2021 Preview: A.C. Flora Falcons
A.C. Flora did something never done in program history last year- the Falcons earned the school’s first-ever football state championship. A lot of the pieces are gone from that squad but the Class AAAA school in Forest Acres still has…
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Continue ReadingA.C. Flora did something never done in program history last year- the Falcons earned the school’s first-ever football state championship.
A lot of the pieces are gone from that squad but the Class AAAA school in Forest Acres still has plenty of talent.
“People look at us on paper and see that we lost a lot, but I feel good about the guys we have coming back,” coach Dustin Curtis said. “We have some depth and leadership that are in place that should help us too. I’m excited to see what this group can do.”
Junior running back Markel Townsend was part of a 3-man rotation as a sophomore but should get the bulk of the carries this year. His stock should rise quickly up recruiting boards once he becomes the featured back.
The offensive line will again be big and physical. Thomas Papadakis will be a three-year starter at left tackle. Alexander Koutrakos will be the center and Kendarious Kinard is penciled in at right tackle. Curtis said the guard positions are still undecided.
The Falcons must find a new starting quarterback and right now it appears to be a two-person race between a pair of seniors. Phillips Daniels and Trey McCardle are competing to see who emerges as the No. 1 guy.
McCardle received valuable experience as the back-up last season. Daniels did not play football last year but brings a solid leadership quality to the table. He is committed to The Citadel in baseball.
The pass catchers will be talented and have the ability for the big play. Three juniors – Chris Lofton, Adonis McDaniel and Carew Bates – all have big-time play making ability that should ease the transition for the new quarterback.
Jack Moseley and Davis Rivers will fit in nicely at tight end.
“We have experience and guys that we feel can make plays,” Curtis said. “Of course, we have to get the right fit at quarterback. I don’t expect to see much of a drop off from what we were able to do last year.”
A.C. Flora took a hit on the defensive line but with the back seven could match or exceed the production from last year.
Tyrell Green is a three-year starter at linebacker and should be a vocal leader of this unit. Brooks Hartin is an outside linebacker with a trio of guys playing in the middle – John Friday, Mason Little and Josh Mason.
Tyler Robinson is another three-year starter that should handle one of the cornerback positions. Jacob Croffie has made huge strides at the other corner spot. Boyce Bankhead returns at strong safety.
Braxton Burton has emerged as a leader along the defensive front.