27 Aug 2011 Mayflower: 14 starters return with 2-3A crown in sight

Mayflower only managed three wins in 2010. Luckily for them, they were all in 2-3A conference play, giving the Eagles enough wins to make it to the playoffs. They fell in the first round, 54-25, to eventual state champion Rivercrest.

“We were happy to make the playoffs, but we were still disappointed in our record,” coach Jed Davis said. “We hope to be more consistent this year.”

Mayflower returns 14 starters – eight on defense and six on offense. Senior Chris Croson (6-0, 185) is taking over at quarterback. He’ll be joined in the backfield by classmate and all-state running back Taylor Mathis (5-8, 190).

“Croson is making the move to quarterback from receiver,” Davis said. “We expect a lot out of him. Also, we are excited about our team of wide receivers – senior Cody Elmore (5-10, 180) and sophomores Garrett Taylor (6-1, 175) and Madison Chambliss (6-0, 175).”

Defensively the Eagles will look to junior linebacker Cody Funderburg (5-10, 195) and decorated senior defensive end Deric Parks (6-3, 260) to lead the way.

“Those two should really do well this season,” Davis said.

The 2-3A is a little top heavy, but the Eagles are right in the mix to earn a playoff berth again this fall. Davis believes they can do even more than just make it to the playoffs.

“Everyone is going to be battling to win conference, but we expect to compete for the conference championship this year,” Davis said.