Jacksonville State Football Depth Chart: 2024 Season

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Alright, football fanatics! Let’s dive deep into the Jacksonville State Gamecocks' depth chart for the upcoming 2024 season. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting acquainted with the team, understanding the depth chart is crucial for tracking player performance, predicting game outcomes, and generally staying in the loop. We’re going to break it all down, position by position, giving you the inside scoop on who's battling for those coveted starting spots and who's ready to make an impact off the bench.

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is always the headline, right? For the Gamecocks, it’s no different. Let's break down who’s expected to be slinging the pigskin this season.

Starter: Zion Webb – A seasoned veteran, Webb brings experience and a dual-threat capability that keeps defenses on their toes. His decision-making and leadership will be pivotal for the Gamecocks' offense this year. Webb's ability to extend plays with his legs adds another dimension, making him a nightmare for opposing defensive coordinators. Expect him to be the focal point of the offense, orchestrating drives and making key throws when it matters most.
Backup: Te’Sean Smoot – Smoot is the young gun with a high ceiling. He’s got the arm talent and athleticism to push Webb, and he’ll likely see some action to get his feet wet. Smoot represents the future of the quarterback position for Jacksonville State, and his development will be closely watched by coaches and fans alike. While he may not start the season as QB1, his potential is undeniable, and he could become a significant contributor as the season progresses. Keep an eye on him – he's got the potential to be a game-changer.
Third String: Christian Veal - Every team needs depth, and Veal provides just that. A reliable option in practice, he’s ready if his number is called. Veal's role is crucial for maintaining the intensity and competitiveness of the quarterback room. His dedication and preparation ensure that the team is always ready for any situation, and his presence provides valuable support to the starters.

Analysis: Webb's experience gives him the edge, but don't sleep on Smoot. The coaching staff will want to see what he can do, potentially in designed packages or late-game situations. The battle between experience and raw talent will be an exciting storyline to watch throughout the season. The depth chart here is stable, but performance will dictate how much playing time Smoot gets. The dynamics of this position group could significantly influence the team's overall success. The quarterbacks are the heart of the offense, and their performance will be critical to Jacksonville State's aspirations this season.

Running Backs

Now, let's shift our focus to the ground game. A strong running game is essential for controlling the clock and keeping the defense honest. Here’s how the running back situation is shaping up:

Starter: _ Anwar Lewis_ – Lewis is the workhorse. He’s got the size, speed, and power to be a true bell-cow back. Expect him to get the bulk of the carries and be a key part of the Gamecocks' offensive attack. Lewis’s physicality and determination make him a tough matchup for any defense. He's not afraid to lower his shoulder and grind out tough yards, and his ability to break tackles makes him a constant threat to extend plays. Look for Lewis to be a consistent presence in the backfield, wearing down defenses and setting the tone for the Gamecocks' offense.
Backup: Damon Stewart – Stewart brings a different flavor. He’s shiftier and quicker, making him a great change-of-pace back. Stewart’s agility and speed give the Gamecocks' offense a different dimension. He’s elusive in the open field and has the ability to make defenders miss. While he may not be the primary ball carrier, his explosiveness can provide a spark when the team needs a big play. Stewart’s versatility also makes him a valuable asset in the passing game, where he can be a reliable target out of the backfield.
Third String: Kordell Charles - Charles is a bruiser, perfect for short-yardage situations. He's reliable and will likely see action when the Gamecocks need to pound the rock. Charles's strength and determination make him an ideal option for those crucial moments when every yard counts. He's not afraid to take on defenders head-on, and his ability to move the chains can be invaluable in close games. Look for Charles to make his presence felt in goal-line situations and when the Gamecocks need to control the clock late in the game.

Analysis: Lewis is the clear frontrunner, but Stewart’s explosiveness will get him touches. Charles will be key in specific situations. This depth chart provides a solid mix of power and speed, giving the Gamecocks a versatile rushing attack. The blend of different running styles will keep defenses guessing and allow the Gamecocks to exploit mismatches. The success of the running game will be crucial for taking pressure off the quarterback and controlling the tempo of the game. This trio of running backs has the potential to be a formidable force in the conference.

Wide Receivers

The receiving corps is where the excitement happens! Here’s a look at the potential starters and key backups who will be catching passes this year:

