The Skinny
Coach Justin DeShon and the Chapel Hill Panthers have steadily improved in each of his previous 5 seasons at the helm. The Panthers play in an extremely competitive region, so that certainly does not help matters. We asked Coach DeShon what his biggest challenge was coming into the season.
He replied, “Depth.”
While the Panthers look to create depth early, there are some pieces to build around. Zaire Flournoy will return to anchor the offensive line. Flournoy has received interest from Appalachian State and Georgia State among others.
Imani Davis is the team’s top returning running back. Davis averaged 5.7 yards per carry in 2018. Elijah Brown should be one of the leaders at receiver as well.
Meanwhile on defense, Bradyn Swinson is the team’s top returning tackler. Swinson tallied 78 total tackles and a team leading 8-sacks. Swinson has received offers from UNC, Arizona State, Florida State and Oregon.
Other returners on defense of note are Shaheed and Rasheed Nurridin. The linebacking duo accounted for 6-sacks in 2018. They may also see some time at defensive line.
We asked coach DeShon if there are any games that the Panthers have circled this season.
“Every Region Game,” he said, “our schedule is extremely demanding.”
No one can deny that. With opponents such as Class 5-A Starr’s Mill, Class 7-A Newnan, and then Region foes such as Troup, Cartersville, Cedartown and Sandy Creek. There are really no holes in their schedule.
How will the Panthers define success this season?
Coach DeShon responded by saying, “Be the most physical team.”
