Brookhaven, coached by Tommy Clopton, is excited to start the season as they prepare to visit the Franklin County Bulldogs in Meadville.

All eyes will be on the Panthers as their returning starters and seniors provide leadership for the upcoming young talent.

On offense, Jon-Mark Mathis (6-1, 185, sr.) returns for his second year as the Panthers’ quarterback. Thomas Poole (5-10, 180, jr.) will be Ole Brook’s top returning running back in the backfield. Darrian Wilson provides Ole Brook with plenty of talent at wide receiver.

Wanya Morris (6-2, 265, sr.), Brandon Rice (6-2, 270, sr.) and Jordan Nations (5-10, 245, sr.) bring experience to the offensive line.

On defense, Brookhaven will experience a rebuilding year after losing five starters to graduation, including linebacker Leo Lewis, who signed to play collegiate football with the Mississippi State Bulldogs.

Senior defensive end Stephen Springfield (6-2, 245) and senior linebackers Amari Davis (6-0, 210), Greg Watts (5-9, 195), Willie Bates (6-0, 200) and Dedric Smith (6-0, 205) will be depended on to provide leadership.

Last year: The Panthers crushed the Bulldogs 33-18.

Franklin County,  coached by Anthony Hart, will be expecting a great season.

The Bulldogs will have several key returnees with receiver DeMartre Collins (5-8, 165, jr.), running back Courtney Smith (5-11, 183, sr.) and quarterback Jacob McDaniel (5-9, 165, soph) will direct the offense.

On defense, Chris O’Quinn, Greg Queen, and Marquis Dunn have returned at linebacker for FCHS and will be a major factor in the Bulldogs’ defensive schemes.

My prediction for this year: Ole Brook will escape Meadville with their first win of the season 28-14 over Franklin County.