The Skinny
Coach Rex Hodges returns to Dodge County for his 8thseason. Last year, the Indians won their 2nd Region title under Hodges and achieved their 4thconsecutive second round appearance in the state tournament.
We asked Coach Hodges what will be one of the biggest challenges going into the 2018 season for he and his staff.
“Developing linebackers,” he said.
Offensively, the Indians welcome back RJ Carr, an All-State Honorable mention selection at running back. Carr gained 1,498 yards and 16 TDs on the ground in 2017. Running back Erin Pitts will also return for the Indians for his senior season. Pitts rushed for 731 yards and 10 TDs. Paving the way for Carr and Pitts will be linemen Ty Belflower and Ty Wallace.
Defensively, First Team All-State lineman Jadin Johnson is also back for his senior season. Vince Mann and Jamal Mahan also join Johnson on the defensive line. Cornerback Keyshawn Smokes is back patrolling the secondary. This group helped lead a defense that held opponents to under 18 points per game.
Coach Hodges is certainly not looking ahead. We asked if any game was circled on the schedule and he responded “ Bradwell Institute.” (The first game of the season.)
When asked about how success will be defined for the Indians in 2018.
“We would like to show improvement each day,” said Hodges.
