Gridiron 2022

Colorful. Unique. From your breathtaking mountain views to your boisterous Friday night football games, we are proud to be the bank at the heart of it all. To support your personal and business needs through a wide variety of products and services. And be there for your financial goals, field goals, and beyond. We are Carter County Bank and we’re happy to call this place our home.

High school football brings communities together

DELANEY SCALF GENERAL MANAGER delaney.scalf@elizabethton.com

For many in our community, Friday nights in Carter County are about to change. Football is back.

And after sending four teams to playoffs in 2021, the excitement is building for the 2022 season.

It is crazy to think a sport could impact a community so much, but ride around on a Friday night and you will see just how much high school football means to us in Carter Carter. Bleachers in every stadium are filled and most games are standing room only.

There is nothing like the experience of attending a football game with the sounds of helmets colliding, fans and cheerleaders cheering and the band playing. On top of the excitement, you run into old friends and classmates you have not seen in years and get to relive those high school days.

It is great to see the communities come out and support these players, cheerleaders, coaches and band members who spend countless hours over spring and summer preparing for the season.

The Elizabethton Star knows how important these games are to our readers and community, so we will continue to cover as many games as possible throughout the season. In addition, we will have gamenight scores and photos on our website at www.elizabethton.com and coverage in the weekend print edition.

I want to thank each coaching staff, team, cheerleading squad, and school administration for working with us to provide the Gridiron to our readers.

Most of all, I would like to thank the businesses for their support in making the Gridiron a reality. Because of you, students, coaches and parents will have a keepsake they can cherish for the rest of their lives.

I hope you enjoy the 2022 edition of the Gridiron and would like to wish the best of luck to all of our Carter County teams.

Table of Contents

Star Photos by: Delaney Scalf, Larry N. Souders, Jared Andrews, Nicole Moore Layout/Design Robin Johnson

Elizabethton

8/19 7:30 p.m. Science Hill

9/1 7:00 p.m. @ Greeneville*

Rivalry Thursday

9/9 7:30 p.m. @ Daniel Boone

9/16 7:30 p.m. Grainger*

9/23 7:30 p.m. @ Anderson County

9/30 7:30 p.m. Sullivan East*

10/7 7:00 p.m. @ Rhea County

10/14 7:30 p.m. Volunteer*

10/28 7:30 p.m. Seymour*

* Denotes Region Games

Happy Valley

8/19 7:30 p.m. Cloudland

8/26 7:30 p.m. @ Chuckey-Doak

9/2 7:00 p.m. South Greene*

9/9 7:30 p.m. Unicoi County

9/16 7:30 p.m. @ Hampton*

9/23 7:00 p.m. Unaka

9/30 7:30 p.m. @ Cumberland Gap*

10/7 7:30 p.m. @ Johnson County

10/21 7:00 p.m. Pigeon Forge

10/28 7:30 p.m. @ Unaka

* Denotes Region Games

Unaka

8/19 7:30 p.m. North Greene*

8/26 7:30 p.m. @ Cloudland*

9/9 7:00 p.m @ Twin Springs (VA)

9/16 7:30 p.m. Jellico*

9/23 7:00 p.m. @ Happy Valley

9/30 7:30 p.m. Harlan (KY)

10/7 7:30 p.m. @ Claiborne

10/14 7:30 p.m. Cosby*

10/21 7:30 p.m. Hampton

10/28 7:30 p.m. Happy Valley

* Denotes Region Games

Cloudland

8/19 7:30 p.m. @ Happy Valley

8/26 7:30 p.m. Unaka*

9/2 7:30 p.m. Rockwood

9/9 7:30 p.m. @ Hampton

9/23 7:30 p.m. @ Cosby*

9/30 7:30 p.m. @ West Greene

10/7 7:30 p.m. Unicoi County

10/14 7:30 p.m. @ Jellico*

10/21 7:30 p.m. Johnson County

10/28 7:30 p.m. North Greene*

* Denotes Region Games

Hampton

8/19 7:00 p.m. @ Pigeon Forge

8/26 7:30 p.m. Johnson County

9/2 7:30 p.m. @ Avery County (NC)

9/9 7:30 p.m. Cloudland

9/16 7:30 p.m. Happy Valley *

9/30 7:00 p.m. @ South Greene*

10/7 7:00 p.m. @ Gatlinburg-Pittman

10/14 7:30 p.m. Cumberland Gap*

10/21 7:30 p.m. @ Unaka

10/27 7:30 p.m. Daniel Boone

* Denotes Region Games

Johnson County

8/26 7:30 p.m. @ Hampton

9/1 7:30 p.m. Chuckey-Doak*

9/9 7:30 p.m. @ Sullivan East

9/16 7:00 p.m. West Greene *

9/23 7:30 p.m. @ Volunteer

9/30 7:30 p.m. @ Claiborne*

10/7 7:30 p.m. Happy Valley

10/14 7:30 p.m. South Greene

10/21 7:30 p.m. @ Cloudland

10/28 7:30 p.m. @Unicoi County*

* Denotes Region Games

Elizabethton Preview

Elizabethton Cylones Cyclone Standouts

Upholding the standard... Cyclones preaching team and whatever it takes to win in 2022

BY IVAN SANDERS STAR CORRESPONDENT

The Elizabethton Cyclones still have a sour taste of unfinished business in their mouths after falling to Tullahoma in the 2021 Class 4A Blue Cross State Cham pionship contest in Chattanooga to a tough Tullahoma team in double overtime.

Elizabethton entered that game

HEAD COACH: Shawn Witten COACHING STAFF: Brian Jenkins, Terry Moore, Terrence Turner, Jeff Pierce, Matt Campbell, Devin Whitehead, Michael Grindstaff, Jordy Harrison and David Campbell

that has been a huge part for the success in the last four seasons.

