Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
ROGERS HIGH MOUNTIES
2017 RECORD 5-6, 2-5 7A-West COACH Mike Loyd
RETURNING STARTERS 6 offense, 7 defense
KEY PLAYERS QB Hunter Loyd (Jr., 6-4, 190), TE Matthew Watson (Jr., 6-5, 215), OL R.J. Long (Jr., 6-2, 290), FB Casey Allred (Sr., 6-1, 215), OL Beau Zarate (Sr., 5-10, 275), WR/DB Wil Sims (Sr., 6-1, 170), WR Mason Ross (Jr., 5-10, 170), LB Tim Howard (Sr., 6-0, 190), DB/WR Coby Bailey (Jr., 6-0, 165).
THE SKINNY Loyd returns at quarterback, after throwing for more than 2,200 yards and 14 touchdowns as a sophomore. … Mike Loyd hopes playing as many as 15 sophomores at times last season pays dividends as they are now a year stronger and faster and accustomed to the rigors of the 7A-West. … The Mounties graduated only one starter from the offensive line, but senior Caleb Stanberry, who didn’t play a year ago, could also make an impact. … Long has already received Division II scholarship offers and another year of maturity could bring some D-1 offers, Loyd said. … Ross, Sims and Braden Gentry make up a receiving corps with plenty of speed, while Watson is a big target a tight end. … Several different backs will see action including junior Sammy Zamarron, Allred, Daniel Deleon and even Howard could see some time there. … Bailey should bring speed and athleticism as a receiver and at defensive back. … Howard and Nathan Hahn also brings experience on defense. … Sophomore Carter Cox (6-3, 290) should also add good depth on the line.
COACH SPEAK “This is the best group of young men we’ve had athletically since I’ve been here. The attitude’s good. We’ve got more depth than we’ve ever had. We’re faster than we’ve ever been and we’re bigger than we’ve ever been. It’s a whole different feeling. The kids got a little bounce. They’ve got a little confidence. I don’t know if that’ will equate to more wins, but I guarantee you we’re gonna be a heck of a lot more competitive.” — Paul Boyd • @NWAPaulB