2014 gridiron guide
Post on 22-Nov-2015
106 Views
Preview:
DESCRIPTION
TRANSCRIPT
-
A Sepcial Section
of
The Lebanoin Dem
ocrat
MT juliet news
the hartsville vi
dette
-
Page 2 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
By Andy Reed
Often when a team plays two quarterbacks, its because neither one is good enough to do the job himself.Thats not the case at Cumberland, where
fifth-year seniors Reed Gurchiek and Broc Loveless are capable of handling the load by themselves, singular. Theya combined for 1,346 rushing yards, 1,287 passing yards and 23 combined touchdowns in the Bulldogs 7-4 season last year.Occasionally, both were on the field at the
same time late in the season. Expect to see more of that this time around.Both of them are really good players,
second-year CU coach Donnie Suber said of his signal-callers. We got to get them on the field one way or the other. Were going to do more with both of them on the field.Having two quarterbacks coming back is
a big thing, having them both work with the other guys, getting them ready to play. A lot of weight on Reed and Brocs shoulders.A lot of other positions arent nearly on as
solid footing.Fred Cross, who would have had the inside
track for the running back position after av-eraging 6.7 yards per carry last fall, will miss the season with a leg injury, leaving Suber, offensive coordinator Ryan Locke and running backs coach Bobby Brown looking for replace-ments. Suber said senior Blake DeBoard [5-foot-8, 182 pounds] could move from wide receiver. He also signed freshman Weylin Orr from Georgia.I have no idea, Suber said about the run-
ning back position the week before fall prac-tice began. Its up for grabs.If hes not in the backfield, DeBoard will
be in the wide-receiver mix with fourth-year junior Anthony Woodard [6-5, 186], third-year sophomore Michael Green [5-9,152] and fifth-year senior Cain Smith [6-3, 220]. Green caught 30 passes for 248 yards and two touchdowns, Woodard had 25 grabs for 290 yards and a score while DeBoard posted 17 catches, 148 yards and a score.Like the running back position, the cup-
board is pretty bare along the offensive front.We lost all of our starting offensive line-
men, Suber said. We signed 11-12 offensive line freshmen and have one transfer.The anchor of the line might well be third-
year sophomore Anthony Bartolomeo [6-5,274] of Lebanon, who played well in the spring. Fourth-year junior Dakota Davis [6-2, 281], sophomore Will Boler [6-6, 314] and North Dakota junior-college transfer Charles Fleming, a native of Miami, are also in the mix.Were going to be so young [up front], its
hard to say [whos going to play], Suber said. Offensive line is going to be a key, how fast the guys come along.Fourth-year junior Michael Self will replace
his former Friendship Christian-alumnus Beau Baker as the place-kicker and Mt. Ju-liets Tyler Emmetts as the punter.Defensively, senior Rickey Dowdy [6-1,
240], in his second CU season after transfer-ring from North Carolina State, will probably anchor the line at end. Fourth-year junior Cayman Russell [5-11, 245] and fifth-year senior Elvin Vann [6-1, 290], who didnt play last year, will be the tackles. Redshirt fresh-man Kendall Trice [5-10, 272] could also be in the mix.Fifth-year senior Corey Matyskela [5-10,
220] played some last year and figures to be the leading candidate at the other defensive end spot. Third-year sophomore Justus Daus-cha [6-2, 203] and fourth-year junior Andrew Leonard [6-1, 222] are also in the mix or they could move inside, said Suber, who is trying to fill a void left by the graduation of Water-towns Nick Lennox, who is now attending graduate school and playing American foot-ball in England.Lennox was second on the Bulldogs in tack-
les last year. Leading the team was outside linebacker Nathan Jernigan [5-11, 187], who posted 66 total stops and a Bulldog-leading four interceptions as a redshirt freshman. No. 3 was sophomore inside linebacker Christo-pher Golden [5-9, 195], who had 52 stops last year. Also on the inside will be Lebanon-native Kyle Musice [6-0, 200], the fifth-year senior from Friendship who missed last year because of injury.Three starters return in the secondary, in-
cluding senior Grant Jones [5-10, 187] and
fourth-year junior Anthony Knight [5-10, 181] at cornerback and third-year sophomore free safety Tyler Burr [6-0, 176].Third-year sophomore Edwin
Locklayer [5-9, 173], fifth-year senior Specner Chapel [6-1, 185] and red-shirt freshman DeAnthony Patrick [6-1, 219] are vying for the strong safety position. Sophomore Nytrel-lis Ross [6-0, 185] is vying for some snaps at cornerback.Defensively, well be smaller for
sure, but faster, I hope, said Suber, who runs that side of the operation. The key is going to be the line on both sides of the ball.We dont have the numbers we
had last year. Were counting on a bunch of freshmen and new kids to make an impact. Itll depend on how fast we jell and mature as a team.
Cumberland University BulldogsDivision: Mid-South Conference West Div.Head Coach: Donnie Suber2013 Record: 7-4 2014 SCHEDULE
Sept. 6 Cumberlands 1:30 p.m.
Sept. 11 at UT-Martin 6:30 p.m.
Sept. 20 *Belhaven 1:30 p.m.
Sept. 27 at Bluefield 12:30 p.m. CDT
Oct. 4 at Pikeville 12:30 p.m. CDT
Oct. 11 at Union College 12:30 p.m. CDT
Oct. 18 *at Faulkner 1:30 p.m.
Oct. 25 *Campbellsville 1:30 p.m.
Nov. 1 *at Bethel 2:30 p.m.
Nov. 8 *Reinhardt noon
Nov. 15 Alderson Broaddus noon
*Mid-South West Division game
EXPIRES 12/31/14. Not valid with other promotions or offers. Redeem only at Rose Tire & Service.
ROSE TIRE & SERVICEFALL Maintenance Special
$4495 Diesel or Specialty Vehicles Extra
Change Oil & Filter, Inspect Belts & Hoses, Rotate & Inspect Tires, Adjust Tire Pressure, Replace Wiper Blades (up to 24), Top Off Fluids & Test Charging System, Inspect Brakes
EXPIRES 12/31/14. Not valid with other promotions or offers. Redeem only at Rose Tire & Service.
VALUABLE COUPONCooling System& Radiator Flush
$1000 Drain, Flush & Refill Cooling System Add up to 2 Gallons Antifreeze Inspect Belts & Hoses 21 Point Safety Inspection
The Reg. Price Dexcool Extra Parts Extra Most VehiclesOFF
EXPIRES 12/31/14. Not valid with other promotions or offers. Redeem only at Rose Tire & Service.
COUPON
$1500Transmission
Flush
Most Vehicles Replace Fluid, Pan Gasket
& Filter (if necessary)
OFF
EXPIRES 12/31/14. Not valid with other promotions or offers. Redeem only at Rose Tire & Service.
VALUABLE COUPONFuel Saver Package
$9495 Drain Oil & Change Filter Clean Fuel Injectors Air Intakes Treat Fuel System & Lines Tire Balance & Rotation 21 Point Safety Inspection
Package Designed toPromote Fuel Savings& Vehicle Performance!
(615) 444-8120 rosetire.com1928 Leeville Pike Lebanon, TN 37090
Mon.Fri. 7:005:00Sat. 7:0012:00
Stop In & See Chip & The Rose Tire Team Today!
VOTED BEST TIRE STORE IN WILSON COUNTY!STOP BY TODAY!
EXPIRES 12/31/14. Not valid with other promotions or offers. Redeem only at Rose Tire & Service.
