EyeCare
Professionals, P.C. • Dr. Martha Morrow • Dr. Stuart Greenberg • Dr. Wayne Stevens
256-332-5440 Open: Monday - Saturday
Good Luck To All Area Teams! WWW.ALABAMA2020.COM
RUSSELLVILLE Moulton • Red Bay se habla espanol
Have A Great Season!
JOE HOLMES OIL CO. INC. K&R GAS STATIONS LOCATIONS 1 IN RUSSELLVILLE 1 IN PHILL C CAMPBELL AMPBELLL 3 IIN NR RED ED B BAY AY • 1 IIN N VVINA INA *THANKS FOR YOUR BUSINESS*
We are proud to support all of our Area Teams, Cheerleaders & Bands! Your locally owned Independent Pharmacy!
Rodney Logan, Owner & R.Ph, Stapp Harrison, Pharm D & Paul Lovelace, R.Ph
To We Are Here s! Fill Your Need
256-331-1919 The Game Plan
Hwy 43 • Russellville Franklin Shopping Center
Russellvillephar@bellsouth.net
We Are Still Your Compounding Headquarters. Hours of Operation: Mon - Fri: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. 2
Table of contents
4 10 15 20 24 28 31 34 36 37 38 41 42
Russellville Phil Campbell Red Bay Tharptown Vina Cheerleaders Bands North Alabama Alabama Auburn SEC Previews SEC Schedule NFL Schedules Publisher Jonathan Willis Editorial J.R. Tidwell and Kellie Singleton Sales Peggy Hyde and Nicole Pell Composition Karen McAfee Circulation Thomas Morris
P.O. Box 1088 • Russellville, AL 35653 256-332-1881 • fax: 256-332-1883 www.franklincountytimes.com
The Game Plan
All of the helmet art contained in this magazine was created by Mike Gardner and may be found on mghelmets.com. Used with permission.
3
Russellville
Golden Tigers
The 2012 high school football season is almost upon us, and no one is anticipating its start more than the players who have prepared all during the offseason. The Russellville Golden Tigers will look to improve on their 5-6 record from last season under second-year head coach Michael Jackson. The amount of talent that may be found in 5A, Region 8 makes it a veritable murderer’s row for every team in the group, and senior leadership is very important to the success of these teams. “We’re in a tough region,” Jackson said. “I think everybody knows that. Probably five of the top eight teams in the north are in our region. I enjoy that; I think that’s a challenge each and every week and our kids have to come to play each week and I think that prepares you for the playoffs. I think this region is going to do really well in the playoffs. “I think some really good teams are going to get left out of the playoffs because there are so many good teams in this region. “Our expectations are to play and get better from day one. We’re playing each and every day to improve and build on that each and every week to build some confidence to play physical ball, which
The Game Plan
is our kind of football. That’s what we’re looking for. I feel really confident about us doing that, and taking one game at a time. I think this region is so tough that there’s going to be some upsets. It’s going to be an interesting season. We’re excited about it.” The Golden Tigers may have an edge in experience, as the team boasts 19 seniors on the roster. “I think we have a really solid group of seniors,” Jackson said. “The ones that are coming back like Tyler Boyd, Logan Ezzell, Jordan Gist, C.J. Posey and Bud Coleman and Gardner Gann, all these guys are seniors that have really stepped up. I’m looking for us to have a super year. “Hopefully we have some young guys come through and really help us. Landon Smothers at starting quarterback is a freshman, and that’s a pretty big deal, so he’s got to keep getting better, show improvement and take care of the team and the ball. “Basically what I’m looking for, the seniors that have put all of this time in and worked really hard since last November, I’m looking for those guys to have a good year and take leadership of this team and everybody else to follow around them.”
AHSAA Class 5A, Region 8 2011 Record: 5-6 COACH
Michael Jackson This will be the second season for the Golden Tigers with head coach Michael Jackson at the helm. Jackson coached at Buckhorn for nine years before returning to Russellville, his alma mater, in 2011. Jackson has a career record of 58-53. The Golden Tigers will look to rebound after last season. 4
2012 Russellville Golden Tigers football schedule
The Game Plan
8/31
Deshler
home
9/7
Muscle Shoals
away
9/14
East Limestone
home
9/21
West Point
away
9/28
Walker
away
10/5
Cullman
home
10/12
Athens
home
10/19
Lawrence County
away
10/26
Hartselle
home
11/2
Fayette County
away 5
No. 1
No. 3
No. 4
No. 5
No. 7
No. 8
No. 9
Tyler Boyd
Jordan Gist
Chase Fretwell
Jacob Seal
Luke Smothers
Landon Smothers
Austin Kitterman
Senior
Senior
Senior
Senior
Junior
Freshman
Freshman
No. 10
No. 12
No. 13
No. 14
No. 15
C.J. Posey
Colton Hargett
Adam Brown
Christian Foster
Sophomore
No. 11 Daniel Betancourt Junior
Senior
Junior
Senior
Freshman
No. 17 Colby Thompkins Sophomore
No. 18
No. 19
No. 20
No. 22
No. 23
No. 24
No. 25
Kaleb Daniel
Tanner Miller
Bud Coleman
Deyon Hill
Oscar Graham
Trey Williams
Isaac Fleming
Senior
Freshman
Senior
Freshman
Senior
Freshman
Senior
No. 26
No. 27
No. 28
No. 31
No. 32
No. 34
No. 36
Cameron DeArman
Shemar Hamilton
Joshua Seal
Zack Garrison
Kamar Bough
Andrew Heath
Austin Bennett
Matthew Davidson
Freshman
Sophomore
Freshman
Freshman
Freshman
Junior
Freshman
No. 37
No. 40
No. 41
No. 42
No. 43
No. 44
No. 49
Braden Esquivel
Kaelan Bonds
Alfredo Roman
Logan Ezzell
Jose Martinez
Chris Hill
Lucas Witt
Freshman
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
Junior
Junior
Junior
The Game Plan
6
No. 50
No. 51
Sam Lynch
Jared Thornton
Sophomore
Freshman
No. 52 Damian McGlaughn Junior
No. 55
No. 56
No. 57
No. 58
Hayden Evans
Hunter Winsted
Tyrone Wilson
Ryan Mitchell
Junior
Junior
Freshman
Sophomore
No. 59
No. 60
No. 61
No. 62
No. 64
No. 65
No. 66
Marco Velez
Drake Hipps
Gardner Gann
Arman Norris
Brett Adcock
Chase Holland
Elvis Ambrosio
Senior
Freshman
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
Junior
Junior
No. 67
No. 69
No. 70
No. 71
No. 72
No. 74
Freddy Vargas
Joseph Butts
Austin Bohannon
Hunter James
Hugo Castro
Senior
Senior
Freshman
Drew Wiginton Freshman
Sophomore
No. 73 Louis Monterroso Junior
No. 75
No. 76
No. 77
No. 79
No. 80
No. 81
No. 82
Hunter James
Braxton Dempsey
Zach O’Neal
Jacob DeVaney
Landon Oliver
Zane Pounders
Jose Vargas
Freshman
Junior
Freshman
Sophomore
Freshman
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
No. 83
No. 84
No. 85
No. 86
No. 87
No. 88
No. 89
Riley Pike
Braden Newton
Adonnis Bailey
Blake Bendall
Jesus Vargas
Michael Bricker
Trent Miller
Sophomore
Sophomore
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Sophomore
Freshman
The Game Plan
7
No. 91
No. 92
No. 93
Demonta Hamilton
Tra Bonds
Daughtery
Sophomore
Junior
Freshman
Noah
Plates • Sandwiches • Meats • Salads • Desserts Open 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Mon. - Sat.
GREAT FOOD AT GREAT PRICES!
Daily Lunch Special 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
RICKEY & MELINDA
Meat, 3 Vegetables plus Drink
(256)332-1007
$5.99 Carry Out or Dine In
CATERING & FUNDRAISING
1314 N. Jackson Ave. • Russellville
Not Pictured:
Damon Dinsmore
Drake Dinsmore
Reed Smith
Jalen Scott
Chris Owens
J.J. Johnson
Jesus Sanchez
Ovante Graham
Taishun Abernathy
Isaiah Valdez
WOOD-THOMPSON INSURANCE SERVICE, LLC
Good Luck Golden Tigers!
• Home • Auto • Life • Commercial Serving our area for over 52 years! 130 N. Jackson Ave. • Russellville, AL
(256) 332-1381 • woodthompsonins.@aol.com
Redhawk Technical
Services, LLC
“Your First Choice for Quality and Integrity”
a e v a H Year!! t a e r G
The Game Plan
256-331-3432 • www.redhawkts.com Specializing in high quality, cost effective solutions in contracting, business improvement, project management and nuclear safety
8
Gifts and Interiors Authur Court Go
Tigers! (256) 332-7683
Woodwick Candles Vera Bradley Brighton Jewelry
Artistic
Jewelry & Repair, Inc. Sales • Casting • Repair
256-332-9199 Neil Willis
Jim Poss
14001 Hwy. 43 Suite 2 • Russellville, AL Franklin Shopping Center
15357 HWY. 43 BYPASS • RUSSELLVILLE
Have A Great Season! Christian Foster
Foster & Foster CPA’S (256) 332-1525 269 Underwood Rd. • Russellville
Sinclair-Lawrence & Assoc., Insurance For all Your Insurance Needs Call...
117 S. Jackson Ave. Russellville (256)332-2061 2513 E. Avalon Muscle Shoals (256)383-8335
Go Tigers! Lucas Witt
Serving You Into The Next Century!
