Toombs County Bulldogs: - Reloaded and Ready to Roar for Another Title Run
Toombs County Bulldogs:
LYONS, GA – The echoes of a historic 2024 season still reverberate through Lyons, Georgia, where the Toombs County High School Bulldogs etched their name into the annals of state football history with a commanding 13-1 record and a coveted GHSA Class A Division 1 State Championship. As the sweltering Georgia summer gives way to the crisp air of autumn, a familiar buzz envelops 'The Pit' once more. While some key pieces from that championship squad have moved on to the collegiate ranks, Head Coach Buddy Martin and his Bulldogs are far from resting on their laurels, setting their sights firmly on another deep playoff run and, dare we say, a repeat performance.
'It was a phenomenal season, phenomenal group of kids,' Head Coach Buddy Martin reflected, a hint of pride in his voice. 'We thought we had a chance to be there, and we just tried to leave no stone unturned.' Martin recalled the challenging moments of last season, including navigating a hurricane and suffering their sole loss at Savannah Christian. 'We thought one of two things. This could be a lesson learned, or we could be mad that we didn’t get that Region Championship. Our guys handled it really well and the rest is history.'
The 'rest is history' indeed, culminating in a state title that sent shockwaves of joy throughout the Toombs County community. The ripple effect of that success has been evident, with several Bulldogs earning college offers in the offseason. Yet, Martin emphasizes that complacency is the enemy of progress. 'Coming into the offseason there was still a lot of buzz. We have several kids that picked up college offers after that. We are bringing back a lot of talent, but we just kept the kids in line. Not looking ahead, not focusing on the talk, just seeing where our feet are planted, and taking things day by day. Let’s continue to get better, right here, right now, in this moment.'
It's a human tendency, Martin acknowledges, to take your foot off the gas after such a monumental accomplishment, especially with accolades pouring in. However, the Bulldogs savored their triumph briefly before diving back into the grind. A summer filled with camps and rigorous weight room sessions has fueled their excitement and readiness for the impending season.
Of course, a championship team inevitably faces the challenge of replacing departed talent. The Bulldogs bid farewell to impact players like quarterback TJ Stanley (now at Georgia State), electric playmaker Lagonza Hayward (Florida), and versatile Mike Polk (Mercer). Filling these 'pretty big shoes' will be a collective effort, but the sheer numbers on this year's roster, with 80 players, provide a strong foundation for depth and competition. continued from page
Coaching Continuity: A Pillar of Stability
A significant factor in Toombs County's continued success is the stability of its coaching staff. Head Coach Buddy Martin enters his third year at the helm, surrounded by a familiar and highly capable group. Jared Hamlin returns as Offensive Coordinator, once again tasked with orchestrating the Bulldogs' high-powered attack. On the defensive side, Jeff Smothers is back as Defensive Coordinator, ready to unleash another potent unit.
The experienced staff also includes Rigg Ferrell coaching receivers, Ken Dixon handling the running backs, Wesley Bratton overseeing inside linebackers, Nick Hayes guiding outside linebackers, and Cornelious Bullard leading the defensive line. The Bulldogs have also bolstered their ranks with the additions of JD Carter from West Laurens and the return of Isaac Ferrell to the coaching staff. David Howell joins as Football Operations Manager, also lending his expertise to the defensive side. While losing Logan Daves and Rig Tinoco is a blow, the core of the championship staff remains intact, providing invaluable continuity.
Offensive Outlook: New Signal-Caller, Familiar Firepower The most significant question mark on offense is at quarterback, where Joseph Owens is poised to take the reins. Owens, aware of the high standard set by his predecessor, has enjoyed a stellar summer and appears to have seized the starting role after a competitive battle. Hayden Roy has also impressed and will likely see action in specific packages, with other young signal-callers developing in the wings.
However, the running back stable remains overflowing with talent. Senior Justin Powell, a powerful back who is difficult to bring down, teams up with junior Alex Scott, an explosive playmaker, and junior Don Mincey, a speedster capable of breaking big plays. This formidable trio will shoulder much of the rushing load, but don't sleep on sophomore Zay Walton, whom Coach Martin believes is a 'special player' poised to make an immediate impact. Several other backs will also contribute. At receiver, Gavin Fletcher is expected to be the primary target, showcasing his exceptional ball skills and posing a significant threat to opposing secondaries. Justice Wilds' hard work has earned him a prominent role, while the athletic Nick Carroll will be a tough matchup for defenses. Brandon Stevens' strong offseason has secured his place on the field, and the hard-hitting Slade McDonald will provide another dimension from the slot.