“This season is not about replacing people - its about upholding the standard and not trying to play as an individual but as a team,” said Witten. “We have a certain formula and style of football that we play and you just have to be that guy. Where we have gotten to is its whatever it takes to win and its preaching team, team,

Shawn Witten

as the defending back-to back state champions in 2019 and 2020 and were looking to add the third title to their belts but fell short.

In 2022, Elizabethton head coach Shawn Witten said that the message that has been coming from him and his staff is to up hold the standard and not make it about individual accomplish ments but about whatever it takes to win games as a team.

Key differences

Witten made it clear that the new season is not about finding someone to fit the shoes of a cast of seniors that graduated in 2021

team, team, team.”

The head coach entering his 16th season at the helm of the program said there were a lot of games and a long season of football and that is why they were working to build depth.

There are going to be guys that become stars in the game however it all comes down to putting play ers into the right position for the team to win.

“It’s the next group’s time but we are not going to change the formula,” said Witten. “Tradition never graduates - everybody has to be ready.”

Nate Stephens Eli Williams Quarterback Focus

Favorite quarterback - Tom Brady

I have always tried to model my game after Tom Brady. He has always been one of my biggest role models. I have been watching him my whole life.

First touchdown pass

It was a great feeling throwing that touchdown at Sullivan East. It was the start of something special for me.

What to improve on

I want to make sure that I am getting the ball to all of my team and doing what is best for my team.

Toughest defense to face in 2022 Science Hill and Greeneville both run really good defenses. They will both provide a big challenge.

Gib Maupin

Goal for 2022 season

There are big shoes to fill. I just want to do whatever it takes to help my team win.

Cade Russell

Dalton Mitchell

Biggest strengths

The first part of the formula that the Cyclone coaching staff added to their equation began in the weight room leading up to the first state championship.

“The guys have worked hard with their attendance and sense of urgency and the desire to be here have been top notch,” said Witten. “Our attendance has been stagger ing as it approached almost 100 percent of the guys who wanted to be involved. We do have great size and senior leadership.”

Witten referred to the next group of players as the “unsung heroes” who have had to do the dirty work to help their predeces sors reach the apex in high school football.

“Our program is built around the motto of our town - it’s about being blue collar, it’s about discipline, and it’s about account ability and doing what’s best for our team.”

What are the challenges

The biggest challenge for the Cyclones will be trying to sell the players that the coaching staff is not looking for 25 superstars, but is looking for players who will strive to win the next play.

Elizabethton Cyclones

“We don’t need 25 Supermen,” said Witten. “We want guys want ing to communicate and be able to rely on each other. The season can be about a lot of things but at the start it can’t be about playing as an individual.”

Who are the key opponents

It isn’t hard to not go up and down the 2022 schedule and see a hefty amount of teams that seem to show success year after year. It begins with Science Hill, Boone, Greenville, and Anderson County.

As a matter of fact every game is key because whatever is or isn’t accomplished in each and every game can come back to haunt you when it gets to post-season play.

“We want to be the toughest team while upholding the stan dard,” said Witten. “Everybody is sick and tired of the orange and black Cyclones. We have to be disci plined in all of our games because competition makes great football teams and football players.”

Key players - Offense

Witten said that a team is only good as it’s supporting cast and on offense five names quickly came to mind.

“Senior Cade Russell will be in our backfield and he is as tough

as it gets,” said Witten. “Another senior, Nate Stephens will be play ing receiver and running back. I have seen the best version of Nate this season that I have ever saw. Teddy Orton is a senior wide receiver who has worked really hard and senior Dalton Mitch ell - regardless of where he has played - has accepted his role.

These guys have been there and saw that.

“Defensively, Eli Williams will play a large role on our defense as will Mason Ball who the other team will have to keep an eye on where he’s lining up. And Bradley Cannon is the ‘Papa Bear’ bringing the most experi ence to our defensive line.”

Cyclones 2021 Results

Date Opponent Result

Fri Aug. 20 7:00 PM #13 Science Hill N at East Tennessee State, Johnson City, TN W 34-15

