As football kickoff inches closer around the country, MaxPreps forecasts the top five teams in the state of Missouri for the 2009 season.
1. Madison Central
In 2008, Madison Central laid the building blocks for what could be a state championship season in 2009. The Jaguars finished 12-2 and made an appearance in the 5A semifinals. This year, with Mississippi adding another class, they are favorites to be the inaugural 6A champ. Quarterback Peyton Johnson, receiver Tobias Singleton and a host of playmakers on defense are all back for Madison Central. The team has the talent and experience to run the table in 2009.
Nick Parker will be a load to bring down for South Panola.
Chris Evans
2. South Panola
The Tigers have been a figure on the state and national scene for the better part of a decade. Their 89-game winning streak as well a televised win against Apopka (Fla.) last season have helped bring Mississippi football to the national stage. Though the team failed to win its sixth straight state title, there’s great reason for optimism for the 2009 Tigers. Running back Nicholas Parker is back, and he’s arguably the state’s best player, rushing for 2,500 and 26 touchdowns last year.
3. Oak Grove
The strength of the 2009 Oak Grove team will undoubtedly be its skill players. Wide receivers Robert Johnson and Steve McNair Jr. return after combining for 106 catches, 1,594 yards, and 12 touchdowns in 2009. An offseason spent hauling in passes from NFL legend Brett Favre won’t hurt, either. Quarterback James McMahon will resume quarterback duties in the fall and should have little problem finding either target. While replacements needs to emerge on the offensive line, the Warriors may have the offensive firepower to push for a 6A state title.
4. Olive Branch
Head coach Scott Samsel’s squad has a lot to be excited about for 2009. The Conquistadors have a giant offensive line that is led by Damien Robinson and Shalon Coleman, an Auburn commit. Eric Lawson gives Olive Branch a third lineman that stands at least 6-foot-7. Keyshun Shipp is back at running back and sophomore Todd Mays may see time at quarterback. The defense returns starters in each unit. If Olive Branch’s young skill players can prove themselves, the Conquistadors have a great shot at a deep playoff run.{VIDEO_3b111deb-c289-4b4f-94ee-fae793357486,floatRightWithBar}
5. Meridian
In 2008, the Wildcats did what no team in Mississippi had accomplished in six seasons: they beat South Panola. Meridian pulled out a 26-20 thriller in the 5A state final that sent shockwaves around the country. Quarterback Tyler Russell and wide receiver Chris Smith, lynchpins to the championship squad, have moved on to Mississippi State. However, talented young players eager for playing time surround both sides of the ball. Given that the Wildcats were state semifinalists in 2007, it’s hard to look at last year’s team as a fluke. It may experience some growing pains, but Meridian will be strong in 2009.
