Vitals:

    The DeSoto Eagles may be a bit of a surprise at #7 in the state, but considering the incredible amount of talent they have returning from their 10-4 regional finalist squad it would be hard to rank them much lower.  Overall, DeSoto returns 26 lettermen, 9 starters, and 4 All-District players from last year’s team.  Consider too, that if it weren’t for Cedar Hill, DeSoto might be the defending Division 2 State Champions.

     Leading the way for DeSoto is the phenomenal Cyrus Gray.  As a junior, Gray rushed for nearly 1,500 yards and 31 touchdowns while splitting time between RB and QB.  This year, Gray will most likely assume full-time QB duties emulating what Cedar Hill did with William Cole.  Gray can match Cole’s running ability, but he won’t be the passer Cole was.  It may not matter, though, because the Eagles return 4 starters on the offensive line, 5 if you include TE Tony Jerod.  Guards Chris Atchison and Charles Phillips are both D1 caliber.

     Joining Gray in the backfield will be outstanding Florida transfer Adrian Bushell and returning letterman Chad Winbush.  Bushell has offers from 5 D1 schools so far, including one from Michigan.  That backfield trio has the potential to be downright unstoppable, especially when combined with their great offensive line.  When Gray does go to the air, he’ll likely search for speed demon Vincent Dotson or future star Darius Terrell who’s just a sophomore.

     On defense, DeSoto will be led by OLB R.J. Young, NT Jeff Clermond, and DE Tony Jerod.  All three started last season and played vital roles in DeSoto’s success.  Bushell could also make a significant contribution on defense, given that he played safety during his time in Florida. 

     Another area of strength for DeSoto is special teams.  Returning K/P Oraine Linton earned first-team All-District recognition for his efforts and place-kicker Eric Littlejohn is a proven and reliable weapon for the Eagles as well.  Late in the playoffs, special teams could mean the difference between going home and advancing, and DeSoto’s special teams are as good as any.

    Last year, DeSoto didn’t always look like a regional finalist caliber squad, but this time around, with a more experienced group led by one of the most gifted athletes in the state, the Eagles should be able to assert themselves very early on.  DeSoto will be tested right away having to face Garland in their first game and that game should tell quite a bit about both teams.  If the Eagles defense can improve on last year’s 23 ppg allowed average, a trip to the state finals is not out of the question.   

The Bottom Line:

2007 Schedule

Strengths:

Weaknesses:

Forecast:

Speed,
Outstanding Runing Ability,
Experience on offense

Unproven defense

Contend for district, and be a force in the playoffs

Top Players: