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Preseason Preview: Class 5A/Region 1

Preseason Preview: Class 5A/Region 1
Chris Smith
Chris Smith August 8, 2025 @ 02:21 PM
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In this article:

Jackson Clark
Jackson Clark 6'2" | 280 lbs | OL | 2026
TN
Dayton Myers
Dayton Myers 6'6" | 310 lbs | OL | 2027
TN
Malachi Monroe
Malachi Monroe 5'8" | 215 lbs | RB/LB | 2026
TN
Nathan Patterson
Nathan Patterson 5'10" | 180 lbs | RB | 2028
TN
Wyatt Maples
Wyatt Maples 6'0" | 170 lbs | DB | 2026
TN
Preston Huskey
Preston Huskey 6'3" | 230 lbs | EDGE/DL | 2026
TN
Colton Mullis
Colton Mullis 6'5" | 230 lbs | DL/TE | 2027
TN
Devon Sanders
Devon Sanders 6'3" | 275 lbs | OL | 2026
TN
A.J. Wynn
A.J. Wynn 6'0" | 190 lbs | QB | 2027
TN
Roman Gibbons
Roman Gibbons 6'0" | 180 lbs | ATH | 2026
TN
Parker Newman
Parker Newman 6'5" | 205 lbs | EDGE/TE | 2027
TN
Jayden Jarnigan
Jayden Jarnigan 6'3" | 260 lbs | OL | 2026
TN
Joey Galazin
Joey Galazin 6'4" | 210 lbs | LB | 2026
TN
Graven Wilson
Graven Wilson 6'0" | 280 lbs | DL | 2027
TN
Cooper Newman
Cooper Newman 6'3" | 200 lbs | QB | 2027
TN
Jaxson Perry
Jaxson Perry 6'3" | 230 lbs | EDGE/DL | 2027
TN
Colby Cunningham
Colby Cunningham 6'1" | 295 lbs | OL | 2026
TN
Colt Campbell
Colt Campbell 6'3" | 290 lbs | OL | 2026
TN
<!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can anyone in this region present a challenge for Sevier Co.? We shall see but it will be extra tough as the Smoky Bears return a stacked roster that is built to go after another Class 5A state championship. </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>5A-Region 1</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cocke Co. Fighting Cocks</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Newport, TN (Cocke Co.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coach: </strong>Daniel Dudley&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2024 Finish: </strong>1-8 Overall (1-4 Region)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Top Players: </strong>(G/C) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1759675' first='Jackson' last='Clark']</strong>, (DL/OL) <strong>Jackson Williams</strong>, (OL/DT) <strong>Skylar Cash</strong>, (G/C) <strong>Waylon Gossett</strong>, (RB) <strong>Daniel Price</strong>, (DT) <strong>Johnathon McGill</strong>, (DB) <strong>Cameron Forte</strong>, (WR/S) <strong>Eli Roberts</strong>, (LB) <strong>Timothy Field</strong>, (Ath) <strong>Colton Sane</strong>, (OL) <strong>Aran Abrams</strong>, (DT/OL) <strong>Eian Caldwell</strong>, (K) <strong>Vincent Steinbacher</strong>, ‘27 (Ath) <strong>Jaquel Porter</strong>, ‘27 (WR/S) <strong>Romon Hazelwood</strong>, ‘27 (OL) <strong>Tyler Hawk&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview: </strong>For many years now, it's been a struggle on the gridiron for the Fighting Cocks but the 2025 season offers an opportunity to push their program into the right direction and I think this year's team has a chance at doing that. This appears to be a deeper team than Cocke Co. has had in the past but it's still a team that needs to find its identity and veteran players must perform at a high level. The strength within the Fighting Cocks offense could be the line of scrimmage. They return a senior core with <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1759675' first='Jackson' last='Clark']</strong>, <strong>Jackson Williams</strong>, <strong>Skylar Cash </strong>and <strong>Waylon Gossett </strong>to form a veteran-laden offensive front that could develop into an excellent run blocking unit. Senior back <strong>Daniel Price </strong>could be the beneficiary from strong play in the line, which allows him to push for a 1,000 yard season. Finding someone to handle quarterback duties is the biggest question mark for Cocke Co. as they run through Fall camp.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Much like the offense, the team strength on defense appears to the trenches. Several players from the O-line like Williams and Cash will play key roles up front but will be helped by fellow senior <strong>Johnathon McGill </strong>and others. If the defensive line can play good football, the Fighting Cocks defense may be good enough to keep them in games. Linebacker is one area over here that I see needing further development over the next few weeks but the secondary should be solid with returning seniors in <strong>Cameron Forte</strong>, <strong>Eli Roberts </strong>and <strong>Colton Sane</strong>. This isn't an overly athletic defensive unit for Cocke Co. but if they play consistent, physical football, they should do well enough to help their offense. Coming off a one win season, there is nowhere to go but up for the Fighting Cocks. I need to see how they perform early this season to make sure if they are a playoff team or not. Right now, I think they have a shot but there is a lot of work to do to get there.