Fri Sep. 3 7:00 PM #4 Greeneville R L 12-42

Fri Sep. 10 7:30 PM #17 Daniel Boone W 20-13

Fri Sep. 17 7:00 PM at Grainger R W 56-0

Fri Sep. 24 7:30 PM #20 Anderson County W 27-7

Fri Oct. 1 7:00 PM at Sullivan East R W 49-0

Fri Oct. 8 7:30 PM #3 Rhea County W 41-21

Fri Oct. 15 7:00 PM at #21 Volunteer R W 49-12

Fri Oct. 29 7:00 PM at Seymour R W 56-8

Fri Nov. 5 7:00 PM #14 Carter

Class 4A State Playoffs First Round W 47-14

Fri Nov. 12 7:00 PM at #20 Anderson County

Class 4A State Playoffs 2nd Round W 45-7

Fri Nov. 19 7:00 PM at #4 Greeneville

Class 4A State Quarterfinal W 13-7

Fri Nov. 26 7:00 PM #6 Upperman

Class 4A State Semifinal W 23-6

Sat Dec. 4 11:00 AM #1 Tullahoma N

Class 4A State Championship (2 OT) at Finley Stadium, Chattanooga L 14-21

Overall Record: 12-2

Region Record: 4-1

Cyclone Roster

POSITION

Cam Baker WR/OLB JR

Cade Russell RB/DB SR

Jesse Whitehead WR/DB JR

Zeth Mullins RB/OLB JR

Rhett Slagle QB/DB FR

Jeriah Griffin ATH SO

Eli Blevins WR/DB JR

Gib Maupin QB JR

Rowland WR/DB SO

Alex Riddle WR/DB JR

Luke Whaley WR/DB JR

Eli Williams MLB SR

Justin Whitehead WR/DB FR

Dalton Mitchell ATH SR

Teddy Orton WR/DB SR

Zach Wallin WR/DB FR

Nate Stephens ATH SR

Jack Blevins WR/DB FR

Landry Buckles OLB SO

Mason Williams PK SR

Billy Woodby MLB SO

Kaleb Holzer RB/OLB JR

Justius Wallin TE/HB FR

Colin Nidiffer PK SR

Sean Smithdeal PK SR

Travis Smalls OLB JR

Andrew Blevins DL JR

Markel Chappell DL JR

Jon Siepert OLB JR

Josiah Byrd DL FR

Xavier Smalls DL JR

Wesley Taylor OLB SO

Jaiden Wallin (J BIRD) RB/LB FR

Hunter Franklin TE/DL JR

Ben Adams TE/DL SO

Maddox Tressler OLB JR

Wesley Shankles LB SR

CLASS

Kyler Hartley DL FR

Campbell OL SO

Kyron Smalls OL SO

Colton Killion OL/DL FR

Bailey Cannon OL/DL FR

Wyatt Pitsenbarger OL JR

JC Andes DL SO

Jacob Whitaker OL SR

Stewart DL SO

Andrew White OL JR

Rainwater OL/DL FR

Cooper Adkins OL FR

Big Jaevin Morefield OL SO

Gavin Kodak OL/DL SO

Eli Guess DL JR

Landon Hughes DL JR

Corey Greene OL JR

Dylan McDuffie OL SR

Carter Muncey OL SO

Alexander Mora OL FR

Carter Green OL FR

Aiden McCourry OL FR

Caiden Draine OL SR

Sam Bowers OL SR

Josh Hayes OL JR

Brad Cannon TE/DL SR

Riley Jones TE FR

Mason Ball LB JR

Brock Shelby WR/DB FR

Tucker Taylor WR/DB FR

Logan Campbell WR/DB SO

Cruz Stout WR/DB FR

Peyton Wallin LB SO

Blaine Tolley TE SO

Adam Manning TE/DL FR

Andrew Vance DL SO

Cyclone JV Cheerleaders

Cyclone Varsity Cheerleaders

Front Row: Xandi Crockett, Rebekah Hardin, Maely Ingram, Haley Stresemann and Lindy Simerly Back Row: (Stormi) Emily Little, Bethany Wellnitz, Grace Whaley, Hope Shelby, Madison Holly, Kyleigh Elliott, Rheagan Haynes, Mallory Grindstaff and (Tuffy) Cayden Treadway.

Paige Shelby, Roman Shelby, Sophia McKeehan, Sophie Peterson, Olivia Fields, Taylor Whitson and Abbey Ferguson

Happy Valley Preview

Happy Valley Warriors Warrior Standouts

Warriors on the upswing after down season

BY ALLEN LAMOUNTAIN STAR CORRESPONDENT

Happy Valley did not have the kind of season fans and coaches expected in 2021, but finding a quarterback can make a big difference in 2022. Senior Reagan Ensor will be at the helm of the offense after stepping in midway through a disappointing season last year.

The Warriors struggled through a 1-9 overall season – defeating

graduation including standouts like Cameron Cochran, Andrew Little and Landon Babb, but Jarrett believes that with stability at the quarterback position the team will improve offensively.

“Reagan came in midway through last season after suffering from an early season injury,” Jar rett said. “He started the last four or five games and brought a spark to our offense. We look for him to be a playmaker and field general in leading our offense.”

HEAD COACH: Jason Jarrett COACHING STAFF: Greg Hyder, Hunter Buchanan, Todd Caldwell, Randy Ferrell, Austin Hicks, Steve McKinney and Brandon Mottern

Jason Jarrett

only Johnson County 24-6 – and injuries were a major factor.

“We have a group that has been able to have a full pre-season camp for the first time in three years,” Warriors head coach Jason Jarrett said. “The last couple of years we were shut down for mul tiple weeks and lost scrimmages. We hope this will propel us to have a better start and overall better season. Our depth is an issue. An injury here or there typically requires us to make several moves. That is just part of small school football.”

The Warriors lost 10 seniors to

Success begins up front on the line of scrimmage and the Warriors have some players there to compete starting with senior Maliek Clark (OL/DL), Hayden Walls (OL/DL), Ethan Townsend (OL/DL), and Gavin Way (OL/DL).

Sophomore Drew Blevins will start at wide receiver with Pedro Colunga at the running back spot and Joseph Sowards will handle the duties at H-back and defensive line. Senior Bronson Norman will man the fullback spot and is someone Jarrett is counting on to be a leader on the field and is a player to watch.

Quarterback Focus

Favorite quarterback Tom Brady

First touchdown pass

A 5 yard hitch to Andrew Little in a game with Cumberland Gap

What to improve on Mentality and footwork

Toughest defense to face in 2022

Pigeon Forge

Goal for the 2022 season

To win a conference championship.

Drew Blevins

Pedro Colunga

Joseph Sowards

Bronson Norman

Reagan Ensor

Happy Valley Warriors

“We also have several young kids that will be asked to grow up quickly and perform at a high level,” Jarrett said. That includes a group of sophomores like Carson Sells (WR/DB), Jamie Esterline (WR/DB), and Cade Kendall (WR/DB) as well as junior Dawson Young (WR/DB) and Cole Deakins (WR).

