High school football: What to look for in Class 2A Regions 2, 3
Here’s a look at what to expect from Midlands teams and players in Class 2A Regions 2 and 3:
CLASS 2A REGION 2
I will only mention Batesburg-Leesville, since it is the only Midlands team in this region. I believe the Panthers are the favorite for Region 2. Despite breaking in a new quarterback, they return one of the region’s top players in running back Terrance Wilson.
CLASS 2A REGION 3
PRESEASON TEAM PREDICTIONS
1. Newberry Bulldogs – The Bulldogs return one of the region’s top players at quarterback and are loaded in the skills positions.
2. Fairfield Central Griffins – Like Newberry, this team returns its quarterback but will have big shoes to fill at running back on offense and several spots on defense.
3. Keenan Raiders – Coaching change and the transfer of its quarterback will impact this team in 2015, but it still will be competitive.
4. Pelion Panthers – New coach, new attitude with a new system. Look for an improved product on the field and a team that will battle for playoff position.
5. Mid-Carolina Rebels – Experience at quarterback, two solid running backs on offense and an aggressive blue collar mentality of football.
6. Columbia Capitals – Will be fortunate to win one region game. This team is on its third coach in three years.
7. Eau Claire Shamrocks – More struggles for the Shamrocks; will go winless in region play.
10 TO WATCH IN REGION 2 AND 3
Demarcus Gilmore, T, Newberry – Lines up at TE but this kid is a tackle prospect; aggressive and excellent in run blocking, holding his blocks and thrusting his opponent down field.
Ocatvious Green, DE, Pelion – Rangy player who can play on the edge with his hand down or drop at outside linebacker and play in space.
Tray Green, RB, Mid-Carolina – One of the Midlands’ most under rated players; solid prospect.
Dayrun Keith, WR, Pelion – Multiposition sophomore is one of the Midlands’ top players regardless of classification.
Stanley McManus, QB, Fairfield Central – Had a solid year as a sophomore and will be key to Griffins’ success in 2015.
Devan Padgett, OL-DL, Batesburg-Leesville – Big trenchman is an impact player on both sides of the football.
Teion Thomas, QB-DB, Eau Claire – Versatile athlete for the Shamrocks can impact both sides of the ball.
Thurman Trapp, CB, Keenan – One of the Midlands’ top cover corners.
Yafari Werts, QB, Newberry – One of Region 3’s top players returns to lead the Bulldogs. Committed to Georgia Southern.
Terrance Wilson, RB, Batesburg-Leesville – Wilson is one of the state’s top running backs; lethal with the ball in his hands.
This story was originally published August 2, 2015 at 9:21 PM.