By Marla Jones, Sports Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

FYFFE, Ala. — On my fourth stop of this season’s Inside the Huddle, I visited with the State Championship-winning Fyffe Red Devils! 

Since I got in trouble for showing up late last year, I made sure to follow Coach Benefield’s motto of “if you’re early, you’re on time. If you’re on time, you’re late.” I actually beat him to practice this year. 

Coach Benefield and his staff are always eager to let me take the reins and help lead the practice. The Red Devils welcomed me, once again, with open arms. 

The Fyffe Football team finished the 2018 season with a perfect record and another blue trophy for their win at the State Championship. 

The Red Devils had a strict practice schedule throughout the summer because champions aren’t made overnight or in a couple of practices. “Stinkin’, rotten, and lazy players” don’t win championships. That’s according to Coach Benefield. I’m not sure if that comment was meant for press, but maybe he won’t make me run hills.  

Along with practices, Coach Benefield encourages his players to give back to the community that supports them. In July, the Fyffe football team helped with updating the Fyffe's special services playground and conducted last week's Champ Camp. 

The Red Devils boast four returning seniors this season.The team has five returning offensive starters and four returning on defense. 

Coach Benefield will return for his twenty-third season as Head Coach for the Red Devils.  His staff includes: Steve Edge (Defensive Line), Tim Cochran (Offensive Line), Brad Thomas (Defensive Backs), Jake Cameron, Brad Martin, Teddy Whitmire and last by not least, Marla Jones (Honorary Coach).  

Everyone always asks me after I visit Fyffe, “how does the team look?” I’m not much of a betting woman, but I can tell you one thing: I will never bet against the Fyffe Red Devils. My prediction for the Red Devils this season will be that they will be playing in the State Championship once again. They have the motivation and determination to bring home another blue trophy. Go Big Red!