Hendersonville quarterback Brett Coker hands off to running back Reggis Harris against Hunters Lane in Nashville, TN on Fri. Oct. 28, 2016.

Hendersonville’s season came to a close on Friday with a convincing 41-7 victory at Hunters Lane.

The Commandos did not get the necessary help to clinch a Class 5A playoff spot, so Hendersonville finishes with a 7-3 record.

Three things from the Commandos’ victory:

Quick work

Hendersonville took care of things early, building a 27-0 lead throughout the first two quarters and never looking back. Luke Carver capped off a seven-play, 64-yard opening drive with a 4-yard touchdown run.

The Commando defense played a huge part as well, with two interception returns for touchdowns. On the ensuing Hunters Lane possession, Clay Richard picked off a Sylvester Buford pass and took it back for a 72-yard score. Later in the half, Eric Tilson made a read on a fake field goal to return an interception for a 90-yard score.

In the second half, junior Anthony Hughes got involved with two scores, first on a two-yard touchdown run, and later on the receiving end of a 31-yard pass from backup quarterback Justin Ernst.

Hendersonville’s Derek Kincaid rushes against Hunters Lane in Nashville, TN on Fri. Oct. 28, 2016.

Odd team out

Despite the victory and a 7-3 overall record, Hendersonville drew the short end of the stick in Region 6-5A, finishing in fifth place and out of the TSSAA playoffs. The Commandos were counting on help from a Hillsboro loss to Beech, but it did not come. Two of Hendersonville losses in their region, to Cane Ridge and Beech, came by only one point.

“A game like this can be a huge distraction when you don’t control your own fate,” head coach Bruce Hatfield said. “They hung in there and gave up a little bit of yardage, but we had so good scores on special teams and defense so we’re proud of our guys. Through some of the adversity that we’ve had to respond to, I’m just glad to see them hang in there and that they kept doing the things that we’ve asked them to do. “

Hendersonville’s Clay Richard goes up for an interception that he returned for a touchdown against Hunters Lane in Nashville, TN on Fri. Oct. 28, 2016.

Seniors depart

The win marks the end of the career for a Hendersonville senior class of 27 players. The group were part of teams that amassed a combined 27-7 record over three years of varsity football, with two playoff wins.

“I wouldn’t trade these guys for the world,” senior tight end Jordan Amis said. “They’re my brothers. I’ve been with them since seventh grade and freshman year, and I just love these guys. This season’s not an upset. It’s just football. There’s only one team that can win it on a high note and that’s to win state. I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of this program and I love it here.”

The Creek Wood Red Hawks were hoping to extend their season for another week.

Instead, they’ll be sitting at home this postseason, as their playoff aspirations were cut short in a 33-24 loss to Northwest Friday. The victory put the Vikings at 4-1 in Region 6-4A play (6-4 overall), while Creek Wood finishes the season on the outside looking in.

“We were definitely short-handed tonight,” said Creek Wood coach Chuck Daniel.

“We got short-handed as the game went on. The kids kept getting hurt, but we battled.”

Here’s three takeaways from the game:

Ground and pound: The Vikings did the majority of their damage on the ground, running for 326 yards as a team, as well as hitting pay dirt three times rushing. Quinton Poole once again put in a solid effort for his curtain call, running for 142 yards and a score.

Big potential on special teams: The score could have been a lot worse in favor of Northwest if not for a couple of mistimed penalties. Shatar McClay took two punt returns to the house for a pair of touchdowns. However, both were called back because there was a block in the back on both plays.

Injury bug bites hard: For Creek Wood, it was tough going into the game as they were already missing Timmy Randolph. As the game went on, the injuries on the sidelines began to pile up, and the banged up Red Hawks just could not hang for the rest of the game.

The Vikings now await whoever comes out of Region 5-4A and will play the third-place team next Friday. The Red Hawks season comes to a close at 4-6.

Other scores: Dickson County 31 West Creek 0

Reach Andy Simmons on Twitter @AndyDHTN

The Creek Wood Red Hawks race onto the field before their game against Northwest

FAIRVIEW – Harpeth hung with Fairview for one quarter, but then turnovers and penalties cost the Indians in a 56-11 loss to Fairview in the battle for Region 6-3A Friday.

Dylan Capps of Harpeth High School scrambles away from Fairview High School players in the second half. Fairview won the game 56-11 to go to 10-0 on the season.

Undefeated Fairview (10-0, 6-0) won Region 6-3A by defeating second-place Harpeth (8-2, 4-2).

Here are five takeaways to the game:

Great opening drive

The Indians the opening kickoff and drove 67 yards in just five plays to score on their first possession.

It was a big play that got them in the end zone. Quarterback Walker Weatherly dropped back to throw, scrambled out of trouble, and threw it deep to Drake Fullum. Fullum hauled it in and outran the Fairview secondary to the end zone for a 63-yard scoring play.

After the kickoff, Harpeth’s defense forced Fairview into a rare three-and-out on its first possession on offense. The Yellow Jackets were forced to punt after failing to pick up a first down.

But after the Indians punted it back to them, the Yellow Jackets only needed one play on their next possession to tie it. Hunter Caldwell went 74 yards for a touchdown run and tied the game.

The Harpeth High School Indians prepare to take the field for their away game against the Fairview High School Yellow Jackets Friday Oct, 28.

Mistakes costly

After Fairview tied the game, the Indians drove back downfield and were inside the Fairview 20. But Weatherly’s pass into the end zone was tipped and intercepted by Fairview’s Blake Russell.

It was the first of three interceptions that Fairview had, and all ended drives.

Harpeth also had six penalties for 40 yards, many of them false starts which moved them back on offense as they were driving on Fairview.

“We made some mistakes early that are not like us,” Harpeth coach Doug Loope said. “Maybe the significance of a region championship might have burdened the kids a little bit more than it should have. They didn’t react well to the pressure.”

Harpeth coach Doug Loope watches his team warm up before their game against Fairview High School.

Weatherly on target

Other than the interceptions – two of which were tipped by defenders – Weatherly completed 10 of 20 passes and had 219 yards. The deep pass worked well for Harpeth. Six of Weatherly’s completions were for 15 or more yards.

Weatherly went down with a shoulder injury after being tackled in the third quarter. He went out for one play, came back in to complete one pass and pick up a first down, then exited the game for the remainder to ensure that he wasn’t further injured.

“He’s a good quarterback, we just need to keep him healthy,” Loope said.

Fairview run game hard to stop

The Indians struggled all game to stop the tandem of Hunter Caldwell (184 yards, two touchdowns) and Jake Beathard (179 yards, two touchdowns).

Playoff bound

Harpeth finished as the third seed from Region 6-3A after Cheatham County forfeited its Week 11 win over East Hickman for playing an ineligible player. Harpeth plays at Goodpasture at 7 p.m. Friday in the opening round of the TSSAA Class AAA playoffs.

For Williamson County football programs, it will be a busy November.

Ten high school football programs from Williamson County qualified for the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association playoffs. Nine will compete Friday night in the opening round. A 10th — Brentwood Academy — has a bye for the opening round.

Here are four things to know about Williamson County teams in the postseason:

Centennial running back Zyon Lee (24)

Four region/district champions in county

Centennial (9-1), Fairview (10-0) and Independence (10-0) all won region championships, and Battle Ground Academy claimed a district title.

