Frank Johnson

Cross quarterback Devante Jenkins prepares to fire a pass in preseason action at Goose Creek.

Heading into the final days of preparation for the season-opener against James Island, Cross football coach James Waring said his Trojans have plenty of work to do to get ready.

“We’re still trying to find the right mix and combination,” said Waring, who enters his fifth season at the school. “We’re still changing some things as we speak.”

Over the last four seasons, the Trojans have progressed each campaign, going from three to four to five to seven wins last season and the Region 6-A championship.

Staying on top of that mountain won’t be easy, Waring said.

“We remind them every day that people are looking to knock us off,” Waring said. “They’re all hungry. They’re wanting to win.

“We can’t sit back and rest. Everybody’s got to prove their worth again. Everybody’s got to step up from the starters to the trainers, and me, too.”

Offensively, the Trojans will spread the wealth, distributing the ball to a number of capable backs.

Howell is the top player returning statistically on offense, having rushed 65 times for 555 yards and five scores. John Gourdine is another back with experience, he came on strong late last season to finish with nearly 400 yards on the ground.

Michael Smalls and Antonio Smith figure to get their share of carries, too.

The quarterback spot will be held down by Devante Jenkins, who continues to get better on a daily basis, Waring said.

“He’s a tall kid, so he’ll be able to see a little bit,” he added. “He’s got a decent arm, so that helps out. He understands what we’re trying to do. What’s hurting him is knowing what to do in game-time situations. He just needs more reps.”

His top target in the passing game figures to be Matthew Thierse, who had over 300 yards receiving and caught four touchdown passes in 2007. Stephon Simmons looks like he’s going to be the other wide receiver.

The lone starter returning on the offensive front is Tim Stephens (5-9, 198), who is undersized but tough in the trenches.

“He’s got experience,” Waring said. “He’s not big but he knows what to do. He’s definitely the anchor. Other than him we’ve got a lot of inconsistent guys up there.”

Defensively, Stephens is a cornerstone up front from a defensive end spot. He finished second on the team in tackles a year ago. His interception return for a touchdown loomed large in the 19-3 playoff-opening victory over Hannah-Pamplico last season.

Smalls and Kentrell Gathers are other key fixtures up front.

Simmons is an anchor at the second level, while the Gourdine twins (John and Johnathan) are the two cornerbacks.

The safeties are Matthew Nesbitt and Theirse, who made four interceptions last fall.

“We’ve got to develop some depth,” Waring said. “We’ve got to have more young people come in and give us some minutes.”

The James Island game is a rare Class A versus Class AAAA matchup. Waring didn’t think Cross had ever played a school that large before.

“We’re using that as an instrument to find out where we need to be,” Waring said. “Those first games of the season don’t make you or break you but they can get you ready for the region.”

After James Island, the Trojans are set to meet new Berkeley County school Cane Bay and Lake Marion.

“I think that this team can get 7, 8, 9 or 10 wins,” Waring said, “but we’ve got to get things going and stay healthy.”

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