CLEVELAND, Tenn. – Walker Valley High School head football coach Drew Akins says his Mustangs are just “inches away” from becoming an explosive offense as they gear up for their 2025 season opener Thursday night against cross-town rival Cleveland High School.

Akins, speaking on ESPN Cleveland 101.3, reflected on the team’s final preseason tune-up against Farragut. After falling behind 14-0 early, Walker Valley battled back to tie the game before finishing with a draw in the scrimmage. “Once we woke up, we tied them 14-14,” Akins said. “We’ve identified a few things that, if we fix, could make us great.”

One of the most talked-about additions to the team is new quarterback Chase, who transferred from Cleveland High School. Akins praised his strong arm, surprising mobility, and decision-making. “He’s done a great job protecting the football,” Akins noted, adding that Chase’s performance in the first four games will be key for his college recruitment prospects.

Defensively, the Mustangs return a wealth of experience, including All-Region secondary standouts Michael Wood and Aiden Burns, as well as a veteran linebacking corps of Caleb Jackson, Braylon Beard, and Tyler Goldman. Akins also highlighted linemen like two-year starter Lane Ferris, transfer Jonathan West, and playmaker Miles Hawk. “If our defense plays fast, they’re tough to go against,” Akins said.

Thursday night’s matchup marks the inaugural ESPN Cleveland 101.3 Community Kickoff, a new annual tradition celebrating local rivalries. Though scheduling quirks pushed the rivalry to Week 1, Akins says he’s looking forward to facing his longtime friend Chris Brown, now head coach at Cleveland. “We talk every day,” Akins said. “I love going against friends — win or lose, you walk across the field, shake their hand, hug their neck, and tell them you’re proud of them.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Cleveland High School, with coverage on Cleveland’s Oldies 99.1, ESPN Cleveland 101.3, and streaming on MixTV.tv.