Kickoff 2010

KICKOFF 2010

Inside: Schedules Rosters Photos Analysis

A special publication of

Advertiser The Clanton

The lineup

Local rivalries not so friendly

22

Records of series involving local teams

666

Offense as a science

2

Strategies vary among local teams

Team analyses

4 8 12 16 26 30 34

Billingsley Chilton Co. Isabella

444

Jemison Maplesville Thorsby Verbena

W

What makes the offense run

41

Area’s top offensive playmakers

Friday night experience

45

Group photos of local bands, cheerleaders

New look for a new year

elcome to another season of high school football! This magazine should find you at the best time of the year, when no team has lost a game yet and players, coaches and fans are still dreaming about the possibilities for the season to come.

For at least a couple of local teams, Billingsley and Isabella, much of that hope centers around new coaches—new but not unfamiliar. Joe Nettles, who in 1996 led Chilton County to its only unbeaten regular season, returns to the area to coach Billingsley. Isabella, Dawkins meanwhile, hired a former coach, Scott Booth, to try to recreate some past magic. Booth coached the Mustangs to the state semifinals in 2002, thanks in part to his unconventional “Notre Dame box” offense.

In an age when many high school teams—including several locally—are spreading players across the field and throwing around the football, Booth brings back what many would consider (though the coach would disagree with you) an old-fashioned offense.

Nettles, too, will implement a system that hearkens back to football teams of old: the triple option.

The arrival of these offenses is enough to make one wonder just what it is about the systems that makes coaches so loyal to them. So, the coaches were asked that question. Some cited the way a particular formation forces a defense to line, for some an effective offense is about motion and deception, and for others the most important consideration is the ease in which

an offense can be taught to the players. An analysis of the offenses employed by local teams is the cover story of this magazine and begins on the next page.

You might learn a thing or two by looking at those X’s and O’s (well, maybe just O’s), but remember that every coach interviewed agreed on one point: the most important aspect of any offense, or team for that matter, are the guys wearing the uniforms.

Good players can make a bad system work, and not so good players can slow down even the most well thought out attack. So, we featured several local players with full-page photographs meant to demonstrate what is needed to make an offense—any offense—move the chains and light up the scoreboard.

Also, check out the center spread on pages 24-25.

The fact that every local team, regardless of classification, can rightfully claim a rivalry against any other local team is what makes football in the area unique.

We’ve listed the series records of each team against every local opponent, which will no doubt serve as a source of pride for some teams and, for others, as motivation for upcoming games.

Lastly, you might have noticed by now that this football preview has been produced in a different format, a magazine instead of newsprint as in the past. We thought a magazine would better serve you, the reader, offering something that can be held onto and referenced throughout the season.

As always, we’re glad you allowed us to be part of your high school football experience. See you at the games!

– Stephen Dawkins

Stories by Stephen Dawkins Feature photos by Jon Goering Practice photos by Stephen Dawkins Kickoff 2010 is published by Clanton Newspapers, Inc. P.O. Box 1379, Clanton, AL 45046 205.755.5747

The science of mo Offensive strategies vary among local teams

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he concept of the game of football is simple: The team with possession of the ball tries to move it forward, ultimately into the end zone. The strategies on the best way to advance the ball, though, are complex and diverse. One would need only to watch a few local teams to understand there’s no one agreed upon way an offense should work.

For several years now, the trend in high

school football has been toward the spread offense, in which quarterbacks drop into the shotgun formation, and receivers and linemen stretch a defense to create space to catch the ball and running lanes for backs. Chilton County, Jemison, Maplesville and Thorsby all run offenses based on these principles—specifically, based on the system created by former Troy University and Auburn University offensive coordinator Tony Franklin.

Franklin published his system, taught it at seminars and

Thorsby is one of four local teams that utilize a spread offense.

Other local strategies include the option at Billingsley, the Notre Dame Box at Isabella and the double wing at Verbena.

moving the football served as a consultant for teams willing to pay.

But there are variations in what the local teams do. In its most common formation, Maplesville and Thorsby put their fullback directly behind the quarterback, who’s in the shotgun (Figure 1-A), similar to a formation popularized by the University of Nevada and called the “pistol.” The teams also use a halfback lined up as a slot receiver. The difference is that Maplesville’s “Y” receiver lines up away from the offensive line in the slot (Figure 1-A), while Thorsby’s “Y” is often in a three-point stance next to the offensive line, like a traditional tight end.

No local team has enjoyed as much success with the spread offense as Maplesville. The Red Devils have averaged about 37 points per game over the last six seasons—and, most importantly, the team has averaged almost nine wins per season.

“We’ve had different types of quarterbacks—we’ve had the guys

that could run, and we’ve had guys that could throw,” coach Brent Hubbert said about the system’s versatility. “We’ve had personnel that would benefit in that offense, but we understand that we might not always have the personnel and it would just benefit us more to line up in the ‘I’ and go three yards and a cloud of dust. It’s a fun offense--that might be the most important thing. Everybody likes to throw and catch. If they’re having fun, they’re going to have more success.”

Both Chilton County and Jemison split two running backs (a fullback and a halfback) on either side of the quarterback, and line up the “Y” like a slot receiver (Figure 1-B). “The main thing that formation does is, that tight end being flexed, a linebacker has to move out,” Abbott said about forcing a defense to play

OFFENSE continued on page 40

Billingsley

Bears 2-minute drill Class 2A Region 4 Coach Joe Nettles (Pine Hill, 1966), 228153-4 in 35 seasons Assistants Shunn Bailey: wide receivers/ linebackers Chris Baker: defensive coordinator J.T. Lawrence Tyson McLean: running backs/ secondary Todd Reece Nathan Thompson 2010 schedule 8/27 Dallas Co. 9/3 Isabella* 9/10 at Vincent* 9/17 Thorsby* 9/24 at Maplesville 10/1 at R.C. Hatch* 10/8 American Christian* 10/15 at Francis Marion* 10/22 Central-Hayneville* 10/29 at Verbena *-region game Key game American Christian. Billingsley should improve as the year goes along, and a home upset over American Christian would be a statement.

2009 results (4-6, 4-4 region) Maplesville* (L, 35-0) Sunshine* (W, 33-0) at John Essex* (W, 50-18) at Autaugaville* (L, 14-12) Linden* (L, 39-0) at Akron* (W, 43-0) A.L. Johnson* (W, 6-0) at Holy Spirit* (L, 30-19) Parrish (L, 42-12) at Dallas Co. (L, 28-19) *-region game

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Nettles will try to coach Bears back to among state’s elite

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he post-James Carter era hasn’t gone smoothly for Billingsley. Carter won 162 games and two state championships in 22 seasons, but the school is now on its third coach in four seasons since Carter’s retirement following the 2006 season. The good news is that, with this hire, Billingsley found a coach who is somewhat of a legend in his own right.

Joe Nettles has won 228 games in 35 seasons, including seasons of 10 wins or more with Class 5A Chilton County in 1996 (the school’s best sea-

much of fall camp running with the first team, though there are other possibilities at the position, including junior Jimmie Lanier and senior Ted Goodson.

The fullback will also receive his share of carries in Nettles’ offense. Candidates are junior Reggie Browder, who Nettles said possesses lots of talent but just needs to push himself to improve, and sophomore Matt Prebula. “Both of them are good, strong backs,” Nettles said. “We’re going to give the ball to the fullbacks.”

Receivers Junior A.J. Tyus brings experience to the flank-

On the offense Nettles’ offense last season at Washington County scored an average of 28. 3 points per game as the Bulldogs went 10-3.

Billingsley, meanwhile, reached the 20-point mark only three times all season. son ever), Class 4A Winfield in 2001 and Class 2A Washington County last year. The Bears have the talent to earn Nettles his fourth double-digit win season, but the question will be how much the instability of the past four years might hinder the team’s progress.

Quarterbacks Nettles would like to use an option attack, but how much of that Billingsley actually runs will depend on the quarterbacks, which include sophomore Garrett Price and junior Devon Hardy. “We’re not going to ask them to do too much, put it in their hands to win or lose,” Nettles said.

Offensive backs The reason Billingsley is likely to run the option no matter the quarterback situation is to take advantage of the team’s skilled running backs.

Freshman Devan Davis, an elusive runner, spent

er position. He will share time with sophomore Brady Edwards. Split ends will include junior Andrew Dudley, senior Dillon Reed and junior Trey Tyus. Receivers love catching the football, but Nettles said it’s important they understand that, in the option offense, a good block is often as important as any reception. “They need to learn to block,” Nettles said. “If he can’t block, he can’t play.”

Looking for playing time at tight end will be junior Carlos Caver and junior Nick Messer.

Offensive line Sophomore Adam Goodin, sophomore Jason Brookshire and 8th grader Riley Tindol should all see time at offensive tackle. Guards will include junior Octavis Harris and junior Justin BlanCarlos Caver terrorizes opponents as a linebacker on defense and as a tight end on offense.

First-year Billingsley coach Joe Nettles watches player practice tackling during practice.

kenship, and senior Brittan Stange and 8th grader Jeffrey Carroll will play center.

“Right now, [offensive line] is the weak spot because they don’t have any experience,” Nettles said. Harris is a returning starter, but “it’s new to him, too, because the blocking schemes are different,” the coach continued. “They’ll struggle with it for a while.”

Defensive line Justin Blankenship, Octavis Harris and Britt Stange are the likely starters in Billingsley’s 3-4 look. Nettles said it’s usually easier for defenders to make the transition to a new scheme because the idea remains the same. “Defense is getting after somebody’s butt, is what that is,” Nettles said.

Linebackers Reggie Browder, Devin Davis, Nick Messer, 8th grader Jordan Ousley and 8th grader Zack Paulene are competing for the two outside linebacker spots. There’s also a logjam at middle linebacker with Carlos Caver, sophomore Tyler McLean, Matt Prebula and A.J. Tyus competing for playing time.

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Mims Field “We’ve got a little more depth on defense than we do on offense,” Nettles said.

Nettles said in early August. “We’ve still got a lot of work to do.”

Defensive backs Cornerbacks candidates are Ted Goodson, sophomore Torry Green, Jimmy Lanier and Devin Tyus. At safety, watch Brady Edwards, Jimmy Lanier and Garrett Price.

“They have the potential to be pretty good,”

Special teams Ted Goodson will likely handle placekicking duties, and Garrett Price could punt.

Nettles said the return game was still up in the air but said Goodson would have a good chance to contribute here, as well.

