2024 South Georgia Football Preseason
Champ L. Baker III, MD
Brook Bearden, MD
Kevin J. Collins, MD
Edgar J. Dollar II, DO
Patrick J. Fernicola, MD
Fred Flandry, MD
Ryan M. Geringer, DO
Bradley L. Young, MD SPORTS MEDICINE
Garland K. Gudger, Jr., MD
Charles W. Hartzog, Jr., MD
Matthew Heaton, MD
Kurt E. Jacobson, MD
Michael Lowery, MD
R. Lee Murphy, Jr., MD
Brent A. Ponce, MD
J. Heath Richter, MD
Matthew G. Stewart, MD
Michael M. Tucker, Jr., MD
G. Dexter Walcott, Jr., MD
Derek A. Woessner, MD
LOCATIONS
Albany | Auburn | Columbus | Dothan | Dublin | Eastman
LaGrange | Macon | Montgomery | Moultrie | Newnan
Thomaston | Thomasville | Tifton | Valdosta | Vidalia | Wetumpka
Contributors
Publisher Mark Dykes
Editor
Anna Limoges
Copy Editors
Phil Jones
Anna Limoges
Graphic Design
Mandy Rodriguez
Feature Photography
James Cochran
Feature Writers
Phil Jones
Advertising/Marketing
Mark Dykes mark@itgnext.com
Feature Story
ITG Next is published bi-monthly. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in part or in full without written consent from the publisher. Dykes Media Group LLC makes no representation or warranty of any kind for accuracy of content. All advertisements are assumed by the publisher to be correct. Copyright 2024 Dykes Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. ISSN 1945-1458.
Worth County
Sumter County DE Jaquaveus McKenzie Ready to Rebound in 2024
Written by: Phil Jones
Photography by: James Cochran
Jaquaveus McKenzie was ready for the 2023 football season. Following a freshman season in 2022 that saw McKenzie earn playing time with the varsity team, mostly on third-down situations rushing the quarterback, while also playing for the junior varsity squad, the defensive end was looking forward to being part of Sumter County’s starting defense in 2023. That anticipation only grew stronger following a couple of impressive performances in Sumter County’s two preseason scrimmage games. Everyone could see it. McKenzie was ready for the next step.
Finally, the 2023 season opener had arrived. It was a highly anticipated matchup between the Panthers and the Houston County Bears, one of the state’s top Class 6A programs led by one of the state’s top quarterbacks in Antwann “AJ” Hill.
McKenzie’s job as a defensive end was to get after the quarterback, and the opening
game against Hill and Houston County would be an immediate test for him.
That test ended about as quickly as it started.
“I Knew It Was Bad”
Houston County and Hill had the ball early in the first quarter.
On a running play, McKenzie was taking on a block when his right knee buckled. Head coach Will Rogers remembers the play.
“Quay (McKenzie) was taking on a ‘kick out’ block by an H-back for the other team,” Rogers said. “He tried to split it, but you could see his knee just give out. I knew it was bad.”
McKenzie had suffered a serious injury: a complete tear of his ACL and MCL. His season was over.
“Losing Quay was a huge loss for us,” Rogers said.
It has also been tough for McKenzie.
“Quay has fought through the mental battles that something like that can do to anybody,” Rogers said. “I watched how it was breaking him down emotionally right after he suffered the injury.”
Vincent Kearse, whose son Aaron “AJ” Kearse is a standout player for the Panthers and McKenzie’s teammate, is close to McKenzie. The elder Kearse talked about how hard it was as a parent
and a fan of the team to watch McKenzie go through the injury and its impact on the young man.
“Quay was so devastated when he first injured his knee because he was looking forward to having a good season,” Kearse said. “He loves to compete.”
Once the shock of the injury subsided, McKenzie underwent surgery to repair his damaged knee. The operation was performed by Macon orthopedic surgeon Dr. L. Jared Hudspeth, according to Rogers. The surgery was followed up with weeks and weeks of intense rehabilitation.
“Quay began to really focus on his road to recovery,” Rogers said. “He began to motivate himself and attack his rehab. He began to really grind.”
McKenzie had turned his attention and focus to doing whatever it took to get back to playing football.
“Quay is a fighter and a very determined young man,” Vincent Kearse said. “He’s been working very hard with his rehab.”
Following a season of rehabilitation and watching his teammates from the sideline while balancing on crutches, the time has come to hopefully see McKenzie’s return to the field in 2024.
Rogers said that McKenzie will have his final appointment on July 25, and the expectation is that the defensive end will be
cleared to return to play. It will be McKenzie’s junior season.
Rogers said he can’t wait to get McKenzie back.
“We expect him to return to the same great player he was before the injury,” Rogers said. “We expect a huge season from him and the rest of our defensive line. It’s the strength of our team.”
For Kearse, it’ll be good to see the young McKenzie back out there doing what he loves.
“Quay loves to compete, and he loves to smile,” Kearse said. “He’s a fighter and a very determined young man. I can't wait to see him smile again.”
McKenzie and his Sumter County teammates will open their 2024 season on Aug. 16 at Crisp County.
APPLING COUNTY
Written by: Phil Jones
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
The Pirates have some solid skill position players and a couple of big bodies who’ll play on both the offensive and defensive lines returning in 2024.
Senior wide receiver Kellon Echols is back to give returning quarterback Dayson Griffis a familiar target on offense. The senior signal-caller will also handle punting chores for the team again this season.
Returning to help the team in several areas once again will be athlete Mykel Crayton. The junior will be counted on as a receiver and on special teams.
Junior Edwin Burt and senior Jeremiah Ryals are each back to play on both the offensive and defensive lines.
Appling County will lose some solid talent heading into the 2024 season, especially on defense.
The defensive line is one area in particular that head coach Jordan Mullis and his defensive staff will need to focus on after losing three starters there.
Defensive linemen Darion Smith and Mykel Reed will both continue their football careers at Georgia Military College. Reed also started on the offensive line, so his loss will be felt on that side of the ball too.
Jailan Bennett will also leave a void as the defensive lineman graduates and takes his talents to Western Carolina.
Speedy wide receiver and defensive back Camden Hickox is headed to Yale University, while his teammate and fellow WR/DB Nehemiah Howard graduates.
Appling County will roll into the 2024 season with their quarterback and key receivers returning, and Mullis thinks that will give his team a bit of an edge this year.
“I think we have a pretty strong group of
quarterbacks and wide receivers for a 2A school,” Mullis said.
Mullis said an area of concern may be maintaining consistency and overall team experience.
WHAT TO EXPECT PREDICTION
If the Pirates survive what looks to be one of the state’s hardest schedules, it could all prove to make Appling County that much tougher once the postseason begins.
baldwin COunty Schools
Lamar County Schools
Colquitt County Schools
Lamar County Schools
Valdosta City Schools
BAINBRIDGE
Written by: Phil Jones
Walls said the Bearcats welcome back linebacker Braylon Phillips, safety TaShaun Carter, and defensive lineman De’Shaun Smith on the defensive side this season. Phillips and Carter are seniors, while Smith returns for his junior season.
