We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Westwood School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Wildcats this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 7-5
- Points Scored: 225
- Points Allowed: 303
Key Losses
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.
Who’s Back
Fortunately for Westwood fans, there’s a good bit of experience and talent coming back in 2024.
Two All-Region players return in senior fullback and linebacker Braxton Ethridge and junior quarterback and safety Andrew Ward.
Three seniors who also return are Bryce Roberts, a two-year starter at wide receiver and cornerback, as well as Larkin Milner and Jack Hawley. Milner and Hawley are both two-year starters on the offensive and defensive lines.
Ford said up-and-coming talents to watch for this year are senior Hayden Cohen, juniors Ki Worsham and Wes Swilley, and sophomore Will Curles.
What to Expect
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.
Prediction
The Wildcats compete for a state title in 8-man football this year with a 10-2 overall record.
Game to Watch
Oct. 4 rematch versus David Emanuel