Roster 1-A.J. Tyus-Jr. 2-Jimmie Lanier-Jr. 3-Torrey Green-So. 4-Reggie Browder-Jr. 6-Devon Hardy-So. 7-Garrett Price-So. 8-Dalton Davis-8th 9-Zack Paulene-8th 11-Trey Tyus-Jr. 12-Nick Messer-Jr. 13-Devan Davis-Fr. 14-Andrew Dudley-Jr. 15-Tyler McLean-So. 20-Alfreddie Caver-Fr. 21-Jordan Ousley-8th 22-Dillon Reed-Sr. 28-Ted Goodson-Sr. 30-Abram Dudley-Fr. 33-Cody McCurdy-Fr. 38-Rashard Caver-8th 42-Telvin Tyus-Fr. 44-Keyjuan Goodson-8th

45-Tommy Williams-Fr. 50-Matt Prebula-So. 51-Luther Tyus-So. 52-Codie McGilliard-8th 53-Dustin Headley-8th 54-Carlos Caver-Jr. 55-Octavis Harris-Jr. 57-Isaac Green-7th 59-Brittan Stange-Sr.

61-Justin Blankenship-Jr. 62-Jeffrey Carroll-8th 65-Jason Brookshire-Sr. 66-Brian Dandridge-8th 67-Jordan Brown-Fr. 68-Michael Barrett-8th 70-Darrius Miller-Jr. 72-Jacob Carver-7th 73-Kendarius Waters-Fr.

74-Norman Laister-Sr. 75-Cody Smitherman-Fr. 77-Riley Tindol-8th 79-Adam Goodin-So. 80-Brady Edwards-So. 82-Hunter Neely-Fr. 85-Quinton Hodge-So. 88-Jaytarious Steele-7th 94-Timothy McFarland-Fr.

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Chilton County

Tigers 2-minute drill Class 5A, Region 3 Coach Brian Carter (Billingsley, 1996), 8-14 in 2 seasons Assistants Kess Cottingham: offensive line Everette Lewis: defensive line Matt Maddox: secondary Deon Timmons: defensive line Josey Shannon: receivers Clark Watley: offensive line Cain Young: linebackers 2010 schedule 8/26 Jemison 9/3 at Demopolis* 9/10 Brookwood* 9/17 at Greenville* 9/24 at Marbury 10/1 at Selma* 10/8 Paul Bryant* 10/15 Wilcox Central* 10/22 at Tuscaloosa Central* 10/29 Shelby Co. *-region game Key game At Selma. The Tigers will be playing their fourth away game in five weeks. If they steal a win, they’ll go into the homestretch of the schedule with momentum.

2009 results (5-6, 3-3 region) at Jemison (W, 19-12) Demopolis* (L, 21-14) at Carver-Montgomery* (L, 35-3) at Gardendale (L, 23-14) Tallassee (W, 43-36) at Monroe Co.* (W, 21-14) Selma* (W, 14-6) at Wilcox Central* (W, 35-6) Greenville* (L, 28-21) Bibb Co. (L, 32-26) at Briarwood, first round playoffs (L, 39-14) *-region game

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Everything in place for CCHS— except a quarterback

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hilton County improved from 3 wins to 5 wins from year one to year two of coach Brian Carter’s tenure, but the Tigers will be hard pressed to make a similar jump in year three because of the departure of quarterback Taylor Hughes, who carried the offense, leading the team in passing and rushing yards.

It might take two quarterbacks to replace Hughes, but this year the burden will fall on a defense that returns nine starters. “We’ve got a lot of experience returning; we’ve just got to

Also in the mix is another senior, Chris Felder.

Felder started the Tigers’ first game of the 2009 season, against Jemison, but was injured on a kickoff return. Agee came into the game and never relinquished his hold on the position, averaging 6.5 yards per carry and 85 yards per game. Felder will also play receiver.

Receivers A host of new faces will line up at receiver: seniors Dalton Harris and Jacob McKinney and sophomores Chase Baker, Brett Gandy and Vadall Morrow. Seniors Anthony Atchison and Montel Wilkes are the only returning players with experience, and theirs is limited.

On the offense Forrest Knight and classmate Cameron Cummings will have to make up the production lost when former quarterback Taylor Hughes graduated. Hughes led the team in passing and rushing yards. turn that into finishing games,” Carter said.

Quarterbacks Two sophomores, each bringing a different skill set to the table, will try to duplicate Hughes’ production. Cameron Cummings played receiver last season and is a talented runner. Forrest Knight, meanwhile, started at quarterback for the junior varsity team and is a more gifted passer.

“Both of them had a really good spring and summer,” Carter said. “They’re both still competing for the job. I think it makes them both work harder, knowing there’s a job to be won.”

Offensive backs Unlike quarterback, Chilton County fans know exactly what they will get from the team’s running backs. Seniors Joseph Looney, at F-back, and J.J. Agee, at halfback, were the regular starters last year.

“Receiver is probably one of the least experienced positions on the team,” Carter said, but there is a silver lining. “They know the position is wide open, so they know they can get some playing time if they keep getting better. I’ve been pleased with the way we’ve looked so far.”

Offensive line The offensive front, meanwhile, will be the most experienced unit on the team. Seniors Blake Norman (right tackle) and Brandon Baker (left tackle), junior Delondre DeJarnett (right guard) and sophomore Anthony Neece (left guard) are all returning starters. Carter was so confident in this group that he moved another returning starter, senior Jenson Gore, to defense.

Cameron Cummings played receiver last season but now brings his speed and athleticism to the quarterback position.

Senior Heath Bennett and sophomore Spencer Watley will compete for the starting assignment at center.

“I think having experience on the offensive line is as important as any position,” Carter said. “They’re the ones that make or break your team. They don’t get a lot of glory, but you definitely can tell when they’re playing well and when they’re not.”

Defensive line The Tigers should be stout on the defensive front, too, and this group is possibly the deepest on the team. “That creates a lot of competition every day in practice,” Carter said. Senior Dariel Maul and junior Chase Brown are returning starters at defensive tackle, as is senior Chace Lucas at defensive end.

Jenson Gore and junior Blake Jenkins will also play defensive end, and juniors Isaac Ford and Matt Thomas will provide depth at defensive tackle. “Those defensive linemen play with [position coach Deon Timmons’] personality--high energy—which is really what you need down there in the trenches.

Linebackers The graduated Cameron Minor led CCHS in tackles last season with 105, but No. 2 on that list, with 98, was middle linebacker Dylan Jackson—and he’s back for his senior

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Tiger Stadium season. Jackson also serves as a kind of quarterback of the defense, receiving calls from the sideline and making sure his teammates line up correctly. “We put a lot on him, and he does a great job for us,” Carter said.

Sophomore Richard Hilliard is also a returning starter. Senior Colby Bernier and sophomore Ryan Baker will also play.

Defensive backs Continuing a theme for the Chilton defense, much experience is back in the secondary—all four starters from last year, in fact. Anthony Atchison and senior Quentin Underwood will again start the two cornerback positions. Returning at safety will

be Jacob McKinney and fellow senior Alan Lucas. “We’re really looking for a solid year out of that group of guys,” Carter said.

Also seeing playing time will be senior Will Cooper and sophomores Kenneth Allison and Cruz Edwards.

Special teams Senior Zach Headley punted last season, and he will try to assume placekicking duties this year as well. He’ll have competition, though, from senior Zach McCraney.

The Tigers have a multitude of options for returning kicks and punts, including J.J. Agee, Anthony Atchison, Chris Felder, Jacob McKinney and Montel Wilkes.

Roster 1-Chris Felder-Sr. 2-Chase Baker-So. 3-Richard Hilliard-So. 4-Vadall Morrow-So. 5-J.J. Agee-Sr. 6-Forrest Knight-So. 7-Quentin Underwood-Sr. 8-Ryan Baker-So. 9-Jacob McKinney-Sr. 10-Cameron CummingsSo.

11-Anthony Atchison-Sr. 12-Dylan Jackson-Sr. 15-Kip Cleckley-Jr. 16-Dalton Harris-Sr. 18-Montel Wilkes-Sr. 20-Alan Lucas-Sr. 21-Josh Easterling-So. 22-Zac Burnett-So. 23-Joe Looney-Sr. 24-Michael Seaton-So. 25-Allen White-Sr. 26-Will Cooper-Sr. 27-Tyler Jones-Sr. 28-Kenneth Allison-So.

30-Austin Rossi-So. 31-Cruz Edwards-So. 32-Jermink Lykes-So. 35-Jose Gonzalez-Sr. 40-Ben Haye-So. 41-Matt Thomas-Jr. 42-Chance Brittnell-So. 43-Nelson Builder-Sr. 44-Chace Lucas-Sr. 45-Dyquan Floyd-Jr. 50-Brittan Scruggs-So. 51-Keelon Reed-So. 52-Colby Bernier-Sr. 54-Blake Norman-Sr.

56-Britton Powell-Sr. 57-Heath Bennett-Sr. 58-Isaac Ford-Jr. 59-Zach Headley-Sr. 60-Dariel Maul-Sr. 61-Nic Looney-So. 62-Jenson Gore-Sr. 63-Brandon Baker-Sr. 64-Taylor Hudson-So. 65-Jacob Littleton-So. 67-Anthony Neece-So. 68-Ty Moore-So. 69-Jesse Moses-So. 70-Chase Brown-Jr.

71-Nate Tompkins-Sr. 73-Logan Baker-Jr. 75-Murphy Wilson-Jr. 76-Luke Smith-Sr. 77-Spencer Watley-So. 78-Justin Adams-Jr. 79-Delondre DeJarnett-Jr. 82-Brett Gandy-Sr. 84-Jarvis Rogers-Jr. 85-Blake Jenkins-Jr. 86-Frank Bonagura-Jr. 87-Zach McCraney-Sr. 88-Dakota Martin-Sr. 90-Nicolas Todd-Jr.

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Isabella

Mustangs 2-minute drill Class 2A, Region 4 Coach Scott Booth (Central-Tuscaloosa, 1984), 35-61 in 8 seasons Assistants Jared Day Mike Jones Rex Littleton Geoffrey Lockhart Landon Mims Mike Ratliff Clay Shearer 2010 schedule 8/27 Coosa Central 9/3 at Billingsley* 9/10 Thorsby* 9/17 at American Christian* 9/24 at Verbena 10/1 Central-Hayneville* 10/8 at Vincent* 10/15 R.C. Hatch* 10/22 at Francis Marion* 10/29 Shades Mtn. Christian *-region game Key game Thorsby. The winner of this rivalry game will have a good shot at a playoff berth.

