Tigers look to parlay experience in key positions to return trip to playoffs

The Ripley Tigers bring back starters at key positions for 2019 that they hope equates to a playoff berth after missing out in 2018.

It all starts in the offensive backfield, with returning players Tristan Vandiver and Jamal Brooks coming back as seniors to pace the offense. Brooks can be a force to be reckoned with from his running back position and he has the speed to pull away when he isn’t running through defenders. Vandiver, who threw for nearly 1000 yards and 7 TD’s last year, will have a wide array of young receivers to get the ball to, led by Sentavius Hunt, Labron Vance and Immanuel Griffin.

Up front, the Tigers line will try to push defenders out of the way behind a pair of senior starters in TJ Storey and Justin Hill. The offensive line has the ability to to open gaps for Brooks that could lead to big plays.

On the defensive side of the ball, Ripley will hope to continue the success that coach Rico McDonald has had calling plays the last several season. Dy’Quez Edgeston and Shaundell Carter will lead the defense from their linebacker positions. Hunt will be counted on to create turnovers through the air as he did last season, as will junior Diamonte Williams. If the Tigers can get pressure up front and create turnovers. Ripley can have success in their methodical style of play.

The Tigers open their season at home August 23rd against defending state champion Water Valley. The Tigers face division newcomer North Pontotoc, Tishomingo County and rivals Corinth and New Albany to round out the division schedule. A week 3 matchup against lontime rival Booneville could be a focal point for how the season goes for the Tigers.