HV opens with Cloudland on Warrior Hill and the Highlanders dominated the Warriors 50-14 last season and then will travel to Afton in week two for a clash with Chuckey-Doak. Weeks three and four will see conference foe South Greene come to Warrior Hill and then a home game with cross county rival Unicoi County.

The Warriors will play home-and-away games with Unaka and a conference road clash mid-season against Hampton. HV will play backto-back road games with Cumberland Gap and Johnson County before finishing the home slate with Pigeon Forge.

“All of our opponents will be key,” Jarrett said. “We believe we play a tough schedule which only helps us improve. All our county teams are very athletic and well-coached and our conference alignment is one of the toughest in the state with perennial powerhouses.”

Elizabethton

Warriors 2021 Results

Date

Opponent Result

Fri Aug. 27 7:00 PM #21 Chuckey-Doak L 0-14

Thu Sep. 2 7:00 PM at #14 South Greene R L 8-39

Fri Sep. 10 7:30 PM at #10 Unicoi County L 6-35

Fri Sep. 17 7:00 PM #3 Hampton R L 0-48

Fri Sep. 24 7:30 PM at #17 Unaka L 6-8

Fri Oct. 1 7:30 PM Cumberland Gap R L 12-36

Fri Oct. 8 7:30 PM Johnson County W 24-6

Fri Oct. 15 7:00 PM at #6 Cloudland L 14-50

Fri Oct. 22 7:00 PM at #9 Pigeon Forge L 0-35

Fri Nov. 5 7:00 PM at #21 Rockwood

Class 2A State Playoffs First Round L 6-40

Overall Record: 1-9

Region Record: 0-3

Check out the Elizabethton Star’s print and online editions for all the local Friday Night Lights coverage! Your local, hometown newspaper will keep you up to date this football season with photos, scores, rankings and game highlights and previews

season

Warrior Roster

Ezeikiel Yutzy 11 RB/LB

Blevins 10 QB/WR/DB

Sells 10 WR/DB

Jamie Esterline 10 WR/DB

Gabe Macdougald 9 RB/DB

Tyler Bailey 9 WR/DB

Cade Kendall 10 WR/DB

Landon Keller 9 WR/DB

Cole Deakins 12 WR/OLB

Dawson Young 11 WR/DB

Aiden Paul 9 WB/ILB

Reagan Ensor 12 QB/OLB

Reece Sauer 10 FB/DLB

Nathan Peterson 9 WR/DB

Pedro Colunga 12 RB/ILB

Ron Paul Parker 9 RB/DB

Malachi Shaver 10 FB/ILB

Joseph Sowards 11 FB/DL

Bronson Norman 12 FB/ILB

Jackson Stout 10 FB/ILB

Maliek Clark 12 DL/DL

Carlos Lopez 9 DL/DL

Hezekiah Bellamy 9 DL/DL

Ethan Townsend 12 DL/DL

Andrew Ellis 9 DL/DL

Matthew Savage 10 DL/DL

Zachary Hicks 10 DL/DL

Gavin Way 12 DL/DL

Hayden Walls 12 DL/DL

Nic Primeau 9 DL/DL

Zach Stansell 11 DL/DL

Jayden Walls 10 DL/DL

Ben Stansell 11 DL/DL

Devon Smith

Dorian Young

Billy Howell

Austin Nickles

Warrior Cheerleaders

Kortlin Bennett, Jaydon Brummitt, Jaylen Fletcher, Maliyah Green, Shaylee Grindstaff, Hannah Smith, Natalie Cline, Bella Garmon, Izzy Sisneros, Emilie Vanover, Juley Nieminski

Jon Perry(Co-Captain), Kanye Fair Gracie YoungCaptain, Coaches: Greta Helm, Brooke Tolley

Assistant Coach: Ahlexionna Wright

Johnson City & Kingsport Locations

Hampton Preview Hampton Bulldogs Bulldog Standouts

Anything is possible...

Bulldogs shooting for a return trip to state championship in 2022

BY IVAN SANDERS STAR CORRESPONDENT

The Hampton Bulldog football program got a taste of what it’s like to make it to the state champion ship round last season when they advanced to the 2021 Class 2-A Blue Cross Championship in Chattanoo ga against a talented Westview team that featured Alabama quarterback commit Ty Simpson.

out of reach and if they are here and working it’s not out of reach for us.”

Notable difference in this year to last

Every team has an identity that sets them apart from the previous season and this year the Bulldogs will be fielding a team that ac cording to Lunsford has outside quickness and a lack of depth on the line.

HEAD COACH: Michael Lunsford COACHING STAFF: Mike Lunsford, Jacob Jones, Ora Hyder, Nick Johnson, Brad Kelley, Gary Keith, Jake Jenkins and James Cable

Michael Lunsford

Hampton brought home the Runner-up trophy which was nice to see setting in the trophy case at the school but left players feeling like they left unfinished business on the turf at UT-Chattanooga’s field.

With some players now graduated, Hampton head coach Michael Lunsford feels that experi ence has left the door open for the 2022 team to continue striving forward for another shot at the gold ball.

“It let the kids know that it’s feasible and possible,” said Lunsford. “They know that it’s not

“I feel like we have a little more speed on the outside,” said Lunsford. “I don’t know if we have as many strong boys on the front line as we have in the past. We have a good group in there but we just don’t have the depth that we had last year so we are going to have to do things a little bit differently offensively just as far as spreading the ball around to a few more people.”

Strengths for 2022

When analyzing the strengths of this year’s team, Lunsford pointed to the diverse amount of

Favorite quarterback

I have always looked up to Peyton Manning. He has always sort of been my role model. I just loved everything that he did. I just try to be more like him.

