Byrnes begins season No. 1 in SC, top 25 nationally

Photo by Joe L. Hughes II

Byrnes begins another season at the top of the heap in South Carolina, and joins elite company as one of the nation's top 25 teams, according to the RivalsHigh 100 preseason poll.

Again … it’s Byrnes.

Earning the respect of pundits nationwide by way of its dominance of the Palmetto State over the past decade, the Rebels will begin the season in a familiar spot — No. 1, in South Carolina at least.

Byrnes was featured Thursday in the RivalsHigh 100 countdown, a preseason poll listing the nation’s top 100 high school football programs coming into the 2011 campaign. The Rebels begin this season at No. 25 on the list.

Following an unexpected Class 4A Big 16 title run last year, Byrnes finished No. 40 in the RivalsHigh 100. It returns many cogs from that championship team, including running back Shakeem Wharton and wide receiver Akia Booker.

While the Rebels have become known for its endless cupboard of talent on offense, this year’s team may find its strength on the defensive side of the ball, according to RivalsHigh senior analyst Dallas Jackson.

“The defensive line — Doc Dillard, Von Ownes and Jamaa Johnson— is very good and the linebacker group — Melvin Armstrong, Marcus Mohrman and Travis Thomas— may be the most physical collection in a decade,” Jackson said. “This year’s team may not have as many Division I athletes, but definitely has a high number of very good high school football players.”

Though the squad begins on top, it also has its share of questions, beginning at the most important position — quarterback. Shuler Bentley will likely take the reins of Byrnes’ historically prolific offense, expected to follow the path of past Rebel signal callers in delivering a state title back to Duncan.

Joining the Rebels on the list are the likes of Goose Creek and Greenwood, ranked at No. 45 and No. 74, respectively.

To see RivalsHigh's full analysis of Byrnes, click here.