SOUTHEASTERN ATHLETICS RECRUITING
Glen Jackson President/ C.E.O. 15480 Hwy. 43 • Russellville
256-332-5513
The Game Plan
9
Phil Campbell The Phil Campbell Bobcats will enter into the 2012 football season with a rare luxury for a 2A program; a compliment of 16 seniors on the depth chart. Phil Campbell will be led by Jason Hill, a first-time head coach who took the helm after the departure of former head coach Bo Culver this summer. The Bobcats have not had a winning season since 2001, and the hunt is on for the group of Phil Campbell High School players that get things moving towards a positive upswing. “These seniors and I have made it one of our goals to practice and play with a sense of urgency in the fact that we’re trying to accomplish one thing, and this group wants to be remembered as the senior bunch that had that first winning season after the long drought,” Hill said. “Their goals are not unobtainable if they’ll continue to work hard together and play hard together, then I’ve got no doubt that we’ll have a chance to accomplish that goal.” With 16 seniors on the roster, it makes sense that the Bobcats will have a talented group of players that may be able to get things done on the gridiron this season. “Craig Saint has got to be one of the
The Game Plan
Bobcats
guys to watch,” Hill said. “He’s been in the fire long enough and has the experience to where he does all of the little things right. “He’s earned the position on our football team as one of our players to watch. “Colton Baker on defense and in our left tackle spot is a pretty physical individual. He enjoys hitting people. Football isn’t a contact sport, it’s a collision sport, and he likes to collide with people. “Cory Potter and David Sparks are going to make some big catches for us throughout the year. “Colton Vickery’s potential is through the roof; he just has to figure the game out. Coach [Will] Copeland makes him play with that round ball, but I want him to be able to play with the oblong ball too. “Being the fastest guy on the team, Jamie Dorroh’s got a chance to break one every time he touches it.” The Bobcats will look to better last year’s record of 2-8 this season, but there is some stiff competition in Class 2A, Region 8. Fans of Bobcat football will not have to travel far for a couple of away games this season, as Phil Campbell will travel to play Red Bay and Tharptown this year in weeks one and four.
AHSAA Class 2A, Region 8 2011 Record: 2-8 COACH
Jason Hill Jason Hill is one of two coaches making his head coaching debut in Franklin County this season. Hill was a coach at Chelsea High School last year. Hill will look to turn around the Bobcats, who went 9-21 over the past three years under former head coach Bo Culver. 10
2012 Phil Campbell Bobcats football schedule
The Game Plan
8/30
Tharptown
away
9/7
Hatton
away
9/14
Sheffield
home
9/21
Red Bay
away
9/28
Phillips
away
10/5
Cherokee
away
10/12
Lexington
home
10/19
Colbert Heights
away
10/26
Tanner
home
11/1
Hackleburg
home 11
No. 1
No. 2
No. 3
No. 4
No. 7
No. 8
No. 10
Levi Swinney
Jamie Dorroh
Jacob Hill
David Sparks
Tristen Godsey
Logan Nix
Jacob Ayers
Junior
Senior
Senior
Senior
Freshman
Junior
Senior
No. 11
No. 12
No. 14
No. 15
No. 16
No. 18
No. 19
Ty Sumerel
Jacob Hamilton
Brady Whitten
Brian Edgar
Alston Tidwell
Colby Baker
Michael Bittle
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
Junior
Junior
Eighth Grade
Sophomore
No. 20
No. 21
No. 22
No. 24
No. 30
No. 31
No. 33
Craig Saint
Casey Galloway
Justin Knight
Ryan Scott
Rob Duncan
Matthew Stancil
Colton Vickery
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
Junior
Senior
Freshman
Junior
No. 34
No. 38
No. 40
No. 44
No. 50
No. 51
No. 52
Eli Snider
Johnny Strickland
Dwayne Chaney
Noah Smith
Jason Galloway
Colton Baker
Freshman
Sophomore
Cory Cheek
Sophomore
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
Junior
No. 53
No. 54
No. 58
No. 60
No. 61
No. 62
No. 65
Johnny
Matthew Putnam
Nick Swinney
Logan Cole
Sophomore
Eighth Grade
Sophomore
Tyler Jenkins
Jimmy Ray Hall
Zack Winsted
Senior
Senior
Junior
The Game Plan
Cummings Senior
12
No. 67
No. 68
No. 70
No. 75
No. 77
No. 79
No. 80
Nathan Duncan
Caleb Hill
Ty Snider
Clay Harris
Tristen Ergle
Aaron Miller
Colin Duncan
Junior
Senior
Senior
Senior
Freshman
Junior
Freshman
Not Pictured: Stuart Motes
Cox Dental Group
Suzy’s Decor Owner: Suzy Whitehead
No. 89
Cory Potter Senior
r Home Decor~Candle~Flowe Arrangements~Custom & Gifts Painting~Ladies Tops~Jewelry
Family & General Dentistry Larry W. Cox, DMD
Center For Cosmetic Dentistry And Orthodontics In Business for 37 Years
256-710-7288 11763 Hwy. 43 S~Russellville, AL 35653 (In Bldg with Miller Furniture)
OPEN: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
150 McClung St. Phil Campbell 256-993-5341
571 Bexar Ave. Hamilton 205-921-7443
Trust Us For Your Prescription Needs!
Phil Campbell Drugs Tamara Yancey Owner/R.Ph. Serving the Community as a Pharmacist for 30 years
Good Luck and Have a Great Season!
Oliver Corner Formal Wear-Special Occasion
Tuxedos • Wedding Gowns • Formals • Pageants
205-993-5224
1144 Pike St. • Phil Campbell, AL The Game Plan
L-R: Tish Benford, Dana Copeland and Deb Grissom
Phil Campbell
Have A Great Season! 2962 Hwy. 237 • Phil Campbell
D
We Accept All Insurance Drug Plans
D
Fast, Friendly Quality Service
D D D D D
In-town Delivery
Prescriptions Vitamins Health Care Products Refills By Phone
(next door to Phil Campbell Medical Clinic)
(205) 993-4123 Sandra Oliver, Owner
Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m We Appreciate Your Business!
13
Meet New PCHS Head Coach Jason Hill left where young men can actually learn things like discipline, work ethic and being selfless, selling out for something that’s bigger than themselves. The way that I would like to measure my success is, I love winning but I hate losing on Friday night, but my scoreboard is 10 or 15 years down the road when one of my former players comes back to me and I see what kind of man, what kind of daddy, what kind of productive member of society that they are, because that’s what I’m trying to build. I’m trying to build men at Phil Campbell High School.” What brought you here to Phil Campbell? “One of my colleagues at Chelsea emailed the posting to me and said, ‘Hey, have you seen this?’ I’ve never seen a head coaching position that was advertised in general science, and that’s my certification. I was very excited to say the least. I had a chance to interview for a few head jobs here and there, but there’s never been one for general science, which is what I like to do in the classroom. For the last 13 years I’ve been a Chemistry teacher. I’ve taught Chemistry, Physical Science, and Physics. For the past five years I’ve been an AP Chemistry teacher. I feel like I can impact kids both on the field and in the classroom, and that’s what’s great about being a coach.” When did you find out about the open coaching spot here? “It was within the last week of school, in the teens in May. It was two weeks before I got out of school that I applied for the job.” Where did you coach before coming here? “I was at Chelsea High for six years; it was going on seven. I was the defensive coordinator there for four years, offensive line coach and the strength and conditioning coordinator for four years as well. I’m hoping that that experience and the things that I’ve learned from all the places I’ve been, and I’ve been at some great places, that I can take all that and mesh that into a philosophy that’s going to work here at Phil Campbell.” Is this your job as a head coach? “It is my first head coaching spot. I’m hoping to be a coach that can grow my players academically, spiritually, morally, and then athletically. I really do believe that football and athletics as a whole are some of the last men-builders that our society has
Hours: 8 - 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
New Office & Owners: Wayne & Dale Garrison
Go Bobcats!
What is your coaching style going to be like? “On the field we are going to be fundamentally sound. We’re going to block people on offense, and we’re going to tackle people on defense. We’re going to get off blocks on defense. All of the time we’re going to work on those things, and we’re going to be fundamentally sound. Our style will be simple, but we’re going to be very good at what we do on both sides of the ball.” Do you feel like there’s any pressure on you to come in and turn things around immediately with Phil Campbell supporting athletics like it does? “Pressure? No. Desire? Yes. That’s my want; that’s my desire. I don’t feel like there’s pressure to do that right out of the gate. There hasn’t been a winning season here in 10 years, and I’m looking forward to getting a chance to break that streak. Will it be next year? I hope so, but I don’t feel like there’s a pressure coming from above to make sure that that’s done this year. That’s one of the things that excited me about this opportunity. We’ve been down, but we have a chance to come out of the dark into the light. There’s nowhere to go but up.”
Have a Great Season!
Chat-N-Chew
256-332-3215
Steaks • Hamburgers • Fries • Chicken • Shakes
Check with us for all your Autobody needs!
(205) 993-4816 3400 Broad St. • Phil Campbell
865 E. Lawrence St. Russellville, AL 35653
The Game Plan
14
Red Bay The Red Bay Tigers have experienced more than their fair share of upheaval this offseason. The dreaded coaching carousel made camp in Red Bay this summer and made two turns before leaving. The Tigers started work in the offseason under head coach Jamie Easly of South Panola, Miss., but circumstances dictated that he would not remain with the team during the season. Red Bay had to find another head coach, and John Ritter was named to the newly vacated position a few weeks after Easley’s departure. Ritter has a good group of experienced players that know how to win football games. Long-time head coach Dale Jeffreys left after last season to coach at Colbert County, his alma mater. Jeffreys accrued a 114-59 record during his time with the Tigers over the past 15 years, including an 11-13 playoff record. Red Bay has proven it has the drive and the talent to repeatedly make the playoffs, but what still eludes them is the 2A state championship game. With the talent Red Bay has returning, includ-
Tigers
ing 2011 Franklin County Times All-County Player of the Year Matt Belue at fullback, another playoff berth seems like an easily attainable goal. “I feel really good about this group of guys,” Ritter said. “They’ve worked extremely hard this summer. “We’ve had a great preseason. I couldn’t ask for anything else out of them. “They give me and the staff 110 percent every day. I feel like if we can stay healthy we can have a very successful year.” It will be some familiar names to the Red Bay community that Ritter believes will decide the success of the Tigers in 2012. “Matt Belue had a good year last year,” he said. “Stephen Wood is a guy that’s a very tough runner, and he gets a lot of yards after contact. “He’s hard to bring down. Barry Reach is another two-way player that should have a big year at inside linebacker and tight end. Mike Ramirez and Austin Humphres on the edge should be good.” Only time will tell if Red Bay will make yet another appearance in the playoffs, but the other 2A, region 8 teams stand in the way.
