Pre-Season Playoff Predictions: Simmons Football
The Simmons High School Blue Devils were a hot team in 2021. Their high-scoring offense brought them all the way to the state championship game which unfortunately they lost. Not content with second place Simmons is gearing to make another…
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Continue ReadingThe Simmons High School Blue Devils were a hot team in 2021. Their high-scoring offense brought them all the way to the state championship game which unfortunately they lost. Not content with second place Simmons is gearing to make another run at the title and this time aiming to win it all. Will they be successful in 2022? Let’s consider the program, some key returning athletes, and other factors that may impact how their season develops.
Simmons Blue Devils 13-1 Overall, 7-0 District
Head Coach: Tavares Johnson
The Blue Devils are a team that is truly focused on outplaying, outscoring, and simply dominating their opponent. Simmons possesses an electric offense that is mainly fueled by an outstanding running game. The Blue Devils do have the ability to pass the ball as well however they prefer to gash their competition via running backs. Their defense however is also notable. They kept most of their opponents to one or no touchdowns and won every game except for the championship game. This unit is certainly one that has the credibility to its name but will their credibility and returning players be able to repeat this performance? That question still remains.
Notable Returning Athletes:
In 2022 the Bulldogs will have lost their top running backs due to graduation. They will have retained some playmakers however they will need their athletes to step up and fill the roles left by prior generations.
Dee Rush, 6-1 202, QB Class of 2023
Dee Rush by far will be their most impactful returner by far. Although the Blue Devils seldom select passing play calls, Dee still managed to throw for a near 1,000 yards with an incredible accuracy of 70% and 16 touchdowns. Furthermore, in the ground game, Dee ran the ball for 760+ yards in 2021 for an additional 17 TDs. Dee’s leadership, athleticism, and overall production grant him, Simmons Football Most Valuable Playe in 2022. If coaches can surround Dee with other talented pieces, Dee and the Blue Devils will continue to thrive.
Charles Mallard, 6-0 140, WR Class of 2024
Charles will be one of those players who showed great ability in 2021 but will have to step up in 2022. He is a versatile playmaker both as a receiver and a ball carrier which adds to his value to the team. His speed, shiftiness, and yards after the catch ability if improved will certainly help the Blue Devils in their contests. What stands out to me about Charles is what he does without the ball. One can see his effort on every play including blocking and on the defensive side of things. This young stud is clearly one of Simmons’ playmakers and will see his role expand this next season. Will it be enough to get them to the playoffs?
Eddie George, 5-7 175, ATH Class of 2025
Eddie Geroge was an efficient running back for the blue devils but what stands out is his playmaking ability on the defensive side of the ball. As an underclassman, Eddie recorded the second most tackles for Simmons High School. His fly to the football ability and willingness to make plays is evident with every snap. George does an excellent job reading the offensive plays, defeating blocks, and getting to the ball carrier. It will be great to see Eddie continue to improve as he progresses through High School and develop into one of the state’s most productive defensive players. For Simmons to make a run at the title Eddie will have to step up and continue his production from 2021.
Other Notable Returning Athletes:
Amare Pam, 6-1 204, MLB Class of 2023
Chartavian Bethany
Chartavian
Bethany
6'2" | 165 lbs | WR
Simmons | 2024
State
MS
, 6-0 150 WR Class of 2024
Antonie Washington, 6-2 215, DE Class of 2023
These athletes will truly need to step up their production and leadership in order for the Simmons Blue Devils to be a playoff contender this year. They lost their top running back and other key pieces of their team due to graduation therefore replacing them will have to be a top priority for head coach Tavares Johnson. If the Blue Devils can develop their younger athletes into impact players Simmons will certainly be playing with an added motivation to win it all.
Champions in 2022?
Will the Simmons Blue Devils have what it takes to rebuild and win the trophy this year? Can they go undefeated and win it all? It will indeed be an uphill battle given their context. As the season gets underway the Blue Devils will certainly be a team to watch and keep an eye on. Let’s see if they will be crowned champions at the season’s end.