2017 Football Preview

O L O H S C

L L A B T O O F

F F O K C I K H G I H

N O S A E

S 7 1 0 2

Will Warren

Von Williams

PAIR

OF ACES

Quarterback Will Warren and running back Von Williams are expected to ignite Owensboro Catholic’s offense

See story, Page 2

2 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Warren, Williams will drive Owensboro Catholic

Juniors gained valuable experience as sophomores

BY MARK MATHIS

W

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ill Warren and Von Williams are two of the most high-profile high school football players in this area. They’re getting ready to embark on junior seasons full of expectation after each put up huge numbers as sophomores for Owensboro Catholic High School.

Warren (6-foot-2, 210 pounds) got rolling in the last five games of the 2016 season. He completed 160-of-252 attempts for 2,152 passing yards and 33 touchdowns with 12 interceptions.

Williams’ (6-1, 185) 2016 campaign ignited in Week 2, when he rushed for 286 yards and three touchdowns on 35 carries in the Aces’ win over Daviess County. On the season, he rushed for 1,808 yards and 19 touchdowns on 244 carries. “He already had the confidence,� said Catholic coach John Edge of Williams’ outlook entering the season. “The biggest thing was after the Daviess County game. That helped him out a whole lot, he did some good things after that.�

Catholic leaned on Williams a lot in the first half of its 11-2 campaign, which provided Warren with time to figure out the intricacies of the Aces’ passing game. “As a sophomore, you try to find yourself, especially as a starting quarterback, and as the season went along, he knew who he was and was real comfortable with a lot of throws,� said Edge of Warren’s development. “It does take a while. You’ve got to game plan for as good as he can play. If he’s young, inexperienced, you’ve got to do some things to help. I think Von helped a whole lot. We ran him a lot, and that helped a lot.�

While Williams kept things going early, Warren began to find a comfort zone surveying the field and learning how to spot open receivers. “Early on his confidence level wasn’t as high,� said Williams of Warren. “Once he got his rhythm going, he found open receivers a lot better, was more accurate.�

Warren and Williams both benefitted from having gained familiarity with each other’s strengths and weaknesses by having played together on the jayvee team as freshmen, and they developed a good working rapport. “We had a whole jayvee season before last year, so we were excited to get out there on Friday nights and have fun,� Warren said. “We became pretty good friends.�

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer/awarren@messenger-inquirer.com

Owensboro Catholic’s Von Williams looks for running room against Daviess County’s Will Nalley and Drew Cockerell during a game last season at Reid Stadium.

Warren also benefitted from having a good group of seniors to work with, both along the offensive line and in the receiving corps, which helped him develop the skills required to helm Catholic’s wide open offensive attack. “A lot of seniors stepped up at the beginning of the year and said, ‘We know you’re going to make mistakes. Nobody is going to put it on you. We’re going to have your back. No big deal,’ “ Warren said. “You can’t worry about it. “The last five weeks of the season we were in full swing, so it wasn’t as bad. I was getting to open receivers and finding more grass. In the beginning of the year, you’re just keying on a guy you’re worried about, then later, you get to go through all your reads and find the right guy.�

Williams caught seven passes last season. Catholic will look to increase Williams’ involvement in the passing game to build on their extensive individual skills. “Me and him have a connection; we know what the other one is thinking,� Williams said. “He understands me, pretty much knows what’s going on with me. And it helps with what is going on on the field.�

Ask Warren what he thinks is Williams’ best attribute, and the quarterback will say the running back’s determination carrying the football. “He never stopped running, those feet never stopped,� Warren said. “I never had to worry one play.�

They also try to help each other overcome mistakes. “I’ll get into him if something bad happens,� Warren said. “He’ll get into me if something bad

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer/awarren@messenger-inquirer.com

Owensboro Catholic’s Will Warren throws under pressure from Daviess County’s Trevor Young during a game last season at Reid Stadium. happens,� Warren said.

Both players worked hard during the offseason to improve their strength and stamina, the results of which they anticipate showing up in not only their stat line, but other areas. “My individual goals are definitely to have more yards than what I did last year,�

Williams said. “More receiving and rushing yards are always a plus. But also be better blocking.

At first it was a totally new thing for me. I’d never had to do that before. Now I’m more comfortable.â€?Â

Warren said dropping a few pounds has helped him feel more athletic. “(I have) more speed to get out of the pocket,� said Warren of meeting his top offseason objective. “(I have) more roll-out speed to find receivers late in the play.�

As always, Edge is looking for as much or more production from his top offensive performers while taking on more of a leadership role. “They’re going to have to,� said Edge of how much he needs them to be team leaders. “They’ve

got another year of experience.

They’ve got confidence. They’ve got to get this done. “The biggest thing is they’re going to have to be leaders of our team, that’s what we’re looking for from them. They have to be more vocal, keep setting examples of what to do on and off the field. “They work hard, they do a lot of the little things right, but they’re still learning, too. They haven’t even gone through their junior year. They haven’t fully reached their potential, which is good, it’s real good. I hope they continue to grow, and they have.�

City-County teams all have something to offer this season A bsent what projects to Williams are expected be a dominant team, to put up big numbers, this year’s battle for again, for the Aces and the city-county coach John Edge. high school football Still, there is championship a question how should be a good they’ll handle their one. junior seasons after Historically, it’s having enjoyed often a two-team significant success competition as sophomores. between Owensboro Sometimes a and Owensboro player will have a MARK Catholic high MATHIS rough junior year schools, with MESSENGER-INQUIRER after a breakout Daviess County and sophomore season, Apollo not having as the hunger may achieved the long-term decrease while the size of consistency of the two city the target on their back schools. increases.

While the county However, gazing into schools appear to be poised the crystal ball tells me that to take a step forward the junior jinx is unlikely this season, with Daviess for the Aces’ talented duo.

County the proverbial Defenses will gear up for darkhorse to shake up the them, no question, but all norm, it still appears the indications are that they Aces and Red Devils have each worked to get the upper hand in the battle considerably better during for county bragging rights the offseason. That’s what in 2017.

Edge is banking on.

Catholic has the best Owensboro usually has tandem in the city-county, a star or two (or three or and likely the area. four) on its roster, which Quarterback Will Warren has helped the Red Devils and running back Von go on a considerable roll

over the last five years. This season, though, there doesn’t seem to be as many marquee skill performers. But the Red Devils are young, so maybe it’s just a matter of their players needing an opportunity to show breakout potential, and they’re going to get that chance.

