06 Aug 2016 FOUNTAIN LAKE: Cobras riding strong lines to victory

Conference: 7-4A
Coach: Thomas Gilleran
’15 Record: 8-4

The Fountain Lake Cobras were one of the great 4A teams in 2015. The Cobras finished second in the 7-4A, right behind eventual 4A champion Nashville. Getting back to those heights in 2016 will be a challenge as the Cobras start young all across the field.

Senior Hunter Bryant — a 501 Football Team honoree — starts at quarterback. Bryant served in a backup role last fall and “came in when we needed a lift or a big play,” said Coach Tommy Gilleran. Parion Johnson has earned the starting running back role. The junior rushed for more than 200 yards and three touchdowns as a backup in 2015. Senior running back Gaige Burgett joins Johnson in the backfield. Juniors James Mullen and Ben Chaney provide experience and leadership on the offensive line.

Senior Will Roberts leads on the defensive line. Chaney and junior Justin Lee also project as starters on the defensive line. Juniors Tanner Tedford and Dillon Horton gained experience last fall at linebacker. Burgett, senior Hunter Davis and Johnson defend the secondary.

“We have to replace the whole offense and defense,” Gilleran said. “We are very young and will be fighting for [a playoff spot]. Our strengths are our huge offensive and defensive lines.”