Steers have tough task against experienced Sanger offense

The Graham Steers open the season Friday against an emerging Sanger team. Last season, the Indians finished 10-2 with a playoff victory over Sprintown before being knocked out by Liberty-Eylau. With a junior quarterback, their top four rushers and their entire receiving crew returning, the Sanger offense will be difficult for Graham’s young defense to stop. The Indians offensive success begins with quarterback C.J. Jackson, who as a sophomore in 2015, averaged 7.3 yards per passing attempt. Though Jackson was only called to throw the ball about 14 times a game, his 97.8 passer rating and 14 touchdowns, to just three interceptions, points to a player who is accurate and deliberate with the ball. Jackson also rushed for 582 yards and seven touchdowns in 2015, proving that he is capable and willing to take off when plays break down. “In the scrimmages they don’t really run him a lot,” Graham head coach Kenny Davidson said. “You always have a quick whistle with the quarterback in those situations. He’s a guy you have to stop. He’s their main player. Very athletic with a quick release. He likes to run the keep and the option so we have to be disciplined and contain him.” Seniors Braven Smith and Trent McMillan round out the top of Sanger’s receiving corps. For the rest of this story, pick up a copy of Wednesday’s Graham Leader, or subscribe to our online edition.