In Mark Bliss' first season at Ozark, the Tigers turned in a 7-3 record, but no playoff berth.  In season number two, Bliss hopes his squad is ready to take that next step.

HEAD COACH - Mark Bliss, 2nd Season

2011 RECORD - 7-3

RETURNING STARTERS - 6 offense, 7 defense

PLAYERS TO WATCH - Cody Lindsay (Sr. RB), David Salazar (Sr. QB), Seth Wheeler (Sr. QB)

The Ozark Tigers are not lacking in experience.  Mark Bliss' squad brings back 13 total starters and has a roster that features 22 seniors.  "A lot of our key players are back from last year and we expect a lot out of them," says the 2nd year coach.

One of those key players is senior runningback/linebacker Cody Lindsay.  He did it all for the Tigers last season, leading the team in both rushing and in tackles.  Lindsay teams with a talented quarterback combo of David Salazar and Seth Wheeler in what has the makings of an explosive offense.

If there's one area of concern for this team, it's in the trenches.  "We have some holes to fill on the offensive and defensive lines," said Bliss.  "Those first 2 or 3 weeks will be crucial to get the young guys playing time."

The Tigers finished with a 7-3 mark last season in the tough COC Large, and while they know that nothing in this conference comes easy, their coach thinks they could be primed for a special season.  "Our aspirations and goals are high and we hope to fulfill them.  The excitement is at an all-time high."

Ozark opens at home against St. Joseph Benton on August 24th.