The Pelion football program is looking to improve in 2024 after posting consecutive three-win seasons.

The Panthers were able to improve in the region season last year after previously going winless in 2022. The team also qualified for the postseason last year after missing out in 2022.

Pelion faced a juggernaut Gray Collegiate team that made a run to the 2A state title game. This season, Pelion will hopefully make a deeper run with a team of new and returning pieces after losing some critical players off last year’s team.

Offense

The most notable departure from the offense is quarterback Lucas New. He started four seasons for the team and was a do-it-all playmaker. He was a passer, returner and even kicker during his time at Pelion.

Quarterback Alan Moore is a candidate to replace New. He took snaps for the Panthers in their preseason scrimmage against Airport.

Pelion returns a few key pieces and multi-year starters on the offensive line. Kaleb James looks to be one of the better linemen in the midlands after coming off a junior season in which he was selected to the All-State team. Also returning is Lane Brown, who is entering his fourth and final season as a starter.

Michael Cottrell adds experience to the running back room. He was a big part of last year’s run game with Carlos Rivera, who has since graduated.

Defense

Like the offense, Pelion’s defense will feature a few returning players with a handful of new ones.

The Panthers will look to replace much of its secondary from last season after losing key contributors Julian Tyler and Talan Gunter. Junior Hunter Rawl is an experienced safety who will be able to help get new guys up to speed.

Tucker Johnson will play on the defensive line and be an X-factor for that unit.

Schedule 

Week 0 - at Williston-Elko - Aug. 23

Week 1 - vs. Columbia - Aug. 30

Week 3 - vs. Swansea - Sept. 13

Week 4 - at Mid Carolina - Sept. 20

Week 5 - at Eau Claire - Sept. 27

Week 6 - at Ninety Six - Oct. 4

Week 7 - vs. Saluda - Oct. 10

Week 8 - vs. Strom Thurmond - Oct. 18

Week 9 - at Batesburg-Leesville - Oct. 25

Week 10 - vs. American Leadership Acad - Nov. 1