14. Plant (Tampa, Fla.) - Full preview
Receiver Dereck Mann is primed for a big season for Plant, which is gunning for another Class 8A state title.
Photo by Marc Estrada
Strengths: Top to bottom, Plant could be as deep and talented as it has ever been. Running back
Wesley Bullock is James Wilder in a 5-foot-6 frame, as he rushed for 1,308 yards a year ago. A big, talented offensive line, featuring
Richy Klepal,
Richard Bush and
Ray Raulerson is going to maul opposing teams. Plant has plenty of options at quarterback, though it seems that
Aaron Banks will be the go-to guy at the position.
Question marks: Plant normally finds and coaches formidable receivers, but the challenge is exacerbated this offseason with the loss of Austin Roberts, who is transferring to Carmel. The arrival of
Tristan Cooper, whose father joined the Bucs staff, should help.
Outlook: In all likelihood, this Plant team will be better than last year’s 14-1, Class 8A state title-winning squad. That says a lot. It will have to earn it, however, with an early matchup against John Curtis and its annual throw down with Armwood, which has had its number recently.