One thing the Red Devils do have is valuable experience on both the offensive and defensive lines. Tough veterans up front can help a team get past a lot of obstacles.

The big guys on both sides of the ball can have a tremendous influence

for a team waiting for skill players to find their way.

OHS coach Jay Fallin knows this is the most inexperienced team the program has had in a while. However, he’s confident there are potential standouts on his roster. Consider I’monte Owsley. The sophomore made a splash last season with his play in the Red Devils’ secondary, including notching four interceptions, with one returned for a touchdown. Meanwhile, his teammate, Aireon Phillips, collected six interceptions.

I wonder what they’ll be

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thinking when they meet Catholic’s Warren and Williams on Sept. 1.

Daviess County, with standout Marquel Tinsley catching the football, has enough potential to make coach Matt Brannon think the young Panthers can be very good. New quarterback Joseph Cambron can deliver the ball to Tinsley and Shae Carwile.

Apollo may be the most experienced team, in addition to having good depth, that coach Dan Crume has had as he wraps up his time on the Eagles’ sideline. Crume took over as athletic

director, but was asked to coach one more season to help with a smooth transition for whoever the coach is in 2018.

Certainly, Crume would be delighted if Apollo had its best team under his coaching tenure.

But until the ball is in the air, it’s all speculation.

Thankfully, the speculating is about over. The 2017 high school football season kicks off tonight, and, as always, it’s time to begin finding out which teams and players are going to make it a campaign to remember.

Once again, it should be a fun ride.

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3 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Owensboro Catholic

Aces to face challenging early schedule Catholic needs more depth on offensive line

O

BY MARK MATHIS MESSENGER-INQUIRER

wensboro Catholic won 11 games last season, and depending on how the Aces start against a tough early schedule, reaching that win total will be among the program’s goals for 2017.

“We’ll just worry about one game at a time, but we can go far,” Catholic coach John Edge said. “I feel confident, but we’ve got three very good teams that we play early in the year. We can be 3-0, and we can be 0-3. We have a good schedule.”

The Aces open with Daviess County at Steele Stadium. They also host powerful Evansville Reitz in the revived Border Bowl.

The third week of the season, Catholic takes on city rival Owensboro at Rash Stadium.

Catholic won’t have to worry about offensive production. Quarterback Will Warren (6-foot-2, 210 pounds) and running back Von Williams (6-1, 185) return for their junior seasons. To say each of them had breakout sophomore years would be a vast understatement.

Warren got rolling in the final games last year. On the season, he completed 160-of-252 passes for 2,152 yards and 33 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Williams was equally proficient. He rushed for 1,808 yards on 244 carries and scored 19 touchdowns.

KOBE HAMILTON

NICK MILLS

OFFENSE

One of the biggest concerns for the Aces is depth on the offensive line.

“Right now, we’re still figuring out some offensive line scenarios in case people go down,” Edge said during preseason practice. “We lost a lot of good offensive linemen that we’ve got to replace. We’re trying to put the finishing touches on those things.

Depth, that’s what we’re working on.”

Getting the early starting looks will be senior Will Stone (6-2, 245) at left tackle and junior Jordan Puckett (6-2, 270) at left guard. Junior Sam Wilson (5-10, 245) will anchor the line at center.

Sophomore Noah Edelen (6-1, 230) is at right guard.

Sophomore Rudy Clouse (5-11, 225) will start at right tackle, but junior Jayden Hall (6-5, 265) will also return on the line after fully recovering from a knee injury.

Two areas where there are plenty of bodies are

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com/geans@messenger-inquirer.com

NOAH TODD

receivers and running backs.

“There’s one thing we have an abundance of, and it’s running backs,” Edge said. “We’ve created some depth there, which is good.”

Williams, of course, leads the backfield. He’ll be joined by senior Nick Blair (6-2, 205), one of the fastest players on the team, and sophomore Hagan Edge (5-9, 155) could also be in the running back mix, as well as at receiver along with junior Quanya Gray (5-9, 155). Freshmen Aaron Buckman (5-10, 180) and Harold Hogg (5-10, 170) could also gain varsity experience this season.

An abundance of receivers are also available.

The options include juniors Nick Mills (6-0, 190), Noah Todd (6-3, 230), at tight end, Sam Harrington (6-2, 175), and Kobe Hamilton (6-0, 160) and seniors George Kurtz (6-1, 180)

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Owensboro Catholic’s Von Williams runs through a receiving drill on Aug. 2 during a team practice at Steele Stadium.

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 Daviess County 7 p.m.

Aug. 25 Evansville Reitz 8 p.m.

Sept. 1 at Owensboro 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 at South Spencer 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 Apollo 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 Butler County 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 at Mclean County 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 Hancock County 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 at Todd County Central 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 South Warren 7 p.m.

and Jonah McCormmack (5-11, 190).

Mills is the leading returning receiver for the Aces. He had 37 catches for 566 yards and seven touchdowns last season.

Catholic may utilize running backs more in the passing game if the defense looks to take away the outside passing game.

“If they don’t cover our backs, then yeah, we will throw to them,” Edge said. “If they do, we’ll have

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one-on-one with Kobe Hamilton and Nick Mills.”

DEFENSE

The Aces think they’re in good shape on the defensive line and at linebacker. Some players in the defensive backfield don’t have a lot of experience, but Edge is confident they can do the job.

Todd is back at left defensive end after totaling 62 tackles last season.

Senior Spencer Millay

SPECIAL TEAMS

Puckett will be the punter, and freshman Michael Sullivan (5-9, 155) will handle kickoffs and extra points.

Mills, Gray and Hamilton will rotate in the return game.

OUTLOOK

There are depth issues at some positions — notably the offensive line — but Edge and the staff tried to develop more overall depth by instituting a Green team and a White team in practice.

“You get moved up, moved back, turned around, it creates competition,” said Edge of the practice strategy.

“The team is split. What offensive lineman is going to show up this week?

What quarterback is going to show up this week? We used (backup quarterback) Drew Hartz a whole lot in the 7-on-7 at UK. Will (Warren) was in the tournament at KWC. “It depends on who’s hot and who’s not. Our competition has really peaked.”

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(5-11, 205) returns at right defensive end. Puckett anchors the group at nose guard.

“We feel good about our D line,” Edge said.

