We tell you everything you need to know about the 2022 Columbus 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: 4-6
- Points Scored: 289
- Points Against: 332
Key Losses
Head Coach Phil Marino says his Columbus Blue Devils will lose “seven outstanding players from last year’s team.” That group begins with running back Robert Edwards, who rushed for 1,388 yards last season, averaging 8.3 yards per carry, and 18 TDs. Edwards finished his career with 2,932 yards and 30 TDs. He signed with Georgia Southern, where he should be a good fit in their vaunted running attack.
Also headed to the college ranks are RB/DB Davion Peterson and OT Dermond Richard, both to play at Reinhardt College. Big OT Damian Brown is now at Baldwin Wallace University in Ohio. DB Chris Reed has graduated and will attend Birmingham Southern, where he’ll continue his education and play football. A huge loss in special teams comes with the graduation of Bridger Jones, who is off to Wofford University. Jones was a GHSA First Team AAAA All-State selection.
Who’s Back
The Blue Devils drop to AAA in 2022, and will welcome back a few key members who have been a big part of the offense and defense over the past couple of seasons. Marino says eight starters are returning on defense and five on offense.
Quarterback Bryant Mansfield is back to guide the offensive attack, and he’ll pull double duty as an outside linebacker. On offense, Mansfield has thrown for 526 yards with four TDs, and run for another score. On defense, he has a knack for finding the football and has recorded 82 tackles, including eight TFL and one sack. He also came up with an interception, which he returned for a TD. Mansfield forced four fumbles and recovered two of them.
Another returner to the Devils in 2022 is WR/FS Fidel Small, who has collected 35 tackles while coming up with an interception. He also is an option at wide receiver for Mansfield, bringing in 302 receiving yards with a TD. He will also return kicks for the Blue Devils this season. RB Jek Spencer returns, and will see time on special teams in addition to time as a receiver and running back.
What To Expect
2022 could be a tough transition from AAAA to AAA for the Blue Devils. Although they are dropping down one classification, they are moving into 1-AAA, where they’ll compete with Carver-Columbus, Dougherty, Thomasville, Crisp, and Monroe.
“Everyone calls this region the SEC West,” Marino said. The head coach said his team will have to play above its talent level, minimize turnovers, and stay penalty-free to have a shot at making the postseason. Losing Edwards is huge, but returning starting QB Mansfield will help mitigate his absence.
Prediction
Look for Marino to lead his Columbus team to a six-win season.
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