The Skinny
The Greater Atlanta Christian Spartans advanced to the semi-finals last season before falling to Peach County. However, there seems to be plenty to be excited about as the Spartans return brothers Chris and Myles Hinton both first team All-State offensive linemen. But Coach Hardy is certainly not penciling his team into the state tournament.
“Every year is a challenge to put together the puzzles pieces of a great team,” Hardy said.
Outside of the Hinton brothers, the Spartans welcome back First-Team All Region tight-end Jeffrey Blake. Wide receiver Jake Floyd will look to lead the receiving corp. Floyd was third on the team in receiving yards last season. Ty James is projected to join Floyd at receiver.
Quarterback Josh Rose will be back for his senior season. Rose threw 17 TDs and only two interceptions. Rose will not have the luxury of RB Kyler McMichael. Junior running back Montae Bailey looks to be the heir apparent at running back.
Bailey rushed for 602 yards and 7 TDs last season. Fellow junior Tyler Bride will also be called upon to fill the void at running back.
The Spartans will trot out a very imposing defensive front. They are anchored by defensive linemen Chris Hinton, (First Team All-State) and Elijah Pryor, (First Team All-Region). Linebackers Jeffrey Blake, (First Team All-Region) and Choe Bryant-Strother are also names to be familiar with on defense.
The Spartans will certainly log some travel miles this season.
“We are traveling to Dallas, Texas for a game vs Prestonwood Christian,” Hardy said.
This game is the first of two challenging road games for the Spartans, as they return to Georgia the following and travel to Thomson. These early season tests should prove valuable down the stretch and in postseason play.
