CHRISTIAN HERITAGE CRUSADERS

Coach: JOEL FRANKS

9-3

OFFENSE

Last year coach Joel Franks said that he felt the Crusaders of Christian Heritage Academy were ready to take the next step after a mediocre 2021 season. And the team lived up to expectations as they made the quarterfinals in the Class A playoffs. But with graduation losses, the Crusaders will need some things to go right to keep their momentum going. On the plus side is the return of two-way starter Bryce Graham (6-0, 220, Sr.), a VYPE Top 100 nominee.  “Bryce is an excellent athlete who was all-conference last season,” said Franks. “He became a key player offensively last year when we changed up our offense at mid-season to take advantage of his athleticism. He’s a team captain, a known leader and a standout in the classroom as well.” Also returning in the receiving corps for the Crusaders is Tate Campbell (6-1, 170, Jr.) and Gabe Holshouser (5-10, 180, Jr.). Big John Warren (6-5, 300, Sr.) will anchor the offensive line while Caleb Gideon (6-0, 220, Jr.) will once again carry the mail in Franks’ spread offense. Settling on a new quarterback will be a crucial priority for Franks.

DEFENSE

Graham returns at linebacker for the Crusaders with some eye-popping stats from last year. He had 150 total tackles with 34 tackles for loss, 14 and-a-half sacks and six interceptions. Gideon will pair with Graham at linebacker once again while Campbell will be in the secondary and Noah Moix (6-3, 195, Jr.) will be in the defensive front. Franks is also expecting contributions from sophomore Asher Edelen, a three-sport athlete who was a force in all three sports as a freshman. Another player Franks pointed to is Stonewall Brown. “He is one of the hardest working guys I have had in a long time. His willingness to take on roles that he may not be comfortable with has helped him find a way onto the field.”

SCHEDULE

8-25 – at OCS

9-1 – vs. Casady

9-8 – vs. OKC Patriots

9-15 – at Mount St. Mary

9-22 – vs. Hinton

9-29 – at Crescent

10-6 – vs. Minco

10-12 – at Cashion

10-20 – vs. Watonga

11-3 – vs. Western Heights