**Incase you missed it, you can check out our podcast interview with Coach Hurst Here: Pepperell Dragons Podcast
The Skinny
Head Coach Rick Hurst has led the Pepperell Dragons to the state playoffs in each of his first four season as head coach over in Lindale. We know that with success comes expectations and different challenges. We asked Coach Hurst what some of those challenges were this season.
“Keeping our players focusing on improving their game each day,” he said.
While Coach Hurst will have his hands full keeping his players focused, he does return one of the better quarterbacks in the region and perhaps in Northwest Georgia in Gage Moses. Moses was an All-Region selection in 2018 as sophomore. He passed for 1,373 yards and 16-TDs. Moses also rushed for 407 yards and 2-TDs.
The Dragons lose their top rushers from a year ago to graduation, but Josh Ross appears to be poised to step into that role this season. Meanwhile, All-Region receiver Payton Rhoades returns and will likely be one of the top targets of Moses. Rhoades caught 47 passes last season for 594 yards and 8-TDs. Dawson Duncan and Clay Crawford will anchor the Dragons offensive line.
Defensively, the Dragons most experienced unit might be their secondary. Defensive back Ryan Hurst, an All-Region selection highlights the unit. He will be joined by John Ross at safety and Tray Robinson at corner. Jake Chandler will provide experience at linebacker while Tyler Liggons will lead the defensive line.
We asked Coach Hurst if there were any games that were circled on the schedule this season.
“They are all important,” he replied, “but the Region Title could come down to our game with Rockmart High School.”
We asked Coach Hurst how the Dragons will define a successful season?
Hurst answered, “The level in which we improve weekly from game to game will give us a chance each week.”
