Sequatchie County

With four starters returning, Sequatchie County’s offensive line should be a reliable group in Rusty McIntyre’s second season as coach of the Indians.

Head coach: Rusty McIntyre (4-7 here and overall)

Returning starters: 6 offensive; 4 defensive

Last year’s record: 4-7 overall, lost in Class 3A first round

Key players: Payton Campbell (6-1, 165) Sr. QB, Avery Headrick (6-1, 220) Sr. OL/DL, Evan Griffith (6-1, 260) Jr. OL/ DE, Brandon Presto (6-2, 300) Sr. OL/DL, Jackson Tate (5-11, 150) So. WR, Brayden Johnson (6-1, 188)

Sr. TE/LB, Kyle Shell (6-2,

305) Jr. OL/DL, Kane Bishop (5-9, 300) So. OL/DL, Braylon Long (5-9, 145) Jr. WR/DB

Season outlook: The Indians are loaded up front as a reliable and experienced offensive line with four returning starters will lead the way and provide time for the talented Campbell to help generate big plays. The dual-threat quarterback is capable of throwing for 200-plus yards or rushing for 100plus on any given night.

“Payton is an extreme competitor,” McIntyre said. “Last season he led our team in rushing, passing, touchdowns and tackles defensively. Payton is willing to do whatever it takes to win. So we will try our best to take what the defense is giving us, and if that means throwing it around more, then we will be comfortable doing that.” Sequatchie County’s coach is proud of how his players stayed focused and worked in the weight room this offseason, and McIntyre believes they will be much more physical and disciplined this season.

Johnson should be a versatile threat, including as a big target for Campbell. “Brayden is a guy who has played a lot of meaningful football for us,” McIntyre said. “Our kids look to him for leadership on both sides of the ball. Brandon Presto has been a starter on the O-line for several years now, and he also leads by example daily. Another player who also has played a lot of snaps for us is Avery Headrick. He switched from guard to center this year, and he and Brandon will both play on the D-line, too.”