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Football Countdown: No. 7 Wharton Has Personnel To Contend

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By NICK WILLIAMS

The Tampa Tribune

Published: August 22, 2008

The Tribune is counting down the top 10 Hillsborough County football teams. Today: No. 7 Wharton. The rankings were compiled in a vote by the Tribune's four staffers who cover high school football and Dan Lucas of WFLA, Ch. 8.

In 2006, the Wildcats missed the playoffs despite having an 8-2 record. Last year, Wharton finished 5-5 but made the playoffs, only to lose to Chamberlain in the Class 5A region quarterfinals.

The Wildcats will try to have both a stellar record and a playoff appearance this season, and they have the personnel to do it.

Defense has always been the trademark of the Wharton program, and this season is no different. Returning is senior safety Jairus Jones, probably the biggest defensive recruit in the program's history. The 6-foot-2, 210-pound strong safety is a three-year varsity starter, a three-time all-county pick and a two-time all-state selection, and he has offers from LSU, Michigan State and Nebraska.

Last season, Jones had 89 tackles and one interception. Although a strong safety, Jones plays like a linebacker in Wharton's system. Chase Boswell, Chris Oliver and Rick Noel return at linebacker, while Noel will also see time on the defensive line.

Senior quarterback Andrew Clifford will lead the offense after earning the starting role last season. As a junior, he had 1,471 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and four interceptions while completing 80 of 139 passes.

In the region loss to Chamberlain, Clifford went 16-of-23 for 234 yards and two TDs.

"I want to improve every day," Clifford said. "I want more win totals and want to take the team farther than last year."

Clifford will try to put the ball in the hands of 6-2 senior and returning starting receiver Khiry White, who had 245 receiving yards with one touchdown as junior. The coaches are placing the ball in the hands of junior running back Shane McEwen to establish a running game, but they also will depend on Jones, who had 60 carries for 332 yards and three touchdowns last year.

KICKOFF CLASSIC: Aug. 29 at Plant

SEASON OPENER: Sept. 5 vs. Freedom

Reporter Nick Williams can be reached at (813) 865-4848 or nwilliams@tampatrib.com.

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