20. Oscar Smith (Chesapeake, Va.) - Full preview
DeShawn McClease is one of the nation's top young running backs. He should be able to fill the void left by J.C. Coleman.
Photo by Clarence Thomas
Strengths: While Oscar Smith is usually well-known for its skill players, this year’s squad will be led by its offensive and defensive lines, both of which return most of their starters. That’s not to say it lacks in the skill department, where sophomore
DeShawn McClease will fill in for J.C. Coleman. Head coach Richard Morgan believes there will be little drop off and and expects McClease to be a national recruit as a senior.
Marcus Smith will also get carries.
Question marks: From Phillip Sims to Jaylin Williamson, the quarterback position has not been a well-stocked position for Oscar Smith recently. That does not appear to be the case in 2012, as there’s no clear next-in-line behind center.
Dashawn Blow, last year’s backup, could be the guy. However, don’t be surprised if dynamic athlete
Zach Jones sees some time there.
Outlook: Last year, Oscar Smith’s only setback was a season-opening, 51-27 setback to Gilman. After surviving against Salem, the Tigers won their last two games by an average of 27 points, ending on a very high note. This season’s out-of-state contest is an even bigger opportunity for Oscar Smith: A showdown with Byrnes (Duncan, S.C.) and a rare opportunity to see one of Virginia’s best teams take on a top out-of-state foe.
