Jim Cardwell enters his fourth year as a starter for the Bucs, who once again have state-title aspirations.Boyd-Buchanan Buccaneers
Coach: Grant Reynolds (63-27 in his ninth year here and overall)
Last year: 12-2, lost 27-6 to Friendship Christian in a state semifinal
’13 dreams: Reynolds said the Bucs have some talented players this year, but many of them are young. For instance, eight new starters will appear on defense. Skill positions are a team strength. Team speed is more than adequate. “Hopefully by the end we’re playing our best,” Reynolds said. “We’re not ever going to compromise our goals of winning a district championship and winning a state championship. That’s what we’re striving for.” Jim Cardwell (5-foot-9, 180) contributes at safety and as a kickoff and punt returner, but his primary duty is quarterback, where he’ll be starting for a fourth year. Junior Austin Jackson (6-0, 210) is expected to play key roles at both running back and linebacker. Guard and defensive tackle Eli Legg (6-0, 225) got valuable playing time last season as a freshman.
Number of interest: It was 2008 the last time the Buccaneers lost to a league opponent, 13 games ago.