Jamboree helps teams get ready

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is the first of a four-part series previewing Aiken County high school football teams for the 2005 season.

Eight area high school football teams capped their preseason preparations by participating in the Aiken County Jamboree at Midland Valley High on Aug. 12.

Two schools, Midland Valley and South Aiken, begin their seasons with home games Friday night. Silver Bluff, North Augusta, Ridge Spring-Monetta, Wagener-Salley and Aiken High begin their seasons Aug. 26.

SOUTH AIKEN HIGH SCHOOL

Last season: South Aiken finished the year with a 5-7 record after losing to Byrnes in the first round of the Class AAAA Division-II playoffs.

The outlook: The Thorough-breds return a strong senior class. The defensive line will be the key to South Aiken's season. Depth is a question on both sides of the ball, but if the team can avoid injuries, coach Dan Pippin might guide the Thoroughbreds to the playoffs for the third time in four years.

Player to watch: Defensive end Dekoda Watson was a constant threat to opposing offenses last season. The senior also is adept at blocking punts and field goals. This year, Watson will see a lot of duty at tailback when the Thoroughbreds have the ball. A three-year starter, Watson now has plenty of experience to go along with his speed and tackling ability. Several SEC schools are interested in him.

Game to watch: South Aiken meets Aiken in the final game of the regular season Friday, Nov. 4. The showdown takes place at South Aiken as the Thoroughbreds look to avenge last season's 21-15 loss.

MIDLAND VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

Last season: Midland Valley's only victory in 10 games last season came on the road at Allendale-Fairfax.

The outlook: Midland Valley has a history of playing bigger schools with bigger programs. That holds true this season as the Class AAA Mustangs will play three Class AAAA schools. Although it's hard on the win column, playing bigger local opponents makes for less travel and better preparation for region games. Sixth-year head coach Rick Knight wants to return to the playoffs after last season's 1-9 disaster, but overcoming the loss of 13 seniors will be a challenge.

Player to watch: Tailback T.J. Rich will try to carry the team on his shoulders this season. The tough back will be put to the test against some talented defensive lines. According to Knight, the 6-0, 250-pound senior is getting attention from some major colleges.

Game to watch: The Mustangs fell 20-19 to Batesburg-Leesville at home last season. Midland Valley will be coming off a bye week and looking for revenge on the road when the two teams meet Sept. 23.

Reach Billy Byler at (803) 648-1395, ext. 106 or billy.byler@augustachronicle.com.