16 Aug 2017 ENGLAND: Lions still team to beat in 5-2A

Conference: 5-2A
Coach: Matt Garrett
’16 Record: 13-1

The England Lions continued their incredible run in 2016, running the table in the regular season and making a deep playoff run before falling in the 2A semifinals. Matt Garrett, who recently served as England’s offensive coordinator, takes over the program.

Senior Darrius Clarkson, junior Justus Filoteo and sophomore Mason Brazeal compete to take over the quarterback position for the explosive Lion offense. Clarkson also played last fall at running back and receiver. Senior Demarcus Houston also gives England play-making ability in the backfield and at receiver. Seniors Michael Dillon, Cameron Sain and Jordon Slayden; junior Demond Scales; and sophomores Eljess Hunter, Keshawn Harris and Tamarious Dodson rotate on the offensive line.

Slayden, Scales, junior Therman Clingmon and sophomore KeVante Davis project as starters on the defensive line. Clarkson and Kvon McPherson return at linebacker. Filoteo, Houston, junior Tyler Woods and junior Jalen Rhodes defend the secondary.

5 Players to Watch:
Darrius Clarkson (Sr. QB/RB/WR/DB)
Justus Filoteo (Jr. QB/DB)
Mason Brazeal (Soph. QB)
Demarcus Houston (Sr. RB/WR/DB)
Jordon Slayden (Sr. OL/DL)

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1 Must-see Game:
“Conway Christian poses the biggest challenge to England’s 5-2A title defense. The Lions host Conway Christian in Week 6.” — 501 staff

2017 Schedule:
Sept. 1        at McCrory
Sept. 8        Junction City
Sept. 15    at Episcopal
Sept. 22    Magnet Cove
Sept. 29    at Bigelow
Oct. 6        Conway Christian
Oct. 13        at Cutter Morning Star
Oct. 20        at Hector
Oct. 27        Quitman
Nov. 2        Poyen