BY THE NUMBERS:
whole team, but we feel good about what those guys have been doing throughout the offseason,” Tankersley added. “We think some of those guys are really going to step up and do a great job for us. Sometimes when you have good running backs, you just have to get in people’s way and create a little bit of space for them. I think (the offensive linemen) are going to do a great job and I think people will be surprised.”
But it’s the defense that has had fans buzzing in the offseason. Some close to the program believe the 2017 Panthers may just be the fastest defense in school history.
“We’re really excited about the defense,” Tankersley stated. “We think we have a lot of speed all over the field that we can use to our advtanage.”
Up front, the Panthers have plenty of experience in Tucker and Derayl Helton, while Foshay - an AllRegion first teamer at linebacker last year - will move to defensive end. All three played or started in every game last season.
Behind them, Bowman will anchor an inside linebacker spot. He’ll get help from Chris Bivins, Brandon Sewell and Calvin Dallas, while Hughley, Blackwell and Terrance Roberts, another new Panther, will patrol on the outside.
Montgomery will be stationed at free safety to lead what should be one of the best secondaries in the area. Walker was first team All-Region at corner a year ago, while A’zavier Blackwell was second team. The hard-hitting Shawn Wilson will round things out.
Conner Middleton has added quite a bit of distance and accuracy on his kicks after plenty of camp work in the offseason. He may also take over punting chores from Hill, while Tucker and Dawson Thompson can both handle long snapping duties.
Tankersley said his team speed and depth at the skill positions are two of the Panthers’ strengths.
“It just depends how our offensive line develops and how quickly they can adjust to being in varsity action,” he said. “I think that will probably be the key, that and making sure we’re mentally prepared each week. We can’t take anything for granted. We can’t ust think because we had a good season last year that we’re guaranteed anything this season.”