12 Aug 2012 GREENBRIER: Panthers reload, face challenges for 2012
Classification: 5A West
Coach: Randy Tribble
Last Season: 9-3 (5-2)
The Greenbrier Panthers were plagued by the injury bug late last season, losing quarterback Neal Burcham to a torn ACL in the final conference game against Vilonia. Although the Panthers were able to dispatch Arkadelphia in the first round, they fell to Batesville in the quarterfinals.
“Last year was a very good season, but it had a disappointing end,” Coach Randy Tribble said. “Injuries kept us from advancing as far as we thought we would go in the playoffs. Injuries cause you to develop depth.”
One of the biggest challenges for the Panthers this season will be replacing Burcham, who committed to SMU last November. Senior Seth Peters (6-0, 190) switches from receiver to quarterback. Peters amassed 113 receptions for 1,362 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2011.
“Seth possesses a very strong arm and fast release,” Tribble said. “He is a great athlete.”
Austin Fischer returns to pace the running game this season. The senior rushed 87 times for 713 yards and 10 touchdowns a year ago, while grabbing 60 passes for 695 yards and 10 scores.
“Fischer fits the position of running back really well with the amount of empty formations we ran last year,” Tribble said. “His ability as a receiver makes him dangerous.”
Seniors Nolan Kinder (6-0, 270), Zach Gerbholtz (6-3, 250) and Sam Bradway (6-10, 210) return on the offensive line. 501 Football Team honoree Robert Meredith (6-1, 230) provides experience at center and tackle. All four of these guys will also see time on the defensive line.
Although the Panthers return six offensive starters, there are still some holes to fill on defense, with just four returning starters this year.
Seniors Jessie May (5-10, 180) and Justin Adlong (5-8, 180) return as starters at linebacker and “provide great leadership on defense.”
“Our biggest challenge is replacing Neal Burcham and developing our identity on offense,” Tribble said. “Overcoming the loss of very good senior linemen on defense and offense will also be a challenge.”
501 Football Team 2012 –
Robert Meredith
Classification: Senior
Position: OL/DL
On the field: Smart, coachable.
Off the field: Positive, friendly, an encourager.
Community work: Participates in community service projects. Has been on stateside mission trips the last two summers with his church, Wooster First Baptist.
Classroom: Helpful, positive and a good listener.
Expectations: To be a leader, have great work ethic and to be very coachable.
Last season: Played on the offensive line, was a very good practice player and positive encourager to his teammates.
