While last year had plenty of ups and downs for coach James Jones and the Ely Tigers, this spring has brought a new enthusiasm to a program that has been one of the most productive through the years.
With the nation's top cornerback, Patrick Johnson, now moving on, the focus has been on one of the area's top prospect, Michael Carter, who has been looked at by schools such as Florida, West Virginia, Georgia, Miami, Georgia Tech and Minnesota, where his cousin Tyrone was a standout.
Last year, Carter had 35 tackles, 18 pass breakups, seven interceptions, and four defensive touchdowns.
While Carter is getting most of the attention, this is a program that certainly remains in the playoff hunt once again this season with players like Class of 2009 linebacker Brandon Sims and defensive end Malcolm Ricks, and Class of 2011 standout defensive lineman Akeem McCloud.
The Tigers have had their share of quality running backs through the years with players such as Tyrone Moss, Rod Baker, Nick Davis, Henri and Zack Crockett and Jones, who went to Florida and then made an impact with the Detroit Lions. One of the up-and-coming stars is 6-0, 205-pound Bobby Spencer reminds many fans of one-time standout Dou Innocent.
Don't forget that we will be following football recruiting year-round. We have some impressive coverage coming up with our Recruiting Team on the road every day.
