Football preview: Jefferson — Aug. 13

Jefferson

At a glance

Coach: Joe Midulla, fifth season

Class: 2, District 6 (Metro)

Last season: 3-7

Key players: WR/DB Ahmad Bacon, So.; OT Ibrahim Diallo, Jr.; LB/RB Jaron Gunn, So.; LB/TE Marcus Hicks, So.; QB Roderick Mack, So.; WR/DB Sykhi Madison, Sr.; OL/DL Carmine Morton, Jr.; RB Nashaun Pryor, Sr.LB/RB Will Stillings, So.

Schedule

Aug. 19 at Gaither, 7:30 (preseason)

Aug. 26 at Sickles, 7:30

Sept. 2 vs. King, 7:30

Sept. 9 vs. Sumner, 7:30

Sept. 16 at Hillsborough, 7:30

Sept. 23 vs. East Bay, 7:30

Sept. 30 at Blake, 7:30

Oct. 7 vs. Plant, 7:30

Oct. 14 at Robinson, 7:30

Oct. 21 Bye

Oct. 28 vs. Tampa Catholic, 7:30

Nov. 4 at Plant City, 7:30

Outlook

After starting 1-7 last season, Jefferson finished with two wins. That momentum could carry over, despite the Dragons losing several players who transferred to other schools. Jefferson still has about 40-50 on varsity and coach Joe Midulla said unity is one of the team’s strengths. Nashaun Pryor, who rushed for a team-leading 713 yards and nine touchdowns last season, will be the biggest weapon on offense. He will run behind a solid offensive line that includes Ibrahim Diallo and Carmine Morton. On defense, the leaders are Jaron Gunn (25 tackles and two sacks last season) and Marcus Hicks (19 tackles).