West and Jamel Warren will fill the shoes of Johnson, who was a Pepsi Best of the Preps defensive player of the year finalist in 2015.

The schedule won't be easy. East will pose a serious threat in region play â€” the Mustangs won last year's game 20-18 â€” while the Roadrunners take on Whitehaven, MUS and Louisiana powerhouse West Monroe as part of the non-league schedule.

"Last season ended in a very disappointing fashion," said Sutton, referring to a first-round 4A playoff loss to Lexington that ended the year 6-5. "We're not used to being finished that early ... (but) we like where we're headed."

A closer look at No. 5 Ridgeway

Head coach: Duron Sutton (seventh year)

Last yearâ€™s record: 6-5 (lost to Lexington in first round of 4A playoffs)

Region: 8-4A

Players to watch: QB Tyrique Sandusky (returning starter is brimming with confidence heading into 2016); WR Vincent Taylor (led team with five touchdown catches last year; should improve on that); DB Joseph Newberry; DB Noah Spann (expect Ridgewayâ€™s secondary to be a no-fly zone with these two back there)

Key games: Sept. 9 vs. Whitehaven at Halle (should be circled on the calendar every season); Sept. 23 at MUS (Owls will be eager to avenge a disappointing performance in last yearâ€™s game); Oct. 28 vs. East at Melrose (barring major surprises, this will be for the region title)

Did you know?: Last yearâ€™s first-round playoff loss marked the first time since 2010 that the Roadrunners failed to advance to at least the quarterfinals.

Edited August 18, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 18, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 4: Trezevant aiming for another championship

Nikki Boertman/The Commercial Appeal Trezevant defensive end Tijuan Mason and running back Cordarrian Richardson, who have committed to Purdue and Clemson, respectively, bring talent that few other 2A teams can match.

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

Success hasn't changed the Trezevant High football team much. At least not yet. And coach Teli White plans on keeping it that way.

The Bears made their third BlueCross Bowl state championship game appearance pay off in 2015 as they won the 2A title with a 40-35 victory over Marion County to wrap up a 12-3 season. Trezevant was runner-up in 2014 and 2010 when it competed as a 4A school.

"It's pretty much the same," said White, now in his 10th season. "Our offseason was up and down ... but we're still preparing the same way, to play Trezevant football."

Added star running back Cordarrian Richardson, "We know we're going to have to come out real hard, a lot stronger than we did last year."

It was a heck of a ride for the Bears. Trezevant shocked many around the state with its regular-season victory over multi-time Division 2-AA state champion Nashville Ensworth before demolishing a very good Jackson Trinity Christian team, 52-14, in the state semis.

Now, the task for White is to focus on 2016, while keeping his players' feet firmly on the ground.

"Guys like Cordarrian, Tijuan Mason ... I'm trying to get them to realize that sometimes the game of football is bigger than you realize," he said.

"I tell them to remember when you were in the ninth grade or Little League and you played football just because you love football. Not because you're worried about this offer or that offer. Because the moment you can't perform, football is through with you."

Richardson and Mason â€” who have committed to Clemson and Purdue, respectively â€” bring talent that few other 2A teams, or larger ones for that matter, can match.

The 6-0, 225-pound Richardson finished runner-up in the Mr. Football voting after rushing for 2,239 yards and 18 touchdowns while adding five more scores on punt returns. He set a BlueCross Bowl record with 342 yards against Marion County and set the tone for the contest by carrying on all 11 plays of Trezevant's game-opening touchdown drive.

"He's so strong and he's got such great vision," said White. "He just hits it and â€” whoop! â€” he's going downhill."

Mason, who has bulked up to 220 pounds on a 6-5 frame, will be in the mix for 2A lineman of the year honors. The defensive end had a pair of sacks in the title game.

White is concerned about the graduation of Jutarian Malone and Best of the Preps defensive player of the year Justin Swift, who were the "brains" on both sides of the ball. But there's more than enough talent to make another run to Cookeville.

Twan Johnson, who played quarterback last year, will move to receiver and also play in the secondary. Marquell Dailey will play defensive end and defensive tackle and also will see action out of the backfield.

Antonio Nelson (6-3, 235) will anchor both lines with lots of help from brothers Antonio and Jalen Hopkins and Wanya Thomas.

The new quarterback will be Sammie Swing, a talented 6-1, 200-pounder who saw some action as a freshman in 2015.

"He just needs to get his confidence (up) and get some game experience," said White, before adding, "And he can always just hand it to Cordarrian."