VALUABLE COUPONOil Change & Tire Rotation
Oil Change & Filter Add Up to 5 qts Premium Quality Oil Rotate 4 Tires & Check Pressure 21 point Safety Inspection
OFF$1000 Diesel & Specialty Vehicles May Not Apply
Veteran QB tandem leads a Bulldog team thin in spots
Mt. Juliets Reed Gurchiek [11] will share quarterbacking duties with fellow fifth-year senior Broc Loveless this fall. Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
Cornerback Grant Jones [4] dives for a possible interception last season.Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
-
GRIDIRON GUIDE 2013 n Page 3
By Andy Reed
Friendship Christian is a season removed from the second of back-to-back state champi-onships. Yet the Commanders still have plenty of experience from those teams which played for titles at Tennessee Techs Tucker Stadium.Stephen Hollis, who was named BlueCross
Bowl Offensive Most Valuable Player in 2012, is back for his senior season in the backfield. Classmate Austin Taylor, who scored touch-downs seemingly every time he touched the ball in the state finals, is also back.Both are big-play players, said 26-year
head coach John McNeal, whose Command-ers opened their Division II era last year with a 9-3 record.Also back in the backfield is senior fullback
Cody Walker, who will also line up at tight end, depending on the formation. Juniors Gene Carmen and Marshall Taylor could al-ternate between tailback and fullback while Hollis, Walker and Austin Taylor could join juniors Hayden White and Chris Mickle at wide receiver.We dont feel like locking them at differ-
ent positions, McNeal said.But with the ultra-talented A.J. Long now
at Syracuse University, there will be a new triggerman freshman Mike [Mikey] Jones Jr., who may have some of the skill sets of his predecessor. But there is a difference, at least for this year.The great thing about Mikey is were not
asking him to do everything, McNeal said. We have AT [Austin Taylor] and Hollis. Were asking [Jones] to keep defenses hon-est and use the experienced guys to get the job done. They ought to be able to pull the weight and bring it on their shoulders.Also pulling the weight on their shoulders
is an offensive line which returns four start-ers. The biggest name is Andrew Wood, who has been moved to left guard and has more than 15 college offers. He will line up next to senior center Colton Gaines. On the right side, senior Jeff Cherry will line up at tackle next to junior guard Nick Norton.Only at left tackle is there some uncer-
tainty as sophomores Hunter Williams and Gregory Elliott and junior Phillip Wilkerson are working.But like the backfield, the names may be
the same, but the positions could change.They could be anywhere across the way,
McNeal said. All these positions could be in-terchangeable. We have more depth this year than weve had.But theyre not so deep to keep them from
having to play most of them on defense as well.Gaines, Wood and Cherry figure to join ju-
nior Joshua Eatherly along the defensive line. Eatherly could also play on the offensive side.Up front we are bigger, stronger, more ex-
perienced like we were a couple of years ago, McNeal said. A little more depth. The lines where we probably have the most depth.
Austin Taylor, Marshall Taylor [not related], Walker, Carmen and junior Gage Bentley will be the linebackers.Hollis and junior Will Burruss will be the
cornerbacks. Jones, White, Mickle and sopho-more Spencer Burge will vie for time at safety.Friendship graduated just five seniors from
last years team. But two of them were kick-ers. McNeal was trying junior Jonathan Luck at place kicker early in fall practice. He had to think awhile before deciding Jones might get first crack at punter, at least at the outset.
We got guys back who played a lot and we got guys back who played a lot because we were thin in some areas, McNeal said. They have experience they would not have otherwise.The Commanders also have a year of
D-II under their belt, though McNeal said it wasnt much of a difference from decades in Division I. Off-and-on rivals like Davidson Academy, Donelson Christian, Ezell-Harding and Franklin Road Academy are more per-manently on the schedule, much like during
a stretch during the 1990s when they were in a private school region.We had played most of those teams,
said McNeal, who didnt note the absence of longtime rivals Watertown and Gordonsville from the schedule, replaced by reigning D-II-A champion Knoxville Webb. It was just a different format as far as how they set up the districts.McNeal and the Commanders will aim for
results identical to their final two D-I seasons a state championship.
Friendship Christian CommandersDistrict-Class: 1-AHead Coach: John McNeal2013 Record: 9-3 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22 at Harding Academy 7 p.m.Sept. 5 *at Kings Academy 6 p.m. Sept. 12 Trousdale County 7:30 p.m.Sept. 19 *Knoxville Webb 7:30 p.m.Sept. 26 at Franklin Road Acad 7 p.m.Oct. 3 *Mt. Juliet Christian 7 p.m.Oct. 10 Davidson Academy 7 p.m.Oct. 19 *at Donelson Christian 7 p.m.Oct. 24 at Fayetteville 7 p.m.Oct. 30 *Ezell-Harding 7 p.m.*East-Middle Region game
Experience, depth, size added to explosive playmakers
Go Team!Auto Home Life
Wes DuganAgency Manager
Castle Heights214 North Castle Heights Ave. Ste. A Lebanon
453-9702
www.ligonbobo.com
Have A Great Season!
Friendship Christian running back Austin Taylor [8] turns the corner against Westmoreland after getting interference from Will Burruss [21] for a long touchdown in last weeks jamboree.Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
Jonathan Luck practices his field-goal kicking out of Jordan McNamees hold. Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
-
Page 4 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
By Andy Reed
Entering his second season as Lebanon head coach, Sam Harp is trying to mix and match pieces, mostly young, to the Blue Devil football puzzle.He does have a trio of stalwarts, though
one will likely start the season on the in-jured list.With last years starting quarterback
Christian Haffner transferred to Oak-land, junior Jarren Stewart [5-foot-9, 180 pounds] has shifted to the shotgun position where he will be backed up by sophomore Jackson Gray [5-10, 180]. As a running back last year, Stewart broke his ankle in the opener against Mt. Juliet and didnt return until late in the year.Jarren has a good, strong arm, Harp
said. Hes still learning the quarterback position. But he can run and extend the play with his feet. If people bring pres-sure on him, thats not necessarily a bad thing because he can get out and extend the play.Jackson throws a good, catchable ball
and he gets better everyday,With Stewart moved to quarterback,
that leaves only three running backs Harp feels he can play on Friday nights, not counting Stewart himself. But one of those is senior Taye Davis, a 6-3 , 235-pound senior with about a half-dozen scholarship offers who overcame persis-tent cramping issues to run for 1,007 yards to become Lebanons most depend-able mode of transporting the football.Hes got the body and physical attri-
butes to do extremely well, Harp said of Davis, who will be joined and/or backed up in the backfield by senior Raheem Reynolds [5-10, 160], who didnt play last year, and sophomore Joseph Taylor [5-9, 175].The third standout is senior tight end/
defensive end Julian Crutchfield [6-3, 260], who has a couple of offers. But he underwent knee surgery after injuring it while playing AAU basketball. Harp said hes not expected to be cleared to return until September.His difficulty will be getting back
in condition, Harp said. We need the leadership he brings to the team. Thats huge.Many of the other positions will be a
hodgepodge of lineups to fit the multiple sets on both sides of the ball.Were doing a lot of different things
this year from what we did last year, said Harp, whose Blue Devils went 2-8 in his first season in Tennessee in 2013 after winning 326 games and seven state cham-pionships in Kentucky. Weve done a lot of shifting around to fit the offense and defense around the personnel weve got.There figures to be a lot of mixing and
matching at tight end and receiver. Senior Kyle Santana [6-2, 200] and sophomores Owen Pryor [6-2, 175] and Cameron Young [6-2, 210] will be the tight ends. Senior Darshon Patel [5-8, 150], juniors Cameron Thompson [6-1, 170] and Damerius [Truck] Weir [5-9, 165] and sophomore Corbin Pickard [5-8, 155] will be the receivers.We work quite a few of them in there,
Harp said.The offensive front is more settled,
though mostly inexperienced. Senior center John Huddleston [5-9, 180] is the only returning starter. Hell be backed up by sophomore Nick Andrews [6-0, 225].Junior Mason Reeves [5-9, 215] and sophomore
Jaden Moore [5-10, 230] will be the guards with junior Justin Brown [5-10, 200] in reserve.Juniors J.R. Kirby [6-1, 200] and Isaiah Moore
[6-0, 275] and sophomore Chris Draper [6-0, 270] will rotate at tackle.There will be just as much mixing and matching in
defensive coordinator David Williams unit.Well be in just about every front you can imag-
ine, Harp said of the defense.Brown and sophomore J.W. Baird [6-1, 240] are
expected to be the ends with Draper and senior Pierre Abston [5-11, 305] the tackles.Senior Jason Wilkerson [6-0, 210] brings some
experience to linebacker where hell be joined by Kirby, juniors David Davis [5-10, 165] and Moham-mad Al-geda [5-9, 185] and sophomore Brett Hutto [5-9, 160].Those guys are capable of playing inside or out-
side, Harp said of the linebackers.In the secondary, opposing quarterbacks and re-
ceivers may have trouble telling twin sophomore cornerbacks DeAndre and DeAnthony Harris [both about 5-9, 145] apart. Stewart will be a third corner with Weir, Patel and senior D.J. Baker the safeties.Probably the biggest downfall for the Blue Devils
in 2013 came on special teams. To that end, sopho-more Logan White is joining the football team from soccer to do the place kicking. Stewart, Reeves and Baker are being looked at to punt.If we could kick extra points last year, we would
have won three more games, Harp said. It was pitiful.This thing is new to [White], but Logans im-
proved significantly everyday and I like what Ive seen in him. Hes a hard worker. Im confident he can take the place-kicking duties and run with it.Whites work ethic is shared by the team, Harp said.Were really young. A majority of them are soph-
omores, Harp said. Theyre a hard-working bunch. I think theyre only going to get better everyday. They havent been in the wars or battles of varsity football games. Everytime they go out its going to be a new experience for them. They have a positive attitude and they work hard.Were not really big right now. The guys we have
are probably going to get bigger as they get older. Its been fun, enjoyable working with these kids. They want to do well. They want to work hard. For the most part, they pay attention when you coach them up.I hope we win some games early to get us going.