On offense, the Bearcats will be young, returning offensive lineman Truman Butler and receiver Camryn Scott, who Walls said could be starters this year.
Sophomore quarterback Vontrey Willingham, junior running back Markavion Johnson-Smith, and junior wide receiver and defensive back Jah’Bari Smith could be in the mix at some point this season, although Walls conceded that they “have not yet played any meaningful snaps.”
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES WHAT TO EXPECT
The Bearcats have some big time holes to fill for 2024, but Bainbridge seems to produce great athletes year after year regardless of losing talent to graduation.
That is the case this season with returning linebacker Braylon Phillips, who will be a leader on defense, and Camryn Scott, who will be a factor on offense and special teams again.
New head coach Jay Walls will need to replace four big-time performers who have moved on from their successful Bainbridge careers. They are running back Keenan Phillips, cornerback and receiver Antavious Murphy, quarterback and defensive back Cam Sanders, and offensive and defensive lineman Kahleem Murphy.
“Those guys were All-State players last year,” said Walls, who takes over for former head coach Jeff Littleton. “It’s tough losing them.”
Other top players who Walls said will be missed are tight end and defensive end Samuel Haire, nose tackle Don’Terrius Williams, star (linebacker) Javon Cox, and cornerback Jace Weaver.
Walls has an excellent track record of building winning programs wherever he has coached, as evidenced by his time at Suwannee High School in Live Oak, Florida; at Tift County High School in Tifton, Georgia; and at Navarre High School in Navarre, Florida.
With an experienced coach like Walls coming into a solid program like Bain-
bridge, Bearcat fans shouldn’t expect anything but another winning season in 2024, even facing one of the toughest schedules in the state.
The Bearcats keep on winning with Walls and finish 8-3 overall.
Coffee Cook @ Ware County Tift County
Cairo
Thomas Co. Central Westover Peach County @ Monroe
Dougherty
RACHAEL DERISO
Albany (229) 485-1306
RONNISHA DAVIS
Albany (229) 230-6003
BOONE FELTS
Albany (229) 485-1277
LYNN MURRAY
Americus (229) 389-2441
LANCE WILSON
Bainbridge (229) 246-1076
JEFF RICH
Bainbridge (229) 246-8212
ADELA FORD
Camilla (229) 336-0441
Cairo (229) 377-7793
ZANE HOOD
Leesburg (229) 307-5002 DAVID
Moultrie (229) 985-4747
BART HESTER Moultrie (229) 516-6057
BERNIE HALL
Thomasville (229) 226-4501
REGION 1 - 1A - DI
HEAD COACH: KEN ELDRIDGE
Written by: Phil Jones
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6 16 1 4 27
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Returning to the Berrien offense are offensive linemen Nathan Scheller and Lawson Webber. Together they will pave the way for returning running back Tre’Shon McQueen, a junior who will also return kicks again this season.
The defense will be bolstered by the return of several key starters from last year, including senior defensive lineman Shon McQueen, who had 22 tackles and a forced fumble last year.
Linebacker and long snapper Tanner Beau Lindsey will be back.
Defensive backs Nijel Johnson and Randy Hughes were both impact players in 2023, and they return for the 2024 season.
Johnson also played at running back and returned kicks last season. He had 28 tackles along with a kickoff returned for a TD and a rushing TD.
Hughes had 44 tackles and came up big with four interceptions in the Berrien secondary in 2023.
One of Berrien High School’s all-time great players has moved on, and it’s safe to say Josiah Davis will be missed. The all-around athlete made an impact for the Rebels during his career, playing everywhere he was needed, including at quarterback last season.
Davis was one of the state’s top kick returners in 2022, returning seven kickoffs for a touchdown. In 2023 teams decided to not kick to him.
Davis is now a safety with the Florida Gators.
Other key members of Berrien’s football program who will not be back in 2024 are offensive lineman Brady Warren, wide receiver Zachary Davis, and linebacker Carlos Velazquez.
Ken Eldridge will be back for his second season as the head coach in Nashville, Georgia, and he’s implementing a new-look offensive scheme that he hopes will improve the Rebels’ average of 17 points per game from a year ago.
Eldridge is approaching the season with guarded optimism.
WHAT
“There are holes to fill and questions to be answered,” Eldridge said. “A lot of young players that finished the season with significant playing time are returning and will be expected to step up in our new offensive system.”
Eldridge said the team has benefited from the strength and conditioning pro -
gram this offseason, and he expects that to translate to a more physical brand of football in 2024.
“We want to play with more excitement, and our expectation is to be more physical this year,” he said.
Look for an improved Berrien team in 2024 as the Rebels finish 5-5 in a tough new region.
Thomasville
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REGION 1 - 1A - DI
HEAD COACH: DAVID SHORES
Written by: Phil Jones
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6 16 1 27 20
WHO’S BACK
Among the Herons returning this year is senior defensive end Carson Jacobs, who has made 90 tackles over the last three seasons, including 14 tackles for loss and six sacks.
Other key returners include running back and safety Gavin Batten and center Kyler Knox, both seniors. Batten had 74 carries for 369 yards and a touchdown last season.
Returning athlete and linebacker Hayden Hickox, a junior, had 29 tackles and rushed for 92 yards and a touchdown in 2023. He also returned kicks and will likely resume that role in 2024.
The other Class of 2026 returner is Mason Kicklighter, who had 36 tackles last season.
KEY LOSSES
The Herons lose two quarterbacks: Kirkland Cannon graduates, while his younger brother, Charlie, heads to Coosa with former head coach Geoff Cannon, who is now the head coach at the Rome school.
Also lost to graduation is receiver and defensive back Greysen Guy, who finished his time at Brantley County with 535 career receiving yards and six touchdowns. He also had a kick returned for a touchdown.
Ronin Guy, who played receiver, defensive back, and also returned kicks at Brantley County, will not return. His production included 20 tackles, 265 receiving yards, and a kickoff return average of 16.5 yards per return.
Wide receiver and defensive back Luke Carter will not return.
New Brantley County head coach David Shores is no stranger to South Georgia high school football, and the veteran coach is looking forward to getting started in Nahunta.
“I expect us to compete for a playoff spot in the first year, but we know it will be a tough ticket with several tough teams in our region this year,” he said.
In addition to those players returning from last season, Shores said he’ll have some new players in Nahunta in 2024.
“We have several new faces on the field this year, including quarterback Kaden Hendrix and wide receiver Devein Sanders, so I’m hoping to be pleasantly surprised by their production this season,” Shores said.
WHAT TO EXPECT PREDICTION
The Herons battle to a 5-5 record in 2024.
@ Charlton County Windsor Forest @ Pierce County Vidalia
Berrien @ Bacon County
2024 Georgia High School Football Preseason Rankings:
Top 10 Teams in Class 6A
1. Buford
2. Carrollton
3. Douglas County
4. Grayson
5. Colquitt County
6. Camden County
7. Newton
8. Collins Hill
9. Mill Creek
10. North Cobb
Top 10 Teams in Class 5A
1. Milton
2. Coffee
3. Thomas County Central
4. Gainesville
5. Lee County
6. Rome
7. Woodward Academy
8. Houston County
9. Hughes
10. Roswell
BROOKS CO.