Fairview won the Region 6-3A title with a win over Harpeth on Friday night. Centennial clinched the Region 6-5A title with its win over Henry County.

Independence won its second straight Region 5-5A title with a second consecutive undefeated regular season.

BGA (7-3) won the Division II-A, District 2 title after going 3-0 in league play.

Independence’s Troy Henderson (21)

Three teams can defend titles

All three Williamson County programs that won TSSAA state titles in 2015 will get a chance to defend their crowns.

Brentwood Academy enters the postseason as the No. 2-seed from the Division II-AA East/Middle region and has a bye for the opening round. The Eagles play the Father Ryan-McCallie winner on Nov. 11 in their first game defending the Division II-AA title.

Defending 5A state champion Independence hosts Gallatin (6-4) on Friday to open the postseason. Independence’s title defense comes with a retooled offense after graduation depleted last year’s offensive lineup.

Ravenwood (5-5) enters the 6A playoffs with a new coach and several new faces. The Raptors travel to Houston (4-5) in the opening round. It is the first time the program has traveled in the opening round since a 2008 loss to Hendersonville.

Fairview’s Hunter Caldwell (23)

Two undefeated seasons

Fairview and Independence are two of eight Middle Tennessee programs that enter the postseason with an unblemished record. Fairview’s perfect regular season was the program’s first since 1979. Independence’s, though, was its second in as many years.

Brian Coleman

Summit is a first-timer

Summit will appear in its first high school football playoffs Friday in the program’s sixth year. The Spartans (7-3) play at Region 6-5A champion Cane Ridge (10-0) in the opening round of the Class 5A football playoffs.

Summit, behind coach Brian Coleman, also finished with a winning record for the first time in school history.

Reach Tom Kreager at 615-259-8089 and on Twitter @Kreager.

Williamson County in the football playoffs

Ten Williamson County football programs advanced to the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association playoffs. 

All game times are 7 p.m. local time.

Class 3A

East Nashville (4-6) at Fairview (10-0))

Class 4A

Chattanooga Central (3-7) at Page (6-3)

Class 5A

Kirby (4-6) at Brentwood (6-4)

Bolton (5-5) at Centennial (9-1)

Gallatin (6-4) at Independence (10-0)

Summit (7-3) at Cane Ridge (10-0)

Class 6A

Germantown (3-7) at Franklin (8-2)

Ravenwood (5-5) at Houston (4-5)

Division II-A

King’s Academy (4-6) at Battle Ground Academy (7-3)

Division II-AA

Brentwood Academy (7-2)*

*Has a bye this week

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Yale’s Jack Montague, right, defends against SMU guard Shake Milton on Nov. 22, 2015.

HARTFORD, Conn. — Lawyers for former Yale basketball captain Jack Montague are seeking a court order that would allow him to return to class while he fights his expulsion for what the university says was sexual misconduct.

The senior point guard was thrown out of Yale in February after a university committee upheld a sexual assault complaint.

Montague says the October 2014 sexual encounter was consensual, and no criminal charges were brought.

He filed a federal lawsuit in June, arguing the school misled and coerced the accuser into cooperating in the complaint. The lawsuit and the motion filed Monday afternoon also allege the school wanted to make an example of the popular athlete.

“He has already suffered, and continues to suffer, irreparable injury — his ability to complete his education and receive the degree he had all but earned prior to his expulsion hangs in the balance, and his employment prospects are dim,” attorney Max Stern wrote in the new court filing. “Only immediate relief in the form of full reinstatement as a student at Yale can rectify this damage and restore him to the position he was in prior to Yale’s unlawful conduct.”

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Yale spokesman Tom Conroy called the lawsuit “factually inaccurate and legally baseless” and said the school’s attorneys will oppose the motion.

The complaint was brought in 2015 after a friend of the woman went to a school official who ensures Yale’s compliance with Title IX, the federal law designed to prevent gender discrimination in education.

The lawsuit alleges the Title IX officer brought the complaint despite being told the woman did not believe Montague heard her when she tried to end their sexual encounter. The woman cooperated only after the Title IX officer informed her that Montague had previously received counseling after an incident involving another woman, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit alleges the school didn’t tell her that case involved him shoving a paper plate down someone’s shirt following a drunken argument outside a pizza parlor.

The school countered that the woman was never “affirmatively misled by the defendants into participating in a formal complaint process initiated by Yale.”

The lawsuit is scheduled to go to trial no earlier than February.

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Demontez Coleman will be one of the key contributors returning to this year’s Dickson County team.

There’s no looking back for the Dickson County Cougars, as they’ve left behind the memories of last seaon and are focused on what’s to come for the 2016-2017 year. The season officially started Monday with the first practice, and Cougars coach Jason Tigert is optimistic about the weeks to come.

“This team has a tremendous energy level,” said Tigert.

“They have a high IQ, and are great student athletes to be around. They seem to love being in the gym, and what we’re most excited about is we have great energy and positive energy.”

Here’s a couple of things Cougar fans can look forward going into the season.

Who’s returning? Demontez Coleman returns for his junior year at the point guard spot and will be looked upon to help run the offense in the backcourt.

“His experience and vocal leadership is very important to us,” said Tigert.

Jacob Murphree, Trey Wiedman, and Darian Burns also return. All four have been given a couple of extra days rest due to them playing football.

What about district play? The District 11 slate will once again be challenging. Summit and Independence will be seen as the top tier teams in the district, and will be looking to once again challenge for the crown.

“This league is a very good league with great players and good coaching,” said Tigert.

“Anybody can beat anybody on a given night. You’ve got to be able to defend the three-point line. The Williamson County teams shoot it very well.”

Games to look forward to? 

Nov. 7 scrimmage vs. Creek Wood.

Nov. 17 at Shelbyville (Hall of Fame Game).

Dec. 13. at Summit

Dec. 28-30 Above the Rim Tournament at Hickman County.

Jan. 10 at Independence.

Jan. 20 vs. Summit.

Jan. 14 at Lebanon (Game played at Wilson Central).

Feb. 7 vs. Independence.

Reach Andy Simmons on Twitter @AndyDHTN

NASHVILLE — Stratford came into Friday’s game as one of a handful of undefeated teams in the state, but the Bobcats took the Spartans to the limit before coming up just a little short 21-16.

Micah Escue runs an interception back for a touchdown Friday night.

“We may have lost the game, but I really feel like this was one of the best games we’ve played all year,” Greenbrier coach John Elmore said. “The fact that it came when we really had nothing left to play for than pride also showed us a lot.

“Defensively, I think this was our best outing, holding an explosive team like Stratford to just three scores and having a chance late to win the game is all we can ask as coaches.”

Greenbrier had a 3-0 lead at halftime and increased that lead in the third quarter, when Micah Escue intercepted a pass and returned it 26 yards for the score to make it 10-0.

Stratford would score the next three touchdowns to give the Spartans a 21-10 advantage, but the Bobcats cut it to less than a touchdown when quarterback Bailey Young took it in from one yard out to make it 21-16.

Greenbrier had one last chance, driving with the ball in the closing minutes, but a couple of untimely penalties ended the drive and the Spartans hung on for the win.

So here are five things that almost had the Bobcats handing the Spartans their only loss of the season Friday night.

1 – Greenbrier defense gave the Bobcats chance to pull off the upset. Coming in, Greenbrier knew that big plays had been a trademark of the Stratford season. The Bobcats were able to shut out the Spartans in the first half.

