Scouting Report

To help break down each week's biggest game, the Times will poll two opposing players from around the county. This week, Wharton linebacker Josh Powell and Jefferson defensive end Max Holloway offer insight on Armwood-Plant.

By Joe Smith
Published August 31, 2007

 Josh Powell

Wharton senior linebacker

Powell, the Wildcats' starting quarterback last year, is their hard-hitting team leader on defense. "He's like our John Lynch," coach David Mitchell said.

On Plant, three things to watch:

1. QB Aaron Murray can move: "Murray is more of a runner than (Robert) Marve. He's got good vision; he can really move outside of the pocket and make a play downfield."

2. Their receivers don't cut corners: "They are all really good route runners. They know how to find the open spots in zones, and they've got great hands."

3. They'll keep you guessing: "They really like to spread you out (four or five wide receivers). They'll run some no-huddle to try to keep you off-balance."

Max Holloway

Jefferson senior defensive end

Holloway, who played center last year because of a broken wrist, is poised for a breakout season. Holloway, who racked up four sacks in last week's preseason win, has offers from Stanford, Cincinnati and Syracuse.

On Armwood, three things to watch:

1. The Hawks will bruise you up: "They're probably the hardest-hitting team in the county. They're fast, they're disciplined. But everyone can hit."

2. DE Sergio Joyner's quick feet: "He's got a real good jump off the ball, a real good first step."

3. RB Eric Smith is a beast: "Eric is the strongest, biggest back in the county. It's very hard to tackle him. It's very rare you see him go down with just one guy trying."

[Last modified August 30, 2007, 23:57:01]