By Michael Lindsay
The Stone Memorial Panthers hit the scrimmage field Friday afternoon for the second time this preseason as they hosted Bledsoe County in Crossville.
“The purpose for scrimmages for us is figuring out who can and can’t play,” said Stone Memorial head coach Derik Samber. “Then figure out technique-wise things we need to fix.”
The teams played four running-clock quarters in which Stone Memorial won the varsity portion, 14-0.
Reigning Region 4-4A Most Outstanding Linebacker Brady Lane caught a touchdown pass offensively and tipped two passes defensively for interceptions, one of which he brought down himself.
“Brady had a great night, which is what we’ve come to expect,” Samber said. “He had an interception, a few tipped passes and a touchdown catch. That’s who he is and we certainly don’t want to take it for granted.”
Along with Lane catching a touchdown, Stone Memorial RB Houston Woody punched in a short-yardage touchdown set up by a Nick Osmun pass to Maddox Oquendo down the left sideline.
The Panthers return 8 offensive starters but have key positions to fill from their 2022 campaign that finished 10-2 overall including Nick Osmun taking over at quarterback for last season’s region co-MVP Hunter Heavilon.
“I’m pleased with the guys who are stepping up for us,” Samber said. “I’ll continue to brag on Cole Hinch at that right guard spot. Nick (Osmun) is stepping into the biggest seat on the offense and had a pretty good night tonight.”
Stone Memorial hosts their final preseason scrimmage on Thursday, Aug. 10 as they welcome the defending Class 4A state champion Anderson County Mavericks.
“We’ve got a jamboree with Anderson County, which is certainly a big test,” Samber said. “Seeing a state champion is a measuring stick for where you’re at. We’re excited to see that and hopefully that prepares us for what we know is going to be a really good Cookeville team week one.”
Stone Memorial’s regular season kicks off at Cookeville on Friday, Aug. 18.