2 – Third quarter was the downfall for the Bobcats. The Spartans scored all 21 of their points in the third quarter.

3 – The Greenbrier offensive line opened holes all night for the running game. The offensive line goes greatly unnoticed most games, according to Elmore, but Friday the undersized Bobcats went toe-to-toe with one of the best defensive lines in the state and nearly came away with the win.

4 – Nick Davis returned from injury and led the team in rushing. He had a 26-yard kickoff return and led the way on the defensive side of the ball, coming up with an interception for a touchdown.

5 – Greenbrier was nearly clean, committing just one turnover and only 25 yards in penalties, giving the Bobcats that chance to pull off the upset. Stratford lost two fumbles, threw an interception for a touchdown and had 14 penalties for 120 yards.

See how our county teams did Friday with our Week 11 roundup.

Jo Byrns 14, Monterey 8

MONTEREY – The Jo Byrns football team made the long trip to Monterey pay off Friday when the Red Devils handed Wildcats a 14-8 loss to end the season on a four-game winning streak.

“This was probably our best overall game that we’ve played all season,” Jo Byrns coach Tom Adkins said. “We had to overcome a couple of injuries because our middle linebacker went out on the first play, and our quarterback didn’t play in the second half.

“That’s both of our play-callers on each side of the ball, but our guys just fought their way through and came away with the win.”

Jo Byrns will miss the playoffs, but Friday night’s win gave the Red Devils a 4-4 record in Region 5-1A and 5-5 overall.

Tyran Douglas had his best game of the season. He caught a 75-yard pass for a touchdown, intercepted a pass on defense, gathered a fumble and returned it for a 45-yard touchdown. Mikey Chennault had two rushes for 89 yards to go for over 1,000 yards for the second season in a row.

“We talked to our guys before the game, and we treated this like our senior night and playoff game because we knew that this was it for us,” Adkins said. “These guys just never gave up, and they were motivated to close the season out with a win.”

Jo Byrns got on the board first when Wyatt Green hit Douglas in stride for a 75-yard touchdown and then Chennault added the 2-point conversion to give the Red Devils an 8-0 lead.

Monterey answered and tied the game before the halftime break, but on the Wildcats’ second play of the second half, Douglas picked up the loose ball and took it 45 yards for the touchdown.

That’s all the Red Devils would need as they hung on for the 14-8 victory.

“This was a good win, but what stood out more than anything tonight was our last drive,” Adkins said. “We didn’t score on the drive, but we got the ball with 7:56 remaining in the game and held the ball for 7:55, leaving them only one second.”

Cascade 28, East Robertson 27

CROSS PLAINS – The East Robertson football team nearly pulled off the upset Friday when the Indians went for the win after their final score, but they came up just short and lost a heartbreaker 28-27.

“This one was hard to take because I really thought we had this one,” East Robertson coach Chad Broadrick said. “We’ve had three games this year where just one or two mental mistakes proved to be the difference in the game and that was the case again tonight.”

East Robertson (2-8, 1-6 4-2A) got on the board first when Robert Honeycutt was on the receiving end of a 30-yard screen pass from Cameron Swift to make it 7-0.

Cascade tied the game on the next possession, then the Indians were able to take back the lead when Honeycutt got his second touchdown of the game, this one a rush from five yards out to make it 14-7.

Swift took matters into his own hands for the next score, rambling 75 yards to give the Indians a 21-7 advantage.

Cascade returned the ensuing kickoff for a touchdown and then added another touchdown just before the break to make it 21-21 at halftime.

The Wildcats took the lead in the third quarter, going up 28-21, but East Robertson answered when Swift called his own number on the quarterback sneak from two yards out to make it 28-27.

Cascade jumped off-sides on the extra point, so Broadrick decided to go for the win and the 2-point conversion, but Cascade was able to get the stop and held on for the one-point victory.

Goodpasture 56, White House Heritage 36

MADISON – If football fans liked a back-and-forth, high-scoring football game, then Friday’s contest between White House Heritage and Goodpasture was their kind of game, according to Patriots coach Hunter Hicks.

The Cougars were able to turn it on in during the second half and came away with the 56-36 win.

“From the outset, this was a fun game to play in and be a part of, so I can only imagine what it was like from the stands,” Hicks said. “We would score and they would answer. It was just one big play after another.

“It was like two big heavy-weights just getting in the middle of the ring and slugging it out. They just got the last few blows tonight.”

Michael McEwing got the game started off the right way for Heritage, returning the opening kickoff 73 yards for the touchdown, but the Cougars answered to tie the game 7-7.

Quarterback Austin Gunter connected with receiver Nick Demarais for 26-yard touchdown, but Goodpasture again answered to tie the game 14-14.

Antoine Eddings got the next score from 12 yards out, but again, the Cougars answered tying the score 21-21.

Heritage failed to score on its next possession, but that didn’t stop Goodpasture as the Cougars again scored just before halftime, making it 28-21.

Gunter and Demarais connected for the second time in the third quarter, this time from 18 yards for the touchdown, and Tommy Baker scored from seven yards out for the final Heritage score, but the Cougars continued to hit big plays and went on for the 56-36 victory.

“I thought we had a good first half. The second half just got away from us tonight,” Hicks said. “They are a very explosive team, and we were never able to get our running game going tonight, so we weren’t able to slow the game down.

“Regardless, I’m sure it was entertaining for everyone here, I just wish we could’ve been on the other end of the score.”

Sammy Earheart looks for running room.

Middle School teams showcase talent in the jamboree and look ahead to the regular season.

Springfield girls 9, White House Heritage 2

It was obvious that Springfield took a step forward in the offseason, but questions about Heritage came out of the first game of the day Saturday.

The Lady Patriots have won the tournament for the past six seasons, so the loss came as quite a shock to some.

“Right now we’re just not very good,” Heritage coach Rett Roach said. “I’ll take the blame for all of our offensive woes right now because I’ve only been with the team for a week, but they have to play with intensity too.

“There’s only two ways we can go from here. We’re either going to work hard and get better as a team, or they can choose to walk away, but I don’t anticipate any of our girls taking the second way out. They all know that we have some tough work ahead of us, but we have what it takes, we just have to work hard each and every day.”

White House Heritage boys 20, Coopertown 8

The second game was between last year’s boys champion, Coopertown, and a White House Heritage boys team that had a disappointing season last year.

The Patroits showed they had plans to compete for the top spot this season, beating the Eagles 20-8.

“So far I think we’ve looked pretty good,” Heritage coach Chance Ballard said. “I want us to play with a little more aggressiveness but still play under control, but it we can do that each and every game then I like our chances this year.”

Coopertown coach Chris Farris said that the loss of 12 players, including every starter from last year’s championship team, has had a profound effect on this team.

“We’ve got some talent on our team, they’re just inexperienced,” Farris said. “This is a brand new team from top to bottom and it may take a little while for this to come together, but I have no doubt that it will.”

Coopertown girls 9, E. Robertson 2

The East Robertson girls basketball team was in a rebuilding phase last season while Coopertown finished in a tie for fourth, so both the Lady Indians and the Lady Eagles are hoping for a better finish this year than they had last season.

Even though East Robertson showed improvement, according to coach Andrea Mills, Coopertown took the win Saturday 9-2.

