The Newton Rams finished 2011 with a 6-4 record in Region 2-AAAAA. Considering the powerhouses within the region such as Stephenson, M.L. King and East Coweta, Newton did well to finish fifth in the region.
Head coach Cortez Allen has never made an excuse about the level of competition, but moving to Region 2-AAAAAA this season may offer an opportunity for the Rams to return to the playoffs, all while establishing area rivalries.
“We are excited about our new region and look forward to rivalries being renewed with Alcovy and Rockdale as well as the opportunity to compete against one of the best teams in the state in Lovejoy,” said Allen. “Our goals are to improve on our 6-4 record from last year and to make a run in the state playoffs.”
Key returning players are DT Kinsley Ejike, DT Treyvon Richardson, FS Duronte Carter, LB/FB Joe Rockett, WR Aaron Pierce, DB/WR David Comer, WR Taylor Hawkins, RB Darius Dean, OL/DL Corey Thomas, OL/DL Daniel Durden, P/PK Zack Sullivan, SS Robbie Wallace and OLB/TE Dezmond Billingsley.
On offense, Newton will continue to run a Multiple-I but does have some question marks, especially at quarterback. The Rams will continue to be an athletic team, but the ability to score points will be a focal point.
Defensively, they will run a Base 46, looking to be sound against the run with several defensive linemen returning along with an experienced group of linebackers and secondary.
“We will look to continue to improve our program on and off the field and continue to work to get our student-athletes opportunities to play at the next level,” said Allen.
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