A closer look at No. 4 Trezevant

Head coach: Teli White (10th season)

Last yearâ€™s record: 12-3 (won TSSAA 2A state championship)

Region: 7-2A

Players to watch: RB Cordarrian Richardson (Clemson commitment could very well be the stateâ€™s best back); DE Tijuan Mason (had two sacks in the state title game; committed to Purdue); OL-DL Antonio Nelson (strong, physical presence on both sides of the ball); QB Sammie Swing (new starter will have to adapt quickly)

Key games: Aug. 20 vs. KIPP at Crump, 8 p.m. (final game of the North Memphis Classic should be a good opening test for both teams); Oct. 7 vs. East at Fairgounds (another non-league test that should prepare the Bears for the postseason); Oct. 21 vs. Mitchell at Fairgrounds (Tigers are off probation and â€” on paper at least â€” look like Trezevantâ€™s biggest league test)

Did you know?: The Bears have won 12 or more games in a season four times since 2010.

Edited August 18, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 18, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 3: CBHS looking for big breakthrough

Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal Thomas McDaniel, entering his second season as head coach at CBHS, says, "The expectations are high as they should be."

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

Year two of the Thomas McDaniel era at CBHS isn't going to be much different from year one. The challenges are going to be plentiful and the expectations are going to be high.

Not that McDaniel and his team would have it any other way.

The Brothers finished 9-3 in 2015, beating archrival MUS for the second consecutive season before knocking off Nashville Ensworth in the state quarterfinals. The season ended with a loss to Montgomery Bell Academy in the semis â€” a game in which starting quarterback Keegan Voss broke his leg early.

So a good year overall. But CBHS hasn't won a state championship since 1999 and hasn't played for the title since 2005. McDaniel knows that nothing would please the school's rabid fan base more than to change both of those this year.

"The expectations are high as they should be," he said. "There was a learning curve last year; there are so many different elements, even like how to approach a Friday before the game.

"I have my way of doing things and I'm not saying it's the right way ... but you have to re-teach the kids. But we don't have to match anybody's expectations other than the ones of those in our locker room."

LINE 'EM UP

Success starts upfront and the Brothers are in very good shape on both sides of the ball.

"We're replacing four of five on offense but we scrimmaged against Ridgeway (and its big line) and they had a hard time stopping us," McDaniel said. "And the defensive line could be even better.

"In the games we lost last year (against Cincinnati LaSalle and St. Louis CBC) and even against Ensworth, we really didn't look the part. This year we will."

McDaniel says senior Jordon O'Neil (6-4, 300) has made huge strides in terms of both skill and attitude and he'll be joined by another returnee in center Conner Cremerius (6-3, 260). Junior Nick Cantu (6-3, 285) also will start after sitting out last season after transferring from St. George's, along with 6-6, 275-pound Ryan Winkel, who arrives via Knoxville.

Patrick Healy (6-0, 265) and Bryce Bush (5-10, 243) started part time as freshmen and all year as sophomores; McDaniel says both have all-state potential. The defensive ends will be sophomores, but Bill Norton (6-5, 265), Jacob Likes (6-3, 225) and Christian James (6-3, 220) certainly look the part.

"We're kind of young at the ends and we'll need to mature," said Healy. "But I think the lines are going to be a big attribute. We want to be the best we can be and just dominate every game, every quarter."

A big part of CBHS' success on offense last year was to just hand it to Austin Lee and get out of the way. Lee (1,591 yards, 25 touchdowns) has graduated and McDaniel will be looking at a trio of backs â€” juniors Dominick Garrett and Nick Montesi and sophomore Will Ruth â€” to fill the void.

A healthy Voss under center will be a huge plus; he ran for 674 yards and six touchdowns while throwing for 507 and four more and was intercepted just once all season. He'll throw to a good group featuring returnees Connor DeFreece, Zach Hamlet and Gray Woodmansee and Arlington transfer Ryan Whittaker.

"It feels a lot better," said Voss of his leg. "For the first three months I couldn't even walk. You realize you need a leg when you can't have it."

Ryan Thomas makes the move from Mike linebacker to Will linebacker and will be starting for the third straight season. Safeties Jared Fowlkes and Reau Folk both started part time last year and are very physical despite being on the small side. Walter Soefker also will see plenty of action.

A closer look at No. 3 CBHS

Head coach: Thomas McDaniel (second year)

Last yearâ€™s record: 9-3 (lost to Montgomery Bell Academy in Division 2-AA semifinals)

Region: Division 2-AA West

Players to watch: QB Keegan Voss (healthy and ready to go after a serious leg injury against MBA); LB Ryan Thomas (will contend for postseason defensive player of the year honors); DT Patrick Healy; DT Bryce Bush (bookends on the D-line with size, experience and the mindset to dominate)

Key games: Aug. 19 vs. White Station (last yearâ€™s game was a good one; a victory here will get the season off to a great start); Sept. 30 at Briarcrest (improved Saints will have this one circled); Oct. 28 vs. MUS (can the Brothers make it three in a row over their biggest rival?)