REGION 2 - 1A-DI HEAD COACH: JOSH MCFATHER
Written by: Phil Jones Game to Watch
13 16 1 27 20 11 25 4
30 6
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Chris Cole Jr. returns at running back. He rushed for 1,726 yards and 18 touchdowns last year, and he’ll be counted on to lead the offense in 2024.
Senior Camauri Brinson returns at wide receiver and defensive back. He was an All-State and All-Region performer on defense with 13 interceptions last year.
Wide receiver George Lamons Jr., who had six receiving and four rushing TDs last year, is back.
Offensive lineman Cameron Cobb returns, along with sophomore Junior Burrus, who will be Brooks County’s quarterback for 2024. All-Region kicker Rafael Mojica returns for his junior season. He was 46 of 49 on all kicks in 2023.
Defensive end Marquis Williams, the region’s 2023 Defensive Player of the Year, is back, along with defensive back Traeviss Stevenson, defensive tackle Tamarion Kimbrough, and outside linebacker Anton Graham. Defensive end Demarrion Washington moves to linebacker, replacing Best.
The Trojans will begin the 2024 season without longtime head coach Maurice Freeman, who announced this offseason that he was leaving Brooks County.
Freeman served two separate stints as the Brooks County head coach, with his most recent tenure lasting from 2008 to 2023. He first coached at Brooks County from 1994 to 1997.
Previously the offensive coordinator, Josh McFather has taken over head coaching duties and will remain the interim head coach for the 2024 season, according to WCTV.
As far as players who are leaving, the Trojans will miss linebacker Markel Best. He is the lone player from last year’s starting defensive 11 who will not be back for 2024, but it’s a big loss. Best had a team-leading 76 tackles, including one quarterback sack. He also had an interception and a fumble recovery.
The offense will miss Javen Watts, who saw time at quarterback, H-back, and tight end during his career at Brooks County.
Best and Watts were ITG Next’s 2023 Brooks County Defensive and Offensive Players of the Year, respectively.
Another big loss, literally, is 6-foot, 360-pound right tackle Jayden Williams, whom McFather described as “dominant.”
Look out for Brooks County in 2024. They bring back experience, especially on defense with all but one starter returning. Eight of the 10 returning starters on defense were named All-Region last year.
The Trojans are loaded with size and next-level talent among their skill position players and on both sides of the line. They will have one of the top kickers in the history of Brook County back this season too.
Brooks County has a tough regular-season schedule to get through, but once they hit the playoffs, look out. This roster gives the Trojans a great chance to win a state title in 2024. I see a 12-3 season with a trip to the state championship game.
Thomasville @ Cook @ Worth County
Written by: Phil Jones
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18 25 4 30 6
13
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Cairo welcomes back sophomore Bryian Duncan, who enjoyed a breakout freshman season in 2023. He had 73 carries for 524 yards and five touchdowns, and he had an interception as a defensive back. He’ll likely be counted on to contribute once again on both sides in 2024.
Among other key offensive returners is a trio of offensive linemen: sophomore guard Jace Jones, senior tackle Luis Martin, and junior tackle Darrius Simmons.
Returning to the Cairo defense in 2024 are senior defensive back Zo Harvey, who started every game last year, and defensive end and outside linebacker Dmauri Wooden. Simmons will be counted on to contribute to the defensive line in addition to his offensive line duties.
Cairo head football coach David Coleman has to replace some solid talent this year, including offensive playmakers who have graduated.
That group includes standout offensive tackle Cade Puckett and wide receiver Amari Powell, who both committed to Georgia State University. Powell had 48 career receptions for 691 yards and five touchdowns with the Syrupmakers.
Keshen “KJ” Spence also takes his talents to the collegiate level after a senior year that saw him rush for 840 yards and 17 touchdowns. He is now at Fort Valley State University.
Athlete Corey Baker leaves behind a stellar high school career that saw him accumulate a combined total of 998 yards rushing and receiving with 10 total touchdowns.
The Syrupmakers have a new-look region in 2024 with Monroe and Peach County joining Region 1-3A as part of GHSA’s reclassification cycle.
Coleman said the team will head into 2024 counting on experience in some areas, with younger players expected to contribute in other areas.
WHAT TO EXPECT
“We’ll have most of our players returning on the offensive line and defensive line and a few key players in the secondary and on the perimeter,” Coleman said. “We expect our younger players to step in and compete for roles on this year’s team too.”
Cairo will have a new face competing at quarterback as highly touted freshman
Bryce Puckett joined the Syrupmakers this offseason. He is considered to be one of the top QBs in the Class of 2028 and could compete for the starting job on the 2024 Cairo squad.
Can Cairo make a run at the region title this season?
@ Thomas Co. Central
Thomasville Kathleen (FL) @ Cook @ Wakulla (FL)
Bainbridge Monroe Dougherty @ Peach County @ Westover
CAMDEN CO.
COACH: TRAVIS ROLAND
Written by: Phil Jones
WHO’S BACK
Camden County brings back a good bit of talent from last year’s 10-win, semifinal squad.
That includes quarterback Parks Riendeau, who will be counted on to run the Wildcats’ new offensive attack installed by new head coach Travis Roland. Riendeau, a junior, passed for 1,180 yards and 15 TDs in a run-heavy offense last season.
Riendeau will be throwing to one of the best receiving targets in the state this season in five-star tight end Elyiss Williams, who is widely considered the top prospect at his position in Georgia.
Williams has elite company returning along the offensive line with linemen Tazio Rosso, Anthony Green, and Zachary Taylor all back for their senior seasons.
Defensively, Camden County brings back a ton of talent, including All-Region defensive lineman Malaki Mowan; highly recruited junior cornerback David Coleman Jr., who will also return punts again this year; junior linebacker Xavier Brown; and senior safety Jamaric “Jam” Daley.
KEY LOSSES
The Wildcats’ biggest losses heading into 2024 come on the defensive side, especially up front.
Linebacker Cooper Thornhill leaves behind a stellar Camden County career that saw him rack up 312 tackles with four sacks.
The Wildcats will also miss fellow linebacker Antonio Laws, who also saw time at running back in 2023. Laws had 51 tackles last season and two career interceptions on defense, and on offense he rushed for 10 TDs on 49 carries in 2023.
Another two-way player who will be missed is defensive end and tight end DeNigel Cooper, a three-star recruit who is now enrolled at Appalachian State University.
Defensive lineman Tyler Higginbotham leaves Camden County with 139 career tackles, including 81 tackles with a sack in 2023.
Longtime head coach Jeff Herron announced his retirement this offseason.
Expect big things from a talented Camden County program in 2024. They have one of the most talented and experienced lines returning this season, and it always helps having an experienced starter at QB returning as the Wildcats do with Riendeau. Roland takes over as head coach, and he
arrives after leading Mainland High School to the Class 3S state title game in Florida the last two seasons, winning it in 2023.