First touchdown thrown

Lord it has been years ago. In high school my favorite touchdown pass was last year when I threw to Conor (Jones) in the back of the end zone on a trick play. It was probably my favorite.

Toughest defensive opponent to face this year

Daniel Boone has always been a challenge going up there especially. South Greene’s defense is always tough to go against. Pigeon Forge is a little different as they play a cover two with two high safety’s that I will have to fit it in between.

Goals for the season

Get back to the state championship

and win it. I want to lead my team the best that I can and do whatever I can for my team.

What to improve on

Being more consistent.

Geno Carrico

Levi Lunsford

Chance Point

Austin Bentley Quarterback Focus

Dylan Trivett

weapons that he has to use at his disposal offensively.

How and when those weapons are used will keep Bulldog Nation on the edge of their seats from the opening kickoff to the final horn sounds.

“Our biggest strength I think is our weapons,” Lunsford said. “On the outside we have a lot of players that have played a lot of minutes and have quite a bit of experi ence out there. Dylan (Trivett) our quarterback has had a lot of reps the last couple of years even with Conor (Jones) in there. He is seasoned a little more than a first year quarterback would be. Chance (Point) is a very good weapon on the outside. I just feel like we have the opportunity to get the ball to different kids.

The biggest challenge

As most coaches will tell you, the biggest challenge that rears its head entering a season begins with ensuring there are enough players ready to take on key backup rolls as the injuring bug will hit at the most inopportune time.

It’s no different for Lunsford who for the first time in a few years is facing depth issues on the front lines.

Hampton Bulldogs

“Building depth is key for us,” said Lunsford. “We have several key guys in there and we have some young guys but its just that we need to build more depth. We never go under five linemen dur ing football season.

Key players to watch

For the last four years, Conor Jones and Morgan Lyons have had the spotlight shining on them for the blue and white, but this season fans will have to purchase a program to keep up with the changes as several players beside Trivett will be taking the field and are sure to provide their own high light reels.

“Levi Lunsford has run the football for three years for us now,” Lunsford said. “He has had to split a lot more time but will be the lead back this year. Chance Point and Austin Bentley are going to be great kids as Bentley has been a three-year starter. He will play fullback, offensive and defensive line and will play a lot of different positions.

“Geno Carrico is a kid who is doing a lot of different things and doesn’t get a lot of recognition because of the positions he plays. He is going to be a key player for

us. Dominque Burleson is going to be a sophomore this year but plays bigger than a sophomore and we expect a lot more out of him.

Key opponents

The Hampton head coach said some things never change as the same three teams that have been the thorn in the Bulldogs flesh for the past few years will continue

to do so in 2022 in South Greene, Happy Valley, and Cloudland.

“South Greene because they have had us the last two years and you don’t win the conference without beating them and Happy Valley,” said Lunsford. “Cloudland did a lot of great things last year going to the fourth round of the playoffs and that’s a good team and a huge rivalry for us.”

