PrepNation 101 Preseason FB Countdown: No. 24 Apopka

24. Apopka (Fla.)
Last season’s record: 12-2, lost in Class 6A semifinals
Coach: Rick Darlington
Key players: QB/RB Jeremy Gallon (5-9, 175, Sr.), QB/DB Caleb Nelson (6-1, 175, Sr.), LB Larvez “Pooh Bear” Mars (6-0, 210, Sr.), RB Travelle Davis (5-11, 185, Sr.), OC Tyler Darlington (6-3, 240, So.), LB Bradley Gallon (5-10, 185, Jr.), DE Dominique Morris (6-3, 210, Jr.), DB Lorenzo Wood (6-0, 180, Jr.), RB/DB Tom Smith (6-1, 190, So.)
Biggest strength: Experience, speed
Question mark: Size on defense
Outlook: The Blue Darters have enough talent and experience to challenge for their first state title since 2001. Fifteen starters return, led by Michigan commit Gallon. As a junior, he was first team all-state after running for nearly 1,700 yards and passing for over 1,000 yards. His completion percentage was 65 percent and he did not throw an interception. Sharing the hybrid QB position with Gallon in Apopka’s Single Wing offense is Nelson, who is also a starting safety. Lining up at fullback for the third straight year is Davis, who had nearly 1,700 rushing yards over the last two seasons. Mars optimizes the character of Apopka’s tough but undersized defense. A four-year starter, he is a tremendous open-field tackler. The Blue Darters will shoot up in the national rankings if they are able get a win September 19 at No. 4 South Panola (Miss.).
Toughest games: Sept. 5 vs. Lake Brantley, Sept. 19 at No. 4 South Panola (Miss.) - ESPN