AHSAA Class 2A, Region 8 2011 Record: 10-2 COACH
John Ritter John Ritter is the other new head coach in Franklin County this season. He takes over for former head coach Dale Jeffreys, who amassed a 114-59 record while at Red Bay. The Tigers will look to return to the playoffs under Ritter in his first headcoaching job.
The Game Plan
15
2012 Red Bay Tigers football schedule
The Game Plan
8/31
Central Florence
home
9/7
Tanner
away
9/14
Hatton
home
9/21
Phil Campbell
home
9/28
Wilson
away
10/5
Sheffield
away
10/12
Cherokee
home
10/19
Lexington
away
10/26
Colbert Heights
home
11/2
Marion County
away 16
No. 3
No. 4
No. 5
No. 6
No. 7
No. 8
Ezekeil Lofton
Jade Pounds
Clay McNatt
Matt Belue
Ryan Knoblock
Austin Thorn
Levi Humphres
Sophomore
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Senior
Senior
Senior
No. 9
No. 10
No. 11
No. 12
No. 13
No. 14
No. 15
Nick Thorn
Zachary Humphrey
Justin Payne
Tyler Reach
Danny Elliott
Steven Wood
Austin Milam
Freshman
Junior
Senior
Sophomore
Senior
Senior
Freshman
No. 19
No. 20
No. 21
No. 22
No. 40
No. 51
No. 60
William Holt
Michael Ramirez
Bailey Turbyfill
Austin Childers
Barry Reach
Taylor
Jordan Turbyfill
Freshman
Senior
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
No. 64
No. 65
No. 66
No. 70
No. 72
No. 73
No. 74
Derrick Anderson
Rickey Esparza
Austin Belue
Freshman
Junior
Junior
No. 1
Dustin Holland
Kyle Fuller
Jeffrey Gresham
Colby Knoblock
Freshman
Junior
Sophomore
Freshman
Weclowski Junior
Junior
Not Pictured: Christopher Beerbower
The Game Plan
17
Meet New RBHS Head Coach John Ritter
For the second time this summer Red Bay has a new head football coach. John Ritter, who is 29 years old, took over the head coaching spot a few weeks after the resignation of Jamie Easley, who was hired earlier this year. Despite his young age for a head coach, Ritter does have plenty of experience in coaching positions. Ritter was the quarterback at Lauderdale County High School from 1999 to 2003. His head coach was Ronnie Ritter, who also happens to be his father. Ronnie Ritter was the head coach at LCHS from 1991 to 2006 with a record of 106-77. “It was fun getting to be around him so much, because my dad and I are really close,” Ritter said. “But there was always pressure to perform. If I had a bad night it felt like I was letting two people down, my dad and my coach.” John Ritter has seven years of coaching experience, including time at Lauderdale County, Athens, Muscle Shoals and Mortimer Jordan. The position at Red Bay marks Ritter’s first head coaching job. “It’s exciting,” Ritter said. “It’s an honor to be in a place like Red Bay, a prestigious honor.” Despite this being his first job as head coach, Ritter already has it in his mind what he wants to The Game Plan
accomplish in his first season with the Tigers. “I want to continue the success that we’ve had here,” he said. “I want to beat the people that we’re supposed to beat, and I want to beat the people we’re not supposed to beat.” The coaching carousel that struck Red Bay this summer has been a far cry from what the school is used to, as Dale Jeffreys maintained the position over the past 15 years, with 13 of those winning seasons. Jeffreys amassed a final record of 114-59 while at Red Bay. “Dale did a great job of coaching these kids up,” Ritter said. “They have had good stability for so long. I started two weeks ago and all of the guys are already saying yes sir and no sir. This is a great group of kids, so I won’t have to change much. They know what the expectations are for them.” The only goal that has seemed out of reach for the Tigers had been to make it deep into the playoffs. Red Bay went 11-13 in the postseason under Jeffreys, but the team has made the playoffs the last 13 years straight. “Making the playoffs is expected here,” Ritter said. “If you can get there, then you hope to make some noise.” As far as a coaching style goes, Ritter seems like he will bring some enthusiasm to the game. “I’m high energy,” he said. “We are going to do everything we do full speed.” The pressure to have a winning football team in Red Bay is something that has been built over the past several years, but those who know the town and its players completely understand that drive. “Red Bay is a great community,” Ritter said. “There is a great love for football here, and the town lives for Friday night, just like where I’m from.” What Coach Ritter hears from different members of the community over the next few years may not always be about football but rather his name being extremely similar to a deceased comedic actor. “I have heard every comment about Jack Tripper and “Three’s Company” that you can imagine,” Ritter said. “I’ve heard them all, but the younger generation doesn’t know who he was.” 18
Good Luck Tigers!!
GOOD LUCK to all TEAMS in 2012!!
d o o G
! ! s gi er
T k c u L
Tiffin Motorhomes WHEREVER YOU GO, WE GO.
Setting High Standards www.tiffinmotorhomes.com
RED BAY, ALABAMA
500 6th St. 256-356-9541 800-633-3349 105 2nd Street N.W. • Red Bay, AL • 256-356-8661 The Game Plan
19
Tharptown The Tharptown Wildcats will return to the field under third-year head coach Bill Smith this fall. Smith has coached at Vina, Phil Campbell, Hackleburg and Red Bay previously, and before the year is through he will coach against three of those teams. The Wildcats are 2-18 under Smith and are coming off a winless 0-10 season last year. Numbers have been a problem for Tharptown in the past, but this year’s roster features as many players as 2A Red Bay. The Wildcats have seven seniors on this year’s team, but many of the backups are freshman and sophomores. This lack of experience on the depth chart may prove to be the biggest obstacle Tharptown has to overcome during the 2012 season. “It’s hard to tell how the season will turn out,” Smith said. “We’ve got seven seniors, but we’ve got a lot of young kids behind them. Attitude wise and ability wise I think we’re way ahead of where we were last year. “We haven’t gotten into the games and we’ve still got a long way to go, but they’ve been impressive during summer workouts.
Wildcats
“Our practices have been good. If we play good defense, which we haven’t done in the years I’ve been here, I think we can be respectable. We’re in a tough region though, and that really hurts us.” Residents of the community who enjoy watching high school football and supporting the Wildcats have likely marked Aug. 30 on their calendars, as Tharptown will host the Phil Campbell Bobcats in the first-ever meeting of the two teams. As far as the players to watch out for on the Wildcats’ sideline this year, locals will have no trouble recognizing them. “Kelby [Hallmark] is always one to watch because he gets a lot done,” Smith said. “Edgar [Bahena] was our MVP last year. “He had a great year receiving and scoring, and he was our leading tackler on defense. “Right now he’s out and we don’t think we’ll have him for our jamboree game, but maybe by the Phil Campbell game we will. “On the line Tallen Carden and Alex Hamilton should be good. Defensively, Patrick Tharp, Mike Rice and our three linebackers I think will all be pretty decent. “They’re young, but they’re good kids.”
AHSAA Class 1A, Region 8 2011 Record: 0-10 COACH
Bill Smith Veteran head coach Bill Smith will look to turn things around for the Wildcats this season after a disappointing 0-10 run last year. Smith is entering his third year at Tharptown and has a record of 2-18 with the Wildcats. He has a career record of 164-214.
The Game Plan
20
2012 Tharptown Wildcats football schedule
The Game Plan
8/30
Phil Campbell
home
9/7
Vina
home
9/14
Waterloo
away
9/21
Decatur Heritage
home
9/28
Cherokee
away
10/5
R.A. Hubbard
home
10/12
Shoals Christian
away
10/19
Phillips
home
10/26
Hackleburg
away
11/2
Alabama School for the Deaf
away 21
No. 2
No. 3
No. 5
No. 9
No. 10
No. 11
No. 12
Drake Lawson
Morgan Sharp
Chris Rickard
Bailey Whitman
Kelby Hallmark
Heath Hatton
Juan Cuevas
Sophomore
Sophomore
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Freshman
Freshman
No. 14
No. 18
No. 20
No. 22
No. 24
No. 32
No. 35
Blake Gray
John Downer
Tristen Smith
Carlos Mentes
Eduardo Lopez
Mike Rice
Colby King
Freshman
Junior
Sophomore
Sophomore
Freshman
Sophomore
Freshman
No. 44
No. 51
No. 52
No. 54
No. 55
No. 60
No. 61
Matthew Brasuell
Tallen Carden
Patrick Tharp
Arturo Meneses
Michael Burgett
Lionel Lucas
Tristan Love
Freshman
Senior
Senior
Sophomore
Sophomore
Senior
Sophomore
No. 62
No. 65
No. 66
No. 67
No. 72
No. 74
No. 78
Mikie Palmer
Alex Hamilton
Brian George
Emilio Bahena
Jonah White
Fidel Bonilla
Drue Gandy
Eighth Grade
Junior
Senior
Senior
Sophomore
Sophomore
Senior
Not Pictured: Orlando Diaz Edgar Bahena
The Game Plan
22
Campbell Vision Center www.campbellvisioncenter.com • Primary eye care • Treatment and diagnosis of disease
F or appointments call
• Full line of prescription eyeglasses & contact lenses
14378 Highway 43
• Most insurances accepted
The Game Plan
256-332-1355 the intersection of 43 & Lawrence
Go Team!!