2009 results (2-8, 1-6 region) Jefferson Christian (W, 57-6) at Fultondale* (L, 28-6) Vincent* (L, 48-6) at American Christian* (L, 38-14) Verbena (L, 32-6) Pickens Co.* (L, 52-6) at Hale Co.* (L, 36-15) Thorsby* (L, 32-30) at Shades Mtn. Christian* (W, 29-6) at Lamar Co. (L, 48-0) *-region game

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Fans hope Booth’s second stop at IHS as successful as first

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cott Booth returns to Isabella, and both coach and school hope he can recreate the magic from 2002, Isabella’s most successful season ever. The Mustangs made the semifinals of the state playoffs that year but haven’t been close since. Booth left following the season to coach Paul W. Bryant High School in his native Tuscaloosa and now brings back his “Notre Dame box” offense to a program that ended a 23game losing streak and made the second round

In this offense, there’s a lot of footwork to learn, but they’re catching on.”

Offensive backs Isabella will utilize a fullback, a blocking back and a wing back in a variety of different formations and for a variety of different assignments.

Senior Brandon Green and Demetrius Henry and sophomore Mason Pate will all see time at fullback, the primary ball carrying position. Pate will also be in the mix at blocking back, joining eighth grader Austin Parker and sophomore Caleb Freeman. Senior Blake Edwards, junior Nathan Smith and sophomore Trae Calfee have

On the offense In 2002, Booth’s last season at Isabella, the Mustangs averaged scoring 36.2 points per game using the Notre Dame Box. IHS even put up 46-point and 48-point games in the state playoffs. of the playoffs in three seasons under previous coach Lanny Jones but won just two games last year. The Mustangs lost their top passer, rusher and tackler from a year ago, but should improve on that 2-win mark if they can adjust to Booth’s offense.

Quarterback Senior Austin Haigler has proved to be a good fit for Booth’s offense. Haigler, who was one of Isabella’s running backs last season, has enough size (he stands 6’3” and weighs 225 pounds) and speed to give opposing defenses fits. “In our offense, the quarterbacks is going to run it a lot,” Booth said. “That’s going to add a dimension to what we’re going to do.”

Backing up Haigler will be eighth grader Tyler Smith. “They’ve picked up on it pretty well,” Booth said about his quarterbacks learning a new offense. “It’s not an easy position to learn.

been playing the wing back position in practice.

“We don’t have any blinding speed, but we’ve got some quickness and they’re pretty physical,” Booth said of his backs.

Receivers Isabella’s basic offensive formation will include a tight end on either side of the line and nobody split out wide, but that could change on any given play, with either or both tight ends lining up more like traditional wide receivers. Booth said, ideally, the same group of Mustangs will be effective as tight ends or split ends. “We’re trying to work it so we can play with the same personnel,” he said. “The less substitution we can do, the better I like it because, when your subbing Austin Haigler’s 6’3”, 225-pound frame is ideal for Booth’s offense, which requires the quarterback to run the ball often.

guys in and out, the defense has a chance to see your personnel and do some subbing themselves.”

Seniors Talon Below, Dylan Green and JD Lenoir; juniors Matthew Jones and Nick Noah; and sophomore Davis Ratliff will all contribute at the end position.

Offensive line The most significant adjustment on offense from last season will have to be made by Isabella’s centers, who are required in Booth’s offense to make precise snaps. “They’ve been struggling a little bit because it’s so different than anything they’ve done,” Booth said. “We try to keep them from getting frustrated, but really, I think they’re on schedule.” Junior Jessie Cook and ninth grader Chanley Ratliff will see most of the time at center.

The other four offensive line spots will feature returning starters: junior Jarrod Green, junior Ian Hall, sophomore Aaron Ratliff and senior Cody Smith. Green and Hall will play tackle, as will sophomore Tyler Edwards. Ratliff and Smith will play guard along with ninth grader Christian Littleton and junior Allen Smith. “I think they’re a smart bunch; they understand football, which is a good thing,” Booth said. “And we’ve got some aggressive guys up there.”

Defensive line The defensive front features more depth than perhaps any other unit on the team. The depth is needed because many of the players will also see time on offense.

Talon Below, a transfer playing his first year for Isabella, will see time at defensive end, along with Caleb Freeman, Matthew

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Bill Nabors Stadium Jones and Nick Noah. Defensive tackles will include Tyler Edwards, Jarrod Green, Ian Hall, Aaron Ratliff and Allen Smith.

Linebackers Isabella’s 4-3 defense will employ a middle linebacker, a strong side backer and one on the weak side. At middle linebacker, or “Mike,” fans will see Cody Smith and Mason Pate. Brandon Green and Austin Parker will get most of the snaps at strong side linebacker, or “Sam.” On the weak side, or the “Will” position, will be Jessie Cook, Dylan Green and Demetrius Henry.

Cook, Brandon Green, Dylan Green and Cody Smith all started games last season, so the Mustangs have much experience in this unit.

Defensive backs At small schools, most players—even quarterbacks—are often asked to play both ways, and Isabella is no different.

Quarterback Austin Haigler will also use his talents at safety, where he started last season.

Also playing safety will be Trae Calfee, Demetrius Henry, J.D. Lenoir and senior Carson West.

Playing cornerback will be Blake Edwards, Davis Ratliff, Nathan Smith and Tyler Smith.

Edwards is a returning starter from last season.

Special teams Senior Ricky Burt and Austin Haigler will handle both placekicking and punting duties.

Both have been kicking the football well in practice.

Booth said he has emphasized the importance of special teams to his players. “A lot of times, at small schools when you’ve got guys playing all over the place, they’re on the field so much that they want to take a break on special teams,” Booth said.

“We’re trying to teach them how important it is. A kick or a punt return can be the difference in the game.”

Roster 1-Austin Haigler-Sr. 2-Demetrius Henry-Sr. 3-Caleb Freeman-So. 4-Dylan Green-Sr. 5-Nathan Smith-Jr.

7-Blake Edwards-Sr. 9-Carson West-Sr. 11-Casey Jones-8th 15-Matthew Jones-Jr. 16-Tyler Smith-8th 20-Ricky Burt-Sr. 21-Trae Calfee-So.

23-Kevin Kotke-Fr. 25-Blake Thibodeaux-So. 29-Jason Buchanan-8th 33-Mason Pate-So. 34-Jordan Lenoir-Sr. 35-David Minor-8th 38-Austin Parker-8th

40-Tyler Armstrong-8th 42-Nick Noah-Jr. 45-Brandon Green-Sr. 48-Todd Smith-8th 53-Chanley Ratliff-Fr. 54-Jessie Cook-Jr. 57-Cody Smith-Sr.

59-Christian Littleton-Fr. 64-Tyler Edwards-So. 70-Allen Smith-Jr. 72-Ian Hall-Jr. 75-Aaron Ratliff-So. 77-Jarrod Green-Jr. 88-Davis Ratliff-So.

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Jemison

Panthers 2-minute drill Class 4A, Region 4 Coach Brad Abbott (Maplesville, 1987), 38-28 in 6 seasons Assistants Jeremy Carter: defensive line Jon Clements: quarterbacks Van Clements: receivers Jason Easterling: defensive backs Daryl Lowrey: offensive line Ronnie Parker: linebackers Kelly Smitherman: running backs 2010 schedule 8/26 at Chilton Co. 9/3 Dallas Co.* 9/10 at Holt* 9/17 Bibb Co.* 9/24 at Calera 10/1 at Southside Selma* 10/8 West Blocton* 10/15 at Livingston* 10/22 Greene Co.* 10/29 Marbury *-region game Key game Bibb Co. Jemison might be ready to challenge the team that went 12-1 last season.

2009 results (5-6, 5-2 region) Chilton Co. (L, 19-12) Southside Selma* (W, 41-14) at Calera* (L, 42-21) Livingston* (W, 27-18) at Chelsea (L, 31-21) at Dallas Co.* (W, 21-6) Greensboro* (W, 21-6) at Bibb Co.* (L, 47-7) Holt* (W, 49-28) Shelby Co. (L, 35-7) at Anniston, first round playoffs (L, 27-12) *-region game

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Experienced Panthers could finally get over playoff hump

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emison has been a model of consistency in coach Brad Abbott’s six seasons, going 34-8 in region play and making the state playoffs each year. But the Panthers’ postseason predictability—they’ve lost in the first round each year—is something they would like to change.

There’s no reason to think this won’t be the year Jemison makes a playoff run.

The Panthers have a third-year starter at quarterback, The Clanton Advertiser’s reigning Player of the Year at running back and experienced players on both lines, at linebacker and in the secondary.

and Trahe Smith all saw playing time last season.

Look out also for sophomore newcomer Kevin King, who has shown talent in practice.

Abbott said sharing carries among so many talented backs shouldn’t be problem because most will also play on defense, making rest a premium. “There will be plenty of opportunities for them to get reps on both sides of the ball,” he said. Swindle last season averaged 6.7 yards per carry and 107.2 yards per game. He rushed for 14 touchdowns.

Receivers Seniors Zak Kaylor and Jesse Taylor and junior Eddie Hubbard all started at times last season,

On the offense Jemison returns its leading passer in Scott Clements and its leading rusher and receiver in Javae Swindle, but the most telling thing about this team is that both of those players are being pushed for playing time.

Quarterback The importance of senior Scott Clements’ experience can’t be overstated. “It’s huge,” Abbott said. “It’s been a while since we’ve had a guy out there that has been with us for three years.

It’s very nice to have that out there.” Clements completed more than 50 percent of his passes last season while throwing for eight touchdowns and 1,447 yards in 11 games.

Backing up Clements will be junior Trey Bryant, who didn’t play football last season but offers an intriguing skill set. Bryant will also play receiver and maybe defensive back.

Offensive backs Shifty junior Javae Swindle will be a target after receiving The Clanton Advertiser’s top football honor, but he will have help carrying the football.

Senior Isa Bentley and juniors Dustin McDaniel

and the trio will anchor the receiving corps again this year. Abbott said the strength of the group is running routes and that they are also remarkably athletic.

Javae Swindle led the team last year with 349 receiving yards, but Taylor wasn’t far behind with 250 yards.

Offensive line Seniors Hunter Cowart, Matt Nolin and Makenan Sciandra are all returning starters—though Cowart, now a center, and Sciandra, now a tackle, switched positions in the offseason. “They’re smart—4.0 students out there,” Abbott said. “The other two we’re looking at were B-team players Opposing teams will see Eddie Hubbard all over the field: catching passes from his receiver position, making big hits as a linebacker and returning kicks.

last year, so they know what’s going on, too.”