Did you know?: CBHS has won 16 straight games against Shelby County competition. The last local team to defeat the Brothers was Briarcrest, 21-19, on Oct. 18, 2013.

Edited August 18, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 19, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 2: Is this Cordovaâ€™s year to break through?

Cordova offensive linemen run through blocking schemes during preseason practice. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

Cordova defensive back Ahmand Richardson takes on a blocker during a preseason practice. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

Cordova defensive lineman Quinton Bohanna (middle) works on rushing a blocker during a preseason practice. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

Cordova head coach Anthony Jones during preseason practice (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

If there's ever going to be a season Cordova takes its place among the state's elite 6A schools, this is the one.

Coach Anthony Jones' team opened 2015 with seven straight victories before a loss to visiting Wilson Central in the first round of the playoffs. Not the best finish, but if Cordova can put the lessons learned into practice, it'll go a lot farther than the first round this season.

"It was real disappointing," said defensive back Ahmad Richardson. "We had some seniors that told us we had a chance to win state. But we learned. We have to finish through plays and get things done with a purpose."

Said Jones, now in his fourth season, "There were lots of growing pains last year. These seniors came in with me four years ago and we've experienced a lot of ups and downs.

"We're taking the expectations. But the guys have done a great job staying grounded and staying humble."

Cordova's strength is a defense that allowed just 215.5 yards per game last season, seventh in Shelby County. And the strength of the defense is the line, which features not one, but two, Division 1 commits.

Braylon Brown (6-4, 260) will play at the University of Memphis while Quinton Bohanna, a 6-4, 280-pounder who was named all-state as a sophomore and as a junior, is headed to Kentucky. Those two are the stars but Jones reserves special praise for undersized nose tackle Trevion Ross.

"If not for his height, he'd be a Division 1 player," Jones said. "It's just tough for a 5-9, 220-pound lineman."

Richardson, who has started all four seasons, is back to anchor the secondary while Jeremiah Fordham and Tracey Williams, who only played in five games last year due to a lower back injury, are two solid linebackers.

"I think we have a shot to be one of the best â€” if not the best â€” defenses in the state," said Bohanna. "Shoot high."

And Brown said, "It's hard (dealing with expectations) but that's just part of being mature big boys. We're just trying to stay level headed ... we know guys on our team have offers but we have to play every game like we're underdogs."

There aren't as many stars on the offensive side of the ball but there is more than enough talent to get the job done. Jones will want to see better execution, though; turnovers hurt the Wolves in their three losses.

Devin Coleman returns for his third year as the starting quarterback; in 2015 he threw for 2,214 yards and 18 touchdowns while completing nearly 60 percent of his passes. Harold Lacy, another three-year starter, is back at running back where he should improve on last year's totals of 637 yards and 12 touchdowns. Newcomers Nathan Bonner and Cameron Brown will also play.

The receiver corps took some hits but Edward Johnson (28 catches, three touchdowns) is solid and Jones is confident senior Shemar Collier and junior Travis Green will flourish in larger roles. The line is big, physical and experienced.

"We have guys that will do well when we get them the ball in spots," said Jones. "We just need Devin to be the point guard of the football team."

The schedule looks favorable too. What will likely be the three toughest region games â€” Arlington, White Station and Whitehaven â€” are all at home on a newly-turfed field, although the Wolves have replaced last year's Week 1 opponent, now-closed Carver, with a very good East team that opens the year ranked 10th in the Dandy Dozen.

"That one's been keeping me awake at nights," Jones said.

A closer look at No. 2 Cordova

Head coach: Anthony Jones (fourth year)

Last yearâ€™s record: 8-3 (lost to Wilson Central first round of 6A playoffs.)

Region: 4-6A

Players to watch: DL Braylon Brown and DL Quinton Bohanna (all-state caliber linemen committed to Memphis and Kentucky, respectively); DB Ahmad Richardson (rare four-year starter in secondary); RB Harold Lacy (scored 12 touchdowns in 2015).

Key games: Aug. 19 vs. East (a good performance in opener could send Wolves on their way); Oct. 7 vs. White Station (loss to Spartans began late-season tailspin in 2015); Oct. 28 vs. Whitehaven (winner will likely be the region champ; better get there early).

Did you know?: The Wolves are playing East in their season opener because last yearâ€™s Week 1 opponent, Carver, has been closed.

