When: Friday 7:30 p.m.
Where: Shelton Stadium
Records: Season opener for both
Last Meeting: Hays 41, Akins 20 (2010)
What they’re saying: “We’re excited about the opportunity, excited about our team and we’re ready to get things started.” - Hays head coach Blake Feldt
Akins Offense: Spread
Akins Defense: 3-4
Hays Offense: Spread
Hays Defense: 3-4
Players To Watch: Hays – QB Caleb Kimbro, Slot Receiver Michael Romero, WR Mason Cervenka, C Boone Feldt, WR Granger Studdard, LB Michael Pieprzica, LB Dalton Johnson, LB Mark Oldham, DE Kyle Cox
Players To Watch: Akins – QB Rakim Jackson, WR/DB Andy Armendariz, WR/DB Felton Armstrong, LB Reggie Flowers, DB/WR Michael Saucedo
Intangibles: The first game of the Blake Feldt era at Hays will be against a foe he will have to make sure his Rebels aren’t overconfident against. Akins was 0-10 last season, and Hays whipped the Eagles by 21 points in the season opener last year. On a positive note for Hays, QB Kimbro, slot receiver Romero and center Boone Feldt, who at times this preseason were all nursing injuries, should all be ready to go Friday night. There should certainly be excitement in the air in Rebel Country once the 2011 season kicks off, and if things go right for Hays this season the Rebs will once again be battling for the District 27-4A title.
Free Press Prediction: Hays 42, Akins 14