We need to get a signature win soon.Leadership will help.When you have guys like Jarren and Julian and
Taye to sprinkle in there around them, it helps out a bunch.
Lebanon Blue DevilsDistrict-Class: 9-AAAHead Coach: Sam Harp2013 Record: 2-8 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22. *at Mt. Juliet 7 p.m.Aug. 29 at Franklin County 7 p.m.Sept. 5 *Hendersonville 7 p.m.Sept. 12 at Lincoln County 7:30 p.m.Sept. 19 *at Station Camp 7 p.m.Sept. 26 at Cookeville 7 p.m.Oct. 3 *Gallatin 7 p.m.Oct. 10 *Portland 7 p.m.Oct. 24 *Wilson Central 7 p.m.Oct. 31 *Beech 7 p.m.*District 9-AAA game
Harp looks to trio to lead young Blue Devils
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
P097314.1
When I say good, you say neighbor.
Now that's teamwork.Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
P097314.1 State Farm Home Office, Bloomington, IL
When I say good, you say neighbor.
Now that's teamwork.Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
Now thats teamwork.
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
Go Team!Auto Home Life
Wes DuganAgency Manager
Castle Heights214 North Castle Heights Ave. Ste. A Lebanon
453-9702
www.ligonbobo.com
Have A Great Season!
Lebanon quarterback Jarren Stewart throws a pass. Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
Running back Taye Davis [28] reaches back to snag a pitch. Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
all out
all game, al
l season
-
GRIDIRON GUIDE 2013 n Page 5
By Andy Reed
Since he was a football coaching lad at Westmoreland, Roger Perry has run the wing-T offense. He ran it with the Eagles, Portland and, since 2006, Mt. Juliet.Now his son, Trey, is overseeing
an overhaul of the attack which, if Roger were deceased, would prob-ably have him turning over in his grave.But Roger Perry is very much up-
right and on his sons staff as direc-tor of football operations. Trey Perry said his dad is doing fine by the changes.He said well still block down and
kick out and run the sweep, Trey Perry said.While the offense, with a large
nucleus of young players to go with the new system, tries to jell, a vet-eran defense will try to lead the way as the Golden Bears seek a bounce back from an injury-riddled 4-6 sea-son which followed back-to-back state semifinal appearances.Last year, all these guys got play-
ing experience because of injuries, said Trey Perry, whose baptism as a head coach came in 2013. At that time it was a tough deal for us to swallow.But now were appreciative be-
cause all of these guys have been in the fire. There are not many situations these guys are going to step into on Friday night and be surprised by.There should be few surprises for the de-
fense, which returns 10 players who started at least some games last year.One of those is senior tackle Deon Clem-
mons [5-foot-10, 230 pounds]. Senior C.J. Brooks [6-1, 245] is a three-year starter who will play the 4-2-5 systems version of nose-guard. Another three-year starter, senior Cashuss Reid [6-0, 220] will line up at one end while sophomore Colt Jones [6-3, 245] and senior Caleb Wethington [6-0, 215] will rotate at the other.Senior Bobby Kisley [5-10, 210] will return
at strongside linebacker while junior Jona-than Jenkins [5-11, 198] is back on the weak-side. Sophomore Aaron Weist [6-1, 235] will rotate with both.Senior Will Richman [5-8, 195] will open
at one hybrid, which is like a strong safety, while senior Tavner Simmons [5-11, 175] re-turns at another, at least for the time being as junior returning starter Justyce White [6-1, 190] returns from an early-camp injury. Trey Perry said even when White returns, Simmons will start somewhere.Senior Matt Massey [6-2, 175] returns at
one cornerback while classmate Thomas Harmon [5-10, 180] started a few games at the other.Senior Peyton Haynes [5-10, 180] returns
at one nickelback, which is like a free safety. Senior Garrett Zickgraf [5-8, 190] will rotate at the position.Defensively, I would call us very expe-
rienced and very, very experienced in the secondary, Trey Perry said. Smart defense does along with experience.I wouldnt call us big defensively, but we
can all move. As an example, C.J. Brooks runs a 4.9-40. Theres nobody on the defen-sive front that runs above 5-flat. They teach our offense everyday in practice.The offense should be diversified if only
because seniors Alex Landis [6-3, 170] and Nolan Chowbay [6-0, 210] will platoon at quarterback. Landis took over after Chowbay separated his shoulder during last seasons third game, at Station Camp.We should be able to give people matchup
problems with our quarterbacks, who bring different skill sets to table, but can be used effectively in the scheme, Trey Perry said.With the change from the wing-T to the
spread, the fullback is a thing of the past. Last years fullback, senior Kyle Mahler [5-5, 205] will platoon with junior Jahaur Jackson [5-8, 195] at B-back, which is the primary ball-carrying position. Junior Josh Williams [6-0, 210], will be the H-back, which is a hy-brid of the fullback and tight end, which has also been scrapped.Haynes and junior Darius Lowery [5-10,
190] will platoon in the slot. Junior Myles Fisher [6-1, 170] will line up at the Z-receiver
and junior Austin Simpson [6-0, 160] is the X. Zickraf will be what Perry called a utility player who can fill multiple roles.Up front, sophomores will man the two
tackle spots most of the time with Brooks alternating on both sides. Justin Satterfield [6.7, 274] and D.J. Delfendahl [6-4, 250], who started two games as a freshman at the
defunt tight end position, bring size to the end positions.The middle of the interior is much more
experienced with senior center/long snap-per Chris Harper [5-11, 196] a three-year starter. Senior J.J. Sims [5-10, 260] will be at right guard and junior Kalani Smith [6-0, 270] on the left side.Offensively, were making progress every
day, Perry said. For the first time in a long time, up front were going to be young, but were going to be big.Mt. Juliet has had some very good kickers
in recent years and Oakland transfer Hayes Foster figures to continue that tradition in this, his senior season. Senior Justen Dubay is back as the punter and will also handle some kickoffs. Foster has been to several kicking camps and will work under former Hendersonville and Tennessee Vol kicker James Wilhoit.Hes got a big leg, Perry said of Foster.
We are very, very excited about our special-ists, and weve had some good ones.
Mt. Juliet Golden BearsDistrict-Class: 9-AAAHead Coach: Trey Perry2013 Record: 4-6 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22 *Lebanon 7 p.m. Aug. 29 at Antioch 7 p.m.Sept. 5 *Station Camp 7 p.m.Sept. 12 at Blackman 7 p.m.Sept. 19 *at Wilson Central 7 p.m.Sept. 26 Centennial 7 p.m.Oct. 3 *Beech 7 p.m.Oct. 10 *at Hendersonville 7 p.m.Oct. 24 *Gallatin 7 p.m.Oct. 30 *at Portland 7 p.m.*District 9-AAA game
Bears to lean on veteran defense as offense adjusts to spread
www.ligonbobo.com
Have A Great Season!
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
P097314.1
When I say good, you say neighbor.
