Averett's big-play ability is the reason Woodbury is the favorite to defend its Colonial Patriot title, although perennial power Paulsboro will be in the mix as usual.
Under new coach Dom Koehl, Audubon also could be a factor in the race. Haddon Township has a new coach in Dave Dale, and Gateway has a new coach in Steve Duncan, while Lindenwold hopes to rebuild.
Paulsboro suffered a big loss when senior fullback/linebacker Eric McMullen moved to North Jersey. But the Red Raiders should be tough up front with veterans Austin Im and Shamsiddin Little. And Calvin Johnson is a big-play man at wide receiver and free safety.
Special teams also could be a strength for coach Glenn Howard's team, as the Red Raiders have a solid kicker and punter in junior Mike Maccarone.
Woodbury must rebuild both lines as the Thundering Herd relied heavily on their big men to capture the South Jersey Group 1 title in 2009, and the Colonial Patriot crown in 2010.
But the defending champions have big-play athletes in running backs Darrell Bush, Tyrone Bundy, and Jaray Demby, and a top linebacker and fullback in Alex Hindle.
Averett is the key. He ran for 910 yards and nine touchdowns as a sophomore and also threw four touchdown passes.
"We'll go as he goes," Valentine said.
Contact staff writer Phil Anastasia at 856-779-3223, panastasia@phillynews.com, or @PhilAnastasia on Twitter.