Bulldog 2021 Results

Date Opponent Result

Fri Aug. 20 7:30 PM #9 Pigeon Forge W 20-14

Fri Sep. 3 7:00 PM Avery County (NC) W 54-26

Fri Sep. 10 7:30 PM at #6 Cloudland W 33-0

Fri Sep. 17 7:00 PM at Happy Valley R W 48-0

Fri Oct. 1 7:30 PM #14 South Greene R L 22-28

Fri Oct. 15 7:30 PM at Cumberland Gap R W 42-0

Thu Oct. 21 7:30 PM #17 Unaka W 51-14

Fri Oct. 29 7:00 PM at #17 Daniel Boone L 14-27

Fri Nov. 5 7:00 PM #22 Monterey

Class 2A State Playoffs First Round W 21-0

Fri Nov. 12 7:00 PM at #21 Rockwood

Class 2A State Playoffs 2nd Round W 47-18

Fri Nov. 19 7:00 PM at #17 Oneida

Class 2A State Quarterfinal W 30-7

Fri Nov. 26 7:00 PM #2 Trousdale County

Class 2A State Semifinal W 22-20

Sat Dec. 4 3:00 PM #1 Westview N

Class 2A State Championship at Finley Stadium, Chattanooga L 14-55

Overall Record: 10-3

Region Record: 2-1

Bulldog Roster

No. NAME GRADE HT WT POSITION

#1

Johnathan Greenwell 12 6’0” 190 WR/LB

#2 Peyton Townsend 9 5’5 130 RB/CB

#3 J.J. McElyea 11 5’9 140 WR/CB

#4 J.J.Cable 9 6’1 140 WR/FS

#5 Geno Carrico 11 5’10 180 TE/LB

#6 Cameron Hall 12 6’3 230 TE/DE

#7 Conner Mckinney 9 5’9 140 QB/FS

#9 Levi Lunsford 12 5’9 210 TB/LB/WR

#10 Christian Brinkley 12 6’2 140 WR/S

#11 Chance Point 11 6’1 160 WR/CB

#12 Domnique Burleson 10 5’11 160 QB/WR

#13 Maddux Wilson 9 5’10 160 TE/LB

#15 Brody Hicks 12 5’10 175 WR/CB

#16 Elijah Mckinney 11 5’10 150 WR/CB

#18 Dylan Trivett 11 6’1 160 QB/FS/WR

#20 Isaac Miller 11 5’10 140 WR/CB

#21 Josh Sweeney 12 5’8 145 WR/CB

#23 Grayson Young 11 5’11 210 FB/LB

#25 Cain Barnett 9 5’10 130 WR/CB

#32 Weston Hicks 9 6’1 175 TE/LB

#33 Jayden Burleson 9 6’4 200 TE/DE

#34 Marcus Mauk 10 5’7 160 WR/CB

#39 Isaiah Belcher 9 5’5 160 WR/LB

#48 Luke Belcher 12 5’9 200 TE/LB

#52 Jamie Turbyfill 9 5’11 270 OT/DT

#53 Austin Bentley 12 6’0 200 OG/DE

#55 Jayden Kuhn 9 5’11 230 OT/DT

#57 Mario Reyes 10 5’11 220 OG/DT

#58 Thunder Fletcher 10 5’9 235 OGDT

#59 Jonah Boling 11 5’11 210 OG/DE

#64 Shayden Oliver 11 5’11 210 OG/DE/LB

#65 Greg Tolley 11 5’11 240 OG/DE

#67 Will Thorton 11 6’1 300 OT/DT

#71 Adam Wenger 12 5’8 170 OG/DE

#72 Devin Ward 12 6’0 250 G/DT

#74 Simon Eller 11 6’2 315 OT/DT

#77 Harlee Mann 9 5’11 270 OT/DT

#78 Bryson Montgomery 10 5’9 300 OT/NT

#82 Bryson Markland 11 6’1 160 WR/FS

#84 Evan Mann 12 6’3 170 WR/DB

Damien Norris 11 5’9 160 OLB/WR

Bulldog Cheerleaders

Front: Captains -- Shania Pierce, Marina Bailey, Cheyenne Fair

Middle: Bailey Moss, Hannah Smith, Keagan Campbell, Anna Hatley, Raegan Ashley, Jessa Hampton, Briley Curtis

Back: Lexi Taylor, Laken Johnson, Brooke Elliott, Briley Davis, Sydney Covington, Bella Fair, Emma Weir, Meleah Scalf

Unaka Preview Unaka Rangers Ranger Standouts

Rangers look to build on last season success

BY ALLEN LAMOUNTAIN STAR CORRESPONDENT

In 2021 the Unaka Rangers found themselves in an unfamil iar position in the TSSAA playoffs. The Rangers (7-4 overall) fell to Midway 42-26 as the Green Wave scored 28 fourth quarter points to take the contest.

This season, Unaka looks to take the next step and gain their first ever playoff victory with se nior quarterback Landon Ramsey

Blamo who will play wide receiver and defensive back along with Ryan Peters (RB/DB), Takota Freeman (WR/DB), Johnny Doug las (WR/DB), Landon Ramsey (QB/LB), and Jamol Blamo (RB/ LB) in the skill positions.

The other senior is Kaeden Barton (OL/DL).

Key players include Douglas, Ramsey and Ryan Peters, who ba sically ran the defense and made a lot of defensive calls last year. Offensively Joe-Z and Jamol will

HEAD COACH: O’Brien Bennett

COACHING STAFF: Colby Jones and Jake Jones

directing the offense. Head coach O’Brien Bennett is quickly filling coaching positions, but said he is proud of how his players are “coaching the coaches.”

“It looks like we’re going to get some guys to fill the posi tions,” Bennett said. “We are doing coaches course training and doing background checks etcetera and getting cleared by the county. We have a new gentleman here in Chris Henry ... It’s kind of interest ing to see the kids coaching the coaches.”

Unaka has a solid group of seniors leading the way in Joe-Z

be counted on heavily in the run game as well as the passing game.

T.J. Thomas – a junior – will be critical in the running back position as well as being a key defensive back. The Rangers have eight linemen starting with Aiden Peters, Barton, Tyler Smith, Jacob Wilson, Marcus Shomaker, Jake Taylor, Brayden Powell and Nathan Wilson.

All the linemen will go both ways as defensive linemen as well.

The Rangers open at home against new conference rival North Greene and then travel to Roan Mountain for a conference

Quarterback Focus

Favorite QB Tom Brady

First TD pass

year to Daniel Shearl

Biggest challenge

Cloudland

Biggest improvement

and footwork

Toughest defense faced Cloudland

O’Brien Bennett

Ryan Peters

Jamol Blamo

Joe-z Blamo

Takoda Freeman

Landon Ramsey

Unaka Rangers

clash with Cloudland. A game against Twin Springs (Va.) on the road follows the ‘Landers contest and Unaka then comes home to face confer ence foe Jellico.

Other key clashes include road games against Happy Valley (home and home) and Claiborne and home games against powerhouse Hamp ton and a final conference game against Cosby.

“The entire division is much stronger than last year,” Bennett said. “North Greene is much improved and Cosby had a ton of kids come out for football. But, Cloudland is still the team we have to get past to get over that mountain. They have been the ones everyone is chasing and have been for a long time.”

At QB, Ramsey had a great 2021 season and looks to build on that success despite losing his favorite receiver.

“We have a lot of guys that are explosive,” Ramsey said. “Jamol and Joe-Z are going to be big play players and we have guys that can be deep threats. Coach Bennett has given me the keys to the offense and if I see something I don’t like I can change the play.”

