ALICEVILLE, Ala. — Aliceville High School senior linebacker Anfernee Mullins is creating a buzz for the Yellow Jackets football team this season.
The 6-4, 233-pound linebacker has committed to South Alabama and is rated by ESPN.com as the state’s 36th best prospect.
“He is a very dynamic player with a lot of interest,” Moody said. “He is very fast and strong. He has all the tools. He will definitely play at the next level.”
Joining Mullins at the linebacker spots are seniors Qdarius Hinson and Deonte Taylor. Juniors Michael Jordan and Anthony Brown will compete for time on the defensive line. The secondary returns three starters including Cody Davis, Steven Dunner and Jamar Richardson.
While the defense hopes to create turnovers, Moody says the number one goal on offense is to protect the football.
The Yellow Jackets had 31 turnovers last year, including a season-high seven turnovers in its loss to rival Pickens County. Aliceville had five turnovers in its playoff loss to G.W. Long.
“Turnovers were a problem last year,” head coach Charles Moody said. “We have to eliminate turnovers and score points. We are working on ball control, making good decisions and protecting the football.”
The offense will be run by sophomore quarterback Santiago Taylor, who will be starting under center for the third straight year. Santiago threw 17 interceptions last year, but Moody expects that number to be less this year.
Another boost to the offense is the return of senior running back Jeremy McMullen, who missed the 2013 season with an injury.
“He is a two-year starter and a great player,” Moody said. “It is great to have him back. He will make the offense much better.”
Taylor will also lean heavily on senior running back Jay Steele and senior receivers Stephon Dunner and Cody Davis. Sophomore Jamar Richardson and Deonte Taylor will also see action at receiver.
The offense front returns three starters including seniors Isaiah Wilder and Wesley Little and junior Anthony Brown. Seniors Luke Mobley and Devious Taylor will be first-time starters.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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