12 Aug 2012 SEARCY: Lions for big wins with returning starters
Classification: 7A/6A East
Coach: Tim Harper
Last Season: 9-3 (5-2)
In 2012, the Searcy Lions are hoping to produce more games like their week two win over Batesville last season.
“Our quarterback threw over 300 yards, and it was the first time we beat Batesville in over 10 years,” Coach Tim Harper said. “The community saw it as a big win. We played very well.”
With a large number of returning starters this season, Searcy hopes to accumulate more big wins.
“We have some great skill guys returning this year that will really set us apart,” said Harper.
Senior receiver Cam Woodruff (5-8, 170) led the team in scoring last year with an impressive 15 touchdowns.
“Woodruff is a great hardworking kid,” Harper said. “We expect big things from him.”
Returning starters Micky DeMarzo (6-3, 250) and Javion Clifton will contribute their part on the offensive line.
Searcy anticipates the secondary to be its biggest strength on defense this season.
“We feel like we are going to be pretty solid,” Harper said. “The interior defensive line is something we feel pretty comfortable with.”
Returning defensive tackles Grant Grady (6-2, 295) and Dre Chatman (6-0, 225) are expected to be great interior players. The Lions will also be returning the second leading tackler from last year, senior inebacker Bradley Root (5-11, 210).
“It’s going to be tough this year in conference,” Harper said. “We play a lot of schools that are quite a bit bigger than us, but it will give us a chance to step it up and compete at a higher level."
