Jacksonville State Gamecocks:
The Gamecocks are gearing up for an exciting 2024 football season under the experienced leadership of head coach Rich Rodriguez. Following a successful 9-4 record in 2023, the Gamecocks are looking to take a step forward and be a contender in Conference USA.
Offense
Senior Logan Smothers will be the driving force behind the Gamecocks’ offense. Smothers, known for his dual-threat capability, passed for 2,300 yards and 20 touchdowns while rushing for 600 yards and eight touchdowns last season. His ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground will be crucial for Jacksonville State’s success​.
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Junior Anwar Lewis and senior Malik Jackson lead the backfield. Lewis had a breakout year with 900 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, while Jackson added 600 yards and five touchdowns. This tandem provides a balanced and potent rushing attack that can wear down defenses​. The receiving corps is spearheaded by redshirt senior Brannon Spector and junior Jarod Bowie. Spector led the team with 700 receiving yards and six touchdowns, while Bowie added 500 yards and four touchdowns. The ability to stretch the field will be key for the Gamecocks’ offensive potency.
Defense
Senior Chris Hardie and junior Larry Worth are pivotal to the Gamecocks’ defensive scheme. Hardie led the team with 85 tackles and five sacks, while Worth contributed 70 tackles and three sacks. Their leadership and playmaking ability will anchor the defense​.
The defensive front is fortified by senior Jaylen Swain and junior Ricky Samuel. Swain recorded seven sacks and 12 tackles for loss, demonstrating his prowess in disrupting the backfield. Samuel adds strength and depth, contributing significantly to the pass rush and run defense​​. The secondary features senior cornerback Marco Baker and junior safety Fred Perry. Together, they aim to improve the team’s ability to prevent big plays, which hurt them a season ago.
Outlook
The 2024 season will be interesting to see if the Gamecocks can take the next step after a surprisingly positive year 1 in FBS. The T Shoe Index projects the Gamecocks second in the conference, with the fourth-best offense and best defense in the conference, amounting to 8.4 wins.
Pick: Over 8 Wins
