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HOWARD HUSTLIN’ TIGERS
Head coach: Dedric Maffett (first season as head coach)
Returning starters: 6 offensive; 4 defensive
Last year’s record: 6-5, COVID-19 forfeit in 4A first round
Key players: Wesley Barnes (6-2, 370) Sr. OL, Myles Houston (6-2, 315) Jr. OL, Roy Miles (6-0, 250) Jr. OL, London Cross (6-1, 215) Sr. RB/LB, Daveon Dupree (6-4, 240) Jr. TE/LB, De’Oriean Elder (5-8, 150) Sr. RB/DB, Jermichael Young (5-9, 224) Sr. OL/DL
Season outlook: The Hustlin’ Tigers were on a roll late last season, winning four in a row before COVID-19 interfered and cost them their final two games.
There aren’t many teams around the area with the size that Howard has up front. If Maffett’s group can execute its blocking schemes and maximize its power, there is a good chance the offense could find a solid rhythm – and when the Hustlin’ Tigers are on defense, their line will be tough to move.
Elder, also of note as an outfielder for the school’s baseball team, brings dynamic speed and has excellent vision that will create exciting highlights out of the backfield and the secondary. Cross is a four-year starter who was a Best of Preps selection last season, when he led a Hustlin’ Tigers defense that allowed only 38 points during the four-game winning streak. He also is a bruiser out of the backfield and should find the end zone quite often.
Making a leap up to Region 4-5A will be a challenge with new league foes being McMinn County, Ooltewah, Rhea County and Walker Valley. The competition for the top spot is expected to be a dogfight.
“Our team strength is certainly the leadership from our offensive line,” Maffett said. “If we can stay healthy throughout the season and play Hustlin’ Tiger football for 48 minutes every week, we should be in good hands.”
Staff photo by Matt Hamilton / Howard senior London Cross is expected to be a key playmaker on both sides of the ball for the Hustlin’ Tigers this year.