Though the North Lamar Panthers had a tough 2012, Tommy Felty’s team did make it back to the playoffs after missing the postseason in 2011.
This season, Felty has athleticism, improved team speed and experience returning on defense. Linebackers Jonathan Edwards (80 tackles) and Kameron Avery should be especially key for North Lamar’s defense, and defensive end Jake Cowling is another player to watch in 2013.
On offense, the linemen Jackie Berry (6-3, 300) and Thomas and some potential in wide receiver Samaki Walker (15-375, 2 touchdowns).
This year’s schedule features every opponent that defeated North Lamar last year. The Panthers start off 2013 with a tough home game against 2A Commerce (7-5 area finalist), then they host Canton (8-3 bi-district, 4-1 in District 15-3A) before traveling to New Boston (12-1 regional semi-finalist, 6-0 in District 8-2A DI). After New Boston they have a game at Quinlan Ford (8-4 area finalist, 3-1 in District 14-3A) before heading into a tough district schedule.
In district play they host Pittsburg and Liberty-Eylau (defeated Panthers 28-26 in 2012), travel to Atlanta (5-7 area finalist, 3-2 district) and then host cross-town rival Paris (8-4 regional semi-finalist, 5-0 district) before ending the season with an easier game against Pleasant Grove.
With four teams going to the playoffs this year, Felty should be able to guide the Panthers back there for the fifth time in six seasons.
Head Coach: Tommy Felty 2012 Results: 5-6 bi-district finalist, 3-2 in District 13-3A Top Players: OL Jackie Berry, Sr., 6-3, 300. WR Samaki Walker, Sr., 5-11, 150; Receiving 15-375 yards, 2 TD. LB Jonathan Edwards, Sr., 6-0, 180; 80 tackles. LB Kameron Avery, Jr. OL Derrick Thomas, Soph.