23
Vina The Vina Red Devils had a 2-8 season last year, one that the team will be looking to improve upon. Two major factors that will be going against the team is the number of players it has and the size of those players. These problems make perfect sense when the school in question is one of the smallest high schools in the state, so naturally the talent pool is not as deep as it is at larger schools with higher enrollments. Still, the Red Devils will band together as a unit as always to bring about the best possible results in the upcoming games. “I expect the kids to play hard and give lots of effort,” head coach James Pharr said. Pharr is in his third season as the head coach of the Red Devils. What may be surprising to those that may not know is Pharr is the principal of Vina High School, a rare combination in the world of high school athletics these days. Vina has only around 16 players on the roster, so keeping players fit and healthy will be a top priority. “We’re going to take it one ballgame at a time and do our very best in each one of
The Game Plan
Red Devils them,” Pharr said. According to Pharr, some of his players to watch this season are Cody Renfrow, Andrew Hester, Tyler Hammock, John Spencer and Tyler Childers. “There are some pretty good kids in that group,” he said. Vina is 4-16 under Pharr and boasts only three seniors this season, but the scrappy team is still likely to find a way to win games this season. “I think the season will turn out well,” Pharr said. Week two will be a key match-up for Vina, as the Red Devils travel across Franklin County to play region rival Tharptown on Sept. 7. Tharptown head coach Bill Smith was head coach of the Red Devils for 10 seasons before moving to take the helm of the Wildcats. Something that the Red Devils will have to get used to is playing without quarterback Adam Pharr, a staple of athletics at Vina over the past few years. Vina’s season opener will be a home game against the Cherokee Indians on Aug. 31. Cherokee won by just two points in the match-up last season.
AHSAA Class 1A, Region 8 2011 Record: 2-8 COACH
James Pharr This will be Coach Pharr’s third year at the helm of the Red Devils. Vina went 2-8 last season and will look to improve on that mark, but its number of players may put Vina at a disadvantage. The Red Devils are 4-16 under Coach Pharr over the past two seasons. 24
2012 Vina Red Devils football schedule
The Game Plan
8/31
Cherokee
home
9/7
Tharptown
away
9/14
Shoals Christian
home
9/21
Phillips
away
9/28
Brilliant
home
10/5
Hackleburg
home
10/12
R.A. Hubbard
away
10/19
Decatur Heritage
home
10/26
Waterloo
away
11/2
Hubbertville
away 25
No. 7
No. 8
No. 10
No. 12
No. 13
No. 22
Tyler Renfrow
Andrew Hester
Cody Renfrow
Justin Garrett
Drake Hester
Hunter Haithcock
Tyler Hammock
Eighth Grade
Junior
Senior
Junior
Junior
Sophomore
Senior
No. 30
No. 31
No. 51
No. 63
No. 66
No. 70
No. 78
Brody Roberts
Daniel Wooten
Andrew Upton
Hunter Lewis
Ryan Smith
Casey Poores
John Spencer
Senior
Sophomore
Eighth Grade
Sophomore
Junior
Junior
Sophomore
No. 3
Not Pictured: Tyler Childers
No. 79
No. 82
Travis Smith
Dakota Riley
Sophomore
Sophomore
Wishing Everyone a Winning Season!! Johnny Mack Morrow State Representative District 18 (Colbert & Franklin County)
Johnny Mack Morrow and Colby Wilson at Alabama’s Homecoming football game against Vanderbilt in October.
The Game Plan
26
Good Luck This Season!
Serving Franklin County for over 50 years
Thank you for your Support! 256-332-2052 • 12805 Highway 43 • Russellville, AL
JOE M. TUCKER CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT, P.C.
509 N. JACKSON AVE. • P.O. BOX 866 • RUSSELLVILLE
PHONE: 256-332-2004 • JOEMTUCKERCPA.COM
Emmanuel Furniture Great Prices Everyday! (256) 332-4888 Hours: Mon.-Sat. 9:00 - 6:00
Go rs! e Tig
111 E. Lawrence St. • Russellville Hablamos Espanol
The Game Plan
Louis Monterroso
27
Russellville Cheerleaders Contributed The members of the 2012-13 RHS Cheerleading Squad are (left to right) back row: Brooklyn Hall, Hannah Prince, Morgan Willingham, Caitlyn Tompkins, Kennedy Palmer, Lynsi Bragwell, Lacey Oliver; middle row: Nicole Crittenden, Anna Tompkins Co-Captain, Caitlan Smith - Captain, Lauren Reynolds - Co-Captain, Julie Masterson; front row: Michaela Cox, Stacy Godsey-Champ and Brooke Smith.
We Support All Area Teams! Malia Gist
Jordan Gist
Seniors
The Blossom Shop off R Russellville, ll iill IInc.
We Specialize in: Weddings • Home Decor Funeral Fresh & Silk Flowersand Specialty Gifts. 105 Cotaco St. NE • Russellville • 256-331-0030 The Game Plan
We deliver to all areas of Franklin County & Shoals area 28
Phil Campbell Cheerleaders J.R. Tidwell/FCT The members of the 2012-13 Phil Campbell Cheerleading Squad are (left to right) front row: Jessie Plunkett, Lexie Thompson; second row: Lauren Swinney; third row: Karli Hill, Andrea Gugate, Mia Hutcheson, Meaghan Hardy; back row: Taylor Allen, Madison Hardy and Chloe Brown.
Red Bay Cheerleaders J.R. Tidwell/FCT Members of the 201213 Red Bay High School Cheeleading Squad are Lexy Lindsey - Captain, Alyssa Hutchison Co-Captain, Emma Howard, Hannah McKinney, Mary Katherine Markham, Clair Kennedy, Jodi Page, Paige Lewey, Allyson Elliott, Hannah Stockton, Carley Hopkins and MaRanda Burgett.
The Game Plan
29
Tharptown Cheerleaders Contributed
The 2012-13 Tharptown High School Cheerleaders are Captain Logan Tverberg, Co-Captain Lauren Wilkinson, BreAnna Taylor, Erica Valdez, Veronica Gomez, Brianna Hester and Abby Looney.
The Game Plan
30
The Marching Hundred
Contributed The Russellville High School Marching Hundred’s halftime performance for the 2012 season will feature music from The Jackson Five including the duet “Reach Out and Touch Someone’s Hand;” “Never Can Say Goodbye;” “I Want You Back,” featuring the low brass, percussion and color guard; “ABC” and “Rockin’ Robin,” featuring the majorettes and dance line; and the closing ballad “I’ll be There.” The band is under the direction of Gary McNutt. Assistant directors are Jeremy Willis and Scott Stephenson. Members of the RHS Marching Hundred include: Drum Major: Matthew Sewell, Majorettes: Katelynn Gordon (capt), Mary Beth Nichols and Laurel Wade (capt); Tigerettes: Lauren Alford, Sarah Aycock, Maggie Coan (capt), Michaela Fish, Mikaila Fuller, Aaliyah Gholston, Kiyah Herlong, Taylor Hollimon, Shelby Hovater, Devin Jones, Erin Masterson (capt), Savannah Mills, Camille Mosley, Shelby Stephens, Peyton Vaughn and Lexi Williams; Color Guard: Casey Brandenburg, Shelby Cooper, Mercedes Cortez, Ariel Cummings, Sara Fisher (capt), Shannea Flanagan, Hannah George, Whitni Lasseter, Haley Mansell, Brianna McCullar (capt), Jessica McSpadden, Hannah Pace, Ashley Prince, Madison Thompson and Blake Williams. Flutes: Kiomari Chevez, Emili Crummie, Taylor Fretwell, Brenda Moreno, Anna Nieto, Leah Nix and Alyssa Shackelford; Clarinets: Giovana Ambrosio, Hannah Bendall, Alyssa
The Game Plan
Gentry, Jessica Itter, Ana Karen Lara-Cruz, Stephanie Monterroso, Kira Morrow, Ana Perez, Jenna Sornberger, McCalah Uptain and Danielle Young; Saxophones: Andrea Ashley-Sabastian, Adam Bendall, Richard Behena, Blake Bishop, Hunter Butler, Lesley Gonzalez, Junior Herlong, Caroline Holliman, Belen Paniagua-Sanchez, Hannah Rickard, Ashley Rose, Hannah Swinney and Tanner Vandiver; Trumpets: Tiffany Dean, Jorge Flores-Zavaleta, Drake Glenn, Micah Malone, Bernie Moussad, Kaylee Rickard, Brett Suddith, Chelsea Suddith, Evan Swinney and Megan Woodard; Mellophones: Chloe Brownell, Charlie Gordon, Shea Newell, Hannah Pierce and Melanie Ramirez; Trombones: Maria Behena, Ryan Ballard, Salvador Blanco, Austin Darling, Daniel Jenkins, Sam Johnson and John Sheffield; Baritones: Bobbi Duncan, Chance Fretwell, Kimberly Lemus, David Sanchez, Anthony Smith and Reale Wilson; Tubas: Dakota Bonn, Dylan Burbey, Michael Sewell and Danny Wilkerson; Drum Line: James Aycock (capt), Jake Davis, Hank Forsythe, Brodie Green, Andrew Guinn, Jess Guzman, Victoria Jackson, Shanley Pounders, Anna C. Smith and Colby Spain. Front Ensemble: Blaze Bishop, Jordan Cantrell, Kylynn Channel, Cree Hamilton, Brady Johnson (capt), Christian King, Josh King, Alexander Smith; Managers: TeLeah Demastus and Jessica Hutchins; Symphonic Band: Katherine Cole, TaLeah Demastus, Evelynn Garcia, Kayla Hughes, Jessica Hutchins, Alex Longmire, Cody Madden, Nelda Isabel Otzoy, Anna M. Smith and Amy Stafford.
