The Lexington Wildcats are gearing up for their 2024 season, which is set to begin Aug. 23 with a week zero home contest against Gilbert.

Lexington finished 7-4 last season and placed third overall in region play. The team was disappointed in the playoffs, losing in the first round after previously advancing to the second in each of the last two.

This will be the team’s second season under head coach Dustin Curtis. The team will look to compete in one of the toughest regions in football that features state champion Dutch Fork, runner-up White Knoll, former 4A state semifinalist Irmo, Chapin and River Bluff.

Offense

The Lexington offense will feature a mix of new and returning players. One notable absence from the team will be former quarterback Taiden Minesm. He was a three-year starter at Lexington and is now set to play for Lenoir-Rhyne in the upcoming college season.

Senior receiver Brandon Cromer is returning for his final year after winning a state championship with the baseball team in the spring. He will help make the adjustment for the team’s new quarterback easier with his experience.

The team lost receivers Garret Gallaher and Connor Holmes, who were seniors last season, and Zareth Owens, who transferred to White Knoll.

Running back duo Cam Morris and Toby Sobieralski are back in 2024 after sharing responsibilities last season. They will run behind a solid offensive line that features Matt Wilkie, one of the better linemen in the area.

Defense

Lexington’s starting defensive unit will look very different than it did last season.

Matthew McAulay is a name to watch from the linebacker spot. He is entering his senior season and will try and prove he is one of the best in the area. His experience should help the rest of the group come along.

Artem Kalinkin will lead the defensive line unit. He is an incredibly strong player and has a college offer already on the table.

Most of the team’s starters from last season were seniors, so it will be interesting to see who emerges as top contributors.

Schedule 

Week 0 - vs. Gilbert - Aug. 23

Week 1 - at North Augusta - Aug. 30

Week 2 - at Midland Valley - Sept. 6

Week 3 - vs. Greenwood - Sept. 13

Week 5 - at Laurens - Sept. 27

Week 6 - vs. Irmo - Oct. 4

Week 7 - at Chapin - Oct. 11

Week 8 - vs. Dutch Fork - Oct. 18

Week 9 - at White Knoll - Oct. 25

Week 10 - vs. River Bluff - Nov. 1