PrepNation 101 Preseason FB Countdown: No. 40 Foley

40. Foley (Ala.)

Last season’s record: 12-1, lost in Class 6A quarterfinals

Coach: Todd Watson

Key players: DT D.J. Fluker (6-7, 315, Sr.), DE Justin Anderson (6-3, 235, Sr.), DE D.J. Jones (6-4, 235, Sr.), DT Trevior Graves (6-0, 245, Sr.), LB Dakota Simpkins (6-1, 210, Sr.), OL Estefano Malone (6-0, 250, Sr.), QB Marcus Washington (5-10, 185, Jr.)

Biggest strength: Defense

Question mark: Offense

Outlook: The Lions have enough talent on hand to challenge two-time defending champion Prattville for the 6A title. A defense that allowed only 11 points a game last year might be even stronger in ’08. The front seven looks downright scary with the addition of Alabama recruit Fluker, a transfer from Biloxi, Miss. He joins returning standouts Anderson, Jones and Graves. On offense, the Lions have some rebuilding to do with the graduation of All-America WR Julio Jones, now at Alabama. Malone is the top returning player on the offensive line. Washington, a talented junior, begins his second year as the Lions’ signal caller.

Toughest games: Oct. 3 at No. 78 Daphne, Oct. 17 at McGill-Toolen