Last season: 3-8 overall, missed playoffs

2-3 North Piedmont Conference (4th place)

Coach: Joe Pinyan (6th year at Carson, 26-33), (16th year overall, 126-69)

Returning starters: 14. Returning lettermen: 21

 

Cougars to  Watch:

Robert Barringer — Junior OL (6-0, 190) is a high-energy guy who plays all the way to the whistle.

Jerry Cipres — Senior  RB (5-9, 180) topped 100 rushing yards in win against North Iredell in 2017 and had more than 100 on opening night this season.

Hunter Courtney — Junior RB (5-11, 175) had 283 rushing yards in first seven games before suffering broken leg.

A.J. Jackson — Rangy junior WR (6-3, 190) figures to be Carson’s top pass-catching threat.

Nick Klein — Senior  OL (6-1, 275) brings beef and experience to the center position and will be an all-county candidate.

Josh McCurry — Senior  LB (5-10, 165) is following in footsteps of two brothers who were standout linebackers for Carson.

CP Pyle — Sophomore RB (5-6, 150) was a jayvee standout and boosts Carson’s team speed. If everyone stays healthy, running back will be a real strength.

Justin Smith — Senior QB (6-3, 185) has size and is athletic. Carson won’t throw much, but he’s capable of making big plays in the passing game.

Jacob Taylor —Senior SPUR (6-2, 191) has added pounds and is a good candidate to be Carson’s leading tackler.

Teolyn Woodruff —Senior DL (6-3, 230) is tough and explosive and might pile up sacks for the Cougars.  He had four on opening night.