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1777101,"width":"236px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/08/jackclark.jpg?w=768" alt="" class="wp-image-1777101" style="width:236px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Daniel Boone Trailblazers</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Gray, TN (Washington Co.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coach: </strong>Jeremy Jenkins&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2024 Finish: </strong>0-10 Overall (0-5 Region)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Top Returning Players: </strong>(DE/TE) <strong>Drake Walton</strong>, (LB) <strong>Micah Martin</strong>, (DE/LB) <strong>Jude Hensley</strong>, (Ath) <strong>Dillon Murphy</strong>, (C/G) <strong>Sam Alsalim</strong>, ‘27 (OL) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1726927' first='Dayton' last='Myers']</strong>, (WR/S) <strong>Quinlan Held</strong>, (RB/LB) <strong>Dru Fleming</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview: </strong>A once proud program has been on some rough times over the past few years and I don't know if things will be any better during the upcoming 2025 season. The Trailblazers are lacking overall talent and depth on both sides of the ball but this is a new team with new players stepping forward, so you never know what can happen during a new football year. Looking at the Daniel Boone offense, it's bare when it comes to established starters or playmakers. One guy to watch for with a potential breakout year is junior two-way backer <strong>Dru Fleming</strong>. His ability to gain positive yards on a consistent basis is key for the Blazers offense to succeed but so will the play up front. Two big men in <strong>Sam Alsalim </strong>and junior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1726927' first='Dayton' last='Myers'] </strong>are good pieces in the line but the staff will need others around them to form a formidable offensive line.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Blazers offense could go through some growing pains this season, so their defense must step up to the plate and perform at a high level each week while the other side of the ball figures things out. Daniel Boone has a few solid senior pieces to work around in <strong>Drake Walton</strong>, <strong>Micah Martin </strong>and <strong>Jude Hensley</strong>, who all compete in the front seven but the secondary is where I see further work needed. The one thing really lacking on the Blazers team this year appears to be athleticism. Now I could be wrong about that as we get into the season but on paper right now, the skill positions on both sides of the ball are missing athleticism and explosive play. It could be another long season for the Trailblazers but getting out of their winless streak is possible. Leaning on their run game and physical play up front could be the recipe to pick up a few victories this year.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>David Crockett Pioneers</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Jonesborough, TN (Washington Co.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coach: </strong>Hayden Chandley&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2024 Finish: </strong>4-6 Overall (2-3 Region)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Top Returning Players: </strong>(OL/DL) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1646457' first='Devon' last='Sanders']</strong>, (RB/LB) <strong>Sam Casey</strong>, (DB) <strong>Shawn Summers</strong>, (G/C) <strong>Tyler Ball</strong>, (OL) <strong>Keegan Stonesifer</strong>, (LB) <strong>Zeke Slone</strong>, ‘27 (QB/LB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1646456' first='A.J.' last='Wynn']</strong>, ‘27 (TE/DE) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1646467' first='Colton' last='Mullis']</strong>, ‘27 (WR/S) <strong>Marckis Carrier</strong>, ‘27 (RB) <strong>Jon Hall</strong>, ‘27 (Ath) <strong>Chace Taylor</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1777105,"width":"229px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/08/ajwynn.webp?w=430" alt="" class="wp-image-1777105" style="width:229px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview: </strong>Coming off a four win season in 2024, the Pioneers are looking to build off that and compete for a top three region spot and they have a veteran core returning that can help them get there. The offense is led by junior quarterback <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1646456' first='A.J.' last='Wynn']</strong>, who is undersized in height but is well built physically with a solid right arm. He should be handing the ball off to senior two-way backer <strong>Sam Casey </strong>while having two good pieces out wide to throw to in <strong>Shawn Summers </strong>and junior <strong>Marckis Carrier</strong>. The Pioneers might be working with a solid O-line this season as well, led by seniors <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1646457' first='Devon' last='Sanders']</strong>, <strong>Tyler Ball </strong>and <strong>Keegan Stonesifer</strong>. A few spots on offense need to be filled out but I see potential here for David Crockett to have a high scoring unit that brings a balanced attack to the field.