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SODDY-DAISY TROJANS
Head coach: Justin Barnes (38-48 here and overall)
Returning starters: 6 offensive; 4 defensive
Last year’s record: 3-8, lost in 5A first round
Key players: Tanner Whittenbarger (5-9, 180) So. RB, Kayden Phillips (5-8, 180) Sr. DB, Dakota Clayton (6-0, 215) Jr. DL, Regan Taylor (6-0, 215) Sr. OL, Coy Porter (6-2, 290) Sr. OL, Jameson Koch (6-3, 235) Jr. OL, Jordan Conley (5-10, 210) Sr. WR/DL, Slater Hickman (6-2, 200) Jr. QB/DB, Eli Coffelt (5-11, 160) Sr. WR
Season outlook: The Trojans are excited to see the progress for Whittenbarger, who generated 740 yards of offense last season as a freshman, and the versatile back appears to have just what he needs in front of him as four key starters return on the offensive line.
Taylor is a force at the blindside and will provide ample time for new starting quarterback Hickman to make plays and target a group of receivers who have shown flashes of potential during offseason work. The Trojans hope the passing game can remain consistent as they adjust to the graduation of former quarterback and region offensive MVP Isaac Barnes.
The defense will be led by Clayton, who is a force to reckon with. He had 70 tackles (19 for loss) and seven sacks last season as he did not let much get past him – he clamps down on the edge, makes excellent reads and is a big hitter, along with Phillips, who returns at safety. In between them will be four new starting linebackers who must make the most of early game experience.
Soddy-Daisy has moved into Region 3-4A, which includes powers such as Red Bank and East Hamilton as well as area programs Central, East Ridge, Hixson and Sequoyah.
“Although we will be inexperienced in some spots, we have enough guys returning that we should compete for the region championship,” Barnes said. “All five of our offensive linemen started last year, and we are returning a dynamic running back and receivers who really impressed this spring and summer. Our defensive line looks to be an anchor for the defense while we gain experience in other areas.”