27 Aug 2011 Cutter Morning Star: Eagles improving in 5-3A

Posted at 7:33 PMh in 501 Football Team by

The transition to class 3A was not easy for Cutter Morning Star. After reaching the playoffs for the first time in nine years in 2009, the Eagles (2-8) battled low numbers, inexperience and injuries in 2010, finishing winless in 5-3A conference play.

First-year coach T.C. Shamel takes over the team and looks to improve morale this fall. The team will play 3A ball this season before returning to class 2A next season.

The Eagles are plagued by low numbers once again but will try to fill gaps with a younger squad this season. Junior Cody Machen (5-9, 165) returns at quarterback and will serve as a vocal leader on offense and defense. Junior Blake Cooper (5-7, 155) and promoted sophomore Sean Moore (5-8, 205) provide a boost to the backfield.

Defensively, junior John Allison (5-9, 160) will assist Machen at cornerback. Freshman Jeremy Casey (5-6, 130) can help at safety, while many other freshmen should see playing time throughout the season.

The Eagles begin the season playing host to Western Yell County (2-7 in 2010) and Two Rivers (1-9 in 2010), which accounted for the Eagles’ only wins last year.