PrepNation 101 Preseason FB Countdown: No. 79 Newnan

79. Newnan (Ga.)

Last season’s record: 11-2, lost in Class 5A quarterfinals

Coach: Robert Herring

Key players: QB Russell Powell (5-9, 165, Sr.), WR Alan Bonner (5-10, 175, Sr.), DB Alec Ogletree (6-3, 215, Jr.), OT Ray Beno (6-3, 280, Sr.), OT Adam Calhoun (6-7, 330, Sr.), LB Leland Russell (5-10, 225, Sr)

Biggest strength: Experience

Question mark: Program has never won a state title

Outlook: Anything short of a third consecutive region championship this season should be disappointment for the Cougars, who have 18 returning starters. Newnan's spread offense features two-sport standout Powell, a terrific athlete who has Division I scholarship offers in both football and as a point guard in basketball. He accounted for more than 2,600 combined rushing and passing yards last season. Powell’s primary target again will be Bonner, an all-state selection as a junior. Beno and Calhoun anchor an offensive line with great size and experience. Future blue chipper Ogletree and Russell will lead the defense.

Toughest games: Aug. 29 vs. LaGrange, Nov. 7 at East Coweta