WHO TO WATCH
Columbus East quarterback Josh Major
The 5-foot-8, 150-pound sophomore likely will start at quarterback against Bloomington North since senior K.J. McCarter is recovering from a pulled hamstring and is questionable. Although Major saw a little action last season as a freshman, he has a big job running the offense as a virtual rookie.
Columbus East defensive lineman Quade Greiwe
The Olympians have lost several impact defensive linemen during the past two seasons and that unit will be looking for a leader as the 2015 season begins. Greiwe, a senior, appears to be the leading candidate for that job.
Columbus North linebacker Brice McDaniel
The man in the middle for the North defense is coming off an ankle injury from this summer and he has been limited in practice. He is an important piece of the Bull Dogs’ defensive puzzle, so it will be interesting to see how he performs against Franklin and whether he can roam sideline to sideline.
Columbus North tailback Mitchell Burton
After taking over the starting tailback spot late in the 2014 season, Burton served notice that he could be a star at the position. As the new season begins, he certainly won’t be a surprise to anyone and defenses will key in on stopping him. Can he keep it rolling?
QUICK STATS
Columbus East has gone 5-0 in its past five season-openers and has won 11 openers in a row overall. The Olympians have outscored their opponents 198-88 the past five seasons. This will be the fourth consecutive season that East opens against Bloomington North.
Columbus North has a 2-3 record in its last five season openers. In those five games, the Bull Dogs have scored 133 points to their opponents 132. This will be the first time North has played Franklin during head coach Tim Bless’ tenure, which has entered its 16th year.
TONIGHT’S SCHEDULE
Columbus East at Bloomington North, 7 p.m.
Columbus North at Franklin, 7 p.m.
Batesville at Jennings County, 7 p.m.
Brown County at Edinburgh, 7 p.m.
South Decatur at North Decatur, 7 p.m.
Silver Creek at Seymour, 7 p.m.
THE TOP
Leading returning rushers
K.J. McCarter, East, 105 carries for 643 yards
Mitchell Burton, North, 84 carries for 537 yards
Steven O’Neal, East, 63 carries for 513 yards
