news-record.com

Smith

LAST SEASON: 0-11, 0-5 Metro 4-A (6th place)

ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT: There's nowhere to go but up for the Golden Eagles, who have lost 21 straight games. There's a new energy around the program with first-year head coach Rodney Brewington, in everything from the new weight room installed last year to the new equipment donated by private sponsors to the 40-foot eagle that adorns midfield at the school's stadium. "The kids were ready for the direction," Brewington said.

QB TALK: Quarterback Jabril Davis will be the focal point of Brewington's Wing-T offense, which will use plenty of misdirection in the backfield. Davis has already emerged as an emotional leader of the team. "When in doubt, put your best athlete at quarterback," Brewington said. He'll get protection from senior linemen DeMaris Bowe and Shaun Neal and will have a big target in all-conference tight end Brandon Carrington, who also plays defensive end. Nick Burns should see most of the carries at running back.

YOUNG BUT STRONG: The anchor of the Eagles' defense could end up being their all-underclassmen linebacking corps. Freshman Marlon Hughes, who can already deadlift 400 pounds, will play in the middle, with sophomores Duke McCoy and Antoine Nevious to either side. "They're as good as any linebackers you can have," Brewington said. "They're growing up quick." Hughes, who will also see time at tailback, offers a big smile but few words. "I like to hit," he said.