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>While I like what I see from the Pioneers offense, their defense needs some work. Multiple players like Carrier, Sanders, Summers and Wynn will be going both ways this Fall and be top players on the defensive side of the ball but others around them must step forward to become known names. Senior linebacker <strong>Zeke Slone </strong>has potential to lead the defense in tackles. The breakout player to watch on defense this season should be junior edge rusher <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1646467' first='Colton' last='Mullis']</strong>. Standing 6'5 230 plus pounds, Mullis has the length and size that fits in the college game. I do see potential with this defense but depth needs to be grown while their star players consistently perform at a high level. Matching their win total from last year I believe will happen but I can see the Pioneers expanding that number while earning a spot in the playoffs.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Morristown-West Trojans&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Morristown, TN (Hamblen Co.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coach: </strong>Alvin Sanders&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2024 Finish: </strong>4-6 Overall (4-1 Region)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Top Returning Players: </strong>(S) <strong>Kole Miller</strong>, (DB/WR) <strong>Ladarion Rabion</strong>, (RB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1699554' first='Malachi' last='Monroe']</strong>, (WR) <strong>Marquise Davis</strong>, ‘27 (TE/DE) <strong>Blake Jones</strong>, ‘27 (G/C) <strong>Camden Ray-Dailey</strong>, ‘27 (G/C) <strong>Braiden Clevenger</strong>, ‘27 (QB) <strong>Riley McClellan</strong>, ‘27 (RB/S) <strong>Brady Darnell</strong>, ‘27 (DL) <strong>Jayden Moore</strong>, ‘27 (G/C) <strong>Lucas Barrick</strong>, ‘27 (WR/S) <strong>Dawson Holt</strong>, ‘27 (RB/S) <strong>Bobby Fair</strong>, ‘28 (DE) <strong>Keagan Covington</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview: </strong>A sneaky team in this region that could compete for a top three spot are these Trojans. There is some college talent on this roster but only if those prospects develop further and produce at a high level. Starting with the Mo-West offense, the quarterback position is settled with junior <strong>Riley McClellan</strong>. I see upside with McClellan but he must continue to get bigger and stronger moving forward. Joining him in the backfield appears to be senior back <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1699554' first='Malachi' last='Monroe']</strong>. Those two should have time to throw and lanes to run through with a solid offensive line, spearheaded by <strong>Camden Ray-Dailey</strong>, <strong>Braiden Clevenger </strong>and <strong>Lucas Barrick</strong>. A safety net and key piece for the offense could be tight end <strong>Blake Jones</strong>. This two-way big man, who will play a big role at defensive end, should develop into a nice go-to option for McClellan and a prospect that has the physical abilities to reach the next level.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Trojans defense is a tough unit to project going into the season but if the right players step forward into starting roles while the top players perform well, Mo-West could have a solid defense on their hands. The defensive line is an interesting core to scout as some big men will have to go both ways but two guys in <strong>Jaylen Moore </strong>and rising sophomore <strong>Keagan Covington </strong>have a shot to be major playmakers up front. The secondary has some roles to fill in but should still be solid with <strong>Kole Miller </strong>providing leadership on the back end. The linebacking corp looks like the position that needs work in camp to find top tier tacklers. Finding guys who fill in the gaps and make tackles versus the run is critical for the defense's overall success. I like what I see from the Trojans but things can happen, like injuries or lack of chemistry. If this team comes together and everyone remains healthy, I foresee a postseason berth on the horizon.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Sevier Co. Smoky Bears</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Sevierville, TN (Sevier Co.