Glendale junior Thomas Whittaker

After spending all last season playing on the JV team, Whittaker, a junior, has carved out a niche as a starting guard on a team full of seniors and is averaging 8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. Actually, the Falcons play 7 seniors, and it’s easy to assume Whittaker is one, too. Just like most of his undersized Falcon teammates, he has a complete offensive game, one that is underscored with unselfishness.

TAGsgf.com caught up with Whittaker before a recent Glendale practice to discuss the Kickapoo rivalry, how the Glendale formula works and his love for Blink 182.

Kickapoo's Ryan Rippee

When you see Ryan Rippee dunk during a Kickapoo High School basketball game, or score on the block, it’s easy to wonder to yourself, or even speculate with the person next to you where he’s going to play college ball. He has 30-point games regularly, as well as double-digit rebound game, so why not?

Baseball.

See, Rippee’s story is peculiar. Sure, he’s a supertalented basketball player. He’s also coached by his father, Dick, at Kickapoo High School, but before that, he was at nearly every Evangel University practice when his father was an assistant under Steve Jenkins. “I learned a lot there and sometimes got to participate.”

But as a 6-foot-5, 200-pound senior, Rippee’s future is likely in high Division I baseball. “I can probably play at a higher (collegiate) level in baseball,” he said. There, he’s a powerful corner outfielder with a strong arm.

Still, Kickapoo is 15-6 and Rippee is averaging 25.6 points and 6.2 rebounds. TAGsgf.com sports editor Allen Vaughan swung by Kickapoo to catch up with Rippee who lets us in on what it’s like to have a coach/father, how he gets pumped up for a game and his love for Blake Griffin.

While everyone knows him as the country’s No. 1 football prospect in the country — including his Bass Pro Tournament of Champions peers on the court — Hillcrest High School senior Dorial Green-Beckham put on quite a show in the Hornets’ fifth-place finish.

But, in a video interview with TAGsgf.com, DGB talked to us about many things, but the most significant was how he said he was going to make everyone wait until Feb. 1 — National Signing Day — to make his college decision. A press conference has been scheduled for 3:30 p.m.

Many in the media are scrambling to figure out what he is going to do. Recently KSPR’s Mike Scott had a report saying DGB had eliminated Alabama from his list after the national championship. A day later, the News-Leader’s Matt Schoch reported that he hasn’t informed the Tide of it.

That’s why we’re bringing you the video interview, that along with college football recruiting talk includes:

• His experience at the Army All-American Bowl, including his SportsCenter Top 10 catch (It was No. 4)
• How Oklahoma and Mizzou assistant football coaches showing up at the T of C doesn’t really matter.
• And more.

Archie Goodwin hangs from the rim.

Before Archie Goodwin showed up in Springfield for the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions, we weren’t sure just how good he was. After the first of many scoring bursts — he would seemingly go on stretches where he’d score all his team’s points — we got the picture fast.

Goodwin is a senior at Sylvan Hills (Ark.) High School and is headed to play at the University of Kentucky for coach John Calipari. That’s what happens when you’re the No. 12-ranked player in the country. Goodwin showed off the driving-to-the-bucket skills that have been reported on, but he showed the occasional jumper and his knack for scoring all kind of different ways around the basket.

TAGsgf.com caught up with Goodwin after his team’s win over Glendale on Day 2. Among the topics discussed were:

• How he chose Kentucky and it wasn’t really hard to say no to Arkansas.
• How many Kentucky hats he rocks on a regular basis.
• His love for hot wings, and a recent story about how he crushed Buffalo Wild Wings’ hottest sauce with ease.
• Goodwin says he works out 3 times a day.
• And much more

Coming into the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions, LJ Rose was freefalling down the Rivals.com rankings. Once thought of amongst the best young underclassmen in the country, Rose found himelf ranked as the No. 96 senior and committing to Baylor.

But you couldn’t tell by his performance in the Tournament of Champions. Not only did his team, Westbury Christian (Houston, Texas), win the T of C, but he earned MVP honors, going for an average of 18.3 points and 10 assists per game.

TAGsgf.com caught up with the 6-foot-4 senior to talk about his play, the edge the Rivals.com rankings gave him and how passing has always been easy for him.

Tyree Robinson is an athletic slasher/scorer who happens to be a dynamic football prospect, as well.

Tyree and Tyrell Robinson are a package deal — just ask them.

The 6-foot-4 junior twin brothers are top 150 national recruits in both basketball and football, and say they will only go to schools that will offer scholarships to both, in the same sport. The Robinsons currently have basketball offers from Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, San Diego State, Stanford and Texas.

The duo helped Lincoln (San Diego, Cal.) to a 52-49 victory over Hillcrest — and national No. 1 football recruit Dorial Green-Beckham — in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions first round. The twins combined for nearly 80 percent of their team’s scoring.

Even when asked to do a video interview, the brothers wanted to do it together, so TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan obliged. The pair discussed:

• How they actually enjoy lifting weights and working out.
• Their willingness to attend college together.
• How they like to trick others into knowing which one is which
• And plenty more.

(Shout out to Kyle Green of BakedFreshDaily.com on the video)

Omar Calhoun is smooth.

CTK's Omar Calhoun is back, and he looks like the real deal.

Christ the King guard Omar Calhoun showed everyone at JQH Arena how his game has improved over the last two years since Calhoun and the Royals were last at the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions. The 35th best player in the country — the No. 6 best shooting guard — is headed to play for the defending national champion UConn Huskies.

Calhoun showed off in an easy win over Sylvan Hills Thursday night, but it was the way he did it that was impressive. He finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds, but didn’t have a single point after the first quarter. Then, as you’ll hear in the interview, he went into his bag of tricks and showed off all the pieces of his offensive game.

When TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Calhoun, they discussed:

• Calhoun’s relationship with former UConn star and current Charlotte Bobcat Kemba Walker.
• How he feels he can never be stopped on the court because his offensive game is so diverse.
• His love for the SGF fans, especially the ones that remember him from two years ago.
• Brooklyn rappers.
• And more.

(Shout out to BakedFreshDaily.com’s Kyle Green on the video)

Tony Parker is a big dude.

When Tony Parker talks, everyone listens.

The 6-foot-9 senior center from Miller Grove High School (Lithonia, Ga.) is one of the top recruits in the country, and is still undecided. Rivals.com ranks him as the 33rd best player in the country and the 5th best center. His list is enormous and includes heavy hitters like Duke, Georgetown, Georgia Tech, Kansas, Memphis, Ohio State and UCLA.

Sure, he was putting his skills on display for the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions fans, but the real gems came when TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with the gregarious Parker after Thursday’s first-round victory over St. Rita (Chicago). Parker touched on the following topics:

• Clothes
• How unstoppable he is on NBA 2K12
• Music
• Recruiting: “If you commit after an official visit, you’re dumb.”
• Young Jeezy, “You should check him out, I’ll introduce you.”

Hilarious.

Brandon Morris is long.

The Miller Grove High School (Lithonia, Ga.) senior is a 6-foot-8 senior forward who’s equipped with long arms and legs that allow him to reach beyond and over defenders, and wreak havoc on his own defensive end.

He’s heading to Georgia to play in the SEC for his home state, something he’s very proud of, and he said Dawgs coach Mark Fox really made him feel like a piece of the future.

TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with the Division I player who’s been compared to former NBAer Stacey Augmon.

For the past 27 years, the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions has thrilled a basketball-hungry area with future basketball stars at the college and the professional level.

When someone says Tournament of Champions, what do you think? I harken back to Alonzo Mourning, Todd Day, Anthony Peeler and even as recent as guys like Erving Walker, DeMarcus Cousins and John Wall.

So, I’ve taken the time to put together the most comprehensive and interactive guide for this year’s T of C. This way, not only can you marvel at their skill, but be up on their background and be able to sound smarter when talking to total strangers in the concession line.

If you missed our post on the schedule, with a pairings, click here.

CTK's Omar Calhoun is back, and he looks like the real deal.

CHRIST THE KING (MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY)

School’s athletic website
Preseason No. 14 rated team by MaxPreps.com
Last year: 22-7, NY City champions
Coach: Joe Arbitello

The Stud

Omar Calhoun, a 6-3 senior guard
Rivals rank: No. 35 overall, No. 6 shooting guard
College commitment: Connecticut
Other schools that offered: Arizona, Florida, Louisville, Maryland, Miami (Fla.), Oklahoma State, Pitt, Rutgers, Seton Hall, St. John’s, Vanderbilt, Villanova, Virginia, West Virginia

Calhoun has been described as a slasher who is becoming a better shooter as he matures. He was here with CTK two years ago and showed flashes of brilliance, but had a very thin frame. Well, he’s filled out and has been described as UConn’s best New York City recruit since Kemba Walker. High praise, indeed.

For a YouTube highlight package, here is some of Calhoun’s handiwork:

Calhoun was here two years ago and we dusted off the old video we captured then:

The other stud

Is Isaiah Lewis ready to commit to Kansas? Reports say he's close.

Isaiah Lewis, a 6-3 junior guard
Rivals rank: No. 53 overall, No. 6 point guard
College commitment: None
Other schools that offered: Kansas, Florida, Georgia Tech, Memphis, Miami (Fla.), North Carolina

This report says Lewis is very close to committing, and leaning toward Kansas.

Lewis, a 6-foot-3 prospect, is ranked No. 40 in CBSSports.com’s Top 100. They describe him like this:

Lewis is a high-level scorer who is very good in the mid-range. He has a good floater and pull-up jumper, and also knows how to get into the lane. Lewis has good athleticism, and has been developing into more of a facilitator than a scorer since moving over to the point. He said he is working on his 3-point shot.

