We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Mainland High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Buccaneers this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 14-1
- Points Scored: 517
- Points Allowed: 189
Key Losses
The Buccaneers lose several key players and the head coach who led them to the program’s first state title in 20 years, Travis Noland.
Noland is now the head football coach at Camden County High School in Kingsland, Georgia, but Mainland will be in good hands with new head man Jerrime “Squatty” Bell, who arrives from Atlantic.
The list of players who are moving on has some quality defenders on it, including defensive back Zavier Mincey, who is off to Alabama; linebacker Rodney Hill, who is now at the University of Central Florida; defensive lineman LJ McCray, who is now at the University of Florida; and defensive lineman Ramon Mccullough, who is now at Wofford.
Quarterback DJ Murray is off to Georgia State University, and offensive lineman Madden Santiago is headed to Harvard.
Who’s Back
Junior linebacker and athlete Dennis “Tank” King returns for his junior season, and the talented Buccaneer already has offers from several Division I schools, including Louisville and Florida.
Another big-time recruit returning is four-star defensive tackle Christian Hudson.
Senior defensive back Drayden Wood, whom Bell said led the team in interceptions in 2023, is back for his final year at Mainland.
Senior athlete Kwasie “Duece” Kwaku Jr. rushed for 1,184 yards with 15 touchdowns last season and was a big weapon in the Bucs’ state title run.
Bell said he looks forward to welcoming back wide receiver and linebacker Phillip Moore.
What to Expect
The Buccaneers are coming off back-to-back state title game appearances, winning it all last year over St. Augustine 21-19.
Bell is the new head coach, but he’s no stranger to Mainland.
“I was born and raised in the blue and gold,” Bell said. “I played varsity here for three years and was a captain of the football team my senior season.”
He also understands that former head coach Travis Roland has raised the bar pretty high.
“I know I have some big shoes to fill,” Bell said. “Coach Roland is my little cousin, but around the coaching profession he has become the young superstar.”
Bell is excited to be back where it all began for him.
“Taking over at Mainland is a dream come true,” he said.
There is enough talent returning to give Bell an opportunity to take Mainland to another championship.
Prediction
Last year I predicted Mainland to make it to the state championship game. Will I dare do it again?
Yes. Mainland will win a second straight championship in 2024, finishing 12-3.
Game to Watch
Sept. 20 at Coffee (Georgia)