Senior Josh Sloan (5-10, 180) is the leading returning tackler with 107 stops last season. He’s joined at linebacker by Harrington, Blair and senior Sterling Hardesty (5-11, 180).

In the secondary, the corners will be Hamilton and seniors John Henry Booth (6-0, 170) and Nolan Lowe (5-9, 165). The nickel back will be Edge, who could also play free safety or outside linebacker, and senior Tanner Cecil (5-11, 190).

Free safety will be manned by Gray.

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4 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Daviess County

Panthers will be relying on younger talent Coach believes squad can be among school’s best

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL MESSENGER-INQUIRER

The Daviess County High School football team will have plenty of talent on the field in 2017, but with that talent also comes a lot of inexperience.

The Panthers went 6-5 last season, including a loss to Male in the Class 6-A state playoffs, but third-year coach Matt Brannon believes his squad can have an even better 2017 — if they can learn on the fly.

“We’ve got some gaps to fill,” Brannon said, “but we’ve got some really talented young kids that we’re hoping will step up.

“They make young mistakes, like not getting lined up correctly, just things that come with playing time and experience and preparation. In terms of talent and ability, we’ve got some players.”

The key, Brannon added, will be what happens when his team faces adversity early in the season.

“That’s one area we’ve really been preaching and trying to push on the practice field,” he said.

“Are they going to pick each other up or start pointing fingers? Football is a game of ups and downs. Good teams react to those (situations) in a positive way.”

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com/geans@messenger-inquirer.com

Daviess County wide reciever Marquel Tinsley runs the ball downfield during a practice on Aug. 8 at the high school.

2017 SCHEDULE

OFFENSE

Last season saw the emergence of Marquel Tinsley, a 6-foot-4, 200-pound wide receiver who led the state — regardless of class alignment — with 124 receiving yards per game. For the year, he hauled in 1,368 yards and a Kentucky-best 21 touchdowns.

Tinsley will lead a talented group of receivers that also features tight end Shae Carwile (6-2, 205), who had 172 receiving yards and three scores in 2016. Other wideouts will include junior Blake Baker (5-7, 165), senior Brady Oost (5-10, 165) and junior Alex Nalley (5-8, 160), among others.

“To have players like Marquel Tinsley and Shae Carwile, we’re going to lean on those guys,” Brannon said. “I’ve talked to them personally how above all, they’re the ones to pull the team together.”

Junior Joseph Cambron (6-0, 170) will step into the starting quarterback role for the first time, providing the Panthers with a pocket passer who can get the ball to their playmakers.

“Although he’s athletic, he wants to sit back in the pocket and deliver the football,” Brannon said.

“He’s got long arms, big hands, and he looks like a quarterback. He’s got a great arm, he’s accurate, and he can throw all three balls — short, intermediate and deep. I’m excited about him.”

Cambron saw limited time as a sophomore, completing 7-of-13 passing attempts for 81 yards with two touchdowns and an interception.

Junior Landon Newman (6-1, 185) is a running back expected to be the Panthers’ ”premiere runner,” according

DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 at Owensboro Catholic 7 p.m.

Aug. 26 Evansville Memorial (at Rash Stadium) 4 p.m.

Sept. 1 at John Hardin 8 p.m.

Sept. 8 Hancock County 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 Owensboro 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 at McCracken County 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 Muhlenberg County 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 Henderson County 7 p.m.

Oct. 20 at Ohio County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 at Apollo 7 p.m.

NOLAN CRISP

to Brannon. Newman fractured his collarbone during 7-on-7 competition, but he’s expected to be back a week or two after the season begins.

Baker will move into the backfield for the first couple of weeks to lead the way, Brannon said, while a trio of sophomores — Shane Riley (5-10, 180), Weston Lane (5-10, 170) and Tyler Garner (5-9, 190) — will fill in where needed.

Senior Evan Barr (6-2, 270), junior Cameron Duvall (5-9, 190), sophomore Joe Benallo (5-10, 240) and junior Noah Gatton (5-5, 200) bring some experience to the offensive line, but Brannon is also expecting a pair of freshmen in Jon Nalley (6-5, 255) and Blake Henry (6-2, 230) to make an impact.

While DC has sported a balanced offensive attack in recent years — which yielded 30 points per game last season — early indications are that the Panthers will be more pass-heavy this season.

“I feel like we’ll put the ball a little bit more in the air this year, with Joey and Marquel and the receiving group that we have,” Brannon said. “Even our running backs are all good receivers, so we’ll look to maybe go a little more up-tempo to keep defenses off balance.”

LANDON NEWMAN

MARQUEL TINSLEY

DEFENSE

time on the defensive line. Carwile recorded 47 tackles last year, while Cockrell had 20 stops and a fumble recovery.

The Panthers will feature all new faces at the linebacker spots, with Walker Davis the lone senior. Garner, Riley and Lane will also see time as linebackers, but Brannon expects big things from Duvall in that position.

Senior Blake Rumage (5-9, 160) returns to the secondary after tallying 34 tackles last year. Seniors Nolan Crisp (5-9, 145) and Drake Glenn (5-8, 155) are competing for time at safety. DC’s defensive

After giving up more than 28 points per game last season, Brannon wants improvement from his defense.

“Defensively, I think our strongest point will be up front,” he said. “We’ve got a core of defensive linemen that we can rotate four or five kids there.

As of now, we’ve got two platoons up front, which is huge for us.”

Sophomore Jonathan Stefanopoulos (6-2, 334) will man the defensive tackle spot, with speedy senior Drew Cockrell (5-8, 180) on the outside.

Carwile will also spend

backs will also include Tinsley (four interceptions last year), Baker (44 tackles) and junior JQ Fletcher (5-7, 150).

expectations are high for the Panthers.

“I think we could be as good as we want to be,” he said. “If we can have some success early, we could be one of the best SPECIAL TEAMS DC boys’ soccer player teams that’s ever played here.

Brian Winkler (5-9, 165) “We’ve got kids that will handle place-kicker can make plays. We’ve got duties. playmakers that can take Winkler and Cambron it the distance any time will split handling punts, depending on the situation. they touch the ball, and that’s a nice thing to have.

I feel good about what we OUTLOOK can do this year.”

Brannon said

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5 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Owensboro

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer/awarren@messenger-inquirer.com

Owensboro’s Austin Gough, left, tackles Trace Grenier, right, during a tackling drill at practice on Monday at Rash Stadium.

Red Devils inexperienced, but boast potential

Running game expected to be a strength

T

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 at Madisonville-North Hopkins 7 p.m.

