As the weather changes, the East St. Louis Flyers sit in a familiar position heading into tonight’s showdown with Southwestern Conference rival Edwardsville.
The Flyers (7-0) are undefeated in Southwestern Conference play and they can lock up another league championship with a victory over the Tigers.
A large crowd is expected on Senior Night for the “BLACK OUT” game, which will kick off at 7 p.m. However, Flyers head coach Darren Sunkett wants fans to come out early at 6 p.m.
“We have some seniors who have put in an awful lot of time and dedication to our program that last few years,” Sunkett said. “They deserve another shot at a Southwestern Conference championship and possibly a state title. We want all of Flyer Nation to come our and celebrate our seniors on Friday night as well as the entire team.”
The Flyers offense is averaging 45 points a game this season. Leading the way is senior quarterback Kindle Lyons Jr. He has thrown for 1,256 yards and 11 touchdowns through seven games.
The rushing attack is led by Larevious “Fresh” Woods. The Lindenwood recruit has rushed for 439 yards and 12 touchdowns. Taryan Martin and Amir Tillman round out one of the best trio of running backs in the state.
East Side’s wide receiver corps is both young and talented to the point where they could be considered the best group in the state. Leading the way is Ronnie Gomiller, Laron Baker Jr., Armaad Sharp, Royce Searcy, Kortez Rupert and Jamari Ware. They have combined for 19 receiving touchdowns. The best thing about them is that they will all be back next season.
During their 7-0 run, The Flyers defense has been outstanding as they have given up a measly seven points a game while playing against a national schedule. Sophomore Raheem Floyd is one of the area’s leaders in interceptions this season. Joining him in the secondary is four-star Mizzou recruit Charles Bass, Quintin Kirby and Quincy Minor.
Kaylan Lagrant, Keandre McClendon, Elmo Gilliam Jr., Mike Taylor and Leon Howard Jr. form one of the best linebacking corps in the state. The defensive line is anchored by Blake Rose-Brown, Montrell Tillman, Gregory Brown and Caleb Brown.
The No. 1 team in the state of Illinois, regardless of class, is once again closing in on another conference championship on Friday night. The Edwardsville game is a prelude to next Friday when they Flyers host nationally ranked IMG Academy in what will be one of the biggest games in the country.
The post Flyers host Edwardsville in Southwestern Conference Showdown appeared first on St. Louis American.