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coach: </strong>Todd Loveday</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2024 Finish: </strong>15-0 Overall (5-0 Region - Defending 5A Champs)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Top Returning Players: </strong>(LB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1543020' first='Joey' last='Galazin']</strong>, (WR/S) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1630984' first='Roman' last='Gibbons']</strong>, (Edge) <strong>John Mason</strong>, (DB) <strong>Bryson Headrick</strong>, (DB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1648091' first='Wyatt' last='Maples']</strong>, (OL/DT) <strong>Jacob Greene</strong>, (OL/DL) <strong>Nolan Parton</strong>, (C/G) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='801918' first='Colby' last='Cunningham']</strong>, (OL/DT) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1576771' first='Jayden' last='Jarnigan']</strong>, (LB) <strong>Brock McGinnis</strong>, ‘27 (QB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1142902' first='Cooper' last='Newman']</strong>, ‘27 (DE/TE) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1103040' first='Jaxson' last='Perry']</strong>, ‘27 (WR/TE) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1577078' first='Parker' last='Newman']</strong>, ‘27 (WR/S) <strong>Parker Adams</strong>, ‘27 (WR/S) <strong>Mason Akers</strong>, ‘28 (RB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1661127' first='Nathan' last='Patterson']</strong>, ‘28 (S) <strong>Zach Banks</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>New Additions: </strong>(OL) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='402533' first='Colt' last='Campbell'] </strong>(Seymour), (DE/TE) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1647122' first='Preston' last='Huskey'] </strong>(Bearden), ‘27 (WR/S) <strong>Diego DeCoursey </strong>(Gatlinburg-Pittman), ‘27 (OL/DT) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1308269' first='Graven' last='Wilson'] </strong>(Carter)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1692772,"width":"195px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/06/jaxperry2.jpg?w=683" alt="" class="wp-image-1692772" style="width:195px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview: </strong>Everything in this region runs through the Smoky Bears, especially with them coming off an undefeated, state title winning season. It's scary for the opposition this year as mostly all the key players from last year's championship returns this Fall, placing Sevier Co. at the top of the list to repeat as 5A champions. A big reason that can happen is the play of quarterback <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1142902' first='Cooper' last='Newman']. </strong>The junior passer is one of the top prospects in the state for the #TN2027 class with a great opportunity to bring home “Mr. Football” this year. Newman should have a clean pocket this season, helped by a strong O-line that is led by seniors <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='402533' first='Colt' last='Campbell']</strong>, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='801918' first='Colby' last='Cunningham']</strong>, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1576771' first='Jayden' last='Jarnigan']</strong>, <strong>Jacob Greene </strong>and <strong>Nolan Parton</strong>. The skill positions on offense are solid but don't have that jump off the page star. Watch out for sophomore running back <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1661127' first='Nathan' last='Patterson'] </strong>to have a breakout season where he provides balance to the offense.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Smoky Bears offense should be explosive with a ball control mindset but their defense should equally be as stout with the ability to shut down opposing competition. The defensive front is deep and talented, especially with the addition of <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1647122' first='Preston' last='Huskey']</strong>. He will be joined by two-way prospect <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1103040' first='Jaxson' last='Perry'] </strong>to form one of the better pass rushing duos in the state. Senior <strong>John Mason </strong>and junior two-way talent <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1577078' first='Parker' last='Newman'] </strong>are versatile pieces that can work off the edge or play the box. The secondary isn't overly athletic but they are efficient and technique sound. Seniors <strong>Bryson Headrick </strong>is a ball hawk that has produced a lot of interceptions and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1648091' first='Wyatt' last='Maples'] </strong>provides versatility on the back end. The defensive backfield received a big boost this summer with the addition of junior safety <strong>Diego DeCoursey</strong>, who has college upside. The Smoky Bears are stacked for the 2025 season and well equipped to chase after another state title. The only thing that will keep them from competing for another championship is injuries, so if everyone stays healthy, it could be another “Gold Ball” type season for Sevier County.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Tennessee High Vikings</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Location: </strong>Bristol, TN (Sullivan Co.)