Aug. 26 Evansville Mater Dei 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 1 Owensboro Catholic 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 at Bowling Green 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 at Daviess County 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 Christian County 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 Marshall County 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 at Apollo 7 p.m.

Oct. 20 at Graves County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 Henderson County 7 p.m.

BY MARK MATHIS MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he Owensboro High School football program has a lot of positions to fill after losing several players to graduation. The Red Devils, however, feel like they have many young, hungry players who’ve been waiting for a chance to contribute.

That’s what coach Jay Fallin is banking on this season after the Devils have gone 21-5 during his two-season tenure, with four of those losses coming to Class 5-A juggernaut Bowling Green. OHS finished 10-3 last year, having also lost to Owensboro Catholic.

“When you’re a young team that’s sophomore heavy, you’ve got a bunch of guys who are eager to prove themselves,” Fallin said. “That made preseason camp a ton of fun.”

What could make this season fun for the Red Devils from start to finish is the veteran players in the trenches.

“Both lines are very solid — we should be good on both the offensive and defensive lines,” Fallin said. “We’ve got juniors and seniors anchoring both lines who are not only athletic and big, but they work hard and want to be leaders.”

Overall, however, experience is lacking, with four starters returning on offense and five starters back on defense.

OFFENSE

The Red Devils were unsettled at quarterback for some time during preseason camp before junior Zeke Brown (5-foot-11, 205 pounds) claimed the starting nod.

He’ll be working with what Fallin calls a “great core” of running backs.

Sophomore I’monte Owsley (5-7, 170) is

ZEKE BROWN

NATE HUMPHREY

I’MONTE OWSLEY

expected to take over the feature back role from the graduated Landon Board.

Also in the backfield mix will be senior fullbacks Josh Cowherd (5-10, 240) — who scored four touchdowns last season — and Jakaray Weaver (5-11, 250).

“They’re both a load, they run hard, they’re big, strong, and they can cause defenses a problem,” said Fallin, who also called junior Tre’von Green (5-8, 160) a dynamic halfback.

When the Red Devils look to open up the offense, sophomore receivers Tyren Hayden (6-2, 175) and Julius Eberhart (6-1, 170) will be likely targets.

Sophomores Jordan Sorrells (6-2, 185) and Kamren Watkins (5-11, 155) will also see time at receiver, while Trace Grenier (5-11, 225) will see significant action at tight end.

“We run the ball to set pass up, and we’ve got couple of receivers we’re excited about,” Fallin said.

“We feel we have athletes all over the field.”

To get the most out of Red Devils’ skill players, Fallin is counting on the offensive line to open big running lanes and provide solid pass protection.

Senior center Nate Humphrey (6-0, 300) leads the unit, having started 26 games. Senior guard Austin Coomes (5-9, 255) and junior guard Carson Brooks (6-1, 250), each having started 13 games, also provide experience, and senior Jackson Burke (6-7, 300) is already being courted by collegiate recruiters, having gotten an offer from Tennessee Tech.

Juniors Logan Webb (5-11, 220) and Qualon

Tinsley (6-2, 255) are also expected to play a big role on the offensive line.

on the outside.

Sophomore Cameron Thompson (5-9, 150) will be at strong safety, and sophomore Tyren Hayden (6-2, 175) will provide safety depth.

DEFENSE

On the defensive line, Weaver, who made 33 tackles last season, and junior Diamond Glover (5-10, 265) return as starters, with Tinsley also expected to contribute along with senior transfer Dymond Harris (5-10, 205).

The Red Devils will need immediate leadership up front to help offset the expected growing pains of the linebacking corps.

“We graduated all of our linebackers with the exception of Jalen Goodwin,” Fallin said.

Goodwin, a 5-foot-9, 160-pound senior, and Grenier will work at middle linebacker. Sorrells and junior Hunter Morris (5-11, 150) will be at outside linebacker. Freshman Austin Gough (6-0, 180) and sophomore Scott Cox (5-7, 170) will get strong looks at inside linebacker.

The Red Devils enjoyed a wealth of playmakers in the secondary last season, and Owsley returns to anchor the group at free safety, as he’s coming off an outstanding 2016 campaign in which he made 29 tackles, forced one fumble, had one fumble recovery and collected four interceptions, which, collectively, he returned for 68 yards and one touchdown.

The Red Devils also expect to continue their ballhawking ways at cornerback, with junior Aireon Phillips (5-5, 150) coming off a six-interception campaign and senior Terrion Hall (5-8,150) back after tallying 11 tackles and one interception last season. Junior Jon Brown (5-8, 150) will also see time

SPECIAL TEAMS

OHS took a sharp hit late when senior kicker Nick Brake was diagnosed with a torn quadriceps last weekend. Brake was going to be place kicking for the Red Devils, was considered a valuable point-producer, and his kickoffs often resulted in touchbacks, which helped OHS’s defense.

“It’s a huge loss to our team,” Fallin said.

The OHS coaching staff was working on finding a replacement for Brake early

The Red Devils have been one of the most consistent programs in 5-A (and previously 4-A) over the last few seasons. The problem is they’ve been going against Bowling Green on the other side of Region 1 since moving to 5-A — a significant hurdle for any program. this week.

Owsley will handle punting duties.

Owsley, Hayden and Green are expected to contribute in the return game.

OUTLOOK

The Red Devils have been one of the most consistent programs in 5-A (and previously 4-A) over the last few seasons. The problem is they’ve been going against Bowling Green on the other side of Region 1 since moving to 5-A — a significant hurdle for any program.

The Red Devils are young, but the team feels confident and competitive.

It will definitely get the chance to prove itself against District 1 favorite Christian County, which is the preseason No. 2 in 5-A behind Bowling Green, which has won five of the last six state championships.

But Fallin is counting on the Red Devils’ own tradition of excellence to pay dividends.

“This program has had a long line of success,” Fallin said, “and everybody wants to be a part of that lineage.”

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6 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Apollo

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer/awarren@messenger-inquirer.com

Apollo’s Nic Brooks runs during practice on Aug. 7 at Apollo High School.

Eagles focused on turning around recent woes

Coach expects depth, experience to translate into wins

BY MARK MATHIS MESSENGER-INQUIRER

A

pollo High School is working to get away from the two-win seasons that have framed its football program in recent years.

The Eagles posted a 2-9 record for five straight seasons before 2015, when they went 3-8. They fell back to 2-8 last year.