Defensive line Nose guard Guy Freeman, a junior, is the only returning starter for this unit. “The other guys we’ve got in that group, they play good in practice and they played good in the spring game—they just don’t have any live game experience,” Abbott said.

Linebackers Isa Bentley led the team last season with 94 tackles, and he will once again anchor the linebacking corps. Joining him will be Eddie Hubbard and senior Cole Thompson, both of whom also have starting experience. Juniors Madison Bolton and Paul Levering, who Abbott said may as well be considered a starter because of the significant role he’ll play, will also help at linebacker.

Defensive backs Senior M.J. McKenzie (safety),

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KICKOFF 2010

Panther Stadium Jesse Taylor (cornerback and/or safety) and Javae Swindle (cornerback) are all returning starters. “The only thing I’m concerned with is two of those guys (Taylor and Swindle) get a lot of reps on offense,” Abbott said.

Abbott said coaches also have much confidence in senior

Cameron Bryant, Kevin King, Trahe Smith and sophomore B.P. Reeves.

Special teams Both kickers from last season were lost to graduation, but there will be many kick returners ready to go, including Eddie

Hubbard, Kevin King, Jesse Taylor and Javae Swindle.

Junior Freeman Ellison will compete for both placekicker and punter.

Quarterback Scott Clements could also wind up being the punter, and freshman Kortlin Zeigler could kick.

Roster 1-Randy Satterfield-Fr. 2-Eddie Hubbard-Jr. 3-Kevin King-So. 4-Trey Bryant-Jr. 5-B.P. Reeves-So. 6-Jesse Taylor-Sr. 7-Cameron Bryant-Sr. 8-Chase McCary-Jr. 9-Kortlin Zeigler-Fr. 11-M.J. McKenzie-Sr. 12-Scott Clements-Sr. 13-Brandon Arrington-Jr.

14-Jacob Hatch-Fr. 16-Zak Kaylor-Sr. 18-Keyshawn Jemison-Fr. 19-Brandon Kornegay-Fr. 20-Austin Chapman-Fr. 21-Isa Bentley-Sr. 22-Javae Swindle-Jr. 23-Alex Salazar-Fr. 28-Chase Elrod-Fr. 29-Nick Worthey-So. 32-Brandon Beck-So. 34-Trahe Smith-Jr. 35-Madison Bolton-Jr. 36-Dustin McDaniel-Jr. 37-Justin Crosby-Fr.

38-Davonte Wilson-So. 40-Corliss Dates-Fr. 41-Connor Lane-Fr. 43-Kendrick McCary-So. 44-Nick Steinmetz-Fr. 45-Daniel Evans-Fr. 46-Justin Caudle-Fr. 47-Bradley Arrington-Jr. 50-Brandon Campbell-Sr. 51-T.J. Bryant-Jr. 52-Markis Lucus-Sr. 53-Freeman Ellison-Jr. 55-Justin Nunn-So. 56-Seth Earnest-Jr. 57-Cody Chapple-So.

58-Crimson Kromer-So. 59-Cortland Nunn-Fr. 61-Giovani Morales-So. 62-Guy Freeman-Jr. 63-Dakota Harris-Fr. 70-Logan Hendricks-Sr. 65-Orry Smith-So. 66-Ian Baird-Jr. 67-Lukas Henderson-Jr. 68-Jeffery Childress-Jr. 70-Chris Wigington-Jr. 71-Hunter Cowart-Sr. 72-Joseph Hall-Fr. 73-Brandon Stokes-Fr. 74-Makenan Sciandra-Sr.

75-Josh Moore-Sr. 77-Matt Nolin-Sr. 79-Tyler Martin-Fr. 80-Josiah Swindle-So. 81-Cole Thompson-Sr. 82-Slade Pilgreen-Fr. 83-Paul Levering-Jr. 84-Tyler Caudle-Jr. 85-Blake Cleckley-So. 86-Matt Mims-Jr. 87-Charlie Lloyd-So. 88-Rodell Chisholm-Sr.

KICKOFF 2010

19

Verbena linemen run through a chute designed to make them remember to stay low when coming out of their stances.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

BUY ONE BUY ONE COMBINATION DINNER COMBO A-L AND GET A DINNER AND SECOND OF GET $2.00 OFF EQUAL OR A SECOND LESSER VALUE DINNER. MENU FOR 1/2 Price ITEMS A-L Dine-in or OR 16-52 Take Out

20

KICKOFF 2010

MARGARITA NIGHT

$2.00 OFF REGULAR PRICE

Woe to the tackling dummy that gets used during the first few days of fall camp, when players are anxious to hit something

KICKOFF 2010

21

Not so friendly

Billingsley vs.

Maplesville

Maplesville leads 33-24 Longest streak: Billingsley 9 games 2009 Maplesville 35-0 2008 Maplesville 40-20 2007 Maplesville 48-0 2006 Maplesville 42-8 2005 Maplesville 57-8 2004 Maplesville 39-26 2003 Billingsley 48-0 2002 Maplesville 28-14 2001 Maplesville 55-26 2000 Maplesville 36-0 1999 Maplesville 55-12 1998 Maplesville 36-8 1997 Billingsley 6-0 (third round playoffs) 1997 Billingsley 40-0 1996 Maplesville 54-6 1996 Maplesville 38-6 (third round playoffs) 1995 Billingsley 28-14 1995 Maplesville 14-13 (semifinals playoffs) 1994 Billingsley 20-6 1993 Billingsley 22-0 1992 Billingsley 47-12 1991 Billingsley 22-13 1990 Maplesville 26-0 1989 Maplesville 14-6 1988 Billingsley 12-2

1987 Billingsley 28-3 1987 Billingsley 18-0 (semifinals playoffs) 1986 Maplesville 28-12 (second round playoffs) 1986 Maplesville 23-3 1985 Billingsley 8-0 1984 Maplesville 8-0 1983 Maplesville 21-0 1982 Maplesville 28-0 1981 Maplesville 13-4 1980 Maplesville 38-14 1979 Billingsley 27-0 1976 Billingsley 22-0 1975 Billingsley 36-0 1974 Billingsley 21-0 1973 Billingsley 7-6 1972 Billingsley 23-14 1971 Billingsley 7-0 1968 Billingsley 9-6 1967 Billingsley 1966 Maplesville 34-0 1963 Maplesville 21-0 1962 Billingsley 27-7 1961 Maplesville 40-0 1959 Maplesville 12-0 1958 Maplesville 25-7 1957 Maplesville 41-31 1956 Maplesville 40-13 1951 Billingsley 19-0 1951 Billingsley 26-0 1949 Maplesville 51-0

1946 Maplesville 19-0

Isabella vs. Maplesville

Maplesville leads 42-12-3 Longest streak: Maplesville 19 games 2007 Maplesville 58-14 2006 Maplesville 62-0 2005 Maplesville 55-0 2004 Maplesville 34-6 2003 Isabella 39-6 2002 Isabella 52-21 2001 Maplesville 46-30 2000 Maplesville 14-7 1999 Maplesville 34-0 1998 Maplesville 39-6 1997 Maplesville 58-6 1996 Maplesville 71-8 1995 Maplesville 43-0 1994 Maplesville 56-0 1993 Maplesville 14-3 1992 Maplesville 27-6 1991 Maplesville 38-0 1990 Maplesville 34-7 1989 Maplesville 30-0 1988 Maplesville 18-7 1987 Maplesville 9-7 1986 Maplesville 55-6 1985 Maplesville 34-0 1984 Maplesville 19-6 (second round playoffs) 1984 Maplesville 10-9 (overtime) 1983 Isabella 7-6

1982 1981 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1968 1967 1966 1965 1964 1962 1960 1958 1956 1952 1950 1949 1947 1946 1946 1945 1945 1944 1944 1942 1942

Isabella 14-6 Maplesville 28-6 Maplesville 34-0 Maplesville 18-0 Isabella 14-12 Isabella 22-0 Maplesville 27-0 Isabella 14-6 Isabella 13-6 Isabella 10-8 Maplesville 26-0 Maplesville 20-0 Maplesville 31-13 Maplesville 13-7 Maplesville 20-7 Maplesville 19-0 Maplesville 2-0 tie 20-20 Maplesville 25-0 Maplesville 14-13 Maplesville 20-0 Isabella 13-7 tie 0-0 Isabella 2-0 Maplesville 12-6 Maplesville 26-0 Maplesville 24-0 Isabella 8-7 Maplesville 7-0 tie 0-0 Maplesville 27-0

Almost every Friday night brings another rivalry game for local teams. Listed below are the records for each series of games involving two local teams, starting with the most played series.

Chilton Co. vs. Jemison

Chilton Co. leads 38-18 Longest streak: Chilton Co. 10 games 2009 Chilton Co. 19-12 2008 Jemison 28-21 2007 Chilton Co. 31-7 2006 Chilton Co. 41-20 2005 Chilton Co. 29-22 2004 Chilton Co. 33-20 2003 Jemison 28-13 2002 Jemison 28-21 2001 Jemison 35-15 2000 Jemison 35-0 1999 Jemison 41-22 1998 Jemison 34-27 1997 Chilton Co. 46-14 1996 Chilton Co. 48-21 1995 Chilton Co. 14-0 1994 Chilton Co. 28-14 1993 Jemison 14-9 1992 Chilton Co. 31-6 1991 Chilton Co. 42-7 1990 Chilton Co. 21-20 1989 Jemison 40-20 1988 Chilton Co. 28-20 1987 Chilton Co. 21-13 1986 Chilton Co. 6-3 1985 Chilton Co. 15-14 1984 Chilton Co. 10-7 1983 Jemison 14-0 1982 Jemison 16-14 1981 Chilton Co. 19-13

1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1971 1970 1969 1968 1967 1966 1965 1964 1962 1961 1960 1959 1958 1957 1955 1954 1953 1952 1951

Jemison 13-7 Jemison 34-19 Chilton Co. 20-6 Chilton Co. 14-6 Chilton Co. 22-14 Chilton Co. 48-8 Chilton Co. 15-0 Jemison 23-21 Chilton Co. 15-0 Chilton Co. 13-6 Jemison 19-6 Chilton Co. 7-6 Jemison 18-0 Jemison 7-0 Chilton Co. 26-12 Chilton Co. 41-6 Jemison 13-7 Chilton Co. 20-6 Chilton Co. 34-7 Chilton Co. 14-0 Chilton Co. 26-0 Chilton Co. 47-0 Chilton Co. 48-20 Chilton Co. 33-20 Chilton Co. 38-0 Chilton Co. 27-6 Chilton Co. 31-26