31
The Phil Campbell Band J.R. Tidwell/FCT The Phil Campbell High School Marching Bobcat Band will get halftime crowds pumped up this year with a show entitled “The Contender” where the band will tell the story of a boxer who has to figure out how to become more than just a mere boxer but a true champion contender. Music for the show will feature selections from the “Rocky” movies, music from the classic thriller “Psycho,” and some original music. The band is under the direction of Bobby Patrick. Instructional staff includes: Kaitlyn Patrick - color guard; Jeremy Smith, Blake Lankford, Colin Hughes and Jesse Sims – percussion; Tyler Gean, Katherine Martin, Sarah Hurst, Ryan Collins, James McCullough and Christian James - horns and visual. Band members include: Alex Jackson, Joshua James, Reyna Shook, Ivy Ozbirn, Allison Harvey, Denver Mohr, Amber Landers, Will Clark, Amber Criddle, Grace Harvey, Hayley Kuykendall, Faith Seal, Madison Sutherland, Amber Haithcock, Michaela Holland, Kaylee Allen, Miranda Jackson, Jasmin Kinard, Savannah Marbutt, Scarlett Ozbirn, Hannah Pharr, Haley Scott, Cody Haithcock, Austin Hester, Rocky Wilson, Kaitlyn Clark, Haleigh Moses, Kim Seals, Paxton Allen, Loyal Dean, Jessica Clement, Lucas Hurst, Dillion Jackson, Andrew Oden, Dylan Stidham, Lauryn Clark, Jacob Litteral, Stephanie McKee, Danielle Cornelius, Matt Wilson, Isabella O’Neal, Laura Harvey, Landon Wilson and Ben Pierce.
The Red Bay Band Contributed This year, the Red Bay Band’s halftime show will feature a Latin theme with song selections including “Estancia,” “Livin’ La Vida Loca,” and “El Zoro.” The band is under the direction of Erin Gilbert. The auxillary sponsor is Jennifer Oliver. The drum major is Tererra Vanderford. The 2012-2013 Red Bay Band members are Maggie Bates, Ashton Burney, Levi Burney, Jason Byrd, Megan Cain, Ashley Clements, Sommer Elrod, Madison Fierro, Alisha Ginn, Morgan Gray, Montana Gray, Destiny Higgins, Anna Jackson, Abbey Jones, Krista Lindsay, Nicha Luster, Emily McKinney, Mary Elizabeth Moore, Brock Ray, Ethan Ray, Nicolas Scott, Dalton Self, Brooke Shewbart, Bayden Six, Amber Stevens, Tayteonna Terry, Tererra Vanderford, Bryson Wallace, Cindy Wallace, Eliza Williams and Sarah Williams.
The Game Plan
32
Best Wishes & Best of Luck from
Russellville Utilities 721 Jackson Avenue South • 256-332-3850
Backaches Sports Injury Physical Exams D.O.T. Exams Headaches Drug/Alcohol Testing Now Offering
Spinal Decompression
256-331-0208 • Jackson Ave, Russelville
WOOTEN CHIROPRAC
IC
All Area Teams Have a Great Season! In Business Since 1975
www.hlasp.com
Specialize in Any Type Plumbing, Repairs & Service Residential or Commercial
256-332-0198 • 3001 Hwy. 77 • Russellville 256-760-3392 • 122 N. Royal Ave. • Florence If it don’t Drain call Lane 24 Hour Emergency Service
g n i h Wis a e n yo r e v E AT E R G LL A B T O O F !!! ! N O S A E S
Franklin Electric Cooperatives
Russellville • 256-332-2730 Red Bay • 256-356-4413
The Game Plan
33
Lions look to make statement under Wallace
North Alabama Lions
The buzz around Florence when head coach Terry Bowden was at the helm of the UNA Lions was not always positive. There was some talk by individuals that suggested sending Bowden on his way before he left for Akron after last season. At the heart of the argument was disagreements on Bowden’s recruiting methods. The coach had a penchant for signing players from larger schools who had to drop to a lower division for one reason or another. Players may have left larger Division I schools because of lack of playing time or some Photo courtesy of akind of academic or personal Malisa McClure problem that got the player booted from the original school. Janoris Jenkins, a cornerback from the University of Florida who transferred to UNA last season after getting in trouble with the school, is the perfect example of the problem with having too many transfer players on the roster.
Bobby Wallace
Good Luck Teams!
These guys, for the most part, would come to UNA simply to keep playing football, usually in the hopes of having a shot at the NFL after college. While Jenkins made that system pay off, many transfer players have no loyalty to the team and have no respect for their academic responsibilities. Academics standards are much more lax in Division II than in the FBS or FCS, so many transfer players across the country simply play the system and let their grades slip. When current Lions head coach Bobby Wallace returned to UNA, he vowed that not only would he give the edge in recruiting to local talent, but all of his players would be held to a higher academic standing than under Bowden. The Lions are out to prove that the local talent is just as good if not better than having a roster filled with Div. I transfers.
Steven D. Hammack, D.M.D. General Dentistry Adults & Children P.O. Box 367 Russellville, AL 35653
Juniors & Ladies Apparel • Jewelry •Shoes •Accessories 256-332-3040
9905 Hwy. 43 S.• Russellville
Martha M arth Ingram 256-332-1136 • Toll Free 1-866-332-1136 15480 Hwy. 43, Suite B • Russellville
Location: 531 St. Clair Street Phone: (256) 332-6888
BAR-B-Q • CATFISH PORK • CHICKEN FINGERS
Call 256-332-3619 to see what’s showing. Hwy 43 • Russellville
The Game Plan
Home of the World Famous Chicken Finger & Dipping Sauce Dine in or Carry out Open: Mon.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
13670 Hwy. 43 • Russellville 256-332-3380 34
2012 UNA Lions football schedule
The Game Plan
9/2
Miles College
neutral
9/8
Harding
home
9/15
Kentucky Christian
home
9/22
Delta State
away
9/29
Shorter
home
10/6
Texas A&M-Kingsville
away
10/13
Valdosta State
home
10/18
West Georgia
away
11/3
Tarleton State
home
11/8
West Alabama
away 35
Crimson Tide looks to ‘rebuild’ after championship Nick Saban
Last year Alabama won the 2012 BCS National Championship by defeating the LSU Tigers 21-0 in blowout fashion. It might not have looked like a blowout on the scoreboard, but any fan of football who watched that game saw the LSU offense get utterly decimated by the surging Alabama defense. There were many jokes and comments made on LSU’s inability to cross midfield in the rematch of the 9-6 overtime “Game of the Century,” but all they end up proving is how dominant the Crimson Tide defense was that night. Winning a national championship means that there is nowhere else to go but down (unless you repeat), and that’s exactly where Alabama’s defense is in danger of heading. The group that stonewalled the potent Bayou Bengal offense lost several key players, including linebackers Dont’A Hightower and Courtney Upshaw, nose tackle Josh Chapman, cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick and safety Mark Barron. As talented as Alabama may be on the depth chart, losing that many quality defensive players is likely to
have an effect on the Crimson Tide defense. A major plus on the offensive side of the ball is the return of starting quarterback A.J. McCarron, who has proved time and again that he can lead his team to victory. The biggest loss on offense for the Tide is running back Trent Richardson. Despite these key losses, Alabama will likely have a top five defense this season along with a high-end record. The dominance of the SEC in college football does not appear as if it will end this season, and Alabama has a legitimate shot to go all the way to the championship game yet again. What stands in the way is the SEC West, which is without question the strongest individual division within the strongest football conference in the country. LSU proved last year that any team that ends a regular season in the SEC West with an undefeated conference record might as well be given an automatic spot in the championship, a fact that the nation has learned over the past six-straight years of SEC football dominance.
Supporting our local teams! 310 Jackson Ave. N. Russellville
256-332-3220 207 4th Ave. SE Red Bay
256-356-8771 The Game Plan
15347 Hwy. 43 Russellville
256-332-1108 36
Auburn looks to improve after 4-4 SEC record Gene Chizik’s hire was met with mixed emotions back in 2009 when he took the helm of an Auburn team that had seen its fair share of success under former coach Tommy Tuberville. It is true that Auburn has gone 30-10 under Chizik over the past three years (including winning the 2011 BCS National Championship), but the current 15-9 SEC record under the coach does not look quite as impressive. The first and third seasons under Chizik are what makes for this record, as the Tigers went 3-5 and 4-4 respectively in conference play in those two seasons. Auburn went from going 14-0 and winning the national championship two years ago to barely beating Utah State in a come-from-behind game that left many of the Auburn faithful shaking their heads. Hitting rough patches are inevitable when playing a schedule like the ones handed out to the SEC West members each season, and the addition of Texas A&M to the schedule is not likely to make things any easier on the likes of Auburn,
The Game Plan
Alabama and LSU. Most of the talk and hype over the SEC leading up to this season has again revolved around Alabama and LSU, the top two projected finishers in the SEC. Given the strength of those two teams, there are those that say the SEC West (and the National Championship) will yet again come down to which of those two wins the game this season. Auburn proved that it had a claim to be heralded as a top team in both the SEC and the nation in 2010-11, but having a .500 conference record will not get you anywhere past the Chick-Fil-A Bowl. The Tigers have some strong talent returning on both sides of the ball this fall, but Auburn’s problem tends to be that it has several pieces but cannot complete the entire puzzle. Both sides of the ball have to be equally strong (for the most part) to win out in the SEC West, and Auburn must decide who its starting quarterback is, back him up as THE man and let him run the offense, provided he has the ability. The defense must also improve this season.
Gene Chizik
37
2011 12-1 overall, 7-1 in the SEC – Second in the SEC Western Division, defeated LSU in the BCS National Championship Game Projected finish Second in the Western Division Briefly The Crimson Tide will look to return to championship caliber this season under experienced QB A.J. McCarron, but without several key defenders from 2011.
