The Knights are poised for another deep playoff run under head coach John Ware.
North Webster returns plenty of firepower offensively with All-American Devin White and speedsters Jalen Smith and Xavious Eason in the backfield. Junior Cameron Huff who saw time last year at the starting quarterback spot will have full reign over the offense this season, and Ware said he thinks Huff will give the nights a boost in the passing game when they need it.
Senior linebackers Keuntra Gipson (6’3″, 230 pounds) and Rico Gonzalez will team with White to form one of the scariest linebacking cores in the state. The secondary suffered major losses in Lyntravious Gipson, Darius Gilbert and Jekyren Miles, but the Knights have the depth and coaching to figure it out.
Look for four-year starter Dallas Lay to dominate on the offensive line and play valuable defensive snaps as well. With Evangel’s move to 5A, district 1-3A will go through Springhill.
Scouting Report
Offense: The focal point of the Knights offense will be Devin White, but weapons like Xavious Eason, Wesley Saunders and Jalen Smith can’t be ignored. Dallas Lay and the rest of a solid offensive line will pave the way.
Defense: Coach John Ware always fields a great defense, and this year is no exception. White, Keuntra Gipson and Rico Gonzalez can all start in any classification. Secondary will be unproven, but Knight fans need not worry.
Special Teams: Conroe McMullan is one of the best weapons in the state in the kicking game. His range extends out to 45 yards and he gets great hang time on kickoffs and punts. Look for either White or Eason to excel in the return game. John Ware’s teams always have a special teams trick up their sleeve.
Players to Watch
Devin White(RB/LB) – White was unstoppable last season. Look for that to continue as the senior tailback’s blend of size, strength and speed are too much for most high school players to handle. The Knights will go as far as he can take them.
Rico Gonzalez(DE/LB) – After a strong junior season, Gonzalez is hoping for another all-district campaign. Good size and great speed allow Gonzalez to fly around and cause havoc.
Dallas Lay (OL/DL) – Lay has been opening holes for North Webster runners and protecting quarterbacks since his freshman year. Four years of starting experience can not be understated. Lay is vital to the Knights’ success.
District Prediction
1) North Webster
2) Loyola
3) Mansfield
4) Green Oaks
5) Booker T. Washington