NATCHEZ — Trinity head coach Zach Rogel is looking for a fast start Friday against University Academy of Cenla.

According to the Clarion-Ledger’s poll, University Academy is ranked No. 2 in the MAIS Class A preseason poll. With that in mind, Rogel is expecting a battle against one of the best in Trinity’s classification.

“I think they’ve earned that (ranking),” said Rogel, whose Saints were ranked No. 3 in the same poll. “They have their quarterback back, and they will have 11 well-coached athletes out there.”

Starting quarterback Peyton Gautier and six returning offensive starters helped generate hype for University Academy entering 2014. Rogel expects Gautier to challenge his young cornerbacks, eighth grader Jakaris Caston and ninth grader Demond Fleming.

“(Caston and Fleming) are playing there because that’s our two best options right now,” Rogel said. “I expect them to step up and play.”

Cori Hampton, who registered 106 tackles, five sacks and three interceptions in 2013, will lead University Academy’s defense onto the field against the Saints.

Rogel said Kevontaye Caston would get the nod at quarterback Friday night after battling Cade Wells in an intense quarterback battle this summer. After giving some consideration to playing both Kevontaye and Cade Wells at the position, Rogel decided to keep Wells at slot-back and in the slot to make plays offensively. Rogel said he wouldn’t be making any adjustments at quarterback should things go sour early.

“Kevontaye’s earned it, and he’s proved that he can handle it,” Rogel said. “He has to take control of the huddle, and we look for him to do more of that this week. We’re going to ride Kevontaye.”

Trinity will play at University Academy at 7 p.m. Friday night.