SPORTS

H.S. FOOTBALL: Derek Rang getting used to Dresden

Brandon Shields

DRESDEN – Derek Rang got an idea of what he was in for when he took over the football program at Dresden High School in April. But he’s figured out what he’s got going for him and the program and what the Lions are up against in the months of spring ball and summer work since then.

“The first thing I had to do was get to know the kids and the assistant coaches,” Rang said. “Then from there it was figuring out in practice what kids could do what and putting them in the best situation for them and the team to succeed.”

Rang is an East Tennessee guy, he played high school ball at Class 6A juggernaut Maryville then stayed in town to play college ball at Maryville College. But Rang said he’s getting used to how things are on this end of the state, and he likes the competition he perceives throughout each district.

“In East Tennessee, there are a few teams here and there that can compete for each district,” Rang said. “Over here, things seem to be a bit more evened out, and that’s good and bad – bad because each district game is that much more competitive and good because hopefully you don’t have to work very hard to motivate the guys to play on Friday.”

Dillon Jolley is the main guy back up front anchoring both sides of the line for the Lions. The backfield took a hit during the offseason when Dresser Winn, who was the Lions’ freshman quarterback last year, opted to transfer to Briarcrest in Memphis and play baseball.

Rang said he likes what he sees out of the Lions who will be playing this year.

“They’re working hard to get better,” Rang said. “I haven’t changed much schematically, so they know what they’re doing already.”

Brandon Shields, 425-9751

Dresden Lions

• 2013 record: 7-4

• Rang has experience coaching on both sides of the ball in the spread offense and 3-4 defense, which is what Dresden has run the past few years.

• The Lions’ game at Westview will be the official high school football opener for West Tennessee, as they will play on Thursday Aug. 21 at UT Martin.