Football edition: West Falcons to watch
Published 12:00 am Tuesday, August 21, 2018
Last season: 6-6 overall, lost first round of 3A state playoffs
3-2 North Piedmont Conference (3rd place)
Coach: Joe Nixon (4th year at West, 26-15), (7th year overall, 57-23)
Returning starters: 15. Returning lettermen: 32.
Falcons to Watch:
Zeek Biggers — Sophomore DL (6-4, 300) has the kind of size that can’t be taught.
JooJo Brush —Senior DB (5-9, 165) brings speed and experience to the secondary.
Fredrico Cruz —Junior PK (5-8, 155) is reliable. He booted three field goals and 38 PATs in 2017.
Daniel Durham — Senior LB (6-1, 215) made a name for himself in American Legion baseball this summer, but he also excels on the football field.
Reggie Everhart — Junior FS (5-10, 185) is expected to be a leader in the secondary.
Jonny Hassard — Junior OL (6-6, 260) is one of three big returning starters upfront who will protect Stolsworth and open holes for Perry and Dylan Sigmon.
Jalen Houston — Junior WR (5-8, 160) is one of the quickest people in the county. He has 15 career TD receptions to his credit.
Jaden Perry — Senior RB (5-7, 165) was part of a running back committee last season and produced 430 rushing yards. He figures to be the No. 1 option this time.
Payne Stolsworth — Senior QB (6-2, 195) is already one of a handful of players in county history to have two 2,000-yard passing seasons and has a chance to finish as West’s all-time passing leader. He’s thrown 48 TD passes. He’s also expected to handle punting duties.
Baiden Suddarth — Junior LB (6-1, 190) making a position transition after shining at defensive end a year ago.