The rest of the team

The Royals have two other players that are probably Division I players, including Jordan Fuchs — a 6-6 junior forward — and Jon Severe — a 6-1 junior guard. Fuchs has offers from Florida, Ohio State, Rutgers and Xavier. He’s been dunking in games since his freshman year. Severe is being recruited by Florida, Providence and Drexel.

Tony Parker is a big dude.

MILLER GROVE (LITHONIA, GA)

What looks to be an up-to-date MaxPreps page
Preseason No. 2 ranked team by ESPN
Last year’s record: 32-1, back-to-back state champs
Coach: Sharman White

Remember Milton (Ga.) HS? Last year, Milton had three big D-I studs (Shannon Scott, Dai-Jon Parker and Julian Royal) and Miller Grove took them down in the state playoffs, thanks in part to Tony Parker and emerged as a national powerhouse. He’s a big dude, but looks like he can move well. I’m sure conditioning is always going to be a problem, but he looks the part. Oh, he’s one of five future D-I players.

The studs

Tony Parker, 6-9 senior center (“270 pounds”)
Rivals rank: No. 33 overall, No. 5 center
College commitment: None
Schools that have offered: Duke, Georgetown, Georgia Tech, Kansas, Memphis, Ohio State, UCLA

ESPN breaks down Parker’s strengths as such:

With his combination of size and skill level, Parker is one of the elite big men in the 2012 class. He is a space eater in the post who can carve out position on the block. When watching him play you quickly see the skill he possesses; once he catches he has an array of post moves he is capable of throwing at you, led by the left shoulder jump hook. He is very adept at facing the basket from 15′ where his soft touch enables him to knock down a jump shot or drive the ball one or two dribbles to the rim. His greatest attribute though is his tremendous hands which are soft and sticky.

Here is a YouTube clip of Parker:

Miller Grove's Brandon Morris

Brandon Morris, a 6-8 senior small forward
College commitment: Georgia
Schools that offered: Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Florida State, Georgia State, Kansas State, Memphis, Missouri, Nevada, NC State, Wichita State

The experts say:

Strengths:
Morris is another of the many Miller Grove kids that can play. He is an active athlete that is relentless on the glass. He has the potential to be a lock down defender with excellent length and lateral quickness.

Weaknesses:
He is going to have to develop his perimeter game to be a more effective wing player, but he has good instincts and a motor to match. Although we need to see him shoot it more from the perimeter to get a true evaluation of his shooting ability he looks like he will fine in this area.

Bottom Line:
For you old schoolers Morris is a Stacey Augmon look alike.

It looks like Morris is clutch, too. Here’s a clip of him hitting a game-winner.

The rest of the team

Aside from Parker and Morris, Rivals.com lists three other seniors in the D-I database. Toney Evans is a 6-5 small forward who has an offer from Georgia State, but is being recruited by other small majors including Appalachian State, UALR, Kennesaw State, Tennessee Tech and William and Mary. Florida State is interested, as well. Point Guard Davante Provost (6-foot, 175) is being recruited by Georgia Southern, Iona and NC Central. Christian Houston is another senior point guard (6-1, 165) that is grabbing D-I attention, even though Rivals doesn’t list a school. Look out for Justin Colvin, a 6-2 senior guard, too.

SYLVAN HILLS (SHERWOOD, ARKANASAS)

Last year’s record: 27-2, state runner-up
Coach: Kevin Davis

It’s rude to say Sylvan Hills is a one-man show, but in T of C terms, it is. That show is run very well by one of the top players in the entire country. Let’s get to it.

The stud

Archie Goodwin hangs from the rim.

Archie Goodwin, a 6-4 senior guard
Rivals rank: No. 12 nationally, No. 2 shooting guard
College commitment: Kentucky
Other schools that offered: Kentucky, Arkansas, Connecticut, Kansas, Memphis

ESPN describes him as the following:

The long athletic small forward has brought back comparisons of the last great player from the state in Joe Johnson because of the smooth way he plays the game. Goodwin is a multi-skilled forward who can put the ball on the floor to attack the rim or spot up for knock-down jump shots out to the 3-point arc. He has tremendous length on his side which he utilizes to rebound and defend. It looks as if all facets of the game come easy to him. Goodwin has a nice handle that gets him where he needs to go, and has improved his perimeter stroke from behind the arc.

Here’s a video:

The rest of the team
In terms of big-time college hoops recruits, the rest of the team doesn’t have them. But, some other names to remember are Larry Ziegler (6-2, G, sr.) and Dion Patton (5-9, G, sr.)

ST. RITA (CHICAGO, ILL.)

What looks to be an up-to-date MaxPreps page
Last year’s record: 12-14
Coach: Gary DeCesare (former St. Raymond coach, has coached in T of C before)

St. Rita looks to be a quality program from Chicago that’s currently missing one of its two Division I players, A.J. Avery, a guard headed to Penn. He’s expected to be back in January, but it’s unclear if he’ll play in the T of C. Still, the Mustangs are ranked in ESPNChicago.com’s Top 20 and feature future Division I guard Tony Hicks.

Tony Hicks drives baseline

The studs

Tony Hicks, a 6-2 senior guard
Rivals rank: None
College commitment: Penn
Other schools that offered: Loyola, Dayton and South Florida

According to reports, few players in the entire 2012 improved their stock more than Tony Hicks. A combo guard, Hicks averaged 13 points as a sophomore and 16 points as a junior. Remember De La Salle HS with now-Illinois forward Mike Shaw? DLS is still a quality program and Hicks just scored 31 to beat them. Without Avery, Hicks has had to put his game in overdrive.

 
AJ Avery is a 6-6 senior forward who has committed to Western Michigan. So far, he’s been hampered by a wrist injury, but when healthy, he’s a force on both ends. Senior point guard Cullen Foulks (5-7, 140) is a key player, but the other excitement comes from a group of underclassmen.  Sophomore forward Victor Law (6-5, 170), sophomore guard Dominique Matthews (6-1, 165) and freshman guard Charles Matthews (6-2) are being recruited by Big East and Big 10 schools.

Sorry fans, I couldn’t find any videos.

L.J Rose is a 6-foot-4 pass-first point guard? Yes, please.

WESTBURY CHRISTIAN (HOUSTON, TEXAS)

Last year’s record: State runner-up (School has won 16 of last 21 state titles)
Coach: Russell Carr

The studs

L.J. Rose, 6-4 senior point guard
Rivals rank: No. 95 overall, No. 20 point guard
College commitment: Baylor
Other schools that offered:

ESPN.com wrote the following about Rose:

Strengths:
Rose is a pass first lead guard that can score when needed. He possesses good size and length to go along with his excellent basketball IQ. Recovered well from a foot injury and is in the process of getting back into game shape after being off the court since July (2010). Rose does a good job of beating defender with his size and IQ rather than speed and quickness. When he gets a defender on his hip while penetration Rose can get deep into the lane where he deliver the ball to an open teammate or score. Rose also uses his size to shoot over smaller point guards when he feels the need to score.

Bottom Line:
Rose is a terrific true point guard that can handle and pass. His court vision is great as well. He can score when needed mostly off the bounce. Rose has the IQ and talent to be a special player to go along with his size and length. Strength and verbal leadership and consistent shooting from behind the arc takes his game to the next level.

Here is some great YouTube footage of Rose:

Rose to Dickerson:

Delvin Dickerson (right) might be an instant fan favorite

Delvin Dickerson, 6-6 senior forward
Rivals.com: None
College commitment: South Alabama
Twitter handle:http://twitter.com/_Durrel2x

The rest of the team

Darin Minniefield (6-1, jr.) is a guard that’s being recruited by Florida State, Kansas, San Francisco and Texas. You might remember his father, Dirk, who played for Kentucky in the late ’70s and early ’80s. Devon Turk (6-3, sr.) is a guard that’s listed by Rivals and ESPN as a recruit, but doesn’t have schools listed. As you can tell by winning 16 of the last 21 state titles, they are a clinic.

LINCOLN (SAN DIEGO, CAL.)

Team’s MaxPreps Page
Last year: 31-2, state semifinalist
Coach: Jason Bryant

Why is it when twins are good at basketball, everyone assumes they are super-tall and post players? With Lincoln, that’s totally wrong. Instead, Lincoln is stacked with twin junior guards Tyrell and Tyree Robinson, both of whom are rated inside the top 150 players in the country and took California by storm last season. (Oh, and Tyree Robinson is a national top 150 football recruit)

The studs

Tyree Robinson is an athletic slasher/scorer who happens to be a dynamic basketball prospect, as well.

Tyree Robinson, 6-4 junior guard
Rivals.com rank: 69th nationally, 5th shooting guard
College commitment: None
Schools that are recruited Robinson: Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, San Diego State, Stanford and Texas

Robinson looks smooth in the video that follows. Not only is he a top-70 shooting guard, but he’s a top 100 recruit nationally in football as an athlete. Either way, here’s what ESPN.com has to say about him:

When discussing the top combo-guards in the country for the class of 2013, Robinson needs to be near the top. He has a chiseled frame with long arms and plays at a relentless pace. Offensively, he can attack off the dribble and utilize his strong frame and explosiveness to finish at the rim or drop off an assist to an open teammate%u2014had a number of high-level alley-oop passes during the regular season and AAU season. He can knock down the 3-point shot and he gets great lift on his shot. His release is smooth on his shot and he gets great arc on it as well.