Apollo’s attempt to rebound will come in Dan Crume’s last season as head coach. He took over the athletic director’s post and had resigned as football coach, but he returned for another season with the Eagles to allow for a more extensive coaching search in 2018.

Crume’s farewell campaign has the potential to be his best with the Eagles, who not only have a good group of starters, but also boast depth for perhaps the first time during his tenure.

“One of things we’ve got is a really good core group of players who have either started or have played a lot over the last two or three seasons,” Crume said. “This is one of the bigger senior classes I’ve had here. We have some good, quality depth, and we’re trying to develop that.

“They’re battled tested and eager to prove what we have and what we can do here.”

OFFENSE

The returning standout on the offensive side is senior wide receiver

year. Junior guard Chris Schwartz (6-0, 225) and junior tackle Talon Safreed (6-3, 175) will also be key contributors, with junior Quentin Miller (6-0, 230), a starter last year who can play multiple positions, and junior Chase Englehardt (5-11, 330) providing depth.

DEFENSE

COLBY CLARK

SAM PARM

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 Muhlenberg County 7 p.m.

Aug. 25 Evansville Central (at Steele Stadium) 5:30 p.m.

Sept. 1 at McLean County 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 Butler County 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 at Owensboro Catholic 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 Graves County 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Christian County 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 Owensboro 7 p.m.

Oct. 20 at Marshall County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 Daviess County 7 p.m.

Peyton Peters (6-foot-2, 175 pounds). He had 69 receptions for 1,022 yards and nine touchdowns last season.

“He has the attributes (you want in a receiver),” Crume said. “He’s a good route runner. He’s good in open space. He catches the ball well. As a senior we’re looking for him to step up and be a leader. He has a great work ethic, and we want him to become more vocal and rally guys.”

Other wide receivers expected to contribute are senior Hunter Byrne (6-2, 170) and junior Gage Hayden (5-10, 155). Senior Gatlin Humphrey (6-2, 237) returns at tight end.

For the Eagles to capitalize on their wealth of receiving options, Crume knows his squad will need sound play at quarterback.

That responsibility will fall on junior Colby Clark (5-10, 170), who Crume said had a good summer of preparation.

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“The big thing with Peters’ success is the other 10 guys (on offense),” Crume said. “He does a lot of things very well, but what success he has will be contingent on what the other 10 players are doing.

“Colby has to be able to improve, and we had some good work sessions. We tried to throw at least once a week. We’ve also got to be

The Eagles are counting on experience paying big dividends with two three-year starters, Humphrey and senior PEYTON PETERS Presley Peters (6-1, 160) anchoring the linebacker able to run the football.” unit, with Peters also The backfield lacks capable of stepping out to much experience, with senior Nic Brooks (6-0, 175), cornerback.

Humphrey is the leading junior Sam Parm (6-1, 190) returning tackler, having and Mariano McKenzie (5-8, made 76 a year ago, while 164) expected to get the Peters totaled 50 tackles. bulk of the carries.

The Eagles also boast “Nic played some depth at linebacker, with running back for us last Parm, Byrne, Brooks, year, and Parm played junior Daelin Kennedy (6-1, some last year,” Crume said. “We’ll rotate them, and 185), senior Dylan Turner they’ll contribute significant (5-8,173) and junior Nathan Roberts (6-1, 150), who can amounts. Mariano McKenzie has come on well also help at safety, expected to see significant action. for us. We think he can be Up front for the Eagles impactful.” will be defensive linemen The running backs’ Miller, senior Jace learning curve should be Sutherland (6-0, 325) and eased by a talented and senior Kaleb Wilson (5-10, experienced offensive line.

Senior guard Jared Gibbs 226). Miller totaled 38 tackles last season.

(5-11, 260), who will be a The Eagles’ secondary third-year starter, anchors will be led by cornerbacks the unit. Junior tackle D.C. Boone (6-1, 320) and junior Peyton Peters, who had three interceptions last center Kaileb Fulkerson season, with two returned (5-10, 195) started last

for touchdowns, and hybrid Presley Peters, who also totaled three interceptions last year.

Hayden and seniors Khalif Carbon (5-10, 163) and Alex Ronning (5-11, 165) will also be looked to for contributions.

Sophomore Daylin Crabtree (6-2, 160) will see time at safety.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Junior Wes Knott (6-2,165) will be Apollo’s punter and kicker for the third straight year.

Peyton Peters, Brooks, Parm and McKenzie will handle returns.

OUTLOOK

Clark’s ability to be a field general and the running backs reaching their potential will be the keys to the Eagles’ offensive attack.

On the defensive side, Apollo wants to capitalize on experience and depth, Crume said.

“Our big goal is to go out and compete every rep, every play,” Crume said.

“We’ve got good, quality starters and something we haven’t had before, which is good quality depth.

Our mentality has to be to compete every rep, every play — push each other.

“If can get them to buy into that, we can have a very successful season.”

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7 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Hancock County

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer/awarren@messenger-inquirer.com

Hancock County’s assistant coach Jeff Kessans works with members of the punt team during practice on Aug. 4 at the high school in Hawesville.

Hornets hoping to continue improvement

Wing-T scrapped for a more quarterback-option approach

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL MESSENGER-INQUIRER

T

he Hancock County High School football program is intent on getting back on the right track.

After a dismal 2015 campaign in which the Hornets went 1-9, they made strides last year in going 3-8 with a Class 2-A state playoff appearance.

Now, coach Bobby Eubanks just wants his players to keep moving in that direction.

“We’re just looking to improve,” he said. “We’ve progressively won more games, and we don’t want this year to be any different. We’re working to get better every day, and we’re trying to get things back the way we want them to be.”

OFFENSE

Hancock County averaged a little more than 18 points per game last season — and Eubanks thinks the Hornets can do better in 2017.

The Hornets will move away from the Wing-T formation they used last season in favor of a more quarterback-option approach.

Spencer Harpenau, a 6-foot, 165-pound junior, and Jacob White, a 6-foot, 145-pound senior, are locked in a battle to see who the team’s starting signal-caller will be. More than anything from that spot, Eubanks said, is he wants a team leader.

“Those guys are pushing themselves and each other every day,” he said. “We just want them to do the best they can with our offense, and we’ll go with whoever can run things the way we want them to.”

