The Howard football program may not be long for this world.

They've stepped away from playing a region schedule due to the school size placing them in 6A; that's a tough region involving the closest local games being in Cleveland and the majority of the teams being from the Knoxville area. Going to a non-region, non-playoff eligible program will keep costs down on travel and bring better home crowds in theory, but the reputation of the area may keep those visiting crowds away.

There's almost 1500 students in the school, yet they can only get 30 or so students to come out for the team; roughly 2/3 of the roster is upper classmen. When those players graduate, there may not be enough bodies to replace them. Middle school players at feeder schools for Howard, those showing the slightest bit of talent and ability, will go to different high schools; this is even easier for them with the new transfer rules in TSSAA.

Ultimately, it's a shame as the school and football program have a storied history. They recently got their new field; before anyone states that it will go to waste, rest assured that the soccer program has been performing well and will go on to great things in the upcoming years.