Isabella vs. Verbena

Verbena leads 39-17 Longest streak: Verbena 9 games 2009 Verbena 32-6

2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977

Isabella 42-8 Isabella 21-8 Verbena 27-6 Verbena 6-0 Verbena 42-6 Isabella 31-6 Isabella 42-12 Isabella 31-6 Verbena 48-33 Verbena 38-0 Verbena 26-12 Verbena 57-6 Verbena 53-12 Verbena 50-6 Verbena 38-12 Verbena 42-0 Verbena 50-7 Isabella 16-14 Isabella 14-6 Verbena 26-14 Isabella 18-7 Verbena 34-19 Verbena 7-6 Verbena 26-17 Isabella 6-0 Verbena 7-6 Isabella 19-15 Verbena 15-6 Verbena 15-6 Verbena 63-0 Verbena 27-0 Verbena 15-8

1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1970 1969 1968 1967 1966 1965 1964 1963 1961 1960 1956 1955 1954 1953 1952 1950 1949 1947

Isabella 41-6 Verbena 35-14 Isabella 21-12 Isabella 27-6 Verbena 18-10 Verbena 22-20 Isabella 7-6 Isabella 28-6 Verbena 19-0 Verbena 27-0 Verbena 18-12 Verbena 39-6 Verbena 35-6 Verbena 32-12 Verbena 12-6 Isabella 34-6 Verbena 69-0 Verbena 42-0 Verbena 41-6 Verbena 41-0 Verbena 43-7 Verbena 49-0 Isabella 12-0

Billingsley vs. Verbena

Verbena leads 25-23-1 Longest streak: Both teams 12 games 2007 Billingsley 39-20 2006 Billingsley 28-6 2001 Billingsley 46-0 2000 Verbena 34-12 1999 Verbena 46-14

1998 Verbena 35-18 1997 Billingsley 30-6 (semifinals playoffs) 1995 Billingsley 31-7 1994 Billingsley 50-14 1993 Billingsley 28-12 1992 Billingsley 48-0 1992 Billingsley 57-8 (second round playoffs) 1991 Billingsley 22-6 1990 Billingsley 34-20 1989 Billingsley 14-6 1988 Billingsley 34-6 1987 Billingsley 27-0 1986 Billingsley 31-0 1985 Verbena 14-6 1984 Verbena 31-0 1983 Verbena 24-14 1982 Verbena 49-0 1981 Verbena 34-7 1980 Verbena 34-7 1979 Billingsley 28-7 1978 Verbena 28-7 1977 Billingsley 28-6 1976 Billingsley 20-3 1975 Billingsley 30-6 1974 Billingsley 28-6 1971 Billingsley 31-8 1969 Verbena 30-6 1967 Billingsley 23-13 1966 Verbena 17-3 1963 tie 0-0 1962 Verbena 38-19 1961 Billingsley 14-7 1959 Verbena 27-0 1958 Verbena 42-7 1956 Verbena 33-6 1955 Verbena 63-6 1954 Verbena 47-12 1953 Verbena 33-6 /1952 Verbena 46-6 1951 Verbena 34-19 1950 Verbena 32-6 1949 Verbena 41-13 1948 Verbena 41-0 1948 Verbena 48-0

Maplesville vs.

Verbena

Maplesville leads 33-14 Longest streak: Maplesville 13 games 2007 Maplesville 51-8 2006 Maplesville 42-6 2005 Maplesville 48-6 2004 Maplesville 27-0 2003 Verbena 14-7 2002 Maplesville 42-8 2001 Maplesville 46-14 2000 Maplesville 24-0 1999 Maplesville 22-14 1998 Maplesville 27-0 1997 Verbena 12-6 1996 Maplesville 38-12 1995 Maplesville 49-12 1994 Maplesville 21-0 1993 Maplesville 26-12 1992 Maplesville 21-8 1991 Maplesville 33-13 1990 Maplesville 42-14 1989 Maplesville 20-0 1988 Maplesville 41-14 1987 Maplesville 34-0 1986 Maplesville 34-0 1985 Maplesville 28-6 1984 Maplesville 24-14

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KICKOFF 2010

Jemison leads its series against local rivals Billingsley, Isabella and Thorsby

1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1976 1975 1974 1973 1972 1969 1968 1964 1958 1947 1946 1946 1945 1945 1944 1942 1942

Verbena 27-24 Verbena 15-0 Verbena 16-13 Verbena 16-13 Verbena 34-8 Verbena 34-8 Verbena 36-22 Maplesville 28-12 Verbena 13-6 Verbena 12-8 Maplesville 18-15 Verbena 16-6 Maplesville 44-6 Verbena 21-8 Verbena 26-0 Maplesville 25-0 Maplesville 20-7 Maplesville 24-6 Maplesville 19-0 Maplesville 47-0 Maplesville 26-0 Maplesville 35-0 Maplesville 13-6

Billingsley vs.

Isabella

Billingsley leads 28-13 Longest streak: Billingsley 9 games 2007 Billingsley 19-0 2006 Billingsley 50-14 2005 Billingsley 40-6 2004 Billingsley 50-23 2003 Billingsley 58-36 2002 Isabella 35-7 2001 Isabella 40-0 2000 Isabella 21-14 1999 Billingsley 24-21 1998 Billingsley 35-14 1995 Billingsley 42-7 1994 Billingsley 71-6 1993 Billingsley 54-15 1992 Billingsley 49-6 1991 Billingsley 20-6 1990 Isabella 21-12 1989 Isabella 16-15 1988 Billingsley 33-8

1987 Billingsley 55-6 (first round playoffs) 1987 Billingsley 42-14 1986 Billingsley 35-0 1985 Billingsley 14-6 1984 Isabella 53-8 1983 Isabella 14-7 1982 Isabella 25-13 1980 Billingsley 28-0 1976 Billingsley 18-6 1975 Billingsley 62-15 1974 Billingsley 28-14 1971 Billingsley 63-0 1970 Billingsley 41-0 1969 Billingsley 32-0 1968 Billingsley 47-0 1967 Billingsley 27-7 1965 Isabella 40-3 1964 Isabella 33-7 1962 Billingsley 33-0 1960 Billingsley 7-0 1958 Isabella 7-28 1956 Isabella 40-0 1952 Isabella 13-0

Isabella vs.

Thorsby

Isabella leads 26-12 Longest streak: Isabella 8 games 2009 Thorsby 32-30 2008 Isabella 49-7 2007 Isabella 46-6 2006 Thorsby 48-24 2005 Thorsby 51-12 2004 Thorsby 14-9 2003 Thorsby 48-14 2002 Isabella 28-0 2001 Isabella 29-0 2000 Isabella 32-0 1999 Isabella 26-20 1998 Isabella 14-9 1997 Isabella 14-13 1996 Isabella 21-20 1995 Thorsby 20-8 1994 Isabella 40-0 1993 Isabella 25-0

1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1977 1976 1975 1974 1973 1969 1967

Isabella 26-0 Isabella 20-13 Isabella 40-20 Isabella 13-0 Isabella 35-6 Isabella 21-0 Thorsby 9-8 Isabella 31-25 Isabella 34-8 Thorsby 7-6 Isabella 12-0 Thorsby 50-8 Thorsby 32-6 Isabella 20-18 Thorsby 6-0 Isabella 46-12 Isabella 20-14 Isabella 20-14 Isabella 36-7 Thorsby 6-2 Isabella 27-7

Thorsby vs.

Verbena

Verbena leads 28-9 Longest streak: Verbena 21 games 2009 Verbena 14-6 2008 Verbena 28-0 2007 Verbena 14-0 2006 Verbena 18-12 2005 Thorsby 21-9 2004 Thorsby 6-0 2003 Thorsby 35-0 2002 Thorsby 54-18 2001 Thorsby 23-6 2000 Thorsby 13-0 1999 Verbena 28-0 1998 Verbena 44-7 1997 Verbena 49-0 1996 Verbena 36-14 1995 Verbena 49-8 1994 Verbena 60-6 1991 Verbena 37-6 1990 Verbena 20-12 1989 Verbena 47-0 1988 Verbena 21-0

1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1977 1976 1975 1974 1971 1970 1969

Verbena 27-0 Verbena 28-0 Verbena 21-10 Verbena 60-6 Verbena 44-12 Verbena 35-7 Verbena 14-0 Verbena 14-0 Verbena 55-0 Verbena 12-6 Verbena 42-12 Thorsby 7-6 Verbena 38-0 Verbena 21-6 Verbena 12-6 Thorsby 28-6 Thorsby 35-6

Jemison vs.

Maplesville

Maplesville leads 17-9 Longest streak: None more than 3 games 2001 Maplesville 19-16 2000 Jemison 25-23 1999 Jemison 21-0 1998 Maplesville 36-14 1997 Maplesville 34-7 1996 Maplesville 38-6 1995 Jemison 21-20 1994 Jemison 26-20 1971 Jemison 26-0 1970 Maplesville 28-0 1969 Jemison 56-14 1968 Maplesville 12-7 1967 Jemison 40-2 1966 Maplesville 26-6 1964 Maplesville 260 1960 Maplesville 27-0 1958 Maplesville 25-14 1957 Maplesville 1956 Maplesville 40-7 1955 Jemison 14-6 1954 Maplesville 20-13 1950 Maplesville 41-0 1949 Jemison 12-6

1948 Maplesville 20-7 1947 Maplesville 14-7 1947 Maplesville 25-12

Jemison vs.

Verbena

Verbena leads 15-9-1 Longest streak: Verbena 9 games 1999 Jemison 15-0 1998 Verbena 22-25 1997 Verbena 0-28 1996 Verbena 7-14 1977 Jemison 26-12 1976 Jemison 14-6 1975 Verbena 6-16 1974 Jemison 14-13 1973 Jemison 34-8 1967 Jemison 40-0 1966 Jemison 330 1963 tie 0-0 1961 Verbena 13-16 1960 Verbena 0-7 1958 Jemison 13-6 1957 Jemison 25-12 1956 Verbena 7-42 1955 Verbena 0-60 1954 Verbena 6-3 1953 Verbena 0-41 1952 Verbena 0-28 1951 Verbena 6-21 1950 Verbena 7-42 1949 Verbena 14-18 1948 Verbena 0-6

Maplesville vs.

