BOONE COUNTY REBELS

Head Coach: Rick Thompson (93-73 @ Boone County, 14 years, 93-73 overall)

2011 Record: 9-5, 2-2

The Rebels got hot at the right time a year ago, making a run to the Class 6A state semi-finals before losing in a nail biter to Scott County. Head coach Rick Thompson saw many of the key contributors from that team graduate though and now will look to a new group of core players to carry the torch.

One area where experience will reign for the Rebels is the offensive line where Logan Briedis, Kody Crank, Alfie Allen, and Jesse Bowling will help open up gaping holes for the Boone County rushing attack. The offense needs to find an explosive playmaker. Thompson is hoping that someone amongst first-year players Mustafa Diaw, Casey Boston, and Aaron Floyd can emerge out of the backfield. Veteran fullback Sam Steele will open holes for whoever is carrying the ball. Blake Ingolia is expected to take over at quarterback.

Boone County held opponents to 15.4 points per game a year ago and allowed seven points or less in six of their 14 contests. While things look good up front for the Rebels, the lack of experience at linebacker and safety raise questions about the unit as a whole. Senior defensive back Jeremiah Williams will be counted on as a leader after having 45 tackles and two interceptions a year ago. Floyd will join him as a starter in the secondary. Steele and Crank are the leaders up front with Boston expected to lead the linebacker corps.

This post was edited on 7/22 8:25 AM by DClasgens