SEASON OUTLOOK
Riley Ferguson will be a three-year starter and will move on to Tennessee after high school. But before then, he's looking to get a state title.
Photo by Troy Cherry
Mallard Creek. Fast-rising Mallard Creek knocked off Butler last season and will be strong again in 2012. It features standout receiver Marquez North, one of the top players nationally.
Question mark: Will the defense be better in 2012? The team’s offense should be good, but its defense left much to be desired in the second half against Page. With eight returning starters, the unit should be improved. Mallard Creek will provide a good barometer.
Local look: Butler and Mallard Creek will be the top teams around Charlotte, but Independence, Butler’s old rival, should be improved. Page, which captured the 4A state title last year, should be down a bit. Perennial power Britt will have a first-year coach, so the jury is still out on the Fayetteville school. Richmond was young last season and will be a factor down the stretch.
Overall outlook: This team returns as much talent on paper as the 2010 team, which had in incredible run culminating with an undefeated season and a high national ranking. Now that Hales has had a year to adjust to the head role, the team is far ahead of where it was last year in terms of preparing for the season. There are few holes on this team, and the potential for another undefeated season clearly exists.
Coach quote: “We have so much back because we had to replace so much the year before. There were some growing pains.”
- Head coach Brian Hales