“We’ve obviously learned a lot at Alabama over the last five years. The most important thing we’ve learned is you got to stay on top of the little things. Things don’t happen by accident. You don’t win a play by accident. You don’t win a game by accident. You don’t win a division by accident. You have to make it happen, and you have to make it happen by what you do every day.” Nick Saban Players say “A.J.’s starting to become a vocal leader on the team. Last year, it was harder for him to be a leader because there was a question of who was going to be the quarterback, but the way he came into Beaver Stadium before everyone against Penn State, you could just see he was going to be a leader. We threw more responsibility on him as the year went on, culminating in the national championship. He’s working hard this summer and setting the example for the younger guys on how to work, what to do.” Center Barrett Jones
Key players returning Barrett Jones (OL), A.J. McCarron (QB), Robert Lester (S), Nico Johnson (LB) and D.J. Fluker (RT). The Crimson Tide has 12 returning starters from last year’s “(On preparing for a championship letdown) Us as leaders, most of us now were National Championship winning team. there in 2010 and we saw what can happen, what complacency did to us. We’re Key losses Dont’a Hightower (LB), Courtney very imminent to not let this happen to this Upshaw (LB), Mark Barron (S), Trent year’s team.” Tight end Michael Williams Richardson (RB), Dre Kirkpatrick (CB), Marquis Maze (WR), Brad Smelley (TE), You might not know William Vlachos (OL) and Josh Chapman (NT). The Crimson Tide lost 12 starters If Alabama becomes bowl eligible this season, they will have made 60 bowl from last year’s team. appearances, a recurring NCAA record for the Crimson Tide. Coach says
up here, I think we’re in a much stronger position as a football team than we were a year ago. I really believe that. I think one of the reasons that we are there is that, you know, we finally, in my opinion, after so many years, have developed some depth and we’ve got a little bit of experience.” Gene Chizik Players say (On the new offense): “It’s completely different. It’s more of a pro style offense, more under center than what we did last year. It’s a totally different Projected finish field on the offense. I like it; I love it. It’s Fourth in the Western Division going to give me more opportunities to make some plays and more plays in the Briefly The Tigers will look to improve on last passing game in general.” Wide receiver Emory Blake year’s 8-5 performance, especially the 4-4 SEC record. The biggest question is how well the new offense from coordina- “I think I’m getting back to a more traditor Scot Loeffler will work in a conference tional tight end. I’m still doing a lot of the same stuff as I’ve done in the past, being packed with talent on defense. in the backfield, motioning around, and the same type of blocking, but I’m also Key players returning Philip Lutzenkirchen (TE), Ontero more involved in the pass game this year McCalebb (RB), Emory Blake (WR), as opposed to what I’ve done in the past.” Tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen Daren Bates (LB), T’Sharvan Bell (DB), Nosa Eguae (DE), Corey Lemonier (DE) You might not know and Trovon Reed (WR). The Tigers have 18 returning starters from last year’s team. Terry Bowden has the best winning percentage in the 20th Century among Auburn coaches who coached at least Key losses Eltoro Freeman (LB), Brandon Mosley two seasons. Bowden compiled a .731 (OL), Neiko Thorpe (S) and A.J. Greene (47-17-1) record. (OL). The Tigers lost six starters from last Mike Donahue is a very close second with a .730 (99-35-5). Dye comes in third year’s team. with .711 (99-39-4), and Shug comes in fourth at .675 (176-83-6) in his days at Coach says “I think a year ago today, as I stood Auburn. 2011 8-5 overall, 4-4 in the SEC – Fourth in the SEC Western Division
The Game Plan
2011 11-2 overall, 6-2 in the SEC – Third in the SEC Western Division Projected finish Third in the Western Division Briefly The Razorbacks will look to stay in form after the success of last season. The Razorbacks offense will likely relvolve around the ability of quarterback Tyler Wilson and running back Knile Davis, who returns from an ankle injury. Key players returning Tyler Wilson (QB), Knile Davis (RB), Tenarius Wright (LB), Kobi Hamilton (WR) and Alonzo Highsmith (LB). The Razorbacks return 16 starters from last year’s squad. Key losses Joe Adams (WR), Jarius Wright (WR), Jake Bequette (DE), Jerry Franklin (LB) and Tramain Thomas (S). The Razorbacks lost nine starters from last year’s squad.
like I said, our senior class is tremendous as far as their leading. I think they took a little adversity they had, they locked up, came together, said, We’re going to be better because of it, and that’s what they’ve done. I think that has continued this summer.“ John L. Smith Players say “(On dealing with the coaching change) “I’ve handled it well. I think we’ve handled it pretty well as a team. I think if anything’s happened from the coaching change, I think we’ve gotten closer. I think we had a good replacement in John L. (Smith). I think it’s great that he kept the coaching staff that we already had so the transition has been easier than most people think.” Running back Knile Davis “(On handling the pressure and expectations of being an elite quarterback and an elite offense) I think we handle them like we’ve always handled them, that’s embrace the expectations and embrace the hype a little bit. This year being a little unique with the situation that’s occurred, we’re taking it upon ourselves to continue to work hard and be in that conversation late in the year. That’s what matters. It’s not what kind of conversation you’re in now. It’s what kind of conversation you’re in there at the end.” Quarterback Tyler Wilson
You might not know Coach says This will be John L. Smith’s first season “As I came back after spring ball, the at the helm of the Razorbacks. The last energy in the room, the energy around the head-coaching spot Smith had in the FBS players, has been exceptional. I know, was at Michigan State in 2006. weight room, the attitude of our football team, the discipline of our team, we’re headed in the right direction.” Will Muschamp Players say “(On coming into this season as lead back knowing he will have more carries) 2011 It’s not any more difficult. I am a senior so 7-6 overall, 3-5 in the SEC – Third in I also have to be a leader more than anythe SEC Eastern Division thing by keeping my team up and keeping them going. There is no feeling like that. I Projected finish do extra things just because I know that I Third in the Eastern Division am going to get the ball like [working] on getting out there with both teams and takBriefly ing care of my body.” The Florida Gators will look to rebound Running back Mike Gillislee after going 3-5 in the SEC last season under then first-year head coach Will “It’s hard to tell which one [of the quarMuschamp, a former defensive coordina- terbacks] is the best. It’s going to be a tor at Auburn. The Gators will have to find tough decision. They all bring something Jonathan Brantley’s replacement at QB. different to the table that you can really go along with. Jacoby [Brissett] has got Key players returning the strong arm so you can throw it down Andre Debose (WR), Trey Burton field. You even have Tyler Murphy who (RB), Dominique Easley (DT) and Jelani is ready to be an immediate manager. He Jenkins (LB). Florida has 19 returning just brings that mentality and the smarts starters. with a lot of plays. He can recognize defenses right off the back. You’ve got Key losses Jeff [Driskel] as well that can kill you with Jonathan Brantley (QB), Chris Rainey his feet. He is one those quarterbacks (RB), Deonte Thompson (WR), Jaye that can keep plays alive all day and really Howard (NT), Jeff Demps (RB) and Dan gets the coverages he wants because he Wenger (OL). The Gators lost five start- can run.” ers. Linebacker Jon Bostic Coach says You might not know “I do feel like we have built a very solid Eric Rhett rushed for 4,163 yards durfoundation for where we were headed. ing his career at Florida, making him the We did not get the results we wanted on school’s all-time leading rusher. Emmitt the field. I feel like in the locker room, the Smith is in second place with 3,928 yards.
38
2010 position from a leadership standpoint, but 6-7 overall, 3-5 in the SEC – Third in I’m more excited for the players because the SEC Eastern Division I know what type of work they’ve put in.” Mark Richt Projected finish Second in the Eastern Division Players say “(On if he’ll have a breakout season) I certainly have to step up to my level of play. I think that I’m going to do that and continue to be consistent for this team. 2011 Malcolm (Mitchell) is a big blow 10-4 overall, 7-1 in the SEC – First in Losing to our offense, but my group of guys the SEC Eastern Division as receivers, I’ve got Michael Bennett, Marlon Brown and Rantavious Wooten; Projected finish those group of guys are ones that you can First in the Eastern Division count on week-in and week-out. I feel like we can do a good job though.” Wide Receiver Tavarres King Briefly The Bulldogs will look to continue the “(On the importance of the defensive success they had last season under junior line) Those guys are very important. They quarterback Aaron Murray, but without the prepare as highly as I do. They really do help of 10 lost starters from last season. the dirty work. I’m out on the outer side by myself with the one-on-one with the tackKey players returning really do the dirty work; they’re in Aaron Murray (QB), Bacarri Rambo (S), le. They grind with 600 pounds on them every Tavarres King (WR), Malcolm Mitchell the That’s really the hard part. They’re (CB), Jarvis Jones (LB), Alec Ogletree play. against two or three people, getting (LB) and Michael Gilliard (LB). The going double teamed every play. I really give Bulldogs have 16 starters returning. all of my credit to them, coming off of the edge, getting free and making plays. My Key losses really sacrifice on defense for Brandon Boykin (CB), Orson Charles teammates the outside linebacker.” (TE), Isaiah Crowell (RB), Ben Jones (OL) Linebacker Jarvis Jones and DeAngelo Tyson (DE). The Bulldogs lost 10 starters. You might not know The Bulldogs have never gone undeCoach says in the SEC under head coach Mark “As far as this season is concerned, I’m featedThe closest Georgia has come was excited as always. Going into the 12th Richt. in 2002 and 2011, with the Bulldogs comseason at Georgia is a blessing. It’s an honor to be able to be in that piling a 7-1 conference record both years. up. They’re practicing and working in the heat. I like how the back end of this thing is going to go. We’re two weeks away from reporting, looking forward to getting the academics squared away, finishing strong. I think we’re in position to put the team on the field that we need.” Les Miles Players say “(On moving on after the national cham2011 pionship loss) It was a disappointing end13-1 overall, 8-0 in the SEC – First in the ing, but if you dwell on the past, you can’t SEC Western Division, lost to Alabama in move on. We’re trying to just do better the BCS National Championship Game things this year and move on.” Wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. Projected finish First in the Western Division “(On the move from backup to starter) Every day, I try to get better. Definitely, Briefly being third string and knowing that you’re LSU must break in a new quarterback not going to get a lot of reps in practice Zack Mettenberger after the departure of and that you won’t play on Saturdays Jordan Jefferson. unless something happens, being the starter is something I’ve been looking Key players returning forward to all my life, and I’m just trying to Spencer Ware (RB), Eric Reed (S), give it my all every day.” Odell Beckham (WR), Russell Shepard Quarterback Zach Mettenberger (WR), Sam Montgomery (DE), Chris Faulk (OT) and Bennie Logan (DT). The “I’m just ready to put some shoulder Tigers have 14 starters returning from last pads on again, man. Being a football year’s squad. player, it’s strange not putting those shoulder pads on during the summer so I’m just Key losses looking forward to camp.” Tyrann Mathieu (CB), Jordan Jefferson Safety Eric Reid (QB), Morris Claiborne (CB), Rueben Randall (WR), Deangelo Peterson (WR), You might not know Michael Brockers (DT), Ryan Baker (LB), Les Miles has been the head coach at and Brandon Taylor (S). The Tigers lost LSU for eight years now. Prior to this he 12 starters from last year’s squad. was the head coach at Oklahoma State from 2001-2004, where he amassed a Coach says record of 28-21. “Our weight is down, our strength is
The Game Plan
last four games, what also makes you excited, for some reason or another, there were a lot of true freshmen, true sophomores, that were thrust into playing time, playing significant roles on our football team, whether it be offense, defense or special teams. Of those last four games, you saw a lot of those guys making huge plays for us. That’s what gets us excited.” Joker Phillips 2011 Players say 5-7 overall, 2-6 in the SEC – Tied for “(On Coach Phillips’ intensity) He cares fourth in the SEC Eastern Division about the program and about us so much. It shows in everything that he does. He Projected finish eats, sleeps and breathes Kentucky footSeventh in the Eastern Division ball. He cares about this program so much, and he shows it on the field with Briefly the intensity that he brings. It’s crazy how The Wildcats are still looking for their much he loves this program, and we are first winning season under third-year head better for it.” coach Joker Phillips. Offensive guard Larry Warford Key players returning Mister Cobble (DT), CoShik Williams (RB), Collins Ukwu (DE), Mikie Benton (S), Donte Rumph (DT), Martavius Neloms (S) and La’Rod King (WR). The Wildcats have 12 starters from last year’s team returning.
