We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Ponte Vedra High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Sharks this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 8-4
- Points Scored: 380
- Points Allowed: 200
Key Losses
The Sharks will miss quarterback Ben Burk, who finished his senior season completing 131 of 222 pass attempts for 2,506 yards passing and 23 touchdowns last year. The dual-threat signal caller also rushed 121 times for 625 yards and a touchdown.
Tight end Landon Okla has moved to Nashville with family and will not return to the team this year, said head coach Steve Price.
Three-star linebacker Maddux Babin is not returning for 2024. He had 93 career tackles and two sacks as a key member of the Ponte Vedra defense.
The defense will also miss cornerback Joe Mahoney and safety Ridge Richardson.
Who’s Back
Returning to assume the quarterback duties this year is Drew Price, who did well in limited playing time last season, completing 7-of-13 passes for 127 yards and rushing 15 times for 126 yards with a touchdown.
The senior had a strong performance in Ponte Vedra’s spring game against Riverside, completing 9-of-12 passes for 102 yards and two touchdowns in just one half. He looks ready to take over for previous starter Burk.
Running back Brian Case is back for his senior season. He has enjoyed a productive past two seasons with 363 carries for 1,742 yards, including 1,165 rushing yards in 2023. Other key returners are tackle Brody McLeod, linebacker Talin Babin, and defensive end Robbie Grieco.
What to Expect
Coach Price said the Sharks will have several key players back from last season’s eight-win team.
“We have a good nucleus returning off last season’s regional semifinal squad,” he said.
Drew Price is poised to be one of the district’s top quarterbacks. That, along with the return of experienced running back Case, should set Ponte Vedra up for another solid season in 2024.
Coach Price said that lack of depth is a concern.
“We need more experience in the secondary,” he said “We need depth.”
Prediction
9-4 overall record
Game to Watch
Season-opener on Aug. 23 at Nease
