Walnut will take on Ashland in the season opener for both teams in the 2018 season. The Wildcats won last years contest 33-14 at Walnut.

Offense

Walnut’s pro style, multi- look offense is effective at keeping teams on their toes. The Wildcat’s balanced attack will play well against a Blue Devil team breaking in a new defense under a new coach.

Look for the Wildcats to lean heavily on the dynamic duo of four year starter seniors Kris Perry and Kevin Hurley. Hurley will lead the team from the quarterback position and his ability to move the chains with his arm or his feet will prove important against a very fast Ashland defense.

Perry will line up all over the field. As one of the areas best athletes, Coach Meeks will look to get him the ball in various spots on the field.

Walnut’s offensive production will be predicated on running the ball and they will look to TJ Luellen to carry the load behind their experienced offensive line.

Defense

The Wildcat defense might have its hands full dealing with the team speed of Ashland. The Benton County team will have a very experienced, dangerous backfield combo led by Tavionne Stigger, who was listed as a player to watch in Mississippi this year, and Ashland captain running back Zayvon Knox.

Luckily for the Wildcats, their defensive line should be able to control the line of scrimmage. That will make a big difference as an equalizer to Ashland’s speed and athleticism.

Look for Hurley to make some plays at linebacker and on the defensive line. Between him, Andy Allen and Brandon Smith the Wildcat defense should not have a problem wrecking havoc in the Ashland backfield.

Prediction

Walnut is too much along the line of scrimmage. Wildcats 30-13