Now that's teamwork.Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
P097314.1 State Farm Home Office, Bloomington, IL
When I say good, you say neighbor.
Now that's teamwork.Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
Now thats teamwork.
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
Debbie MossCircuit Court Clerk-Elect
Paid for by Debbie Moss
A special thanks to all my family, especially my Aunt Bea Hallums, sisters, Judy Sherry, and Trish,
my wonderful husband Charlie, my daughters Samantha and Sydney, my dedicated Mt. Juliet
Hardees Committee and I am most thankful to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Thank you to the voters of Wilson County.
H H H
Kicker Hayes Foster [34] approaches the ball. Photo: George Page Mt. Juliet News
Mt. Juliet lines up at the line of scrimmage. Photo: George Page Mt. Juliet News
-
Page 6 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
By Andy Reed
Mt. Juliet Christians freshmen enjoyed the schools first-ever undefeated football season as middle-schoolers a year ago.New varsity coach Dan Davis wants that group to translate
the feeling of winning to the high school, which has never won more than four games in a season since the program kicked off in 2001.This is going to be a group that changes the tide at MJCA,
said Davis, the Saints fifth head coach who is inheriting a 3-7 team from Jake Roberts, who left to take an assistants position at Karns High near Knoxville. You have a few upper-classmen who are ready for something different, and winning sounds like a good idea.Its the right group of people at the right time.But what is the right offense and defense for the Saints?Your guess is as good as mine, said Davis, who was work-
ing as an assistant at Pearl-Cohn a year ago. Im just trying to find it out myself.Were still trying to figure what they can and cant do.
Davis does have a veteran quarterback to trigger the offense. Senior left-hander Rik Vanmali [6-foot-1, 210 pounds] returns under center or in shotgun.Junior Race McLean [5-8, 170], sophomore Sam Easton [5-
10, 165] and senior Peyton Sloan [5-8, 170] will be in the backfield in whatever formation Davis ultimately decides on.Seniors Newman Ward [6-7, 180] and Landon Boyd [6-1,
165], junior Nate Green [6-1, 170] and freshman Preston Sloan [Peytons brother] will be the wideouts. Senior Michael Gallione [5-7, 185] will line up at the tight end or H-back po-sitions.I like my back seven, my skill guys, said Davis, who has
between 25-29 players out. I need more big guys, but most coaches are going to ask for those.These are the big guys he has on the offensive line cen-
ter Christian Webster [5-11, 215], senior guard Miles Guidry [6-0, 215], junior guard Josiah Scott [6-2, 280], sophomore Michael Cammon [5-10, 190] and possibly freshman Reagan Ward [6-2, 280].On defense, Ward and Cammon will be the ends and Web-
ber and Scott the tackles.Guidry and Gallione will be the inside linebackers with Boyd
and freshman Tristan Mathis [6-1, 160] on the outside.Easton and freshman Alex Pitman [6-0, 165] are expected
to be the cornerbacks with Green the free safety.Boyd was handling the place-kicking and punting duties a
week into fall practice.Davis said the adjustment from public-school Pearl-Cohn to
private MJCA has gone well.Its been good, he said. We have really good kids. They
show up everyday. They do what I ask.
Mt. Juliet Christian SaintsDistrict-Class: East/Middle 1-AHead Coach: Dan Davis2013 Record: 3-7 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22. Whitwell 7 p.m.Sept. 5 at Middle TN Christian 7 p.m.Sept. 12 Oakdale 7 p.m.Sept. 19 *Ezell-Harding 7 p.m.Sept. 26 at Huntland 7 p.m.Oct. 3 *at Friendship Christian 7 p.m.Oct. 10 at Pickett County 7 p.m.Oct. 17 *Kings Academy 7 p.m.Oct. 24 at Zion Christian 7 p.m.Oct. 31 *Donelson Christian 7 p.m.*East-Middle District 1-A game
New coach, freshmen class aim to bring winning to MJCA
SERVICES OFFERED:Water Heaters Backflow Installation Repair and Testing Leak Detection Sump Pumps Water and Gas Piping
Faucets Clogged Drains Appliance Hook-ups Install Fixtures Pressure Reducing Valves Hydrants
Shower Heads Septic Tanks Water Lines RemodelingWater Softeners and Conditioners Winterization of Homes
New Construction
Office: 615-449-5019 Fax: 615-453-0173www.stevemullplumbing.com
For All Your Plumbing Needs
New Mt. Juliet Christian coach Dan Davis talks to the offense. Photo: George Page Mt. Juliet News
Former Vanderbilt and NFL defensive back Brenard Wilson gives tips to Mt. JulietChristians receivers and DBs. Photo: George Page Mt. Juliet News
Veteran quarterback Rik Vanmali practices hit timing passes. Photo: George Page Mt. Juliet News
-
GRIDIRON GUIDE 2013 n Page 7
By Terry McCormickTitaninsider.com
Life begins anew for the Tennessee Titans this fall.For the first time in 20
years, there is a completely different approach to the franchise, as Ken Whisen-hunt takes over as head coach, bringing with him new systems on both offense and defense.For 17 years, dating back
to the Houston Oilers days, Jeff Fisher was in charge, and even after he left follow-ing the Titans collapse in the 2010 season, many felt that his replacement, Mike Munchak, was an extension of many of the things Fisher had done. After all, Mu nchak had been the offensive line coach for nearly the entire tenure of Fishers regime.But with Whisenhunts ar-
rival comes a fresh approach. The former Arizona Cardinals head coach comes to Nash-ville, inheriting a team that has some pieces of the puzzle, but enters the season with plenty of questions and in dire need of a culture change after five straight years out of the playoffs.I felt like the chemistry
with this group of men was something that was build-ing on the positive side, but theres so much yet that we have to determine, Whisen-hunt said at the start of train-ing camp. We have to go through adversity, thats part of forging a team. I like the guys, I respect the amount of work that they put in, and if we can have a good camp, were certainly excited about the season.Already, the players are
taking notice, as new lead-ership in players like Ber-nard Pollard, Delanie Walker, Wesley Woodyard and Shaun Phillips has arrived in the past two years to help change that culture and teach some of the younger players what it takes to win.Its a different team now.