Tyrell Robinson, 6-4 junior guard
Rivals.com rank: 111th nationally
College commitment: None
Schools that are recruited Robinson: Arizona, Arizona State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, San Diego State, Stanford and Texas

Copy much of what you see from his twin brother, and jot it down here. It’s unfair to say he’s the lesser talented one, because there are plenty of games that he outscores Tyree. He’s also a big-time football recruit and is a wide receiver. Expect plenty of SGFers to get these two mixed up.

The studs

The third big piece of Lincoln’s squad is 6-6 junior center Jeremiah Turner. He’s an undersized shotblocker at the D-I level and is going to Cal-Irvine. Here are some highlights of Turner doing his thing:

The local teams

As for the local teams, Glendale and Hillcrest, we’ll talk more about them as the tournament approaches. But, there’s no need to worry about them right now. You’ve got some studying to do. Go ahead, share this link with your family and friends and feel free to print this out.

It’s a great time of year.

Want to get in touch with Allen Vaughan? E-mail him at Allen@TagSGF.com. You can follow him on Twitter here or on Facebook here.

Get ready for more Blue and Gold Tournament action. Photo: Kyle Green/BakedFreshDaily.com

Crew lineup:

Brett Johnston and Kyle Green: Photo/video
Words: Allen Vaughan
Production: Chris DeRosier
Interning: Coleman Mitchell

Follow along with our Blue and Gold Tournament Consolation Finals Live Blog, orchestrated by TAGsgf.com intern Coleman Mitchell.

Kameron Bundy. Legend.

He had just thrown one down on a fastbreak that wowed the crowd, but no one was ready for what Bundy had in store next.

The 6-foot-1 Nixa High School senior stole a pass and got into a 3-on-1 fast break with teammates Jordan Epps and Austin Ruder. What happened next turned the future Drury University Panther into a Blue and Gold Tournament legend.

We have video of the dunk, as well as a video interview just moments after Nixa’s 54-43 victory over Rogersville in the Blue and Gold Tournament.

Dunk

Interview

GCL

Blue Consolation

Lebanon vs Branson 9:30am
West Plains vs Willow Springs 11:00am (Approximate)

Gold Consolation

Hartville vs Reeds Spring 12:30pm (Approximate)
Ava vs Greenwood 2:00pm (Approximate)

Follow along at home by clicking the link to launch the Cover it Live Blogging Window!

Sure, some of the college football bowl games have already been played, but the important games are still to come. That’s why I checked in with Uncle Rob, the shrewdest Vegas man I know and we are putting our picks side by side. Remember, these are for entertainment purposes, only)

Thursday, Dec. 22 (Today)
Las Vegas Bowl, Boise State vs. Arizona State
Uncle Rob — Boise State -14 1/2
Allen — Boise State -14 1/2

Saturday, Dec. 24
Hawaii Bowl, Southern Miss vs. Nevada
Uncle Rob — Southern Miss -7 1/2
Allen — Southern Miss -7 1/2

Monday, Dec. 26
Independence Bowl, Shreveport, La.
Mizzou vs. North Carolina
Uncle Rob — Mizzou -5
Allen — Mizzou -5

Tuesday, Dec. 27
Little Caesar’s Bowl
Ford Field, Detroit, Mich.
Western Michigan vs. Purdue
Uncle Rob — W. Mich. +3
Allen — W. Mich. +3

Belk Bowl
Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
Louisville vs. NC State
Uncle Rob — NC State +2
Allen — Louisville -2

Military Bowl
RFK Stadium, Washington DC
Toledo vs. Air Force
Uncle Rob — Toledo -3
Allen — Air Force +3

Holiday Bowl
Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego, Cal.
California vs. Texas
Uncle Rob — Texas -3
Allen —Texas -3

Thursday, Dec. 29
Champs Sports Bowl
Citrus Bowl Stadium, Orlando, Fla.
Notre Dame vs. Florida State
Uncle Rob — Florida State -3
Allen — Notre Dame +3

Alamo Bowl
Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas
Baylor vs. Washington
Uncle Rob — Baylor -10
Allen — Baylor -10

Friday, Dec. 30
Armed Forces Bowl
Ford Stadium, Dallas, Texas
Tulsa vs. BYU
Uncle Rob — Tulsa +3
Allen — Tulsa +3

Pinstripe Bowl
Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
Rutgers vs. Iowa State
Uncle Rob — Iowa State +1 1/2
Allen — Iowa State +1 1/2

Music City Bowl
LP Field, Nashville, Tenn.
Wake Forest vs. Mississippi State
Uncle Rob — Mississippi State -7
Allen — Mississippi State -7

Parkview's Taylor Harville

Taylor Harville is one of the most improved high school basketball players in the Ozarks. At 6-foot-7, you probably saw him playing with his back to the basket and not leaving the paint for the Parkview Vikings. But this year, he’s extended his game to the perimeter. It’s all a part of the Division I basketball plan as he will head to Taylor Harville to play at Drake University. Harville is averaging 8.8 points per game this season.

Normally, this is the part where we teast what we spoke about with Harville and introduce the video. But because of technical difficulities, we will bring you highlights from the interview.

TAGsgf.com: How has your game improved since people saw you last season?

Harville: Last year, I spent most of my time in the paint. But I’ve been including more perimeter and cutting to the basket, because that’s what I’m going to need to do at Drake because 6-7 isn’t that big there.

TAGsgf.com: How did you end up at Drake?

TH: They have the program I want to go into. … It’s nuclear physics. … I’ve always wanted to fix things and know how they work. They can help me get there. … For example, we can work on things like trying to fix the power plants (in Japan, destroyed by earthquakes.).

TAGsgf.com: Most athletes are typecast as jocks and not good at school, which is unfair, but do you ever feel like a science nerd who plays basketball? Does everyone know how smart you are?

TH: (Laughs) We all get along pretty well. I’m not that much smarter, I just like science.

TAGsgf.com: Your dad, Chris, played at Missouri State for Charlie Spoonhour. Are you an MSU fan and will it be weird to play against the Bears at Drake?

TH: No, I’m not really a big fan, so it won’t be weird. It will just be another team we need to beat.

TAGsgf.com: What do you do for fun?

TH: I like to fish. My grandpa is the one that taught me. He’s much better than I am.

TAGsgf.com: What else do you do for fun? Music? Movies?

TH: My favorite TV show is The Big Bang Theory. I really like science…

Hillcrest junior guard Austin Petrey

Most quality Class 4 or 5 programs don’t ever need to call on a freshman to start. But that’s what’s happened to Hillcrest High School guard Austin Petrey, and he hasn’t looked back since.

Thrown into starting duty as a freshman, Petry has continued to be a big part of Hillcrest’s basketball resurgence, helping the Hornets win the Class 4 championship in 2010 and another playoff berth in 2011.

But now as a junior, more is expected from the 6-foot-1 Petry than ever. Sure, Dorial Green-Beckham gets all the attention, but it’s possible Petry is the Hornets’ most important player. He’s a versatile wing who can shoot and take the ball to the bucket — he averaged 7.6 points, 2.7 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game as a sophomore — but is on the record in the following video as loving defense.

TAGsgf.com caught up with Petry and discussed DGB as a 4th grader, Wale and his latest prank, one that involves free water and drive-thru windows.

Glendale senior Blake Freedman

Glendale High School senior Blake Freedman is a bit of a throwback.

He’s not equipped with a sniper-like long-range jumper like the rest of his Falcon teammates, but he can score when necessary. He’s not tall (5-foot-10), but he’s adept at scoring in the paint because of his motor won’t allow him to stop cutting to the basket. As a junior, Freedman averaged 9.3 points, 4.3 rebound and 4.3 assists per game. While those aren’t jump-off-the-page numbers, he’s been described as the heart and soul of Glendale’s attack this season.

The Falcons are off to a 4-2 start and are coming off an 81-65 victory over Branson and the Falcons are gearing up for a tough schedule, including a berth in the Bass Pro Tournament of Champions.

TAGsgf.com’s Allen Vaughan caught up with Freedman to discuss his team’s lack of height, being called out by opposing student sections and Jennifer Aniston.

Video interview with Blake Freedman

Freedman highlights

SGF native Alex Hall is working his way into a Drury great. (Photo courtesy Drury University)

Every time Alex Hall bangs a 3-pointer for Drury University, it’s a spectacular victory for SGF basketball. The SGF native has become the face of the Drury basketball program, one that has not only taken steps to become a member of one of Division II’s toughest leagues — the Great Lakes Valley Conference — but a perennial NCAA Division II Tournament team.

But the victory isn’t just because every deep 3-pointer pushes him toward the Panthers’ career scoring Mount Rushmore, but because it’s tough to not think about how each of those highlights could have been for Missouri State.

That’s right. When Hall was scorching the Ozark Conference and the AAU circuit at Kickapoo High School, his college future was one of the worst kept secrets in the Ozarks. The 6-foot-1 guard had a scholarship offer to bring his lights-out jump shot to the Missouri Valley Conference and play for MSU coach Barry Hinson. Local journalists didn’t even write the “Where is Alex Hall going to play college ball” story because everyone knew he was going to be a Bear.  Everyone. Hall is a SGF boy, and he wanted it to stay that way. There was only one option. But when Barry Hinson, um, left MSU after 10 seasons, it changed everything.

Former MSU coach Cuonzo Martin.

“He didn’t think I was athletic enough,” Hall said, referencing former MSU coach Cuonzo Martin. Somehow the words out of his mouth aren’t bitter at all, but do motivate him, he admits. That’s where the headscratching begins. Sure, athleticism isn’t all verticality and quickness, but the way that Hall was able to score, he looked to be another quality local contributor to feast in front of the local crowd. Instead, Martin never offered Hall a spot on what would have been last year’s first MVC regular season crown.

