Black Athletes in the Spotlight: HBCU Sports & Local Highlights
- Coach Steven Smith expects a postseason berth in his third year after strong summer buy-in from the team.
- Quarterback returns as the experienced starter, emerging as a leader on and off the field.
- Region 3-AAA competition is tough with favorites like Calvary Day, Jenkins, Southeast Bulloch, and Long County.
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Johnson football head coach Steven Smith believes his third year leading the program will result in a postseason berth.
For the past two seasons, the Atom Smashers have finished 3-7 overall. In 2024, they had four games decided by one possession, but only came out victorious once.
Region 3-AAA is loaded with Calvary Day, Jenkins, Southeast Bulloch and Long County among the favorites.
Coach Smith’s confidence is high because of the buy-in he received during summer workouts. He said the team has had 40 players showing up consistently.
The most important returner we have coming back is our quarterback,” Smith said. “Our quarterback was coming back for the second year. It’s the first time since I’ve been here since 2018 that we’re going to have a returner and quarterback as our starter.
“Throughout the summer, it’s paying off tremendously. He’s bought into the program. He’s becoming a great leader. He’s reaching out to his teammates, making sure that they know what they’re supposed to do on offense and defense. He’s holding himself accountable in the weight room. He’s holding his team accountable in the weight room and out on the field.”
Johnson only has one non-region game this year. They travel to Bryan County on Aug. 15 at 7:30 p.m.
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