As we gear up for the 2023 high school football season in Charleston, attention is being drawn to some standout players set to make their mark. Today, we spotlight the Lowcountry’s impressive roster of running backs.
In recent times, football has gravitated towards pass-first tactics and multi-receiver schemes. However, a resurgence in the running game is paving the way for running backs to truly demonstrate their prowess. With this shift, the role of running backs has expanded, making their contribution as pass-catchers critical.
The Lowcountry boasts a number of exceptional running backs to watch out for this fall. Leading the pack is Fort Dorchester senior, Davian Brown. Already boasting over 3,300 career rushing yards, the fifth-year varsity starter shows no signs of slowing down. Despite concerns that a move to the state’s largest public-school division, Class AAAAA, might impact his performance, Brown instead thrived, amassing over 1,500 yards for the AAAAA Lower State champions.
Experienced Hanahan senior Kevon Rivera is another strong contender in the Lowcountry, having chalked up over 2,500 career rushing yards. Meanwhile, TJ Wright, who has more than 1,200 career rushing yards to his name, is expected to be a key asset for Woodland this season, following his transfer from Cane Bay.
Cane Bay is still poised for a strong performance, with Langston Rhodes and Brycen Johnson set to step up following Wright’s departure. Elsewhere, at Summerville, we’re keeping an eye on the dynamic duo of senior Trae Green and junior Ashton Allen-Hawkins, expected to invigorate the Green Wave run game.
Philip Simmons and James Island are also fielding formidable backfield pairs. Philip Simmons’ seniors, KJ Asbury and Sharod Williams, each topped 700 yards in 2022 and have their sights set on reaching 1,000 yards this season. Meanwhile, James Island’s Junior Maxwell and Amor Scott, who combined for over 1,400 yards and 20 touchdowns last season, will seek to replicate their success, backed by the energetic Braxton Scott at quarterback.
Goose Creek’s backfield will be spearheaded by sophomore Meliq McGowan, who made an impressive late-season debut in his freshman year. Another rising sophomore to keep an eye on is Ryan Campbell at Fort Dorchester, who managed over 400 rushing yards as a freshman.
Finally, West Ashley’s ground game will be spearheaded by senior Kevin Brown, with the experienced William Washington also returning to the field.
In summary, Charleston’s 2023 high school football scene promises a thrilling showcase of talented running backs, each ready to carve their own path on the field. The season can’t come soon enough!