All of a sudden, Hall found himself with only one true option. Sure, he could have taken up other schools on their offers — Saint Louis and others in the Valley — but his heart was still in SGF. That’s where Steve Hesser came in. The Drury coach had always let Hall know there was a spot for him, and even to hear Hall tell it, he was happy for the opportunity.

“I wanted to play at home. I didn’t want to move,” Hall said. “And it’s not like Division II isn’t a challenge. This level is tough.”

There’s the perception gap. It would be easy to assume there’s a huge step down from D-I to D-II. But ask GLVC rival, defending national champion and current No. 1 ranked Bellarmine who played a perennial NCAA Tourney team like Louisville to 8 this season. Sometimes talent is dictated by situation, not by level.

That’s what makes Division II basketball interesting. Situations don’t work out all the time. Some of the best D-II schools are full of D-I transfers. Hall is not really any different.

Drury men's basketball coach Steve Hesser

Although when he began, Hall made D-II look real easy. He scored 33 points in his first college game — draining 8 3-pointers. He finished as the GLVC’s Freshman of the Year and on the GLVC’s Second Team by scoring 16.6 points per game. As a sophomore, Hall was again a GLVC Second Team pick averaging 18.3 points per game. Barring something drastic happening, Hall is slated for the top 10 of the all-time scoring list. Through two seasons, his 1,048 points put him 34th, trailing Lonnie Holmes’ 2,341 and he seems a mortal lock to bypass all-time great Matt Miller’s 351 career 3s. Through two seasons, Hall has 198.

Hall isn’t a perfect player, by any means. While Hall can run, jump and shoot, his flexibility is limited, which hurts him on defense. He’s still finding an alternate offensive game when it’s he’s not open from the outside or when his jump shot isn’t falling. During the season opener against Southwest Baptist, he was held to just 3 points. It’s a function of having ridiculous freshman and sophomore seasons, with defenses adjusting accordingly.

“He’s a good player. He would be a contributor, maybe even a starter, on a mid-major team,” Hesser said. “We’re trying to get him to more consistent, but there’s no doubt he can shoot it. He’s a weapon.”

It turns out Hall is making his basketball impact on an SGF college after all. It just wasn’t the one everyone thought.

Drury’s December schedule:

• 12/3 — Vs. Maryville, 3:15 p.m.
• 12/7— At Missouri S&T, 7:30 p.m.
• 12/10 — At Texas A&M-Commerce, 3 p.m.
• 12/17 — Vs. University of St. Mary, 5 p.m.
• 12/30 — Vs. Southwestern College, 7 p.m.

I mean to do this all the time, but there’s a backlog of stuff I need feel compelled to comment on. Here goes.

* Don’t sweat last night’s Missouri State Bears loss to Oral Roberts too much. Sure, the Bears’ 68-63 loss at Oral Roberts isn’t encouraging, but we are learning more about this team all the time. What can we take away from the surprising Bears’ first loss? Their level of physical and mental toughness.

It never dawned on me that a Missouri Valley Conference team might be physically pushed around by a Summit Conference team, but that’s what happened. How many loose balls and rebounds did Oral Roberts seem to grab, especially Steven Roundtree (12 rebounds) and Michael Craion, a Kansas City Ruskin product (who played here in SGF against Central a few years ago)? Caleb Patterson, Isaiah Rhine and Christian Kirk aren’t the most physically imposing dudes. Couple that with the amount of scrap and hustle ORU showed, it made MSU look soft and disinterested, which we all know isn’t the case. When it comes time to mix it up with the big ‘tweener bodies in the MVC, hopefully MSU will have an answer.

On another note, the announced attendance at ORU was 3,352. Right, if you multiplied by 3. There’s no way there were more than 1,000 fans there, at least the way it looked on the Ozarks CW broadcast. We had some fun with Facebook, and this is what happened:

Here were the highlights:

• A public pool
• Milli Vanilli reunion conert
• Waffle House
• The WNBA Draft
• A Herman Cain sensitivity training seminar
• The original screening of Gigli
• A Kardashian marriage counseling session
• Hyvee
• A Bears baseball game
• A proctologist office
• Kansas Alumni Night in Columbia

And, the prohibitive winner (at least it was my favorite):

For more fun on Facebook, join the party at Facebook.com/TheHighRoadShow.

Kimbo Slice will be in SGF in February.

* Don’t try to compare Kimbo Slice to B.J. Flores, and vice versa. There has been a lot of speculation about SGF’s emerging/blossoming/interesting boxing scene. After there were no major professional boxing fights in SGF for years, there are now two within two weeks of each other, when B.J. Flores will have a fight on Jan. 28 at the Shrine Mosque (no opponent announced, yet) and Internet street fighting sensation Kimbo Slice at Drury’s O’Reilly Family Event Center (no opponent announced, either) on Feb. 11.

Some are trying to diagnose why there are two cards so close to each other. While this week, Wes Slay of Slay Promotions made it clear that he and Flores are no longer working together, I think people need to calm down and not read too much into the situation. Even if there is beef — which neither has gone on record about, yet — Instead, they should enjoy it, and not get caught up in the truth of the following statement:

“There has never been a more well-known fighter come through Springfield … than Kimbo Slice,” Slay said. “He will be by far the biggest celebrity, from a sports perspective, that’s ever fought (in Springfield).”

Think about it. The entire narrative of Flores’ return was to make it his personal mission to earn a major championship fight, and pave that road here in SGF. So far, so good for the Willard native, since he’s 2-0 with a TKO and a decision here in SGF. But don’t feel like you have to choose Flores over Kimbo or vice versa. Slice is a novelty show. He’ll likely never fight for a heavyweight world title. He’s coming to town and it going to try to (legally) decapitate his opponent, not engineer an evening of the sweet science. You’re going to pay to watch it. So am I.

You don’t have to choose. Go to both. And think about it this way: If the Kimbo Slice fight makes money, imagine who else Slay and his company will bring. He keeps saying the OFEC is nicer than most of the venues in boxing. Now it’s time to see if it, and the Shrine Mosque, can contain two boxing events in two weeks.

More awards for DGB.

• Cardinals fans, it’s really time to get nervous about Albert Pujols: I won’t go on and on about this, but no matter what side of the fence you’re on, it’s almost put up or shut up time in the Albert Pujols sweepstakes. Whether you believe they should spend the cash elsewhere or invest the most money in franchise history in one player, the wheels will really begin spinning Monday when the Winter Meetings start.

I’m still on record as saying the Cardinals should pony up whatever it takes to sign Pujols, but the way the reporting is flowing, that number might be lower than anyone could have anticipated. Should be a fun week.

• Dorial Green-Beckham is named Missouri Gatorade Player of the Year: Duh. Click here to see why.

Central HS tight end Ernest Greenwood has a Division I future.

When you watch Central High School’s football team, it’s not hard to see Bulldog tight end/defensive end Ernest Greenwood. How can you tell? He’s the 6-foot-5, 225-pound junior that has the perfect blend of athleticism, explosion and soft hands for the offensive side, and quickness, tenacity and smarts on defense.

That’s why he’s getting recruiting letters from Missouri and Oregon, according to Central coach Ozzie Riley.

“He’ll definitely play at the next level,” Riley said. “It will probably be the top level.”

Greenwood played at Central as a freshman, but moved to Strafford as a sophomore and didn’t play. He moved back to Central, but didn’t get the right amount of practice time, forcing him to miss the season’s first few games.

But once he was eligible, he made an immediate impact. He scored a 60-yard TD on a fumble return in an overtime loss at eventual-district champion Glendale and a 28-yard TD pass in last week’s narrow loss to Parkview.

TAGsgf.com caught up with Greenwood to talk his football future, The Carter IV and entomology.

Glendale senior Trevor Vaughn

Well, while pulling away for 3 long TD runs, the myth needed to be accounted for. And according to Vaughn, it’s true. “I don’t want to use up energy I don’t need to,” said Vaughn, who rushed 17 times for 255 yards and 3 TDs, breaking runs of 76, 50 and 49 yards.

Vaughn’s efforts put an exclamation point on the Falcons’ 55-25 victory over Lebanon, that not only made senior night special, but gave the Falcons the Class 5 District 7 title. Of course, many remember when Parkview knocked Glendale out of the playoffs last season with a last-second field goal.

Scoring summary

Lebanon 6 9 3 7– 25

Glendale 14 7 7 27– 55

First quarter

GHS –Trevor Vaughn 76 run (Derek Roberts kick)

LHS –Brock West 16 run (run failed)

GHS –Cameron Johnson 9 pass from Will Rogers (Roberts kick)

Second quarter

LHS –West 1 run (run failed)

GHS –Rogers 1 run (Roberts kick)

LHS –FG Mitch Mather 31

Third quarter

LHS –FG Mather 32

GHS –Jared Hood 45 pass from Rogers (Roberts kick)

Fourth quarter

GHS –Jeremy Armstrong 21 run (Roberts kick)

GHS –Cody Jacobs 65 interception return (kick failed)

LHS –Jase Glenndenning 19 pass from Hayden Brackett (Mather kick)

GHS –Vaughn 50 run (Roberts kick)

GHS –Vaughn 49 run (Roberts kick)

Nixa QB Sam Rehagen

There are few better blends of skill and charisma than Nixa High School senior quarterback Sam Rehagen. The left-hander has helped Nixa to a 7-1 record, a No. 7 ranking in Class 5 and a 2-0 record in District 7.

He’s a three-year starter at defensive back, but it’s his first stab at being a full-time starter at quarterback. And, he’s excelling. Even though he sat out two games for an undisclosed suspension, Rehagen is 31-of-46 passing for 605 yards and 7 touchdowns. He’s also rushed 75 times for 341 yards and 4 TDs. And, as a salty DB, he has 27 tackles and 1 interception.

