CONWAY WAMPUS CATS
Conference: 7A-Central
Head coach: Kenny Smith
Record last year: 5-6, 3-4
Points scored, points allowed: 209-313
Playoff appearances since 1968: 17
Last playoff appearance: 2006
Playoff record: 12-17

Key returning starters: FB Jaycob Baker, WR/HB Isiah Jackson, DE Benton Conque, OL Tanner Boling, DT Anthony Maltbia, S Dustin Hooper, DT Brandon Blackwood.

Outlook: Another large senior class should allow Conway to improve on last year's 5-6 record and fourth-place finish in the 7A-Central. Six returning starters on defense should also allow the Wampus Cats to improve on the 313 points the stop group allowed a year ago. Kenny Smith, a 1967 Conway graduate, is accustomed to winning and the Wampus Cats should return to their usual scenario this season although moving past Little Rock Central, Bryant and North Little Rock will prove a supreme challenge. Isiah Jackson and Jaycob Baker were all-state last year and return on offense. Benton Conque leads the defense at end. A number of seniors are set to step into the other starting positions, including quarterback prospects Collin Torian and Zac Cates.

Comments from Smith: "(Offensively), Jackson and Baker both made all-state as juniors. They are play-makers in our offense. If quarterback and O-line develop like we think they can, we should be able to move the ball. (Defensively), we have some kids we played a lot last year returning. If the new kids will step up their level of play and all play to their potential, we can have a pretty good defense. We have a good group of seniors to work with. We are limited on our depth, therefore, we must stay healthy. We are not big in size, but I think this group has the heart to be successful."