The 2024 Big Bend preps football season is nearly upon us.
As the new uniforms arrive and summer workouts slowly shift to fall practice, the feeling of football is slowly creeping its way back into the Tallahassee air. With school coming back into session soon, seniors are getting ready for a final year on the gridiron.
Kickoff Classic games are just over a month away, and as the seniors prepare for the first game of their final season, let’s take a look at some of the top impact seniors in the area.
Note: Stats from previous seasons are pulled from MaxPreps and college offers and commitments will be pulled from players social media or recruiting sites like 247Sports or On3.
Jalen Wiggins, Defensive end, Rickards
One of the top seniors in the country, Rickards defensive end Jalen Wiggins is set for an explosive senior campaign. Totaling 97 tackles last season, including 31 for a loss and forcing two fumbles, the dynamic Wiggins is a highlight-reel player who will be an influential figure for the Raiders in his senior season both on offense and defense. Lining up at tight end in certain scenarios, Wiggins has the speed and hands to make plays, but he thrives on defense by jolting around offensive linemen to get a sack or tackle. With Rickards looking to make a splash this year, Wiggins will be a big part of that.
Christian Sims, Quarterback, Lincoln
Arguably the top quarterback in the area, Lincoln’s Christian Sims is looking to take a big step in his senior season. After transferring to Lincoln last year, Sims has had a season with the playbook as he looks to lead the Trojans on another deep playoff run. Posting 1,508 passing yards, throwing 11 touchdowns and adding 78 carries for 419 rushing yards and four touchdowns, Sims has the potential to explode as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the state.
Charles Bosby, Linebacker, Leon
A top linebacker in the area last season, Leon’s Charles Bosby is a tackle machine that could light up the Big Bend this season. Holding down the middle of the field, Bosby showed the ability to disrupt offense last season for the Lions, posting 125 total tackles, seven for a loss, two sacks, one int and two fumble recoveries in his junior year. As he heads into his final year with the Lions program, Bosby could be a key contributor to the team under coach William Mosley.
Jason McDaniel, Running back/linebacker, Madison County
One of the most impressive athletes in the area, Jason McDaniel is a star on both sides of the football for Madison County. He was the top tackler on the team and the leading rusher, scoring the most touchdowns before an injury late in the season took him out of action before the playoffs. As the Cowboys look to make a run back to the state championship game this season, McDaniel is going to be a key part of that.
Jeremiah Thomas, Defensive back/ATH, Gadsden County
Transferring from Wakulla to Gadsden County, Jeremiah Thomas is a strong player on both sides of the football. A dynamic athlete who typically lines up as a running back offensively, the shifty Thomas has quick speed that allows him to make big plays. Recording 82 tackles and two interceptions at safety last season, the South Alabama commit is a playmaker on both sides of the field and will be a big-time player for the Jaguars.
Jayden Threatts, Running back, Florida High
Heading into his senior season, Florida High’s Jayden Threatts was a breakout star last year and is poised for a big final year in Southwood. Posting 121 carries, 924 yards and seven TDs, with most of that coming after he became the starter following an injury to Micahi Danzy, Threatts showed his potential and he could be relied on a lot with a young Florida High offense this season.
Caden Collier, Defensive back, St. John Paul II
The Panthers have a lot of veteran talent on its defense this season, and defensive back Caden Collier is one of the top talents for JPII. Coming off a stellar junior season, Collier posted 81 tackles, four interceptions and 10 PBU’s for the Panthers. He could be in for a strong senior campaign for a JPII program that could surprise some people in the area this season.
Demyric Bentley, Running back, Godby
A shifty powerful running back, Demyric Bentley is primed for a breakout campaign for a revamped Cougars program under head coach John Holston. Displaying his potential last season posting 426 rushing yards and four touchdowns for Godby. With the Cougars showing a lot of promise in the run game in the spring showcase, Bentley looks to be set for a breakout campaign.
Holton Harris, Saftey/linebacker, Chiles
A dynamic playmaker on defense for Chiles, Holton Harris is a versatile safety who can also come down the field and play linebacker. For a strong defense like the Timberwolves, Harris posted 59 tackles, three sacks, one interception and two PBUs last season. As Chiles looks to build on the momentum from last season’s 6-4 finish, Harris could be a big-time player for the program this season.
George Grant, Quarterback, Maclay
Poised for a star season under center for Maclay, George Grant is coming off a junior campaign that saw him post 2,458 passing yards and 22…
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