Kaidence Thomas (8) plays defense for Bledsoe County. Marion County High School hosted the Sequatchie Valley Football Jamboree that featured eight area teams on August 10, 2018. Head coach: Dewayne Tabor (first year here; eighth overall)
Returning starters: 6 offensive; 6 defensive
Key players: OL-LB Gabe McCloud (5-11, 210); TE-FS Kaidence Thomas (5-9, 130); HB-SS Colby Rogers (6-2, 200); OL-DL Zach Davis (5-11, 226); RB-DB River Swafford (5-9, 150); WR-DB Tyrell Richardson (6-0, 165); OL-DL Elijah Reel (6-0, 240); OL-DL Wyatt Tracht (6-0, 230); WR Cam Smith (5-11, 160)
Team strengths: In year one of a new regime, players are responding to new challenges asked of them. After spending over a decade helping lead a Georgia Class AAA powerhouse at Emanuel County and winning two state championships, Tabor has been impressed with the work ethic and the chemistry shown by the Warriors this offseason.
Team concerns: Bledsoe County will run multiple offenses and defenses. Being in the right position and learning the ins and outs of new schemes are important for a group that seeks the program's first winning season since winning 10 games in 2011.
Breakout candidate: Sophomore quarterback Harmon Keith has shown promise with a good arm and quick feet to scramble out of the pocket, according to Tabor. Getting in a groove early would help him toward becoming a three-year fixture in the offense.
Season outlook: Despite just a three-win season last year, the Warriors laid plenty of building blocks. The defense returns more than half its starters and held five teams to less than 18 points, which included a home shutout of a quality Polk County program.
If this group can find consistency and execute under its new offensive-minded coach, an above .500 season is possible. The Warriors dropped close battles by five, two and one point last season.
"We want to continue to improve daily," Tabor said. "I am excited to experience Friday night football under the bright lights in the Valley."
The season opener at home against Whitwell will provide a great test for Bledsoe to build off of.