Roland said that he expects the winning culture that Herron delivered at Camden County last season to continue with him and his staff now taking over.
“I expect us to compete for the region title, make it to Thanksgiving weekend, and once again fight for the chance to be among the state’s elite programs,” Roland said.
@ Brunswick East Lake (FL)
West Broward (FL)
Ribault (FL)
Spruce Creek (FL) @ Valdosta
Richmond Hill
Lowndes
Colquitt County
Tift County
CLINCH CO.
HEAD COACH: JIM DICKERSON
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
6 16 1 27 13 11 25 4 23 30
Among the Panthers returning this year, you can include former Clinch County head football coach Jim Dickerson, who is back as head coach. A decision will be made at season’s end whether Dickerson will remain in that role.
Dickerson said the top players returning include junior linemen Alvin Green and Calyja Lee.
Xavion Johnson, a player whom Dickerson described as a Swiss army knife, will return. Johnson earned that name because he can play anywhere, including running back, linebacker, and along both offensive and defensive lines.
Senior quarterback and strong safety Aaron Bryant had 194 carries for 1,443 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2023, along with 433 yards passing and five TDs. He rushed for over 100 yards in nine of the Panthers’ 13 games last season.
Sophomore Travis Miller will return at outside linebacker.
Fellow linebacker Blaze Small also returns.
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES WHAT TO EXPECT
Dickerson said that Clinch County is in a good place.
“The culture is really good here, and the (coaching change) transition has been very smooth,” he said.
Voluntary offseason workout attendance has been right at 100%, the veteran
Clinch County’s biggest loss from last year’s 11-win team is Jeremy Bell, who turned down several full scholarship offers to accept a preferred walk-on at the University of Georgia.
The last two seasons at Clinch County saw Bell make quite the impact on offense and special teams. He had 1,156 yards receiving with 14 touchdowns over the past two seasons, and he rushed for 943 yards with 16 TDs last year alone. Bell also had a rushing TD in 2022. On special teams he had 1,064 return yards on kickoffs and punt returns, including one kickoff returned for a TD and one punt returned for a TD last season.
Another talent who will be missed is offensive and defensive lineman Elijah Cobb.
coach said, and the team has worked hard in the weight room. The Panthers did not have spring practice, but Dickerson likes what he has seen so far and feels like the team is ready to go.
“We have about 45-50 kids on the roster, and that’s what we’ll go into the season
with,” Dickerson said.
Clinch County will be young with just four seniors on the team, but there’s still a lot of experience as most of the team’s starters played as freshmen, sophomores, and juniors.
9-4 overall record. Clinch County will have Brooks County and Irwin County as new region mates in 2024, so another region title could be tough.
COFFEE
REGION 2 - 5A HEAD COACH: MIKE COE
Written by: Phil Jones
16
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WHO’S BACK
13
The Trojans welcome back James Jarrard and Bray Coe at receiver, along with Jaydon Vester, Tico Smith, Kyler Smith, and Jaylon Simpkins on the offensive line.
Running back Tyrese Hansley will step in to fill the void left by Brown’s departure.
Also returning to the offensive backfield are KJ DeBruce, Travis Adams, and Tyrese Woodgett, who will also return kicks and punts.
Coffee returns defensive lineman Iverson Gifford and linebackers Chris Reed, Jyarius Carter, and Mykevius Smith.
The defensive backfield will have Isaiah Johnson, Jayden Hancock, and Adams.
KEY LOSSES
Among the top players Coffee will miss in 2024 are team captains Patrick McCall and Tyriq Edwards. McCall played primarily at slot receiver, and Edwards played at receiver and defensive back. Running back Fred Brown, the ITG Next 2023 Offensive Player of the Year, was the team’s offensive heartbeat all season with his 358 carries, 2,488 yards rushing, and 24 touchdowns leading the way.
Quarterback Maurice Hansley leaves with over 3,000 yards passing during his career at Coffee. In 2023 he passed for 16 TDs, rushed for seven TDs, and completed 71% of passes with just two interceptions.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Head coach Mike Coe begins his third season at Coffee, and expectations are high after leading the Trojans to their first state title in 2023. Coe said an area of concern is depth in certain areas of the team and the need to stay healthy this year, especially with Coffee heading into Region 2-5A, which includes opponents Lee County and Thomas County Central.
But even with Brown graduating, Coe said that depth at the RB position will be one of the team’s strengths, as will team speed.
“Getting Tyrese Woodgett back is huge,” Coe said. “He is a great return man and has legit 4.4 speed.”
As far as replacing Brown, Coe said it will be an RB-by-committee approach.
“Halsey will be the hammer, and the other three can fly,” Coe said.
PREDICTION
Look for another 9- or 10-win season for the Trojans with a couple of playoff wins in 2023.
Rankings: Top 10 Teams in Class 4A
1. Benedictine
2. Perry
3. Warner Robins
4. Marist
5. Starr’s Mill
6. Creekside
7. Central (Carroll)
8. Cartersville
9. Stockbridge
10. Ware County
COLQUITT CO.
REGION 1 - 6A HEAD COACH: SEAN CALHOUN
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
23 30
Returning to lead the Colquitt County defense are a couple of senior defensive linemen in Jartavius Flounoy and Amari Wilson, along with senior defensive back Jah’Boris Fuller.
Linebacker Chance Sims, who was second in team tackles behind Pace last season, returns for his junior season.
The offense welcomes back running backs Day’shawn Brown and Ramsey Dennis, along with O-linemen Khalil Collins and Casey Scott.
Special teams has always been a major part of the Pack’s success, and having the duo of kicker Brett Fitzgerald and long snapper Chason Glenn back is a huge benefit for Colquitt County.
Fuller will also see time on special teams as a returner in 2024.
WHO’S BACK WHAT TO EXPECT KEY LOSSES PREDICTION
Colquitt County lost a lot of the talent responsible for the team’s 25 wins and back-to-back region championships over the past two seasons.
However, head coach Sean Calhoun has a lot of talent in the pipeline due to Colquitt County’s middle school success, and that should keep the Pack in good shape heading into this season and beyond.
“I feel excited and anxious to see how this team gels and plays together during the spring, summer, and the fall,” Calhoun said. “We will have a lot of new faces, but those faces are very talented and know what it means to play Packer football.”
The Packers lose some top talent from last year’s 12-win team on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball.
Tight end Landen Thomas, wide receiver Ny Carr, and quarterback Neko Fann were the heart and soul of a Colquitt County offense that averaged 44 points per game in 2023, and their production and leadership will be missed.
On defense, Colquitt County’s linebacker corps has been hit hard by graduation. Gone are Nick Pace, Tyshon Reed, and Kenyon Solomon. Pace led the team in tackles last year with 151, while Reed and Solomon led the team in sacks with seven combined.
Defensive back Ka’marian Williams had a team-leading four interceptions in 2023.
Points Scored
Points Allowed 288
572
The Packers reload and make a run at the Class 6A state championship with a 14-1 record.
