Marlboro County Palmetto Pigksin Preview

  For the past two years, Marlboro County has reached the 3A final four. Nine players from that group have signed with college or prep schools. When it all adds up, 35 seniors are gone and it's time for the Bulldogs to reload.
  The Bulldogs have two sure fire Division I prospects. Sammy Merriman made headlines with the news that he was moving to Benenttsville. Merriman is a two time WPDE All Zone linebacker who will team with one of the most recruited linebackers in the country. Lateek Townsend has offers from a long list of major D1's and he says he doesn't really have a top 5 as he is considering everyone who is showing interest in him. Clemson and Florida may have the edge - but Townsend is more excited to talk about teaming with Merriman at linebacker.
  “I feel like hitting somebody right now.  I know what’s going to happen on Friday nights,” Townsend said.  “I know that (Sammy) being a great linebacker and me trying to be a great linebacker is going to carry over onto the field.”
  Marlboro County's famed Black D gave up just over 8 points a game. As if the linebacking corps isn't deep enough, Dashon Hicks has All-Zone talent. Lateek's younger brother Brian Townsend takes over for Elliott Alford at quarterback. Malik Ford proved that he can make the big play at wideout. Ford was the Bulldogs second leading receiver and amazingly - 15 of his 23 catches last year were touchdowns.  The Bulldogs have had 9 or more wins in each of the last five years. The 2010 edition of Marlboro County hopes to keep that streak going.
  “Our goal every year to win the state championship,” head coach Dean Boyd said. “The last two years we fell short.  Hopefully this group sees that and is motivated to have the chance for their senior year to make it to the state championship.”