Having seen a handful of Bainbridge practices this summer, and after talking to the coaches extensively about the players to watch this season, I can say this should be a great year for the Bearcats.

The quarterback competition is one of the most interesting aspects of this team. Jackson Wheeler and Quayde Hawkins are neck and neck for playing time. Wheeler has had the most reps, having played as the second string quarterback last season and coming in for a few minutes at the end of a few games.

Hawkins has shot up in height like a cornstalk. It’s really nice to see his body growing, and as the coaches say, his confidence is growing tall with it. I look forward to see what he can do un-der center this season.

Deyon Bouie is just a freshman quarterback, but I saw him make some incredible plays on the eighth grade team last year. The last time I saw a player that looked that explosive was Rashad Broadnax and Dameon Pierce. We all know what Pierce went on to do for Bainbridge, and Broadnax will fill those shoes and carry the rock hopefully just as well.

Speaking of running the ball, Caleb McDowell is also set up to have a big season. He rushed for 238 yards last year and banged in three touchdowns.

He’ll be sharing the backfield with Rashad Broadnax this season, and I fully expect the two to make some big runs that will have fans’ jaws on the floor.

On defense, hearing the coaches talk about the linebackers and defensive backfield has me eager to see how they shake out. The overarching theme of this year’s defensive secondary is speed. Apparently these players are quick and can lay a lick on you before you know what happened.

Three seniors, Randy Fillingame, Anthony Brooks and Bryce Worthy, will play linebacker this season. That’s a lot of upperclassman leadership right there. These guys will need to lead by example on the field, in the weight room, in the classroom and wherever else they can, be-cause it’s not often you have a core nucleus of experienced seniors on a defense like this.

Once again, Bouie’s name comes up as a player to watch on defense. He’ll play cornerback. McDowell is returning to the starting safety position as well. Athletes. Pure and simple.

I hope the crowd will turn out for Fan Day this Friday and travel to Lowndes County for a scrimmage next Friday. Then, we can get really excited for the season opener on Aug. 17 against our neighbors over in Seminole County.

Go Bearcats!