Extra Point Previews: Houston County Lions

COLUMBIA, Ala ( WDHN ) — Going into a new season, players are always told it’s just that, new—leave last season in the past. But after winning three straight to close out the season last year, the Houston County Lions are hoping to hold on to that winning feeling in 2024.

The Lions finished the season 5-5 overall, just missing a playoff spot in 1A Region 2. But now, things are different. They move up to 2A and bring in new head coach Tanner Harris, who is no stranger to Columbia. He was an assistant coach for the Lions under his dad, Chip Harris, back in 2021, and he’s glad to be back.

“It’s been great being familiar with everybody and all has helped out,” said Coach Harris. “And then when I was there as an assistant, I loved it. I missed the kids, I missed the people. So to be back now, I’ve loved every second of it. Enjoying it.”

But he’s not here to reminisce; he’s here to win football games, something the Lions have struggled to do since 2017, their last winning season.

“We talked about getting over the hump,” said Coach Harris. “The best two seasons they had, probably the best in the last seven years, is five and five. So we talk about getting over that hump and actually having a winning season. And like you said, they won the last three, so they had that taste of winning and all. We’re just trying to build on top of that, just kind of keep pushing forward.”

A lot of the Lions’ success last year came through Alabama State-committed running back and linebacker Azariel Todd. Now, going into his senior season, Harris expects big things from him.

“He’s had a terrific summer,” said Coach Harris. “Extremely coachable, hard worker in the weight room, great leader amongst his teammates. So we’re expecting a huge season out of him.”

A big theme for this Lions team is speed, and a lot of it. The Lions have two players in the backfield who competed on Houston County’s state championship 4×100 track team, Deyshaun Wynn at running back and Zykevious Culver at quarterback.

“Filled with speed, we got guys all over the place that can run,” said Coach Harris. “We see that there with seven on sevens, very athletic. We have not struggled in athleticism. It kind of goes to that speed.”

But the Lions are faced with the challenge of moving up a region, but it’s a familiar spot for Harris.

“When I was there the last time, that was our region,” said Coach Harris. “So I’m familiar with it. We’re excited to have Ariton and Cottonwood right off the bat. You know, we’re working our tails off, we want to be a playoff team. So, there’s no better way to see where you’re at as a program than to play the two best. It’s a tough test, but we’re excited about it and looking forward to it.”

The Lions open their season at Graceville (FL) on August 30th.

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