Head coach Chris Griffin is back for his second season with the Falcons and is ready for the competitive schedule that lies ahead. Griffin plans on continuing to work based on setting high standards for his players. With the hard work of his guys, he hopes to make it deep into the playoffs.
The Falcons were 8-2 in the regular season, only losing two non-region games, to Northside-Warner Robins and West Forsyth. They will look to avoid the early sweep this year when they face the same two powers to kickoff the season. The Falcons built from their early losses and went undefeated in the 8-AAAAA region, which landed them the top seat in the region. The tough loss against North Paulding 63-43 in the first round of the playoffs ended the Falcons’ season abruptly. Flowery Branch was even able to top eventual state champion Gainesville 35-34 in the final week of the season for the region crown.
“We have talented kids that are trying to make it to the next level,” said Griffin. “We don’t want to lose in the first round of playoffs anymore. That wasn’t what we wanted.”
This season, the preseason No. 5 Falcons will have 12 returning starters. Senior quarterback Jackson McDonald will continue to run the spread offense. Offensive lineman Andrew Miles, who is getting college interest from the Air Force Academy and UAB, will be a huge asset to the OL this season. Last season, the offense scored an average of 33 points. The strength and experience of the offense that will be returning this season forecasts optimism for what lies ahead.
On defense, Thor Smith will be a leader as he enters his senior year for the Falcons. Cornerback Jeremy James is a dynamic player on the defense that can ball-hawk and come in and make a tackle when needed. James is another Falcon that will be playing college ball and is receiving interest from James Madison, Duke and Indiana, but has yet to commit to a school. The defense will switch up their scheme this season from what was a 4-2-3 to a 4-3 look.
Flowery Branch will begin its season at Northside-Warner Robins on Aug. 30. Region play will not begin until Sept. 13 against Cedar Shoals.
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