The Red Devils finished 4-3 to tie for third in the 6A-East in 2008.

Jacksonville defeated Sheridan in the first round of the playoffs, 13-12, before getting demolished by the eventual state champion, Lake Hamilton, 41-0.

“Our football team came together,” coach Mark Whatley said. “We were a lot more talented in 2007, but our group of seniors last year made the chemistry work.”

Junior Logan Perry (5-10, 165) returns at quarterback after an all-conference season in 2008. Senior Devon Featherston (5-10, 160) is Perry’s only returning receiver.

“Perry is a student of the game,” Whatley said. “He didn’t turn 16 until the first round of the playoffs. He’s mature and handles pressure well. Featherston has good hands and runs well. He understands our offense.

“We have only two offensive linemen back. We’re in the crawling stages right now offensively.”

The defense is another story as nine players return. Senior Nick Nowden (6-0, 200) and junior Don Crutchfield (6-0, 225) lead the Red Devil defense at defensive end and middle linebacker, respectively.

“We played as many as eight sophomores on the field last year,” Whatley said. “We expect them to grow up this year.

“How fast we can establish our attitude, how committed we are and how prepared we are each week will determine how far we go as a team.”

2009 Schedule

Sept. 1 – Cabot (Away)

Sept. 11 – Vilonia

Sept. 18 – Mills

Sept. 25 – Mountain Home (Away)

Oct. 2 – Jonesboro (Away)

Oct. 9 – LR Hall

Oct. 16 – Searcy (Away)

Oct. 23 – LR Parkview

Oct. 30 – West Memphis (Away)

Nov. 6 – Marion