Wilson Football Preview
Coach Carlton Thomas knows he has his work cut out for him. The former Woodrow Wilson graduate takes over as the head football coach for his alma mater this season; a team that went 0-10 last year. Thomas realizes that turning the team around is a process that may take some time but already knows where to start. “We need a change of attitude,” Thomas says. “We need a competitive spirit that I didn't see a lot from the films from last year.” The good news for Coach Thomas is that he will be given a lot of young but returning talent that he will be able to work with for a few seasons. Fullback Maurice Darden and line backer Lloyd Clemons will bring experience and leadership to the youthful team that Coach Thomas says already appears to be excited about the upcoming season. “We just need to know how to play the game,” Coach Thomas says, “We need to know how to be successful at your individual position and how to gel together as a team.”
Quarterbacks
Freshman Bakari Hardeman will take the reins at quarterback for the Presidents in 2006. Despite any inexperience, Coach Thomas appears to be confident in Hardeman saying that he has a good arm and is very mobile.
Running Backs“In the classic tailback/fullback combo, these guys fit the script,” Coach Thomas says about his backfield tandem of Tevis Gamble and Maurice Darden. Gamble has good feet and balance and will be a threat to catch the ball and Thomas says that Darden is a real bruiser and again, will bring experience and leadership to the team.
Wide Receivers
Speed and height is what Coach Thomas is looking for from his wide receivers this season and what better place to find those qualities than from the basketball team. Calvin Brown and Terrell Griffin will bring both at the wide out spots and Thomas likes Griffin's hands. Dysher Crawley will also bring his speed and play-making abilities to the receiving corps.
Tight Ends
Coach Thomas hasn't found his starting tight end yet but knows that receiver Terrell Griffin will see some time there if need be.
Offensive Line
ensive LineSophomore tackle Anthony Lee, Norman Wilson and Lloyd Clemons will anchor the offensive line for Wilson in 2006. Coach Thomas is still looking for a reliable center and depth on the line.
Defensive Line
Coach Thomas is still putting together his defensive line but will rely heavily on sophomore sensation Anthony Lee to lead the young group.
Linebackers
Defensive leader Lloyd Clemons will head up the line backing corps in 2006. Johnathan Boone will also play a line backer position and David Nixon will join them on the outside.
Secondary
Calvin Brown will lead a young but speedy secondary at the free safety position. Shakese Hardeman will be at on of the corners and Trent Porter will see time at the other. Dysher Crawley will also join the Presidents' secondary.
Kickers
Logan Huffman and Kristopher Garwood return to the Presidents' special teams as the kicker and punter respectively.
Extra Point: “We might get creative here and there,” Coach Thomas says, “But we're looking to just perfect a few offensive and defensive plays to be competitive again.”