Before Nixa travels to Willard for a district game Friday, TAGsgf.com sports editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Rehagen to talk about southpaw QBs, T.I. and his way with words.

Branson senior running back Malachi Daniels

Branson High School has been blessed with great running backs throughout the years. Malachi Daniels fits right among the best.

The Pirate senior tailback crossed the thousand-yard threshold with a super-human performance against Parkview Friday, rushing 25 times for 282 yards and 4 TDs, including a 44-yard run on a draw play as time expired. On the season, he’s rushed 186 times for 1,287 yards and 10 TDs. It’s Branson’s fifth-consecutive victory after losing its first 3. The Pirates host Kickapoo in a huge Class 5 District 8 game Friday.

The 5-foot-9, 180-pound back said the recruiting process has been slow, but he’s the classic ‘tweener, who will probably play at a school/level above his size, but one that fits his skill. He’s a strong runner with great vision and balance.

After Branson’s 28-14 victory over Parkview, TAGsgf.com sports editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Daniels to talk about recruiting, his favorite running backs and why Branson is on such a roll.

Glendale High School senior wide receiver Cameron Johnson's seems to get better with every game.

You know, if it wasn’t for Dorial Green-Beckham, everyone would be freaking out about Glendale High School senior Cameron Johnson.

It’s not just that Johnson is the Falcons’ leading receiver with 21 catches for 443 yards and 7 TDs  but it’s a blend of his back story, his size and his attitude. See, Johnson didn’t play high school football until his junior season. He has junior high experience, but thought he’d focus on basketball. After Glendale coach Joel Heman talked him into it, he showed flashes of greatness.

This year, he’s been trying to work on changing those flashes into one long light show. He has the size at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, and is athletic enough to either outrun larger defenders or outleap smaller ones.

Most importantly, the Falcons are 5-2 and head to Willard for a district game. Currently, the Falcons are 1-0 in their district. TAGsgf.com sports editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Johnson to talk about his progress as a reporter, his relationship with DGB and his love of the Philadelphia Eagles.

Glendale WR Cameron Johnson

Ozark QB David Salazar

When he was younger, David Salazar remembers Ozark football glory. Now that he’s the guy taking snaps from the shotgun, he’s ready to take the Tigers into more glory days.

A true dual-threat spread quarterback, the 5-foot-11 junior has Ozark off to a 4-2 start heading into tonight’s game at Glendale. In his first year as a starter, Salazar is 22-of-47 passing for 523 yards, 4 TDs and 2 interceptions, but also has rushed 51 times for 472 yards and 4 TDs.

TAGsgf.com caught up with Salazar to talk Nixa, being a Raiders fan and playing on Ozarks’ new stadium turf.

Coming into Friday night’s matchup with Lebanon High School, Kickapoo junior John Fuchs had only rushed for 160 yards. And in a 34-14 victory over the Yellow Jackets, Fuchs didn’t just see an increase in his responsibility, he became the focal point of the offense.

How good was Fuchs? He rushed for 206 yards and 4 TDs on 24 carries — 19 in the second half. The Chiefs used his momentum and two costly Lebanon turnovers on the kicking game to turn the tables on a halftime Lebanon lead and shut the Yellow Jackets out in the second half. Kickapoo scored 26 unanswered points to end the game.

But none of it would have happened without Fuchs. On a night where starting quarterback Alex Lawson had to be removed from the game after suffering a right arm injury, Fuchs stepped up into a role perfectly suited for him. The junior tailback had 10 carries of 10 yards or more, and as a team, Kickapoo outrushed Lebanon 259-256, not an easy task since Lebanon primarily runs a Wildcat-type offense.

After falling behind 14-7 at halftime, the Kickapoo defense was rude, keeping Lebanon from scoring. The victory lifts Kickapoo to 5-1 on the season and Lebanon falls to 1-2.

Scoring summary

Kickapoo 34, Lebanon 14

Lebanon      7       7       0       0  — 14
Kickapoo    0       7       6       20 — 34

First quarter

LHS — Brock West 5 run (Mitch Mather kick)

Second quarter

KHS — John Fuchs 16 run (Mitch White kick)

LHS — Quinton Randolph 11 run (Mather kick)

Third quarter

KHS — Fuchs 11 run (kick failed)

Fourth quarter

KHS — Fuchs 23 run (Anthony Cooper pass to Nick Nedoma)

KHS — Fuchs 1 run (kick failed)

KHS — Nick Nedoma 6 run (White kick)

Stat geekage

Kickapoo

John Fuchs, sophomore RB — 24 carries, 206 yards, 4 TDs
Nick Nedoma, senior RB — 8 carries, 48 yards, TD
Alex Lawson, senior QB — 4 carries, 3 yards’ 2-for-6 passing, 30 yards

Lebanon

Brock West, junior RB — 22 carries, 107 yards, TD
Andrew Horsley, senior RB — 12 carries, 79 yards
Josh Shockley, senior RB — 7 carries, 48 yards
Quinton Randolph, junior RB — 3 carries, 24 yards, TD

Check out our video interview with John Fuchs below.

Dean Deetz

Nixa High School senior running back Dean Deetz burst on the scene last year, scoring 10 touchdowns and becoming a household name on a good Eagle football team. But this year, he’s not sneaking up on anyone — and the numbers still look good.

The Eagles are 4-1 as they head into district play this week against Neosho (yes, the school is in that wacky 5-team district) and Deetz has been another weapon on offense. So far this season, Deetz, who is also an all-conference baseball pitcher, has rushed 83 times for 490 yards and 5 TDs. Yes, that means he’s on pace to score 10 more TDs.

TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Deetz to talk speed, Ozark and how his teammates like both rap and country music.

Kaleb Haeffner

In a very quiet way, the Kickapoo High School defense has built a reputation over the last few seasons as a stingy squad. And this year, nothing has changed it.

Despite giving up 42 to an explosive Glendale offense, the Chiefs have only allowed 43 points in their four victories. And senior inside linebacker Kaleb Haeffner is a big part of that. The 5-foot-10, 180-pound senior battled for the team lead in tackles last season, and is close to doing the same again with 34 tackles — which is a tough task with an experienced and talented linebacking corp.

With a huge game coming up against Lebanon tonight, TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Haeffner at a recent practice to discuss Lebanon’s running backs, the mindset of a linebacker and what it’s like to be a Dallas Cowboys fan in SGF.

Hillcrest senior Dorial Green-Beckham caugh 12 passes for 217 yards and 2 TDs against Camdenton.

Everyone shows up to the Hillcrest High School football games to see Dorial Green-Beckham catch the ball — a lot. On Friday night against Camdenton, he didn’t disappoint, but it’s the pattern and the game plan that leads to how the Hornets beat the Lakers 31-21 at Shumate Stadium.

The No. 1 recruit in the country finished with a eyebrow-raising 12 catches for 217 yards and two TDs during the Hornets’ home opener, but nine of the grabs came in the first half and helped the Hornets keep pace with the Lakers. Once the Laker defense tried to gang up on DGB, the rest of his teammates got involved.

Matt Futrell had a solid game in Hillcrest’s first Friday night game after a Saturday game on ESPNU, a Thursday exhibition at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Ark. and another Saturday game against Joplin High School. The senior quarterback was 21-of-41 passing for 383 yards, 2 TDs and an interception, as well as a rushing TD on a quarterback sneak. After starting 2-for-9, he finished 19-for-32, mostly spreading the ball around to other receivers. Futrell’s first 6 completions were to DGB, but as the defense got familiar with that game plan, the rest of the Hornet receivers went to work.

Junior tight end Jonah Hill finished with 4 receptions for 100 yards. In all, Futrell completed passes to 6 different receivers. It helped erase the problems created by the 13 penalties for 110 yards .

Camdenton had problems moving the ball, and stopping the Hornets. Junior running back Mickey Ward rushed 20 times for 82 and a TD. In all, Camdenton (1-3) rushed 42 times for just 125. It’s safe to say the Hillcrest defense played well.

Scoring summary

Camdenton 7       8       0       6 — 21
Hillcrest 9       7       8        7 — 31

First quarter
Camdenton — Murphy Ward 4 run (John Manning kick)
Hillcrest — Safety, bad punt snap out back of end zone
Hillcrest — Matt Futrell 42 pass to Dorial Green-Beckham (Chase Briscoe kick)

Second quarter
Hillcrest — Futrell 8 pass to DGB (Briscoe kick)
Camdenton — Cory Simpson 14 pass to Manning (Simpson pass to Cullen Carlock)

Third quarter
Hillcrest — Futrell 1 run (Jonah Hill run)

Fourth quarter
Hillcrest — Stuart Andress 20 run (Briscoe kick)
Camdenton — Ward 20 run (Pass failed)

Stat geekage

Hillcrest
Dorial Green-Beckham, senior wide receiver: 12 receptions for 217 yards and 2 TDs
Matt Futrell, senior QB: 21-of-41 passing, 383 yards passing, 2 TDs, Int., rushing TD.
Penalties: 13 for 11 yards

Camdenton
Mickey Ward, junior running back: 20 carries for 82 yards, 2 TDs
Cory Simpson, junior quarterback: 12-of-23 passing for 168 yards, TD, Int.
John Manning, senior wide receiver: 6 catches for 82 yards, TD

Video interview with Dorial Green-Beckham

DGB’s Week 4 Highlights

Catholic senior RB/LB Nick Gori

Nick Gori is the epitome of the Catholic High School football team. Talented. Versatile. Businesslike. The senior running back is a destructive piece of a high-powered offense that’s scored more then 40 points in each of its three victories, but also a demolishing linebacker who will scoop up a loose ball or dislodge it from ballcarriers.