2016 Preseason Dandy Dozen

12. St. George's

11. Harding

10. East

9. White Station

8. Covington

7. Lausanne

6. MUS

5. Ridgeway

4. Trezevant

3. Christian Brothers

2. Cordova

1. Whitehaven

Edited August 19, 2016 by kwc

kwc · August 19, 2016

Dandy Dozen No. 1: Whitehaven hungry for a return to state championship game

August 17, 2016 - Whitehaven head coach Rodney Saulsberry (middle) during practice. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

August 17, 2016 - Whitehaven linebacker Aubrey Miller (middle) works on his blocking during field goal unit drills during practice. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

August 17, 2016 - Whitehaven running back Kylan Watkins works on foot drills during a recent practice. (Mark Weber/The Commercial Appeal)

By John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal

The difference between a trip to the state championship game and a trip back home can come down to the smallest of details. And nobody knows that better than Whitehaven.

The Tigers ended one game short of Cookeville in 2015, losing at eventual state champ Ravenwood to end the year 12-2. That's a record that just about any other team will gladly take but for Whitehaven, it means they didn't get the job done.

That Ravenwood loss was especially frustrating; Whitehaven dominated defensively watched as Crews Holt kicked a 55-yard field goal and Chris Rowland returned a kickoff for a score to propel the Raptors to a 20-13 victory.

The takeaway for head coach Rodney Saulsberry and his troops?

"All three phases of the game matter," he said. "You have to convert in those crucial situations ... capitalize on those moments.

"We try to replicate those situations as well as we can in practice mentally and physically but it's different with live game action. But our off season was great ... we have a lot of guys that are more physically mature."

There are plenty of physically mature players on the defensive side of the ball, which has the potential to the best in recent memory. And as Saulsberry says, it starts with the front seven.

Whitehaven has two Division 1 linebackers in Aubrey Miller (Missouri) and J'Len Smith (Air Force). They'll be joined by talented veteran Vontavious Thacker and Memphis will be introduced to Bryson Eason, an enormously gifted 6-2, 215 freshman.

That group will play behind a line that features returning starters Tyler Walton and Shabar Wilson and nose tackle Tyler Hunter.

Jabril Malone, a rare-four year starter at Whitehaven, is the leader in the secondary. Deniro Tillman and Joshua Gray will try to help fill the big hole left by the graduation of Donte Vaughn and Rodney Saulsberry Jr. while newcomer Rayshad Williams is a quality addition.

"I think we're going to have the top defense in the whole state," said Miller. "I'm an energy guy and we're going to bring that energy. We've put in that work."

Added Coach Saulsberry, "Again, it's going to be the small things ... but they can't win if they can't score."

Whitehaven should be just as solid on offense, thanks to the return of Kylan Watkins. The senior ranked third in Shelby County with an average of 157.9 yards per game and finished the year with 2,211 yards and 21 touchdowns.

"Kylan makes life easy," Coach Saulsberry said.

Watkins will be spelled by Chris Witherspoon and Keyshawn Lewis while the Tigers have a three-headed monster at fullback in Tyrone Cason, Wilson and Hunter.

They'll operate behind a line has plenty of starting experience in seniors William Whitfield, Anthony Geter and Darrick Jackson. Walton, who goes 6-4, 295, will also play and Saulsberry had special praise for Michael Clifton.

And waiting in the wings are what Saulsberry quite accurately calls "two very large human beings" in Joseph Pegues (6-4, 350) and James Jones (6-6, 400).

"With Tyler Walton and Michael Clifton coming in we're fully loaded on the line," said Watkins. "They're all seniors and they have great chemistry."

The only question mark is at quarterback where Austin Harris and Lesley Mosby waged a good battle in camp to see who would succeed the now-graduated Darrion Cole. Whoever gets the job will have some good targets in returnees Markevion Johnson, C.J. Biggins, KaDedrick Richardson and promising sophomore Cermontae Hamilton, whose nickname is Megatron in honor of his similarities to former Detroit Lions star Calvin Johnson.

"We've been working hard," said Watkins. "All off season in the weight room, running steps ... I'm not too worried."

A closer look at No. 1 Whitehaven

Head coach: Rodney Saulsberry (13th season)

Last yearâ€™s record: 12-2 (lost to Ravenwood in 6A semifinals)

Region: 4-6A

Players to watch: LB Aubrey Miller (all-energy all the time); LB Jâ€™Len Smith (Air Force-bound senior who forms great tandem with Miller); RB Kylan Watkins (ranked third in Shelby County at nearly 158 yards per game); DB Jabril Malone (a rarity at Whitehaven, a four-year starter)

Key games: Sept. 9 vs. Ridgeway at Halle (always one of the best games on the prep calendar); Sept. 30 vs. White Station at Fairgrounds; Oct. 28 at Cordova (Tigersâ€™ two toughest league games come away from home; win these and theyâ€™ll be in good shape)

Did you know?: With a record of 123-30, Rodney Saulsberry leads all active Shelby County coaches in winning percentage (.804).