THREE RIVERS AREA — The McCrory football program enjoyed a complete turnaround last season under first-year coach Gary Moody. After winning just one game in 2007, the Jaguars went 7-4 last season and earned their first playoff berth in 11 seasons.
The Jaguars are in position for continued improvement this season with
14 seniors and 16 returning starters. All of the statistical leaders return from an offense
that averaged more than 30 points a game.
Paul Keen (6-2, 175) is back to direct the offense after accounting for more than
1,200 yards of total offense and 17 touchdowns in 2008.
The senior, who is playing only his second year of football,
gives the Jaguars a threat to pass or run.
The running game will feature senior tailback Boyd Williams (5-9, 165). The speedster rushed for more than 1,300 yards and 20 scores last season.
"He runs about a 4.6 40," Moody said of Williams. "He's a tough kid, too. We're counting on him to have a big year." The receiving corps will be a strength for McCrory this season, Moody said. The leader of that group last season, Jadrien Holiday (6-0, 200), is back after catching 30 passes for more than 500 yards and six touchdowns. Jordan Cain is the big playmaker who averaged more than 20 yards per catch. Chris Smith is a dual threat who caught 20 passes and rushed for more than 300 yards.
Moody said the team will incorporate the tight end into the offense in '09. Adam Kelly (6-3, 240) and Houston Broughton (6-4, 225) are the two big bodies to fill the position.
The offensive line returns two starters in Hunter Adams (6-3, 320) and Josh McDonald (5-10, 215), a three-year starter at center. Sophomores Jamar Clark (6-6, 280) and Denzel Dinnwiddie (6-0, 265) move up and will be expected to contribute right away.
- For more Jaguars coverage, see www.ARpreps.com.
MCCRORY JAGUARS
Sept. 4 ..................... Hughes
Sept. 11 ..... at Cross County*
Sept. 18 .............. at Manila*
Sept. 25 ........ Walnut Ridge*
Oct. 2 ......... at Marked Tree*
Oct. 9 .............Cedar Ridge*
Oct. 16 ..............at Augusta*
Oct. 23 East Poinsett County*
Oct. 30 ................ at Rector*
Nov. 5 ..................... Salem*
Special, Pages 193 on 08/23/2009