Its a different team in the fact that its different all the way around. You see this team in a positive direction, aimed in the right direction. The guys weve brought in the last two years, the coaching staff all of this you can see where this team can go, safety Michael Griffin said.Griffin, who has been a
Titan his entire career, sees a completely different mindset from the players.Its a different mood when
you come here. Youre just excited and ready to play football, Griffin said. (Be-fore) you just had a lot of guys that had other things on their minds. Other things were more important. They were just happy to be here rather than more happy to win foot-ball games. That being said, the guys who are here (now) want to play football. Gone are former first-
rounders Chris Johnson and Kenny Britt as part of the process of the makeover in Whisenhunts image. Back is Jake Locker, who has one last chance to stay healthy and show the Titans he can be considered a franchise-type quarterback.Locker has shown flashes
of that in his first three sea-sons, but too much time missed with injuries and too many system changes have kept him from fully grow-ing into that position. And while the Titans took a late flier on Zach Mettenberger in the draft, the truth is, they will sink or swim this season based up on the success of Locker, who is learning his third offensive scheme in four years. Not that he seems to mind, however, as he seems to feel Whisenhunts system can be a good fit.For me, once you get the
verbiage and youre able to paint a picture when you call
Division: AFC SouthHead Coach: Ken Whisenhunt
2014 SCHEDULESept. 7 at Kansas City noonSept. 14 Dallas noonSept. 21 at Cincinnati noonSept. 28 at Indianapolis noonOct. 5 Cleveland noonOct. 12 Jacksonville noonOct. 19 at Washington noonOct. 26 Houston noonNov. 9 at Baltimore noonNov. 17 Pittsburgh 7:30 p.m.Nov. 23 at Philadelphia noonNov. 30 at Houston noonDec. 7 New York Giants noonDec. 14 New York Jets 3:05 p.m.Dec. 18 at Jacksonville 7:25 p.m.Dec. 28 Indianapolis noon
Tennessee Titans begin new era with new coach
a play, thats when it becomes really comfortable for me. As youre calling the play, youre picturing the routes that you have downfield, and thats when I know Im getting re-ally comfortable with what were doing, Locker said. I feel with the majority of the stuff weve put in, I can call it and I can see it before I even get to the line of scrimmage.Locker is also asserting
himself as more of a leader now, something that is neces-sary if he is to be the Titans on-field leader.I think theres a reason the
quarterback is asked to be a leader. Thats a role Im ex-cited about the opportunity to embrace, Locker said. It hasnt changed as far as the first time I talked to you guys as far as going out and letting my actions speak, but I do feel at this point, com-ing into my fourth year, Ive earned the respect of the guys in that locker room and I feel like theyll listen when I say things and get the opportu-nity to pick and choose times to speak up a little more now and be a little more vocal than I have been in the past.The makeover of the of-
fense continues beyond just a change in the system. The Titans have continued to rework the offensive line, changing four-fifths of it the
past two years (plus drafting Taylor Lewan, who might not even start as a first-round rookie). They jettisoned Johnson and his $8 million base salary in favor of more versatile running backs like rookie Bishop Sankey and free-agent pickup Dexter McCluster. Jackie Battle fig-ures as both a tailback and a fullback for Tennessee, while Leon Washington provides insurance in addition to re-turning kicks.At receiver Kendall Wright
continues to be a mainstay after catching 94 passes a year ago, and Nate Washing-ton is a steady veteran still capable of producing. The wild-card is second-year pro Justin Hunter, who had only 18 catches as a rookie, but will get lots more opportuni-ties this year as the Titans hope his production skyrock-ets based on his ability to run and jump for the football.Delanie Walker had a solid
first season in Tennessee and should build upon that, while Craig Stevens and Taylor Thompson, who caught five passes between them a year ago, should both be used a little more often in the pass-ing game.Defensively, fans wont
readily recognize the Titans defense when it takes the field for training camp. Thats
because they brought in long-time Whisenhunt ally Ray Horton to run a 3-4 defense, meaning that players like Der-rick Morgan and Kamerion Wimbley are now lineback-ers rather than ends, and that Jurrell Casey, who had 10.5 sacks as a 4-3 tackle, is now a five-technique end.A lot of times (pass) rush-
ing is about one-on-one rush, and its about beating the guy across from you. At the end of the day, Ive got to do it from the inside or from the out-side.So far, Casey likes the 3-4
and said the Titans have been adjusting well.I think its a great move.
Nobody has had a problem with it. I think we transition very well. Were executing, and now its just about going out there and see how we play in situations, Casey said.In addition to Casey, Sam-
mie Hill will start at nose tackle, while Ropati Pitoitua will man the other end posi-tion. Other defensive linemen in the mix include nose tackle Al Woods, rookie end DaQuan Jones, veteran end Karl Klug and a pair of linemen who have been hurt early in camp Mike Martin and Antonio Johnson.At linebacker, there will be
a big adjustment for former first-round choice Derrick
Morgan, who has played de-fensive end for four seasons in Tennessee. He has not played from a two-point stance since his junior year at Georgia Tech.I feel like I can rush the
passer. Thats what I was brought in to do. I feel like I can cover if need be, Morgan said. Im still playing in the NFL. This is a great job. This is a change-up, but something Im definitely going to em-brace and work hard at. On the opposite side, Ka-
merion Wimbley gets a new lease on life going back to outside linebacker, a spot he played in stops with Cleve-land and Oakland. Akeem Ayers and situational rusher Shaun Phillips, a free agent pickup, are the primary back-ups. Special teams ace Patrick Bailey is also in that mix on the outside.On the inside, ex-Bronco
Wesley Woodyard starts on the strong side, while Zach Brown, an outside linebacker in the 4-3, starts on the weak-side. Zaviar Gooden will push Brown, who has occasionally found himself in the teams doghouse. Former mainstays Colin McCarthy (currently out with a shoulder injury) and Moise Fokou are fighting for roster spots against the likes of rookie Avery Williamson, whom the Titans are high on
for the future at an inside po-sition.In the secondary, the one
true position battle to be decided is between Coty Sensabaugh and Blidi Wreh-Wilson at cornerback, re-placing Pro Bowl free agent defection Alterraun Verner. The loser of that competition will still man the nickelback role. Jason McCourty is steady at the other corner spot, while Griffin and Pollard man the safety positions, backed up by George Wilson and Daimion Stafford.There are even changes
afoot on special teams where Maikon Bonani and Travis Coons will vie to replace Rob Bironas as the Titans kicker, hoping to do well enough to convince the team not to bring in a veteran or camp cut from the outside.Brett Kern is locked in as
the punter, while Washing-ton, Marc Mariani and Mc-Cluster are vying for the returners role.As the Titans get ready
for the 2014 season, there are plenty of question marks and plenty of things yet to be sorted out, but with a new coach, new system and new attitude, things may fi-nally be back on the uptick in Tennessee.
Veteran quarterback Rik Vanmali practices hit timing passes. Photo: George Page Mt. Juliet News
Titans linemen Taylor Lewan [77], Michael Roos [71] and Lanier Coleman [76] listen to an assistant coach.Photo: Bobby Reynolds The Lebanon Democrat
Receiver Eric Ward [18] runs after catching a pass. Photo: Bobby Reynolds The Lebanon Democrat
-
Page 8 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
By Jerry Richmond
For a team picked third in District 8-A by sports writ-ers and second by coaches, the Trousdale County Yellow Jackets didnt do too badly for themselves last year.The Yellow Jackets went
14-0 and brought home an-other 2A state champion-ship, giving the school nine trophies now on display at 265 West McMurry.To go undefeated,
Trousdale County had to win a double-overtime game at Sycamore, block an extra point against Gallatin, re-cover from a 21-point third-quarter deficit at DeKalb County, had to travel to Knoxville Grace in the semi-finals and come from behind against Adamsville in the BlueCross Bowl.The key to our success
last year was getting a lot of momentum early, having a lot of good senior leadership and having good followers that followed the lead of the seniors, coach Kevin Creasy said. Then once we won a couple close ballgames our confidence got up a bit and we played better than a lot of people expected, might even played over our heads a little bit a couple of games. But our guys played with a lot of heart and a lot of guts.Expectations always run
high in Trousdale County, and those expectations are ramped up this year as coaches from across the state have picked the Jackets No. 1 at the 2A level. Rounding out the top 10 are Adams-ville, Trinity Christian, Knox Grace, Huntingdon, Marion
County, Peabody, Mitchell and Boyd-Buchanan with Goodpasture and Oneida tied for 10th.Last year we were kind of
a dark horse, Creasy said. A lot of people were count-ing us out and a lot of people thought we were not very good. We were not on every-bodys radar.This year we know that
we are going to have a bulls-eye on our chest and every-body thinks they are playing the state champion, even though they are really not. The state champion team was last years team.The Jackets will try to re-
peat as state champion for the third time in school his-tory. They won back-to-back titles in 1997 and 98 and in 2008 and 09.We know we have our
work cut out for us, Creasy
said. It is always harder to repeat.We have been through it
before. In 09 it was a whole lot harder than 08.This years team will be
led by eight seniors who have put together 31 wins against only six losses in their previous three seasons.The STAR Physical Ther-
apy 2A preseason all-state team includes three of those seniors running back Ke-nyon Harper [5-foot-11, 192 pounds], tight end Seth Holder [6-3, 232] and de-fensive back Zack Blackwell [5-8, 160].Harper had 181 carries for
1,800 yards and 27 touch-downs in 2013. He also caught 31 passes for 582 yards and nine touchdowns, plus three special-team scores on two punt returns and a kickoff runback.
Trousdale County Yellow JacketsDistrict-Class: 8-AHead Coach: Kevin Creasy2013 Record: 14-0 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22 Macon County 7 p.m.Aug. 29 Sycamore 7 p.m.Sept. 5 *at Watertown 7 p.m.Sept. 12 at Friendship Christian 7 p.m.Sept. 19 *Goodpasture 7 p.m.Sept. 26 at Gallatin 7 p.m.Oct. 3 DeKalb County 7 p.m.Oct. 10 Loretto 7 p.m.Oct. 17 *at Gordonsville 7 p.m.Oct. 30 *Red Boiling Springs 7 p.m.*District 8-A game
Defending champion Jackets wont sneak up on teams this time
Good Luck
Jackets!Best wishes for a safeand successful season!