“We’re still young and a little inexperienced, but we’ve got some eighth graders on this year’s team that have been with me for a while, and I’m seeing some positive signs,” Mills said. “We’re still going to have to work on some fundamentals, but we’re not starting from scratch, so we’re heads and shoulders ahead of where we were last year at this time.”

Coopertown coach Katie Head is in her first year as head coach, but she said she likes how her team has responded so far.

“Getting to see them in a true game setting was also refreshing because they handled it so well,” Head said. “We’ve got good size and speed and we showed today that we could handle ourselves on the court, so I can’t wait for the season to get underway.”

East Robertson boys 22, Jo Byrns 18

Saturday’s jamboree might have been an exhibition for most teams, but anytime Jo Byrns and East Robertson are on the same court, things are going to be competitive.

The Indians may have edged the Red Devils, 22-18, but both teams showed they could hit the 3-pointer, as the two traded the lead several times.

Both teams looked ready to make a deep runs this season in the middle school ranks.

“I want us to be a little more physical, and I want us to play hard,” East Robertson coach Kurtis Caton said. “We’re shooting pretty well right now, but I don’t want us always settling for the outside shots, we have to work it into the interior too.”

Jo Byrns coach Jo Jo Northington said his team still has some work to do before they officially take the floor for the first time, but he didn’t want to have this game effect the rest of their season.

“We only have a couple of guys coming back with any experience, so this is not how we’re going to look after the season is over, or even halfway through,” he said.

“We just have to be willing to come in and do the work, and if we do that, we have the pieces to be a good team this season.”

Jo Byrns girls 13, Greenbrier 1

Last season, the Greenbrier girls basketball team finished in a tie for third, but for the second year in a row, Jo Byrns finished runner-up to Heritage.

The Lady Cats don’t return any starters, but Jo Byrns is on the other end of the spectrum, and they are trying to capture the title this season.

“Right now I’m really pleased with what I’ve seen so far, but these girls have worked really hard all summer and it showed out here today,” Jo Byrns coach Rebecca Burns said. “I thought we also played well on the defensive end and that’s something we’ve worked hard on, so it was good to see the girls take that next step today.”

Greenbrier coach Brianna Newton said this has been a learning process so far.

“We’re literally starting from scratch,” Newton said. “These girls have a lot of hustle and drive and that’s good because we’re going to need it. We’re just going to have to put a lot of work in this season, but if we can do that they will start to see it pay off on the court.”

Springfield boys 24, Greenbrier 6

The final game featured Springfield, who was upset by Coopertown in last year’s finals, and Greenbrier, a team that is inexperienced, losing nearly every starter.

Both team also have first year coaches, but Springfield still had the athletes to beat in the boys’ division as the Yellow Jackets handed the Bobcats a 24-6 loss.

“The guys that we have are working hard and they’re playing together, so I like our nucleus,” Greenbrier coach Marcus Sholar said. “Right now we have to trust each other and play as a team, and we’ll live with the results if we can do that.”

Springfield’s Vic White, who has coached the girls team for several years, took the reins this season. He said his team still has some learning to do.

“We’ve installed new packages on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball, so right now we’re still trying to get our heads wrapped around everything,” White said. “We have plenty of athletic ability, but we have to play under control.

“Once we actually have everything I think we’ll be a good team, but we’re still in the learning process right now.”

The Springfield middle school girls were able to get past Heritage Saturday.

Station Camp’s head Coach Seth Massey talks with Chase Feeman (11) and Thomas Zazzaro(21) during a break in the action of the State Tournament Quarterfinal game against David Crockett, on Wednesday March 16, 2016, at MTSU.

Station Camp head boys basketball coach Seth Massey will receive the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s  A.F. Bridges Award for Male Coach of the Year for Athletic District 5.

Massey is one of 27 divisional recipients across the state to receive recognition on the basis of good sportsmanship and citizenship.

Nominations were made by a citizenship/sportsmanship committee and member schools in each athletic district, and the final selection was made by a state selection committee.

Massey led the Bison to their first-ever state tournament appearance last spring, finishing with a 36-2 record after suffering a 77-59 loss to runner-up Cordova in the semifinals.

A.F. Bridges Award Winners

Athletic District 1

School System Administrator of the Year: Dr. Kevin Ward, Carter County

Principal of the Year: Dr. Cindy Bowman, South Greene High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Tracy Beets, Cocke County High School

Female Coach of the Year: Jennifer Murphy, Morristown West High School

Male Coach of the Year: Greg Foreman, Pigeon Forge High School

Official of the Year: Lynn Testman, Tri Cities

Contributor of the Year: Kenny Hawkins, WJHL TV

Athletic District 2

School System Administrator of the Year: Michael McBrien, Webb School

Principal of the Year: Donald Snider, CAK

Athletic Director of the Year: Steve Killan, Knox West

Female Coach of the Year: Chris Hames, Webb School

Male Coach of the Year: Gary Rankin, Alcoa High School

Official of the Year: Blake Harris, Knoxville

Contributor of the Year: James Haslam, Pilot

Athletic District 3

School System Administrator of the Year: Pete Swafford, Sequatchie Co. Superintendent

Principal of the Year: Tommy Layne, Sequatchie Co. High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Brad Jackson, Ooltewah High School

Female Coach of the Year: Laura Cottrell, Chattanooga Christian School

Male Coach of the Year: Ralph Potter, McCallie High School

Official of the Year: Larry Osborne, Sequatchie

Contributor of the Year: Benchmark Physical Therapy

Athletic District 4

School System Administrator of the Year: Tim Tackett, Rutherford County

Principal of the Year: Lane Ward, Cookeville High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Bob Robertson, Huntland High School

Female Coach of the Year: Allison Martin, Community High School

Male Coach of the Year: Scott Cook, Cookeville High School

Official of the Year: Bubba Victory, North Central

Contributor of the Year: Barbara Wolke, Rutherford County Chamber

Athletic District 5

School System Administrator of the Year: Greg Glenn, Lipscomb Academy

Principal of the Year: Dr. James Bailey, Whites Creek High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Dr. Linda Miller, MLK Academic Magnet High

Female Coach of the Year: Lois “Missy” Donaldson, East Nashville Magnet

Male Coach of the Year: Seth Massey, Station Camp High School

Official of the Year: Billy Still, Davidson County

Contributor of the Year: Dan Crockett, CEO of Franklin American

Athletic District 6

School System Administrator of the Year: Dr. Danny Weeks, Dickson County

Principal of the Year: Christine Potts, Spring Hill High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Jeremy Boyd, Cheatham Co. High School

Female Coach of the Year: Jan Morrissey, BGA

Male Coach of the Year: Derek Boyd, Mt. Pleasant High School

Official of the Year: Brian Story, North Middle

Contributor of the Year: Shaw Daniels, Mt. Pleasant Athletic Boosters

Athletic District 7

School System Administrator of the Year: Mark Florence, Benton Coounty Schools

Principal of the Year: Jeff Barnes, Bolivar Central High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Jan Waller, Adamsville High School

Female Coach of the Year: Lori Benson, Jackson South Side High School

Male Coach of the Year: Phillip Robinson, Trinity Christian Academy

Official of the Year: Carlos Spencer, Southwest

Contributor of the Year: Brad Sam, McKenzie Banner

Athletic District 8

School System Administrator of the Year: Neal Durbin, Dyersburg City Schools

Principal of the Year: Wes Kennedy, Union City

Athletic Director of the Year: Chic Nute, Tipton Co.

