THREE RIVERS AREA — Attempting to move to a Spread offense, the Highland Rebels struggled in their 2008 season, going 0-10. This season, however, head coach Clay Wiggins said his squad would return to primarily running the ball.
The Rebels return a three-year starter, Blake Martin (6-2, 205), and two two-year starters, Michael Tarver (6-1, 205) and Scott Gatewood (5-10, 205), in the backfield.
Given the size of Highland's tailbacks, "we're going to see if we can just run those guys at people," Wiggins said.
While Highland's strength lies in its running backs, Wiggins admits that the team's biggest weakness is its speed.
The offensive line will return starter Coty Woodson (6-1, 255) and Colt Johnson (6-1, 300) at guard and Lucas Gibson (5-11, 230) at center.
"Those three guys will be up there, and we are going to try and move the defensive line a
little bit," Wiggins said.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Rebels return three starters and will change its look
from last season.
The line will be anchored by Woodson, who Wiggins said was the best offensive and defensive
lineman in 2008. At defensive end, the Rebels will start sophomores Jalen Belleton (6-2, 180) and
Vennie Roberto (5-10, 175). Codie LaCount (6-4, 208) will also rotate in as defensive end.
And making a move from his secondary post last season is Brandon Sharp, who will line up
at the cornerback spot.
HIGHLAND REBELSSept. 4 .........Mountain Home Sept. 11 at Green County Tech Sept. 18 ..................at Hoxie Sept. 25 ............... Newport* Oct. 2 ............... at Trumann* Oct. 9 .. Jonesboro Westside* Oct. 16 .........at Valley View* Oct. 23 .............Pocahontas* Oct. 30 ............. at Osceola* Nov. 5 ................... Gosnell*
Special, Pages 184 on 08/23/2009