REGION 2-4A OUTLOOK

Team to beat: Anderson County has won two straight region titles with back-to-back perfect regular seasons. The Mavericks lost most of their offensive contributions from last year but return a rock-solid defense.

Watch out for: East Hamilton did not click offensively last season, but its defense was tough. The Hurricanes roster is deep, and the track record of new coach Grant Reynolds is strong, wherever he has been.

Best game: Howard will open region play against Anderson County on Sept. 20 at the Hustlin’ Tigers’ new stadium. They have plenty of explosiveness, and a big victory at home could provide great momentum for the rest of the region slate.

Dream schedule: East Ridge hosts three of its last four region games, which could help the Pioneers climb the ladder late. And the last region contest is at Hixson, which has struggled the past two seasons.

Nightmare schedule: Central will play its first three games on the road before opening at home against Baylor in Week 4. The Purple Pounders travel to potent Notre Dame and Tyner the first two weeks.

Players to watch: Anderson County junior Russell Lindsay had 10 sacks last season, while junior linebacker Stone Cummins led the team in tackles. Central running back Hunter Jones is being recruited by NCAA Division I schools and one of the fastest in town. East Hamilton’s defense could be a major force led by linebacker Aidan Holt along with defensive backs Cade Meeks and Conner Thornburg. East Ridge senior linebacker Jalen Boykin has led the team the past three seasons in tackles, while Marquan Acklin and Keanu Johnson are going to be dangerous on offense and in the secondary. Hixson sophomore receiver Reginald Hunter has star potential and will play linebacker, too.