CRESTVIEW — Tim Hatten is excited about his seventh year of coaching Crestview High School football and his thirty-second year overall.
“It’s always fun coaching high school football when you’re able to move to another year and use the same plan, but different players,” Hatten said.
The Bulldogs might look a little different this season, but their explosiveness remains the same.
“We’ve got some playmakers in different spots on offense and defense,” Hatten said. “We’re really excited about the talent level of this team. We’re not short on talent by any means. “
The team’s offensive line will be led by seniors Cade Kootsouradis and Camren Moffett. The offensive line will look to protect senior running backs Taylor Scarbrough and Rawson Mack, along with triple-threat junior Marquis McCoy.
“I think you’re going to see some production out of these guys. I mean we’ve always seen production so there’s no reason to not see it,” Hatten said. “I think that’s the most exciting thing is to take those players that you felt like needed some more touches and they’re the guys now. They’re the guys we’re counting on.”
On the defensive side of the ball, the Bulldogs will look for leadership from seniors Tyron Washington, Terrell Holiday and Jaheim James. The trio brings a combination of experience and depth that Hatten hopes will lead to big plays.
The Bulldogs’ goal for this season is simple: Make the playoffs and go all the way. The team came close last season, losing to Armwood in the state semifinal.
“I think the kids understand where the program is in terms of the success we’ve had in the past and I think the expectations from themselves are higher,” Hatten said. “You want to improve every year if you can. We think we can be very successful.”
The Bulldogs kick off the 2019 season at home on Friday, August 23 at 7 p.m. against Vernon High School.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Crestview Bulldogs preparing for explosive season