330 BroadwayHartsville, Tennessee 37074
615-374-2986 www.tcemc.org
owned & operated by those we serveElectric
Tri-County
Proud Supporter of
The Yellow Jackets
615-374-3556HartsvilleVidette.com
Coach Kevin Creasy shows Trousdale Countys scout team the next play.Photo: Marie Corhern Hartsville Vidette
Senior Seth Holder tackles sophomore Jay Tubbs [2]. Photo: Marie Corhern Hartsville Vidette
-
GRIDIRON GUIDE 2013 n Page 9
Lets go yeLLow jackets!
lets go
100 McMurry Boulevard Po Box 45Hartsville, tN 37074
ph: 615-374-2265, 615-254-3279 tf: 800-337-4742 f: 615-374-9571
cBtenn.com100 McMurry Boulevard | PO Box 45 | Hartsville,TN 37074 | ph: 615-374-2265, 615-254-3279 | tf: 800-337-4742 | f: 615-374-9571
info@CBTenn.com | CBTenn.com100 McMurry Boulevard | PO Box 45 | Hartsville,TN 37074 | ph: 615-374-2265, 615-254-3279 | tf: 800-337-4742 | f: 615-374-9571
info@CBTenn.com | CBTenn.com
EQUAL HOUSINGLENDER
Pictured: Dustin Dillehay
Hartsville Printing, L.L.C.Printing For Every Occasion
615-374-2691Fax 615-374-2462
202 River Street Hartsville, TN 37074hartsvilleprintingco@netscape.com
Since 1978
Letterheads Envelopes FormsBanners Signs Wedding Accessories
Good Luck onThis Season!
P.O. Box 224 - 207B BroadwayHartsville,TN 37074
Office: (615) 374-3320 Fax: (615) 374-3325
www.trousdalecomfort.com
Go,YellowJackets!
G & L Garden Centerwith Unique Creations
Shrubs Flowers Gifts
615-374-2331Fax: 615-374-2335
Find beautiful touches to enhance your yard and landscape.
113 W. McMurry Blvd. Hartsville, TN 37074
HOURS:Mon.-Sat. 8:00-5:00 p.m. Sun. 1:00-5:00 p.m.
DONOHO, TAYLOR & TAYLORAttorneys at LawGeneral Practice
Eddie Taylor Betty Lou Taylor
204 Court St., P.O. Box 179 Hartsville, TN 37074
615-374-3004615-633-4400
Fax: 615-374-2267
207 E. McMurry Blvd. Hartsville, TNhartsvillepharmacy@yahoo.com
Hartsville Pharmacy & Gift Shop
Amy & Tom BroylesPharmacist/Owner
Fast FriendlyService from PeopleYouKnowandTrust
Hours:Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 6p.m. , Sat. 8 a.m. - 1p.m.
Gift ShopOersBridalRegistryBabyRegistry 615-374-4353
GOYELLOWJACKETS!
Proudly Supporting Local Football
Stop by and see us, give us a call at 615-374-2147 or visit us on
the web at www.tcathartsville.edu
150 Middle Ford Rd. Hartsville, TN 37074 615-374-3344E-mail: carcarman@hughes.net
Carroll CarmanLand Surveying
Tennessee Registered Land Surveyor No. 910
...serving middle Tennessee since 1977
The highest standardsin service, reliability
and technology.(Were friendly, too)
Holder grabbed eight passes for 183 yards and three touchdowns last year. Defensively, he was cred-ited with 71 tackles, four sacks, three blocked extra points and two blocked punts from his tackle spot.As a junior, Blackwell rushed for
837 yards and eight touchdowns and caught 11 passes for 133 yards and two more trips to the end zone. From his strong safety position he made 59 tackles while coming up with two interceptions and a pair of fumble recoveries.The Jackets are also solid at
quarterback where three-year starter Marquel Claiborne [5-11, 180] shows the way. He threw for 1,054 yards and 16 touchdowns on 59-of-108 passing last year. He also ran for 386 yards and six touchdowns on 99 carries.I am real happy with the se-
niors, Creasy said. They havent
been a bunch that have sat on their accomplishments from last year. They continue to work and have really hit the weight room hard in the offseason. It has been really impressive to see their weight room numbers jump and becoming better football players all around.The District 8-A coaches have
picked the Jackets to win their league. Gordonsville, Goodpas-ture, Watertown and Red Boiling Springs round out the anticipated order of finish.The Jackets will open at home
in Week 0 with Macon County on Aug. 22 before playing host to Syc-amore the following week. They will check out Watertowns new facilities Sept. 3. Down the road a trip to the Wave Yard on Sept. 26 for Gallatins homecoming will draw lots of attention.
hustle,
HIT, and nev
er QUIT
Coach Kevin Creasy hands the ball to Jay Tubbs [2]. Photo: Marie Corhern Hartsville Vidette
-
Page 10 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
By Andy Reed
There will be a lot of new for the Watertown Purple Tigers this season.New game field, new practice
field, new fieldhouse, new locker rooms, new weight room, new campus. It is the first time the Purple Tigers have ever had a full-sized practice field and the first time they have a full field-house after more than 80 years at the historic campus on West Main Street.They got a lot of pride in it,
said Gavin Webster, who will enter his 10th season as head coach. Theyre proud of what they have. The kids deserve it. Everybodys excited.Were trying to kick off some
new traditions.Most of the players who will
break in those facilities this fall wont be new, but they will be young.Weve got a lot of experienced
kids, but they were freshmen last year, said Webster, whose Tigers endured a 2-8 campaign in the final year behind the for-mer Hedges. Were still young. Watertown was expecting to be young at quarterback following the graduation of longtime starter Ty Jobe, who signed with Tennessee Tech. Seth Price had looked very promising in a backup role as a freshman last fall. But playing three sports at a high level [he also stars on the Tiger basketball and baseball teams] may have been too much as he gave up football before spring practice to focus on the other two.But classmate Brady Swann, who played
receiver and defensive end as a freshman, ap-pears to be picking up where Price left off, at least based on early preseason workouts.Hes come a long way, Webster said of the
6-foot-1, 175-pound Swann. Bradys a good
athlete. He played last year a little on defense and some receiver. Hes really come a long way for us.Ive been really pleased with his effort and
what hes been able to accomplish so far. Junior Luke Turner [6-2, 245] leads Water-towns two-back set. Hell be joined by senior Austin Brown [5-9, 165], who was injured in last seasons opener and didnt return until late in the year, and Vonte Bates [5-9, 165], part of a strong class of sophomores in a back-field rotation.Im expecting Brown and Turner and Bates
to carry this team, Webster said. Were try-ing to spread the wealth back there. Brown and Bates play a lot of defense, so were trying
to keep them as fresh as we can.Running back by committee.Fullbacks and tight ends tend to be similar
in size and skills, thus its not unusual for play-ers to switch from one of those positions to the other. At Watertown, senior Cameron Jen-nings [5-10, 250] will line up at both as well as at its hybrid, H-back.Outside receivers will include senior Bran-
don George [5-10, 185], sophomore Devin High [5-10, 170], junior Skylar Scales [5-10, 175], senior Kendall Newcome [5-11, 175], ju-nior Zac Grisham [6-0, 180] and senior Tucker Vaught [6-0, 180]. Up front, Watertown has veteran guards in
senior Jake French [5-10, 190], who started at
tackle last year, on the left side and junior Mi-chael Sexton [5-10, 215] on the right. Sopho-more left tackle Rusty Staats [6-3, 235] saw some playing time as a freshman.Joining them will be sophomore center
Bryson Watts [5-9, 205] and classmate Jona-than Bentley [5-10, 255] at right tackle.Jennings will handle the kicking duties while
Brown, whose absence was noticeably felt on special teams, will be back at punter.On defense, senior Robert Caruthers [6-2,
275] will return at an end with Sexton lining up on the other side and sophomore Jesse Cooper [5-10, 265] in between at nosetackle.Grisham, Brown and Newcome will rotate at
two outside linebacker spots, which are really standup defensive ends. Jennings, Turner and junior Bosco Allocco [5-10, 185] will return to the three inside linebacker spots.Scales and High, who saw a lot of action
here last year, will be the cornerbacks and Swann, who also played a lot in the second-ary, will be the free safety. All are sophomores.Weve got a little speed, Webster said.
May not be the fastest team weve had, but its deceiving speed.Theyre hard workers, good attitudes.
Theyre buying into the team concept. They know it takes more than one person to win a football game. They dont care who gets the glory as long as we get the W.
Watertown Purple TigersDistrict-Class: 8-AHead Coach: Gavin Webster2013 Record: 2-8 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22 at Cascade 7 p.m.Aug. 29 Eagleville 7 p.m.Sept 5 *Trousdale Couny 7 p.m.Sept. 12 at Oneida 6:30 p.m.Sept. 19 *at Red Boiling Springs 7 p.m.Sept. 26 Cannon County 7 p.m.Oct. 3 *at Gordonsville 7 p.m.Oct. 10 at Jo Byrns 7 p.m.Oct. 24 *Goodpasture 7 p.m.Oct. 30 Jackson County 7 p.m.*District 8-A game
Young, but experienced Tigers enter new era on new campus
Jims Antiques312 Public SquareWatertown, TN
237-1777Open 8 days
a week!
Good Luck on your season!
Hunter Funeral Home
Mike & Kathy Hunter, Owners
Proudly serving Watertown and the surrounding communities since 1965.
Proudly supports Watertown Highschool
208 W. Main St.Watertown, TN
237-9318www.hunterfuneral.com
Ellis Construction
James Ellis(615) 618-3874Licensed and Insured
We handle all your construction needs.
No JobToo LargeOr Small!
Go Team!Auto Home Life
Wes DuganAgency Manager
Castle Heights214 North Castle Heights Ave. Ste. A Lebanon
453-9702
www.bandjspecialtees.com 615-237-4550
215 E. Main St. Watertown, TN
Good Luck on your upcoming season!
Small family owned business, but competitive with large company pricing.
Conferences Businesses ReunionsSchool Churches Fundraiser
Custom Decorated Apparel Promotional Products Screen Printing
Sophomore Brady Swann [4] has taken over quarterbacking duties for Watertown and 10th-year coach Gavin Webster [middle].Photo: Andy Reed The Lebanon Democrat
-
GRIDIRON GUIDE 2013 n Page 11
By Andy Reed
Football has become more and more a game of speed through the years. But its al-ways been a game of size.And Wilson County has plenty of size as
Brad Dedman begins his fifth season, which will surpass his predecessor, Traye Aric, as the longest-tenured Wildcat head coach as the school begins its 14th year of operation. Incidentally, following a stint at Portland, Aric is back on the WCHS staff as offensive line coach.Were probably bigger than weve been
since Ive been the head coach, said Ded-man, whose Wildcats are coming off a 6-5 season in 2013. Weve got to take advantage of our size and mobility.As with most teams, the size is centered
around the front line where junior Brandon Bennett [6-foot-3, 260 pounds] returns at left tackle. Alex Comer [6-2, 250], a starter at center last year as a sophomore, will slide over to right guard when he returns from a knee injury, which is projected to be in time for Week 0 against Hendersonville.
Junior Adam Smiley [5-11, 230] will replace Comer at center. Junior Cody MacLennon [5-11, 210] will be the left guard and senior Bryson Kelley [6-3, 260] the right tackle. Se-nior Zack Dover [6-3, 230] returns size to tight end.Its probably the biggest line weve had
around Wilson Central in a long time, Ded-man said. Coming out of spring, we thought we could have a lot of potential there.The size will transfer to the defensive front
as well where Dover and Kelley will be the ends. Senior Dillon Smith [6-0, 260] will be a three-year starter at tackle where he will line up next to classmate Evan Juhnke [6-3, 270], who endured a knee injury last year.There will be some retooling with the of-
fensive skill players. Quarterback Jordan Roundtree has graduated and wide receiver Gabe Angel, a highly-recruited junior, has transferred to Cookeville.Senior Cody Ray [5-10, 170] will be the new
quarterback. Senior DSean Osborne [5-10, 180] returns at fullback and will be backed up by junior Jordan Wilson [6-0, 180]. Seniors Dakivian Moore [6-0, 185], Justin Lee [6-0,
185], Hunter Wilson [5-10, 170] and Weston Rountree [6-2, 215] will al-ternate at two wingback spots.On the outside, seniors Blake Lea
[6-0, 175] and Anthony Dobson [6-1, 190] return to wide receiver where they will be joined by sophomore Spencer Welch [6-0, 165] and senior Peyton Muncy [6-0, 170].Weve got some speed, Dedman
said of the skill players. Weve got to find ways to get guys the ball in space and let them do what they do.Back on defense, two starters re-
turn at linebacker Rountree on the weak side and Hunter Wilson on the outside. Senior Alan Lewis [6-0, 220] will join them on the inside.In the secondary, Osborne is back
as the weak safety and senior L.J. Lytle [6-2, 170] at a corner. They will be joined by Dobson at free safety and either Lea or senior Louie Martin [6-1, 180] at the other corner.Defensively, were bigger inside, Dedman
said. We got to maintain blocks so lineback-
ers can make plays.On special teams, Central has enjoyed the
talents of Jackson Reddick and Brad Cavana-ugh in recent years. Now sophomores Adam Williams and James Graham are looking to extend the tradition. Ray saw some punting action last year..
Wilson Central WildcatsDistrict-Class: 9-AAAHead Coach: Brad Dedman2013 Record: 6-5 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 22 *Henderson 7 p.m.Aug. 29 LaVergne 7 p.m.Sept. 5 *Portland 7 p.m.Sept. 12 Cleveland 7 p.m.Sept. 19 *Mt. Juliet 7 p.m.Sept. 26 at Dickson County 7 p.m.Oct. 3 *at Station Camp 7 p.m.Oct. 10 *at Beech 7 p.m.Oct. 24 *at Lebanon 7 p.m.Oct. 31 *at Gallatin 7 p.m.*District 9-AAA game
Wildcats bring size to 2014 table
Go Team!Auto Home Life
Wes DuganAgency Manager
Castle Heights214 North Castle Heights Ave. Ste. A Lebanon
453-9702
www.ligonbobo.com
Have A Great Season!
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
P097314.1
When I say good, you say neighbor.
Now that's teamwork.Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
P097314.1 State Farm Home Office, Bloomington, IL
When I say good, you say neighbor.
Now that's teamwork.Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
Jeff Gannon, Agent401 S Mt Juliet RdMt Juliet, TN 37122Bus: 615-773-9000jeff.gannon.pwmx@statefarm.com
Now thats teamwork.
CALL FOR A QUOTE 24/7
Senior running back DSean Osborne will be a featured ball carrier. Photo: Bobby Reynolds The Lebanon Democrat
Wilson Central assistant coach Jonathon Forrest watches junior linemen Brandon Bennett and Josh Cradle go one on one. Photo: Bobby Reynolds The Lebanon Democrat
-
Page 12 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
By Patrick BrownChattanooga Times Free Press
As Tennessees menacing middle lineback-er, A.J. Johnson already generates a fairly imposing shadow.The seniors silhouette has been a little bit
bigger this month, though.Johnson is the lone proven veteran among
the Volunteers young linebackers, and the likes of freshman Dillon Bates, Elliott Berry and Gavin Bryant have made sure theyre never too far from one of Tennessees undis-puted team leaders.And thats just fine with the 6-foot-2,
245-pound two-time All-SEC selection.Im a senior, and Im a leader of the team,
Johnson said last week. Thats what theyre supposed to do. Theyre supposed to look up to me and see how it goes.If Im on the sideline, Im going to be
jumping up and down, making sure were staying hyped. If somebodys not jumping up and down, they can look at me and say, Oh, hes jumping up and down and staying hyped, I think I need to be doing that. Thats the role that a leader should do.Second-year Tennessee coach Butch Jones
said earlier in the Vols training camp that Bates is always finding Johnson in team meetings or during practice, and Johnson said hes had Bryant for a roommate during camp.Hes always energetic, hes always on
the field, and hes always involved in some-thing, Bates said. Whenever a big play hap-pens, he runs after the person and congratu-lates them. He keeps them accountable.In the meeting room, hell turn around
and talk to you about what you messed up on and really talk to you and look after you and what youre doing. Hes a big help, and hes really a great asset to this team.The Vols need Johnson to be more disrup-
tive on the field this season and help fill a leadership void both on and off it, and its probably helped Johnson that hes had a few younger linebackers, sophomores Jalen Reeves-Maybin and Kenny Bynum included, in practices and meetings with him.Im just trying to show them the way,
Johnson said. By me going my hardest, they can see how its done, and they can learn the plays. Gavin comes up to me and asks me questions about a play. Just yester-day, he was coming up to me and asking me about six or seven plays. Im able to talk to
him and let him know, You should do this, or, You shouldnt do that.With so much youth at linebacker, Ten-
nessee has picked its spots with Johnson throughout preseason practice. He was ba-sically held out of the Vols first preseason scrimmage and, after participating in most of the second scrimmage, got an early night off
in Saturday nights open scrimmage.Theres a lot of young guys who (have
never) played college football, Johnson said, and theyre going to need the most reps they can get in the scrimmages and out here in practice. They need the most reps they can get so they can get prepared to play in a game.
