Aug. 31: No. 24 Hoover (Ala.) at South Panola (Batesville, Miss.)
South Panola looks like it's back to national prominence, and will host one of neighboring Alabama's best. Last year's team (pictured) was ranked in the preseason.
Photo by Chris Evans
Hoover returns 11 starters from a rebuilding season and adds what appears to be an outstanding sophomore class. Coach Josh Niblett (54-6 in four years) told the Birmingham News that he projects 10 or 12 sophomores to find starting positions on offense, defense or special teams.
Senior safety
Devon Earl, a South Alabama recruit, brings guidance to the defense and cornerback
Marlon Humphrey brings superb talent. Senior quarterback
Connor Short is ready for a full season after taking over at midseason when the starter was injured.
South Panola had dominated Mississippi until the past couple years and is coming off a 9-4 rebuilding campaign. Dynamic two-way starter
Antonio Conner is the key returnee. Junior Rip Kirk will move in at quarterback and will be protected by a huge offensive line, led by Mississippi State University recruit
Deon Mix.