Rangers 2021 Results

Date Opponent Result

Fri Aug. 20 7:30 PM at North Greene R W 42-0

Fri Aug. 27 7:00 PM #6 Cloudland R L 22-54

Fri Sep. 10 7:00 PM Twin Springs (VA) L 24-28

Fri Sep. 17 7:30 PM at Jellico R W 62-20

Fri Sep. 24 7:30 PM Happy Valley W 8-6

Fri Oct. 1 7:30 PM at Harlan (KY) W 52-34

Fri Oct. 8 7:30 PM Claiborne W 14-12

Fri Oct. 15 7:30 PM at Cosby R W 54-12

Thu Oct. 21 7:30 PM at #3 Hampton L 14-51

Thu Oct. 28 7:30 PM Jenkins (KY) Forfeit W 1-0

Fri Nov. 5 7:00 PM #15 Midway

Class 1A State Playoffs First Round L 26-42

Overall Record: 7-4

Region Record: 3-1

Rangers Roster

TJ Thomas RB/LB

Brynin Repass QB/WR/LB

Joe-Z Blamo RB/DB

Ryan Peters RB/LB

Takota Freeman WR/DB

Johnny Douglas WR/DB SR

AJ Greenless WR/DB

Landon Ramsey QB/LB

Micah Gray WR/DB

Jamol Blamo RB/LB

Isiah White WR/DB

Josh Mann WR/DB

Kian Barton WR/DB

Keydon Russell WR/DB FR

Devin Bowers RB/DB

Aiden Peters OL/DL JR

Jake Taylor OL/DL SO

Kaeden Barton OL/DL SR

Braydon Powell OL/DL JR

Tyler Smith OL/DL JR

Jacob Wilson OL/DL FR

Marcus Shomaker OL/DL JR

Nathan Wilson OL/DL SO

Jacob Smith RB/DB FR

L to R, Bottom Row: Amarianna Harter, Mckenzie Mccall, Kylee McCall, Madison Warren, Emma Davis

L to R, Middle Row: Madison Markland, Makenzie Fuller, Celeste Wilson, Mollie Buckles, Scarlett Salinas, (Captain) Jordan Pippin

L to R Top Row: (Captain) Rachael Lloyd, Alexis Fuller, Bregayle Scalf, Emma Slemp, Kimberly Proffit, Tiffany Sheppard, Micah Gray, Mckenzie Sampson, Makayla Bunten

Ranger Cheerleaders

Cloudland Preview

Cloudland Highlanders Highlander Standouts

Depth builders...

Highlanders can be good if injury bug stays away

BY IVAN SANDERS STAR CORRESPONDENT

Cloudland head coach Zac Benfield would love nothing more than to have an encore presentation of his first season at the helm of the Cloudland High football program.

Benfield led his squad to within one score of heading to

HEAD COACH: Zac Benfield COACHING STAFF: Adam Boling, Jonah Jones, Garrison Julian, Jamie Johnson, Beaver, Eli Benfield, Ronnie Hendry and Garry Oakes

the 2021 Class 1A Blue Cross Bowl State Championship as the ‘Landers fell in overtime to South Pitt who went on to claim the state title the following week in Chattanooga.

After losing several key pieces from that team, Benfield still feels that he has a good team minus the depth that he had on last season’s squad.

Key differences from last year to this season

As previously mentioned, depth is going to be critical for the ‘Landers if they are to make a deep run in the playoffs this season.

“We are not going to have as much depth - we lost a lot of kids including linemen and backs,” Benfield said. “One thing that we are going to have to do this year is develop depth at least by week five or six if we have anyone that gets hurt so that we will have someone out there. Last year, we had six to seven kids that could step into that row, but this year

Quarterback Focus

Favorite quarterback

they are already starting.”

Benfield said the key is to de velop junior varsity players to get better. Also, with the loss of last year’s players to graduation, the ‘Landers hope to see some come on with their speed.

“We are nowhere as fast as we were last year,” Benfield said. “This bunch is gritty, however.”

Strengths for 2022

The second-year head coach still believes he has some strengths to rely on to set the tone for the new season and it all begins up front on both sides of the football.

Drew Brees is my favorite quar terback because like me he is short and really has to work to see over his offensive line having to drop back deeper to do so. He is a great Chris tian guy to model after as well.

First touchdown

I started at Unaka and threw a 25yard scoring pass to Gage McKinney. It was the greatest feeling ever. I then took over at center in the second half of the first round of the playoffs and started ever since.

What needs improvement

I guess mostly my speed since we are going to incorporate more quar terback run this season. I also want to work on my passing accuracy.

Favorite receivers

Gage McKinney and Caden Clarke because both of them are big, physi cal targets.

Cam Peppers

Goals for the season

I hope to be All State as a sopho more. I also am going to shoot for 15 passing touchdowns and 15 rushing touchdowns this season.

Zac Benfield

Kyle Birchfield

Austin Caraway

Dylan McClellan

Jacob Street

“I think our biggest strength is going to be our offensive and defensive lines,” said Benfield. “We have four to five kids that are really, really good. We can have that as our staple and build around it. Also, Gage McKinney is a really good receiver on offense.”

Biggest challenge for the 2022 season

Having to utilize players as starters that served in critical backup roles last season will put a crunch on the small group of play ers that will be counted on to do the same this season.

“Like I said before, keeping people healthy is going to be the real challenge this year,” Benfield said. “80% of injuries happen dur ing the season so keeping every body healthy is going to be key. I think that we have a shot at being pretty successful if we do that.”

Players to watch in ‘22 Benfield said that Highlander

Cloudland Highlanders

Nation will have some great play ers that will bring excitement to the field when the lights turn on Friday night.

“Cam Peppers is going to be fun to watch,” said Benfield. “Jo nah Jones came up from Hampton to help develop quarterbacks and he has done a phenomenal job helping Cam. Kyle Birchfield and Austin Caraway are really gritty runners who may not outrun you but they can get 10 to 15 yards for you every carry. Dylan McClellan and Jacob Street are going to be fun to watch on the offensive and defensive line and Cayden Clarke’s work in the weight room during the offseason has really translated to the field as well.

Tough competition

Looking ahead, Benfield said that he is looking at Hampton and Rockwood to be the two teams that will really bring the chal lenge to the ‘Landers in 2022.

