'Big Red' has big target on their backs in 2003

GAINESVILLE - Gainesville High coach Bruce Miller says he has to keep moving these days.

"We've got a big 'ole bullseye on our back and everyone is going to be coming after us," he said. "We're just trying to stay out of the line of fire."

Well, what did he expect after guiding the Red Elephants to a 13-1 record, a Region 7-AAA championship and a run into the Class AAA semifinals last year.

The Red Elephants open defense of their region title against White County at home. Kick off is slated for 7:30 p.m. and the game can be heard on MAJIC 102.9-FM with the pregame show at 7 p.m.

More than 75 players came out for practice this year to help Gainesville keep the run going. But it's the four players he has to replace - quarterback Stephen Edwards, wide receiver Andrew Thacker and running backs Damian Dowell and Michael Malone - that will prove their fortunes this year.

"Those are some big shoes to fill, no doubt," Miller said. "You don't often lose an entire backfield. And though we don't expect to be able to equal that kind of production, we feel like we have some quality players who are ready to step up."

Senior Don Whitley, who transferred from West Hall, will take over at quarterback while junior John Castleberry will take Dowell's position. Juniors Adrian Goss and Joseph Maheffey will likely split time in Malone's spot.

Carlos Cobb and Alex Brown will give Whitley two solid targets in Miller's Wing-T offense.

"They've shown some things in practice and after four weeks we're ready to get going," Miller said.

White County has a new coach in Mark Wilson and the Warriors will employ a new run-and-shoot type offense. The Warriors, however, graduated several top offensive stars from last year, including leading receiver D.D. Tate.

Miller said they've been watching film of other teams that use the offense.

"It's going to be a little different for our guys to prepare for, but I think we'll be ready. But it should be interesting," Miller said.