Tanner Singleton, a 5-9, 160-pound senior, is the team’s leading returner in the backfield. He ran for 472 yards on 75 carries with four touchdowns last season. Senior Gage Gray (6-0, 205 pounds) returns after rushing for 188 yards and one TD last year, and senior Nole Alstad (6-1, 160) will also serve as a primary runner within the offense.

Experience will be key within that group.

“They’ve been playing the game for a long time,”

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 Grayson County 7 p.m.

Aug. 25 at Webster County 7 p.m.

Sept. 1 at Ohio County 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 at Daviess County 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 Todd County Central 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 at Butler County 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Owensboro Catholic 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 at Frederick Douglas 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 20 McLean County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 Breckinridge County 7 p.m.

Eubanks said. “They’re hard-nosed, and they understand that it’s not just about running the ball, but also blocking and doing what it takes to get us better.”

Seniors Parker Layne (5-10, 160) and Tristin Cartwright (5-6, 120) will suit up at wide receiver, with junior AJ Newton (5-8, 150) and freshman Darian Clay also providing offensive contributions.

“The main thing (from our skills positions), and we’ve put a major emphasis on it this year, is our blocking,” Eubanks said. “Our wings blocking for each other, and our receivers blocking downfield. Then once the opportunity to throw the ball is there, we’ve got to take advantage.”

Junior Warren Garrison (6-foot, 220), senior Austin Fuqua (6-foot, 280), sophomore Jesse Gray (5-9, 240), junior Devin Taylor (6-1, 195) and senior Cameron White (6-foot, 245) will start on the offensive line, with junior Huntyr Caldwell (5-4, 230) providing depth as a versatile substitute.

“From those guys, we’re looking for a lot of leadership,” Eubanks said.

“We’re looking for them to set the pace.”

Newton added 20 tackles, and Starks recovered two fumbles.

“When you’ve got four linebackers, you’re giving up one of your defensive backs,” he said.

“So, we’re looking to set the edges on the outside and looking to flow inside to make tackles. Our defensive linemen are up front setting the wall and spilling everything to the outside where we can make some tackles.”

Singleton, Clay, Cartwright, Layne and Jacob White are all in the mix to see time in the secondary.

Singleton recorded 28 tackles and a team-high three interceptions last year to lead the experienced group.

“A lot of those guys are seniors,” Eubanks said.

“They understand how we’re playing, how we want to play. They’ve got to be the guys where nobody gets behind you.”

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Clay and Newton will handle return duties.

Singleton will serve as the team’s punter, and the Hornets are still figuring out their place-kicking situation.

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OUTLOOK

Eubanks is optimistic DEFENSE that his team can keep The Hornets gave up building on the last two 33 points per game last years. season, and Eubanks is “Our guys have set some looking to limit the run solid goals that they’re better in 2017 with a 4-4 looking to accomplish,” defensive scheme. he said. “We focus and Senior Cody Wedding talk about that every day.

(5-9, 190), junior Zach They’ve put in the work to Martin (5-10, 195), make sure some of those Cameron White and Fuqua things are going to happen.” will man the defensive And, he added, the line, while Alstad, Gray support from fans and and senior Tavarus coaches have been a big Starks (5-8, 210) will be boost as the Hornets move key contributors at the forward. linebacker spots. Newton “I’ve had really will also see time at the good support from my outside linebacker spot. administration on the Alstad is the team’s top things we’re doing and returning tackler after how we’re doing them,” he recording 59 stops last said. “They’ve been really season. He also recovered supportive. Now, we’re just two fumbles. Gray finished trying to get better each with 40 tackles last year, day.”

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8 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Muhlenberg County

Photo by Alan Warren, Messenger-Inquirer/awarren@messenger-inquirer.com

Muhlenberg County quarterback Joseph Grubbs gets off a pass under pressure during practice on Aug. 3 at the high school in Greenville.

Mustangs look to build on momentum Hosting playoff game among season goals

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL MESSENGER-INQUIRER

W

ith the momentum it’s built during Hays Browning’s first three years as head coach, the Muhlenberg County High School football team sees no reason to slow down now.

The Mustangs have significantly improved each of the last three seasons, finishing with a 7-4 record in 2016.

Muhlenberg County fell in the Class 6-A state playoffs to St. Xavier to end its season, but this time around the Mutangs’ goals are even loftier — with the hope of bringing the postseason to Greenville.

“We’re looking to improve the program every year,” Browning said. “If our seniors came in and didn’t have lofty goals, I’d be upset. They still want to host a playoff game in our stadium. In order to do that, we’ll have to win some district games.”

And, Browning added, he feels that his players’ work during the offseason has put them ahead of schedule heading into the 2017 season.

“We feel like we’re a little further along at this point than we were last year,” he said. “We’re confident in the plan

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 at Apollo 7 p.m.

Aug. 25 at Logan County 7 p.m.

Sept. 1 Hopkins County Central 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 at McLean County 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 Butler County 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 Henderson County 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Daviess County 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 at Ohio County 7 p.m.

Oct. 20 McCracken County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 Grayson County 7 p.m.

we have. The kids have been working hard, and it’s been one of the best offseasons since I’ve been here. We feel good about where we’re at.”

OFFENSE

Joseph Grubbs is a 6-foot-1, 205-pound junior stepping into the starting quarterback role for the Mustangs. He replaces graduated standout Hunter Combs, who was widely regarded as one of the best quarterbacks in the region. But Browning is confident Grubbs can get the job done.

“He can throw the football, he can make all the throws in our offense,” said Browning of Grubbs, who contributed at multiple positions last year. “He is a physical kid.

He’s more of a downhill runner, and we’ll use him some in the running game. He’s not like Hunter, who could break free for 80 yards, but he’s liable to break open a run for 20 or 30 yards. He’ll be able to keep the chains moving.”

Sophomore Bronzyn Healy (6-0, 195) takes over

as Muhlenberg County’s top rushing threat, after rushing 13 times for 138 yards and three scores as a freshman. He’ll also be the team’s back-up signal caller if needed.

Sophomore Cameron Fulkerson (5-10, 170) will also see time in the backfield.

“He’s strong, but he’s also got some speed,” Browning said of Healy.

“He’s a throwback-type of football player. He just enjoys being out there.”

Senior Karsen Steele (6-1, 160) and junior Cameron Everly (6-3, 170) will head up the Mustangs’ receiving group. Steele led Muhlenberg County with 392 receiving yards and five TDs in 2016.

