ETSN.fm 2013 Preseason Class A/Private Poll: No. 8 Timpson

What a remarkable turnaround for the Timpson Bears in 2012. After not making the playoffs since 2003, Timpson reached the postseason and finished the year at 9-2 in head coach James Conway's first season at the helm.

Timpson actually began the season 8-0 and a big why was its stingy defense. On the season, the Bears 'D' held opponents to an average of 14.9 points per game. If Timpson is put up similar numbers in 2013, the Bears will need to replace six defensive starters.

Defensive backs Shakur Johnson and Terence Garrett are two names to keep an eye on, on Timpson's defense this season.

Expect the offense to make big strides with eight starters back. Timpson averaged a respectable 28 points a game last season, but that number is likely to go up thanks in large part to a talented group of returning linemen led by Dimric Caraway, Alberto Cuero and Ruston Bush. Colton McSwain (6-0, 215) returns as well after rushing for 700 yards and eight TDs in 2012.

The schedule sets up nicely for Timpson, which has defending District 9-A Division I champion Joaquin at home the second-to-last week of the season.