Airport the favorite for Class 4A teams in Midlands

With the offseason underway and recruiting in the books for this cycle, it is time to look at the climate in the Midlands for what 2016 could shape into. Today, we’ll take a look at the 4A classification.

The new classification system will see five Midlands teams move into 4A. Here’s a very early prognostication of how we think these schools should fair this season. Keep in mind, this is a “pre-evaluation period” look and could change after spring practice.

1. Airport: The Eagles stand to be the top team from the Midlands in Class 4A, but they will be in a region with the teams from the CSRA. Returning quarterback Brett Burnett and two-way starter Kerryon Richardson give the Eagles some fire power in the skills department. They also have some young players who’ve been impressive in the offseason, and this could be a very strong year for them if they can stay healthy. Team speed will be their strength. They will battle with South Aiken and North Augusta for the region’s top spot.

Biggest question mark: In the trenches and at running back.

2. Chapin: The loss of quarterback Logan Bailey will no doubt impact this team. But a solid replacement at quarterback with a different skills set, along with returning talent in other spots will make the Eagles competitive. Will Register will be a force on either side of the ball.

Biggest question mark: Quarterback inexperience and filling holes at linebacker.

3. A.C. Flora: Losing a key starter at quarterback is going to impact this team significantly, much like Chapin. But solid talent that Coach Reggie Shaw has developed in his first two seasons will make this team ready. Look for them to battle with Chapin for the crown in this Midlands region.

Biggest question mark: Filling the quarterback spot.

4. Dreher: The Blue Devils are in the same boat that Chapin and Flora are in – losing an impact player at quarterback. They have a capable replacement, but he is inexperienced. The Blue Devils have solid skills players on both sides of the ball, and should be in the mix.

Biggest question mark: Filling the quarterback spot and holes on the offensive line.

5. Lower Richland: While the Hornets return a very good quarterback, they lost a playmaker at wide receiver. They have good skills players returning at virtually every position, but they’re currently without a coach. If they can get a good young coach who can bring excitement to the program, this team could compete in this region.

Biggest question mark: Finding the right coach.

Note: Orangeburg-Wilkinson is also in this region and should be competing at the top with returning talent, including one of region’s top players in wide receiver Zach Felder.

This story was originally published February 21, 2016 at 10:07 PM with the headline "Airport the favorite for Class 4A teams in Midlands."