We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Cairo High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Syrupmakers this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 8-3
- Points Scored: 366
- Points Allowed: 197
Key Losses
Cairo head football coach David Coleman has to replace some solid talent this year, including offensive playmakers who have graduated.
That group includes standout offensive tackle Cade Puckett and wide receiver Amari Powell, who both committed to Georgia State University. Powell had 48 career receptions for 691 yards and five touchdowns with the Syrupmakers.
Keshen “KJ” Spence also takes his talents to the collegiate level after a senior year that saw him rush for 840 yards and 17 touchdowns. He is now at Fort Valley State University.
Athlete Corey Baker leaves behind a stellar high school career that saw him accumulate a combined total of 998 yards rushing and receiving with 10 total touchdowns.
Who’s Back
Cairo welcomes back sophomore Bryian Duncan, who enjoyed a breakout freshman season in 2023. He had 73 carries for 524 yards and five touchdowns, and he had an interception as a defensive back. He’ll likely be counted on to contribute once again on both sides in 2024.
Among other key offensive returners is a trio of offensive linemen: sophomore guard Jace Jones, senior tackle Luis Martin, and junior tackle Darrius Simmons.
Returning to the Cairo defense in 2024 are senior defensive back Zo Harvey, who started every game last year, and defensive end and outside linebacker Dmauri Wooden.
Simmons will be counted on to contribute to the defensive line in addition to his offensive line duties.
What to Expect
The Syrupmakers have a new-look region in 2024 with Monroe and Peach County joining Region 1-3A as part of GHSA’s reclassification cycle.
Coleman said the team will head into 2024 counting on experience in some areas, with younger players expected to contribute in other areas.
“We’ll have most of our players returning on the offensive line and defensive line and a few key players in the secondary and on the perimeter,” Coleman said. “We expect our younger players to step in and compete for roles on this year’s team too.”
Cairo will have a new face competing at quarterback as highly touted freshman Bryce Puckett joined the Syrupmakers this offseason. He is considered to be one of the top QBs in the Class of 2028 and could compete for the starting job on the 2024 Cairo squad.
Can Cairo make a run at the region title this season?
Prediction
9-4 overall record with a deeper run in the state playoffs this year compared to 2023.
Game to Watch
Sept. 13 versus Cook
