Garland, which lays claim to being the oldest campus in Garland ISD and one of the most profound football programs in the state will look to resurge in 2017 after going through some initial struggles with their new head coach in 2016. Danny Russell will be entering his second year as the head coach with the program after coming over from Wichita Falls, however Russell will be looking to replicate the success he had in his first stint with Garland when he was on staff for Garland’s state title team in 1999.
That last year’s 3-7 record does not resonate with this team are indicative of how this team plays as Garland is used to playing football at a higher level especially now that they have a year under their belt as they re-familiarize themselves with Russell. What was considered as inexperience last year will now benefit them this year as Garland will have a few players leading the charge for Garland’s hopeful return to some post-season action.
While Garland will lose some outstanding talent, they’re will be some faces that should provide for an upward trend for the program.
Key Losses
QB Joshua Brown, RB John Anthony Person, WR Josh Thompson, LB Jose Jaramillo
Garland loses their leading passer, rusher and receiver and will definitely miss the arm and legs of Joshua Brown as he made play after play throughout the season. Jose Jaramillo is a big loss on the defensive side of the ball for Garland.
Key Returners
ATH Jaron Holcomb, ATH Trenton Smith, ATH Tyson Dixon, TE Sydney Onyekwe, LB Sheldrick Davis, DT Brannon Clark
What makes Garland special this year is the amount of talent they have that is capable of being a viable option on both sides of the ball. Leading the way is Jaron Holcomb who can be an excellent starter at both the wide receiver and safety position. Look for Holcomb to be piling up play after play as well as his teammates Trenton Smith and Tyson Dixon.
Smith will probably see himself in competition for the quarterback position and he can also line up as a defensive back. Dixon can be utilized as a corner and receiver and he is sure to be quite the weapon for Garland as well. Onyekwe is sure to get some key blocks and receptions lining up at tight end.
Defensively, Sheldrik Davis and Brannon Clark will help anchor the defense as they will be bringing with them some experience heading into this season.
The Verdict
Garland should be better this season in terms of win-losses and have a high ceiling with Russell still implementing his style of play into the program. The amount of athletes and fresh faces coming in to 2017 should have Garland in high hopes and help Garland return to some postseason play sooner rather than later.
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