Lake View’s Christian a dual threat

LAKE VIEW—From the first time he lined up on defense in practice his freshman year, Quandon Christian realized one thing.
He loved to hit.

And the Lake View linebacker has had plenty of opportunities to do so the last four seasons as one of the Wild Gators’ most potent defenders.

“He doesn’t shy away from contact, that’s for sure,” first-year Lake View coach Darryl King said. “He’s always one of the first kids out there to attack the ball carrier.”

Christian’s defensive skills have already drawn the interest of several Division I college programs, including Clemson where Christian attended camp and verbally committed during the summer.

But while defense has always been his first choice, like any player on a Class A school, Christian has also spent a lot of time on offense. And in less than two seasons, Christian has emerged as not only one of the top defenders in the Pee Dee, but one of the top running backs as well.

Splitting time with several backs in 2007, Christian gained nearly 1,000 yards. He’s followed that up this season by rushing for 872 yards in seven games.

“Every one of us knows that we have to play well on offense and defense for the team to be successful,” Christian said. “I just try to take what I do on defense and move it over to offense.”

Running wild

Part of Christian’s success on offense has come from dedicating himself to learning a new position, King said.

“All through the summer, Quandon made sure he was in the weight room getting stronger and becoming more physical,” King said. “You can also see a difference in his vision and quickness out there on the field.

“We know now he’s got the ability to break one (for a touchdown) every time he touches the ball.”

Christian has certainly found the end zone numerous times, 13 to be exact. And his 12.2 yards per carry average ranks among the best in the Pee Dee.

“I know my 40 speed is a little better than last year,” Christian said. “That’s been a big key and, of course, my offensive line and my other backs have done an outstanding job blocking for me. My success is really theirs.”

Said King, “Once the offensive line and the other backs clear the way, he’s pretty good at taking on defensive backs. He’s not afraid to run through someone.”

Defense first

Since taking over as the primary back for Lake View last season, Christian has seen a few more college offers come his way.

“I know N.C. State wanted to recruit me as a running back,” Christian said, “but I’m going to stick to playing defense.”

Christian plays outside linebacker for the Wild Gators and has been recruited by Clemson as a linebacker.

“That’s definitely what I see myself doing in college,” Christian said. “Clemson already has enough running backs.”

Christian, King says, will make a great addition to Bowden’s defensive squad.

“He’s physical, of course, and he finishes his tackles,” King said. “Once he wraps you up, very rarely does someone break free.”

Another ring?

Christian’s success coincides with Lake View’s continued success. The Wild Gators are 6-1 and undefeated in Region 8-A, including last week’s 13-6 win over Carvers Bay.

“That was a big win,” King said. “We control our own destiny in the region, but we have a lot of good teams left. The job’s not finished yet.”

Christian was part of Lake View’s 2006 state championship team and would like nothing more than to finish his career with another title.

“We just keep coming out and working hard in practice every day,” Christian said. “We’ve got a long ways to go, but we’re really starting to come together and play like everyone expects us to.”