RICHLAND RANGERS

Class 3-A, Region 6

2007 Results: 4-6 overall, 2-4 district

Key Losses: MLB/FB Chance Startwell, OLB/RB Trey Willis, QB/OLB Trace Nelson

Head Coach: Lance Canoy (entering 2nd season, 1st as head coach)

Coach's 2008 Outlook

Rangers Offense: The Rangers hope that they can score at least 21 points per game.  They feel scoring 21 points plus the ability to control the ball for 4-5 minutes each possession will give them more chances to win games.  After using several different offenses last year due to injuries, the Rangers will start out with the spread offense this year.  The offense struggled at times last year, but with Josh Bennett returning at quarterback, the Rangers hope to be a more experienced, disciplined group. Coach Canoy would love to line up and play smash mouth football.  RB Joseph Thurman and RT Mario Rodriguez are two guys that can do that.

Rangers Defense: The division is dominated by running teams.  The Rangers implemented the 5-man front last year, but this year's personnel dictates more of a 4-4 split defense.  Giving up the big play hurt the Rangers last year, and they must eliminate it this year.   Instead of giving up the big plays, the defense needs to make the big plays.  The defense held several teams to under 100 yards, but others thrashed the defense.  Consistency is something the Rangers need more than anything on defense.

Rangers Notable Games: The Richland and McLaurin game will determine the winner of the Annual Byrd Cook Trophy.  Don't forget about Florence, because the Rangers won't.  This one has always been a heated rivalry.  Anything goes in this no holds barred match.

Rangers Coach's Key To Victory: Richland's goal is to compete for a district championship.  Three teams in their division have won a state championship since 2000.  That means the road to the playoffs will not be an easy one.  Coach Lance Canoy is the 5th head coach in the last 4 years at Richland.  Consistency could be the key here.

Rangers Schedule

Aug. 22                Jamboree              Home

Aug. 29                Florence                 Home

Sept. 5                 Wesson                  Away

Sept. 12               McLaurin                Away

Sept. 19               Magee*                  Home

Sept. 26               Pisgah                   Home

Oct. 3                   Bailey*                    Away

Oct. 10                Crystal Springs*     Home

Oct. 17                Hazlehurst*              Away

Oct. 24                Raymond*               Home

Oct. 31                Collins*                    Away

*denotes district game