Thorsby

Maplesville leads 31-2 Longest streak: Maplesville 25 games 2003 Thorsby 27-6 2002 Maplesville 41-15 2001 Maplesville 28-7 2000 Maplesville 35-7 1999 Maplesville 36-22

1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986 1985 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980 1979 1978 1976 1975 1973 1972 1971 1970 1968

Maplesville 47-0 Maplesville 44-0 Maplesville 62-12 Maplesville 27-0 Maplesville 50-0 Maplesville 41-6 Maplesville 27-6 Maplesville 41-0 Maplesville 34-0 Maplesville 40-0 Maplesville 34-6 Maplesville 42-8 Maplesville 47-0 Maplesville 45-0 Maplesville 26-6 Maplesville 34-6 Maplesville 27-14 Maplesville Maplesville 29-7 Maplesville 35-20 Maplesville 25-0 Maplesville 7-6 Maplesville 21-0 Maplesville 10-6 Maplesville 45-8 Maplesville 12-6 Thorsby 22-0 Maplesville 56-6

Billingsley vs.

Thorsby

Billingsley leads 16-4 Longest streak: Billingsley 10 games (current) 2001 Billingsley 37-7

2000 Billingsley 16-10 1995 Billingsley 47-18 1994 Billingsley 42-8 1993 Billingsley 54-0 1992 Billingsley 62-20 1987 Billingsley 40-16 1986 Billingsley 34-0 (first round playoffs) 1986 Billingsley 42-6 1985 Billingsley 18-0 1984 Thorsby 13-0 1982 Thorsby 35-6 1981 Thorsby 40-0 1979 Billingsley 45-6 1976 Billingsley 38-8 1975 Billingsley 44-8 1973 Billingsley 7-0 1971 Billingsley 51-0 1970 Thorsby 14-6 1967 Billingsley 60-14

Chilton Co. vs.

Verbena

Chilton Co. leads 13-7 Longest streak: Chilton Co. 9 games (current) 1987 Chilton Co. 28-0 1986 Chilton Co. 28-0 1985 Chilton Co. 141984 Chilton Co. 33-12 1983 Chilton Co. 26-6 1982 Chilton Co. 13-0 1981 Chilton Co. 12-7 1980 Chilton Co. 12-7 1965 Chilton Co. 47-19

1964 1957 1956 1955 1954 1953 1952 1951 1949 1947 1940

Verbena 23-12 Chilton Co. 55-7 Chilton Co. 19-7 Verbena 7-6 Verbena 14-6 Verbena 12-7 Verbena 27-0 Verbena 27-0 Chilton Co. 27-7 Chilton Co. 32-6 Verbena

Chilton Co. vs.

Maplesville

Chilton Co. leads 171-1 Longest streak: Chilton Co. 8 games 1985 Chilton Co. 28-14 1984 Chilton Co. 42-20 1965 Chilton Co. 13-6 1964 Chilton Co. 19-0 1962 Chilton Co. 26-0 1961 Chilton Co. 7-0 1960 Chilton Co. 20-6 1959 tie 7-7 1958 Chilton Co. 20-0 1957 Chilton Co. 33-0 1956 Maplesville 25-7 1955 Chilton Co. 34-6 1954 Chilton Co. 27-7 1953 Chilton Co. 20-7 1952 Chilton Co. 27-26 1948 Chilton Co. 54-0 1945 Chilton Co. 36-0

1944 Chilton Co. 20-6 1942 Chilton Co. 44-0

Billingsley vs.

Jemison

Jemison leads 10-7 Longest streak: None more than 3 games (current) 2001 Jemison 44-6 2000 Jemison 50-6 1993 Jemison 22-14 1992 Billingsley 40-12 1991 Billingsley 44-6 1990 Jemison 21-8 1989 Billingsley 18-14 1988 Billingsley 35-12 1959 Billingsley 13-0 1958 Jemison 26-14 1953 Jemison 15-0 1952 Jemison 12-0 1951 Billingsley 35-0 1950 Jemison 12-6 1949 Jemison 6-2 1948 Jemison 33-0 1947 Billingsley 6-0

Isabella vs.

Jemison

Jemison leads 12-3-2 Longest streak: Jemison 8 games 1987 Isabella 14-13 1986 Jemison 28-0

1985 1984 1983 1982 1966 1965 1963 1961 1958 1957 1956 1952 1950 1949 1947

Jemison Jemison Jemison Jemison Jemison Jemison Jemison tie 7-7 Jemison Jemison Isabella Jemison tie 6-6 Jemison Isabella

13-0 20-12 34-7 50-0 33-0 20-0 13-0 15-12 19-6 48-0 20-12 6-0 14-6

Jemison vs.

Thorsby

Jemison leads 14-1 Longest streak: Jemison 6 games (current) 1995 Jemison 48-0 1994 Jemison 61-0 1993 Jemison 28-0 1992 Jemison 15-0 1983 Jemison 61-0 1982 Jemison 31-0 1976 Jemison 47-12 1975 Jemison 32-6 1974 Jemison 21-0 1973 Jemison 35-20 1972 Jemison 42-12 1971 Jemison 41-7 1970 Thorsby 28-14 1969 Jemison 21-20

1968 Jemison 39-6

Billingsley vs.

Chilton Co.

Chilton Co. leads 8-5 Longest streak: None more than 2 games 1999 Chilton Co. 28-14 1998 Billingsley 12-7 1997 Chilton Co. 26-13 1996 Chilton Co. 26-13 1995 Billingsley 24-13 1994 Chilton Co. 7-6 1993 Chilton Co. 21-7 1992 Billingsley 14-7 1991 Chilton Co. 14-0 1990 Chilton Co. 29-12 1989 Billingsley 25-12 1988 Billingsley 38-21 1950 Chilton Co. 39-13

Chilton Co. vs.

Isabella

Chilton Co. leads 9-0 Longest streak: Chilton Co. 9 games (current) 1961 Chilton Co. 34-0 1960 Chilton Co. 32-0 1959 Chilton Co. 42-6 1957 Chilton Co. 34-7 1956 Chilton Co. 33-6 1955 Chilton Co. 39-19 1954 Chilton Co. 45-0 1952 Chilton Co. 53-13 1928 Chilton Co. 43-0

KICKOFF 2010

25

Maplesville

Red Devils 2-minute drill Class 1A, Region 4 Coach Brent Hubbert (Lanette, 1989), 70-32 in 9 seasons Assistants Eric Bailey: defensive coordinator Tate Leonard: offensive line/ defensive line/special teams Jacob Little Justin Little Brandon Shanks 2010 schedule 8/27 at Vincent 9/3 at Keith* 9/10 Holy Spirit Catholic* 9/17 at Shades Mtn. Christian* 9/24 Billingsley 10/1 John Essex* 10/8 at Pickens Co.* 10/15 Autaugaville* 10/22 Sunshine* 10/29 at Sipsey Valley *-region game Key game At Pickens Co. A former Class 2A power welcomes one of Class 1A’s elite programs— should be one the year’s best.

2009 results (10-2, 7-1 region) at Billingsley* (W, 35-0) R.A. Hubbard (W, 20-0) Sunshine* (W, 68-12) John Essex* (W, 61-6) at Autaugaville* (W, 40-8) at Linden* (L, 23-14) Akron* (W, 32-0) at A.L. Johnson* (W, 42-6) Holy Spirit* (W, 55-7) at American Christian (W, 28-0) Talladega Co. Central, first round playoffs (W, 48-13) at Loachapoka, second round playoffs (L, 18-12) *-region game

26

KICKOFF 2010

Devils thinking title with almost every contributor returning

T

he expectations are as high in Maplesville as they ever have been under coach Brent Hubbert, and that’s saying something. Hubbert has already led the Red Devils to two appearances in the state semifinals, and his 2010 squad might be his most experienced yet.

Only one contributor from last year’s team was lost to graduation. And at perhaps the most important position, quarterback, Hubbert has a threeyear starter who led Chilton County passers last season in almost every statistical category. As is becoming the norm for Maplesville under Hubbert,

are more likely to catch passes out of the backfield.

Morrow is Maplesville’s fastest player (he’s been clocked in the 4.3-second range in the 40-yard dash), but Hubbert said, “I really couldn’t name a clear cut starter out of those four.”

If you’re already impressed, consider that at the other back position, Maplesville has senior Hunter McCay, who led all county running backs last season with an average of 10.5 yards per carry and 17 touchdowns. Hubbert said he also like McCay’s backups, senior Bobby Smith and sophomore Brintain Hill.

Receivers Maplesville will line up most often with three

On the offense The list of the county’s offensive statistical leaders last season looked like Maplesville’s two-deep roster. There were Red Devils among the top five in passing, rushing and receiving. the moto this season will be “state championship or bust.”

Quarterbacks Matt Hamner, Chilton County’s leading passer from a year ago, returns for his senior season. If Hubbert were going to put together an ideal quarterback, it might turn out much like Hamner, who has started at the varsity or junior varsity level since his 8th grade season and measures in at 6’5” and 190 pounds. Hamner completed two-thirds of his passes last season for an average of about 150 yards a game and 16 total touchdowns.

Sophomore Anthony Johnson and freshman Colby Chambers will back up Hamner.

Offensive backs Four players—juniors Cameron Morrow and Jared White, sophomore Dimitrius Parker and freshman Damian Mitchell—will share carries from the tailback position, which is similar to Maplesville’s other offensive back position except that tailbacks

wide receivers in the formation, but Hubbert employs many more than three throughout the course of the game. “In any different game, we rotate about nine receivers,” Hubbert said. Starters will likely be senior James Madsen, junior Dustin Stephens and Anthony Johnson. Madsen led county pass catchers with 385 receiving yards last season.

Seniors Blake Crumpton, Tyler Crumpton, Darrell Goodwin and Edwin Pettiway also have experience at the position, and Hubbert said two sophomores—Kelvin Hall and Brandon Morrow— emerged during the spring and fall and will compete for playing time.

Offensive line Senior tackles Dylan Wallace and Casey Atchison have started on the offensive line since their freshCameron Morrow might be the fastest player in the county. He’s been clocked at summer camps in the 4.3-second range in the 40-yard dash.

man years, and there’s not much drop-off in experience after them.

Sophomore Devin Keener returns to his guard position, and junior Tyler Vowell is a returning starter at the other guard position. Junior Johnathon Causey split time with Vowell last season but this year will slide over and play center, the position vacated by Blane Fuller, the only member of the 2009 Maplesville squad that was lost to graduation.