Female Coach of the Year: Pam Daniel, Obion Co. Central High School

Male Coach of the Year: Jonathan West, Dresden High School

Official of the Year: Mike Blackwood, Northwest

Contributor of the Year: Steve Holt, Covington High School

Athletic District 9

School System Administrator of the Year: Chief Gerald Darling

Principal of the Year: John Bush, Douglass High School

Athletic Director of the Year: Roy Spears, Kirby High School

Female Coach of the Year: Natasha Perkins, Bolton High School

Male Coach of the Year: Yusuf Sharif, Whitehaven High School

Official of the Year: Mark Herrington, Shelby County

Contributor of the Year: John Best. Shelby County Broadcast

East Nashville senior Jacob Phillips became the football program’s first All-American on Wednesday when the Oklahoma commitment received an honorary jersey at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Presented by American Family Insurance Selection Tour.

East Nashville’s Jacob Phillips received an honorary jersey for the U.S. Army All-American game played in January in San Antonio.

Phillips, an Oklahoma commitment, has 104 tackles with seven for loss this season. The 6-foot-4, 228-pound linebacker has three interceptions, forced a fumble and recovered a fumble.

“This is like the most prestigious one,” Phillips said of the game, which will be held Jan. 7, 2017 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. “It’s something when I have kids, this game will probably still be around and still have a lot of hype around it.

“This is just a great memory.”

East Nashville (4-6) opens the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s Class 3A playoffs at 7 p.m. Friday when the Eagles play at Fairview (10-0).

Phillips, who has played primarily at linebacker this season, admitted that his role may expand in the playoffs.

“With it being playoff time, you have to try everything,” Phillips said. “I’ll be playing receiver, fullback and tight end some.”

Reach Tom Kreager at 615-259-8089 and on Twitter @Kreager.

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A look at some of the most intriguing first-round high school football playoff games from across the state. All times are 7 p.m. local time:

Thursday’s game

Gibbs’ Bailey Sivyer (3) pushes South-Doyles’ Kent’ta Tanner (6) out of bounds during a football game at South-Doyle on Friday, Oct. 7, 2016. (CAITIE MCMEKIN/NEWS SENTINEL)

Class 5A: South-Doyle (6-4) at Morristown East (5-5) 

South-Doyle, winless a year ago, returns to the postseason for the first time since its quarterfinal run in 2014. Morristown East, meanwhile, is hosting for the first time since 2013. The game was moved to Thursday because Morristown East and Morristown West share a football stadium and West also hosts a playoff game.

Players to watch: South-Doyle: RB Kent’Ta Tanner (139 attempts, 1,116 yards, 13 TDs); WR Ton’Quez Ball (39 receptions, 556 yards, 5 TDs); Morristown East: RB D.J. Hodges (150 attempts, 1,048 yards, 15 TDs); DB Ruston Rigney (51 tackles, 7 interceptions).

The pick: South-Doyle 35, Morristown East 32

— Chris Thomas, Knoxville News Sentinel

Friday’s games

Class 6A: Ravenwood (5-5) at Houston (4-5)

Four versus five seed match-ups are usually close and this one should be a dandy. The visitors have struggled after last year’s Class 6A championship while the resurgent Mustangs (1-10 in 2015) won four games in a very difficult region. Line play will be key in this one; if Houston gets the better of Ravenwood up front, it can win.

Players to watch: Ravenwood: QB McCain Marrow (over 2,000 yards passing); WR John Rall; Houston: Carson Blackfan (206 carries, 890 yards, 8 TDs); DB Jeramie Tate.

The pick: Houston 28, Ravenwood 20*

— John Varlas, The Commercial Appeal

Class 5A: Daniel Boone (5-5) at Halls (7-3)

Halls has looked capable of making a deep playoff run on occasions this season, including a gritty win over Austin-East in Week 2. Other times, in games without do-it-all quarterback Caden Harbin, the Red Devils have looked like a shoo-in for an early exit. Something will give on Friday against the top rushing offense from Region 1-5A.

Players to watch: Daniel Boone: RB Charlie Cole (136 attempts, 1,041 yards, 10 TDs), RB Noah Shelton (93 attempts, 681 yards, 8 TDs); Halls: QB/LB Caden Harbin (2,516 total yards, 33 TDs; 50 tackles, 6 sacks).

The pick: Halls 31, Daniel Boone 28

— Chris Thomas, Knoxville News Sentinel

Independence’s Troy Henderson (21) and Landon Guidry (7) celebrate Guidry’s touchdown against Smyrna, on Friday, Sept. 9, 2016, at Smyrna.

Class 5A: Gallatin (6-4) at Independence (10-0)

Independence hasn’t lost a home game since October, 2014, but the defending Class 5A champion Eagles’ opening-round game won’t be a gimme, especially if Gallatin running back Jordan Mason is healthy. Mason, who has eclipsed the 4,500-yard mark for his career, carried the ball just 13 times a week ago before leaving with an ankle injury.

Players to watch: Independence — Landon Guidry (32 catches, 604 yards, 4 TDs); David Demke (86 tackles, 11 sacks, 4 forced fumbles). Gallatin — Jordan Mason (258 carries, 2,048 yards, 23 TDs); Dezmond Chambers (671 all-purpose yards, 7 total TDs).

The pick: Independence 35, Gallatin 21

— Michael Murphy, The Tennessean

Farragut’s Cooper Hardin (1) runs with the ball during a high school football game against Oak Ridge at Oak Ridge on Friday, Sept. 2, 2016.

Class 5A: McMinn County (7-3) at Farragut (9-1)

Farragut enters the postseason with momentum, despite falling just short in its Region 3-5A repeat bid. The Admirals have won seven straight games while blending a physical running attack with an efficient passing game. McMinn County, with size and speed in its wing-T offense, is back in the playoffs for the first time since 2012.

Players to watch: McMinn County: RB Xavier Abernathy (155 attempts, 937 yards, 6 TDs); DL Xzayvier Beckingham (37 tackles, 19 TFL); Farragut: QB Cooper Hardin (66.5 tackles, 11 TFL, 7.5 sacks)

The pick: Farragut 24, McMinn County 21

— Chris Thomas, Knoxville News Sentinel

Rossview High senior Fred Orr (2) runs the ball during their game against Centennial High at Centennial High on Friday. Centennial won the Region 7 match-up 28-24.

Class 5A: Rossview (5-5) vs. Memphis Central (9-1)

The Warriors are one of the hottest teams in Shelby County, with nine straight wins after a season-opening 19-13 loss to undefeated MUS. Memphis Central is deep at the skill positions and the defense has been terrific all year. Staying turnover free is imperative. The game is being played at Crump Stadium.

Players to watch: Rossview: RB Fred Orr (136 carries, 943 yards, 11 TDs); LB Anthony Avros (74 tackles, 4.5 sacks);  Memphis Central: DT Trevis Hopper (nationally-ranked sophomore with a host of major offers already); ATH Rashad Haynes

The pick: Memphis Central 28, Rossview 17*

— John Varlas, The Commercial Appeal

Cane Ridge quarterback D.J. Thorpe eludes the rush as Mt. Juliet’s Jacob Shanks (43) pursues during the second quarter of Thursday’s game.