Starters:
- Quinton Lane – Lane is the WR1. He’s got the size, speed, and hands to be a true go-to receiver. Expect him to be targeted often. Lane’s ability to win contested catches and stretch the field makes him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' offense. He’s a reliable target in crucial situations and has the potential to make game-changing plays. Look for Lane to be a consistent threat in the passing game, drawing coverage and opening up opportunities for his teammates.
- Sterling Galban – Galban is the reliable slot receiver. Quick, agile, and great at finding the soft spots in the defense. He's a key weapon in the short passing game. Galban’s quickness and agility make him a nightmare for opposing linebackers and safeties. He has a knack for finding open spaces and making tough catches in traffic. Galban’s ability to move the chains and extend drives makes him a valuable asset in the passing game. His reliability and consistency will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success.
- Daveon Porter – Porter brings size and physicality to the outside. He’s a mismatch for smaller corners and a great red-zone threat. Porter's size and strength make him a difficult matchup for defensive backs. He’s a reliable target in the red zone and has the ability to win jump balls. Porter’s physicality and determination make him a valuable asset in the passing game. Look for him to make his presence felt in crucial situations, providing a big target for the quarterback.
Key Backups:
- Jamarye Joiner - Joiner is a speedster who can stretch the field. His ability to take the top off the defense makes him a valuable deep threat. Joiner's speed and acceleration make him a dangerous weapon in the passing game. He has the ability to outrun defenders and make big plays downfield. Joiner’s explosiveness and potential make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' offense. Keep an eye on him – he could become a significant contributor as the season progresses.
- Ahmari Borden – Borden is a possession receiver with reliable hands. He’s a great option on third downs. Borden's sure hands and route-running ability make him a reliable target in crucial situations. He has a knack for making tough catches and moving the chains. Borden’s consistency and dependability make him a valuable asset in the passing game. Look for him to make his presence felt on third downs and in critical moments of the game.

Analysis: This receiving corps has a great mix of size, speed, and reliability. Lane is the clear WR1, but Galban and Porter will get plenty of targets. The depth chart here suggests a versatile passing attack. The variety of skill sets among the receivers will allow the Gamecocks to exploit mismatches and keep defenses guessing. The ability to stretch the field and make tough catches in traffic will be crucial for the team's offensive success. This group of receivers has the potential to be one of the most dynamic in the conference.

Tight Ends

The tight end position is crucial for both blocking and catching passes. Here’s who to watch:

Starter: Sean Brown – Brown is a two-way tight end, capable of blocking and catching. He’s a key part of the Gamecocks' offense. Brown’s versatility and athleticism make him a valuable asset in both the running and passing game. He’s a reliable blocker and a capable receiver, making him a complete tight end. Brown’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. Look for him to make his presence felt as both a blocker and a receiver.
Backup: Dalton Ponce – Ponce is more of a receiving threat. He’s got good hands and can create mismatches in the passing game. Ponce's receiving ability and athleticism make him a valuable asset in the passing game. He has a knack for finding open spaces and making tough catches. Ponce’s potential as a receiving threat will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. Keep an eye on him – he could become a significant contributor as the season progresses.

Analysis: Brown's versatility makes him the starter, but Ponce will see time in passing situations. This depth chart provides a balanced approach at the tight end position. The combination of blocking and receiving skills will give the Gamecocks' offense flexibility and allow them to exploit mismatches. The tight ends will play a crucial role in both the running and passing game, contributing to the team's overall offensive success.

Offensive Line

The big boys up front! The offensive line is the engine that makes everything go. Here’s a projected look at the starting five:

Left Tackle: Malik Clark – Clark anchors the left side, providing protection for the quarterback. His size and strength make him a formidable presence on the line. Clark's ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. He’s a reliable and consistent performer who sets the tone for the offensive line.
Left Guard: Tyler Smith – Smith is a physical guard who excels in run blocking. His strength and determination make him a valuable asset in the running game. Smith's ability to create running lanes and protect the quarterback will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. He’s a tough and dependable player who brings a physical edge to the offensive line.
Center: Tylan Grable – Grable is the quarterback of the offensive line, making calls and ensuring everyone is on the same page. His intelligence and leadership make him a valuable asset to the team. Grable's ability to communicate and make adjustments on the line will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. He’s a smart and reliable player who keeps the offensive line organized.
Right Guard: Jalen Edwards – Edwards is a versatile lineman who can play multiple positions. His flexibility and adaptability make him a valuable asset to the team. Edwards's ability to play multiple positions and contribute in various roles will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. He’s a versatile and dependable player who provides valuable depth to the offensive line.
Right Tackle: Ethan Boyd – Boyd is a strong and athletic tackle who excels in pass protection. His athleticism and technique make him a valuable asset in the passing game. Boyd's ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes will be crucial for the Gamecocks' offensive success. He’s a talented and dedicated player who has the potential to be a standout performer.

Analysis: This unit needs to gel quickly to provide consistent protection and open up running lanes. The depth chart shows a mix of experience and youth. The offensive line's performance will be crucial for the Gamecocks' overall success. Their ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes will determine the team's offensive potential. This group of linemen has the potential to be a dominant force in the conference.

Defensive Line

Moving over to the other side of the ball, the defensive line is where games are won and lost. Here’s a look at the potential starters:

Defensive End: Chris Hardie - Hardie is a disruptive force, known for his pass-rushing ability. Hardie's speed and agility make him a nightmare for opposing offensive tackles. He has a knack for getting to the quarterback and disrupting plays. Hardie’s explosiveness and potential make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.
Defensive Tackle: Kolby Logan - Logan is a run-stopping specialist, clogging up the middle and making it tough to run inside. Logan's strength and determination make him a force to be reckoned with in the trenches. He has a knack for stopping the run and disrupting plays. Logan’s physicality and reliability make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.
Nose Tackle: Jeremiah Harris - Harris is a space-eater, drawing double teams and allowing the linebackers to make plays. Harris's size and strength make him a difficult matchup for opposing offensive linemen. He has a knack for disrupting plays and creating opportunities for his teammates. Harris’s presence in the middle of the defensive line is crucial for the Gamecocks' defensive success.
Defensive End: Shun Moore - Moore is a versatile player who can play multiple positions on the defensive line. Moore's versatility and athleticism make him a valuable asset to the team. He has the ability to play multiple positions and contribute in various roles. Moore’s adaptability and dependability make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.