Junior Douglas Everly (6-1, 220) will suit up as the Mustangs’ tight end, with the ability to both block and serve as a viable threat in the passing game. Sophomore Thomas Griffin’s (5-11, 200) speed and athleticism will add an extra dimension to the offense, with the ability to run or catch passes.

The offensive line is where Browning believes

JOSEPH GRUBBS

BRONZYN HEALY

KARSEN STEELE

his team’s offense will excel.

Senior Ryan Chaney (6-0, 205) has locked up the starting center position, while fellow seniors Camryn Shultz (6-0, 250) and Logan Conway (5-11, 295) man the guard positions. The offensive tackle spots will rotate, with junior Kaleb Cary (6-3, 250), sophomore Hunter Henson (6-4, 290) and seniors Drew Chaney (5-10, 180) and Braydon Hibbs (5-4, 180) all seeing time.

“This is going to be the biggest, most athletic and strongest group we’ve ever had here,” he said. “We can block, pull, get out on the perimeter — we’re putting a lot on them early to establish the running game. We’d like to be able to hand the ball off and see success early.”

The Mustangs will employ a 4-4 defensive lineup, with several players rotating in and out on the defensive line.

Douglas Everly, Ryan Chaney, Shultz, Conway, junior Hunter Walker (5-3, 230) and senior Cole Rhoades (5-7, 200) will be up front. Hibbs (team-high 66 tackles last year) and Drew Chaney (54 tackles) will play at the inside linebacker spots, with Camryn Everly (21 tackles) and Healy (52 tackles, one interception) manning the outside.

With a three-deep look, the Mustangs’ defensive backs will include Steele (two interceptions), sophomore Winky Drake (5-7, 150), junior Chris Chaney (5-9, 160), Caden Revelette (6-1, 155) and sophomore Caleb Vincent (5-9, 150).

Browning expects a fast, physical defense — but also a disciplined group — after surrenduring 33 points per game last year.

“If you line up right and do your job, then we’re going to have a good

defense,” he said. “We believe that in high school football, as long as you’re consistent, a lot of the time offenses will make mistakes themselves. We want to hopefully bend, not break. Keep everything in front of us and make offenses drive the whole field.”

DEFENSE

With seven returning starters on defense, Browning expects big things on that side of the ball.

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SPECIAL TEAMS

Drake will serve both as the team’s place-kicker and a kick returner, while Steele and Healy will also return kickoffs and punts.

Senior Thomas Dukes (5-8, 155) will be the punter, and Hibbs is the long snapper.

OUTLOOK

After building expectations over the last several seasons, the Mustangs anticipate even more success in 2017.

“We’ve got a group here that’s built the culture,” Browning said of his team’s seniors.

“They know what I expect, what our coaching staff expects, and they’ve held everybody accountable.”

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9 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

McLean County

Cougars looking to replace backfield weapons Offense could feature a more balanced attack

BY MARK MATHIS

T

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he McLean County High School football program will have to replace nearly an entire backfield that collected nearly 3,500 rushing yards last season.

“My assistant coaches have to remind me that I’m the ultimate pessimist,” McLean County coach Zach Wagner said. “We’ve had to replace the entire backfield, and we’ll have a different dynamic at quarterback.”

The Cougars will be trying to plug in experience from a team that went 7-4 in Class 2-A in 2016.

“The last two years, we’ve been able to go one platoon with these guys,” Wagner said. “We’re going with the same thing.”

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OFFENSE

AJ Cline, who gained some experience at quarterback last year, will be the starting field general.

“With AJ, we may be able to throw the ball a little bit,” Wagner said.

Cline’s most likely targets will be tight end Colton Johnson (6-foot-2, 240), wide receiver Logan Moore, a part-time starter last season, Dylan McMahon and Jaden Nelson.

The Cougars have predominantly relied on a ground attack the last few years, which figures to remain the focal point of the offense. Several players are vying for playing time at the wing back and fullback spots.

Noah Baldwin (5-8, 145 pounds), is pound for pound one of the strongest players on the team, having medaled in the state weightlifting competition, and projects to be a significant factor out of the backfield.

Wingback Tyler Beals provides experience, as he rushed for 451 yards on 56 carries last season, and sophomore Landon Capps gives the Cougars speed.

Sophomore Brayden Bishop provides depth as he returns from an injury that limited him last season.

“They all have some quickness,” Wagner said.

“We’ll probably nickel and dime people.”

The Cougars’ top options at fullback are expected to be Jacob Miller (5-10, 230) and Peyton Caraway (6-1, 180).

Both were injured early last season.

The Cougars boast experience on the offensive line, with senior right guard Logan Vaught, junior right tackle Dalton Eubanks and senior left tackle Mark Miller having played key roles in the rushing success last season. Also expected to be in the lineman rotation are guard Zareck Wedding and centers Trenton Render (320) and Carlos Zuniga (335).

“Conditioning up front has been the key, trying to

LOGAN VAUGHT

The Cougars have predominantly relied on a ground attack the last few years, which figures to remain the focal point of the offense. Several players are vying for playing time at the wing back and fullback spots.

Noah Baldwin (5-8, 145 pounds), is pound for pound one of the strongest players on the team, having medaled in the state weightlifting competition, and projects to be a significant factor out of the backfield. get them moving,” Wagner said. “With all the motion, these guys are running almost sideline to sideline.

We may not be as quick laterally, but for once we may be the same size as our opponent.”

DEFENSE

The Cougars will employ a four-man front, with juniors Nikolas Delacruz (6-0, 210) and Logan Case (5-10, 220) at tackle and senior Dakota Davis, a returning starter, and junior Jacob Miller at ends, where Wagner hopes they can exploit their height to disrupt opposing passing attacks.

“We’re pretty excited to see what those two can do inside,” said Wagner of his tackles.

Junior Noah Knight returns as a starting middle linebacker, with Baldwin also at inside linebacker.

Beals provides starting experience at outside

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com/geans@messenger-inquirer.com

McLean County’s Logan Moore catches a pass on Aug. 4 during a team practice at the high school in Calhoun. linebacker, with junior Josh Badertscher and sophomores Montgomery Wright and Tyler Free also battling for playing time.

Braden Bishop tops the depth chart at free safety, with Corby Moore potentially providing depth as he works his way back from an injury suffered last season. Capps will start at one cornerback slot, with Moore, McMahon and Nelson working the other side of the secondary.

SPECIAL TEAMS

The Cougars’ kicking game remains a work in progress.

