2018 Lincoln County Football Capsule

LINCOLN COUNTY

League: Class 2A Southern

Head coach: Raymond Wadsworth, second season (8-4)

2017 record: 8-4 (6-1 Southern, second place)

Returning lettermen: 12

Returning starters: 5 offense, 6 defense

Base offensive set: Double wing

Base defensive set: 3-4

Top offensive players: RB Noah Smith (Sr.); RB/WR Kamdon Lewis (Sr.); RB Dean Ottley (Jr.); OL McKinley O’Connor (Sr.); OL Hunter Cluff (Sr.)

Top defensive players: LB Noah Smith (Sr.); DB Kamdon Lewis (Sr.); DL Dean Ottley (Jr.); LB Alex Vincent (Sr.); DL/LB McKinley O’Connor (Sr.); DR Hunter Cluff (Sr.)

Top newcomers: QB/DB Cody Zile (So.); OL/LB Anthony Sinay (Fr.)

Key losses: RB/S Landen Smith, OT/DT Matthew Finlinson

Outlook: The Lynx had their streak of two league titles in a row snapped, but it was still a strong season. They lost only once in league play, and that was on the road to league-champion Needles.

This year, the Lynx may have the edge for the title. They get Needles at home this season in what could once again be the Southern League title game. They return five two-way players, including leading rusher Noah Smith, who rushed for 1,044 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. They also bring back two seniors on the offensive line to help protect a potent double-wing ground attack.

Lincoln County was in the state title game just three years ago, and enter the season with realistic expectations to return.

“This year’s outlook is very positive,” Wadsworth said. “We have several key players returning and expect making a push into the state playoffs.”