22. Ensworth (Nashville, Tenn.) - Full preview
Corn Elder is one of the most dynamic players in the country.
Photo by Randy Sartin
Strengths: Fifteen starters are back from a 2011 team that captured the Division II-AA title in convincing fashion, avenging its only loss by thrashing Baylor 48-10. Running back
Cornelius Elder is the obvious prized returner, but head coach Ricky Bowers’ squad returns eight linemen who saw action last fall. Ensworth also had a boat load of young talent that could blossom as sophomores.
Question marks: Someone will have to step up at wide receiver to replace Cory Batey, who is now at Vanderbilt. Fullback, in Ensworth’s Pro-I set, is a big question mark as well. Unlike most teams on this list, Ensworth will have key guys playing both ways, including Elder. An injury to him could derail the team’s three-peat hopes.
Outlook: Ensworth looked dominant for most of last season. Its one hiccup was a big one, however: A 42-14 blowout loss to Baylor in which Elder was shutdown and Ensworth committed three turnovers. This year’s squad is the prohibitive favorite in Division II-AA. Anything short of a third-consecutive state title would be a disappointment.
