admin 
A Jax State Offensive Powerhouse in the Making.
By Luke Probasco from The G5 Hive
Welcome to the G5 Hive and our next installment of the Worker Bee Series, where we deep dive into the G5 college football landscape with the folks that know the teams the best. Today, we are focusing on the Jacksonville State Gamecocks, who wrapped up their 2024 spring practice with a spring game on April 13th. The Gamecocks finished 9-4 in 2023 and celebrated their first-ever bowl game victory in their inaugural FBS season with a thrilling 34-31 overtime win over Louisiana.
A Brief History and Community Impact
Jacksonville State is more than just a football team for its community. Located in a small town with a tight-knit population, the Gamecocks have become a central part of the local culture. Fans of all ages passionately support the team, from students and alumni to locals who retire back to Jacksonville to remain close to the action.
Quarterback Room Dynamics
The quarterback position will see significant changes in 2024 with the departure of long-time starter Zion Webb. The spring practice revealed a competitive room with Logan Smothers and Te’Shawn Smoot returning, along with new transfers Tyler Huff from Furman, Griffin Brewster from Kent State, and Zion Turner from Connecticut. The quarterback competition is fierce, and each player brings unique strengths to the table. Logan Smothers, recovering from an arm injury, seems to be the frontrunner due to his experience in the system, but the depth and talent in the room mean that all quarterbacks could see playing time this season.
Running Game Reloaded
The running back group experienced a fair amount of turnover, losing key players like Malik Jackson to graduation and Reggion Bennett and J’Wann Evans to the transfer portal. However, the team brings back Ron Wiggins, Anwar Lewis, and Ty Waymon. Additionally, they added transfers Andrew Paul from Georgia and Michel Dukes from South Florida, bolstering the depth and talent in the backfield. The Gamecocks’ running game is expected to be dynamic, with multiple players likely to contribute throughout the season.
Wide Receivers and the Passing Game
The wide receiver position took a hit with the graduation of top pass catchers Perry Carter and Quinton Lane. Nonetheless, Michael Pettway and P.J. Wells return, providing experienced targets for the quarterbacks. Transfers Brannon Spector from Clemson, Demarcus Lacey from North Alabama, and Samario Rudolph from UAB also join the fold, promising a competitive and talented receiving corps. The Gamecocks will rely on a mix of veterans and newcomers to step up and fill the void left by last year’s graduates.
Versatile Weapon: Carter Lambert
Carter Lambert has emerged as a versatile and dynamic player for the Gamecocks. Known for his incredible speed, Lambert has been utilized in various roles, from fielding punts to running routes and carrying the ball. His athleticism and adaptability make him a valuable asset to the offense, capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game.
Tight End Contributions
The tight end position remains a crucial part of Jacksonville State’s offense. Returning starter Sean Brown was targeted frequently in 2023 and is expected to play a significant role again in 2024. His ability to block effectively and catch passes makes him a dual-threat player and a key component of the Gamecocks’ offensive strategy. Alongside Brown, other tight ends like Jacob Barrick and Alex Wood will also contribute, especially in the blocking game.
Conclusion
As the Jacksonville State Gamecocks prepare for the 2024 season, they do so with a blend of experienced players and new talent eager to make an impact. The team’s success will hinge on how well these players integrate and perform under the pressure of FBS competition. With a supportive community and a dedicated roster, the Gamecocks are poised for another exciting season of college football.
About The Author