“(On the defensive lines in the SEC) They are tough. They are all big. They are all NFL quality defensive tackles so I know that every week it’s not going to get any better. They are going to be the same size guys. We are going to have to come ready to play or we are going to get beat. It’s just a matter of being ready to play Key losses every week.” Winston Guy (S), Billy Joe Murphy (OL), Center Matt Smith Danny Trevathan (LB) and Ridge Wilson (LB). The Wildcats lost 12 starters from You might not know last year’s team. The Wildcats will host the Samford Bulldogs on Nov. 17 at Commonwealth Coach says Stadium. This will be the first-ever meet“We’re excited about this upcoming ing of the two teams. This will be the third season. Again, what makes us excited is team Kentucky faces in the 2012 season how we finished last season. Our last four with the nickname Bulldogs (Miss. State, games last year we were 2-2. Of those Georgia). ers. Coach says “It’s a humbling thing to be here. My track is not the normal track to get to this point. I recognize that. I’m a realist. I also remember how blessed I really am and how fortunate I am to stand before you to represent Ole Miss and our great university and Rebel Nation.” Hugh Freeze 2011 Players say 2-10 overall, 0-8 in the SEC – Sixth in “(On the schedule) You can’t overlook the SEC Western Division anybody. You have to take each game like you are playing the best team in the country. You have to look at it like that Projected finish and prepare for each game and each Seventh in the Western Division opponent that week.” Linebacker Mike Marry Briefly Mississippi will look to turn things around “(On the new attitude and effort of the this season under new head coach Hugh team) Attitude has changed a lot on the Freeze, who has a 30-7 record (Lambuth, team. We have guys actually ready to Arkansas State) as a head coach and a practice. They are ready to go to weights, 18-1 conference record. ready to go to 7 on 7. That changes a lot. This team has come together. It takes Key players returning effort every morning to get up and go to Donte Moncrief (WR), Patrick Junen workouts and that has changed.” (OL), Ferbia Allen (TE), Randall Mackey Defensive back Charles Sawyer (QB),Jeff Scott (RB). Joel Kight (LB), Bryon Bennett DT), Mike Marry (LB), “(On how he can contribute this year) Aaron Garbutt (S), Charles Sawyer (S) my goal is to get my team first downs and and Wesley Pendleton (CB). The Rebels make big plays and try to be the receiver are returning 15 starters. wherever they need me.” Wide receiver Donte Moncrief Key losses Damien Jackson (LB), Wayne Dorsey You might not know (DE), Matt Hall (OL), Kentrell Lockett Ole Miss was founded in Oxford, Miss., (DE), Bobby Massie (OL), Justin Smith in 1848. The Rebels first-ever football (NT), Bradley Sowell (OT) and Marcus game was a 10-0 loss to the Arkansas Temple (CB). The Rebels lost nine start- Aggies on Oct. 1, 1915.
39
gram, in the direction we’re heading, the great leadership we have within our athletic department and university with brandnew 80,000 square feet football facility opening up in January, stadium expansion that is going to start after the last home game this year.” Dan Mullen Players say “I think watching the older guys and seeing the things that they did and what they did when things weren’t going really well 2011 and the things that they did when things 7-6 overall, 2-6 in the SEC – Fifth in were going good. Just being out there and the SEC Western Division the experience I’ve had and I’ve played in some games and just, it’s time to be that Projected finish guy that the young guys can count on and Sixth in the Western Division they can look up to and finally being able to lead the team.” Briefly Quarterback Tyler Russell The Mississippi State Bulldogs have been on the upswing with head coach ““There will be some changes in the Dan Mullen at the helm. defense. We have guys coming in – last year I don’t think we played as hard; we Key players returning weren’t as physical as we have been Kaleb Eulls (DE), Chad Bumphis (WR), in the past. I think there will be some Gabe Jackson (OL), Dillon Day (OL), Josh changes, we have better leadership Boyd (DT), Deonte Skinner (LB), Corey roles, myself, I have taken the defense, Broomfield (CB) and Arceto Clark (WR). and I have made us work harder. I think The Bulldogs have 13 starters returning we have guys who have bought into the this season. program. We have guys that are going to go out there and play harder and faster.” Key losses Defensive back Johnthan Banks Vick Ballard (RB), Chris Relf (QB), Fletcher Cox (DT), Marcus Green (TE) You might not know and Brandon Wilson (LB). The Bulldogs Dan Mullen has compiled 21 wins in his lost 11 starters from last season. first three season, second-most in school history. He has led the Bulldogs to backCoach says to-back bowl wins for the first time in over I”’m really excited overall in the pro- a decade.
lost 11 starters from last year’s team. Coach says “If we can’t throw it very well, we’re not going to try to. With Marcus Lattimore coming back full speed, plus a bunch of other guys ran the ball very well. Brandon Wiles and Kenny Miles did. Whatever we need to do to try to win the games is what we have to do.” Steve Spurrier 2011 11-2 overall, 6-2 in the SEC – Second in the SEC Eastern Division.
Players say “(On replacing last year’s players) A lot of those guys are gone, we’ll miss them tremendously, but we believe we’ve got Projected finish the players that can step in and fill those Second in the Eastern Division shoes. We’ve had a good offseason, and we’re looking forward to starting camp.” Briefly Free safety D.J. Swearinger Head coach Steve Spurrier will be looking to match last year’s success this season. The Gamecocks have Marcus ““(On playing for Coach Spurrier) He’s Lattimore returning at full speed, but los- been there and done that, he’s pretty much a perfectionist. You have to have ing Alshon Jeffery will hurt the offense. thick skin, but I know that by now, and that’s what you want so that you can get Key players returning Marcus Lattimore(RB), Ace Sanders better as a player.” Quarterback Connor Shaw (WR), Connor Shaw (QB), Reginald Bowens ((LB), DeVonte Holloman (S), D.J. Swearinger (S), Shaq Wilson (LB) “(On Marcus Lattimore) I believe he’s and Devin Taylor (DE). The Gamecocks ready to go 100 percent. When I see him have 13 starters returning from last year’s lifting weights, working out, he’s back where he was before the injury, and I’m team. ready to see what he does.” .” Wide Receiver Ace Sanders Key losses Terrence Campbell (OL), Stephon Gilmore (CB), Melvin Ingram (DE), Alshon You might not know Jeffery (WR), Travian Robertson (DT), and C.C Whitlock (CB). The Gamecocks The Gamecocks won a school-record 11 games last season. Rodgers (QB), Zac Stacy (RB), Ryan Seymour (OL), Josh Jelesky (OL), Walker May (DE), Rob Lohr (DT), Colt Nichter (DT), Chase Garnham (LB), Trey Wilson (CB) and Javon Marshall (S). The Commodores have 18 starters returning from last season.
(DL), Prentiss Waggner (S) and Marsalis Teague (CB). The Volunteers have 19 starters returning from last year’s squad. Key losses Malik Jackson (DT), Austin Johnson (LB), Izauea Lanier (DB), Ben Martin (DE) and Tauren Poole (RB). The volunteers lost only five starters from last year’s squad. 2011 Coach says 5-7 overall, 1-7 in the SEC –Sixth in “I told some of the guys earlier that I the SEC Eastern Division feel better today about where we are as a program than at any point since I’ve Projected finish been in Knoxville, and I mean that. And Fourth in the Eastern Division probably the number one reason for that is for the first time we have a settled roster. Briefly Our roster’s in place. We have a full 85 on The Volunteers will look to improve scholarship, we have 19 starters back, so upon last year’s 1-7 SEC record under we have a lot of experience.” third-year head coach Derek Dooley. Derek Dooley Key players returning You might not know Tyler Bray (QB), Da’Rick Rogers Tennesse won the first BCS National (WR), Dallas Thomas (OL), Alex Bullard Championship in 1998 with quarterback (OL), Zach Fulton (OL), Daniel Hood Tee Martin running the offense. 2011 8-5 overall, 5-4 in the BIG 12 – Second in the BIG 12 Northern Division Projected finish Fourth in the Eastern Division Briefly The Missouri Tigers move from the Big 12 North to the SEC East this season. The Tigers may have a hard time running the spread against some SEC defenses.