West (UT)
Monroe North Gwinnett
Lee County
Rickards (FL)
Lowndes @ Valdosta @ Tift County @ Camden County
Richmond Hill
COOK
REGION 3 - 2A HEAD COACH: BYRON SLACK
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
6 16 1 20 13 11 25 4 23 30
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Cook will have MJ Tippins back, and head coach Byron Slack said that the junior will be expected to “foot the bill at QB” this year.
Two other juniors returning to the offense are offensive tackle Kyle Terrell and wide receiver Jacarre Johnson.
Slack said his top three returners on defense in 2024 are senior outside linebacker Tereon Jones, sophomore inside linebacker Bralyn Bennett, and freshman Jaiden Knight, who will move to inside linebacker.
Cook welcomes back five-star punter Brooks Moore, one of the best in the state at his position. Kohl’s has him ranked as the No. 1 punter for the Class of 2026. Moore averaged an incredible 42.9 yards per punt last season for the Hornets.
The Hornets must replace starting quarterback Drew Folsom, who really bloomed last year, throwing for 2,513 yards and 25 touchdowns while leading the Hornets to an 11-win season. He leaves as Cook’s all-time leading passer, surpassing the record that was previously held by his older brother, Zach Folsom.
Cook will also miss Folsom’s favorite receiver target as wideout Ny’Shaun Wallace has graduated. The standout leaves as Cook’s all-time leading receiver, and his impact as a special teams performer for the Hornets will be missed too.
Cook will have to replace a key member of the offensive line with the departure of tackle Kyshawn Pitts.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Cook raised the bar in 2023 by advancing to the Class 2A state semifinals. This year they move to a new region with all new region opponents, including defending state champion Pierce County.
Slack said his team is ready for the new challenge and that a tough non-region schedule should have them prepared for their region schedule.
“We are focusing on competing with these great teams that we have been aligned with,” he said.
The Hornets will have plenty of youth on their team, but Slack said that’s not a bad thing.
“We will be very young, but that is a good thing in my book,” Slack said. “We are working to take that next step with our program.”
PREDICTION
Cook will compete for the title in their new region. Look for a season with 10 or more wins.
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2024 Georgia High School Football
Preseason Rankings: Top 10 Teams
Class 3A Class 2A
1. Calvary Day
2. Jefferson
3. Cedar Grove
4. Sandy Creek
5. Oconee County
6. Spalding 7. Calhoun
8. Monroe Area
9. Mary Persons
10. Cairo
1. Prince Avenue Christian
2. Pierce County
3. Cook
4. Appling County
5. Rockmart
6. Callaway
7. Lovett
8. Columbia
9. Burke County
10. Westside (Macon)
CRISP CO.
REGION 3 - 2A
COACH: LAWRENCE SMITH
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
6 16 1 20 13 11 18 4
23 30
WHO’S BACK
The Cougars bring back a lot of talent and experience this season, including junior wide receiver Deshaun Fedd, who had 42 catches for 790 yards and seven touchdowns in 2023.
He’ll be looking to get the ball from junior quarterback Hagan Slimp, who passed for 1,305 yards with 12 touchdowns in just nine starts last year.
Slimp will line up under returning center Dustin Griffin, who started all 12 games last year and registered 26 knockdown blocks while grading out at 88%.
The defense welcomes back three-star defensive back Cayden Daniels, who had 38 tackles with six interceptions in 2023. Daniels, a senior, announced his commitment to Vanderbilt on June 10.
Defensive lineman and outside linebacker Zymarion Hudson returns for his senior year, and he enjoyed a junior season in 2023 with 50 tackles and six sacks.
Senior Traylon Felton is back at defensive tackle.
KEY LOSSES
Crisp County and head coach Lawrence Smith will miss standout offensive lineman Barry Walker, who enrolled at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Walker was a key run-blocker and provided pass protection last season.
Other key members of the 2023 Crisp County squad are also moving on to play collegiately.
Three-star linebacker Kevon Merrell enrolled early to start his next chapter of football at East Carolina University.
Athlete Carjarian Jones, who did a little bit of everything during his time at Crisp County, will likely see time at safety for Berry College.
WHAT TO EXPECT
After advancing to the second round of the state playoffs in 2023, Smith and his staff are ready to go even farther in 2024. “I am excited about this season with some great talent returning for us this year” Smith said. “Our expectations this year are to continue to improve and become a program that is mentioned with the top powerhouses in South Georgia as well as the state of Georgia.” Crisp County moves to Class 2A for 2024, and their region will be tough to navigate with opponents like Pierce County, Appling County, and Cook.
“They will all present huge challenges for us, and we will have to bring our A-game every week,” Smith said.
The Cougars lost some top level talent, and finding playmakers to replace them could be the difference in Crisp County making that run once again in the state playoffs.
PREDICTION
Crisp County finishes 7-5 once again.
Sumter County @ Lovett @ Fitzgerald Peach County @ Dougherty
Swainsboro @ Tattnall County @ Appling County Pierce County Cook
Learn more at crispregional.com
DEERFIELD-WINDSOR
Written by: Phil Jones
6 16 25 27 20 11 18 4 23 30
WHO’S BACK
Returning this season to lead the offense is quarterback Lane Sceals. The junior is coming off a great 2023 season that saw him throw for 1,523 yards and 14 touchdowns. He has a top receiving target returning in senior wideout Jake Hatcher.
Running back Cole Jones returns to give the Knights a twoway weapon. On offense last year he ran for 600 yards on 127 carries with seven touchdowns, while catching 16 passes for 151 yards and a TD. As a linebacker on defense, Jones has 112 tackles over the past two seasons.
Another double-threat returning is senior linebacker and running back Liam Elliott. Over the past two seasons, he made 39 tackles with three sacks and rushed for 426 yards with four TDs.
Burns Holton returns at tight end and linebacker, where he made 57 tackles last year.
Linemen Hudson Abel and Crawford Newman will be back.
KEY LOSSES
Deerfield-Windsor will miss offensive lineman David Mullins, who was involved in a fatal car accident in May. His loss as a great player is coupled with the loss of a great young man. Our condolences go out to his family and teammates.
Two defensive players who had productive careers will not be returning. They are defensive end Jackson Deriso and linebacker John Allen Rigsby. Deriso had 42 tackles with a couple of sacks over the past two seasons, and Rigsby totaled 197 tackles in the 2022 and 2023 seasons combined.
The Knights will miss kicker and punter Waylon Marbury, who finished his career with a 35.5 punting average while connecting on 46-of-51 PATs. He was successful on 5-of-10 field goal attempts over the past two years, with his longest attempt from 48 yards.
Deerfield-Windsor was very young in 2023. They took their lumps with so much inexperience, but head coach Josh McRae said the 2024 squad should be better because of it.
“We are going to be a year older and a year more mature this season,” McRae said. “We are going to have large junior and sophomore classes this year and a small senior class with key leaders in it.
The coaching staff is really excited about this team, and our hope is that we can improve on a 1-9 season last year.”
