16 Aug 2014 Hot Springs: Trojans battling for playoff spot

Conference: 5A South
Coach: Chris Vereen
’13 Record: 3-7 (2-5)

The 2013 season just wasn’t quite what Hot Springs fans were expecting.

“Disappointing,” Coach Chris Vereen said. “We had a few key injuries early. Our quarterback was injured in a scrimmage.”

But hope springs eternal for the Trojans who return eight starters on each side of the ball this fall.

Anthony Goffigan is expected to start at quarterback after rushing for 708 yards in 2013. Running back Nathan Jones accumulated 430 yards on the grown last season, and Clarence Floyd averaged 11.8 yards per carry and 33.1 yards per catch last fall.

Linebacker Kamar Brown racked up 113 tackles a year ago.  

“We must control the ball offensively and do a better job in the secondary,” Vereen said. “We play in the toughest conference in 5A. I think this is the year where any of the eight teams could make the playoffs.”

Other expected starters include: fullback James Morrow, tight end Kevin Hill, center Colton Wiggins, guard Bryan Rosburg, guard Emmitt Hill, tackle Ricky Wilson, tackle Clifford Jackson, wide receiver Alex Tobar, linebacker Goffigan, linebacker Tony Loudermilk, linebacker Rosburg, defensive tackle Dante Ibarra, defensive tackle Jacob McNeil, defensive end Ricky Wilson, defensive end Stephon Moss, safety Devin Byers, safety Floyd, corner back Tobar and cornerback Morrow.

“We’re stronger and have lots of experience,” Vereen said. “Our weaknesses are team speed, and we must avoid injuries”

5 Players to Watch:

Anthony Goffigan
Clarence Floyd
Nathan Jones
Kamar Brown
James Morrow

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1 Must-see Game:
“Lakeside. Rivalry game that may decide a playoff spot.” — Vereen

2014 Schedule:
Sept. 5        Lake Hamilton
Sept. 12    at Mena
Sept. 19    Arkadelphia
Sept. 26    at Watson Chapel
Oct. 3        at Hope
Oct. 10        at De Queen
Oct. 17        Magnolia
Oct. 24        at White Hall
Oct. 31        Camden Fairview
Nov. 7        HS Lakeside