The offensive line, the engine of any successful offense, will be anchored by JJ Pacheco at center, with Jayce Corbitt also seeing time there. Returning starters RJ Langston (right guard) and Brody Benton (right tackle) provide veteran leadership on the right side. On the left, Ar’xavier Taylor's three years of dedicated work are set to pay off with a starting opportunity, while the physically imposing Brandon Lewis, with his excellent footwork, will hold down left tackle. The depth on the line is encouraging, with several other players vying for reps and playing time. Defensive Dominance: A Blend of Size, Speed, and Leadership The Bulldogs' defensive front promises to be a force to be reckoned with, boasting an impressive combination of size and speed. Zaylen Davis returns at defensive end, while the imposing Jamarcus Johnson, standing at 6’5” and 305 lbs., will be a monster in the middle at nose guard. Nick Frasier, at 6’4” and 245 lbs., completes the formidable defensive end tandem. Senior Da’Tavious Jordan's hard work has earned him a spot on the line, and Hayden Bullard, an All-State defensive end last season, is returning from injury and may see time at linebacker, adding another layer of versatility.
The linebacker corps is equally stacked. MJ Burton, an All-Region performer last year, will make a significant impact upon his return from injury. Hayden Roy, an All-State honoree last season, shifts to inside linebacker and is expected to be a key leader for the defense. Ar’xavier Taylor will also be back at inside backer, alongside the impactful Kareem Palmer. On the outside, Slade McDonald returns as a very physical backer, while Justin Powell, who joined the team late last season, is now finding his rhythm in the system and will be a big addition. Kyrell Williams will also see time at the position.
The secondary, while needing to replace college- bound talents like Hayward and Polk, is not short on potential. Don Mincey, Deon Moore, and Nick Carroll will all play crucial roles at cornerback. Ethan Harrison, a senior, has made significant strides over the summer, as has fellow senior Lashone Walker-Harris, both of whom are expected to do big things. Gavin Fletcher will also be utilized more on defense this season, bringing his exceptional coverage skills to the secondary and stepping up in a key twoway role. continued from page
At safety, Alex Scott, with multiple college offers, is anticipated to be a central figure in the defense. Deon Moore makes the move from cornerback to free safety, and Brandon Stevens will also see time at safety. The versatility of the secondary means players will be moved around to optimize matchups and situations.
Coach Martin's enthusiasm for his squad is palpable, particularly regarding their impressive numbers and locker room chemistry. ' We have depth in every class, from freshman to seniors,' he emphasized. 'It is a great thing to have so many players, but the coaches are continuing to work hard to develop all of them and to create relationships with them as well. As always, they are focusing on creating great players and great young men.' Martin credits his own playing and coaching career for instilling the importance of player relationships, a philosophy he carries with him while also pushing his team hard in the pursuit of excellence.
Special Teams
The special teams unit also boasts returning talent. Alex Otero is back as the place kicker, with a strong leg that has shown improved accuracy over the summer. An incoming freshman could also compete for kicking duties. Justin Powell and Gavin Fletcher will handle and punt return duties. Long snapping responsibilities will be shared by Justice Wilds, Hayden Roy, and Dax Nobles.
Community Support
Perhaps what truly sets the Toombs County program apart is the unwavering support of its community. Coach Martin beams when discussing it: 'When I talk to other coaches, they always ask, ‘Is this how your community always shows up?’ We know the answer is yes! Just knowing how good we have it here is special. The way they show up in The Pit every home game, the things they do for the kids, they are always there for us. These kids feed off it. There are articles put out every year about the best game day environments, and the hardest places to play in Georgia, and Toombs County is always near the top of those lists. It is because of this community and how they support us and these great kids.”
The support extends beyond the stands, 'We also have to look to the support we get from our school system,' Martin added, 'From the top with Barry Waller at Superintendent, the School Board, Marissa Morris at Principal, and all the teachers and staff here at Toombs; they are all top notch.”
A Challenging Road Ahead Despite their championship pedigree, the Bulldogs will face another gauntlet of a Region schedule. Savannah Christian, their lone conqueror last season, has reloaded and will undoubtedly be a formidable opponent. The classic rivalry with Vidalia, just seven miles down the road, promises another electrifying contest. 'What a blessing it is to live in a community that has these two schools just seven miles apart and who both have such great support battle it out as a rivalry every year. What a game it is,' Martin remarked. Swainsboro is expected to be one of the most improved teams, and Savannah Country Day, with a new quarterback, could also surprise.
The nonregion slate presents its own set of challenges, highlighted by a trip back to Rome. Last season's victory over the Wolves put Toombs County on the map, but this time around, Rome won't be looking past the Bulldogs, setting the stage for a potentially even tougher battle.
As the Toombs County Bulldogs prepare to embark on their 2025 campaign, the goal is clear: to build upon the foundation of last year's historic success. With a strong core of returning talent, a dedicated coaching staff, an abundance of depth, and the unparalleled support of their community, the Bulldogs are poised to once again be a dominant force. The path to a repeat championship will be arduous, but the Bulldogs are ready to roar.