Defensive line Maplesville will use a defensiveline-by-committee approach, and it will include the same guys that were on the committee last season. Eleven Red Devils played on the defensive line last season, and all 11 return this year.

Defensive ends will include junior Brett Connell, Darrell Goodwin and Brintain Hill. Junior Keith Shields, Bobby Smith and Dylan Wallace will see time at defensive tackle. Wallace led all county players last season with 13 sacks—and it wasn’t even close; the next most was six, a mark reached by both Connell and Goodwin. Johnathon Causey and Tyler Vowell, the team’s biggest player at 275 pounds, will line up on the defensive front in short yardage situations.

Linebackers Hubbert said his team has five linebackers that are all considered starters: sophomore Cameron Andrews, Casey Atchison, Anthony Johnson, James Madsen and Edwin Pettiway. “We’re real high on those guys,” Hubbert said. “We think they have a chance to do well.”

Atchison led the team last season with 119 tackles. Madsen wasn’t

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George Walker Jr. Stadium far behind with 95 tackles.

Defensive backs Cameron Morrow will use his speed at either cornerback or safety. Morrow will be joined at corner by Blake Crumpton, Tyler Crumpton and Jared White.

Sophomore Kelvin Hall will play safety, and Damian Mitchell, like

Morrow, could wind up playing either corner or safety. The Crumpton brothers were especially good at intercepting the football last season.

Tyler wound up with more, five, but Blake tallied four picks in just five games, compared to 12 games for Tyler.

Special teams Casey Atchison will kick extra points again for the Red Devils. Blake Crumpton will punt; Crumpton was the punter last year until suffering an injury.

Hunter McCay and Dustin Stephens will return kickoffs, and Stephens and James Madsen will handle punts.

Roster

2-Darrell Goodwin-Sr. 3-Edwin Pettiway-Sr. 4-Blake Crumpton-Sr. 5-Tyler Crumpton-Sr. 6-Demitrius Parker-So. 7-Colby Chambers-Fr. 8-Damian Mitchell-Fr.

9-Cameron Morrow-Jr. 10-Cody Howell-Sr. 12-Matt Hamner-Sr. 13-Brett Connell-Jr. 14-Brandon Morrow-So. 15-James Madsen-Sr. 19-Kelvin Hall-So. 20-Anthony Johnson-So. 21-Hunter McCay-Sr.

22-Brintain Hill-So. 28-Brandon Abbott-Fr. 31-Colby Niswander-Fr. 32-Alex Payne-Jr. 34-Jared White-Jr. 36-Dustin Stephens-Jr. 37-Forrest Stewart-Fr. 40-Bobby Smith-Sr. 44-Brett Walker-Fr.

50-Damian Smith-So. 51-Josh Jones-Jr. 53-Devonte Morrow-Fr. 54-Kameron Ford-Fr. 62-Neal Ousley-Fr. 65-Johnathon Causey-Jr. 66-Cameron Andrews-So. 70-Devin Keener-So. 71-Casey Atchison-Sr.

73-Dylan Wallace-Sr. 74-Tyler Wheatley-Fr. 75-Matthew Dunkin-Jr. 76-Enrique Tapia-Fr. 77-Tyler Vowell-Jr. 79-Garrett Hooker-Jr. 82-Keith Shields-Jr. 88-Alex Smith-So. 89-Austin Smith-So.

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Anthony Johnson, right, will be one of Maplesville’s backup quarterbacks but will contribute the most as a wide receiver and linebacker for the Red Devils.

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Thorsby

Rebels 2-minute drill Class 2A, Region 4 Coach Billy Jackson (Chilton Co., 1990), 2-8 in 1 season Assistants Ab Argent Corey Clements: offensive coordinator Josh Deavers: defensive coordinator Shannon Farris Derrick Littleton Keith Williams: running backs/ defensive backs Amp Wright: running backs/ linebackers 2010 schedule 8/27 Verbena 9/3 Francis Marion* 9/10 at Isabella* 9/17 at Billingsley* 9/24 at Shades Mtn. Christian 10/1 American Christian* 10/8 at Hayneville-Central* 10/15 Vincent* 10/22 at R.C. Hatch* 10/29 Horseshoe Bend *-region game Key game Vincent. This region game late in the season could determine Thorsby’s playoff fate.

2009 results (2-8, 2-5 region) Verbena (L, 14-6) at American Christian* (L, 44-8) Pickens Co.* (L,33-14) at Fultondale* (L, 39-8) at Horseshoe Bend (L, 28-6) Vincent* (L, 36-20) Shades Mtn. Christian* (W, 28-6) at Isabella* (W, 32-30) at Hale Co.* (L, 20-12) Winterboro (L, 48-0) *-region game

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Dedication to training might make winning a habit

T

he overall record may not look impressive, but Thorsby made great strides last season under first-year coach Billy Jackson. The Rebels snapped a 17-game losing streak and, with a commitment to weight training and conditioning, laid the foundation for future success.

“We kind of had a little baptism by fire last year,” said Jackson, who took the job after the team had gone through spring practices. “Coming into the first game, we really didn’t know

Offensive backs Senior Kalup Nunn returns to his fullback position and as Thorsby’s primary runner. Nunn averaged 6.7 yards per carry last season. Nunn will be spelled by sophomore Bo Hoffman.

Jackson said senior Tanner Bush and sophomore C.J. Melendy will be considered co-starters at the H-back position. Bush is most effective as a straight-ahead runner, the coach said, and Melendy takes more of a slashing approach.

Receivers Farris’ favorite target the past two seasons has been classmate Marcus Bray. Last year, Bray av-

On the offense Thorsby’s three-headed monster of quarterback Andrew Farris, running back Kalup Nunn and receiver Marcus Bray accounted for more than 1,500 yards of total offense last season. what we could do. The seniors last year bought in and worked hard during the summer.”

The work in the weight room paid off last season and should again this year, Jackson said.

“We’re more confident because of it,” he said.

“You know, in the fourth quarter, you’re not going to be dragging behind.”

Quarterback Senior Andrew Farris will start behind center for the third consecutive season. Farris was among county leaders last year in every statistical category, passing for 708 yards. “We’ve put a lot of pressure on him to do a lot of things, for him to be young and inexperienced, but he’s done really well for us,” Jackson said.

Sophomore Nathan Oldroyd will back up Farris again and will also start for the Thorsby junior varsity team, picking up valuable experience.

eraged 19.3 yards per catch, demonstrating his big play ability. Farris will also throw to junior Stephen Mims, another returning starter, and Nathan Oldroyd, who will man the “Y” position, which is similar to a tight end.

Offensive line Last year’s “Y,” senior Erick Camarillo will move back to the offensive line, where he played two years ago, because of the heavy losses to graduation the team’s front sustained. Camarillo will play the all-important center position and be flanked by guards Jonathon Spivey, a junior, and Dylan Crocker, a senior. Spivey is the only starter returning from last year’s line, and he will switch positions, from tackle last year.

This year’s tackles will likely be junior AbraAndrew Farris returns to start at quarterback for the third consecutive year for Thorsby.

ham Flores and sophomore Brent Overton.

“We’re a little bit inexperienced, but as hard as they’ve worked this summer, I look for us to progress as the year moves forward,” Jackson said.

Defensive line Senior Phillip Hicks will play nose guard in Thorsby’s 3-4 defense. Lining up next to Hicks will likely be Jonathon Spivey and Dylan Crocker. “We’re going to need our defense to keep us in games,” Jackson said. “I think, if we can stay injury-free, I think there’s the opportunity for to be better this year.”

Linebackers The area’s top two tacklers from last year return to the same unit this season for Thorsby. Senior Dustin Wilson racked up 122 tackles in 2009, second only to Erick Camarillo’s 129.

Kalup Nunn is a returning starter at the Rover position, a hybrid linebacker/defensive end. Another such position is Bandit, which will be manned

by Bo Hoffman.

Defensive backs Cornerback Marcus Bray and free safety Stephen Mims are returning starters. The most

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Susan Bentley Field likely candidates to fill out the other two secondary positions are strong safety Tanner Bush and senior cornerback Trent McClain. Andrew Farris will rotate in when he’s able and when it won’t compromise his ability to the lead the offense. Junior Christian Statham will also be in the mix for playing time in the secondary.

Special teams Junior Carlos Campos will be the placekicker again this year.

Campos has been efficient with extra points and can also kick field goals, a commodity in

Class 2A football. Andrew Farris punted last year and will do so again this year, along with Bo Hoffman.

Roster 1-Stephen Mims-Jr. 2-Trent McClain-Sr. 3-Taylor Gunn-So. 4-Nathan Oldroyd-So. 5-Aaron Thornton-Jr. 8-C.J. Melendy-So. 9-Braden McRae-Fr.

10-Andrew Farris-Sr. 11-Marcus Bray-Sr. 12-Derek Childress-So. 13-Bo Hoffman-So. 14-Cameron CastleberryFr. 15-Colton Castleberry-Fr. 16-Kevin Owens-8th 20-Nolan Hayes-So. 21-Corey Balthaser-So.

22-Kalup Nunn-Sr. 23-Tanner Bush-Sr. 24-Christian Statham-Jr. 25-Dustin Mims-So. 27-Carlos Campos-Jr. 30-Hunter Nicholas-So. 33-Jacob Hamilton-Sr. 34-Chaz Davis-Sr. 35-Phillip Hicks-Sr. 42-Dustin Wilson-Sr.

44-Shawn Fansler-So. 51-Jonathon Spivey-Jr. 52-Dylan Crocker-Sr. 53-Austin Pickett-So. 54-Erick Camarillo-Sr. 55-Abraham Flores-Jr. 56-Jeremy Varden-Fr. 57-Sean Tillery-Jr. 59-Justen Popwell-Fr. 61-Brent Overton-So.

63-Brady Garrigus-So. 72-Cain Castleberry-So. 73-Jay Norwood-Fr. 74-Gauge Brown-So. 76-Eduardo Rico-So. 79-Zac Hensley-So. 79-Dakota Holcombe-Fr. 80-B.B. Evans-So.

