We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Lumpkin County High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Indians this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 12-1
- Points Scored: 545
- Points Allowed: 257
Key Losses
The Indians will have to find a replacement for leading running back Mason Sullens, who ran for 33 touchdowns while rushing for 2,281 yards in 2023. Sullens was a big reason why Lumpkin County had a successful 12-1 season and deep run into the playoffs last year. He was a 2023 GACA and Atlanta Journal Constitution Class 3A All-State selection and the 2023 Region 7-3A Offensive Player of the Year.
Another top offensive player not returning is wideout Luke Evans, who led the team with 60 receptions and 809 yards. He was a 2023 First Team All-Region selection.
Offensive linemen Lane Mccolman and Trenton Brooksher will not return this season.
On the defensive side, standout linebackers Will Wood and Preston Cox and lineman Dakota Bennett have all graduated. They were all First Team All-Region selections last season.
Who’s Back
Quarterback Cal Faulkner was the 2023 Region 7-3A Player of the Year, and his return is a huge boost for the Indians offense. The Georgia Tech commit enjoyed a breakout season last year that placed him among the state’s top signal-callers. He threw for 1,706 yards and 17 TDs while completing 68% of passes; rushed for 954 yards and 17 TDs; and, as a defensive back, had three interceptions.
One of Faulkner’s top receivers from last year, Trent Mobley, is back.
On defense, sophomore defensive end Caleb Soles is a player to watch. He played well last year as a freshman, and he’ll continue to grow, adding to an already impressive 6-foot-2 frame.
Junior running back and defensive back Nolan Matthews is one of the team’s fastest players, as his 10.91-second 100-meter time as a member of the Lumpkin County track team proves. He’ll use that speed this fall once again in the offensive and defensive backfields.
Returning up front on the O-line is Jacob Garmany, while the defense welcomes back lineman Connor Greilich.
What to Expect
With Faulkner returning at QB for his senior season, Lumpkin County’s offense should be in good shape as the program’s transformation continues under head coach Heath Webb.
The key will be who can take over for the departed Sullens, who averaged 175 yards rushing per game and had 33 touchdowns in 2023.
That’s a lot of production to replace, but overall there’s enough returning talent to keep the Indians’ winning ways continuing under Webb.
Lumpkin County moves to Region 6 in Class 3A for 2024 and is joined by new region foes North Hall, Greater Atlanta Christian, Chestatee, and Johnson (Gainesville).
Prediction
10-3 overall record
Game to Watch
Sept. 27 at White County