“Hampton has developed a

solid team and they just reload season after season,” Benfield said. “If you can beat a Michael Lunsford coached team, then you know that you have defeated a sound, quality team. Also,

Rockwood lost in the second round of the playoffs last season, but they are always a tough team to go up against and they are going to be really good this year.

Highlanders 2021 Results

Date Opponent Result

Fri Aug. 20 7:30 PM Jellico R W 42-7

Fri Aug. 27 7:00 PM at #17 Unaka R W 54-22

Fri Sep. 3 7:30 PM at Rockwood COVID W 1-0

Fri Sep. 10 7:30 PM #3 Hampton L 0-33

Fri Sep. 24 7:00 PM Cosby R W 52-18

Fri Oct. 1 7:00 PM West Greene W 20-7

Fri Oct. 8 7:30 PM at #10 Unicoi County W 28-0

Fri Oct. 15 7:00 PM Happy Valley W 50-14

Thu Oct. 21 7:30 PM at Johnson County. W 42-6

Fri Oct. 29 7:00 PM at North Greene R W 38-8

Fri Nov. 5 7:00 PM Greenback

Class 1A State Playoffs First Round W 42-24

Fri Nov. 12 7:00 PM #14 Oakdale

Class 1A State Playoffs 2nd Round W 60-16

Fri Nov. 19 7:00 PM #9 Coalfield

Class 1A State Quarterfinal

Fri Nov. 26 7:00 PM #2 South Pittsburg

W 22-21

Class 1A State Semifinal L 22-30

Overall Record: 12-2

Region Record: 4-0

Highlanders Roster

Freshman:

1

Bryce Birchfield

Bryson Peppers

RB. OLB. 5’7. 140 lbs

TE. Corner. 5’6. 130 lbs

Blake Dugger C. DE. 5’10 140 lbs

Caleb Ledford RT. DT. 5’9 180 lbs

Lucas Johnson LG. DT. 5’7 140 lbs.

Ashton Blevins RG. DE. 5’9 170 lbs.

Tyler Jordan WR. CB. 5’8 140 lbs.

Walker Gouge WR. CB. 5’8 130 lbs.

Kasey Chamberlain WR. CB. 5’6 130 lbs.

Sophmore:

Kingston Cole

Camden Peppers

Jacob Stinnet

WR. Corner. 5’9 160 lbs

RB. MLB. 5’7 190 lbs

LG. DT. 5’7 180 lbs

Matthew Baker WR. Corner 5’8 155 lbs

Noah Young OG. DT. 5’10 190 lbs.

Sean Miller OG. DE. 5’10 160 lbs.

Junior:

9 Austin Caraway

RB. MLB. 5’8 170 lbs

75 Silas Burleson DT. Guard 5’8 240 lbs

Dylan McClellan DT. Tackle 6’1 315 lbs

Elijah Holtsclaw WR. Corner 5’9 175 lbs

Miguel Hernandez WR. Corner 5’7 140 lbs

Cayden Correll T. DT. 5’10 220 lbs

23 Hunter Oakes WR. CB. 5’10 130 lbs

7 Kyle Birchfield

73 Gabe Whitson

Senior:

62 Jacob Street

12 Gage McKinney

RB/LB. 5’10 170 lbs

T/DT. 6’1 200 lbs

DT. Tackle 6’2 290 lbs

WR. FS. 6’0 190 lbs

5 Cayden Clarke WR. Corner 5’10 185 lbs

Highlander Cheerleaders

Top Row Left to Right: Kendall Birchfield, Katie Baldwin, Ella Benfield, Melena Roberson, Faith Roark, Shana Canady, April Stone and Hailey Simerly Front Row Left to Right: Kaydence Sweat, Jenna Stinnett, Alexus Ward, Katelynn Simerly, Mackenzie Johnson, Allie Miller, Clarissa Wilson, Adlyn Williams, Tate Shaw, Mackenzie Moro and Izabella Christman

Johnson County

Longhorns

Longhorns Roster

Black

Evan Dollar

James Potter

Ethan Simcox

Carter Rhudy

Connor Simcox

Jack Csillag

Houston Barlow

Luke Worlock

Juan Mejia

Landell Walker

Joe Joe Church

Aiden Fredell

Grinnan Walker

Nathan King

Cecil Perry

Avery Jones

Stout

Chase Muncy

Sam Cretsinger

Mathew Forrester

George Grill

Colten Grindstaff

Nikolas Bigwood

Patrick Cruz

Hank Sauer

Noah McQueen

Kyle Sluder

Connor Gibson

Carlos Argueta

Mammano

Speed

Montalvo

Sluder

Mackey

Kimble

Ward

Portillo

Olen

Brown

Crow

Hutchins

Roark

Dorman

Miller

Kucher

Walker

Davis

Stout

Kirby

Cobb

Espinoza

Reece

Crawford

Longhorn 2021 Results

Date Opponent Result

Thu Sep. 2 7:30 PM at #21 Chuckey-Doak R L 12-48

Fri Sep. 10 7:30 PM Sullivan East W 7-6

Fri Sep. 17 7:30 PM at West Greene R L 14-22

Fri Sep. 24 7:30 PM #21 Volunteer L 0-63

Fri Oct. 1 7:30 PM Claiborne R W 29-26

Fri Oct. 8 7:30 PM at Happy Valley L 6-24

Fri Oct. 15 7:00 PM at #14 South Greene L 2-43

Thu Oct. 21 7:30 PM #6 Cloudland L 6-42

Fri Oct. 29 7:30 PM #10 Unicoi County R L 21-58

Fri Nov. 5 7:00 PM at #1 Alcoa

Class 3A State Playoffs First Round- FORFEIT L 0-1 Overall Record: 2-8 • Region Record: 1-3

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