SIGNAL MOUNTAIN EAGLES
Head coach: Josh Roberts (14-19 in three seasons here and overall)
Returning starters: 6 offensive; 5 defensive
Key players: RB/LB Braden Casner (5-11, 175); TE/DL Brady Schwarz (6-2, 220); RB/LB Logan Farr (6-0, 165); OL/DL Nate Menzel (6-3, 215); RB/LB Andrew Eichner (5-11, 180); OL/DL Aiden Adkins (6-1, 200); QB/DB Duncan Cannon (6-3, 185); WR/DB Caldwell Payne (6-1, 175); OL/DL Pearson Lindsay (5-11, 185); OL/DL Luke Bergren (6-3, 235).
Team strengths: The Eagles were very responsive when adversity hit last season as they had a 4-2 record in games played after losses. The team returns great experience on the offensive line.
Team concerns: Replacing two-way standouts Rod Hutcherson and Terrance Russell along with all-region linebacker Campbell Garner will be tough. A youthful bunch with a lot of new faces on both sides of the ball will have to mature and embrace their roles quickly.
Breakout player: Casner has added strength to go with his good vision and speed out of the backfield. His experience is a plus, along with his nose for the end zone. A big season could be ahead for the senior on both sides of the ball.
Season outlook: Players have packed on muscle this season after devoting a great amount of time to the weight room. The added strength should help them finish games after losing three times by a combined total of 10 points in 2019.
Leadership is strong for the Eagles, who also expect a handful of freshmen and sophomores to make an impact. Casner, Eichner and Menzel have tremendous experience and can raise the bar for their teammates.
Despite losing their top receiving threats and starting quarterback from last year, coaches believe Cannon is a solid fit to lead the offense. He has a strong arm and can also be a threat with his legs.
"Our guys have a great team-first attitude," Coach Roberts said. "They know how to respond positively to adversity and are tough. They have worked really hard and are excited to get to play together again."
Staff photo by Robin Rudd / Signal Mountain's Logan Farr pulls in a long pass against Howard during the Times Free Press Best of Preps jamboree on Aug. 17, 2019, at Finley Stadium.