J.J. MCCLAIN MUSTANGS

Class 4-A, Region 4

2007 Results: 8-4 overall, 4-2 in district - lost in 2nd round to Ripley

Key Losses: LB Robert Hogan (Delta St. signee), DB/WR Glenn Washington

Head coach: Stanley Spell (entering 16th season)

McClain Offense: Opponents of McClain will have a pretty good idea of where the Mustangs will generate their offense. It will come from the legs of Kevin Smith. The running back went for more than 1,500 yards last season. There will need to be improvement on the offensive line and with the mental approach of the offense as a whole. If they accomplish that, they'll be in business.

McClain Defense: The defense was nasty, in a good way, for McClain last season. This unit gave up just 11 points per game. But the team lost a lot of its main guys, as defensive tackle Sedric Hogan will be the only headliner returning. Coach Spell has the task of finding quality replacements to have his defense performing at a high level again.

McClain Notable Games: Huge district games will come against Velma Jackson and Charleston, but if you need a rivalry game to highlight, that will be in week two when McClain hosts Marshall.

Coach's Key To Victory: For a program that hasn't enjoyed much success in its history, 2007 was a good year as they finally won a playoff game. McClain hopes to build on that momentum, and create a winning attitude within the kids as they prepare for a new year. The talents of running back Smith will help keep the wins coming. 

McClain Schedule

Aug. 29        Loyd Star                     Home

Sept. 5        Marshall                        Home

Sept. 12      George                         Away

Sept. 19      East Side*                   Home

Sept. 26     Williams Sullivan           Away

Oct. 3         Humphreys County*      Away

Oct. 10        Palmer*                        Home

Oct. 17        Elzy*                             Home

Oct. 24       Velma Jackson*           Away

Oct. 31       Charleston*                  Away

*denotes district game