[Hoot Gibson]

Johnson Central's junior running back, Mason Lawson, should be among the top rushers this season. Last season, he ran for 812 yards and averaged 9.8 yards per carry. Dylan Preston, who rushed for 1,679 yards (11.5 yards/carry) last season graduated and Lawson should see a much heavier workload this year.

Not busting this kids bubble because i watched him play in person twice and he is a beast, however if preston is gone and i believe a few interior lineman as well (not for sure), can lawson step up as one of the best backs in the state. When everyone’s eyes are on one guy, preston, the others can shine as role players.

Johnson Central has always had a strong offensive line under Matney and I don't expect this season will be any different. Matney will do whatever it takes to get the ball to players who can make plays. With Grant Rice returning at quarterback and every running back who played significant minutes except for Preston returning, Lawson will put up big numbers if he stays healthy. JC's district has not been very strong, so it is very likely that Lawson will have a few games where he rushes for 200 yards or more.