Caraway has shown the potential to handle punting duties, although Beals may be used as a rugby-style punter.

Miller and Caraway are competing for kicking duties.

Capps and Beals will lead the Cougars’ return game.

Go Red Devils!

OUTLOOK

There were around 44 players on the roster during preseason camp, with Wagner saying the Cougars had to fill some holes.

“These guys are eager to show they can win some games,” Wagner said.

“Our schedule is a little tougher. We added Apollo, which is a 5-A school, and we added Trigg County.

The boys know they have their work cut out for them.”

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 at Ohio County 7 p.m.

Aug. 25 at Trigg County 8 p.m.

Sept. 1 Apollo 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 Muhlenberg County 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 at Logan County 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 Owensboro Catholic 7 p.m.

Oct. 6 at Todd County Central 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 Butler County 7 p.m.

Oct. 20 at Hancock County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 Webster County 7 p.m.

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10 Football MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Friday, August 18, 2017

Ohio County

Eagles embracing new culture, expectations Ganaway takes over as head coach

BY JOSEPH RUSSELL MESSENGER-INQUIRER

W

hen DaMarcus Ganaway took over as head coach of the Ohio County High School football team this summer, his main goal was to change the culture around the program.

Ganaway, an assistant under former head coach Jody Ashby last year, takes over an Eagles team that slipped to 2-9 last year. But, according to the former Kentucky Wesleyan and New York Jets receiver, plans are already in motion to improve that mark in 2017.

“The transition’s been pretty nice,” Ganaway said.

“It’s been easier than I thought it would be, to tell the truth. We’ve got the same kids coming back from last year and the same coaches. Everybody’s been gelling together, and we’re just continuing to build from last year.

“The kids were comfortable with me, and they’ve been willing to do what it takes to get better.”

OFFENSE

Senior quarterback Heath Simmons returns to lead the Eagles after throwing for 2,397 yards and 19 touchdowns as a junior.

The 6-4, 213-pounder also threw 14 interceptions, but he completed 62 percent of his passes, and his 218 yards per game ranked fifth in the state in Class 6-A. “He’s one of the best in the area, and I believe one of the best in the whole state,” Ganaway said.

“Heath will be back in full force, ready for his senior year.”

Freshman Keenan Baggarly and junior Nolan Morris will compete for the back-up spot.

Junior running back Caden Brown (5-10, 240) returns as Ohio County’s leading rusher. He ran for 379 yards and five touchdowns in 2016.

Sophomore Ethan Maddox and freshman Q’Daryius Jennings will also see time in the backfield as the Eagles look to establish a more balanced offensive attack.

“Offensively, we want to be fast-paced, and we want a great combination of run and pass where we can be successful on both sides of offense,” Ganaway said. “We want to keep the defense on their toes and keep them honest.”

Seniors Nick Morris and Seth Stevens return as a pair of experienced wideouts in Ohio County’s passing game. Morris (6-0, 165) hauled in 40 passes for 424 yards and three touchdowns last year, while Stevens (5-11, 190) had 31 receptions for 361 yards and three scores.

“Nick Morris has been looking really, really good,” Ganaway said.

“He’s comfortable with Heath. And Seth broke the single-season mark last year with over 200 yards in a game. Those two spots there, we’ve got senior leadership and quality guys.”

Junior Ben Wood (5-6, 140) returns after recording 25 catches for 329 yards and two TDs last year, and sophomore Shane Frady will fill the fourth spot in the Eagles’ spread offense.

Sophomores Kainan Miller, Dezmond Randolph, Lain Romero and Darren Scoggins may also make an impact.

The Eagles also feature

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com/geans@messenger-inquirer.com

Ohio County HIgh School quarterback Heath Simmons throws a pass to a teammate on Aug. 4 during practice at the high school in Hartford.

2017 SCHEDULE DATE OPPONENT TIME Aug. 18 McLean County 7 p.m.

Aug. 25 at Hopkins County Central 7 p.m.

Sept. 1 Hancock County 7 p.m.

Sept. 8 at Grayson County 7 p.m.

Sept. 15 Breckinridge County 7 p.m.

Sept. 22 at Henderson County 7 p.m.

Sept. 29 at McCracken County 7 p.m.

Oct. 13 Muhlenberg County 7 p.m.

Oct. 20 Daviess County 7 p.m.

Oct. 27 at Butler County 7 p.m.

an all-senior offensive line with Blaine Casteel (6-4, 280), Dylan Alsman (5-8, 225), Travis Unsel (5-9, 182), Robert Zunun (5-10, 230) and Jordan Stewart.

“We’ve got a good group at offensive line, senior leadership all the way down,” Ganaway said.

“That’s going to be a big part of our success.”

DEFENSE

Speed and aggressiveness will be keys to the Eagles’ defense, Ganaway said, and he expects big improvement after giving up nearly 43 points per game last season.

“I think defensively will be our biggest change,” he said. “Last year, we had our offensive line start on defense, and up front we were always tired. This year we’ll mix it up a little bit.”

Using a 4-2-5 lineup, Ohio County will rely on freshman Tristan Coffey and senior Cameron Leach at the defensive tackle spots, with Brown and Fradey manning the ends.

Maddox (team-best 42 tackles last year) and sophomore Bryson Baker will start at linebacker.

Several guys will get looks in the secondary, including Randolph and Morris at cornerback, Jennings at free safety, Wood at strong safety and sophomore Jordan Tolle (5-11, 160) at nickel corner.

“We’ve got some guys back there with some speed, and some guys willing to be nasty and get to the ball,” Ganaway said.

“They can track balls down and hopefully get some takeaways, too.”

be the team’s punter and top punt returner.

OUTLOOK

Though the Eagles struggled last year, Ganaway has confidence that his squad can bounce back in a big way.

BLAINE CASTEEL

“Right now, we have a motto of staying focused each day,” he said. “Win today, that’s what we say.

We’re going out there with the focus and the belief that if we give our best

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NICK MORRIS

HEATH SIMMONS

effort every day, we’ll be victorious in our efforts.

That’ll lead to some wins for us.”

And, he added, the effort so far has been nothing but positive.

“The morale is up, the kids have been working hard, and we’ve definitely been looking to come away with more than we did last year. We’re going for that winning season.”

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SPECIAL TEAMS

Senior Kennedy Addington returns as place-kicker after booting 14 extra points last season.

Morris and Wood will handle kickoff return duties, while Morris is also slated to

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