[laker20]

Russell Co. is the same team from last year except for one major improvement, competent fullback play. That was the only glaring offensive problem from last years team and it appears Mason Short will be able to take some pressure off of Nick as a lead blocker and taking the hits on 3rd and short carries.

Whitley will keep it close but Russell will pull away late.

45 - 26

All last season I sat back in my arm chair asking why we didn't put Mason in at full back. Perhaps he wasn't ready yet, but this kid is one of the hardest hitters pound for pound in hs football. Just having him in the backfield creates the opportunity for mis-direction, multiple play action, etc. It keeps the defense on it's heels.....and that makes it extremely hard to stop #28.

Then you factor Mann's ability to run/scramble, Ellis' ability to take the ball up field with the vision of a quality RB, and Fletcher as another potential RB, and the options for RC are limitless this year. I expect the staff to have some interesting offensive lineups as the year progress.......multiple back sets, empty backfields, wildcat package, etc. The key is still the passing game. We have to get consistent yardage in the air, and Ellis needs at least 7-8 touches per game, maybe more.