We tell you everything you need to know about the 2022 Baker 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: 8-3
- Points Scored: 305
- Points Allowed: 247
Key Losses
The Gators’ biggest losses come on defense, where Jared Raybon ranked among Baker’s leaders in tackles and sacks a year ago. Two more prominent tacklers, Hunter Myrick and Bryce Stout, also are gone, along with Brandon Moss, Randall Godwin, and Ryan Fleming. On offense, Baker must replace starting quarterback Tanner Kimbrel, who made an impact in both the passing and running game. Moss and Fleming also were key factors in the running game.
Who’s Back
By far, Baker’s biggest returning name is running back Kayleb Wagner, a rising junior who ranked among the state’s leading rushers last season. Returnees joining Wagner on the 2022 Gator offense include names such as Garrett McClendon, Tucker Martin, and Trevor Hansen.
Defensively, both Martin and McClendon will play significant roles this season, particularly in the pass rush alongside Ethan Williams. Colton Weekley is also a player to watch for on the Baker defense, as are Justin Barberee, Jace Tolbert, and Dalton Cotten.
What to Expect
Baker, which reached a regional final a year ago, will again be a talented group in year one under new head coach Barry Gardner. Headlining that talent is a legit candidate, Wagner, to lead the state in rushing, followed by a defense that returns a significant amount of production from a year ago. The Gators should be considered one of the top teams in Class 1R-Region 1 entering the season, and they’re well-positioned to make a deep playoff run once again in 2022.
Prediction
Baker will win eight games and reach at least a regional semifinal.
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