MILLPORT, Ala. – By nature, a stallion is prone to aggressive behavior.
The South Lamar High School Stallions possesses one of the largest defensive lines in the state of Alabama, which sits well with Coach Shannon McGregory and his style of play.
Senior defensive ends Justin Cheeks (6-3, 270) and Tucker Holliman (6-4, 255), along with junior nose guard Aaron Holliman (6-2, 280) gives the Stallions a solid defensive front.
“That has to be our strength,” McGregory said. “We probably have as good a defensive line as any team in the state. Our starting three are big and strong and athletic.”
Seniors Austin Patrick, Josh Cobb and Cody Watkins will join that trio on the offensive line where McGregory hopes his team can establish the run game in the wing-t offense.
The running game is anchored by senior tailback Herschel Smith and junior fullback Dustin Weathers.
“We will run the football and our running backs are a big part of the offense,” McGregory added. “We will stick to what we do. We will throw the ball some, but we are not a passing offense. We run the ball to set up the pass.”
One of the challenges during fall camp was the development of the starting quarterback. The Stallions entered preseason practice with a trio of candidates to choose from in junior Kyle Redman and sophomores Noah Dismuke’s and Sam Dawdle.
Redman was named the starter and Dismukes the backup.
“Kyle is very athletic,” McGregroy said. “He is a pretty good passer and pretty quick. When things break down, he can tuck it and run it.
“I don’t have a problem starting either one, but we decided to go with Redman as a starter on offense and Dismukes on defense.”
Dismukes will start at the free safety for the Stallions.
Junior outside linebacker Hunter Marlow and senior defensive lineman Cody Watkins will also play key roles on the defense. The story goes here
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 40 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.