Class 5A: Summit (7-3) at Cane Ridge (10-0)

Unbeaten Region 6-5A champion Cane Ridge will be on upset alert for Friday’s opening-round game against No. 4 Summit. The Ravens, led by second-year coach Eddie Woods, will be looking for their first playoff victory in the school’s eight-year history, while third-year coach Brian Coleman and the visiting Spartans, meanwhile, are making their first-ever postseason appearance.

Players to watch: Cane Ridge — D.J. Thorpe (133 of 215 passing, 1,722 yards, 14 TDs); Jordan Bell (132 carries, 932 yards, 19 TDs). Summit — Tai Carter (146 carries, 1,249 yards, 14 TDs); Tyler Palmer (88 carries, 672 yards 5 TDs).

The pick: Cane Ridge 27, Summit 21

— Michael Murphy, The Tennessean

Oak Ridge’s Tee Higgins with room to run against Campbell County at Campbell County High School on Thursday, October 27, 2016.

Class 5A: Walker Valley (6-4) at Oak Ridge (8-2)

A high-scoring game that could end with a first-round upset. Oak Ridge, the Region 3-5A champion, averages 39.1 points per game out of the flexbone offense. Walker Valley, with its pass-happy attack, is averaging 44.6.

Players to watch: Oak Ridge: WR Tee Higgins (57 receptions, 861 yards, 19 total TDs) and LB Kyndall Clark (97 tackles, 4 interceptions, 6 fumble recoveries, 4 forced fumbles, 3 blocked punts); Walker Valley: QB Kolten Gibson.

The pick: Oak Ridge 49, Walker Valley 42

— Chris Thomas, Knoxville News Sentinel

Harpeth quarterback Walker Weatherly had five touchdown passes and one touchdown run in Friday’s game against Hickman County.

Class 3A: Harpeth (8-2) at Goodpasture (8-2)

Region 5-3A champion Goodpasture, led by do-it-all senior Jermaine Mason, is riding high heading into its first playoff appearance since 2013 having won three in a row. Harpeth, meanwhile, was hammered in its regular-season finale, surrendering a season-high eight touchdowns in a 56-11 loss to unbeaten Fairview.

Players to watch: Goodpasture — Jermaine Mason (1,744 all-purpose yards, 18 total TDs); Cody Crider (549 total yards, 41 tackles, 7 total TDs). Harpeth — Walker Weatherly (1,799 total yards, 19 total TDs); Drake Fullum (1,712 all-purpose yards, 14 total TDs).

The pick: Goodpasture 27, Harpeth 14

Star middle linebacker Jacob Phillips (1) leads a strong Eagles defense.

Class 3A: East Nashville (4-6) at Fairview (10-0)

Fairview is 10-0 for the first time since 1990, but the Region 6-3A champions would be smart not to overlook East Nashville, which reached into the playoffs with a sub-.500 record for the second straight year. Fariview has eclipsed the 40-point mark on five occasions this season, but Oklahoma commitment Jacob Phillips and the visiting Eagles won’t make things easy on the host Yellow Jackets.

Players to watch: Fairview — Jake Beathard (120 carries, 1,074 yards, 17 TDs); Kam Harris-Lusk (94 of 145 passing, 1,312 yards, 9 TDs). East Nashville — Jacob Phillips (104 tackles, 3 interceptions, 2 TDs); Jayron Leatherwood (75 tackles, 3 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries).

The pick: East Nashville 21, Fairview 20

— Michael Murphy, The Tennessean

Class 3A: Fayette-Ware (8-2) at Liberty (8-2)

The Crusaders are region champions for the third year in a row, while Fayette-Ware is in the playoffs for the first time since 2006. Both teams are loaded with athletes in the backfield and big guys up front.

Players to watch: Liberty – Corey Newble (120-219 1,878 yards, 20 TD, 7 INT); Rodney Castille (74 receptions, 1,070 yards, 13 TD); Alec Long (30 tackles, 12 assistsn, five for loss, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 3 INT, 9 kick returns for 205 yards, 12 punt returns for 225 yards and 1 TD); Fayette-Ware – INSERT STATS HERE

The pick: Liberty 45, Fayette-Ware 17

— Brandon Shields, The Jackson Sun

South Gibson’s defense will have to deal with the run and the pass game with Lamartez Brooks as a threat to catch the ball for Milan during their matchup this week.

Class 3A: Milan (8-2) at Bolivar (8-2)

The Tigers will host their first playoff home game since 1998. Both teams have made their mark with the ground game and a strong defense, but both defenses will be kept honest because of the dangerous weapons they have in the pass game.

Players to watch: Milan – Lamartez Brooks (49 receptions for 1,006 yards and 8 TD; 14 punt returns for 267 yards and 4 TD); Jacquez Norman (114 carries for 1,237 yards and 13 TD). Bolivar – Drek Lewis (150 carries for 1,421 yards and 22 TD) and Jar Lewis (56 solo tackles, 24 assists, 7 for loss).

The pick: Milan 34, Bolivar 27

— Brandon Shields, The Jackson Sun

Class 3A: Pigeon Forge (5-5) at CAK (8-2)

CAK, state quarterfinalist the past six seasons, still is adjusting to life without record-setting quarterback Cole Smith, out for the year after shoulder surgery. His absence puts the Warriors squarely on the upset bubble entering Friday. Pigeon Forge has won four straight after a 1-5 start.

Players to watch: Pigeon Forge: RB Colby Manis (191 att., 1,051 yards, 15 TDs); QB Dawson Day (1,131 total yards, 11 TDs); CAK: WR Stewart Howell (58 rec., 805 yards, 11 TDs); DT Caleb Unkefer (57 tackles, 9 TFL, 5 sacks).

The pick: Pigeon Forge 21, CAK 17

— Chris Thomas, Knoxville News Sentinel

DaShawn Boyland and his Raleigh-Egypt teammates are in exclusive company; the Pharaohs are one of just 19 undefeated teams state-wide headed into Week 10.

Class 3A: South Gibson (7-3) at Raleigh-Egypt (9-1)

The Pharaohs are one of the state’s feel-good stories; their nine wins is already the most in school history. The big question for coach Major Wright; how will his team bounce back after a loss to Fayette-Ware in the regular season finale? South Gibson’s schedule ended with the top three teams in its region.

Players to watch: South Gibson: RB Dre McAllister (69 attempts, 804 yards, 12 TDs), RB C.J. Sharpe (139 carries, 849 yards, 9 TDs); Raleigh-Egypt: RB DaShawn Boyland (1,309 yards, 15 TDs); DE Cedric Henderson.

The pick: Raleigh-Egypt 28, South Gibson 14

— John Varlas, The Commercial Appeal; Brandon Shields, The Jackson Sun

Scotts Hill’s Kobe Rogers runs against Jackson Christian last Friday.

Class 2A: Scotts Hill (7-3) at Adamsville (10-0)

This has been a historic season for both programs as seven wins is the most for the Lions in the regular season, and this was Adamsville’s first undefeated regular season. Both teams are dangerous in the air and on the ground offensively.

Players to watch: Scotts Hill: QB: Cody Carter (1,795 passing yards, 12 TDs); RB Kobe Rogers (181 attempts, 1,435 yards, 29 TDs); Adamsville: QB Dylan Lott (968 passing yards, 12 TDs).

