We tell you everything you need to know about the 2022 American Heritage football team in this preview. We take a look at roster changes and what fans can expect from the team this season.
2021 Stats
- Overall Record: 6-4
- Points Scored: 304
- Points Allowed: 186
Key Losses
A majority of the Patriots’ key losses came from one of the state’s most talented defenses a year ago. The biggest names were five-star edge rusher Marvin Jones Jr., and the cornerback duo of Earl Little Jr., and Jacolby Spells. Three talented defensive lineman – Richard Thomas, Belizaire Bassette, and Jacorie Foster – also have moved on, as has linebacker Jaeden Kinlock, who led American Heritage in tackles a year ago.
On offense, the Patriots’ biggest losses come in the receiving game, with Emory Clemons and Isaiah Nesmith having graduated, while rising senior Santana Fleming transferred to Western. One of the Patriots’ backup running backs from a year ago, Reggie Williams, has also moved on.
Who’s Back
The 2022 American Heritage offense has the potential to be one of the best in the state. The group is led by five-star wide receiver Brandon Inniss and returning quarterback Blake Murphy, who missed a majority of last season due to an injury. The ground game also will be a massive strength thanks to the running back trio of Mark Fletcher, Byron Louis, and Reggie Foster. They’ll be following an offensive line anchored by senior Joey Colosi.
The Patriots’ defense will again be a strength. It’s led by one of the state’s deepest secondaries, which features names such as Damari Brown, Daemon Fagan, and Shamar McNeil. Elsewhere on the American Heritage defense, Jamarcus Smith and Bowen Drewes could play significant roles.
What to Expect
After falling to eventual Class 5A state champion Miami Central in a regional semifinal a year ago, American Heritage enters its first season under new head coach Mike Smith, who takes over for Pat Surtain. Talent will be plentiful for the Patriots in year one under Smith, especially on the offensive side of the ball, with quarterback Blake Murphy returning to full health in 2022.
American Heritage is the preseason favorite not only in its own loaded district, but in all of 2M-Region 3 as well. Expect the Patriots to be one of the state’s most exciting overall teams in 2022, and for American Heritage to be a legit state title contender, if not the outright favorite.
Prediction
American Heritage will win at least seven games and be a state title contender.
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