Analysis: This unit needs to be disruptive and create pressure on the quarterback. The depth chart shows a mix of experience and youth. The defensive line's performance will be crucial for the Gamecocks' overall success. Their ability to stop the run and pressure the quarterback will determine the team's defensive potential. This group of linemen has the potential to be a dominant force in the conference.

Linebackers

The heart of the defense! Here’s a look at the linebacker corps:

Middle Linebacker: Quae Drake – Drake is the leader of the defense, making calls and directing traffic. Drake's intelligence and leadership make him a valuable asset to the team. He has a knack for making plays and keeping the defense organized. Drake’s presence in the middle of the defense is crucial for the Gamecocks' defensive success.
Outside Linebacker: Larry Wooden – Wooden is a physical linebacker who excels in run support. Wooden's strength and determination make him a force to be reckoned with on the field. He has a knack for stopping the run and disrupting plays. Wooden’s physicality and reliability make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.
Outside Linebacker: Jaden Cunningham – Cunningham is a speedy linebacker who can cover a lot of ground. Cunningham's speed and agility make him a valuable asset in pass coverage. He has a knack for making plays and disrupting passes. Cunningham’s athleticism and potential make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.

Analysis: This group needs to be aggressive and make plays. The depth chart highlights a mix of experience and athleticism. The linebackers' performance will be crucial for the Gamecocks' overall success. Their ability to stop the run, pressure the quarterback, and cover passes will determine the team's defensive potential. This group of linebackers has the potential to be a dominant force in the conference.

Secondary

The last line of defense! Here’s a look at the defensive backs:

Cornerback: Decalon Brooks – Brooks is a lockdown corner, known for his coverage skills. Brooks's speed and agility make him a nightmare for opposing wide receivers. He has a knack for shutting down receivers and making plays on the ball. Brooks’s coverage skills are crucial for the Gamecocks' defensive success.
Cornerback: Kendall Randolph – Randolph is a physical corner who excels in run support. Randolph's strength and determination make him a valuable asset in run support. He has a knack for stopping the run and disrupting plays. Randolph’s physicality and reliability make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.
Safety: Dalton Campbell – Campbell is a ball-hawking safety with great instincts. Campbell's instincts and ball skills make him a valuable asset in pass coverage. He has a knack for making plays on the ball and intercepting passes. Campbell’s coverage skills are crucial for the Gamecocks' defensive success.
Safety: Thomas Johnston – Johnston is a hard-hitting safety who provides run support. Johnston's strength and determination make him a valuable asset in run support. He has a knack for stopping the run and disrupting plays. Johnston’s physicality and reliability make him a valuable asset to the Gamecocks' defense.

Analysis: This unit needs to be ball-hawking and prevent big plays. The depth chart showcases a mix of coverage skills and run support. The secondary's performance will be crucial for the Gamecocks' overall success. Their ability to cover receivers, make plays on the ball, and provide run support will determine the team's defensive potential. This group of defensive backs has the potential to be a dominant force in the conference.

Special Teams

Don't forget about special teams! These guys can be game-changers.

Kicker: Alen Karajic – Karajic is a reliable kicker with a strong leg. He’s crucial for putting points on the board. Karajic’s accuracy and power make him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to make field goals and extra points is crucial for the Gamecocks' success.
Punter: Jack Dawson – Dawson is a consistent punter who can flip the field. He’s crucial for field position. Dawson’s consistency and accuracy make him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to punt the ball deep and accurately is crucial for the Gamecocks' success.
Kick Returner: Quinton Lane – Lane’s speed makes him a threat to take it to the house every time he touches the ball. His explosiveness and agility make him a valuable asset on special teams. Lane's ability to make big plays in the return game is crucial for the Gamecocks' success.
Punt Returner: Sterling Galban – Galban is shifty and elusive, making him a dangerous punt returner. His agility and quickness make him a valuable asset on special teams. Galban's ability to make big plays in the return game is crucial for the Gamecocks' success.

Analysis: Special teams can win or lose games. A solid unit is crucial. The depth chart shows reliable players in key positions. The special teams' performance will be crucial for the Gamecocks' overall success. Their ability to make field goals, punt the ball well, and make big plays in the return game will determine the team's potential on special teams.

Alright, folks! That’s a comprehensive look at the Jacksonville State Gamecocks depth chart for the 2024 season. Keep an eye on these players and positions as the season unfolds. It’s going to be an exciting year!