FPD seeking another step forward against GMC

FPD entered the season with a combined eight starters returning on both sides of the ball, so the 2015 campaign remains very much a work in progress.

And while the fruits of that labor aren’t visible underneath the spotlight every day to the casual observer, they are in plain view for FPD. The Vikings’ next chance to step forward is Friday when FPD (1-1) hosts GMC in the Vikings home opener.

“We’re still a very young football team; we’re growing just as much Monday through Thursday as we are on Friday. Friday just happens to be out in public view. But because of that, Monday through Thursday are very important for us,” FPD head coach Greg Moore said. “I keep stressing to our guys the importance of trying to get better and better every single day we are at practice, and Friday will take care of itself.”

In other games within the region, Stratford (1-1) hosts defending region champion Aquinas, while Tattnall Square (3-0) hosts Hancock Central and Mount de Sales (1-1) travels to Strong Rock.

FPD got into the win column a week ago as the Vikings’ defense posted a shutout in a 21-0 win over Monticello. And while the win infused the feeling of victory within the Vikings, it’s an emotion that FPD knows that must be cultivated by improvement from week to week.

“We’re very grateful for last Friday night and seeing some hard work paying off with a win,” Moore said. “But momentum is something that you have to build week to week, and it usually comes as a result of executing game plans, and nothing builds momentum quicker than that.”

The Vikings will look for the solid play of quarterback Will McCormick to continue. In two games, the senior is 14-of-22 for 127 yards with a touchdown and interception. Another senior has also been key offensively to date for the Vikings. Reggie Gantt has carried the ball 15 times for 92 yards, having one of FPD’s three rushing scores. Daniel Weaver, another senior, has made the most out of his seven catches with two going for touchdowns.

GMC already has a strong familiarity with Macon’s GHSA Region 7-A schools. The Bulldogs (1-2) have been handed defeats by Tattnall Square and Mount de Sales, being held to a touchdown in both losses.

FPD will look to repeat the success of its rivals, namely defensively after surrendering 154 yards of offense last week. Weaver is among those leading the way with three sacks with senior Jack Sawyer and sophomore Ashby Reed already having surpassed 20 tackles through the Vikings’ first two games.

“We were very proud of the way we played on defense; it was super,” Moore said. “I don’t think, however, that GMC cares about that, and this Friday presents another chance for us to put another plan together and execute it.”

This story was originally published September 17, 2015 at 7:35 PM with the headline "FPD seeking another step forward against GMC ."