Phoebe Putney
TIAA Bank Field January 2, 2025
Game to Watch
REGION 1 - 2A - DI
Written by: Phil Jones
20 16 1 4 27 18 25 11 30 13
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Fitzgerald has a few key players coming back in 2024, starting on offense with sophomore quarterback Wilson Davis, who will be counted on to lead the offense.
He’s joined by fellow sophomore Tyson King, who will line up at wing back and be counted on to lead the rushing attack, especially with the heavy losses in the backfield.
Quincy Deberry, a sophomore, returns at tight end to help with both run blocking and the passing game.
Returning on defense are linebackers Kingston Smith and Dewayne Westbrook, and returning in the secondary is cornerback Jason Ferguson.
Head coach Tucker Pruitt said the Purple Hurricane lost 22 seniors from last year’s squad, including the entire starting offensive and defensive lines.
Pruitt said they also graduated their top three rushers on offense, so gone are running backs Bill Boone, Diandre Paschal, and Tyler Williams. That’s huge because running the football is exactly what the Fitzgerald offense is based around.
Also gone is wideout Calvin Tillman, who was the team’s leading wide receiver in 2023.
Fitzgerald will be starting over and looking for offensive playmakers across the board as they head into the 2024 season.
Yes, Fitzgerald lost a lot, but Pruitt has been through it before. He returns for his eighth season as the Fitzgerald head coach, and his team will be as inexperienced as they have been in a few years.
“We will be very inexperienced, but there are some guys that have been working very hard this
WHAT TO EXPECT
offseason, and I think they’re ready to step up and show what they can do,” Pruitt said.
Fitzgerald moves to Class 1A-Division I for the 2024 season, losing rival Cook and former region mates Dodge County and Sumter County. They pick up Thomasville as a new region foe, which Pruitt welcomes.
PREDICTION
“We are looking forward to getting Thomasville back on the schedule,” Pruitt said. “We have enjoyed some great battles with them over the years.”
I look forward to seeing Pruitt work his magic this year. He’s one of the best coaches at developing talent, and he’ll do it again. Look for another season with 10-plus wins.
Irwin County Crisp County @ Brooks County Worth County @ Appling County @ Brantley County Thomasville @ Berrien Bacon County @ Jeff Davis
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LEE CO.
COACH: DEAN FABRIZIO
Written by: Phil Jones
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Head coach Dean Fabrizio has one more season with Ousmane Kromah, who returns for his senior year. The talented running back has been one of the most productive ball carriers in the state during his first three seasons at Lee County, with 5,288 yards rushing and 63 TDs, according to Fabrizio.
Kromah also has 804 yards receiving with 12 TD catches, and he has returned two kickoffs for TDs over the past three seasons. He has averaged 8.9 yards per carry too.
Quarterback Weston Bryan returns for his third season running the offense, with offensive linemen Dylan Richardson and Jace Molden returning too.
On defense, Lee County returns senior linebacker Justyn Tanksley, senior cornerback Jacori White, and senior defensive lineman Deven Jackson.
The Trojans welcome three offseason transfers into camp with the arrival of four-star defensive lineman Jeramiah McCloud, who is a Florida commit; outside linebacker Zech Hall from Gadsden County, Alabama; and wide receiver Ashton Arnett from Luella. All three were previously part of the Lee County program.
Lee County loses two big defensive guys up front as defensive linemen Leroy Jackson and Jaydon Cory graduate. Jackson signed with North Carolina, and Cory is headed to Wingate University. Together they combined for 117 tackles with 17 sacks last season alone.
Another defensive standout takes his talent to the next level as linebacker and strong safety Temirez Williams is now at Georgia Southern University. He leaves with 154 career tackles at Lee County.
Two-way standout Devin “D1” Collier joins Williams at Georgia Southern after a career that saw him rush for 1,465 yards and 27 touchdowns, while collecting 251 tackles with five sacks from his free safety position. He had two interceptions, with one of those returned for a TD, and he returned one kickoff for a TD.
Fabrizio is entering his 16th season with the Trojans, and the Lee County head coach knows this season will be a challenge.
“We will have one of the toughest schedules in the state, and we expect to play in some big time games and atmospheres this season,” Fabrizio said.
After opening against Warner Robins, Lee County will play a three-game stretch against Colquitt County, Thomas County Central, and Coffee.
“Graduation hit the defensive side harder than the offense, but we’ll still return some good young talent,” Fabrizio said.
WHAT TO EXPECT PREDICTION
Kromah has proven he can be a workhorse of a back, and he seems to get better with each carry, especially late in games. With Kromah and starting QB Bryan returning, Lee County will give themselves a chance to win in every game this season.
Sept. 13 at Colquitt County will be one of the top non-region games in the state in 2024.
Warner Robins Hapeville @ Tift County @ Colquitt County Wekiva (FL)
Thomas Co. Central Coffee @ Veterans @ Northside (WR) Houston County
LOWNDES
REGION 1 - 6A
COACH: ADAM CARTER
Written by: Phil Jones
6 16 1 27 13 11 25 4 23 30
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
The Vikings had a young team in 2023, and they still do heading into the 2024 season.
Only four defensive starters return, but they include the team’s top tackler from last year in linebacker Coleman Lewis, who was also the ninth leading tackler in the state in 2023 with 119 tackles.
Also returning to the defense are defensive lineman Kaleb Barron and cornerback Travis Brown.
Lownes returns six starters on offense, including quarterback Marvis Parrish, who has two primary targets returning at wide receiver in seniors Jaylin Carter and Aiden Sefa.
Parrish is effective as a dual-threat QB, having thrown for 2,419 yards and 20 TDs while rushing for 1,036 yards and 18 TDs over the last two seasons.
The Lowndes defense has seven starters not returning.
Among them are defensive back Marlon Evans, who had 93 tackles and three interceptions last season, and outside linebacker Omarion Whitlock, who had himself a solid senior year with three quarterback sacks and a fumble recovery. Whitlock also tallied 28 tackles with 7 ½ tackles for loss.
Carson Page was considered by many to be the best punter in the state, with an average of 35.6 yards per punt.
On offense, five starters graduated, including running back Jacarre “Smoke” Fleming, who had 131 carries for 890 yards and 12 rushing TDs in 2023. He ran for at least 100 yards per game in five games last year. Fleming also had two receiving TDs on 10 total receptions on the year.
Head coach Adam Carter returns for his second season leading the Vikings, and he likes the depth of the seniors.
“Our 2025 Class is a very deep group, and a bunch of this 2025 Class has played meaningful reps over the past two sea-
WHAT TO EXPECT
sons,” Carter said. “With their leadership, we should be able to get this ship going in the right direction.”
Carter said that last year was a learning experience for his young team and that the group should be stronger this season.
PREDICTION
“After going through some growing pains, we feel like physically we are finally getting to a level in which we can compete with everyone on our schedule,” Carter said.
The Vikings get back to their winning ways in 2024 with a 6-5 record.
