ENGLAND: Lions’ skill players lead the way

Conference: 5-2A
Coach: Andrew Roberson
’17 Record: 5-6

After winning 13 games two years in a row, the England Lions dropped to 5-6 last fall, but remained competitive among the top of the 5-2A. Andrew Roberson takes over the program after previously coaching at Conway Christian.

(Andrea Stracener photo)

Mason Brazeal is back at quarterback. The junior passed for 1,376 yards and 19 touchdowns in his sophomore campaign. England has big shoes to fill as 2,000-plus yard rusher Darrius Clarkson graduated in May. K’von McPherson and athlete Darren McClinton will lead the rushing attack. Seniors Justus Filoteo and Tyler Woods and junior Tamarous Dodson provide big-time playmaking potential at receiver. Sam Marales, George Mendoza, Keyshawn Harris, DeShun Hogan and Chris Lopez keep the offense moving from the offensive line.

Senior Jordon Slayden is a force at noseguard. Dodson and senior Demond Scales hold down the ends. Linebackers McPherson, Lopez, Filoteo, Blake Benson and Therman Clingmon spread across the field in Roberson’s 3-3 Stack defense. Brandon Terry, Jalen Rhodes and Michael Cooley provide speed in coverage in the secondary.

“We will run the spread on offense and run multiple defenses,” Coach Andrew Roberson said. “Our strength is that we are really good at the skill positions. Lack of depth is our main weakness. The 5-2A, from top to bottom, will be very competitive.”

 

5 Players to Watch: 

Mason Brazeal (Jr. QB)

Tyler Woods (Sr. WR)

Justus Filoteo (Sr. WR/LB)

Darren McClinton (Soph. WR/DB)

K’von McPherson (Jr. RB/LB)

 

1 Must-see Game:

“Either the Magnet Cove game or the Conway Christian game. However, any game would be good in our conference.” — Roberson

 

2018 Schedule:

Aug. 24 at Des Arc

Aug. 31 McCrory

Sept. 7 Clarendon

Sept. 21 at Magnet Cove

Sept. 28 Bigelow

Oct. 5 at Conway Christian

Oct. 12 Cutter Morning Star

Oct. 19 Mountain Pine

Oct. 26 at Quitman

Nov. 1 at Poyen

 

501 Football Team ’18

Justus Filoteo

Classification: Sr.

Position: WR/LB

On the field: Great work ethic and leadership.

Off the field: Good student in the classroom and helps those around him to be better.