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Head Coach: </strong>Josh Holt&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2024 Finish: </strong>7-4 Overall (3-2 Region)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Top Returning Players: </strong>(RB/LB) <strong>Cooper Booher</strong>, (OL/DL) <strong>Kai Allison</strong>, (Ath) <strong>Kalel Honaker</strong>, (OL/DL) <strong>Erasmo Cobian</strong>, (QB) <strong>Jack Richardson</strong>, (LB) <strong>Christian Anderson</strong>, (LB) <strong>Preston Feagins</strong>, (DT/OL) <strong>Ryon Simora</strong>, ‘27 (OL) <strong>Gavin Dickson</strong>, ‘27 (DT/OL) <strong>Peyton Lomans</strong>, ‘27 (LB) <strong>Jackson Reed</strong>, ‘27 (RB/S) <strong>Graham Bailey</strong>, ‘27 (K/P) <strong>Dexter Dishner</strong>, ‘28 (OL/DT) <strong>Jackson Roberts</strong>,<strong> </strong>‘28 (RB) <strong>Carter Smith</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Team Overview: </strong>This is a program that has consistently reached the playoffs over the years and I expect things to remain the same for the 2025 season. The Vikings will be a bit different compared to last year's squad but should still be formidable enough to contend for a top three region spot and a postseason berth. Everything starts at the quarterback position with <strong>Jack Richardson</strong>. This senior signal caller is someone I must learn about much more throughout the coming season but if he commands the huddle, moves the offense without making too many mistakes, the Vikings could be steady on offense. Helping in the backfield should be multiple backs, headlined by senior <strong>Cooper Booher</strong>. Opening up running lanes will be a veteran offensive line that doesn't have a lot of overall size but should be good enough to do their job.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The defensive side of the ball is where I see the biggest upside with Tennessee High. There is a nice senior core returning for the defense with potential impact players coming from all three levels. A few O-linemen should be going both ways in the trenches but some guys to know about who could impact the game are <strong>Kai Allison</strong>, <strong>Erasmo Cobian</strong>, <strong>Ryon Simora </strong>and junior <strong>Peyton Lomans</strong>. The back seven could prove to be the defensive strength. The linebackers are senior-laden with Booher, <strong>Christian Anderson </strong>and <strong>Preston Feagins</strong>. The Vikings secondary needs further development but should be solid, led by senior safety <strong>Kalel Honaker</strong>. This is the kind of defense that can help the team win a bunch of games. If the offense can handle their part, repeating a seven win season is possible along with another playoff appearance.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>#PRZTN Preseason Predictions</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Predicted Order of Finish</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>1. Sevier Co.</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>2. Morristown-West</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>3. Tennessee High</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>4. David Crockett</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>5. Cocke Co.&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>6. Daniel Boone</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>- - - - -&nbsp;</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Preseason Regional Top Honors</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Reg. MVP: </strong>‘27 (QB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1142902' first='Cooper' last='Newman'] </strong>- Sevier Co.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Off. POTY: </strong>‘27 (QB) <strong>Riley McClellan </strong>- Morristown-West&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Def. POTY: </strong>(LB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1543020' first='Joey' last='Galazin'] </strong>- Sevier Co.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Lineman POTY: </strong>(OL) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='402533' first='Colt' last='Campbell'] </strong>- Sevier Co.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Coach of the Year: Todd Loveday </strong>- Sevier Co.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Mr. Football Contenders: </strong>(RB/LB) <strong>Cooper Booher </strong>- Tenn. High, ‘27 (QB) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1142902' first='Cooper' last='Newman'] </strong>- Sevier Co., ‘27 (QB) <strong>Riley McClellan </strong>- Mo-West, ‘27 (TE/Edge) <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1577078' first='Parker' last='Newman'] </strong>- Sevier Co.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":1537556,"width":"232px","height":"auto","sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none"} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img src="https://prepredzone.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/10/cnewman2.jpg?w=500" alt="" class="wp-image-1537556" style="width:232px;height:auto" /></figure> <!-- /wp:image -->

Can anyone in this region present a challenge for Sevier Co.? We shall see but it will be extra tough as the Smoky Bears return a stacked roster that is built to go after another Class 5A state championship.

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