Excitement Builds in Newberry for 2024 Football Season
NEWBERRY — The air is thick with anticipation as Newberry College gears up for their 2024 football season, kicking off on September 7th. Fans will gather under the bright lights of Setzler Field for what promises to be an exciting opening matchup against Valdosta State. This meeting marks the fifth time these two schools have squared off, and it’s the first since 2011, adding to the excitement surrounding the game.
The Challenge Ahead
Valdosta State, fresh off a 12-2 season and a heartbreaking loss in the quarterfinals of the NCAA Division II Football Playoffs, will certainly be no easy opponent. On the flip side, the Wolves are determined to shake off a rough 4-7 record from last season. There’s a palpable hunger among the players and coaching staff to turn things around and show their fans better results this time around.
The Quarterback Dilemma
One of the hottest topics as game day approaches is ☑️ who will start at quarterback. Head coach Todd Knight has opted to keep this decision under wraps until kickoff, adding a tantalizing air of mystery for fans and players alike. Over the offseason, the coaching staff put a strong emphasis on finding the right player for this critical position, a decision that will significantly impact the team’s performance.
Last season, the team struggled to find a consistent signal-caller, leading to a revolving door of three different starters. This contributed to a less-than-stellar offensive output, averaging just 19.82 points per game. Come September 7th, fans hope they will see someone who not only elevates the game but inspires confidence throughout the roster.
Strength in the Backfield
However, fans can breathe a little easier knowing that the running back position appears to be in good hands. The dynamic duo of Dwayne Wright and Trakell Murray are back and ready to carry the load. Together, they averaged a whopping 141 rushing yards per game and combined for a commendable 13 touchdowns. Their return is a bright spot for the Wolves as they look to establish a strong ground game while figuring out their passing strategy.
On the outside, look for Keith Desaussure to make some big plays. He provided plenty of explosiveness last season, although the inconsistent quarterback play certainly hampered his production. With a more reliable leader behind center, Desaussure aims to show defenders just how dangerous he can be on the field.
Defensive Adjustments
While the offense is sure to capture attention, the defense also has its share of changes. The Wolves will need to fill crucial gaps left by the departures of standout linebackers AJ Valentine and Quez Smith. They must also replace defensive back Kevon Gregory, who led the team in interceptions last season. These are big shoes to fill, but the coaching staff is confident that the new players stepping in will make their mark.
The Countdown Begins
The countdown to game day is on! Fans are eagerly awaiting the chance to watch their team take the field for the first time this season. Many are optimistic about the Wolves’ potential for improvement, especially with the recent changes in coaching and the roster itself. Will they be able to ride the wave of home-field advantage against a tough opponent? Only time will tell!
Let’s get ready to rally behind our Wolves this September 7th as they embark on a journey that we hope leads to triumphs and maybe even a playoff run. It’s going to be an exciting season ahead!