On offense, he’s highly underrated. While he’s just at part of a balanced attack, consider his first three games:

• 51-15 victory over East Newton – 17 carries for 110 yards, 2 TD
• 42-19 over Marshfield — 18 carries for 206 yards, 3 TDs
• 55-16 victory over Hollister — 7 carries for 80 yards, 3 TDs
• Season: 42 carries, 396 yards, 8 TDs

Gori is a soft-spoken individual, but he and the rest of the No. 5 ranked Fightin’ Irish have a huge task ahead of them Friday when they host Class 3′s No. 1 team, Rogersville. The two teams split last season, with each team winning on the road. TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Gori during practice to talk about his improvement, Mizzou football and plans after high school.

Interview with Catholic’s Nick Gori

Rogersville senior Dylan Cole is a beast.

There are few running backs that can match the production and charisma of Rogersville senior Dylan Cole. He’s big, he’s strong and he’s elusive, and he’s a big part of why the Wildcats are ranked as the No. 1 team in Class 3.

But what makes him so successful. Sure, he’s fast for a 6-foot-1, 210-pound frame, and has the right mix of agility and power when he runs, but he is not only quick to talk about how good it feels to break a big run, he’s also quick to give his offensive line credit. That’s what’s made him become one of the most complete players in the Ozarks, his ability — and willingness — to lead.

As a junior, he rushed 210 times for 1,492 yards and was a third-team All-State running back. He hasn’t missed a beat there this season, rushing 43 times for 276 yards and 7 TDs. And while it’s the offensive side of the ball that has made him a household name in the Ozarks, it’s his defense that might provide him a college career.

He’s an explosive athlete, who also excels at basketball and track and field, and all of it blends together to make him one of the best strong safety/linebacker hybrids in the state. He was a first-team All-State player as a junior, and it’s likely he’ll play Division I or FCS (Formerly Division I-AA) football as either a bulked up linebacker or strong safety. And he likes it that way.

“I like to hit people,” Cole said. “I like to hit people when I’m carrying the ball, too.”

TAGsgf.com sports editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Cole before the Wildcats’ big road test at Class 3 No. 5 ranked Catholic to talk about defense, becoming an engineer and his role as planner/emcee of Rogersville Pep Rallies.

Ozark native Lucas Harrell is back in the big leagues, and he had a great debut on Friday.

is back to the big leagues, and he’s making a great impression. Less than a month after being claimed off waivers from the Chicago White Sox, Lucas Harrell dazzled in his Houston Astros debut on Friday, tossing 5 1/3 scoreless innings in a start, striking out 4, walking 2 and allowing only 3 hits to the NL Central leading Milwaukee Brewers.

A free agent after the season, Harrell is putting his best foot forward. Since joining Houston’s organization, he not only has that stellar spot start to his credit, but in 9 starts for Triple-A Oklahoma City, Harrell was 5-2 with a 1.72 ERA and 38 strikeouts and 24 walks in 52 1/3 innings.

An Ozark native, Harrell was a recent guest on The High Road with Allen Vaughan, where he talked about his sinkerball, enjoying a team that is fighting for respect and playing time, and trying to bat against Zack Greinke.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here.

Secoy Hodges, Central running back

Central High School running back Secoy Hodges rushed for five opening-week touchdowns as the Bulldogs routed Life Academy. The junior spent the offseason as a gym rat and the work has paid off in explosiveness. As a sophomore he got carries behind Fernando Minnis, but now Hodges is the centerpiece in Central’s offense.

Glendale's Trevor Vaughn is the most versatile high school football player in the Ozarks.

With the NFL changing its rules on kickoff returns, and frustrating fans across the country, Glendale High School senior Trevor Vaughn reminded us why it’s the most exciting play in football.

Vaughn, who missed more than half of last season with an broken collarbone, returned three kickoffs for touchdowns, including the first play of the 2011 season. The yardage looked like this: 93, 92 and 68 yards — and he did them all in different ways. He knifed through the D, he took them to the sideline, and he nearly touched both sidelines one one return.

“I don’t know how it happened,” Vaughn said. “I just had it going.”

But, there is more to Vaughn’s game than just kickoff returns – much more. In Glendale’s 50-37 Week 1 victory over Joplin, Vaughn played in every play. How? He’s not just the kickoff returner, he’s the Falcons’ starting tailback and cornerback, but he also kicks off and kicks PATs. And when Week 1′s game was over, he racked up 546 total yards, including kickoff returns, yards from scrimmage and a 50-yard touchdown pass.

“I want to play every down,” Vaughn said. “I think that’s why I’ve been so successful, is I take every play seriously and play my hardest.”

TAGsgf.com sports editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Vaughn during a recent practice to discuss his versatility, college recruiting and Madden.

Glendale WR Cameron Johnson had 4 TDs Friday night, 3 receiving and the other via interception return.

Every time it looked like Joplin was going to extinguish Glendale, the Falcons fought back — and they did it in fascinating fashion.

The Falcons got 4 touchdowns from senior wide receiver Cameron Johnson — one on defense — and senior Trevor Vaughn ran back three kickoff returns for touchdowns as Glendale erased a late 12-point deficit to beat Joplin 50-37 Friday night in Springfield.

Actually, it looked and felt bleak for Glendale (1-0, 1-0 Ozark Conference) after Joplin took a 30-18 with 4 minutes left in the third quarter. No one could have known Glendale was going to score 32 points in the final 16 minutes — not even Johnson.

Sure, the 6-foot-4, 210 pound senior credited his teammates and his strength and conditioning coaches, saying how his summer training paid off, but an increase in football-specific skills doesn’t hurt.

See, Johnson doesn’t remember how many touchdowns he had last season, but looking stronger and faster, he had the game-tying and the go-ahead scores just 11 seconds apart from each other at the beginning of the fourth quarter. He caught a 17-yard pass from quarterback Will Rogers, and then intercepted a pass from Joplin QB Gabe Sachetta and returned it 28 yards for a score. It was his first career interception.

Johnson finished with five catches for 133 yards and 3 TDs, but he wasn’t alone in wooing the older offensive weapon to explode. Senior tailback Trevor Vaughn finished with 3 kickoff returns for touchdowns (93, 92 and 68), a 50-yard touchdown pass to Johnson, 19 carries for 50 yards and 3 catches for 53 yards.

Scoring summary

Glendale (1-0) 12 6 6 26 — 50
Joplin (0-1) 7 14 9 7 — 37

First quarter

GHS — Trevor Vaughn 93 kickoff return (kick failed)
JHS — Gabe Sanchetta 21 pass to Jordan Wood (Josh Banwart kick)
GHS — Vaughn 50 pass to Cameron Johnson (pass failed)

Second quarter

GHS — Will Rogers 33 pass to John Watson (pass failed)
JHS — Chris Payton-Barba 9 run (pass failed)
JHS – Sachetta 13 pass to Wood (Banwart kick)

Third quarter

JHS — Safety (Glendale tackled in end zone)
JHS — Sachetta 21 pass to Wood (Banwart kick)
GHS — Vaughn 92 kickoff return (kick failed)

Fouth quarter

GHS — Rogers 17 pass to Johnson (pass failed)
GHS — Johnson 28 interception return (pass failed)
GHS — Rogers 7 pass to Johnson (Rogers pass to Johnson)
JHS — Brian St. Peter 1 run (Banwart kick)
GHS — Vaughn 68 kickoff return (pass failed)

Lessons Learned

• Cameron Johnson might have the most potential of any player in the Ozarks. Let me explain. Johnson’s story is well documented, but he gave up on football until last year. Now it should be his future. At 6-foot-2, 200-something pounds, he has the size and the speed. But what he showed Friday was the coming-out party many were hoping for. He ran crisp routes, the best of which showed on a post during a halfback pass. One wrong step and he’s blanketed by the corner, rather than leaving him in the dust. But more importantly, it’s his instincts. Playing free safety, he had his first career interception, and then used his size and speed to take it to the end zone. I haven’t seen a 40-yard dash time, but he has the talent to be a Division I wide receiver. Wonder if Mizzou is paying attention…

• Trevor Vaughn is the best kick returner I’ve ever seen at the high school level. Not only does he have the speed to embarrass the kick coverage team, and the vision to dissect the field, but he has a relentlessness that is hard to find. He doesn’t look like he’s ever tackled, or at least he doesn’t think he is. He had 3 (!) kickoff returns for TDs, but two of them stood out. (I know, the first one was sick, too) He looked to be caught on the sideline, did the Reggie Bush stop-and-start move, then seemed to hop over a guy. The speed then took over. On the final score of the game, he ran to one side of the field, then pulled a Dante Hall and reversed field completely, gaining the edge and burning them with the speed. Very impressive. He’s likely the most versatile athlete in Class 5. He finished with 396 total yards, when you total up his kickoff returns, carries as a halfback, receptions as a receiver and passes as a QB.

• Alex Lawson is going to be a good quarterback. Heck, he already is. After being thrown into the fire, the junior was 19-of-28 for 180 yards and three TDs passing, plus adding in a rushing TD during his six carries for 24 yards in his first career start. Many of the patterns were designed for short, simple throws, but the TDs were long loopers, all of 14 yards or more. And it had to be a nice moment for his grandfather, Benny, to be calling the plays. Benny Lawson, a longtime coach, is Kickapoo’s offensive coordinator.

