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High Point Central

Last season: 4-8, 2-3 in Metro 4-A (4th place), advanced to first round of playoffs

-The Bison only return three starters on offense, and they'll start sophomore Drew Adams at quarterback. But head coach Wayne Jones is hoping Adams is helped by the fact that two of those returners - Desmeion Kennedy and Terrance Isley - are three-year starters at wide receiver. "If (Adams) gets the ball in the area, they're going to have a chance to catch the ball," Jones said. The Bison will use a simpler playbook early in the season to help Adams make the transition. "He's got a pretty good arm," Jones said, "and he's a smart kid - I think he's No. 1 or 2 in his class. Hopefully, he'll make good decisions for us."
-Jones hopes a veteran defense will help protect his young offense. Andrews brings seven starters back, including its entire linebacking corps. That unit includes N.C. State-bound senior Ricky Dowdy, a second-team All-Area selection last season with 74 tackles and 12 sacks. It will also add junior Akeem Langham, who recorded 109 tackles as a safety last year, and James Morman, who makes the switch from defensive lineman.
-The Bison lost four games by a touchdown or less last season in Jones' first stint as coach. He's hoping for more consistency this time around. "Just like with players, you look at yourself, evaluate and try not to make the same mistakes," Jones said. "It is a little bit easier. It's nice to call a play and have the kids know what you want."