Winning football games has become somewhat of the norm for Peachtree Academy.

The Panthers won back-to-back state titles in 2018 and 2019. The team advanced to the second round in 2020 and as a new campaign appears on the horizon, Peachtree Academy is hoping for more championship glory in 2021. 

Jim Eidson is entering his second season as the program’s head coach. He was defensive coordinator during the championship seasons of 2018 and 2019.

While the Panthers play 8-man football, their coach said there is not much difference from the traditional 11-man competition.

“The only difference is you have three less players on the field for your team,” Eidson said. “It is still hitting, blocking and tackling. It’s football. There are many players in the pros now who played 8-man football in high school. You especially see it in the Midwest.”

Eidson is a product of 11-man play but has gained a strong respect for programs that compete with eight players at a time.

“The game itself is just as fast,” the coach said. “You have to be in serious shape to play.”

Eight-man teams will typically use two fewer offensive linemen and one less running back. On the defensive side of the football, instead of a 4-4 look or a 4-3, teams often use a 3-3. Outside linebackers cover the opponent’s flankers.

“It’s really a similar thing between the two,” Eidson said. “For us, we try to keep things simple. It took some getting used to for me at first from a strategy standpoint. Eventually, everything clicked.”

Teams in the GAPPS (Georgia Association of Private and Parochial Schools) are limited to 16 roster spots. Any higher of a number and the program has to play 11-man. The ultimate goal is for Peachtree Academy to play 11-man football — one day. 

“We are looking to have the school and the football program grow simultaneously,” Eidson said. “It would be great to play other area schools like Piedmont Academy.”

The Panthers have been working for several weeks in preparation for the 2021 season. Peachtree Academy officials proudly point to their on-campus stadium, something that was constructed after the initial championship season.

“We like where we are right now,” Eidson said. “Our school gives more players a chance to compete. That is what is important. It gives schools who don’t have the enormous enrollment numbers the opportunity to play. We pride ourselves on that. Our goal is to simply get better each day.”

The 2021 season begins Aug. 27 against Johnson Ferry Christian at home. Peachtree Academy will then host Victory Baptist on Sept. 3.

Region games will be Sept. 10 against Mercy Catholic (home), Oct. 1 against New Creation (home), Oct. 22 against Covenant Christian (home) and Nov. 5 against Sherwood Christian (away).