• Joplin has a nice team, and will have success once it gets Johnson and Vaughn out of its rearview mirror. Defensively, the Eagles were solid, save for three kickoff returns and an interception return for a TD. Take that away and it’s a 37-26 victory. But more importantly, they were playing football. It’s hard for many of us to comprehend what Joplin natives have been through. And the Glendale fan base recogniezd that. There were many fundraisers — funnel cake sales, halftime games, etc. — all benefiting the Joplin athletic department. It was a nice gesture, and then after the game — even after the mandatory shaking of hands — Glendale’s players went back toward Joplin’s players and coaches and shook hands again. Very classy.

Stat Geekage

Glendale 50

Cameron Johnson, senior wide receiver/safety, 5 catches, 133 yards, 3 TDs; 28-yard interception TD return
Trevor Vaughn, junior running back, 3 kickoff returns for TDs (93, 92, 68), 19 carries for 50 yards, 3 catches for 43 yards, a 50-yard TD pass — 396 all-purpose yards
Will Rogers, junior quarterback, 11-of-17 passing, 189 yards, 2 TDs, Int; 4 carries, 19 yards

Joplin 37

Gabe Sachetta, junior quarterback, 14-of-22 passing, 172 yards, 3 TDs, Int; 17 carries, 118 yards
Chris Payton-Barba, junior running back, 21 carries, 111 yards, TD; 3 catches, 18 yards
Jordan Wood, senior wide receiver, 5 catches, 119 yards, 3 TDs

Video interview with Glendale’s Cameron Johnson

Gone are the days of the Wing T offense on Friday nights at Parkview High School. The squeezed-tight, confusion strategy left as new head coach Anthony Hays takes over the program. “I wouldn’t even know where to begin,” Hays says about orchestrating the Wing T. Also gone is SGF record-setting tailback Darin Francis (most rushing TDs in SGF history). It opens the door for junior Cole Jenkins, receiving a lot of buzz heading into the 2011-12 campaign.

Jenkins said it could be hard to find to holes in the Wing T because running backs couldn’t see where openings would be. Whereas in the new, spread-out offense, vision is key. “It’s my favorite [style of] offense to play,” he says, “you can see the holes and how things are developing in front of you.” Describing himself as a power back with breakaway speed, Jenkins is poised. The new-look Vikings open tonight at home against Rolla.

Dorial Green-Beckham is the nation's top football recruit. Photo by Alex Stocksdale/TAGsgf.com

Dorial Green-Beckham is unlike anything the Ozarks has ever seen. The Hillcrest High School senior wide receiver is bigger than everyone around, faster than guys shorter than him and quicker than guys bigger than him (if that even exists). It’s a huge reason he was ranked by Rivals.com as the nation’s top college prospect.

But as we wander into this uncharted territory when Hillcrest takes on Seneca on ESPNU Saturday, and all the national attention, many still have questions about his situation. That’s what the DGB FAQ is for.

What you need to know about Dorial Green-Beckham

Where is he going to attend college?

That’s the (multi) million dollar question. The Beckham family is doing a great job of keeping that a secret. He has a scholarship offer from every school that matters in the country. His Rivals.com recruiting profile is ridiculous. He’s not the only legit recruit that’s leaving schools hanging, but with that, he has every school in the country thinking it has a shot.

The names that come up the most are Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Alabama. But at a press conference earlier this week, DGB’s father, John Beckham, who is also the Hornets’ head coach, said that proximity isn’t an issue. Rather, it’s how easy is it to get somewhere. For instance, he said there is a direct flight from Branson to Austin, Texas. That’s easy. A 3-connection flight from SGF isn’t.

What is important to him when choosing a college?

Is Arkansas quarterback a good enough draw for DGB?

He’s not for sure what he wants to do as a profession (outside of football, potentially), but he’s not revealing what type of program he’s looking for. Every one provides something different.

Alabama has shown it can win national championships with a balance offense and still produce a first-round wide receiver without spread-offense type of numbers (Julio Jones, who DGB has met).

Arkansas has a young stud QB in Tyler Wilson, and has proven it can make BCS bowls, as it did last year. Coach Bobby Petrino has visited SGF and featues a dynamic offense.

Missouri has put together an impressive list of NFL draft picks recently, and features a volatile offense. And, if DGB stays in state, he would become an instant legend statewide. And, Mizzou has emerged as a perennial Top 20 school.

Oklahoma has tradition, as well as a spread offense. While Heisman candidate Landry Jones will be gone, Oklahoma is always in the national spotlight and they have moved toward a spread scheme. And, it’s Oklahoma, one of the most tradition-rich schools in the country.

When asked about what was important to him, he stayed generic, citing good facilities, coaches and how the other players made him feel.

The answer to this question is: No one knows.

When will he make his decision?

DGB isn’t in a rush. He spent the summer nursing a hamstring injury, and when mixed with his brother Darnell’s ongoing recovery from leukemia, the family didn’t take as many visits as it normally would. But, he’s in an enviable position. Every school wants him, and will take him, regardless of the time frame.

You’re telling me that if he waits until Feb. 1, and even goes on ESPN or ESPNU and does the hat-choosing ceremony, that a team wouldn’t be ecstatic about it? He’s got nothing but time, and said earlier this week he’s not going to make a decision until well after the football season, because he wants to be able to take a few more visits.

Why is he so good?

Many compare DGB to former Alabama WR Julio Jones

Sure, he’s the nation’s top prospect, but what is it that makes him dominant? It starts with his size and physique. He’s 6-foot-5 1/2, “Almost 6-6. Close enough,” he said this week. But it’s not just his height, but it’s his physique. He already weighs 220 pounds. The aforementioned Julio Jones, the No. 6 pick by the Atlanta Falcons and former Alabama receiver, is 6-3, 220 — at 22 years old. DGB is 18.

And when you combine his athleticism, it’s a lethal combination. A state champion in track and field, he has a recorded 4.43 40-yard dash. As a basketball player, he’s shown good hands and footwork. When you factor in his ability to pulverize a defender, or make him miss, it’s uncanny.

To show you, here are a few highlight tapes.

Detroit Lions WR Calvin Johnson

Who does he compare to?

Jones is the obvious comparison, in skill, size and athleticism. And when it comes to comparisons, there aren’t many. Most star NFL receivers are closer to 6-foot than 6-5. Randy Moss is 6-4, but doesn”t weigh 200 pounds.

The closes answer is probably Calvin Johnson, a fifth-year receiver for the Detroit Lions. He’s 6-5, 236 right now as a 25-year old, and uses his size and speed as a deep threat and a red zone target. At his NFL Combine, Johnson ran a 4.33 40. Yes, he’s a freak. And yes, that’s who DGB compares to.

Will he make state records his forever?

Yes. As of now, he is the state’s career leader in receiving touchdowns, yards and average yards per game, and has the top two single seasons for receiving yards. In three seasons, has 180 catches for 4,165 yards and 51 TDs. Dominant players are going to have to play 5 seasons just to catch up to him.

Here is the breakdown:

Most career yards

1. Dorial Green-Beckham, Hillcrest, 2008-10, 4,165
2. Erick Roe, West Platte,2003-07, 4,057

Most career receiving TDs

1. Dorial Green-Beckham, Hillcrest, 2008-10, 51
2. Erick Roe, West Platte, 2003-07, 49
3. Eric Anderson, Cameron, , 2003-05, 49

Most receiving yards, single season

1. Dorial Green-Beckham, Hillcrest, 2010, 1,714
2. Dorial Green-Beckham, Hillcrest, 2009, 1,616
3. Dane Kolkmeyer, Joplin, 2008, 1,574

Receiving Yards Per Game (minimum 25 games)

1. Dorial Green-Beckham, Hillcrest, 2008-10, 122.5
2. Eric Anderson, Cameron, 2003-05, 99.4

Here are what his career numbers look like through 34 games:

Freshman (2008): 38 catches, 835 yards, 13 TDs
Sophomore (2009): 63 catches, 1,616 yads, 23 TDs
Junior (2010): 79 catches, 1,714 yards, 15 TDs

Total: 180 catches, 4,165 yards, 51 TDs

Dorial Green-Beckham is Rivals.com's top recruit for 2012

Is he overrated? (Other national WRs)

After looking at his results, and the way that he projects as an athlete, it’s impossible. In the 2012 class, there is only one other receiver who is as tall as DGB, and he weighs 20 pounds less. He’s already a grown man, and as long as he keeps his speed as he gains mass, he’ll be an all-time great.

But, we all know that many talented players haven’t lived up to expectations. Why? Because of the intangibles. That’s what we don’t know. Is he tough enough? Will he stay out of trouble? Will he let the hype get to his head once he steps on a college campus? Will he be a good student? Those are all wait-and-see propositions. But still, the potential is there to be a professional football player.

Wait, did you just say he can be a pro?

Uh, yeah. If he’s the top recruit in the country, that means he doesn’t just have a shot to be a pro, but it means he should be a pro. That’s a lot of pressure to handle. That’s a long time from now, but imagine him going in the top 10 of the NFL Draft four years from now. How much pride will you have? I know I’ll feel it.

Is Hillcrest going to be any good?

Does it really matter? You should go to watch Hillcrest as often as you can. If you haven’t seen him play, you should do it at least once. The problem is, it might not be on a Friday and it might not be at Hillcrest. Here’s the Hornets’ schedule.