The pick: Adamsville 49, Scotts Hill 21

Kade Pearson plays football and baseball at Huntingdon High School.

Class 1A: Trousdale Co. (8-2) at Huntingdon (7-2)

The two traditional powers meet in Huntingdon for the second time in as many years. The Mustangs enter the playoffs healthy this year with the trio backfield intact. Trousdale makes the trip westward as the No. 10-ranked team in the Associated Press’ Class 1A poll of the season. Huntingdon is No. 9.

Players to watch: Huntingdon: Kade Pearson (583 passing yards); Dylan Johnson (92 carries, 1,016 yards). Trousdale Co.: RB Isiah Harper; QB Keyvont Baines.

The pick: Huntingdon 42, Trousdale Co. 21

— Brandon Shields, The Jackson Sun

DII-AA: Baylor (6-4) at 5 Pope John Paul II (6-4)

Pope John Paul II has far exceeded expectations this season, reaching the six-win mark for the first time in nearly a decade, and, on Friday, the Knights will be looking for the program’s first playoff victory. Baylor, which is coming off a 34-7 regular-season-finale win over Father Ryan, will be looking to avenge its 21-19 Week 9 loss to JPII.

Players to watch: Baylor: ATH Brendon Harris (1,063 all-purpose yards, 4 interceptions, 6 TDs); DE Tyree Toliver (57 tackles, 5 sacks, 1 interception).

The pick: Baylor 28, Pope John Paul II 24

— Michael Murphy, The Tennessean

DII-A: ECS (2-8) at St. George’s (7-2)

St. George’s, the defending state champs, has gelled well over the last few weeks after a slow start. Confidence will be sky-high after a big victory at USJ in Week 11, but star running back Chase Hayden (ejected vs. the Bruins) will miss this week for the Gryphons.

Players to watch: ECS: WR Dawson Williams (34 catches, 550 yards, 6 TDs); DB Reid Halford (100-yard interception return this year); St. George’s WR Corey Jones (23.3 yards per catch, 11 total TDs);

The pick: St. George’s 42, ECS 21*

— John Varlas, The Commercial Appeal

DII-A: FACS (7-3) at Davidson Academy (7-3)

Should be a fun one; the Crusaders can put up points and amass yards with the best of them while Davidson Academy scored 188 in winning its last four of the regular season. At some point, someone on defense will have to make a play.

Players to watch: FACS: QB Jack Grissom (2,004 yards, 24 touchdowns, 3 interceptions); DB Michael McCargo (seven interceptions); Davidson Academy: QB Stone Norton (2,301 yards, 23 TDs); RB Da’joun Hewitt (1,489 yards, 21 TDs).

The pick: Davidson Academy 28, FACS 21*

— John Varlas, The Commercial Appeal

*The Tennessean’s Tom Kreager picked the winner.

Halls’ Caden Harbin (2) looks to pass during a high school football game against Gibbs at Gibbs on Friday, Sept. 30, 2016.

Ravenwood’s McCain Marrow prepares to throw downfield during passing drills on Monday, the first day Tennessee high school football teams were allowed to practice in pads for the 2016 season.

Liberty’s Corey Newble (13) runs the ball against CPA during Liberty Magnet at CPA during the 3A semifinal playoff game on Friday, Nov. 27, 2015 in Nashville, Tenn.

The Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association’s football playoffs kick off across the state this week in the first of five weeks of postseason games.

Maryville’s T.D. Blackmon (27) makes an interception against Ravenwood during the Class 6A state high school football championship game at Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville on Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015. (ADAM LAU/NEWS SENTINEL)

High school sports writers from across the USA Today Network – Tennessee discuss the opening week’s top games.

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Join moderator Tom Kreager, The Tennessean’s high school sports coordinator, as he talks playoffs with John Varlas of The Commercial Appeal, Michael Murphy of The Tennessean and Chris Thomas of the Knoxville News Sentinel.

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WAYNESBORO — Rick Rice pondered the question for a moment earlier this week on the Guy H. Buchanan Stadium field.

Wayne County quarterback Preston Rice, left, has thrown for 2,333 yards with 31 touchdowns this season. His dad Rick Rice is Wayne County’s coach.

The Wayne County football coach had just wrapped up practice and his team was busy going over game film in preparation for Friday’s Class 1A home first-round playoff game with Middle Tennessee Christian School.

Just who is the best quarterback in the Rice family? After all, this is a family full of quarterbacks.

Wayne County quarterback Preston Rice, left, has thrown for 2,333 yards with 31 touchdowns this season. His dad Rick Rice is Wayne County’s coach.

Rice’s youngest son, Preston Rice, is wrapping up his senior year as a four-year starting quarterback. The oldest son, Tyler Rice, was a quarterback from 2007-10 and won the 2010 Class 1A Mr. Football Back Award.

The middle son, Austin Rice, led the Wildcats to a 2011 Class 1A state title in his lone year at quarterback. It’s the only football state championship at the rural Tennessee school. Austin Rice was a starting receiver for three years with Tyler Rice.

And Rick Rice was a standout quarterback at McEwen and later played at Austin Peay.

“I always tell them that I am,” said Rick Rice, a 1981 McEwen graduate. “My brother (Mickey) always says that daddy (Rudy) was the best quarterback. Of course, he never saw him play.

“But I’ve heard people in the McEwen community say, ‘You know Ricky, he was the real deal.”

The rest of the family hasn’t been bad either. But Preston Rice, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound senior, is the last of the bunch and has an opportunity to go out in style.

Wayne County quarterback Preston Rice, left, has thrown for 2,333 yards with 31 touchdowns this season. His dad Rick Rice is Wayne County’s coach.

The 2015 Tennessee Titans Class 1A Mr. Football finalist enters the postseason having completed 103 of 171 passes for 2,333 yards with 31 touchdowns and just three interceptions. He’s also added 472 rushing yards and nine scores.

For his career, he’s thrown for 6,877 yards with 87 passing touchdowns and 22 interceptions.

The youngest Rice said watching his two older brothers play prepped him for his turn at the position.

However, he’s quick to point out he’s not playing in anyone’s shadow.

“(Austin) is really humble (about the state championship),” Preston said. “He’ll tell you every once in awhile that he got it. And Tyler got Mr. Football. Being the baby in the family, they’ll remind me, ‘I did this and I did that.’

“It’s just been fun for me. I don’t look at it that I have to live in their footsteps. I don’t pay attention to what anyone else thinks.”

Preston and his father spend their weeknights dissecting game film. And on Saturdays, Preston will often drive over to the school and watch film with his dad and any coaches present.

“We go over it a lot,” Preston said. “He goes over what he sees. I then tell him what I see.

“We love it so much. We never take a break from it.”

Reach Tom Kreager at 615-259-8089 and on Twitter @Kreager.

Rice family quarterbacks at Wayne County

Tyler Rice: Starter from 2007-2010, 6,731 passing yards, 87 touchdowns, 27 interceptions

Austin Rice: Starter in 2011, 942 yards, 8 touchdowns, five interceptions

Preston Rice: Starter from 2013-2016, 6,8977 yards, 87 touchdowns, 22 interceptions

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Montgomery Bell Academy senior Ty Chandler became the program’s first Army All-American when the standout running back was presented with an honorary jersey during Thursday’s U.S. Army All-American Bowl Presented by American Family Insurance Selection Tour at MBA.