Jenkins Mt. Zion (Jonesboro) Central Gwinnett Manatee (FL) Kell @ Colquitt County @ Tift County
County
Hill
Valdosta
South Georgia Technical College College Experience
REGION 1 - 2A HEAD COACH: WILL ROGERS
Written by: Phil Jones
13
26 20
17 25 4 23 30
16 1
WHAT TO EXPECT KEY LOSSES
The Panthers welcome back one of the most exciting, young playmakers in Aaron “AJ” Kearse, a junior who will once again play running back and linebacker.
Kearse, who was named the ITG Next 2021-22 Georgia Male Youth Athlete of the Year, is developing into a top offensive talent and has started receiving interest from several Division I schools. He’ll be counted on to contribute to the Sumter County offense in a big way this season.
Joining Kearse on offense are returning wide receiver Corderian Leverett and offensive tackle Bryce Volley.
The top returners on defense are defensive tackle Joshua Coleman, strong safety Keaston Taylor, and linebacker Don Minter.
One of the biggest tasks for head coach Will Rogers heading into the 2024 season is finding a replacement for last year’s starting quarterback, Anthony Tyson.
The dual-threat signal caller rushed for 671 yards and four TDs while passing for 868 yards and seven TDs in 2023. Over the last two seasons, he threw for 961 yards and had just one interception, which was in 2022. Last season he had zero interceptions.
Sumter County loses three starting offensive linemen who are all now playing college football. Bryant Foster and Jacorey Wright are now at Shorter University, while lineman Justin Jones is at Clayton State.
Rogers must replace defensive end Broshaun Snead, who was a force along the defensive front last year for the Panthers.
This will be Sumter County’s most talented team in a while. With that comes big expectations, and Rogers isn’t shy about what he thinks this 2024 team is capable of accomplishing.
WHO’S BACK
“We have extremely high expectations for this upcoming season,” Rogers said. “We have several players returning who will be entering their third season as starters.”
The biggest question that needs answering is who will fill the QB position. As of the spring of 2024, there is a battle for the job, according to Rogers.
“We have two guys competing for it in rising juniors Jayshun Bobbs and Ishmael Jones,” Rogers said.
PREDICTION
@ Crisp County Griffin @ Pike County Kendrick @ Shaw @ Jordan Spencer @ Carver (Columbus)
Hardaway Columbus
REGION 1 - 6A
HEAD COACH: JEFF LITTLETON
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
6 16 1 27 13 11 25 4 23 30
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Returning to the 2024 Tift County offense are junior running backs Kamari Holloman and Shurrod Rich and sophomore wide receiver Dai’jon Hayes.
Returning to give the Blue Devils leadership and experience up front is senior right guard Joseph Forehand.
More experience returns on defense, including senior free safety Jaden Nelson. He had two interceptions in 2023.
Joining Nelson in the defensive backfield are senior cornerback Ahmadre Woods and junior strong safety Bryan Melton. Last year Woods tallied 26 tackles plus a QB sack, and Melton had 38 tackles and an interception.
Senior linebacker Danny Freeman is back. In 2023 he had 42 tackles, including six tackles for loss with a sack, and an interception returned for a TD.
The Blue Devils will look to replace starting quarterback Chris Martin, who is now at Alcorn State University.
Another part of the Tift County offensive unit from last year who will be missed is running back Damion Moate. He rushed for 1,002 yards on 213 carries with six rushing touchdowns in 2023.
Wide receiver Taylan Morrow has graduated, and his production at receiver will be missed. He finished 2023 with 32 receptions for 603 yards and six touchdowns.
Tift County will miss the services of cornerback Zamorian Brown, who ends his Blue Devils career with 13 interceptions and 113 tackles as one of the leaders of the defensive unit.
Most fans and observers of Tift County football expect new head coach Jeff Littleton to eventually get the Blue Devils back to their winning ways, but it may take a year or two to accomplish that. Littleton is a proven coach who led Bainbridge to a
WHAT TO EXPECT
stunning state championship in 2018. Given time, he’ll right the ship at Tift County.
The offense will be young, but the defense returns a good bit of experience in 2024. A good defense is always a good thing.
“We will raise our standards through our core values of pride, toughness, effort, motivation, and trust,” Littleton said about his expectations coming into the Tift County job. “We will also look to control what we can and expect to compete at the highest level of competition.”
PREDICTION
A 5-5 overall record while returning to the former Region 1-7A will be a step in the right direction for the Blue Devils.
DECEMBER 2024
Hughston Clinic COACH OF THE YEAR
ITG Next OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Valdosta Toyota DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
ITG Next SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Farah & Farah FORWARD PROGRESS AWARD
ITG Next SCHOLAR ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
ITG Next COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AWARD
ITG Next MIDDLE SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE YEAR
ITG Next 12TH MAN AWARD
Presented by:
Crisp Academy Crisp County High School
Presented by:
Clinch County High School
Lanier County High School Lowndes High School
Presented by:
Valdosta High School
REGION 1 - 6A
HEAD COACH: SHELTON FELTON
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
6 16 1 27 13 11 27 4 23 30
WHO’S BACK
Returning to the Wildcats in 2024 is quarterback Todd Robinson, who has blossomed into a top Division I prospect heading into his senior season.
This will be Robinson’s third year in the Valdosta offensive system, and he will be surrounded by a lot of returning talent, including sophomore running back and athlete Deron Foster. The former ITG Next Middle School Player of the Year is coming off a strong freshman season debut with the Valdosta varsity, where he rushed for 912 yards with 12 touchdowns.
Wide receiver Prince Jean is back to give Valdosta a major threat in the receiving corps, along with Eli Lewis and Marquis Fennell.
The team welcomes back two-way standout Nykobi Brown, along with defensive backs Jalon Copeland and Cam Brown. The three players are each receiving several Division I offers.
Also returning to the defensive backfield are Seth Brown Jr. and Khalil Mollay, and defensive tackle Marcus Williams returns to the defensive front.
KEY LOSSES
Valdosta loses one of the top defensive ends in the state with the graduation of Eric Brantley. The top recruit is now at Florida Atlantic.
Other big losses to the Valdosta defense are free safety Jaylen Bentley, who signed with Georgia Southern; linebacker Amari Tomblin, who graduated and is now at Reinhardt University; and safety Jabari Baker, who was a captain of the defense last season and is now at Georgia Military College.
Jontavious “Tay” McGriff was a force on Valdosta’s offense as a tight end, on defense at linebacker, and on special teams. His allaround presence will be missed.
The Wildcats will miss two offensive linemen who were critical to the run and pass game in 2023. Offensive tackles Jalen Burgess and Demauree “Smoke” Bennett have taken their talents to the next level, with Burgess joining Bentley at Georgia Southern and Bennett now at Fort Valley State.
2023 STATS
The Wildcats should be strong with several skill position players returning for the 2024 season, especially in the offensive backfield and at receiver, where the team will likely be the deepest talent-wise.
With Robinson returning at QB, he’ll give the Valdosta offense leadership and experience at the team’s most important position.
On the defense, the secondary will have more returning starters than any other area on the team, with head coach Shelton Felton calling it “extremely talented.”
