Pigskin Roundup 2015 | Page 68

CLASS 5A REGION 6 ANNISTON BULLDOGS The Anniston Bulldogs are poised for a bounce back season in 2015. The Bulldogs were a very young team in 2014 but a lot of the players that picked up valuable experience last year are returning this season. Anniston returns three of their five starting linemen. As far as the quarterback position goes, there are several players up for the job. The good thing is that no matter who earns the spot, the other contenders have experience at other positions. Tae Miller served as Anniston’s QB through spring practice, but in the previous two seasons, he has been a big-play wide receiver. Mario Dobbins will also get a look at quarterback. He is also a starting defensive back and has the ability to play wide receiver. Sophomore Savion Bethune and Chris Beard will also get the chance to lead the Bulldog offense. Anniston has a deep pool of running backs. Proven veterans like L.J. Heard and Elvin Montgomery will anchor the rotation. Transfer RB Jeremy McCants (sat out last season) will also likely be a bright spot for the team. Aniston also returns talented and experienced WR Hakeem Ross to lead the receiving corps. Perhaps the biggest addition to the team is new offensive coordinator Shannon Felder. The former Donoho head coach spent 11 seasons (2004-14) with the Falcons. Felder led Donoho to 72 wins and eight playoff appearances. His knowledge and experience with the offensive will help balance with head coach Eddie Bullock’s defensive background. On the field defensively, the Bulldogs will rely on inside linebacker Jay Parker. Elijah TAE MILLER Quarterback SCHEDULE 8/28 Handley....................Away 9/04 Mortimer Jordan..........Home* 9/11 Hayden.....................Away 9/18 Lincoln.....................Home* 9/25 Open 10/02 Springville.................Away* 10/09 Moody......................Home* 10/16 St. Clair County...........Away* 10/23 Alexandria.................Home* 10/30 Fort Payne.................Home Jackson started last season at defensive tackle. Head coach Eddie Bullock says Jackson has improved his strength and quickness this offseason so he will move to defensive end to give the Bulldogs a more potent pass rush. Tarik Woods (DL) is also back on the gridiron after a short hiatus. The secondary is loaded with experienced talent. Chris Beard, Rashard Harris and Mario Dobbins give Anniston muchneeded versatility on the backend. Expect the Bulldogs to look like a much-improved team in 2015. COACH EDDIE BULLOCK... “The main thing is trying to develop chemistry and getting everyone on the same page. We’ve worked really hard in the weight room and conditioning. Our guys are working extremely hard to get ready for this season.”