MBA running back Ty Chandler was presented an honorary U.S. Army All-American jersey on Thursday.

Chandler, a Tennessee commitment and No. 2 on The Tennessean’s Dandy Dozen, has rushed for 1,718 yards and 31 touchdowns this season, helping lead the Big Red to an 8-2 regular-season record, as well as a Division II-AA East/Middle Region title.

“It’s just a blessing to be recognized as an All-American,” said the 5-foot-11, 195-pound Chandler, a four-year starter and the school’s all-time leading rusher. “I’m very thankful, and I want to thank my teammates, coaches and parents because I wouldn’t have been able to do it without them.”

Chandler, a four-star prospect and the nation’s fifth-ranked running back according to 247Sports, has carried 894 yards for 6,614 yards and 99 touchdowns during his career. He currently ranks seventh in TSSAA history in career rushing yards and third in career touchdowns.

MBA opens the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Associations Division II-AA playoffs next Friday at Tommy Owen Stadium. The Big Red will host the Christian Brothers-St. Benedict winner.

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Reach Michael Murphy at 615-259-8262 and on Twitter @Murph_TNsports. 

It’s a new day for the Creek Wood Lady Red Hawks, who have started practice this week and are looking to build off of last year’s success and then some.

“I’m trying to get familiar with our players, and them get familiar with me,” said first-year coach Sam Young, who takes over for the departed Tom Mullinicks.

“We’ve only had a couple of days of practice, but there’s lots of good energy and we’re working really hard to get ready for the start of the season.”

Winners of District 11-2A last year, Creek Wood lost its Class AA sectional game against East Nashville to end its season at 26-11. The Lady Red Hawks also had a 15-1 record in district play to boot, and the belief is that the same results can be duplicated this year.

“We just have to take it step-by-step, and keep getting better each practice,” said Young.

“I’m really excited about this year’s team.I feel like we can compete in our district, and I think, by the middle of January, we’re going to be tough to beat.”

McKenzie Broadway departs from last years team, as she plays for Hiwassee. as does last year’s leading scorer Caroline Edmonson (13.6 points per game). The Lady Red Hawks do have a couple of experienced players returning, and Young is looking to see who could step up this year.

“That’s something we’re in the process of trying to figure out,” said Young.

“We’re trying to see who’s going to step up. We only have one senior on this team in Taylor Moore, but she’s doing a really good job of leading for our underclassmen. I have high expectations for her this season.”

The Lady Red Hawks will have their first game at Cheatham County Nov. 18

Reach Andy Simmons on Twitter @AndyDHTN

Sam Kilian dribbles the ball up the court last season at Montgomery Central.

The state high school cross country meet is Saturday at the Steeplechase Course at Percy Warner Park in Nashville.

Meet schedule

Class A/AA girls: 10 a.m.

Class A/AA boys: 10:45 a.m.

Division II-AA girls: 11:30 a.m.

Division II-AA boys: 12:05 p.m.

Division II-A girls: 12:40 p.m.

Division II-A boys: 1:15 p.m.

Class AAA girls: 1:40 p.m.

Class AAA boys: 2:20 p.m.

10 Middle Tennessee boys runners to watch

Brentwood Academy’s Carter Cheeseman (1015) and Davis Holliday (1018) finished 1 and 2 in the DII-AA state meet in 2015.

Davis Bove, Centennial, So.: Bove was fifth in the Region 6-AAA meet in 16:16.13.

Carter Cheeseman, Brentwood Academy, So.: Cheeseman is the defending Division II-AA champion, winning in 16:20.40.

Timothy Dye, Riverdale, Sr.: Dye was second in the Region 4-AAA meet in 16:11.49.

Brentwood junior Brodey Hasty is the defending state champion in Class AAA.

Brodey Hasty, Brentwood, Jr.: The defending Class AAA champion ran the Region 6-AAA meet in 15:26.09.

Davis Holliday, Brentwood Academy, Jr.: Holliday finished second in the Division II-AA state meet in 2015 in 16:22.27.

Colin Lamb, Page, Sr.: Lamb was runner-up in the 2015 Class A/AA meet. He won the Region 6-A/AA meet in 16:55.80.

Daniel Smith, Oakland, Sr.: Smith won the Region 4-AAA meet in 16:06.83. .

Scott Thompson, Brentwood, Jr.: Thompson was third in the Region 6-AAA meet in 16:05.05.

Jackson Vroon, Brentwood, Sr.: The senior finished 15th in the 2015 state meet and was fourth at the Region 6-AAA meet in 16:07.59.

Taylor Vroon, Brentwood, Sr.: The senior tied Hasty with a time of 15:26.09 in the Region 6-AAA meet.

10 Middle Tennessee girls runners to watch

Brentwood Academy’s Claire Cheeseman (846) won the DII-AA state cross country meet. Teammate Meredith Helton was second.

Claire Cheeseman, Brentwood Academy, Sr.: Cheeseman won the 2015 Division II-AA state meet in 18:57.64.

Taylor Cuneo, Central Magnet, Jr.: The two-time defending Class A/AA champion has been limited due to shin splints.

Addi Coggins, Independence, Sr.: Coggins was second in the Region 6-AAA meet in 16:36.69. She was fourth last year at state.

Meredith Helton, Brentwood Academy, Jr.: Helton was second in the Division II-AA meet in 2015 in 19:27.47.

Breja Hooks, Oakland, So.: Hooks was third in the Region 4-AAA meet in 19:48.56.

Gigi Maddox, Page, Jr.: Maddox won the Region 6-A/AA meet in 20:05.08. She was 20th at the Class A/AA  meet in 2015.

Emma McClellan, Riverdale, Sr.: The Ole Miss commitment was second in the Region 4-AAA meet in 19:10.28. She was sixth in the 2015 state meet.

Victoria Simmons, Siegel, Sr.: Simmons won the Region 4-AAA meet for the second straight year in 18:26.55. She was 10th in the 2015 Class AAA meet.

Annika Sleenhof, Ravenwood, Jr.: Sleenhof won the Region 6-AAA meet in 17:53.65.

Kylie Wittman, Brentwood Academy, Fr.: Wittman placed sixth in 20:18.20 at state in 2015.

Reach Tom Kreager at 615-259-8089 and on Twitter @Kreager.

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Gallatin High senior Jordan Mason has rushed for 2,030 yards and 23 touchdowns this season.

Two Sumner County players were named Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Semifinalists Friday morning.

Gallatin senior Jordan Mason and Pope John Paul II senior Ben Brooks were named to the final four in their respective classes.

Mason has rushed for 2,050 yards and 23 touchdowns on 259 carries and has one receiving touchdown. He recently broke the Gallatin career rushing record and set the single-game rushing record in back-to-back weeks this season.

Brooks has thrown for 1,943 yards and 13 touchdowns, and has rushed for 243 yards and seven touchdowns while leading the Knights to the school’s first home playoff game in 10 years.

Pope John Paul II quarterback Ben Brooks has thrown for 19 touchdowns and rushed for seven more this season.

The list will be narrowed down to two finalists within the next week, with the awards presentation to be held at Nissan Stadium on Monday, Nov. 28.

Reach Chris Brooks at cbrooks@tennessean.com or at 615-575-7118. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram @CBrooksTN, and on Snapchat @cbrooksgne.

Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Awards logo.