The Trojans will enter 2014 big, fast, and talented, but not deep at key positions. If they can stay healthy, they’re in position for a deep run in the playoffs.
Coach James Ray
Who’s Back
Offensive starters: 7
Defensive starters: 6
Team Strength
Experience and speed. Everybody we put on the field has played at least one year and we’re extremely fast. We have an athlete at every position.
Biggest Concern
Staying healthy. Last year I thought we peaked and then injuries took a toll on us. We still don’t have 35 guys we can put on the field every Friday night, so some key injuries here or there could really spoil the season.
Offensive Leaders
Dandy Dozen selection and Ole Miss commit Jay Johnson has received most of the attention over the summer, but the Trojan ground game should be stronger with Jamar Brown, Zach Cruthirds and D.J. Glaspie all sharing the ball. Wesley Ross, a transfer from South Pontotoc, will take over at QB. Ross passed for 857 yards, 10 touchdowns and nine interceptions last year at South as a sophomore.
Defensive Leaders
Ray believes the Trojan defense will be bigger and faster than it’s been in years. Josh Byrd, back from injury, and Bailey Nix look strong at DE. Jay Johnson can help all over. Jamar Brown looks good at LB. Zach Cruthirds is back off his injury to bolster LB corps. Jatravis Freelon at nose will be big up front. Tyrique Armstrong is also back in the secondary after being gone last year.
Key to Success
Have to be ready to play every game. Schedule is really tough. If we’re not mentally ready to play every Friday we could lose every game.
Schedule
Aug. 23 at No. Pontotoc
Aug. 29 Potts Camp
Sept. 5 at Coffeeville
Sept. 12 at Water Valley
Sept. 19 West Bolivar
Sept. 26 Amory
Oct. 3 at Calhoun City
Oct. 10 Eupora
Oct. 17 East Webster
Oct. 24 at Okolona
Oct. 31 Open