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V Red Devils A Verbena

2-minute drill

Class 1A, Region 3

Coach Mike Harris (Verbena, 1974), 3577 in 11 seasons

Assistants Mark Cleckler Bill Smith: receivers/linebackers/ defensive backs Chris Stano: offensive coordinator/quarterbacks/running backs 2010 schedule 8/27 at Thorsby 9/3 Wadley* 9/10 at Notasulga* 9/17 at Loachapoka* 9/24 Isabella 10/1 Fayetteville* 10/8 at Talladega Co. Central* 10/15 St. Jude* 10/22 at Winterboro* 10/29 Billingsley *-region game

Key game Verbena’s last three region games will be tough, not least because a Red Devils squad that lacks depth will be beat up by that point in the season. So, it will be important for VHS to get a win against Fayetteville if they are to have any hope of making the playoffs.

2009 results (5-5, 3-4 region) at Thorsby (W, 14-6) at Wadley* (L, 3-0) Notasulga* (W, 36-8) Loachapoka* (L, 45-0) at Isabella (W, 32-6) at Fayetteville* (W, 34-3) Talladega Co. Central* (L, 34-13) at Donoho* (W, 36-0) Winterboro* (L, 28-18) at Marbury (L, 18-6) *-region game

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Verbena starters can compete, but injuries could doom season

s a Verbena graduate and coach going into his eighth season, Mike Harris is familiar with the nature of football at smaller schools. But the 2010 season will be different even for Harris.

Graduation decimated the Verbena roster, leaving Harris with less than 20 players for the upcoming season.

Still, there is talent to be found. The question will be whether the Red Devils can avoid injuries.

Receivers Sophomores Phillip Hensley and Jacob Montgomery and freshman Jaryus Wilson will see most of the snaps at the receiver positions. All three are new to the position, but Harris said he still feels good about the ball handlers on offense.

“Our skill people, we’re going to be in pretty good shape; we just don’t have the depth,” he said.

Offensive line If Harris feels good about the skill positions, he feels less so about the line, where the team sustained heavy losses to graduation. Senior Garrett

On the offense Juniors Christian Coston and Bay Lucas will replace the departed Brad Boswell at quarterback but will bring more of a running style to the position than did the former three-year starter.

Quarterback Two players are vying to replace departed quarterback Brad Boswell, a three-year starter.

Neither Christian Coston or Bay Lucas, both juniors, will be as good a passer as Boswell, but they might make up for it with their running ability.

“We’re going to involve the quarterbacks in the running game,” Harris said.

Dennis will lead the unit from his right guard position, and junior Justin Simmons is another returning starter. Simmons will play center.

Look for the other starters to be senior Jaycin Loury at left guard, sophomore Alex Clackley at left tackle and sophomore Brady Pope at right tackle. “They’re learning,” Harris said. “All of them on the line are rookies except two of them, and they’re in new positions.”

Offensive backs Junior Marquez Deramus will play fullback.

Deramus weighs 185 pounds but runs as powerfully as bigger backs. In fact, Deramus played on the line last season.

Verbena’s wing backs will be seniors Kelly Dorsett and Dustin Short, both of whom have at least two years experience in the offense and averaged more than five yards per carry last season.

Defensive line Alex Clackley and Brady Pope will play tackle in Verbena’s 3-4 scheme. Justin Simmons will man the nose tackle position, where he started every game last season. Garrett Dennis was among county leaders last season in both sacks Garrett Dennis will be a crucial component of Verbena’s offensive and defensive fronts.

(five) and tackles (98).

Like the offensive side of the football, injuries would be a serious problem for the Verbena defense because the team lacks depth.

Linebackers Junior Jeremy Creger and Marquez Deramus will play middle linebacker. Verbena’s outside linebackers are hybrid defensive ends that will rush the passer as much as they drop back in coverage. Phillip Hensley and Jacob Montgomery have a leg up on these positions, and sophomore Lattrell Jackson will play some, too.

Defensive backs Opponents might have a hard time throwing against the Red Devils because the secondary is Verbena’s most experienced unit, with all four starters returning from last season. Quarterback candidates Christian Coston and Bay Lucas will also line up as the team’s starting cornerbacks. Lucas led all county defenders last season with eight interceptions. Dustin Short and Kelly Dorsett will man the safety positions.

Red Devil Stadium the thing, if we can find somebody that can do it consistently.”

Special teams Bay Lucas and Jeremy Creger will be called on to punt for Verbena, and a group that includes Lucas, Christian Coston, Kelly Dorsett and Dustin Short will return punts and kicks.

Placekicking duties are even less settled. “We’re working on finding a kicker,” Harris said.

“We haven’t had a kicker in a couple of years now. That will be

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KICKOFF 2010

Roster 50-Garrett Dennis-Sr. 31-Kelly Dorsett-Sr.

52-Jaycin Loury-Sr. 28-Dustin Short-Sr. 7-Christian Coston-Jr. 12-Jeremy Creger-Jr. 22-Marquez Deramus-Jr.

23-Bay Lucas-Jr. 55-Justin Simmons-Jr. 56-Alex Clackley-So. 10-Phillip Hensley-So. 65-Jacob Montgomery-

So. 54-Brady Pope-So. 8-Lattrell Jackson-So. 5-Jon Cleckler-Fr. 27-Jared Mims-Fr.

4-Nick Adams-Fr. 62-Jacob Wilson-Fr. 2-Jaryus Wilson-Fr.

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Figure 2-A (Isabella’s Notre Dame Box) Figure 1-A (Maplesville’s spread)

X

Y

H

E

E B

Z

W

F F

Figure 2-B (Billingsley’s I-formation)

X

Y H

OFFENSE

KICKOFF 2010

Fl

Z F

F

T from page 3

with six men near the football instead of seven, which is typical.

“The formations are what that spread stuff is all about.”

Other local teams can be found on the opposite end of the spectrum of offensive strategy. Under coach Scott Booth this season, Isabella will line up in the “Notre Dame Box,” an offense developed by legendary coach Knute Rockne in the early 1900s. But don’t tell Booth his offense is outdated. Considered a new trend in college and the NFL, the “Wildcat” offense puts a running back in the shotgun to receive the snap from center—and has roots in the Box. “It’s been around forever; it’s nothing new,” Booth said of the Wildcat. “People say, ‘Notre Dame Box, that’s old timey,’ but it’s the same thing they think is so cool when they watch [former Florida quarterback] Tim Tebow.”

In Booth’s offense, the quarterback lines up in the shotgun, with a fullback next to him (Figure 2-A). A blocking back lines up behind the guard, and a wing back is off the line of scrimmage just wider than the end of the offensive line. Most often, the Mustangs will a tight end on either side of the line, but those players can also be split out wide and become like traditional split ends. The offense utilizes motion and deception, placing a premium on precise snaps from center, but Booth said the key is the quarterback is a threat to pass or run. “Most of the time, the quarterback takes the snap and hands off to the running back, and he’s out of the play. The defense doesn’t have to worry about him. So you’re playing 10on-11,” Booth said. “When you line up against us, the quarterback is another player you have to worry about. It’s 11-on-11. He’s like another running back.”

Another local team that will use the quarterback is Billingsley, who, under coach Joe Nettles, will run the triple option. On any given play, an option quarterback will take the snap from under center, have the option of handing the ball off to the fullback shooting up the middle or fake it to him and then run around the end of the line with the tailback following. From there, the QB can turn upfield or pitch it to the back. Hence, the three options: hand off, keep or pitch. “A lot of folks like the spread. It’s the same thing: a defense has got to play the whole field with the option,” Nettles said. “It’s tough to defend because you’ve got to be disciplined.”

Billingsley will usually run its offense out of the “I” formation (Figure 2-B).

Similar to Booth’s Box is Verbena’s double-wing formation (Fig-

40

E

E

Figure 1-B (Chilton Co.’s and Jemison’s spread)

Figure 2-C (Verbena’s double wing)

E

H

H

E

F ure 2-C). The quarterback lines up under center with a fullback directly behind him. There are wing backs off the end of both sides of the offensive line, and receivers are lined up wide on both sides of the field. Unlike most formations, Verbena’s double wing is symmetrical. “It makes the defense line up balanced, so you can predict what you’re going to get,” coach Mike Harris said. After lining up, though, Verbena uses motion before the snap and then misdirection after the snap.

That’s not much different than what spread offenses try to do.

Essentially, offensive strategy in football is about creating favorable matchups, whether it’s an option quarterback keeping the ball or pitching it depending on the direction taken by a defensive end, or if it’s a spread quarterback throwing to the deep receiver or the underneath one based on how a safety plays.

Offensive strategies have come and gone, but the goal of moving the football forward will never change.

Formations are nice, but it takes

players to make an offense run. On the next four pages are some of the area’s

most important offensive weapons.

444

First line of offense Defenders hoping to reach the Chilton County quarterback will first have to go through senior right tackle

Blake Norman.

Can’t catch him Even if the defense plays Jemison’s offense perfectly, they still could be grasping at air because of the speed and quickness of junior running back

Javae Swindle.

Rebel resiliency Whether catching passes or laying blocks, by the fourth quarter defenders are tired of seeing Thorsby senior

Erick Camarillo.

Bombs away With a strong arm and plenty of targets to throw to, the area’s biggest offensive threat is senior Maplesville quarterback

Matt Hamner.

Spirit section

Friday nights not the same without bands, cheerleaders

Chilton Co.

KICKOFF 2010

45

Isabella

Billingsley

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Maplesville

Verbena

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47

Jemison

Thorsby

North Chilton County’s Newspaper Telling the stories that matter to you.

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KICKOFF 2010

Donna’s Cut & Style Dollar General Store Bluebonnet Animal Clinic Napa Auto Jemison Building Supply A to Z PC Jemison Trade Center Shear Knowledge Ellison Auto Sales Quail Ridge Apts.

Wanda’s Family Hair Design Barry’s Furniture City Loans Jemison Florist Jemison Internal Medicine Subway Little Italy’s Dari Delite Thorsby Dr.Van T. Greene

Lacordobesa tienda y panderia Movie Gallery Orell’s Beauty Shop Colonial Bank Regions Bank Piggly Wiggly Hayes Drug Super Dollar Jemison City Hall Jemison Post Office Alfa Insurance Jemison Eye Care Coast Gas Farmers and Merchants Jemison Family Chiropractic Dr. Narvel A. Black Baptist Health Jemison Tractor Active Building Supply

Buddy’s Wash House Daisie’s Florist Mizzell’s Super Saver Front Porch Flea Market Chilton Water Authority Garrison Farm & Home Thorsby Post Office Peoples Southern Bank Main Street Market Flip Flops and Polka Dots Unique Hair Salon Thorsby City Hall Thorsby One Stop Thorsby Self Storage Instant Sign Center Money Mart Littleton’s Mower Parker Utility 191 Express Land Mart Suds-R-Us