WHITWELL TIGERS
Head coach: Randall Boldin (11-2 in one year here and overall)
Returning starters: 6 offensive, 7 defensive
Key players: QB/OLB Warner Ashworth (6-0, 190), ATH Hudson Petty (6-2,190), TE/LB Thundur Roberts (6-1, 190), RB/LB Josh Wingo (6-2, 205), OL/DL Aaron Worley (6-0, 260).
Team strengths: Petty and Wingo combine for arguably the best backfield in Class 1A. There is no shortage of talent or experience at the skill positions, and the Tigers gained plenty of confidence from the way they handled most of last season's schedule - winning 11 games by an average of 42 points.
Team concerns: Despite having plenty of offensive weapons, Whitwell is short on depth behind the starters. Said Boldin: "We're top-heavy in the backfield, so staying healthy will be a really big key for us."
Newcomer to watch: Junior Evan Lawson (6-1, 290) transferred in last year after the Christmas break, and after an impressive offseason, he is expected to help solidify the offensive line by taking over at center.
Season outlook: After several years of inconsistency, the Tigers put together the best season the program has experienced in more than two decades in Boldin's first year. The offense averaged 41 points, and the defense prevented six opponents from scoring a touchdown in 2017.
Whitwell had county rival South Pittsburg on the ropes in the regular season, which could have led to a region title and the right to host their state quarterfinal rematch. With most starters back, including the entire offensive backfield as well as Roberts, who ranked among the area's tackles leaders, Whitwell now looks to take the next step.
"We went 11-2, but our guys realize that wasn't good enough," Boldin said. "After winning so many games by wide margins, the experience and leadership coming back is a big reason to be optimistic. Even last year's reserves saw plenty of action, and that should pay off this year."
Petty is an all-state defensive back who also led the team with more than 1,600 total yards on offense last year. Wingo, last year's region player of the year, ran for more than 700 yards and was in on more than 50 tackles. Along with Roberts, the quarterback of the defense, they form a trio of seniors who have helped change expectations for the program.
"We've seen a different mindset on this team," Boldin added. "Our kids will read the hype, because we know it's out there, but we try to keep them grounded as best we can. Having 14 seniors who are good leaders will help with that. They know if you go through the process, the wins will take care of themselves."