The Game Plan
Key losses Brandon Barden (TE), Kyle Fischer (OT), Tim Fugger (DE), Casey Heyward 2011 (CB), Chris Marve (LB) and Sean 6-7 overall, 2-6 in the SEC – Tied for Richardson (S). The Commodores lost fourth in the SEC Eastern Division only six starters from last season. Projected finish Sixth in the Eastern Division
Coach says “What’s amazing about Zac is as good of a player, he’s a better person. I can Briefly say that about a lot of our guys. Zac gets The Commodores have 18 starters a lot of credit, but we play ultimate team returning from last season, including run- football at Vanderbilt.” ning back Zac Stacy. Time will tell how James Franklin well the team does under Franklin. You might not know Key players returning Running back Zac Stacy broke the team Jordan Matthews (WR), Chris Boyd record for rushing touchdowns in his first (WR), Wesley Tate (WR), Jordan season as a starter with 14. 2011 7-6 overall, 4-5 in the BIG 12 – Fifth in the BIG 12 Southern Division Projected finish Fourth in the Eastern Division Briefly The Texas A&M Aggies move from the BIG 12 South to the SEC West this season. Of the two newcomers, the Aggies have a much closer resemblance to an SEC-style team than Missouri.
40
The Game Plan
41
2012 National Football League Schedules Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
THU, SEP 20 NY Giants at Carolina SUN, SEP 23 St. Louis at Chicago Buffalo at Cleveland Tampa Bay at Dallas NY Jets at Miami San Francisco at Minnesota Kansas City at New Orleans Cincinnati at Washington Detroit at Tennessee Jacksonville at Indianapolis Philadelphia at Arizona Atlanta at San Diego Houston at Denver Pittsburgh at Oakland New England at Baltimore MON, SEP 24 Green Bay at Seattle
THU, SEP 27 Cleveland at Baltimore SUN, SEP 30 Carolina at Atlanta New England at Buffalo Minnesota at Detroit San Diego at Kansas City Seattle at St. Louis San Francisco at NY Jets Tennessee at Houston Miami at Arizona Cincinnati at Jacksonville Oakland at Denver New Orleans at Green Bay Washington at Tampa Bay NY Giants at Philadelphia MON, OCT 1 Chicago at Dallas
WED, SEP 5 Dallas at NY Giants SUN, SEP 9 Indianapolis at Chicago Philadelphia at Cleveland New England at Tennessee Atlanta at Kansas City Jacksonville at Minnesota Washington at New Orleans Buffalo at NY Jets St. Louis at Detroit Miami at Houston San Francisco at Green Bay Seattle at Arizona Carolina at Tampa Bay Pittsburgh at Denver MON, SEP 10 Cincinnati at Baltimore San Diego at Oakland
THU, SEP 13 Chicago at Green Bay SUN, SEP 16 Kansas City at Buffalo Cleveland at Cincinnati Minnesota at Indianapolis New Orleans at Carolina Houston at Jacksonville Oakland at Miami Arizona at New England Tampa Bay at NY Giants Baltimore at Philadelphia Washington at St. Louis Dallas at Seattle NY Jets at Pittsburgh Tennessee at San Diego Detroit at San Francisco MON, SEP 17 Denver at Atlanta
Week 6
Week 7
THU, OCT 11 Pittsburgh at Tennessee SUN, OCT 14 Oakland at Atlanta Cincinnati at Cleveland St. Louis at Miami Indianapolis at NY Jets Detroit at Philadelphia Dallas at Baltimore Kansas City at Tampa Bay New England at Seattle Buffalo at Arizona NY Giants at San Francisco Minnesota at Washington Green Bay at Houston MON, OCT 15 Denver at San Diego
WED, SEP 5 Dallas at NY Giants SUN, SEP 9 Indianapolis at Chicago Philadelphia at Cleveland New England at Tennessee Atlanta at Kansas City Jacksonville at Minnesota Washington at New Orleans Buffalo at NY Jets St. Louis at Detroit Miami at Houston San Francisco at Green Bay Seattle at Arizona Carolina at Tampa Bay Pittsburgh at Denver MON, SEP 10 Cincinnati at Baltimore San Diego at Oakland
THU, OCT 25 Tampa Bay at Minnesota SUN, OCT 28 Carolina at Chicago San Diego at Cleveland Seattle at Detroit Jacksonville at Green Bay Indianapolis at Tennessee New England at St. Louis Miami at NY Jets Atlanta at Philadelphia Washington at Pittsburgh Oakland at Kansas City NY Giants at Dallas New Orleans at Denver MON, OCT 29 San Francisco at Arizona
THU, NOV 22 Houston at Detroit Washington at Dallas New England at NY Jets SUN, NOV 25 Minnesota at Chicago Oakland at Cincinnati Pittsburgh at Cleveland Buffalo at Indianapolis Denver at Kansas City Seattle at Miami Atlanta at Tampa Bay Tennessee at Jacksonville Baltimore at San Diego St. Louis at Arizona San Francisco at New Orleans Green Bay at NY Giants MON, NOV 26 Carolina at Philadelphia
THU, NOV 29 New Orleans at Atlanta SUN, DEC 2 Jacksonville at Buffalo Seattle at Chicago Indianapolis at Detroit Minnesota at Green Bay Houston at Tennessee Carolina at Kansas City San Francisco at St. Louis New England at Miami Arizona at NY Jets Tampa Bay at Denver Cincinnati at San Diego Cleveland at Oakland Pittsburgh at Baltimore Philadelphia at Dallas MON, DEC 3 NY Giants at Washington
Week 11 THU, NOV 15 Miami at Buffalo SUN, NOV 18 Arizona at Atlanta Cleveland at Dallas Green Bay at Detroit Cincinnati at Kansas City NY Jets at St. Louis Indianapolis at New England Philadelphia at Washington Tampa Bay at Carolina Jacksonville at Houston New Orleans at Oakland San Diego at Denver Baltimore at Pittsburgh MON, NOV 19 Chicago at San Francisco
Week 16 SAT, DEC 22 Atlanta at Detroit SUN, DEC 23 New Orleans at Dallas Tennessee at Green Bay Indianapolis at Kansas City Buffalo at Miami Washington at Philadelphia Cincinnati at Pittsburgh St. Louis at Tampa Bay Oakland at Carolina New England at Jacksonville NY Giants at Baltimore Minnesota at Houston Cleveland at Denver San Francisco at Seattle Chicago at Arizona San Diego at NY Jets
The Game Plan
Week 12
Week 8
Week 13
Week 9 THU, NOV 1 Kansas City at San Diego SUN, NOV 4 Denver at Cincinnati Baltimore at Cleveland Arizona at Green Bay Chicago at Tennessee Miami at Indianapolis Carolina at Washington Detroit at Jacksonville Buffalo at Houston Tampa Bay at Oakland Minnesota at Seattle Pittsburgh at NY Giants Dallas at Atlanta MON, NOV 5 Philadelphia at New Orleans
Week 5 THU, OCT 4 Arizona at St. Louis SUN, OCT 7 Miami at Cincinnati Green Bay at Indianapolis Baltimore at Kansas City Tennessee at Minnesota Atlanta at Washington Cleveland at NY Giants Philadelphia at Pittsburgh Seattle at Carolina Chicago at Jacksonville Denver at New England Buffalo at San Francisco San Diego at New Orleans MON, OCT 8 Houston at NY Jets
Week 10 THU, NOV 8 Indianapolis at Jacksonville SUN, NOV 11 NY Giants at Cincinnati Tennessee at Miami Detroit at Minnesota Buffalo at New England Atlanta at New Orleans San Diego at Tampa Bay Denver at Carolina Oakland at Baltimore NY Jets at Seattle Dallas at Philadelphia St. Louis at San Francisco Houston at Chicago MON, NOV 12 Kansas City at Pittsburgh
Week 14
Week 15
THU, DEC 6 Denver at Oakland SUN, DEC 9 St. Louis at Buffalo Dallas at Cincinnati Kansas City at Cleveland Philadelphia at Tampa Bay Baltimore at Washington Atlanta at Carolina NY Jets at Jacksonville Tennessee at Indianapolis Chicago at Minnesota San Diego at Pittsburgh Miami at San Francisco Arizona at Seattle New Orleans at NY Giants Detroit at Green Bay MON, DEC 10 Houston at New England
THU, DEC 13 Cincinnati at Philadelphia SUN, DEC 16 NY Giants at Atlanta Green Bay at Chicago Washington at Cleveland Minnesota at St. Louis Jacksonville at Miami Tampa Bay at New Orleans Denver at Baltimore Indianapolis at Houston Detroit at Arizona Carolina at San Diego Seattle at Buffalo Pittsburgh at Dallas Kansas City at Oakland San Francisco at New England MON, DEC 17 NY Jets at Tennessee
Week 17
SUN, DEC 30 Tampa Bay at Atlanta NY Jets at Buffalo Baltimore at Cincinnati Chicago at Detroit Jacksonville at Tennessee Houston at Indianapolis Green Bay at Minnesota Miami at New England Carolina at New Orleans Philadelphia at NY Giants Cleveland at Pittsburgh Dallas at Washington Oakland at San Diego Arizona at San Francisco St. Louis at Seattle Kansas City at Denver
NFL Football Postseason Playoff Schedule 2012-2013 Wild-Card Round- January 5th and 6th, 2013 Divisional Round-January 12th and 13th, 2013 Championship GameJanuary 20th, 2013 Super Bowl XLVII February 3rd, 2013 Mercedez-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Lousiana
42
The Game Plan
43
The Game Plan
44