• Sat., Aug. 27 — vs. Seneca at Missouri Southern State College (on ESPNU)
• Thursday, Sept. 1 — Rogers (Ark.) Heritage at Razorbacks stadium
• Sat., Sept. 10 — At Joplin
• Friday, Sept. 16 — Home vs. Camdenton
• Thurs., Sept. 22 — Home vs. Glendale
• Friday, Sept. 20 — At Waynesville
• Friday, Oct. 7 — Home vs. Rolla
• Friday, Oct. 14 — Home vs. West Plains
• Friday, Oct. 21 — At Marshfield
• Thursday, Oct. 27 — Home vs. Republic

To answer the question about the Hornets, they are expected to make the playoffs again. Last year, the Hornets won their first playoff game in school history. A deep playoff run isn’t likely, but when you have a talent like DGB, not only are there many questions, there are many jawdropping moments.

Don’t miss out on any of them.

Kickapoo QB Alex Lawson gets ready to unload a pass.

There are few football players in the Ozarks that understand expectations better than Alex Lawson.

Maybe it’s because he was groomed to be the starter this year by being given a few series last season. Maybe it’s because he thinks and says respectful things when the cameras and recorders are on. And maybe it’s because his grandfather is one of the area’s most respected football coaches.

See, last season, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound Lawson moonlighted at QB, grabbing a series or two from the starter Brett Diers. It was a clear sign that Lawson was the future, and when Diers was suspended for the final two games of the season, Lawson took the reins. In limited time, Lawson threw for 200 yards and ran for 55, showing his ability to be a true dual threat. With a new head coach in Joel Wells and a new offense, no one is sure what Lawson’s numbers might look like. Still, it’s his disposition that people are impressed with.

As you can tell from the video interview below, Lawson is a composed young man, and that calm is invaluable in the huddle. Where that calm comes from, it’s not easy to say, but it’s easy to see the influence and experience of having a 40-plus high school coaching veteran like Benny Lawson as a grandfather — and a Kickapoo assistant coach.

New coach. New QB. Smart football bloodlines. It will be a fascinating year at Kickapoo as the Chiefs open up the regular season with a home game against Waynesville on Friday, looking to get back to the playoffs after a 4-6 2010 season.

Lawson talked to TAGsgf.com about the new offense, his football famous grandfather and staying out of trouble.

Mardy Gilyard

There are few athletes who can speak like St. Louis Rams wide receiver Mardy Gilyard. A fourth round pick in the 2010 draft after becoming an All American, Gilyard’s rookie season wasn’t as glamorous as anyone had expected.

But after an offseason where he dropped his weight to 177 and cut his body fat to 3.3 percent, Gilyard said he’s worked on the mental parts of the game and hopes to make an impact. He was a recent guest on The High Road with Allen Vaughan where he discussed rumors of how he won’t make the team, compared Josh McDaniels’ offense to ice cream and shined some light on the new nicknames he’s handed out to teammates.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here.

How much will reports of Shelby Miller's alcohol related suspension impair his public image in SGF?

Shelby Miller’s squeaky clean image just took a hit.

The St. Louis Cardinals‘ first-round pick in 2009 who collected a $2.875 million signing bonus was suspended for a violation of team rules, according to the club and first reported by the Springfield News-Leader and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. But as we all know from covering sports, team rules can mean many things — many very interesting things.

The News-Leader’s account pointed out the organization’s deceit. Reporter Kary Booher said the team initially told the media Miller was missing a start as a way to keep his innings total lower. But, as it turns out, Miller was actually suspended. Oops.

The, the P-D’s Rick Hummel (a Hall of Famer) came in an dropped a bomb reporting the following:

According to a couple of sources familiar with the situation, the incident involved an altercation at an apartment complex in Springfield, with alcohol also being involved.

Sources said this was not the first such incidence for Miller. No teammates were involved.

Uh-oh. I’m sure news will come out about what exactly happened if there is a police report, but it will go a long way to knocking down the Golden Boy image Miller has cultivated for himself in his short tenure here in SGF.

Back in July we chronicled the impact Miller is having on the Cardinals organization and the fans here in SGF. In 13 starts, Miller is 7-3 with a 2.97 ERA and 71 strikeouts in 69 2/3 innings. The suspension isn’t expected to be long, but still, drunken apartment fighting (reportedly)?

Jackson

Coming into the 2011 season as Double-A, scouts and fans still weren’t sure what to make of shortstop Ryan Jackson. He’d hit all of 3 career home runs, never had an OPS of more than .731 and he fell to the 5th round of the 2009 draft because no one was sure he’d ever learn how to hit.

But he’s been a revelation all season long, currently flaunting career highs in nearly every statistical category with the Springfield Cardinals:

.278/.339/.422 10 HR, 69 RBIs, 30 doubles

And, he plays a slick shortstop, which coupled with the struggles of former SGF Cards Tyler Greene and Pete Kozma, might give him a shot at a legitimate major league future. Jackson was a recent guest on The High Road with Allen Vaughan and discussed his hitting prowess, what a road trip to Corpus Christi, Texas is like and his future within the organization.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here.

MSU football coach Terry Allen

The preseason news hasn’t been pleasant for Missouri State’s football team. Picked to finish last in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. A ton of new starters on offense, including having to replace a 4-year starter at quarterback and an All-American offensive lineman who is fighting for a starting spot in the NFL right now.

And with all of that said, MSU coach Terry Allen knows what he’s got himself into. You know, sometimes it’s fun to be the underdog.

Here is audio of Allen’s press conference from Media Day.

OK, not thorough enough for you? Here are a few highlights to listen for:

• He has the utmost respect for recently graduate Cody Kirby, but was quick to say how new Bears QB Trevor Wooden has more potential, size and escapability.
• He wasn’t shocked the Bears were picked to finish last at all. He said he understands it, and isn’t mad about it.
• Also, he said he’s not using the last-place pick as a motivational factor.

There are plenty of gems in here. Enjoy.

KOLR 10 weekend sports anchor Nick Carboni joined The High Road with Allen Vaughan to give us an update on the Price Cutter Charity Championship. And, to make it a true radio bit, he did it in his softest golf voice.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here. You can find Carboni’s work at OzarksFirst.com or follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/ncarboni.

Before Ian Starnes turned into an early favorite to become a starting wide receiver on Missouri State’s men’s basketball team, he was a Glendale quarterback who helped the Falcons to a playoff berth. After being recruited by Division I schools, and traveling the nation to participate in elite camps, the 6-foot-5, 210-pound senior committed to his hometown team, the MSU Bears.

And now, it’s paying off.

The SGF native was a recent guest on The High Road with Allen Vaughan where he talked about not only the football side of things, plus his thoughts on MSU’s recent preseason downer (picked last in the conference) and how thanks to The High Road, he was made an example of when it comes to NCAA compliance.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here.

Jermaine Saffold

Many know Jermaine Saffold’s story. He transferred from a Division II school to Missouri State, enrolled as a walk-on, and three seasons later, he was a second-team All-Missouri Valley Conference wide receiver, hauling in 53 passes for 869 yards and 5 TDs.

Saffold is now a senior and the landscape has changed. Last year, expectations were high with an experienced team. Now, the Bears are an inexperienced group and were recently picked to finish last among the nine MVFC schools. And, Saffold is one of the leaders.

TAGsgf.com Sports Editor Allen Vaughan caught up with Saffold at Media Day to discuss how he’s improved his game, how expectations have changed and how he can’t believe he’s already a senior.

Talk about an underdog story. Despite only playing half of his senior season at Missouri State because of a series of concussions, and only had 54 tackles in four seasons, Kolby Hurt is in New Orleans starting training camp today. That’s right, after being wowed by his 4.51 40-yard dash time and his overall physical conditioning, Hurt is getting a crash course at fullback — a position he’s never played before.

The Boonville native said he’s a former high school running back, and has excellent hands. He joined The High Road with Allen Vaughan on Wednesday to discuss his history with concussions, how he considered not playing again and the fan-favorite potential of his last name.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here.

OG Wednesday: BJ Flores and the rest of Team Flores stop by in studio and the webcam lights up when BJ’s girlfriend, Amanda Latona shows up. Calm it down, roadies.

Episode: 7/20/2011

Original Gangster Wednesday

• In-studio interview: BJ Flores and the rest of Team Flores
  
• Boss of the Week (in the first segment)
  
• Phone lines
• Emails

Show sponsors

• Classics Sports Bar and Grill
• Balls N Strikes
• Sushi Smith
• The Wedge
• Bank of Urbana
• On the Ball Sports
• Clarity Insurance
• Fair City News
• Precision Muscular Therapy and Massage
• The UPS Store, 4319 S. National — owned by Wendell and Jackie Shaffer

Webcam everyday at TAGsgf.com

Listen to The High Road on Jock 98.7 FM Monday–Friday from 2-3 pm.

Listen live and podcast:

» Stream online at Jock987.com

» Watch webcam online at TAGsgf.com

» Subscribe to TAG Magazine’s ITunes feed for free podcasts of The High Road

Socialize:

» “Like” The High Road with Allen Vaughan on Facebook

» Follow Allen Vaughan on Twitter

Join the Conversation:

» Call (417)868.6100 between 2-3 M–F

» E-mail TheHighRoadShow@gmail.com

Brian Walton

Should the Cards acquire a relief pitcher? A starting pitcher? A shortstop? How good are Shelby Miller, Carlos Martinez and Matt Adams? With the Major League Baseball trade deadline on the horizon, there are few better than TheCardinalNation.com’s Brian Walton to talk about all things St. Louis Cardinals.

Walton was a recent guest on The High Road with Allen Vaughan where the two talked about everything involving the Cardinals, including prospects you should know about below Double-A Springfield. Walton has been a huge part of Scout.com’s Cardinals coverage and can be currently found at FoxSportsMidwest.com and has his own radio show every Friday at KXNO 1460 AM in Des Moines, Iowa.

You can stream the interview below, download it, or subscribe to the TAG Magazine ITunes feed by clicking here.