Benjamin Russell poised for a big year

Samuel Higgs / TPI Benjamin Russell's Cederian Morgan (1) eludes the tackle of a Clay Central defender Friday night.

Last year, the Benjamin Russell football team faced its fair share of ups and downs. The Wildcats ultimately ended the year with an overall record of 5-6, finishing 4-2 in Class 6A Area Region 3, which earned them a No. 3 seed going into the playoffs.

Now, heading into this season, the schedule flips and the expectations are grand. As notable faces, newcomers and a new regime to lead the charge gear up for the start of the season — Benjamin Russell emerges as a top contender.