windy , and we still have plenty of more work to put in before we are at that level .”
With a state trophy in mind , Saunders , the former defensive coordinator who took over head coaching duties when Gary Rushing left for Community Christian in Mineral Wells , is also focused on helping his athletes develop as ultimate role models .
“ Our purpose is to be the best Christians , future husbands , and future fathers we can possibly be ,” Saunders said . “ Obviously , it would be amazing for the team to be able to accomplish both , but for me , I believe if we can focus on feeding and teaching their purpose , the goals will take care of themselves .”
The Crusaders are in a good position quarterback wise , as they have two skilled quarterbacks vying for the starting job — senior Noah Rollins and sophomore Levi Morrow .
“[ Noah ] has an uncanny ability to never get rattled , and is extremely coachable ,” Saunders said . “ He is the anchor in the huddle that keeps the rest of the team from getting too high or too low during the ebb and flow of the game .”
Morrow is new to ACS , with a “ fantastic arm and deep hunger ,” the head coach said . “ He ’ s worked very hard this summer learning the terminology and system and has proven himself to not only me , but his teammates . We are fortunate to have both of them and we will utilize both of them .”
Another projected standout is senior Camden Logan , who , at 6-foot-3 , 210 lbs ., is multi-positional .
“ He has all the athletics qualities any college in America would be blessed to
have on their team ,” Saunders said . “ He was our leading rusher last season , and will once again be a very intricate part of our team this season .”
Senior Drew Startvedt is expected to be a lightning rod for the defense , bringing with him discipline and focus . He also has potential to be used as a weapon on the offense , and is a top-ranked deep snapper being heavily recruited .
Saunders also expects big things from junior A . J . Rollins , whom he calls one of the fastest on the field while playing with heart and soul .
Going into his first season as head coach , Saunders has already made some changes he felt necessary , including the addition of a weight room to further propel the expectation of commitment .
“ Early on , there was a little push back because having a squat bar on your back at 6:30 a . m . isn ’ t the most fun way to
“
Our purpose is to be the best Christians , future husbands , and future fathers we can possibly be ... I believe if we can focus on feeding and teaching their purpose , the goals will take care of themselves .
2022 FOOTBALL PREVIEW 13