“We are looking to take the next step in competing for a region championship, as well as a playoff run,” Felton said.
WHAT TO EXPECT PREDICTION
10-3 overall record with a chance at a region top seed
(FL)
VALWOOD
Written by: Phil Jones
6 16 25 20 13 11 18 4 23 29
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Valwood welcomes back several key members of last year’s state championship team, including quarterback Tayt Snellgrove. The junior threw for 1,148 yards and 15 touchdowns last year, while rushing for 525 yards with 10 TDs.
Three-star running back Triston White, a senior, is back along with juniors Ian Giddens and Jack Melendez, who return to the line on both sides.
Senior cornerbacks Andrew Belcher and Hudson Paylo return to the secondary. Belcher had 51 total tackles and two interceptions in 2023.
Defensive end Jackson Johnson returns to the Valiants for his senior season. In 2023 he had 61 tackles, including 11 tackles for loss, and four sacks.
Senior linebacker Mills Moorman will hope to build on his performances from the last two seasons, where he had a total of 92 tackles, including six tackles for loss.
Valwood loses four starters from the offensive line, including three-time All-State lineman Conner Hutto.
The Valiants also lose standout skill player De’Mar Riley, who was one of the offensive leaders at running back and receiver and was a top special teams player. Last season he finished with 2,213 all-purpose yards with 23 touchdowns.
Dallas Hatfield and Landen Ryan, both key members of Valwood’s 2023 linebacker corps, have graduated. Hatfield enjoyed a senior season with 81 tackles, including 10 tackles for loss, and an interception.
Hatfield and Riley will remain teammates as both have signed with the Shorter University Hawks.
Head coach Brad Wells returns eight starters from last season’s defense, which played a big role in Valwood’s 2023 state championship win.
Having Snellgrove back at QB is huge, and he’ll have some solid talent surrounding him again in 2024.
Wells said he sees the offensive line as the biggest challenge this year.
“We must rebuild the offensive line this year after losing four starters and a threetime All-State player in Hutto,” he said. Valwood faces a tougher schedule this season than in 2023, but Wells said the goal is for his team to just “be in the mix” once again. That should not be a problem for the 2024 Valiants.
PREDICTION
Valwood will be in the hunt for a second straight state title. Look for a 10-2 season in 2024.
WESTWOOD
Written by: Phil Jones
6 16 18 20 13 4 11 27 23 30
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
Ford was not bashful when talking about his expectations for this 2024 Westwood team.
“This year’s Wildcat team has the size and athleticism that could compete deep into the playoffs,” Ford said. “Our expectations are high with maturity, depth, and experience returning at every position.”
Speaking of experience, there aren’t many coaches around, at any level of football, with Ford’s amount of experience. He returns to the Camilla, Georgia, school for his 31st season overall and his sixth as head coach.
DJ Palmer takes over as offensive coordinator, and Bailey Griffin joins the staff as an offensive and defensive analyst. Patrick Fries will continue as the team’s kicking coach.
According to head coach Earl Ford, the Wildcats lose a few key members from last season’s quarterfinals, seven-win team.
“We lose All-Region, All-State, and all-star running back (and) linebacker Weston Fears from the 2023 team, as well as Luke Moss and Jett Hinteregger, who were both three-year starters on both the offensive and defensive lines,” Ford said.
Another key member from the 2023 team who will be missed is Glynn West.
“Glynn was second on the team last year in receptions and receiving yards,” Ford said.
WHAT TO EXPECT PREDICTION
Ford admits that this year could be a bit of a rebuilding project for his Westwood squad.
“We have got to replace our starting quarterback and receivers,” he said. “We must replace our entire kicking game. Right now, at this point of the offseason, we have no idea who will replace those guys.”
Ford added that the competition for those positions is wide open: “Right now any one of our 17 guys could do it. We must grow up and mature quickly with a roster of mostly young and inexperienced players.”
Westwood is two years removed from a state championship and two straight years of winning football. The last time Westwood was looking at this type of rebuilding situation was in 2019, when they finished with just one win. However, Ford is a state champion-caliber coach, not only in football but also in track, where he has won double-digit state titles for Westwood, so I’d bet that the veteran coach will find a way to lead this team to a respectable 2023 season.
428 Camilla, GA 31730 Office (229) 336-0441
adela.ford@countryfinancial.com www.countryfinancial.com/adela.ford
The Wildcats compete for a state title in 8-man football this year with a 10-2 overall record.
2024 Georgia High School Football Preseason Rankings: Top 10 Teams Class 1A-Division I Class 1A-Division II
1. Swainsboro
2. Savannah Christian
3. Commerce
4. Fitzgerald
5. Thomasville
6. Mt. Vernon
7. Worth County
8. Northeast
9. Dublin
10. Toombs County
1. Brooks County
2. Bowdon
3. Manchester
4. Macon County
5. McIntosh County Academy
6. Clinch County
7. ECI
8. Irwin County
9. Dooly County
10. Schley County
REGION 1 - 1A -DI
HEAD COACH: JEFF HAMMOND
Written by: Phil Jones
Game to Watch
11 18 4 23 30
6 16 25 27 20
WHO’S BACK KEY LOSSES
The Rams return a lot of talent this season, starting with sophomore quarterback Lyndon Worthy. He started as a freshman last year and did quite well, completing 196 of 313 pass attempts (63%) for 2,670 yards and 27 TDs.
Worthy has three-star wide receiver D’ontae “Big Play Tae” Fulton returning as the team’s primary pass catcher this season. Fulton was the 2023 Region Player of the Year and has 2,380 career receiving yards with 28 TDs so far. Fulton, a senior, recently announced his commitment to Georgia State University over about a dozen other offers.
Senior Chase Foley returns along the offensive line.
The defense welcomes back senior linebackers Shermon Smith and Bernard Murphy, along with senior cornerback Roy James.
The Rams lose at least one key player in each area of the team from last year.
Defensive lineman Andrew Dixon graduated. He had 148 career tackles with 33 tackles for loss and 11 ½ sacks.
Corrick Greene will be missed along the offensive line after graduating.
Punter and backup quarterback Lalan Ellis will also not return. Ellis averaged just over 30 yards per punt, while giving the Rams a solid number two QB.
Worth County has to replace wide receiver and defensive back Javen Jackson and his solid production on both sides of the ball. In 2023 Jackson had 31 receptions with 572 yards and eight TDs as a receiver. On defense he ended up with 62 career tackles and an interception in the secondary.
Worth County makes the move to Class 1A-Division I due to reclassification, and with all that returning talent on the roster, look for head coach Jeff Hammond and his Rams to have big expectations this season.
WHAT TO EXPECT
“Offensively we should be pretty solid,” Hammond said. “We return nine of 11 starters from last year, including four of five starters along the offensive line.”
Hammond said the team’s strength on
PREDICTION
defense will be the linebackers.
“All four of our starters at linebacker are returning, along with several others who got valuable experience there last year,” he said.
2024 could be a big year for Hammond and Worth County. Look for a 9-4 season.
