Despite this being one of the smaller backfields coaches Brian Hill and Rohan Gaines have seen, the Bearcats can match up with anybody you put across from them, they said.

Only two starters have left the backfield: cornerback Aaron Spivie, who graduated in May, and safety Caleb McDowell, who is currently listed on Lee County’s roster after a transfer this summer.

Plenty of players are back in the purple and gold to hold the backfield together, though, and the depth is one of the best the coaches have seen in years. Seniors Jalyn Peterson and Jaheim Jenkins, junior Courtney Thomas and sophomores Zaccheaus Chrispen, Deyon Bouie and Zion Bouie all have playing experience throughout last year’s 15-game state championship run.

“These guys are in pretty good shape,” said Gaines. “They’re young. They come out here and they’re hungry, so they work.”

Many of these players are also playing wide receiver, so Hill is confident all of them will play throughout every game, whether on offense or defense, with enough depth to keep fresh legs on the field.

“They are always working,” said Hill. “I’m a true believer in that wherever you are on the field, whether offense or defense, it just makes you a better football player.”

Hill and Gaines both agreed that the depth has bred plenty of competition this summer, something head coach Jeff Littleton has wanted to see more of during the offseason. There is always someone waiting to take your spot.

“At any moment, they know if they don’t compete, it’s the next guy up,” said Gaines.