Can they stay perfect?
Lions ready to repeat behind strength of lines
The Mount Ida Lions ended the 2007 season as the 2A state champions and the only team in the state of Arkansas to remain undefeated at 15-0.
Trying to make a repeat of that performance will not be easy considering that some of those most responsible for the success have since graduated, leaving head coach Mike White with some holes to fill on offense.
The Lions will look to senior Chad Wilson to line up under center and direct the offense even though he has never played the position prior to this year.
“He has a good feel for the game,” White said. “He’s a good run threat.”
Starting wide receiver Josh Depriest, who is also a threat to run with the ball, will back Wilson up at quarterback.
One of the biggest holes to fill on the team will be at running back, but White believes he has the athletes to give his team an advantage this year.
Senior Jackson Guerra, a strong, quick runner, will likely be the starter, with senior Justin Baker backing him up.
At wide receiver, in addition to Depriest, White and the Lions will once again look to all-state senior Troy Thew. The 6-1 receiver racked up more than 1,100 yards last season, and his 4.5 speed in the 40-yard dash makes him a threat anywhere on the field. Junior Devin Weston will also look to play a part in the Mount Ida passing game.
The strongest part of this year’s team could be the offensive line. With size and mobility, the veteran line will look to open up holes in defenses all season long. Led by senior left tackle Tyler Gossett (6-5, 340), the line also includes junior Garrett Mullenix (6-2, 265), senior James Davis (6-1, 235), senior Brandon Abernathy (6-1, 230) and Steven McKay (6-0, 195).
“Our line is our big asset,” White said. “They’re as good as anyone around. You can’t get far without an offensive line.”
Many of the “monsters” on the offensive line will see time on the defensive side as well, White said. Gosset and Davis will rotate with Abernathy at the defensive tackle positions, while Cole, Lance Briar and Mullenix will share time at defensive end.
Juniors Isaac Summit and Baker will play linebacker, along with Guerra. Two sophomores, Ty Dupre and Zach Hall, could also see some playing time this season.
Defensively, the secondary is the most experienced area for the Lions, with Depriest and Thew at cornerback and Wilson at safety.
This article was published Sunday, August 24, 2008.