The phrase “third time’s the charm” held true for the Savannah Christian football program last season. After losing the GHSA Class A state championship game two straight times, the Raiders finally won it in their third straight appearance. Expectations are high following a 15-0 season, and one of the biggest challenges for head coach Donald Chumley is getting everyone focused for the upcoming season.
“To win a state championship, as great as it is, it’s hard to get back and get focused and that’s taken a little longer this year,” said Chumley.
Savannah Christian wrapped up spring practice last week, and Chumley says one of the biggest challenges for them is seeing how the younger, inexperienced players will do after losing the majority of their players on the state championship squad.
“We’re going to be a young football team this season,” said Chumley. “I’ve got players that are going to have to step up and learn the system, so there’s going to be a whole lot to work on this summer.”
Offense
Returning starters: Jalen Myrick, HB (SR); Mark White, WR (SR); Michael Burke, OL (SR)
Player to Watch: Myrick
Myrick is a quick, agile wingback who played a big role last season in the Raiders’ versatile triple-option offense. Chumley hopes Myrick will continue to lead the offense and looks for him to “carry the load early in the backfield.” Myrick was named First Team All-Region following last season and is considered an FBS prospect with an offer from Colorado State and many other FBS programs interested.
Other Key Players: C.J. Harper, OL (JR); Donnie Foster, OL (JR); Ivan Reese, FB (SR); Brandon Thomas, QB (JR)
Defense
Returning starters: Michael Burke, DL (SR); Scott Brannen, LB (SR); Omani Marshall, DL/LB (SR); Jalen Myrick, CB (SR); Wade Benton, CB (SO); Ahmad Johnson, DL/LB (JR)
Player to Watch: Burke
6-foot-2, 285-pound standout and University of South Carolina-signee DeAngelo Brown is leaving a big hole in the Raiders’ defensive line following his senior season. Chumley is confident that Burke will be able to fill the void left by Brown and be a strong team leader.
“We’ll be looking for Michael [Burke] to not only tote the load on both sides of the line, but also help younger guys develop,” said Chumley.
Other Key Players: Jordan Smith, DB (SR); Jack Bush, DB (SO); Austin Amick, DB (SR)
Loading ...