The move also makes Johnson lead from afar, and Jones, who likes to say he wants to see player-led teams, noted after one practice this month how pleased he was that Johnson rallied Tennessees defense midway through the practice.Johnson started as a freshman, so he can
relate to Bates and Berry, two freshmen who figure to play prominent early roles for Ten-nessees defense, and its clear from talking to the Vols other linebackers how much re-spect they have for him.I know I can look to A.J. when I need to be
in line, Reeves-Maybin said. Its kind of a veteran feel, but I feel like a young guy when Im talking to A.J.Knowing hes right there beside me just
makes me elevate my game to a whole new level, because I know when Im beside him, I cant let him down because hes not going to let me down.
TENNEssEE TiDBiTsAfter canceling Sunday afternoons previ-
ously scheduled practice, the Vols will re-turn to Haslam Field today before breaking Tuesday and Wednesday, when fall semester classes start. ... Jones said following Saturday nights open practice the Vols would know more about defensive tackle Trevarris Sauls-berrys left leg injury on Sunday, and a full update is expected after todays practice. ... Receivers Vic Wharton and Johnathon John-son missed the practice, and Johnson wore a boot on his left foot. ... As expected, De-fensive end Curt Maggitt (ankle) also didnt participate on Saturday night, and offensive tackle Dontavius Blair missed most of it after being shaken up early in practice.
Tennessee VolunteersConference: SECHead Coach: Butch Jones2013 Record: 5-7 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 31 vs. Utah State 6 p.m.Sept. 6 vs. Arkansas State 11 a.m. Sept. 13 at Oklahoma 7 p.m. Sept. 27 at Georgia TBD Oct. 4 vs. Florida TBD Oct. 11 vs. Chattanooga TBD Oct. 18 at Ole Miss TBD Oct. 25 vs. Alabama TBD Nov. 1 at South Carolina TBD Nov. 15 vs. Kentucky TBD
Johnson comfortable showing the way to Vols young linebackers
staff Reports
NASHVILLE Vander-bilt returning starters Joe Townsend (senior, cen-ter), Kyle Woestmann (senior, outside linebacker) and An-drew East (senior, snapper) were elected co-captains for the upcoming season. Head coach Derek Mason an-nounced the teams three new captains Monday. The staff will announce a fourth Commodore to join East, Townsend and Woestmann prior to each game of the 2014 season. East, a native of Indianapolis, will serve as special teams captain for the second con-secutive season. This marks the first year that either Townsend, from Hender-sonville, or Woestmann, of Marietta, Ga., have served as a Commodore captain. Mason said East, Townsend and Woestmann were elected in a recent ballot by Vanderbilt teammates. Im pleased for all three of these players. These men stepped forward as team leaders during the summer workouts and in (preseason) camp, the head coach said. East is a three-year starter for the Commodores, and re-garded as one of the nations most versatile snappers. He has handled virtually every snap on conversion and punt units since arriving on campus. East also stands out off the field. He graduated with a
Vanderbilt CommodoresConference: SECHead Coach: Derek Mason2013 Record: 9-4 2014 SCHEDULEAug. 28 vs. Temple 8:15 p.m.Sept. 6 vs. Ole Miss 3:30 p.m. Sept. 13 vs. Massachusetts 11:00 a.m. Sept. 20 vs. South Carolina TBD Sept. 27 at Kentucky TBD Oct. 4 at Georgia TBD Oct. 11 vs. Charleston Southern TBDOct. 25 at Missouri TBD Nov. 1 vs. Old Dominion TBD Nov. 8 vs. Florida TBD
The Vanderbilt Commodores names its co-captains
N.C. State quarterback Mike Glennon (8) looks to pass as Tennessees A.J. Johnson pressures him during the first half in the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game in 2012 at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. Tennessee won 35-21. Photo: Ethan Hyman Raleigh News & Observer MCT
Vanderbilt defensive end Kyle Woestmann (92) hits N.C. State quarterback Mike Glennon (8), causing him to fumble during the second half of N.C. States 38-24 loss to Vander-bilt in the Franklin American Mortgage Music City Bowl at LP Field in Nashville in 2012. Photo: Ethan Hyman Raleigh News & Observer MCT
civil engineering degree last May and is cur-rently enrolled in postgraduate studies at Van-derbilts Owen School of Management. He is one of the teams most active participants in community service efforts around Nashville. Townsend has 22 total starts, most among ac-tive Commodores, entering his final season. All of his starts have come at the center position. This summer, Townsend was named as a pre-season candidate for the Rimington Trophy, given each year to the nations top center. Woestmann, who started every game last year at defensive end, is expected to start at outside linebacker in Masons new 3-4 defensive scheme. Woestmann ranks as the Commodores active leader with 12 quarterback sacks and 15 tackles for loss. He also ranks second on the team in ca-reer tackles.
-
Page 13 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
Sharing Knowledge, Entertainment,and Enjoyment
Subscription to:
The Lebanon Democrat or Mt. Juliet Newsor Hartsville Vidette
The Lebanon Democrat for $6.75 per monthor Mt. Juliet News for $1.50 per month
or Hartsville Vidette for $2.75 per monththrough EZPay and get 4 weeks of your subscription
for FREE (in county rates)Call or check this box and mail in with your payment informationto make an easy no hassle monthly deduction from your card.
r Debit card r VISA r Mastercard Exp. date _____/_____/_____
____________ ____________ ____________ ____________ c v v _______
Signature: ______________________________________________________
To GET 4 WEEKS FREE and a $10 Walmart Gift Card*just sign up for to receive:
Name _________________________________________________________________
Address _______________________________________________________________
City ________________________________________ State_____ Zip_____________
Phone: ______________________________________ Start Date: _____/_____/_____
$10
Sign up or convert to
To order, just call us (615)444-3952 AND MENTION THIS AD,or return this form by mail or to our office with payment
or payment information to ATTN: Circulation DeptThe Lebanon Democrat, 402 N. Cumberland St., Lebanon, TN 37087or you can email your information to krollins@lebanondemocrat.com
and receive a $10 Walmart gift cardplus ONE MONTH FREE
Offer Expires August 29, 2014
* Offer Expires August 29, 2014
-
Page 14 n GRIDIRON GUIDE 2014
IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911.
When you or someone you love needs emergency care, make sure you land in the right place. University Medical Center
provides quality emergency care whenever you need it. Were here for you, and your superhero, 24/7.
For more information, visit UniversityMedicalCenter.com or call 615-444-8262.
OOPS!IF YOUR SUPERHERO TRIES TO FLY, WERE HERE.
UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER IS DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY OWNED BY A PARTNERSHIP THAT PROUDLY INCLUDES PHYSICIAN OWNERS, INCLUDING CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE HOSPITALS MEDICAL STAFF.
THE E.R. AT 1411 Baddour Parkway Lebanon
77109_UMC_Oops_11_5x10_5c.indd 1 8/4/14 11:31 AM
top related