We tell you everything you need to know about the 2022 Archer 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: 7-5
- Points Scored: 355
- Points Against: 152
Key Losses
The Archer football program loses QB Caleb Peevy via transfer, along with one of his top targets in wide receiver DJ Moore, who signed with Georgia Tech in the offseason. Those aren’t the only starters not returning this season for Archer, however. Also gone is RB/CB Chase Sellars, who ran for 870 yards last season, giving him over 1,000 rushing yards and 14 TDs for his career at Archer.
Fellow offensive teammate WR/KR Derrick “DJ” Moore also graduated. He ended his career with over 1,100 all purpose yards and eight TDs. Other Tigers who have moved on include WR Bryant Do, who signed with Reinhardt University, and FS Nick Hardy, who will take his talents to UVA-Wise. Defensive starters from 2021 who are moving on include MLB Sean Spearman, SS Wilgens Larame, and LB/ATH Abraham Mukwiza.
Who’s Back
Despite the key losses, Archer does have some playmakers returning to welcome in new head football coach Dante Williams, who comes over from state champion Collins Hill, where he was the Eagles’ offensive coordinator.
Taking over at quarterback is newcomer Justin Johnson, who comes to the Tigers from Central Gwinnett. The dual-threat playmaker has put up some impressive numbers so far in his high school career, throwing for 3,267 yards and 21 TDs while rushing for another 1,000 yards and three TDs. The senior signal caller has received offers from Georgia Tech, Coastal Carolina, N.C. State, TCU, and Washington State.
Joining him in the offensive backfield is speedy RB Chad Alexander, who is also receiving quite a bit of attention. He runs a 4.43 40-yard dash. Other key returners in 2022 include OL Barry Richardson, 6-foot, 240-pound DL Sam Rwibuka, and DB Nissi Mukula.
What To Expect
Gone is longtime coach Andy Dyer, who Williams credits with leaving him a program in solid shape.
“Coach Dyer did such a great job of building this program, so I’m spoiled in that regard,” said the new head coach.
Williams himself receives a lot of credit for overseeing one of the most prolific offenses at Collins Hill and developing Sam Horn and Travis Hunter. He won’t have those two, but he’ll still enjoy some great talent, especially in Johnson and Alexander. The Tigers move from 7-AAAAAAA to join 4-AAAAAAA and new region foes including Brookwood, Parkview, and Grayson.
Prediction
Seven or eight wins is possible this year. But it’s a tough region.
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