Hancock Central Bulldogs 2019 TFR Preseason Preview

         The Skinny

In 2018, head coach Marleau Blount guided the Hancock Central Bulldogs to the team’s first playoff appearance since 2012 and the first winning record since 2006. With the success the Bulldogs had last season, we know the expectations tend to be a little higher. We asked Coach Blount about the biggest challenges he and his staff faced coming into this season.

He said, “Administrative Stability.”

Even with those challenges Coach Blount was optimistic about the team.

“The entire offense is returning and there are several players who will do more this year,” Blount added.

Among those returners on offense are quarterback Jaylon Hatcher. Last season, Hatcher passed for 1,386 yards with 14-TDs. He will be joined in the backfield by junior Keveon Robbins who rushed for 1,376 yards and 8-TDs in 2018. The Bulldogs also return their top three receivers from a year ago in Carmichael Allen (20 catches, 375 yards), Jamarcus Morris (17 catches, 269 yards), and Jamal Taylor (20 catches, 202 yards).

Upfront, Jamerrious Moore will anchor the offensive line. All Region selection Mondrecus Hendrick will also add depth and provide leadership up front.

Defensively, the Bulldogs return All-Region selections Qeontavious Ivey, Marquavious Lawrence, Tony Butts. Ivey is the team’s leading returning tackler, while Lawrence was one of the sack leaders from a year ago. Tony Butts will anchor the defensive line. He was top 5 in tackles for Central a season ago.

Jamal Taylor and Jamarcus Morris will be back patrolling the secondary along with Carmichael Allen. The trio picked off 7 passes a year ago.

The Bulldogs don’t have any games circled on their schedule. They are looking to take it one game at a time.

So, what are the expectations that Coach Blount has for his team this season?

“This is the fourth year of our process to build a program,” he replied. “This year will prove that we have arrived as a single A contender.”