27 Aug 2011 Bigelow: Expectations high after successful year

The Panthers are still riding a high from last year’s 5-2A championship run. Bigelow sailed through conference play undefeated and picked up a win in the playoffs.

“We had a very successful season,” coach Jeff Starks said. “Our kids achieved their goal of winning conference and made a big run in the playoffs. Overall, all I can say is that it was just a very successful year.”

And with 12 starters returning, the Panthers are poised for another successful run. Starks is looking to a group of talented players at skill positions to lead the way in the Wing T: senior receiver Marcus Davie (5-11, 160), junior tailback Terrell Dunlap (5-9, 135) and junior quarterback Austin Turner (5-10, 165).

Defensively, the Panthers’ success all starts up front with senior defensive ends Garrett Gregg (6-0, 230) and Luke Starks (6-5, 210) and junior Tim Gunn (5-9, 150) and senior Brett Story (6-0, 190) at linebacker.

“I anticipate that the whole conference is going to be a lot better this year,” Starks said. “I think Magnet Cove will be right up there at the top. Quitman will push everybody. Two Rivers will cause a scramble. But I think if we stay healthy, we have the chance to win it again.

“Our main strength is our offensive and defensive linemen. Our weakness is that we have unproven guys in the secondary on the defensive side of the ball.”